Abstract:
3D printer technology has been increasingly applied in
architecture and design due to its ability to streamline the model
production process, making it more efficient compared to traditional
methods. In conventional woodworking, joints are primarily assembled
by modifying wood edges and ends to fit together, reinforced with
mortise and tenon joints, nails, or screws. The strength and durability of
furniture depend on several key factors, including craftsmanship, wood
selection, structural type, and the choice of joints [1]. In contrast, 3D
printing revolutionizes the manufacturing process by utilizing software
tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Rhinoceros before massproducing
components through Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
[2]. This study focuses on the Fused Filament Fabrication (FDM) 3D
printing method, which involves melting plastic filament through a
heated nozzle onto a controlled printing platform. FDM printers are costeffective,
suitable for simple designs, and easy to maintain.
This research investigates three-way joints for modular
furniture, specifically for shelving units and stools. It examines the
impact of internal structural factors (Infill patterns) on joint strength.
Additionally, PETG filament was selected due to its high toughness,
flexibility, durability, and ease of shaping. Other critical variables
include printing time and load-bearing capacity. High-density infill
patterns (above 40%) require significantly longer printing times, and
depending on the pattern design, they may increase weight unnecessarily,
exceeding the required strength based on the TIS 1015 standard [3],
which specifies a load capacity of 1250 N. The study experimented with three infill patterns: Gyroid,
Honeycomb and Rectilinear at densities of 10%, 20%, and 30%, resulting
in a total of nine test samples. A High-Capacity Universal Testing
Machine was used for material testing. The results showed that the
Gyroid 30% pattern exhibited the highest compressive strength (Load:
0.57 kN) with a printing time of 6 h 28 m. Meanwhile, among the 10%
infill patterns, the Honeycomb 10% performed best (Load: 0.44 kN) with
a printing time of 5 h 9 m. This research establishes a foundational
prototype for three-way joints, paving the way for future studies to
develop alternative joint designs that reduce material usage, minimize
weight, and shorten printing time while maintaining furniture strength in
accordance with industry standards