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
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