Computer-aided Design Model Research Articles

ASSESSMENT OF PHOTOGRAMMETRY TECHNIQUES FOR 3D MODEL ACQUISITION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE ACCURACY AND SUITABILITY OF SCANNED MODELS COMPARED TO CAD REFERENCES

This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the accuracy of 3D scanning methods using various devices and software to generate 3D models. The resulting models were compared to their corresponding Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models to quantify discrepancies. The primary objective was to assess potential errors, benefits, and limitations of each scanning method, providing insights for future research and development. A switch, chosen as the test object for its moderate complexity and size, enabled a thorough assessment under realistic conditions. The analysis reveals the strengths and limitations of each scanning method, guiding researchers and developers in selecting the most suitable techniques for specific applications. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of device and software parameters on the accuracy of 3D models, offering a comprehensive evaluation of effective techniques for 3D model.

Bayesian mesh optimization for graph neural networks to enhance engineering performance prediction

Abstract In engineering design, surrogate models are widely employed to reduce the computational costs of simulations by approximating design variables and geometric parameters from computer-aided design (CAD) models. However, traditional surrogate models often lose critical information when simplified to lower dimensions, and face challenges in handling the complexity of 3D shapes, especially in industrial datasets. To address these limitations, we propose a Bayesian graph neural network (GNN) framework that directly learns geometric features from CAD mesh representations for accurate engineering performance prediction. Our framework leverages Bayesian optimization (BO) to dynamically determine the optimal mesh element size, significantly improving model accuracy while balancing computational efficiency. This approach addresses the challenge of mesh quality by optimizing mesh resolution, ensuring that critical geometric features are preserved in 3D deep-learning-based surrogate models. Unlike existing models that rely on static or predefined mesh resolutions, our method adapts mesh size based on the task, making it highly flexible for a wide range of engineering applications. Experimental results demonstrate that mesh quality directly impacts prediction accuracy, and the proposed BO-EI GNN model outperforms state-of-the-art models such as 3D CNN, SubdivNet, GCN, and GNN in predicting mass, rim stiffness, and disk stiffness. Our method also significantly reduces the computational costs compared to traditional optimization techniques. The proposed framework shows promising potential for application in finite element analysis (FEA) and other mesh-based simulations, enhancing the utility of surrogate models across various engineering fields.

Detailed Images of Deep Brain Stimulation Leads Using Micro-CT

Introduction: One of the challenges in directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) is to determine the orientation of implanted electrodes relative to targeted regions. Post-operative images must be aligned with a model of the implanted lead, usually a computer-based model provided by the manufacturer. This paper shows that models can alternatively be obtained by capturing images of individual leads using micro-CT, a high-resolution CT technique. Contrary to computer-aided design models, lead models generated this way provide realistic X-ray contrast and finer details. Methods: We scanned DBS leads from various vendors using a Bruker SkyScan 1276 micro-CT system. To reduce beam-hardening artefacts, samples were scanned at maximum X-ray tube voltage (100 kV) and with copper filtering. Images were made publicly available for download and 3D visualisation. Conclusion: Detailed images of single DBS leads can be generated using standard micro-CT systems. Their use as reference models could improve lead orientation algorithms, in particular those dedicated to X-ray modalities. Furthermore, the possibility to share models online could broaden access for clinical research.

Manufacturing of Thermoset Polyimide Composites by Laser Sintering

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing technique that builds 3D models layer by layer using a laser to selectively melt cross sections in powdered polymeric materials, following sequential slices of the computer-aided design (CAD) model. SLS generally uses thermoplastic polymeric powders such as polyamides. The resultant 3D-printed objects are often weaker in their strength compared to traditionally processed materials, due to their higher porosity. This paper described the process development of using melt-processable imide oligomers terminated with reactive 4-phenylethynylphthalic anhydride (4-PEPA) to conduct laser sintering (LS). The first successful 3D-printing of high temperature RTM370 thermoset polyimide carbon fiber composite was further post-cured to promote additional crosslinking for achieving higher temperature (Tg = 370°C) capability. Another novel imide oligomer, RTM385-SLS, formulated with a complex melt viscosity [h*] of ~104-105 poise is also suitable for LS. RTM385-SLS resin powder was mixed with 20-25% of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and subjected to LS to print out “Green” specimens which could be further post-cured to afford a thermally conductive but electrically insulating composites with high Tg of 385°C. The cured composite specimens were then subjected to mechanical testing, thermal conductivity and porosity evaluation as well as SEM characterization.

