Optimally orient and position multiple solid objects for batch production in 3D printing

Abstract

3D printing or layered manufacturing is a computer-aided manufacturing process that fabricates parts through layer-wise deposition of material(s). Even though its material deposition techniques exploit wide spectrum of process physics including fused model deposition, stereolithography, selective laser sintering, laminated object manufacturing and inkjet print, its process planning are largely universal: similar workflow steps (e.g., build tray stacking, slicing, tool-path/dot-map generation) and similar objectives (e.g., fast build time, high accuracy, reduced material consumption). The configurations of the print step encapsulate the heterogeneity of the process physics and the associative assistive procedures (e.g., compensation, support).This paper describes our ongoing research into developing an optimization solution to assist process planning to meet the multiple, oftentimes competing objectives. In particular, this paper focuses on batching multiple objects for simultaneous production within the same build tray. Even though throughout this paper we use Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM, [1]) as example to illustrate 3D printing production, our solution is printing technology agnostic and generally applicable to other printing technologies.