3D Printed Image Protection via Selective Leveling and Transparent Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-dimensional printed images on the surface of objects are susceptible to damage during and after the printing process, as existing technologies do not adequately protect these images.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional object printer system that includes a controller operating multiple ejectors to form a two-dimensional image on a surface, using a build material, a marking agent, and a transparent material, with a leveler applied only to the build material and transparent layers, not the image itself, to create a protective layer without damaging the printed image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a leveler is applied to smooth the surface of three-dimensional printed layers, then the surface quality and flatness are improved, but the printed image on the surface is damaged or distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the surface treatment process into two distinct stages: (1) applying the leveler to build material layers before printing the image, and (2) applying a separate transparent protective coating after printing the image. This segmentation allows the leveler to smooth the substrate without contacting or damaging the printed image, while the transparent coating provides post-printing surface protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The leveler is applied in advance to the build material layers before the printed image is deposited. This preliminary surface preparation creates a smooth substrate for optimal image adhesion and quality, eliminating the need to apply the leveler after printing which would damage the image.
2Reliability
If a transparent protective layer is applied over the printed image, then the image durability and protection are improved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a protective coating for the printed image, provides an additional smooth surface layer, and can be integrated into the existing layer-by-layer printing process. This multi-functionality justifies the added step by delivering multiple benefits from a single material application.
3Reliability
If the leveler is applied only to build material and transparent layers without applying to the printed image, then the image is protected from damage, but the processing time increases due to additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The printing process continues uninterrupted with the transparent material being deposited over the printed image in the same layer-by-layer sequence. The leveler is applied continuously to each transparent layer immediately after deposition, maintaining continuous surface treatment without stopping the printing operation, thereby minimizing additional processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of forming a three-dimensional printed object having a printed surface image includes ejecting drops of a build material to form the three-dimensional printed object with a plurality of layers of build material and at least one layer of a transparent material. The method operates ejectors to form a printed image with a marking agent so the printed image can be viewed through the at least one transparent layer. A leveler is applied to a surface of the layer of transparent material but not to the printed image.