A Study on Generation Algorithm of Optimal Support Structure for Effective Building of Stereolithographic Parts

광조형물의 효율적 성형을 위한 최적 지지대 구조 생성 알고리즘에 관한 연구

Stereolithography is a process used to rapidly produce stereolithographic parts directly from three dimensional CAD models. However, design methodologies necessary to create components to be built by stereolithography are different from those required by conventional machining processes. A case in point is the nescessity of support structures, which are used to support a component during the building the build but are removed once building and curing are complete. Support structures are required to anchor the component to the platform and to prevent sagging or disortion. This paper deals with the specially maintained SupportMap data structure to find some region which need support structures. Interferences between support structures and parts, as well as among support structures are checked and statically stable regions are searched to remove the surplus support structures. Cross shaped tooth profiles are designed for easy eliminating the support structures.