3D printing process for multi-heterogeneous objects fabrication

The objective of this paper is to describe a novel additive process optimization algorithm for reducing the consumption time in 3D printing process. In traditional 3D printers, the printing path among the objects is layer by layer and generated by the slicing software. As a result, when multiple objects are printed at the same time, the nozzle moves among objects frequently and it would take enormous time in the transition trajectory. Although the transition travel is necessary for multiple models, it is so redundant that the process will be inefficient. This paper focuses on minimizing the distance of the transition travel and transition frequency as much as possible. The proposed process not only effectively decreases production time on printing but also saves energy consumption. Furthermore, the algorithm is physically experimented to proof the concept on the gantry-type hybrid machine developed in our NTU lab.