Direct slicing from PowerSHAPE models for rapid prototyping

Rapid prototyping processes produce parts layer by layer directly from CAD models. An efficient method is required to slice the geometric model of a part into layers. Several slicing methods are introduced in this paper: slicing from STL files; tolerate-errors slicing; adaptive slicing; direct slicing; adaptive and direct slicing. PowerSHAPE is a powerful package for building models, and it provided macro language and picture files for its secondary development work. To meet rapid prototyping slicing demands, the author proposes a direct slicing approach based on PowerSHAPE models. In this method, lines, arcs and Bezier curves are used to describe the section contours. This approach can be used in stereolithography, selective laser sintering, fused deposition modelling, and other rapid prototyping processes, e.g. laminated object manufacturing. It may be the future solution to existing slicing problems.