Development of a drop-on-demand micro dispensing system

Abstract

This paper presents the development a drop-on-demand micro-dispensing system on which functional devices can be directly printed in a layer-by-layer manner that is commonly used in Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing processes. The principle is to form micro droplets on substrate that requires accuracy and consistency with the ability to build 3D model. It requires heating of material to a desired temperature and viscosity which allows the piezoelectric the ability to pump out. In order to build a 3D model, a basic XYZ-axis gantry, motion controller and dispenser with temperature controller were developed and integrated. Experiments with different materials were carried out to understand the influences of the dispensing parameters on continuous frequency output. The results hold attractive potential for the use of this system in fabricating 3D models which meet the accuracy and resolution needs for various industry applications.