Abstract
The STL (STereoLithography) file format, as developed by 3D Systems, has been widely used by most Rapid Prototyping (RP) systems and is supported by all major computer-aided design (CAD) systems. However, it is necessary to improve the STL format to meet the development needs of RP technologies. In Part 1, several existing and proposed formats have been discussed. This paper, Part 2, will present an improved interface between CAD and RP systems. The new interface is a file format that supports the STL format, removes redundant information in the STL format and adds topological information to balance storage and processing cost. In addition to supporting facet boundary models, the new interface supports precise models by using the edge-based boundary representation. This paper discusses the design considerations of the new interface and data structures for both facet models and precise models. Finally, a comparison of the new interface and the STL file format will be made.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
“3D Systems Inc.”,Stereolithography Interface Specification, 3D Systems Inc., Valencia, CA, June 1988.
K. F. Leong, C. K. Chua and Y. M. Ng, “A study of stereolithography file errors and repair. Part 1. Generic solution”,International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 12, pp. 407–414, 1996.
K. F. Leong, C. K. Chua and Y. M. Ng, “A study of stereolithography file errors and repair. Part 2. Special cases”,International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 12, pp. 415–422, 1996.
T. Wohlers, “CAD meets rapid prototyping”,Computer Aided Engineering, pp. 66–74, April 1992.
K. Weiler, “Edge-based data structures for solid modelling in curved-surface environments”,IEEE Computer Graphics and Application,5(1), pp. 21–40, 1985.
M. K. Agoston,Algebraic Topology, Marcel Dekker, New York, 1976.
C. F. Kirschman and C. C. Jara-Almonte, “A parallel slicing algorithm for solid freeform fabrication process”,Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, pp. 26–33, 1992.
M. Tong,The Interface between CAD and 3D Layer Manufacturing Systems, Master thesis, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 1996.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Kai, C.C., Jacob, G.G.K. & Mei, T. Interface between CAD and Rapid Prototyping systems. Part 2: LMI — An improved interface. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 13, 571–576 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01176301
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01176301