Photocuring-while-writing: A 3D printing strategy to build free space structure and freeform surface texture

Abstract

Parts are fabricated layer-by-layer in most three-dimensional (3D) printing methods. Such a layer-based approach brings obstacles to fabricate layer-sensitive objects, such as space structures and surface textures. We present a photocuring-while-writing strategy for 3D printing. A nozzle is used to extrude photocurable material, and a laser is used to dynamically solidify the newly extruded materials instantly into desired features. Two scanning galvo mirrors control the laser spot based on a developed mathematical model. As a proof of concept, we successfully built free-standing structures and surface textures. The developed strategy may shed light on fabricating conformal features, free-standing scaffolds, and multi-material textures.