Comparing scissors and scalpels to a novel surgical instrument: a biomechanical sectioning study

BackgroundThis study introduces a novel surgical instrument to reduce iatrogenic nerve injuries during procedures such as carpal tunnel and ulnar nerve decompression surgery. These injuries often result from direct damage to surrounding tissues by surgical instruments, whose designs have remained largely unchanged over the past decades. The novel device is a modified surgical forceps that has a deployable surgical scalpel that runs along a groove on the forceps. This design protects important anatomical structures while allowing fast dissection and cutting of fascial layers.MethodsThe process used to develop a novel instrument included computer-aided design (CAD) modeling, 3D printing for prototyping, and the fabrication of an aluminum prototype. Biomechanical testing was performed with the novel device, iris scissors, bandage scissors, and a scalpel on an MTS Static Materials Test System. The peak force to slide-cut, number of cut attempts, and percentage cut on first attempt were compared between the prototype and traditional surgical tools. The materials cut in testing were Ace™ bandage, stockinette, and gauze. Statistical analyses were performed using Welch’s t-tests and Fisher’s exact tests.ResultsCompared to conventional bandage and iris scissors, the novel surgical instrument required significantly less force to cut through an Ace™ bandage, stockinette, and gauze (p < 0.01). The number of cuts required to transect those same materials with the novel device was comparable to that of the scalpel and bandage scissors. Additionally, while there were no differences between the novel device and the other devices for an Ace™ bandage and stockinette, the novel device tended to cut a greater percentage of gauze in one pass than did the iris scissors.ConclusionThe novel surgical instrument designed in this study required less force compared to conventional scissors, demonstrated cutting efficiency similar to that of a scalpel blade, and had more safety features than either instrument. This study highlights the value of collaboration between biomedical engineering and orthopedic surgery departments on innovation in medical technology, through which new technologies with improved design and functionality demonstrate the potential to reduce iatrogenic injuries.

A programmable platform for probing cell migration and proliferation.

The advent of advanced robotic platforms and workflow automation tools has revolutionized the landscape of biological research, offering unprecedented levels of precision, reproducibility, and versatility in experimental design. In this work, we present an automated and modular workflow for exploring cell behavior in two-dimensional culture systems. By integrating the BioAssemblyBot® (BAB) robotic platform and the BioApps™ workflow automater with live-cell fluorescence microscopy, our workflow facilitates execution and analysis of in vitro migration and proliferation assays. Robotic assistance and automation allow for the precise and reproducible creation of highly customizable cell-free zones (CFZs), or wounds, in cell monolayers and "hands-free," schedulable integration with real-time monitoring systems for cellular dynamics. CFZs are designed as computer-aided design models and recreated in confluent cell layers by the BAB 3D-Bioprinting tool. The dynamics of migration and proliferation are evaluated in individual cells using live-cell fluorescence microscopy and an in-house pipeline for image processing and single-cell tracking. Our robotics-assisted approach outperforms manual scratch assays with enhanced reproducibility, adaptability, and precision. The incorporation of automation further facilitates increased flexibility in wound geometry and allows for many experimental conditions to be analyzed in parallel. Unlike traditional cell migration assays, our workflow offers an adjustable platform that can be tailored to a wide range of applications with high-throughput capability. The key features of this system, including its scalability, versatility, and the ability to maintain a high degree of experimental control, position it as a valuable tool for researchers across various disciplines.

Enhancement of Additive Manufacturing Processes for Thin-Walled Part Production Using Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) with Wavelet Transform

