Tree-fiber Inspired Strengthening of 3D-printed Structures

Authors: Marco Hermida, Ping-Chuan Wang, Coltrane Fracalossi-Lail

SUNY Campus: SUNY New Paltz

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 108

Presentation #: 86

Timeslot: Session D 3:00-4:00 PM

Abstract: Through the emulation of tree fiber patterns, and their use of anisotropy to improve strength to weight ratios, 3D-printed forms can be strengthened. Tree fibers tend to run parallel to the highest stresses in the trunk and branches allowing stress to be conducted along the fibers. This same principle can be utilized in 3D-printing through the tuning of printing direction in each layer. It can be expected that this technique will help strengthen traditionally difficult 3D-printed forms in which maximum stresses change direction and location based on the loading condition. In this research project, we develop the methodology of analyzing the relationship between the printing direction of a 3D-printed structure and the stress distribution in the structure under load. Finite element analysis (FEA) is used to evaluate stress distributions across a prototype model. This data, including the magnitude and direction of the principal stresses at different locations, is mapped to a grid system to construct a vector field representing the principal stress flow within the structure. Also, 3D-printing directions at different locations are extracted from the G-code and mapped to the same grid system. The correlation between principal stresses and 3D-printing directions can then be analyzed to evaluate the mechanical integrity of the structure. This research has potential to establish guidelines for optimizing layer orientations in 3D-printed objects, allowing for the fabrication of resilient products with complex structural requirements through leveraging the anisotropic properties of 3D-printed materials.