What is the role of a support structure in additive manufacturing?

A support structure in additive manufacturing plays a crucial role in ensuring the successful and accurate printing of complex geometries. Its primary function is to provide scaffolding during the printing process, particularly for overhangs or intricate features that require additional support to maintain their shape and orientation. Without these structures, the printed material may sag or collapse, leading to defects in the final product.

The support structures are removed after the printing is complete, allowing for the finished part to display its intended design and functionality. This support can be temporary, designed to be detached easily post-printing, ensuring that it serves its purpose during production without affecting the integrity of the final part.

The other options suggest roles that support structures do not serve. For example, while aesthetic enhancement may occur as a byproduct of careful support design, it is not their primary purpose. Similarly, supports do not inherently reduce the weight of the part or eliminate the need for post-processing; instead, they are often removed after the print is completed, and some post-processing may still be necessary to achieve the desired surface finish or detail.