[comp.lang.c] stereolithography and slicing

kchalas@guido.eng.clemson.edu (Kumar Chalasani) (09/03/90)

hi netters,
          I am looking for some information (any information) about
slicing as it relates to the stereolithography process of 3D systems'
SLA . Any thing at all that might lead to enlightenment in this matter
will be appreciated.
        Stereolithography : the process of building a part layer-by-layer
by curing these layers of photopolymer with UV laser.any kind of complex
part can be thus made. this layering is what is called *slicing *.
        Now slicing is done after tesselating the surfaces of the object
to be made (in the representation scheme ).The built_in slice program,
propiretary to 3D systems,does not perform very well when doing curved
surfaces or steep inclines.(the surface finish is less than best).
        I am attempting to develop some king of algorithm that will be able
to decide on a slice thickness depending on the curvature or incline.(the 
current system takes only one slice thickness and applies to the whole object
.It is possible to use very fine thickness throughout,but ,obvious problems
of time and cost get in the way ).
        
        If there is anyone out there working on a thing like this,please give mea few * pointers*.  I have a few ideas-like interpolation,,etc.but i need to
know more about the working of the current system before i can tell if these
can work.

     SO. I need : Info about the current sytems' working
                  Info about other methods,possible
                  References ...

Thank you. And please write to my adres,and not the net,if you can help it,
because i am a very irreg reader of the net.

-Kumar