Additive manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized product development through the use of innovative motion control systems. These are critical because they enable precise and coordinated movement of components, resulting in highly accurate and dimensionally stable printed parts.
In AM, layer-by-layer deposition or selective laser sintering/melting requires precise control of the movement of the build platform, print head or laser. The accuracy of these movements directly affects the final dimensional accuracy and quality of the printed parts. With the right motion control systems, manufacturers can achieve tight tolerances and ensure that each layer is accurately positioned and aligned, resulting in precise geometries and dimensional accuracy.
“Furthermore, precise motion control systems play a crucial role in minimizing errors, defects, and inconsistencies in the AM process”, says President of ALIO Industries Bill Hennessey. “Any deviations or inaccuracies in the motion can lead to misalignment, overextrusion, or insufficient material deposition, compromising the integrity and quality of the printed parts. High-end motion control systems offer advanced feedback mechanisms, such as encoders or sensors, that provide real-time position feedback to the control system. This feedback enables closed-loop control, allowing for immediate adjustments and corrections during the printing process, thereby ensuring accurate and consistent deposition of material layer by layer.”
As AM evolves from prototype to production technology, the importance of precise motion control becomes even more apparent. In production applications, speed becomes key. Precise motion control enables optimized path planning, reduces unnecessary motion and accelerates deposition rates, resulting in higher throughput and cost efficiency.
Hennessey concludes, “ALIO Industries serves as a crucial one-stop-shop for all positioning requirements in AM applications, offering a comprehensive range of motion solutions. Our diverse portfolio, including XY-stages, 6D Hybrid Hexapods, gantries, and fully assembled motion solutions, caters to the varied needs of AM practitioners, simplifying the selection and integration process. By providing a single source for positioning components, ALIO streamlines procurement, ensures compatibility, and facilitates technical support, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency and reliability for AM system developers and operators.”
Find out more about ALIO Industries at alioindustries.com.
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