A pilot study to assess an in-process inspection method for small diameter holes produced by direct metal laser sintering

What is it about?

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the geometric quality of small diameter holes in parts printed by DMLS technology. An in-process optical inspection method was proposed and assessed during a pilot study. The influence of the theoretical hole diameter assumed in a CAD system and the sample thickness (hole length) on the hole clearance was analysed. The analysis of the geometric quality of the holes in parts printed by DMLS was based on the computer analysis of 2-D images. Developed functions can be used by designers for a proper assignment of a hole diameter to achieve the required patency.

Featured Image