Description:
Abstract
USC researchers have developed a novel SLA approach that uses highly removable water-based support structures during 3D printing. A top-down thermoelectric cooling device is used to freeze water into solid ice that surrounds the layered part assembly. A novel vacuum device sufficiently controls the ice surface level to ensure successful layer-based building. This allows for complex 3D printing without using traditional support structures.
Benefit
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Eliminates damage during support structure removal
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Replaces solid material support structures
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Decreases overall costs of 3D printing from material purchasing and post-fabrication damage
Market Application
The global market for 3D manufacturing is expected to reach $21.5 billion in 2025. This emerging technology will transform manufacturing due to its cost savings, speed, and precision. Stereolithography (SLA), the most dominant method of 3D printing, however, is still not without problems. The production of complex models often requires the use of significant intermediary support structures to ensure proper printing. These support structures are problematic as they can take a long time to remove post-fabrication, cause unintended damage during removal, and increase the cost of manufacture due to material purchasing.
Publications
Highly Removable Water Support for Stereolithography Journal of Manufacturing Processes, 2017.
Other