Dominik Malara
Faculty of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Kielce University of Technology

Published: April 1, 2026

Abstract
The development of modern manufacturing technologies requires the adaptation of measurement methods, which generates the problem of developing a new measurement strategy and an in-depth analysis of known measurement methods. The paper presents the results of an investigation into the measurement of the surface topography of models manufactured by Material Extrusion Technology (MEX). The measurement was carried out using three optical methods: – confocal, the interferometric, focus variation. The curved surface was analysed in its central part and in the rounded area, both concave and convex. The results showed significant differences in both measurement reliability and measurement errors. The results of the research showed that interferometry was the least effective method, characterised by the highest number of non-measured points regardless of the measurement location and sample shape. In contrast, the focus variation method showed the highest number of noise – spikes/ghost points located mainly at the edges of the measured area, which has a direct impact on the calculated value of the surface parameters. On average, the differences in the number of non-measured points for interferometric measurements were roughly four and a half times greater th

Keywords
surface metrology; 3D printing; MEX; non-measured points

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66176/mandme0001

Mateusz Rudnik
Faculty of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Kielce University of Technology

Published: April 1, 2026

Abstract
This study investigated selected mechanical properties of Sierpiński-based structures subjected to static compression loading. Four geometric iterations (1IT – 4IT) were designed
and manufactured using the MEX (Material Extrusion) process with a FlSun V400 3D printer and PLA+ material, and tested in three printing orientations (0°, 45°, and 90°). The experimental results were presented using column charts, enabling direct comparison of the effects of geometric iteration
and printing orientation on the mechanical response of the specimens. The analysis demonstrated that geometric iteration was the dominant factor governing mechanical behavior. Fully solid specimens (1IT) exhibited the highest load – carrying capacity and energy absorption, reaching a maximum compressive force of approximately 35.1 kN and work values of up to about 868 J. The introduction of internal voids in porous configurations (2IT – 4IT) led to a substantial reduction in maximum force, displacement
at peak load, and absorbed energy, regardless of printing orientation. The influence of printing orientation was pronounced for solid specimens but decreased with increasing porosity, indicating that geometry – driven reduction of the effective load – displacement cross – section dominated over manufacturing-induced anisotropy. Specimen mass and volume decreased systematically
with successive iterations and remained largely independent of printing orientation. The results confirm the potential of Sierpiński – based fractal geometries for lightweight structural components under compressive loading.

Keywords
Sierpiński Triangle; Mechanical Properties; Fractal Structures; Numerical Analysis; Structural Lightness.

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66176/mandme0002