An algorithm of global path planning applied for rapid prototyping

This paper presents an algorithm to develop a path planning applied for the rapid prototyping. Filling the layer region completely is the key to product accuracy of the part, which is depending on path planning. It can improve the effective of the scanning speed during prototyping. It divides three steps. First of all, it uses the zigzag technology to plan the scanning path, then links the different path on the same layer based on kd-tree technology and links pathes on the different layer at last. In order to diminish the deformation and shrinkage during the process prototyping, it uses the reversed orientation in the different layer. The correctness of the algorithm is verified by experiment. Compared with the rest algorithm, it is more rapid and accurate. © (2013) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland