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The technology uses geometry data which is sliced and completed in seconds, even for parts with over 10 million facets.
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A Heuristic Algorithm for Slicing CAD Parts and Producing Deposition Paths for Rapid Prototyping Abstract: The software is for converting STL or PLY CAD data into boundary and fill paths for rapid freeze prototyping (RFP). The algorithm, developed for one commercial robotic system, can also be used to produce toolpaths for other rapid prototyping systems. The algorithm entails five steps: (a) geometry data and other control parameters are imported; (b) the geometry is sliced at several equidistant heights to form bounding paths; (c) contours for the scaffolding material are computed; (d) part and scaffolding paths are buffered in or out to account for deposition path width; and (e) fill paths are computed. Applications -Rapid prototyping -Machining with use of STL files Advantages -Steps (a) and (b) are completed in seconds, even for parts with over 10 million facets -Scaffolding paths are computed based only on the STL or PLY part.