Multi-axis Rapid Prototyping

Multi-axis Rapid Prototyping
Neil Sewell
Dr. Martin Jenkins & Dr. Richard Everson
Overview

What is RP, why use it, who uses it?

Previous work

Current work and Future work

Lab demonstration
Rapid Prototyping – 3 types

Type 1 - DTM Laser sinterstation
Rapid Prototyping

Type 2 - 3D Systems’ Stereolithography
Rapid Prototyping

Type 3 - 3D Printers
RP – Why use it?



Injection moulds are expensive to
produce
One-off test pieces can be used in real
world
Great for real world ergonomic testing
RP – Who uses it?

Virtually all major device manufacturers

Designers & Prototypers

One-off producers
Previous work...

SARP is Single Axis Rapid Prototyping
SARP – Single Axis RP

SARP is quick, cheap and easy.



Allows building of quite complex models
Is fast and efficient
But…


Will not allow for large overhangs
Is not to the same resolution
Examples of SARP

Cubes

Spheres

Arches

Logos
Current work...

MARP is Multi Axis Rapid Prototyping

Still uses VMC, Hot glue nozzle and glue

Different, more complex software

Add-on 4th and 5th Axis units to rotate
models
MARP – Multi Axis RP

Models with overhangs could be built

Building direction is continuously changed

Models created would of better quality

The process would be quicker
How to MARP – Step 1

Perform analysis of object - create a
usable data structure.
How to MARP – Step 2

Select start location & direction
How to MARP - Step 3

Start the edge following process
How to MARP – Step 4

Create machine instructions

Use glue path to locate x,y,z position

Use facet data to provide rotation values

Use collision detection methods!
(Lab demonstration at end of presentation)
Latest Work

Uses many rules




Edge vector creation & analysis
Unnecessary edge deletion & detection
Improvement & Optimisation techniques
Current problems include



Holes in model
Sticky tight corners
Finishing problems
Conclusion

MARP work is going well - But is difficult

Software




Multiple data lists
Edge following
Uses Downhill Simplex Method
Started testing Simulated Annealing
Conclusion

Realism with MARP - What can it build?

Difficult shapes

Disjoint shapes

Really complex shapes?
Thank you for listening…

Questions

Visit to lab for Multi-Axis demonstration