3D printing technology allows for the production of complex products in a relatively short time. The use of stereolitography printing, in which the photopolymer is exposed to light and thus solidifies at desired spot, is increasing. The curing applies one layer at a time, whereby the printing surface is moved by a feed system. The prototype of printer we want to upgrade, is based on this principle. The upgrade includes installation of a new feed system for small movements. This new configuration would print test pieces with specific geometric shapes, which would show the influence of specific parameters on the printing accuracy of the shapes and the influence of process parameters on the smallest possible microchanel that can be manufactured. We also wanted to know if the preparation and the condition of printer components has any impact on the printing accuracy. To characterize the geometrical characteristics of the sample, a microscope was used and required dimensions were measured. It was found, that the lift height between curings and the thickness of one layer have the biggest impact. Illumination irregularities, the preperation of components and condition of the transparent foil also play a major role in printing accuracy.
|
