Hilbert curve based toolpath for fdm process

Abstract

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is one of the most widespread additive manufacturing technique used for fabricating 3D objects without any design constraints. It is a solid-based process in which polymers material in the form of semi molten state is extruded from the nozzle to fabricate the 3D objects. In the present work, a new tool path strategy for FDM process has been developed based on Hilbert curve. Hilbert curve is a space filling fractal curve and its hausdorff dimension is two. This curve is surjective and continuous in nature. The proposed tool path from developed program are validated though simulation and experimental results. The new approach has been simulated using MATLAB computing platform. Boolean operators like intersection and subtraction are utilized for finding the intersection points for the tool path generation. A self-developed extruder system based on screw extrusion is used for the real time application of the algorithm developed. The extruder head is reconfigured to an existing CNC milling machine for printing and production purpose. Case study for different types of prototypes are also presented to demonstrate the capabilities of developed tool path algorithm.