Additive manufacturing encompasses technologies that produce three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) models through a layer-by-layer production process. Compared to traditional manufacturing methods, additive manufacturing technologies offer significant advantages in producing intricate components with minimal energy consumption, reduced raw material waste, and shortened production timelines. AM methods based on shielded gas welding have recently piqued the interest of researchers due to their high efficiency and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing critical components. However, one of the most formidable challenges in additive manufacturing methods based on shielded gas welding lies in the irregularity of weld bead height at different points, compromising the precision of components produced using these techniques. In this current research, we aimed to achieve uniform weld heights along the welding path by considering the most influential parameters on weld bead geometry and conducting experimental tests. Input parameters of the process, including nozzle angle, welding speed, wire speed, and voltage, were considered. Simultaneously, image processing and wavelet transform were employed to assess the uniformity of weld bead height. These parameters were applied to produce intricate parts after identifying optimal parameters that yielded the smoothest weld lines. According to the results, the appropriate bead for manufacturing the part was extracted. The results show that the smoothest bead line is achieved in 27 V as the highest level of voltage, at a 90° nozzle position and the maximum wire feed rate. Parts manufactured using this method across different layers exhibited no distortions, and the repeatability of production substantiated the high reliability of this approach for component manufacturing.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of stress distribution on different complex macro designs in commercially available implants: An in-vitro study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of different commercially available complex implant macro designs on stress distributions using Finite element analysis. The experiment is done under varying simulated bone conditions to provide reference for clinical application. Materials and methodsThe study employed the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method to compare four commercially available complex implant macro designs on a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model of a maxillary bone segment. The three-dimensional geometrical model of the implants was reconstructed from computed tomography (CT)-slices in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format and contact condition between the implant and the bone was considered as ‘Bonded’, implying perfect osseointegration. All materials used in the models were assumed to be isotropic, homogeneous, and linearly elastic. The Finite element simulations employed load of 400 N under both axial and non-axial conditions Stresses were analysed under different bone conditions. ResultsAverage values of von Mises stresses were used for comparing stress levels between implant designs. There was a definite increase in the equivalent stress values from higher density(D1)to lower density (D4) bone conditions for all implants. The percentage of increase ranged from 23.63 to 49.39 on axial loading and 20.39 to 57.19 when subjected to non-axial loading. The equivalent stress values resulted from non-axial loading were 1.78–2.94 times higher than that of axial loading for all implants under all bone densities. Among the complex designs Equinox Myriad Plus implant exhibited the least stress under axial loading (12.749–19.046 MPa) and (37.462–49.217 MPa) for non-axial loading. The stress on the crestal module was higher (1.49–2.99 times) than the overall stress on the implant regardless of the loading direction or bone conditions. ConclusionsData from the present study shows Equinox Myriad Plus implant generating the least equivalent stress and this can be taken as indicator in the biomechanical performance of the design.

Advancing packaging technology: computational fluid dynamics modeling for capillary underfill encapsulant in multi-chip heterogenous packages

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamics of capillary underfill flow (CUF) in flip-chip packaging, particularly in a multi-chip configuration. The study aims to understand how various parameters, such as chip-to-chip spacing (S12), chip thickness (tc) and others, affect the underfill flow process. By using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental studies, the goal is to provide insights into understanding the dynamics of CUF in heterogeneous electronic packaging. Design/methodology/approach The paper introduces a CFD analysis and experimental study on CUF in a multi-chip configuration, aiming to understand underfill flow dynamics. A 3D geometry models of multi-chip arrangement are created using computer-aided design (CAD) software. After that, the CAD models are meshed and simulated in Ansys Fluent using incompressible and non-Newtonian fluid properties. The study maintains S12 of 2.86 and tc of 22.29 between experimental and simulation data for results validation. Next, a various of S12 values (1.14, 2.86, 5.71, 8.57, 14.29 and 20) which focus on tc of 22.29 have been investigated. Further studies have been conduct using S12 of 5.71 and tc of 8.00, 14.29 and 22.29. Findings Results show a strong correlation between simulation and experiment which validate the correctness and robustness of simulation. Further parameter’s studies using simulation for various of S12 indicated that higher S12 values lead to faster flow. This effect is due to large underfill weight from reservoir able to flow into S12 region which contributed to higher mass momentum movement. Furthermore, the effect of various of tc shows that the thicker the chip the faster the underfill to flow in S12 region. Research limitations/implications The intentional exclusion of solder bump pattern arrangements from the experiment and simulation may limit the study's ability to fully understand the impact of solder bump patterns on underfill flow. Therefore, more parameters can be investigated such as solder bump pattern, underfill weight and dispense pattern in the future using CFD. Practical implications The manuscript provides a comprehensive examination of the contributions of CFD to the advancement of knowledge regarding CUF phenomena in heterogeneous electronic packaging assemblies. Moreover, it delineates the utilization of CFD methodologies to assess the influence of chip-to-chip spacing (S12) and the thickness of the chip (tc) on the underfill flow characteristics. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identified need of computational fluid dynamics method to study capillary underfill flow dynamics in heterogenous electronic packaging.

