Direct Ink Writing on a Rotating Mandrel—Additive Lathe Micro-Manufacturing

Abstract

Among the promising techniques within additive manufacturing (AM), direct ink writing (DIW) stands out for its ability to work with a wide range of materials, including polymers, ceramics, glass, metals, and cement. However, DIW encounters a significant challenge in creating complex tubular structures, such as vascular scaffolds with microscale features. To address this challenge, our research investigates a novel method known as additive lathe direct ink writing (AL-DIW). AL-DIW entails the precise dispensing of ink onto a rotating mandrel to fabricate intricate hollow tubular structures with overhanging geometries. In this research, we present a series of test cases involving tubular structures, comprising straight-line patterns, curved line designs, and complex stent configurations, to underscore the efficacy of this technique in crafting hollow tubular geometries with microscale features. This study not only highlights the capabilities of AL-DIW but also contributes to the broader advancement of additive manufacturing techniques for various applications.