Manufacturing

Material Selection was a important, as we required a something that would be able to withstand the forces the device yet not harm the infant during the process of mucus clearing, we began researching different materials we deemed would be suitable, we selected PLA for the construction material of our device. The reasoning behind this decision was it allowed us to 3D print our components and the material's strength and light-weight and material cost.

PLA stands for Polylactic acid (PLA) is a type of plastic that is used in building models and prototypes of solid objects and components. It is a thermoplastic polyester that serves as the raw material in 3-D printing or additive manufacturing processes and applications. PLA melts more easily because it has a lower melting point than many fossil-based plastics. It’s easy to work with PLA and it requires less energy to transform. One of the two most used plastics in 3D printing (45% market share). It has a low melting point, inexpensive, easy-to print, no fumes.

Property Value

Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) 126 °F (52 °C)

Density 1.24 g/cm³

Tensile Strength 50 MPa

Flexural Strength 80 MPa

Impact Strength (Un­notched) IZOD (J/m) 96.1

Shrink Rate 0.37-0.41% (0.0037-0.0041 in/in)