Convergence of Machine Vision and Melt Electrowriting

Melt electrowriting (MEW) is a high-resolution additive manufacturing technology that balances multiple parametric variables to arrive at stable fabrication process. The better understanding of this balance underscored here using camera vision jet stability profiles in different electrical fields. Complementing visual information are fiber-diameter measurements obtained precise points, allowing the correlation electrified properties. Two process signatures—the angle and for first time, Taylor cone area—are monitored analyzed with machine system, while SEM imaging diameter measurement correlates real-time information. This information, turn, allows detection correction fiber pulsing accurate placement on collector, in-process assessment diameter. Improved control used successfully fabricate collapsible MEW tubes; structures require exceptional accuracy printing stability. Using winding 60° 300 layers, resulting 12 mm-thick tubular have elastic snap-through instabilities associated mechanical metamaterials. study provides detailed analysis occurrence highlights importance monitoring volume understand, control, predict instabilities.