Computational Design of Complex 3D Printed Objects

Abstract

This chapter focuses on topology optimization (TO), a prominent computational design method that is often associated with 3D printing. In both the commercial and research domains, density-based TO method is most prominent. The seemingly simple geometric requirement of restricting the angle of downfacing surfaces can be included in TO in a number of ways. The chapter describes three main overhang angle control approaches: local angle control, physics-based constraints and simplified printing process. A computational method to determine the printable regions of a given part geometry enables different design scenarios for 3D printing. The chapter presents a case study on computational design of a 3D-Printed flow manifold. This manifold facilitates fluid flow from an inlet to an outlet at predefined positions. Additive manufacturing (AM) is in constant development, and computational design techniques for AM are constantly evolving as well.