Automated Toolpath Generation for Hybrid Additive-Subtractive Fabrication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Determination of toolpaths for part fabrication, especially combined additive and subtractive techniques, is complex and time-consuming, leading to inefficiencies in fabrication processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automated toolpath generation that includes receiving a virtual part, modifying it for fabrication, determining efficient toolpaths, and generating machine instructions for both additive and subtractive processes, allowing for semi-automated workflow and reduced material waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated toolpath generation is implemented, then fabrication efficiency is improved and material waste is reduced, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fabrication process into distinct phases (additive fabrication, support removal, subtractive fabrication) and generates separate toolpaths for each phase. This segmentation allows the automated system to handle complex combined additive-subtractive processes by breaking them down into manageable, optimized segments that can be executed sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computing system that acts as a mediator between the part design and the fabrication processes. This computing system automatically generates and optimizes toolpaths for both additive and subtractive operations, eliminating the need for manual programming and reducing system complexity by centralizing the intelligence in a dedicated software component.
2Device complexity
If manual toolpath determination is used, then system complexity is reduced, but fabrication time and material waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the computing system to automatically generate and optimize toolpaths without requiring manual intervention from operators. The automated toolpath generation algorithm independently determines the optimal fabrication sequence, cutting parameters, and material removal strategies, thereby reducing fabrication time while maintaining manageable system complexity through software automation.
3Loss of time
If fewer cutting tools are used, then tool change time is reduced, but manufacturing precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the subtractive fabrication process to use a limited set of multi-functional cutting tools that can perform multiple operations. The automated toolpath generation system optimizes the use of these universal tools by carefully planning toolpaths that allow each tool to complete multiple tasks, thereby reducing tool changes while maintaining manufacturing precision through algorithmic optimization of cutting parameters and sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for facilitating part fabrication, such as by automated toolpath generation, can include one or more of: receiving a virtual part; modifying the virtual part; and/or determining toolpaths to fabricate the target part. The toolpaths preferably define an ordered series of additive and subtractive toolpaths, more preferably wherein the additive and subtractive toolpaths are interleaved, which can function to achieve high manufacturing efficiency and/or performance. The method can additionally or alternatively include: generating machine instructions based on the toolpaths; fabricating the target part based on the machine instructions; calibrating the fabrication system; and/or any other suitable elements.