Development of a Low-Cost Parallel Kinematic Machine for Multidirectional Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

Most additive manufacturing (AM) processes are layer-based with three linear motions in the X, Y, and Z axes. However, there are drawbacks associated with such limited motions, e.g., nonconformal material properties, stair-stepping effect, and limitations on building-around-inserts. Such drawbacks will limit AM to be used in more general appli cations. To enable 6-axis motions between a tool and a work piece, we investigated a Stewart mechanism and the feasibility o f developing a low-cost 3D printer fo r the multi directional fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. The technical challenges in devel oping such an AM system are discussed including the hardware design, motion planning and modeling, platform constraint checking, tool motion simulation, and platform cali bration. Several test cases are performed to illustrate the capability o f the developed mul tidirectional AM system. A discussion o f future development on multidirectional AM systems is also given.

An innovative machine for Fused Deposition Modeling of metals and advanced ceramics

“…At the same time, some examples of successful parallel kinematics approaches are being presented [14] that try to reduce the manufacturing costs. Parallel kinematics machines my also ensure precision, repeatability, stiffness and speed in positioning the table.…”

Challenges of additive manufacturing technologies from an optimisation perspective

“…Path generation needs to handle as much the change in process speed and the transition time at the borders [92]. A specific branch of research is dedicated to the optimisation of tool generation path including studies related to the improvement of the scanning mode [93,94], geometry slicing strategies [95,96], optimal material deposition [97,98], multi-directional AM [99], tool path anticipation procedures [100]. -Process selection: different technologies are developed to enhance the capabilities of AM like jet printing [26,101], friction stir AM [102], welding based AM [94], ultrasonic AM [103], electrochemical AM [104], micro-plasma powder deposition [105], Solid freeform fabrication [106] and related variants such as selective laser sintering [107,108], or directed light fabrication [20], selective infiltration manufacturing [109]).…”

Open Source Multi-Head 3D Printer for Polymer-Metal Composite Component Manufacturing

“…In addition, this improved embodied energy of manufacturing [62,63] if dispersed would provide an advantage over conventional manufacturing and home-based manufacturing [60,64,65]. At the same time, this methodology points the way toward potential 3D printing-based mass production [66] by ganging many print heads to manufacture identical bespoke products simultaneously [67][68][69][70]. This would in theory allow scaling up to the limits of the mechanical strength of the gantry materials to add additional nozzles and the stepper motors to move the assembly of hot ends.…”