Mechanical filament path switch with parallel electrical switching
A mechanical filament path switch with a spring-actuated switching element addresses the need for simultaneous switching of filament paths and electronic control lines in 3D printers, providing a compact, cost-effective solution with easy integration and reliable operation.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025002531
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-11
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-08-31
AI Technical Summary
Existing 3D printing systems with multiple filament types or colors require separate multifilament systems for each printer, which are either costly, space-consuming, or lack simultaneous mechanical and electronic switching capabilities.
A mechanical filament path switch with a spring-actuated switching element that synchronously switches both the mechanical filament channel and associated electrical contacts, integrating both functions into a compact and cost-effective device.
Enables reliable, simultaneous switching of filament paths and electronic control lines with easy integration into existing systems, reducing costs and space requirements.
Smart Images
Figure 00000003_0000 
Figure 00000004_0000 
Figure 00000005_0000
Abstract
Description
1. Technical field
[0001] The invention relates to 3D printing technology, in particular a device for switching filament paths and electronics between two 3D printers and a multi-filament system. 2. State of the art
[0002] In additive manufacturing with 3D printers, systems with multiple filament types or colors are increasingly being used.
[0003] Currently, separate multifilament systems must be purchased for each 3D printer. Alternatively, these must be manually switched. However, these solutions are disadvantageous because they either require significant effort (acquisition costs, space requirements) or do not allow for simultaneous mechanical and electronic switching via a switch. 3. Object of the invention
[0004] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a device that allows reliable, compact and cost-effective switching of both the mechanical filament path and the electronic control lines. 4. Solution to the task
[0005] The task is solved by a mechanical filament path switch, in which a switching element held by a spring simultaneously switches the mechanical filament channel and the associated electrical contacts.
[0006] The mechanical and electronic switching are coupled and occur synchronously through the actuation of the switch. 5. Advantages of the invention • Reliable simultaneous switching of filament and electronics • Easy integration into existing 3D printing systems • Low manufacturing costs, especially due to 3D-printable components • Robust and compact design 6. Example of implementation
[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a housing with at least one filament inlet and two filament outlets.
[0008] A movable switching element is held in a starting position by a spring. List of designations
[0009] Fig. 1: ① Inlet (thread for PTFE coupling) 2, 3 Exit ④ Movable component 1, 2 PTFE hose coupling Fig. 2: ① Selector switch 2 Spring element ③ Bracket Switch ④ Moving component (see Fig. 1) Fig. 3: 1. Electrical Entrance 2, 3 Electrical output ④ Moving component (see Fig. 1) ⑤ Selector switch (bottom filament, rear electric switch) ⑥ Electrical switch bracket Fig. 4: 1 Switch ② 3×2 Molex (m) ③ 6PDT on on switch (mechanically coupled) ④ 3x2 Molex (w) A ⑤ 3×2 Molex (w) B
[0010] Solid line - connection to Molex (w) A Dashed line - connection to Molex (w) B Each of the 6 switching contacts is mechanically coupled (6PDT)
Claims
[1] Filament path switch for 3D printers, characterized by , that a switching element held by a spring simultaneously causes a mechanical switching of the filament path and an electronic switching of control lines. [2] Switch according to claim 1, characterized by , that the switching element is guided in a housing body with one filament input and two outputs. [3] Switch according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the electronic switching is carried out by a mechanically coupled contact block.