Using disruptive innovation to design endoscopic ligators for resource-challenged health settings.

Commercial single-use endoscopic multiband ligators, used for esophageal variceal band ligation (EVL), are prohibitively expensive. To enable greater access to EVL, we used disruptive innovation to develop a novel endoscopic multiband ligator. We designed and tested a prototype handle 'ENDOhandle' using computer-aided design modeling and exported a cap, trigger cord and latex to form a functional banding unit. The cost of the banding unit was US$4.80 compared with several hundred US dollars for commercially available devices in the USA. Disruptive innovation technology developed an inexpensive ligator for resource-challenged health settings.

Modification of the Surface Topography of Additive Materials under Ar+ Ion Irradiation

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a modern developing group of technologies based not on the removal of material, but on the layer-by-layer growth and synthesis of an object according to a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model. The main disadvantages of objects manufactured using AM technologies are a high degree of porosity and surface roughness. This work examines the possibility of modifying the surface of additive materials Ti6Al4V and AlSi10Mg using irradiation with Ar+ ions with energies in the range from 2 to 9 keV. Using SEM, the surface topography was obtained before and after irradiation and mechanical polishing. A reduction in surface porosity and roughness was demonstrated, as well as the influence of beam energy on the final surface topography.

Linear and Volumetric Polyethylene Wear Patterns after Primary Cruciate-Retaining Total Knee Arthroplasty Failure: An Analysis Using Optical Scanning and Computer-Aided Design Models.

(1) Background: Analyses of retrieved inserts allow for a better understanding of TKA failure mechanisms and the detection of factors that cause increased wear. The purpose of this implant retrieval study was to identify whether insert volumetric wear significantly differs among groups of common causes of total knee arthroplasty failure, whether there is a characteristic wear distribution pattern for a common cause of failure, and whether nominal insert size and component size ratio (femur-to-insert) influence linear and volumetric wear rates. (2) Methods: We digitally reconstructed 59 retrieved single-model cruciate-retaining inserts and computed their articular load-bearing surface wear utilizing an optical scanner and computer-aided design models as references. After comprehensively reviewing all cases, each was categorized into one or more of the following groups: prosthetic joint infection, osteolysis, clinical loosening of the component, joint malalignment or component malposition, instability, and other isolated causes. The associations between volumetric wear and causes of failure were estimated using a multiple linear regression model adjusted for time in situ. Insert linear penetration wear maps from the respective groups of failure were further processed and merged to create a single average binary image, highlighting a potential wear distribution pattern. The differences in wear rates according to nominal insert size (small vs. medium vs. large) and component size ratio (≤1 vs. >1) were tested using the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney test, respectively. (3) Results: Patients with identified osteolysis alone and those also with clinical loosening of the component had significantly higher volumetric wear when compared to those without both causes (p = 0.016 and p = 0.009, respectively). All other causes were not significantly associated with volumetric wear. The instability group differentiated from the others with a combined peripheral antero-posterior wear distribution. Linear and volumetric wear rates showed no significant differences when compared by nominal insert size (small vs. medium vs. large, p = 0.563 and p = 0.747, respectively) or by component (femoral-to-insert) size ratio (≤1 vs. >1, p = 0.885 and p = 0.055, respectively). (4) Conclusions: The study found increased volumetric wear in cases of osteolysis alone, with greater wear when combined with clinical loosening compared to other groups. The instability group demonstrated a characteristic peripheral anterior and posterior wear pattern. Insert size and component size ratio seem not to influence wear rates.

