Currently the use of robotic technology is more frequently used, even the artistic field is integrating it with greater force in art projects, especially the concept of 3D printing or additive manufacturing.
This type of technology is used continuously in the manufacture of small batches or in the design of products with intricate shapes that are not easily imitated. This requires a machine tool and a process that includes geometry, where it is divided into a succession of trajectories that precisely and safely stack the material in layers.
Therefore, in terms of the type of movement (constant acceleration and speed) 3D printing is usually a very precise control process. In industrial applications, materials will settle or melt in small quantities. Therefore, as in CNC machining, the machine works logically and numerically.
This is how the Center for Fine Printing Research (CFPR) at the University of the West of England experimented with a six-axis Mitsubishi Electric MELFA RV-Series to create 3D printed shapes with a broader view of CAD models and processing algorithms. cut.
The six-axis Mitsubishi robotic arm is designed for flexible use. the range of motion of approximately 36 inches, extended functions and the use of pneumatic systems. They are the main feature of the robotic tool. Mitsubishi Electric robots have proven to be an ideal tool to help create works of art using PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable plant thermoplastic used in 3D printers.
As a result, designs of fine and harmonious shapes are created where the attributes of the object such as translucency are seen. 3D printing had a controlled process of great precision, in the concept of the type of movement and when depositing the material. Printing methods can be developed from the point of view of how the artist manages to express something with the material. The use of the Mitsubishi MELFA RV-7FLM robot achieved a dynamic process when investigating techniques to detect and manipulate materials.
The MELFA RV-7FLM robot can realize real-time control and provide a reliable programming interface to achieve this purpose. It also has a longer reach and active area, which can be used for compact robotic arms.
The idea of using this robotic model was to change the perspective in the investigation of the technology of sensing and manipulating materials in a dynamic way, instead of storing materials in a fixed way. The robot runs a proprietary software-defined print path and requires a high degree of automation and real-time response capabilities.
The research group used all the functions of the robot to take the material out of its frequent operating field and create new purposes.
With the programming interface and software developed by the university team you can change the deposition rate to convert the material into filaments. And achieve that it is applied in works of art with resins and ceramics.