Architectural scale modelling using stereolithography

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the applicability and effectiveness of Stereolithography rapid prototyping to the field of scale modelling for architectural design evaluation and demonstration purposes. Two scale models concerning a modern renovated track and field sports facility and a reconstructed ancient stadium are examined. Both models were constructed by assembling together resin parts fabricated with Stereolithography instead of milling, Critical issues encountered during the building phase of the two models are addressed and presented in detail. Comments are made on the CAD requirements of the parts geometry, on the part building and the post-processing phases as well as on the end achieved accuracy. Problems associated with the computational time, related to the 3-D solid modelling, and with the physical properties of the parts, are also discussed. The present Stereolithography methodology is compared to conventional model building techniques by investigating efficiency and productivity factors, quality matters and time requirements.