Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed a new 3D printing technology called CHARM3D that allows the creation of three-dimensional conductive metal structures that do not require support structures or other fixtures.
The new technology enables the fabrication of complex 3D circuits of any shape. To overcome the limitations of using conductive inks, the researchers chose Field's metal, which has a low melting point, hardens quickly and has high electrical conductivity.
The CHARM3D printer uses the voltage between the molten metal and an already printed part of the structure to print hair-thick microwires. The researchers have demonstrated the possibility of creating circuits for a wearable temperature sensor and a wireless antenna for monitoring vital signs. The printing speed is up to 100 mm per second. Using the CHARM3D method, the researchers have printed circuitry for a wearable temperature sensor and an antenna for wireless vital signs monitoring. They believe the technology will be useful not only in healthcare, but also in many other fields such as sensing and signal processing.
The researchers are currently exploring other types of metals that can enhance the CHARM3D technology and expand its applications. The technology can produce complex three-dimensional structures of any shape, providing new opportunities for the development of wearable electronic devices. This can be particularly useful when a circuit needs to fit into a limited space.
CHARM3D provides high conductivity and lacks the constraints of a 2D printed circuit board. Using 3D printing to create conductive metal structures opens up new perspectives for the development of innovative devices. Such technology could have many applications in industries ranging from electronics to medicine, and will even revolutionize the production of wearable devices. Thus, this study opens new horizons for 3D printing and holds great potential for the future.
The CHARM3D printer uses the voltage between the molten metal and an already printed part of the structure to print hair-thick microwires. The researchers have demonstrated the possibility of creating circuits for a wearable temperature sensor and a wireless antenna for monitoring vital signs. The printing speed is up to 100 mm per second. Using the CHARM3D method, the researchers have printed circuitry for a wearable temperature sensor and an antenna for wireless vital signs monitoring. They believe the technology will be useful not only in healthcare, but also in many other fields such as sensing and signal processing.
The researchers are currently exploring other types of metals that can enhance the CHARM3D technology and expand its applications. The technology can produce complex three-dimensional structures of any shape, providing new opportunities for the development of wearable electronic devices. This can be particularly useful when a circuit needs to fit into a limited space.
CHARM3D provides high conductivity and lacks the constraints of a 2D printed circuit board. Using 3D printing to create conductive metal structures opens up new perspectives for the development of innovative devices. Such technology could have many applications in industries ranging from electronics to medicine, and will even revolutionize the production of wearable devices. Thus, this study opens new horizons for 3D printing and holds great potential for the future.