Title:
Extrusion-based 3D-Printing of Channel Networks with Cementitious Materials
Author(s):
Lara Tomholt
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_F24_LaraTomholt.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
11/3/2024
Abstract:
Internal cavities or channels have the potential to enhance a component’s insulation capacity, allow for fluid transport and heat exchange, and/or reduce material use without structural disadvantages. However, extrusion-based 3D-printing of built-in cavities or channels with cementitious materials has remained challenging due to the lack of support materials and slicing algorithms that exclusively generate layered toolpaths parallel to build plate. The research proposes the use of angled planar toolpaths to 3D-print stable mm-scale channels with cement paste. Our new parametric modeling script (Grasshopper, Rhinoceros) offers an accessible, high-throughput workflow that models complex channel networks and filaments, identifies filament overhangs and optimizes the toolpath angle. The opportunities provided by angled planar toolpaths and our parametric workflow were demonstrated by 3D-printing complex 2D channel networks inspired by biological vascular systems.