Direct Dynamic Testing of Stereolithographic Models

摘要: Model testing has long been used to validate, augment, or replace structural analysis. Choice of the extent of model usage depends on the time, budget, and skills available, and upon the complexity of the structure and the consequences of the results. In particular, plastic models have seen significant usage in understanding the static and dynamic behavior of many different industrial structures. Today’s ability to generate scaled plastic models directly from 3D CAD geometry models via stereolithography (SLA) has opened a new chapter on model testing. SLA models are easily size-scaled and quickly produced, and some SLA polymers have mechanical properties that are well suited for dynamic testing. The use of SLA models makes possible early testing and accelerated test development work that can reduce costs and shrink the product development cycle. This paper describes the elements of using SLA plastic models for dynamic testing, including size and frequency scaling. Examples of SLA applications at Textron Lycoming for rap/shaker testing and for holography are discussed.