Pressure monitoring inside the nozzle of a fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printer

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is the most used additive manufacturing technique that uses a heated nozzle to melt a polymer and a feeder to extrude it on a buildplate. The dependencies of temperature, shear-rate, viscosity and pressure of the melt create complex dynamics within the nozzle, which causes inconsistent extrusion. To improve...

3D Technology in Manufacturing Pressure Masks for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scarring following Oncological Facial Reconstruction

Introduction<br/>Transparent facial pressure masks with silicone sheeting are used as a non-invasive treatment option for hypertrophic scarring following oncological facial reconstruction. These masks are fabricated using conventional plaster moulds, which is labour-intensive and requires an experienced orthotist or prosthetist. 3D scanning and...

Design and field testing of a fiber optic pressure sensor for underground water level monitoring

We present the design and field test of a rugged FBG sensor prototype for high-sensitivity measurement of underground water level. Pressure sensors have many fields of application, ranging from environmental monitoring to the oil and gas industry. In particular, pressure sensors can be used to monitor the stability of dikes and embankments by...