Laser driven Metal droplets as enabler for multi-material 4D-printing (LAM-4D)
Reference number | |
Coordinator | Luleå tekniska universitet - Avdelningen för Produkt och produktionsutveckling |
Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
Project duration | November 2018 - November 2019 |
Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The goals of the project is to create a new method for additive manufacturing in metals, where a laser shoots metal droplets, placed so that voxel-like structures can be built. This contact-free method allows for rapid exchange of feeding materials, enabling multi-material structures. Sketches for possible multi-material feeding has been partly developed. The goals for the project has only been partly reached, but much new knowledge has been generated. Challenges lie in to repeatedly create equal droplets and positioning them on the surface.
Expected results and effects
To use a sufficiently high laser power source and special high speed imaging technique proved necessary to develop this method. Over 200 experiments has been made by various methods and the technique has partially been developed. A working process for laser driven metal droplets is a pre-requisite, whereby also the other goals of the project has only partially been reached and evaluated. The decisions for project implementation has been fair and has led to generation of new knowledge of laser-metal interactions. Improved control systems is a recommendation for future studies.
Planned approach and implementation
Using a sufficiently strong laser source and special high-speed imaging technology proved necessary to develop this method. Over 200 experiments have been carried out with different approaches and the method has been gradually developed. A working process for laser-driven metal drops is a prerequisite, therefore the other goals of the project have only been partially achieved and appreciated. Implementation decisions have been justified and have led to new knowledge of laser-metal interactions being created. Improved control systems for further studies are recommended.