A new database approach to improve STL files correction algorithms

A STL file format contains a series of triangles representing the surface model of the part that are being made by Free Form Fabrication technologies. However, recently this file format is being used to interrogate and transfer data between different CAD/ CAM /CAE systems. There are many inherent defects associated with STL files, such as gaps, incorrect normal vectors, overlapping facet, non-manifold facets that requires correction. Numbers of algorithms have been developed for these purposes. In this paper an attempt is made to store the STL file data in a SQL based RDBMS. By using RDBMS’ features such as indexing, coding and other capabilities and services it would be possible to speeds up data retrieval and manipulation that in turn will result in a more efficient algorithm compare with those that already established for correcting STL file shortcomings. It is also possible to develop a Client/Server architecture that could lead to suitable environment for Concurrent Engineering. Keyword: STL file, STL correction, rapid prototyping, RDBMS