[Paper] An Optimal Model Subdivision Method for 3D FDM Printers

Abstract

Although FDM 3D printers have been getting popular, it is still difficult for novice users to determine basic parameters such as deposition directions and model subdivision. This paper describes an optimization method that determines the optimal model subdivision and deposition direction. The cost function is based on the supporting structure volume and the number of regions to adhere, which can be computed from multi-layered depth maps on GPU. The optimization can be efficiently achieved by the dynamic programing. Experiments showed that the method can improve object surface smoothness and reduce working time of support removal.