Improving the Accuracy and Precision of the Fused Deposition Modelling Additive Manufacturing Technology

增材制造（AM）由于其几何自由度和多功能性而成为传统制造技术的有吸引力的替代方案。熔融沉积成型（FDM）是AM的一种相对低成本的形式，其能够通过逐层挤出产生复杂的特征，然而，其通常以质量差为特征。因此，本项目研究如何通过评估和修改其当前机制来提高FDM过程的尺寸，几何精度和重复性（精度）。这些机制包括通过挤出方法表征的长丝行为，一组设计规则，以减少零件设计中的错误，以及考虑到长丝水平行为的切片软件的修订。还设想对当前设备设置进行调整，例如喷嘴定位和对参数优化的实验研究，以阐明零件生成中的错误和不准确性。

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an attractive alternative to conventional manufacturing techniques due to its geometric freedom and versatility. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a relatively low cost form of AM, which is able to produce complex features via layer-by-layer extrusion, however, it is commonly characterised by poor quality. Thus, this project investigates how the dimensional, geometrical accuracy, and repeatability (precision) of the FDM process could be improved through the evaluation and modifications of its current mechanisms. These mechanisms include the filament behaviour characterised via the extrusion method, a set of design rules to reduce errors in part design, and revision of the slicing software that takes in to account the filament level behaviour. It is also envisaged that adjustments to the current equipment set-up, such as nozzle positioning and an experimental investigation into parameter optimisation will also be undertaken to elucidate errors and inaccuracies in part generation.