Revolutionizing Printed Electronics with Cutting-Edge 3D Printers
In this article+talk, electrical 3D printing's technical aspects are covered, covering resin printing, circuit formation, part mounting, materials, and methods. Learn about low-temperature soldering, embedded components, and the impact on rapid prototyping and unique device manufacturing.
06 Apr, 2023. 2 min read
Introduction: Electrical 3D printing has been revolutionizing the printed electronics industry, offering rapid prototyping and the ability to manufacture unique, complex devices. In this blog post, we dive into the exciting world of electrical 3D printers, exploring their capabilities, applications, and the innovative processes that make them stand out from the crowd.
The video above is the talk given by Fuji Corporation at the TechBlick event in 2022. The points below are summaries based on this talk and the entire talk can be viewed above.
TechBlick's next conference will take place on 17-18 OCT 2023 in Berlin. Join us to learn about all aspects of additive electronics. The latest advances of this technology will be showcased. Learn more here
All-in-One Machine for Printed Electronics:
One of the most intriguing advancements in the field is the development of an all-in-one machine that can perform multiple functions, such as resin printing, circuit formation, and part mounting. This integration enables the creation of printed circuit boards (PCBs) within a single day using a full additive process. Furthermore, the machine can import design data directly and provide optimized process conditions for customers.
Rapid Prototyping and Unique Device Manufacturing:
Electrical 3D printers have two main applications: rapid prototyping and manufacturing unique, complex devices. With rapid prototyping, engineers can design and produce IoT devices, microcomputers, Bluetooth modules, battery regulators, and sensors in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. For unique device manufacturing, the printers can create intricate, multidimensional structures for innovative products, such as heartbeat sensors or other wearable technologies.
Innovative Materials and Processes:
Collaboration with chemical suppliers has led to the development of unique materials, such as UV resins with high durability under high-temperature conditions, and low-temperature sintering silver nanoparticle inks. These materials enable 3D printers to create circuits with fine tolerances, smooth surfaces, and optimal electrical properties.
Low-Temperature Soldering Process:
One challenge faced by printed electronics is the high-temperature soldering process traditionally used in PCB assembly. However, new developments in conductive paste and low-modulus materials have enabled a unique, low-temperature soldering process at around 80 degrees Celsius. This approach minimizes thermal stress on components and creates stable electrical connections.
Embedded Components and Parts Encapsulation:
The integration of multiple processes within a single machine opens up possibilities for embedded components and parts encapsulation. By creating additional layers of resin and circuits over mounted components, electrical 3D printers can achieve a uniform surface suitable for further part mounting or advanced device structures.
Conclusion:
The advancements in electrical 3D printing technology are poised to transform the electronics industry, providing rapid prototyping and manufacturing capabilities for complex devices. These innovations have the potential to minimize waste, reduce transportation energy, accelerate innovation, and contribute to greater engineering equality worldwide. As more companies invest in this technology, we can expect to see continued growth and innovation in the field of printed electronics.