A Comparison of FDM Structural Layouts and Implementation of an Open-Source Arm-Based System

• Main Authors: Pollard David, Herrmann Guido, Ward Carwyn, Etches Julie
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: EDP Sciences 2018-01-01
• Series: MATEC Web of Conferences
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201816703002

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a manufacturing process to build components in a layer-by-layer approach through extrusion of polymers from a movable nozzle, allowing for significantly higher degrees of complexity over machined parts. Current FDM systems typically use actuation provided through a gantry or delta structural layout, operating through depositing successive planar layers in a 2.5D process; it has been shown in numerous studies the bonding between layers has significantly lower strength than the homogeneous material or in-plane properties - an issue which can be mitigated through the deposition of curved layers. This paper compares four differing structural layouts of FDM systems (gantry, delta, Stewart Platform, and arm-based) to identify the key advantages of an arm-based method as the increased workspace and manipulability enabling “Additive Finalisation” of components, and suitability for curved layer FDM. Details are then presented of the open-source implementation and evaluation of a 6 degree-of-freedom arm-based FDM printer at the University of Bristol.