Introduction I have a need to develop rigid and flexible mechanical components for the ABSS project using 3D-printed masters. After some research, I found that a common method used by artists for sculpting involves creating moulds using silicone for subsequent casting. Silicone is suitable for this purpose because it has different flexibility grades and is […]
Silicone Mould-Making Tests Read More »
I’ve been thinking about pressure sensing for the ABSS project, and I’ve been considering using force sensing resistors (FSRs). These specialized thin-film polymer sensors are great for measuring compressive forces and can be used with a flexible substrate with some care. However, there are some problems with this approach. Firstly, there aren’t many manufacturers to
DIY Piezoresistive pressure sensors Read More »
To pour silicone moulds, you need a container that can be deconstructed and reused later. An adjustable casting box I came across on YouTube seems like a neat solution. It utilizes four L-shaped side pieces clamped together to create the exact size mould required for your pattern. Having the right size mould is very useful
Adjustable Casting Box Read More »
If I use resin printing to make moulds or patterns for the ABSS project that are the size of a large adult shoe sole, then the typical off-the-shelf consumer-grade resin curing boxes will not be suitable. They are far too small. Fortunately, I spent an afternoon with a knowledgeable local 3D printing expert, and it
DIY High Power UV Resin Curer Read More »
The ABSS project requires me to modify or recreate a shoe sole and attach it to a real adult-sized shoe upper. To support these aims, I purchased a pair of UK size 2 children’s running shoes. Then, I disassembled them to understand how they were made and the materials used in their construction. Modelling shoes
Limited information is available to the public regarding the manufacturing process of airbags. Each manufacturer keeps these details confidential. However, by disassembling airbags, we can obtain some information about their construction. The main challenge is determining the materials used in making them, the specifications of a smaller airbag, and how to use available materials to
Constructing the Airbag Read More »
This sewing machine is quite old, probably around fifty years old. It is made of steel and has all-metal internals, making it perfect for handling tougher nylon materials I need to sew. I purchased it from someone who previously used it to make boat sails, specifically for the ABSS project. After changing the oil and
Brother DB2-755 Sewing Machine Read More »
I needed to study some existing designs to create a miniature airbag for the ABSS project. There are several types of airbag systems on the market that I could explore. Automotive airbags have been available for a long time, so I started by looking at the most mature option. Coincidentally, car airbags are readily available
Automotive Airbag Teardowns Read More »
