This was an interesting problem to work on (back in 2017): A visualization of a path planner for 3D printing (FDM) a single layer/mesh structure of a multi-layer textile. Two setups of the same path strategy which optimized for longest continuous sub-paths and minimum rapids (distance without filament extrusion) between sub-paths. The planner supported six strategies in total, incl. optimizing for straight sub-paths and minimum amounts of "recent" crossings (to allow filament to cool down prior to crossing existing sub-paths)...

Submitted here for #genuary18: Unexpected path. Draw a route that changes direction based on one very simple rule.

#genuary2026 #PathPlanning #ThingUmbrella #Geometry #Mesh #3DP #Textile

This was an interesting problem to work on (back in 2017): A visualization of a path planner for 3D printing (FDM) a single layer/mesh structure of a multi-layer textile. Two setups of the same path strategy which optimized for longest continuous sub-paths and minimum rapids (distance without filament extrusion) between sub-paths. The planner supported six strategies in total, incl. optimizing for straight sub-paths and minimum amounts of "recent" crossings (to allow filament to cool down prior to crossing existing sub-paths)...

Submitted here for #genuary18: Unexpected path. Draw a route that changes direction based on one very simple rule.

#genuary2026 #PathPlanning #ThingUmbrella #Geometry #Mesh #3DP #Textile