DEVELOPMENT AND VERIFICATION OF A THERMAL MODEL FOR CURVED-LAYER LAMINATED OBJECT MANUFACTURING (LOM)

摘要

The initial framework for a thermal model of the Curved-layer Laminated Object Manufacturing (Curved LOM) process was developed. Curved LOM involves layer-by-layer lamination and cutting of sheet materials using a conformable heating pad and CO_2 laser, respectively. The process is used for direct fabrication of curved panels made from fiber composites, ceramics, or other advanced materials. The model was based on one-dimensional transient heat conduction. To simplify the initial model development, rectangular geometry and processing of flat sheets was assumed. This assumption will be reasonably valid for heat transfer in curved parts with shallow curvature. To verify the model, a monolithic ceramic part was built by using a hand-placed heating pad to laminate 20 layers of precut ceramic tape in a layer-by-layer cycle. Thermocouples were embedded in the part every fourth layer to record temperature during the process. The model prediction of the experimental data was quantitatively and quantitatively correct for most of the observed response. Further model refinements and additional capabilities will be pursued.