Topology and Size Optimization of a Gantry-type Industrial 3D Printer’s Beam

This paper aims at the influence of vibration of a gantry-type industrial 3D printer’s beam on the precision of the printed parts. On this basis, a method based on topology optimization and size optimization is proposed to improved the beam structure. By establishing the equivalent dynamic model of the beam, the natural frequencies and mode shapes are solved and verified by the harmonic response test, with the beam’s vibration obtained in X, Y and Z directions. Through the acceleration test, the impact of the vibration of the 3D printer on the printing accuracy is analyzed under typical conditions. The results show that the natural frequency and harmonic response performance of the optimized beam is greatly improved with better stiffness in operation.