Open mold sdm
Basics
The Google doc linked to below contrive most of the explanation of what the concept currently stands at, and some speculation about the way forwards. I won't re write too much of it here.
Fundamentally, at an abstract level, we are pursuing the approach of A) producing very high quality molds. Any shape you can draw on the computer, almost. Smooth, highly accurate. Large or small. Thermal expansion coefficients that can be adjusted. Very, very nice molds. They can also be removed relatively easily, even from within deep holes etc.
You can see some diagrams and explanation in the Google doc for the proposed method of doing this.
Then, B) We need to implement a sort of super premium casting process. Or molding, which the same thing for plastic. Immediately, there are some two part polyurethanes which exhibit almost no volume change upon setting, and which are available with a wide range of good properties. We can fiber reinforce them for high strength. Some carbon reinforced plastics are as strong as some aluminum alloys.
In the future, carrying of metals at even am accuracy of itc-5 looks possible, through control of the cast composition, preheat, cooling gradients, loading of the liquid metal with powered metal, possibly ultrasonic exposures during cooling, confinement of the cast within a ceramic container to prevent cracking, computer compensation for distortion. Control over the rate of cooling and time spend in various zones. Control over the atmospheric gases and pressures, possibly vacuum.
Of course that sounds expensive and complex, but we are not talking about employing all of them at once. Just that they are all options.
Fundamentally, this process has a great deal of potential to make practical the production of a very wide range of highly useful objects. We can also expect results in the near term as there is no fundamental scientific advance needed.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Qe1XBAE0nd1joZSk4wnTRGI4HOWE_O_e7Fm0wHX-CZg/edit?usp=drivesdk
Right of the
See Also
- Open Source Digital Fabrication Construction Set
- Open Source Metallurgy Construction Set
- Precious Plastic
