In 3D printing, the 3D digital model is the premise and basis, and 3D printing is the result, which makes the 3D model "land and bloom". However, in many cases, the 3D model can not be directly output to the 3D printer or the printed object does not meet the needs of the user. At this time, it is necessary to go through some geometric modeling and processing methods to correct, adjust, process and optimize the input 3D model, so that it can better meet the needs of 3D printing, and avoid the printed object can not function normally.
The traditional 3D modeling and processing methods need to be further modified and strengthened, and the mechanical and functional properties of the output physical model need to be taken into account in the modeling process. On the one hand, the mathematical properties of the model affect its physical properties; On the other hand, the requirements for physical properties affect the modification of mathematical properties, and the two properties affect each other, often requiring iteration in the process of processing and optimization. In computer graphics or computer-aided geometric design, the main purpose of 3D modeling is for modeling, rendering or animation, considering the mathematical properties of the model, such as the shape, continuity, smoothness, material, deformation, and other properties of the surface; In 3D printing, the output of the 3D model is a physical model, and more needs to be considered is the physical properties of the physical model (mechanical properties and functional properties).
We should consider the following factors:
1. Geometric calculation problem: Given a 3D digital model, it needs to be discrete into a triangular mesh (STL file), then add the filling structure, add the support structure, then slice calculation and path planning, and finally send to the 3D printer to output a physical model through G code. This process is the main work of the 3D printer's slicing engine software, which involves a lot of geometric calculations;
2. Print constraint problem: In many cases, the input 3D model has some problems, and can not be directly output to the 3D printer, such as the topology of the 3D model itself is not standardized, can not be sliced; Print failure due to overhang; The size of the model is too large, exceeding the size limit of the printer; The printed object can not be placed normally because the stability is not considered;
3. Structural optimization problem: Due to the lack of design experience and mechanical knowledge of designers, the design results can not be printed normally due to structural problems or there will be some structural strength problems after 3D printing. Insufficient strength can cause damage to 3D models during printing, transportation, or everyday use. This kind of problem is called a structural analysis and optimization problem. At this time, it is necessary to optimize the structure of the model through mechanical and physical simulation calculation (finite element method -FEM) to meet the needs.
4. functional customization: customization is one of the biggest advantages of 3D printing, which has spawned a large number of research questions and research methods. For example, (1) Apply various models and methods developed in the rendering theory to 3D printing, involving the appearance simulation, measurement, and synthesis optimization of printing materials; (2) Model customization for medical, education, entertainment, and fashion needs, and reverse design for light, shadow and sound effects; (3) Objects with specific functions assembled by sub-block design and printing and by hinges, pulleys, gears, motors and other mechanical devices, in which there are many mechanism design and optimization problems.
3D printing is widely used to make prototypes, models and etc. The most important technology is transferring 3D design files to 3D digital modeling. That ensures the smoothing printing process, with high efficiency and quality. For more information please visit JMPROTO. Also if you have inquiries about the CNC process, laser cutting, metal sheet fabrication, and die casting processes, you can also visit JMPROTO for more information. thanks.
