Development of rapid prototyping slicing software based on STL model

An adaptive slicing algorithm based on stereo lithography (STL) model was proposed. The main principle is, firstly, reestablishing the topological information of STL model. Then the intersection points were calculated and sequenced by using intersection points´ tracking method and marking method. The slicing thickness was automatically controlled according to the area deviation ratio between two adjacent slices. Then the adaptive slicing process based on STL model was implemented. Based on the algorithms, a rapid prototyping slicing software STLSlicer based on STL model was developed. With real cases, it is demonstrated that the software runs stably with high efficiency and good reliability.