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This content will become publicly available on May 1, 2026

Title: Characterization of the Coating Layers Deposited onto Curved Surfaces Using a Novel Multi-Nozzle Extrusion Printer
Over the past two decades, additive manufacturing has advanced significantly, enabling rapid fabrication of functional components across various applications. In medical devices, it has been used for prototyping, prosthetics, drug delivery platforms, and more recently, tissue scaffolding. However, current technologies face challenges, particularly in depositing conformal layers over curved surfaces. This study introduces a novel multi-nozzle extrusion printer concept designed to deposit soft gel layers onto curved surfaces. A custom clearance locking mechanism enhances the printer’s ability to achieve conformal coatings on both flat and curved substrates. We investigate key deposition parameters, including displacement volume and nozzle configuration, while comparing two deposition sequences: “Press and Express” and “Express and Press”. Our results demonstrate that the “Express and Press” technique yields more uniform, merged conformal layers than the “Press and Express” method. This technology holds promise for further refinement and potential applications in tissue engineering.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2109959
PAR ID:
10632838
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ;
Publisher / Repository:
MDPI AG
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Micromachines
Volume:
16
Issue:
5
ISSN:
2072-666X
Page Range / eLocation ID:
505
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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