Characterizing the Vibro-acoustic Signals of Electromechanical Transmissions for Online Monitoring 3D Printing Process of FDM

Currently, the 3D printing process is characterized by a prolonged printing time, unstable printing quality, and susceptibility to a variety of disruptions. Consequently, it is necessary to propose a method of condition monitoring during the 3D printing process to assure the stable quality of the printed model and to replace operators’ constant observation during the 3D printing process. Since fused deposition modelling (FDM) is one of the most widely used 3D printing techniques, this research focuses on the relationship between the printing process of FDM and vibro-acoustic signals from the electromechanical transmission system, improves coupled equations to illustrate the relationship between the printing velocity and step motor frequencies based on the electromechanical transmission kinematics, and develops an online condition monitoring method as a result. Based on theoretical analysis and data processing, the enhanced coupled equations are proposed to initiate the research. Afterwards, the coupled equations have been validated through experimentation. Lastly, this research investigates whether the vibro-acoustic signal characteristics can be utilized for online monitoring of the FDM 3D printing process. Current studies indicate that vibration signals are more effective than acoustic signals for online condition monitoring of the FDM 3D printing process, and that the proposed technique can be used to effectively monitor the 3D printing process.