Practice Summary: Multilaser Load Balancing in Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing is a fast-growing printing technology that uses design data to build parts in controlled three-dimensional process space. In a particular type of additive manufacturing called powder-based melting, multiple laser systems work in parallel to build parts. We developed an optimization algorithm to balance the load between the lasers to increase machine throughput and minimize build time while ensuring that lasers are not occluded by the smoke generated by other lasers. We implemented, tested, and delivered the algorithm to the GE Concept Laser software team. The algorithm is scheduled to be integrated into the GE Concept Laser M-line System, a state-of-the-art additive manufacturing printer sold by GE.