Multiphysics Simulation of Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) 3D Printing Technology

Abstract

Abstract This study explores the advancements of 3D printing through Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP), which has achieved a remarkable 100-fold increase in print speed over conventional stereolithography. CLIP’s rapid printing is enabled by an oxygen inhibition layer above the resin-vat window, initiating photopolymerization above the deadzone for faster resin flow. Despite CLIP’s notable speed advantage, it struggles with artifacts arising from non-optimal print cofigurations. Our research addresses this challenge by developing a novel multiphysics simulation tool. In order to evaluate the effects of various parameters, this study introduces a 2D-CLIP multiphysics simulation tool integrating optical and chemical models. The simulation tool employs a MATLAB-PDE solver that incorporates multiphysics equations to forecast deadzone thickness and cured dimensions at various print settings. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the CLIP process and its variables. The simulation tool effectively predicts key parameters, aiding in the fine-tuning of the printing process. It significantly reduces experimental costs and time while enhancing the precision of CLIP 3D printing. The tool’s predictions are instrumental in optimizing print parameters, thereby mitigating the prevalent artifacts in printed objects. This research contributes a pioneering simulation tool for CLIP 3D printing, addressing the critical gap in optimizing print configurations. Its innovative approach in integrating multiphysics models within a simulation framework offers a valuable asset in advancing the capabilities of high-speed 3D printing technologies.