Development of a Pain Measurement Device Using 3D Printing and Electronic Air Pressure Control

This article describes the design of a wireless pain monitor system, also known as a pain meter, which can be used to diagnose people with fibromyalgia. Background/Objectives: As the test should be done while a simultaneous Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan is being performed on the patient to observe their brain activity, the device must not have metallic components. Methods: Solid modelling and additive manufacturing were used for the manufacture of the device, an electropneumatic control has also been defined, and several prototypes were manufactured and tested. The work focuses on the validation of the designed pain meter, built by Material Extrusion (MEX) technology in different materials and with different printers. The surface finishes and manufacturing tolerances of the critical parts were tested, and their suitability for the necessary functions is verified. Conclusions: A proper mechanical pain meter device has been designed to be used in fibromyalgia diagnosis without metal components nor wires, which is therefore compatible with simultaneous MRI.