Using dexels to make hollow models for rapid prototyping

This paper presents a simple algorithm for hollowing out a solid CAD model. The algorithm employs voxel elements to do the bellowing. Instead of performing three-dimensional Boolean operations on the solid CAD model, one-dimensional Boolean operations between the ray representations of the model and voxel elements are carried out. The ray representation of the hollowed model in turn, produces the direct slice files as output to the rapid prototyping machine. In order to satisfy strength considerations, square and honeycomb structures are formed in the hollowed object. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.