Microdispensing device manufacturer nScrypt has achieved 6-axis 3D printing with its new 3Dn-Axis Factory in a Tool (FiT) 3D printer.
Based on the previously released 3Dx-700, the multi-headed 3Dn axis comes with nScrypt’s full range of specialized toolheads. These include the SmartPump microdispensing tool, the nFD material extrusion tool, the nMill milling and polishing tool, and the nPnP360 placement tool. Therefore, the comprehensive 3D printer is well suited for the production of complex functional devices with potential applications in integrated electronics, sensor and radio frequency communication devices.
Ken Church, CEO of nScrypt, explains: “We are finding that printing in XYZ alone is not meeting customer requirements. Instead of 3D printed parts, they want to manufacture finished products precisely digitally in real 3D, e.g. B. through the integration of circuits and electronic components such as sensors, in helmets and other wearables or in projectiles, drones or medical devices. “
The new 3Dn axis is based on the previously released 3Dx-700. Photo via nScrypt.
Microdispensing with nScrypt
The extensive Factory in a Tool 3D printers from nScrypt include the 3Dn series, the 3Dn DDM series and the nRugged system. Each of the machines are compatible with the company’s entire tool head suite, making them well suited for 3D printing electronic devices.
With the tool change system from nScrypt, the FiT 3D printers can switch seamlessly between the individual tool heads. In this way, the nFD tool can be used to 3D print the polymer housing of an electronic device. With the SmartPump, the conductive traces can be distributed in silver ink. The individual components can be assembled with the assembly tool. and the milling tool can provide users with high quality surface finish. The new 3Dn axis now enables this in 6 axes.
The system’s tool changer can be used to switch between the various tool heads. GIF via nScrypt.
6-axis 3D printing on the 3Dn-axis
6-axis 3D printing gives users a new level of geometric control when designing parts. In addition to the standard linear XYZ planes, the new FiT system from nScrypt has three additional axes of rotational movement. The RS axis is used to rotate the tool head, the RT axis tilts the tool head and the RR axis rotates the print bed.
The additional axes ultimately enable compliant output functions, similar to a non-planar FFF 3D printer. nScrypt has already demonstrated the system’s printing capabilities using a series of test prints, which are listed below. The picture on the left shows a 3D printed polymer part with a secondary STL file wrapped around it. Similarly, the image to the right shows a 3D printed thermoplastic base with a DXF file wrapped around it instructing the printer to dispense a conductive silver ink pattern into the curved surface.
Church adds, “Our one-tool 3Dn-axis factory solves two problems: the ability to make complete products, such as working electronic devices, in 3D, and the ability to do so in real 3D, and complex shapes with integrated electronics and fine surface finishes to manufacture. With our new FiT, our customers can move beyond XYZ 3D printing to real 3D manufacturing. “
Test parts 3D printed with the 3Dn axis. Photos via nScrypt.
Earlier this year, nScrypt used its FiT 3D printing technology to make engine parts for the latest dragster from automotive research and development company Larsen Motorsports. With the help of the nRugged system, Larsen was able to replace the outdated seals on the fuel pumps of his new Generation 6 jet-powered car with more durable seals.
Elsewhere, the nRugged was also previously demonstrated to Secretary of the Army, Ryan D. McCarthy, as a potential production tool for the U.S. Army. As the name suggests, the system is designed for 3D printing in harsh environments and offers great potential for on-site manufacturing of electronic devices or bioactive dressings.
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The picture shown shows the 3Dx-700. Photo via nScrypt.
