Polymer-Based Additive Manufacturing: Process Optimisation for Low-Cost Industrial Robotics Manufacture

Abstract

The robotics design process can be complex with potentially multiple design iterations. The use of 3D printing is ideal for rapid prototyping and has conventionally been utilised in concept development and for exploring different design parameters that are ultimately used to meet an intended application or routine. During the initial stage of a robot development, exploiting 3D printing can provide design freedom, customisation and sustainability and ultimately lead to direct cost benefits. Traditionally, robot specifications are selected on the basis of being able to deliver a specific task. However, a robot that can be specified by design parameters linked to a distinctive task can be developed quickly, inexpensively, and with little overall risk utilising a 3D printing process. Numerous factors are inevitably important for the design of industrial robots using polymer-based additive manufacturing. However, with an extensive range of new polymer-based additive manufacturing techniques and materials, these could provide significant benefits for future robotics design and development.

Impact crushing response of additively manufactured hybrid metal-composite structures—a state of the art review

“…The resin is stored in a tank (Vat) which is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light to turn the liquid layer into a solid. The object is created initially using any modelling software and then the printer uses digital light processing technology to project the model with the help of UV light onto the liquid photopolymers layer by layer [71][72][73]. The build platform will move downwards after every layer is formed.…”

An Adaptive Algorithm and Additively Manufactured Punch Used to Form Aluminum Sheet Metal Parts

“…The term “additive manufacturing” or “rapid prototyping” describes the manufacturing of parts by successively adding layer-to-layer material. This method allows for the production of components with ready-assembled static and mobile elements in a single manufacturing session [ 20 , 21 , 22 ].…”

“…The materials used in additive manufacturing include numerous polymers, metals (aluminum, steel, titanium, bronze, silver, gold), quartz, ceramics, and many composite materials [ 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 ].…”

Modern Dimensional Analysis Involved in Polymers Additive Manufacturing Optimization

“…Comparisons are made with other technologies such as injection molding or the use of cutting machines. There is very wide use of the method, and achievements in the field of electronics, aerospace engineering and biomedical engineering are highlighted [ 49 , 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 ]. Important benefits and limitations are identified to clarify and motivate future work in this area [ 54 , 55 ].…”