Germany's Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research (IGD) has developed a 3D design solution that simulates the feasibility of 3D printable objects. The company is presenting this concept, 'Go Beyond 4.0' at Hannover Messe.
Fraunhofer's software enables mass customisation with 3D technology - where customers apply their design preferences to a standard product such as a coffee mug or trainers. The software is designed to test the feasibility of CAD models before they reach the 3D printer.
Beyond the surface
It is still common that the information in a 3D model cannot be adequately converted into a 3D print. If the internal geometry is not optimised or if there are gaps or obstacles in the structure, an object, despite being seemingly perfect on the surface, will fall flat at the end. Fraunhofer's software should solve this problem.
Christian Altenhofen of the Fraunhofer Institute describes the concept as follows:
"With this concept, we ensure a smooth transition between design and simulation. In today's industry, it is often a problem to quickly determine whether an individual design can be implemented in a 3D model. In many cases, CAD data only describes the outside and does not contain volumetric information needed for simulations. This can still be done afterwards, but that process is prone to errors, requires manual rework and is costly.
Software suggestions
Fraunhofer researchers' software enables consumers and manufacturers to automatically generate the required simulation themselves. This makes it easier to determine whether design proposals made on the computer can be implemented in reality. If not, the technology itself provides suggestions on how to improve the design or product. "The customer still has many options for individual design," he says.
The software's algorithms are based on the mathematical concept of dividing divisions. Based on this, the researchers use the finite element method to derive simulation models. Specifically, the internal stresses of the model are calculated based on boundary conditions such as gravity or forces caused by the object's gravity. Depending on the distribution and absolute values of the stresses, it can be determined whether or not an object is stable.
Subdivided subdivision volumes create a consistent virtual model of the object's internal structure. "This means this approach goes beyond traditional CAD views that only describe the surfaces of 3D objects and reveal nothing about the inside. Our approach combines the volumetric values together with the surface information that define the actual design. Consumers and manufacturers therefore have access to the simulation information they need throughout the design process."
Source: Fraunhofer
By: Kelly Bakker