Translucent zirconia dental prosthesis processed by Direct Ink Writing: Updates and challenges

Direct ink writing (DIW) is an extrusion-based additive manufacturing technique, which uses a layer-by-layer deposition of an ink, usually containing high solid loads and low concentration of additives, to provide plasticity and structural stability for the construction of near-net-shaped pieces. In this work, a zirconia stabilized with 5 mol% Y2O3 colloidal ink was developed aiming to obtain dense prototypes, partially translucent, with potential for making dental prostheses. Cylindrical pieces (Ø 20 mm × 2.5 mm), prismatic bars (55 × 5 × 4 mm) and 3-element dental prostheses were printed based on Computer-aided design (CAD) models, using a printing speed of 10 mm.s−1 and a nozzle with Ø 0.25 mm. The printed samples were dried at strictly controlled conditions, debinded using an optimized thermal cycle, and sintered at 1600 °C-2 h. The sintered parts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Vickers hardness, fracture toughness and bending strength. Concerning dental prosthesis, a post-processing finishing strategy was performed on pre-sintered bodies to highlight the anatomical details. After sintering, samples presented relative density around 94–95 %, Vickers hardness, fracture toughness and Young Modulus of 12.7 ± 0.3GPa, 5.31 ± 0.21 MPa.m1/2 and 195.4 ± 45 GPa, respectively. A characteristic strength (σ0) of 303 MPa was attained, which is above the requirements for its application as ceramic single-unit dental prostheses. A critical analysis of the technological difficulties of this 3D printing technique for manufacturing dental prostheses is presented, while future directions are addressed.

Vat photopolymerization of multifunctional fresnel lenses for ocular management.

In this study, multifunctional Fresnel lenses were explored as a potential solution for correcting vision in patients with color vision deficiency (CVD) and high myopia. Current studies have primarily focused on color vision correction through the 3D printing of glasses and contact lenses. However, the potential of 3D-printed multifunctional devices, such as Fresnel lenses, goes beyond addressing a single vision correction issue. For this study, computer-aided design (CAD) model of Fresnel lens with high diopter based on constant height configuration was developed. The CAD model was successfully fabricated using vat photopolymerization 3D printer, employing laboratory-prepared transparent HEMA resin. The resin was modified with two Atto dyes (565nm and 488nm), known for their ability to filter out problematic wavelengths (400-500nm and 540-580nm) to address color vision deficiency. The printed lenses were characterized by their chemical, physical, and optical properties using various characterization techniques. The focusing performance was evaluated using focal length measurements, and the results obtained were less than 2mm deviation from the design value, having the potential to assist in higher myopic vision correction. The resulting optical spectra were compared with commercial glasses, revealing close agreement for CVD correction. These results expand the potential applications of multifunctional Fresnel lenses in ophthalmology, demonstrating their effectiveness as vision-correcting lenses and imaging systems.

An experimental study on wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) of 308L stainless steel and its chemical dissolution

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is a potential method of producing complicated metal parts directly from computer-aided design (CAD) models. In this experiment, stainless steel 308 L alloy was deposited with a GMAW-interfaced three-axis special purpose Cartesian robot. The major goal was to understand the behaviour of deposited material and, later, its dissolution in specific concentrations of chemical combinations. The deposited samples were investigated for better understanding of the impact of welding current on bead properties, surface roughness, and microstructure. Furthermore, the dissolving behaviour of deposited samples was investigated in various acidic bath mixes to better understand the rate of dissolution. The results reveal that WAAM parameters, particularly current, have a considerable impact on bead properties, roughness, and microstructure. On the other hand, dissolution experiments demonstrated that the faster breakdown of WAAM deposited stainless steel occurs when a 1:1 ratio mixture of acids is used.

Разработка прогностической математической модели травматических повреждений печени

Intra-abdominal bleeding is a leading cause of adverse outcomes in liver trauma, underscoring the critical importance of timely surgical intervention and optimal hemostasis strategies. This study investigates the impact of liver model segmentation on the distribution of mechanical stresses during impact simulation using the finite element method. By discretizing a computer-aided design (CAD) model into finite elements of two types – 4-node linear isoparametric elements for the parenchyma and 3-node Kirchhoff plate elements for intersegmental partitions – we developed a computational liver model adequately captures the organ's anatomy. Our results show that incorporating segmentation significantly affects the simulation outcomes, enabling a more realistic assessment of tissue damage patterns upon impact. This approach facilitates the simulation of a wide range of real-world traumatic effects, allowing for arbitrary specification of impact direction, speed, and affected area. By accounting for liver segmentation, our study provides a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of traumatic liver injuries, ultimately informing clinical decision-making and improving patient outcomes.

