PySLM - Python Library for Selective Laser Melting and Additive Manufacturing

Parry, Luke

Abstract

PySLM is a Python library for supporting development of input files used in Additive Manufacturing or 3D Printing, in particular Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) platforms typically used in both academia and industry. The core capabilities aim to include slicing, hatching and support generation and providing an interface to the binary build file formats available for platforms. The library is built of core classes which may provide the basic functionality to generate the scan vectors used on systems and also be used as building blocks to prototype and develop new algorithms.

This library provides design tools for use in Additive Manufacturing including the slicing, hatching, support generation and related analysis tools (e.g. overhang analysis, build-time estimation).

PySLM is built-upon python libraries Trimesh and based on some custom modifications to the PyClipper libraries, which are leveraged to provide the slicing and manipulation of polygons, such as offsetting and clipping of lines.

The aims of this library is to provide a useful set of tools for prototyping novel pre-processing approaches to aid research and development of Additive Manufacturing processes, amongst an academic environment. The tools aim to compliment experimental and analytical studies that can enrich scientific understanding of the process. This includes data-fusion from expeirments and sensors within the process but also enahcning the capability of the process by providing greater control over the process. Furthermore, the open nature of the library intends to inform and educate those interested in the underlying algorithms of preparing toolpaths in Additive Manufacturing.

• Digital Artefact Type: Software
• Deposit Date: Apr 22, 2023
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/19887230