Transformation algorithms for image preparation in spiral growth manufacturing (SGM)

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on software development in which mathematical algorithms apply geometric transformations to digitised images in preparation for layer manufacturing by printing a binder onto a rotating powder substrate.Design/methodology/approach – Spiral growth manufacturing (SGM) is a high‐speed rapid manufacturing technique in which objects are built up, layer by layer, by simultaneously depositing, levelling and selectively consolidating thin powder layers onto a rotating build platform. Consolidation occurs by infiltrating the powder layer with a binding agent deposited in droplet form using inkjet technology. During each rotation, the build platform falls away from a stationary doctor blade and print head assembly. This gives a continuous spiralled layer of powder with a constant layer pitch. To faithfully print digitised images onto a rotating substrate, polar and linear transformations have to be applied.Findings – In support of this work, dimensional accuracy measu...