Simulation Methods for Stereolithography

Abstract

Stereolithography (SL) is a layered, additive manufacturing process in which an ultraviolet (UV) laser is used to selectively cure a liquid photopolymer resin in order to physically fabricate a part. Traditional SL systems use a UV laser with galvanometer-driven mirrors to scan a particular cross-section on the build surface. The limits of the resolution, both theoretical and empirical, need to be established so that accuracy and surface finish of SL-fabricated parts can be predicted.