Ermittlung optimaler Bauteilorientierung zur Verbesserung der Prozessplanung in der CAD/RP-Kette

Abstract

In layered manufacturing, part orientation is a significant factor of influence on part and process quality. For instance, optimized part-building orientation can minimize the staircase effect as well as the curling effect and therefore increase surface quality and part accuracy respectively. Another advantage of optimized build direction is the possible consideration of form tolerances (e.g. circularity). Furthermore, different part orientations can lead to varying implementations of supports and influence part stability. These and related feedback effects have to be considered when selecting an appropriate part orientation for Rapid Prototyping applications. This paper presents a generic system to determine optimal part orientation in consideration of the mentioned factors of influence as well as related effects. In addition to further necessary experiences of the machine operators and service providers to finally set the case dependent part orientation, the introduced concept offers suggestions on the basis of an intensive geometry analysis. This can support data preparation within process planning.