A Web-based Generative Process Planning System for FDM-based Additive Manufacturing

摘要

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an emerging technology that opens up new possibilities for mass personalization and manufacturing of high added-value parts. However, in its current state, AM faces some challenges, such as part quality consistency or slow production speeds, which must be resolved in order to take full advantage of the capabilities provided by this technology. In this paper, a web-based generative process planning system is proposed to help expert and non-expert users to improve dimensional accuracy and surface finish of parts manufactured by AM at the process planning stage. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) process is specially analyzed due to its common use and accessibility. The system architecture is proposed and key enabling technologies are discussed. A case study is presented to illustrate how this system can help users understand the capabilities of FDM process and use it efficiently. The functionality of the developed system was tested successfully.