Three-dimensional Printing of Product Design ModelsUsing Continuous-fiber-reinforced Composites

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has the main advantages of a high material utilization rate, diversified design, rapid prototyping, the ability to form complex products, high printing speed, and high quality of printed products. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology can rapidly generate models with different structural characteristics and then transform the models into actual products. In this study, considering the basic principles of FDM, we first analyzed the process flow and the factors affecting 3D printing. The principle of separating the model and adding support was discussed. Next, the types of support of the model were classified. Finally, the process integrity of different models was studied using examples, and an optimal design scheme for different types of support was proposed. The rapid development of 3D printing technology is expected to realize the effective manufacturing of composite structures with complex geometric shapes, thus further expanding the application range of composite materials. Therefore, in this study, from the perspective of mechanical properties, we analyzed the research status of 3D printing using continuous-fiber-reinforced composites (CFRCs) and performed tests in terms of bending properties. The results show that, on the one hand, adding different types of support can improve the forming process and quality of the products. On the other hand, the effects of bending properties on the mechanical properties and damage evolution law of 3D-printed CFRC products were obtained under typical loads, and a strength/stiffness analysis and a prediction method were used to determine the main factors that affected the mechanical properties.