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Thesis

A hybrid additive manufacturing framework for the multi-phase fabrication and in-line characterization of functional devices

Abstract:

Multi-material, multi-technology (MMMT) manufacturing systems combine or hybridize the benefits of individual fabrication and characterization techniques into a single manufacturing platform. In particular MMMT systems based on additive manufacturing (AM) technologies offer new opportunities for increased design freedom and additional functionality. However, the realization of the potential of AM-based MMMT systems is held back by the lack of accessible, affordable and reconfigurable hybrid-AM systems.

In this thesis, a novel, extendable hybrid-AM framework/concept is introduced. A corresponding, modular machine has been designed and built from the bottom-up. Detailed insights into the design considerations, operating principles, associated digital workflows and potential applications are discussed. The machine provided design freedom and in-line functionality previously unachievable. These aspects are then demonstrated through the: (1) AM of functional, form-factor free energy storage devices (supercapacitors, EDLC’s) in a single, automated multi-material operation; and (2) measurement of a material property distribution (the local dielectric permittivity (εr) in 3D) within printed parts as they are being formed. Careful consideration was given to the underlying materials- and AM processing-science. The supercapacitor behaviour was assessed through a range of electro-chemical and other characterization techniques, and provided encouraging energy storage behaviour. A ring-shaped supercapacitor was fabricated in a single manufacturing operation, unachievable by conventional manufacturing. Non-destructive, in-line permittivity data was reconstructed into three dimensional (3D) dielectric “images” of a printed object, and techniques to understand and improve the spatial resolution are presented.

The research aimed to accelerate the integration of functional devices in product manufacture (in particular for applications with irregular volume/shape and mass-customization requirements), accelerate the design-make-test cycle for functional devices through insight in device conformance to intended design (in-line quality control), and provide a versatile hybrid-AM environment for further research.

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Institution:
University of Oxford
Division:
MPLS
Department:
Physics
Sub department:
Particle Physics
Oxford college:
Corpus Christi College
Role:
Author

Contributors

Institution:
University of Oxford
Division:
MPLS
Department:
Materials
Sub department:
Materials
Role:
Supervisor
Institution:
The University of Sheffield
Role:
Examiner
Institution:
University of Oxford
Division:
MPLS
Department:
Engineering Science
Sub department:
Engineering Science
Role:
Examiner


More from this funder
Funder identifier:
http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100000266
Grant:
EP/P005578/1
EP/006566/1
EP/ M009521/1
EP/N509711/1
EP/S001239/1
EP/P005411/1


DOI:
Type of award:
DPhil
Level of award:
Doctoral
Awarding institution:
University of Oxford

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