Parts Design and Manufacturing Process Support System Based on Stereolithography Manufacturing Knowledge Database

Although rapid prototyping technology has a strong point that complex parts can be manufactured easily, it is difficult to satisfy further higher precision if designer isn't familiar with the technological know-how of the manufacture. This research aims to develop a design support system for realizing higher precision of RP easily in consideration of manufacturing know-how. The function of this system is as follows: the knowledge of manufacturing know-how such as the preferred manufacturing direction for higher precision is stored in database. The complex shape of solid form is analyzed in the middle of design stage, and then preferred manufacturing processes or compositions are advised by this system.