This paper presents a methodology to find the optimum build orientation in the additive manufacturing of topologically optimized structural parts. The outlined methodology is based on applying a differential operator to the density distribution matrix of a topologically optimized design. The methodology is developed for 2D parts, where the profile of the geometry is constant. The 2D spatial difference operator effectively calculates the elemental density gradient vector, ultimately used to calculate the angles between i) overhanging surfaces of a topology optimized design, and ii) the build platform of a 3D printer. These angles, referred to as build angles, are used to estimate the relative amount of supporting structure required to print the design at a prescribed part orientation. This methodology can potentially be adopted to simulate the additive manufacturing surface quality of density based, structural topology optimization designs.
A model for burden distribution and gas flow distribution of bell-less top blast furnace with parallel hoppers
