Machine learning technology has become an integral part of many different design processes. Many entrepreneurs use machine learning to improve logo designs. However, there are a lot of other benefits as well. One of the areas where machine learning has proven particularly useful has been with 3D printing.
3D Printing is Crucial for Cost Optimization in 3D Printing
Earlier this year, Springer published a study on the role of machine learning in the 3D printing process. This study covered a lot of issues, but one of them was the importance of using AI to control costs.
3D printing has become a requirement for all industries today. This has made cost a primary factor during production. You will maximize the return on investment once you lower the 3D printing costs. You have to utilize machine learning to its full effectiveness if you want to keep costs in line.
One advantage of 3D printing is that it is a cost-effective way to create parts and prototypes. Some tips you can use to lower the cost are considering the cost of materials.
How Can You Use Machine Learning to Control Costs Better?
It is possible to lower the costs while using 3D printing by using machine learning technology. The below strategies will help you have a lower price and better quality. 3D printed parts also have many more advantages than you can imagine.
1. Optimize the Design
Machine learning technology can be very useful in the design process. You can conceptualize thousands of different design iterations with AI technology before settling on the right one.
A successful print is determined by your design in 3D printing. You will save costs by having an excellent plan, and it also keeps you free from failures when printing. This gives you a higher success rate.
One strategy that will help you lower the cost while designing is by getting rid of all support rafts. Some projects need a support structure, but you will save a lot by eliminating them.
You can also ensure you have the correct supports by testing your designed part. You can also separate these parts into two and assemble them later as another option. Rafts are used to prevent warping by use of the FDM.
It would also help to shun sharp corners because they can cause residual stress. This, in turn, causes defective parts. A proper 3D software will let you explore challenging shapes that help to lower the cost.
2. Use the Correct Materials
There are many options to use in 3D printing. Examples of these materials are made for additive manufacturing. However, some materials are more expensive than others because of their different properties. It is advisable to acknowledge the types of materials you want to use to save on cost.
Thermostatic filaments are examples of the cheapest materials you can use during prototyping. However, it will help to use high-quality metals when designing demanding applications. This should be the case when creating aircraft objects.
You can also use some high-quality thermoplastics that are still cost-effective. Examples of these metals are PEEK.
Machine learning can be helpful in this regard as well. You can use AI tools to anticipate the reactions of different materials and make sure they are properly pared with each other.
3. Outsource
It does not matter if you want to create your 3D objects or outsource them; an internal system will have an impact. Your business will have more effect to run in the end if you invest in all your operations. This will work only if your business needs you to prototype often.
Industrial machines need an investment upfront, but you should mediate the cost at the end. There are many cheap options available in the market, but they depend on your preference. It is also advisable to take advantage of making use of the high expertise level when outsourcing.
You can also use machine learning to help with your outsourcing model. This will help you identify different service providers, so you can choose the right ones.
4. Consider Lightweighting
There are several ways you can make use of the material needed during production. With FDM, you can change the percentage to reduce material costs. This makes the printing process fast. You can also use specific infill patterns; suppose you do not need to use a substantial part.
You can also achieve this in most 3D processes with the use of improved tools like generative design. These tools operate on algorithms, and they optimize material distribution. This lets you make parts that have the original strength.
5. Use Hollow Parts
3D printing cost is significantly determined by the material amount you use. It is advisable to use hollow parts if you do not need substantial parts. This, in turn, lowers the material in use and the production cost at large.
The hallowing process will ensure the interior part is empty. You can achieve this using modeling software. Remember to include holes in your design when you use this option to remove the material quickly.
You must also keep the needed thickness to ensure your part has a solid structure. Machine learning can help improve the hollowing process as well.
6. Automate the Production
You should make sure your process is reliable for it to be cost-effective. Automation is the solution here. and it is highly dependent on AI and machine learning algorithms It is possible to automate this process for the most effect. Here, you can use the management software to achieve this.
It lowers the production cost by getting rid of manual labor and makes the process efficient. This software also has analysis tools that spot any issues and repair them with ease. This makes them ready for production.
7. Use the Correct Process
The various 3D printing procedures have different price points. This means you should pick a process that lies within your budget to ensure you minimize costs. Binder jetting is the best option when 3D printing.
It causes a short manufacturing lead time.
Machine Learning is Crucial for Improving the Cost-Effectiveness of 3D Printing
Machine learning is very useful in many businesses. One of the areas where machine learning has become useful is 3D printing. 3D printing has become more popular over the last few years. You can use the above strategies to lower your printing cost and get quality results.
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