Applying systems engineering principles to develop an open source laser based metal powder bed fusion system

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: Conventional powder bed fusion systems, with their high costs, proprietary nature and restrictive fees, limit research opportunities. This study aims to unveil an affordable, open-source hardware, open-source software laser-based metal powder bed fusion system. Recognizing the distinction between DIY and open-source hardware is crucial for widespread acceptance. Design/methodology/approach: The authors present a comprehensive system architecture using object process methodology for functions and architecture, a design structure matrix to model system dependencies and classical technical drawing exploded views for select subsystems. Modularization enables high adaptability, fostering potential adoption. Findings: The fully open system enables unrestricted research, mirroring common industrial metal laser-based powder bed fusion (L-PBF) systems. While “open” systems are available for purchase, they remain closed-source, lacking source code and technical drawings sharing, hindering contribution and co-development. The authors’ is the pioneering and sole open-source metal L-PBF system, boasting 1,500+ print hours. A series of industrial and academic adopters are currently implementing the system. Originality/value: The open system, slicer software and controller offer unique process control, supporting multimaterial printing. The authors shared the design on the OpenAM GitHub page under the CERN-OHL-P v2 Open Source Hardware license. While it is functional for additive manufacturing (e.g. aluminum, tool steel, titanium and stainless steel), the entire process chain is actively evolving, ideal for co-development with the additive manufacturing community.
Original languageEnglish
JournalRapid Prototyping Journal
ISSN1355-2546
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • Additive manufacturing
  • Laser powder bed fusion
  • Open architecture
  • Open-source hardware
  • System design
  • Systems engineering

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