Design and implementation of FDM support automatic generation algorithm based on Matlab

In the process of rapid prototyping, the melt extrusion technique requires the addition of a support structure to the three-dimensional model. An automatic generation algorithm for 3D model support is designed through Matlab application program in this paper. Two angles were compared in this algorithm to identify the support area, one angle is the included angle between the normal direction of triangular facet in STL (Stereo Lithography) model and the direction of processing, the other is the printer critical angle. The supporting structure generated is maintained at a reasonable range and need to be optimized The algorithm is validated by the program developed by Matlab, and the results show that the model can be accurately and effectively supported.