Ford Motor Company
Method of controlling warping in 3D printing

Abstract:

Systems and methods for controlling warping and/or curling in a 3D-printed component are disclosed. One method may include fabricating a component having one or more anchors attached thereto layer-by-layer via additive manufacturing. The component and anchor(s) may be formed of a first material. The method may also include fabricating a support structure to support portions of the component as it is fabricated. The support structure may at least partially enclose the anchor(s). The anchor(s) and the support structure may be removed from the component after it is fabricated. Each anchor may be the same size and shape, which may reduce design time and allow the same anchor design to be used across multiple components. The support structure enclosing the anchors may lock them into place and prevent the component from warping or curling, for example, due to expansion or contraction during cooling.