Numerical Investigation of Thermal Performance Enhancement in a Newly Designed Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger using 〖"TiO" 〗_"2" Nanofluids

This study investigates the use of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofluids to enhance the thermal performance of shell and tube heat exchangers. A comparative computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is conducted using water and a 0.5% TiO2 nanofluid. The heat exchanger is modelled using computer-aided design (CAD), with dimensions closely resembling commercial units. The CFD model is validated through a grid-independence study, with a mesh of 4,112,679 elements yielding grid-independent results. The key findings show that the 0.5% TiO2 nanofluid increases the cold fluid outlet temperature by 11.44% compared to water (36.04°C vs. 33.63°C). The average heat transfer coefficient is enhanced by 12.3% when using the nanofluid. The CFD results are consistent with experimental data, with a maximum deviation of 4.2% in the outlet temperatures. This study demonstrates the successful integration of TiO2 nanofluids with an optimized shell and tube heat exchanger design. The novelty lies in the application of nanofluids to improve the thermal performance of industrial heat exchangers. The presented methodology, combining CAD modelling and CFD analysis, provides a foundation for further optimization and experimental validation of nanofluid-enhanced heat transfer systems.

An automated CAD-to-XR framework based on generative AI and Shrinkwrap modelling for a User-Centred design approach

CAD-to-XR is the workflow to generate interactive Photorealistic Virtual Prototypes (iPVPs) for Extended Reality (XR) apps from Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models. This process entails modelling, texturing, and XR programming. In the literature, no automatic CAD-to-XR frameworks simultaneously manage CAD simplification and texturing. There are no examples of their adoption for User-Centered Design (UCD). Moreover, such CAD-to-XR workflows do not seize the potentialities of generative algorithms to produce synthetic images (textures). The paper presents a framework for implementing the CAD-to-XR workflow. The solution consists of a module for texture generation based on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs). The generated texture is then managed by another module (based on Shrinkwrap modelling) to develop the iPVP by simplifying the 3D model and UV mapping the generated texture. The geometric and material data is integrated into a graphic engine, which allows for programming an interactive experience with the iPVP in XR. The CAD-to-XR framework was validated on two components (rifle stock and forend) of a sporting rifle. The solution can automate the texturing process of different product versions in shorter times (compared to a manual procedure). After each product revision, it avoids tedious and manual activities required to generate a new iPVP. The image quality metrics highlight that images are generated in a “realistic” manner (the perceived quality of generated textures is highly comparable to real images). The quality of the iPVPs, generated through the proposed framework and visualised by users through a mixed reality head-mounted display, is equivalent to traditionally designed prototypes.

Establishing complexity targets to enhance artificial reef designs

Artificial reefs (AR), which are integral tools for fish management, ecological reconciliation and restoration efforts, require non-polluting materials and intricate designs that mimic natural habitats. Despite their three-dimensional complexity, current designs nowadays rely on empirical methods that lack standardised pre-immersion assessment. To improve ecosystem integration, we propose to evaluate 3-dimensional Computer-aided Design (3D CAD) models using a method inspired by functional ecology principles. Based on existing metrics, we assess geometric (C-convexity, P-packing, D-fractal dimension) and informational complexity (R-specific richness, H- diversity, J-evenness). Applying these metrics to different reefs constructed for habitat protection, biomass production and bio-mimicry purposes, we identify potential complexity target points (CTPs). This method provides a framework for improving the effectiveness of artificial reef design by allowing for the adjustment of structural properties. These CTPs represent the first step in enhancing AR designs. We can refine them by evaluating complexity metrics derived from 3D reconstructions of natural habitats to advance bio-mimicry efforts. In situ, post-immersion studies can help make the CTPs more specific for certain species of interest by exploring complexity-diversity or complexity-species distribution relationships at the artificial reef scale.

From CAD to G-code: Strategies to minimizing errors in 3D printing process

In this study, an analysis was conducted to quantify errors in the additive manufacturing process, with a focus on comparing data files. The primary objective was to minimise the reliance on physical testing of produced components by favouring verification within a virtual environment. The initial focus was on the conversion from the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model to the STL (Standard Tessellation Language) file, where discrepancies between the two formats were identified. To achieve optimal meshing, it is crucial to configure conversion parameters effectively, avoiding both detail loss and the handling of excessively large files. Following this, a comparison between STL files and reconstructed G-code files was conducted, uncovering further approximations introduced by the most commonly used slicers. In conclusion, the analysis highlights that both the quality of the mesh and the slicing phase significantly impact the final component. Understanding these factors is essential for achieving an optimal print outcome.