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Contribution to Book
Layer by Layer Validation of Geometrical Accuracy in Additive Manufacturing Processes
Proceedings of the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (2013)
  • Kai Zeng, University of Louisville
  • Nachiket Patil, University of Louisville
  • Hengfeng Gu, University of Louisville
  • Haijun Gong, Georgia Southern University
  • Deepankar Pal, University of Louisville
  • Thomas Starr, University of Louisville
  • Brent Stucker, University of Louisville
Abstract
Geometrical inaccuracy from shrinkage and residual stress-induced deformations are key sources of defects in Additive Manufacturing (AM).  In most AM processes the CAD model is represented by an STL file which is sliced into layers. The Common Layer Interface (CLI) and StereoLithography Interface (SLI) files are two layer file formats which store this slice information and can be data mined to analyze sources of error.  By comparing the original STL file against a ‘stacked’ model based upon SLI and CLI files, a “theoretical" part accuracy can be created.  In addition, these SLI/CLI files can be combined with detailed process parameter knowledge such as scan pattern, laser power, scan speed, etc., to enable a numerical prediction of part accuracy and deformations on a layer-by-layer basis.  This paper introduces a research project which is developing software and hardware tools to enable prediction and measurement of part dimensions on a layer-by-layer basis with the goal of real-time part quality validation and closed loop control.  
Keywords
  • Layer,
  • Validation,
  • Geometrical accuracy,
  • Additive manufacturing processes
Disciplines
Publication Date
August 16, 2013
Citation Information
Kai Zeng, Nachiket Patil, Hengfeng Gu, Haijun Gong, et al.. "Layer by Layer Validation of Geometrical Accuracy in Additive Manufacturing Processes" Austin, TXProceedings of the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (2013) p. 76 - 87
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/haijun-gong/23/