Pythagorean-hodograph curve-based support structures in additive manufacturing

This study addresses the challenge of generating efficient and precise supports in additive manufacturing (AM), where traditional support structures often cause excessive material usage, poor bridging, and vibrations. We present a novel framework using Pythagorean Hodograph (PH) curves, which offer smooth geometry transitions and favorable offset properties, promoting uniform support spacing and reducing machine vibrations. We propose two distinct PH-based support design schemes (PHs and O-PHs) integrated with a Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP)-based print sequencing algorithm. Results demonstrate that both PHs and O-PHs improve geometric accuracy, minimize bridging effects, and reduce print times, highlighting the practical advantages of PH-based supports in AM.