Dimensional Accuracy of Lattice Structures Produced by Fused Deposition Modeling Machine Using Design of Experiment Analysis
摘要
Additive manufacturing is a novel process that has the potential to revolutionize traditional manufacturing processes. The process involves the direct joining of materials from a digital model through a layer-by-layer material build-up approach, thus enabling the creation of complex shapes and geometric structures in a short period of time. Compared to conventional subtractive manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing has the capability to reduce material waste and manufacturing costs significantly. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is one of the many types of additive manufacturing processes that have gained attention due to their capability to produce complex lattice structures. Lattice structures, in theory, offer lightweight structures with equivalent or superior mechanical performance to traditional solid designs. However, the presence of geometrical and dimensional imperfections in the structure can significantly impact the mechanical performance of the lattice design. As a result, the key issue with FDM relates to dimensional accuracy, which can impact the manufactured product’s quality. Fabricating a complex lattice structure at an optimum condition, therefore, remains a challenging task for this additive manufacturing technique. To address this issue, the capability of the FDM machine in manufacturing complex lattice structures will be investigated. Three different types of lattice designs with various dimensions will be manufactured using the FDM machine. The design of experiment analysis will be employed in these studies. The other statistical analysis methods such as probability plot, ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis test, and main effects plot will also be implemented.