GENERATING SUPPORT MATERIAL FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING

摘要

In one embodiment of the present invention, a support structure generator creates support structures designed to buttress three-dimensional (3D) digital models during 3D printing. In operation, the support structure generator incrementally constructs a support graph that connects overhanging points included in the 3D model with support points on a horizontal ground plane or relatively flat surfaces in the 3D model. After generating the 3D model, the support structure generator translates the connections between the nodes into support posts sized to sufficiently support the connected surfaces with the minimum amount of support material. Advantageously, the support structure is noticeably sparser than conventional support structures that fill a given support region with a solid volume of support material. Consequently, the time necessary for 3D printers to fabricate the support structure of interconnected support posts is less than the time required for 3D printers to fabricate conventional support structures.

主权项

1. A computer-implemented method for selecting support points included in support structures implemented when printing three-dimensional models, the method comprising:
applying a first constraint to a first unsupported point included in a support structure to identify a candidate region, wherein the support structure is connected to a three-dimensional model; evaluating the candidate region to determine a first support point, wherein the first support point comprises a point included within the candidate region that is closest to the three-dimensional model; and generating a first support post between the first unsupported point and the first support point.