Optimized Mask Image Projection-based Additive Manufacturing and Its Biomedical Applications
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, creates 3D objects by depositing materials layer upon layer, and it has been widely recognized as a pivotal technology for the nation’s manufacturing revitalization. Compared with traditional subtractive manufacturing or the net shape process, AM holds several advantages. However, the inherent trade-off between accuracy and efficiency has been identified as a major obstacle to a wider adoption of AM.In order to address this challenge, in this study, we were focusing on improving the overall time efficiency of AM process. The mask image projection-based stereolithography (MIP-SL) was selected as the targeted process. It uses a digital light processing device as the light source to selectively solidify a layer of the liquid photosensitive pre-polymer. The total time consumption is comprised of two components: the time for pre-fabrication computation and the time for manufacturing. Therefore, this dissertation worked on these two aspects separately.