Concave edge-based part decomposition for hybrid rapid prototyping

As one of the solutions to the limitations of the current layered manufacturing, hybrid rapid prototyping systems that perform both machining and deposition are being introduced. In the hybrid rapid prototyping, a part of a complicated shape is realized by adding layers of a simpler shape, each of which is obtained by machining a sheet of constant thickness from its top and bottom surfaces. Thus it is desired to decompose a given part into the minimum number of layers while guaranteeing each layer to be fabricated from the given sheets using a 3-axis milling machine. To satisfy these requirements, a concave edge-based approach is proposed to decompose a part into layers by considering the tool accessibility, the total number of layers, and the allowable sheet thickness. In this approach, for a given build-up direction, the undercut edges, which cause a part to be inaccessible by a tool, are extracted and classified into two types and eliminated in two decomposition steps. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.