Build Time Estimation for Fused Filament Fabrication via Average Printing Speed.

Gustavo Medina-Sanchez,Rubén Dorado-Vicente,Rafael López-García,Eloísa Torres-Jiménez

doi:10.3390/ma12233982

Abstract

Build time is a key issue in additive manufacturing, but even nowadays, its accurate estimation is challenging. This work proposes a build time estimation method for fused filament fabrication (FFF) based on an average printing speed model. It captures the printer kinematics by fitting printing speed measurements for different interpolation segment lengths and changes of direction along the printing path. Unlike analytical approaches, printer users do not need to know the printer kinematics parameters such as maximum speed and acceleration or how the printer movement is programmed to obtain an accurate estimation. To build the proposed model, few measurements are needed. Two approaches are proposed: a fitting procedure via linear and power approximations, and a Coons patch. The procedure was applied to three desktop FFF printers, and different infill patterns and part shapes were tested. The proposed method provides a robust and accurate estimation with a maximum relative error below 8.5%.

Highlights

This validation procedure consists of carrying out several paths where the printing time is recorded and compared to that provided by each approximation model
In Section 4.2.1, this procedure is applied to random paths, with the target of facilitating the variation in direction and segment length of a trajectory and analyzing their influence on printing time estimation
In Section 4.2.2., the validation procedure is applied to several printed parts with different geometries in order to find out if the results provided by the approximation surfaces are accurate for actual examples

Summary

Introduction

Since the first 3D printer was developed in the early 80s, the number of additive manufacturing (AM) solutions, often called 3D printing methods in a non-technical context, and their applications do not stop increasing. It is noteworthy the potential of AM in different applications such as bio-printing [1,2], replicating broken objects or custom parts [3], experimental and educational demonstrators [4], rapid tooling [5] and so on. According to the standard ISO/ASTM 52900-15 [6], AM solutions produce objects by joining materials, usually layer by layer, from 3D models. The main AM advantages over traditional methods are low product development time, material savings, and capability to produce objects with complex shapes, enhanced density, and interior structures [7]

Methods

Results

Conclusion