Original: https://doi.org/10.1088/2631-7990/ae098e
Micro- and nano-devices (MNDs) are very small, precise, and can perform multiple functions, which makes them ideal for applications like microrobots, biomedical devices, and electronic sensors. Making these devices requires extremely precise control over their structure, materials, and functions.
Traditional manufacturing methods struggle to build complex 3D structures or integrate multiple materials. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) offers more flexibility, but it still has challenges in controlling material alignment, microstructure, and functional integration.
Field-assisted additive manufacturing (FAM) is a new method that uses magnetic, electric, or acoustic fields to better control how materials are arranged and structured during printing. This improves precision, enhances material properties, and allows better integration of different functions.
This review explains how FAM works, its fabrication processes, and how it is applied in microrobotics, biomedical devices, and sensors. It also compares different FAM methods, their applications, and advantages. Finally, it discusses current challenges and future directions, such as improving spatial control, intelligent process management, and combining multiple fields for optimization.
Overall, this review provides a clear framework for researchers to develop FAM for making high-performance micro- and nano-devices.