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Download fileConductive microfluidic interconnects to enable scalable 3D manufacturing of wearable electronics
conference contribution
posted on 2016-06-09, 10:20 authored by Jonny Flowers, Changqing LiuChangqing Liu, Sean MitchellSean Mitchell, Andy HarlandAndy Harland, Dale EsligerDale EsligerThis paper investigates the geometry and surface
finish of channels machined into polydimethylsiloxane using a
continuous wave CO2 laser. In order to investigate the various
mechanisms, that could affect the channel geometry, both the
laser power and trace speed were varied in conjunction with
the use of a fixed focal size to allow comparison between
configurations. It was discovered that as the power level
increases, repeatability decreases while dimensional variability
of the channel along its length and multiple iterations
increases. It was found that the power output of the laser has a
greater effect on the dimensions of the channels than the total
energy input into the material. Varying configurations were
used when creating these channels resulting in a strong
correlation between both power and speed with regard to
depth. However, at higher energy levels this relationship
appears to break down and the depth of the cut reduces when
compared to similar laser configurations at a lower power
level.
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