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Rapid
Prototyping Processes
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Rapid Prototyping -- Laminated
Object Manufacturing - LOM
The LOM process builds
layered, three-dimensional objects by
stacking and fusing thin layers of paper
that are trimmed to shape using a CO2
Laser. Essential to this process are
software algorithms that slice a CAD
file into cross sectional layers and
coordinate this information with system
hardware. The building sequence begins
with the lamination of a fresh layer
of adhesive paper to a solid base. Lamination
is accomplished with a heated, stainless
steel roller.
Next, the laser cuts
the part boundary contained within the
first cross section, cutting only one
layer deep. Second, the laser cuts the
excess material in a crosshatch pattern.
The excess material is not removed so
as to provide support for subsequent
layers. Next, an overall rectangular
outline is cut, freeing the cross section
from the paper roll. The platform then
moves down and the feed paper advances.
The sequence repeats when the platform
returns to the paper level. The process
continues, layer by layer, until all
of the cross sections have been deposited
and cut.
The product comes out
of the machine as a rectangular block.
The excess material surrounding the
part has already been sectioned into
crosshatched columns which are removed
manually at the end of the process.
The final LOM parts exhibit a wood-like
appearance, are dimensionally stable,
and can be finished by sanding or sealing
if necessary.
