3D Modeling Nozzle Calibration for Dimensional Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-dimensional modeling devices face challenges in achieving high dimensional accuracy due to misalignment between supporting and modeling nozzles, leading to deformation of modeling layers or inadequate support, especially when multiple nozzles are involved.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional modeling device with first and second ejection sections, a drive section, and a control section that executes a calibration process to adjust the relative position of the second ejection section based on the positions of shaped portions, ensuring precise alignment through repeated calibration steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple nozzles are used for three-dimensional modeling, then productivity is improved through parallel material ejection, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to misalignment between nozzles causing modeling layer deformation or inadequate support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary calibration process that determines correction values for each nozzle's position before actual three-dimensional modeling begins. This preliminary action compensates for manufacturing tolerances and assembly variations, ensuring that all nozzles are properly aligned. The calibration data is stored and used during subsequent modeling operations, allowing the system to maintain high dimensional accuracy while utilizing multiple nozzles for improved productivity.
2Device complexity
If nozzle positions are fixed without calibration, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to uncorrected misalignment between nozzles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment mechanisms with a computational calibration system. Instead of using adjustable mechanical components or precision mechanical assemblies to ensure nozzle alignment, the system uses software-based calibration that measures actual nozzle positions and calculates correction values. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving alignment accuracy through digital correction of positional deviations.
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional modeling device includes a first ejection section configured to eject a first material, a second ejection section configured to eject a second material, a drive section configured to move each of the first ejection section and the second ejection section relatively to a stage, and a control section. The control section executes a calibration process including a first process of ejecting the first material from the first ejection section to thereby shape a first portion and a second portion shaped like straight lines arranged in parallel to each other in the calibrating shaped article, a second process of ejecting the second material from the second ejection section to thereby shape a third portion shaped like a straight line arranged between the first portion and the second portion in the calibrating shaped article, and a third process of adjusting a relative position of the second ejection section to the first ejection section in accordance with a correction value obtained based on relative positions of the third portion to the first portion and the second portion, and the control section executes the first process and the second process once again when the third process is executed in the calibration process.