3D Printed Multi-Functional Objects Integrating Fluid Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fabrication processes for multi-functional objects, such as automobile seat cushions and fluidic connectors, are prohibitively expensive and require assembling multiple parts, making it difficult to achieve uniform temperature control and efficient fluid delivery.
Innovation Solution
A 3D printing apparatus that combines structural design and fluid channel data into a single output file, allowing for the design and fabrication of multi-functional objects with integrated lattice structures and fluid channels, reducing the need for multiple parts and enabling custom fitting within irregularly shaped cavities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts are assembled to achieve multi-functional objects, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functional parts into a single integrated multi-functional object that can be printed in one piece. The system merges structural components, fluid channels, and lattice structures into one unified design that eliminates the need for assembly of multiple separate parts, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal multi-functional object that can perform multiple functions simultaneously - providing structural support, fluid delivery, and customizable lattice structures all within a single printed component. This multi-functional design allows one object to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts are assembled to achieve multi-functional objects, then functional versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single print file that can be manufactured in one 3D printing operation. By combining structural design, fluid channel routing, and lattice structure parameters into one integrated digital model, the system eliminates the need for multiple manufacturing steps and assemblies, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining functional versatility.
3Temperature
If fluid channels are added to multi-functional objects, then temperature control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates fluid channel design directly into the multi-functional object's structural model. The system merges the fluid delivery network with the structural components and lattice structures, allowing temperature control functionality to be embedded within the object itself rather than requiring separate fluid delivery components, thereby improving temperature control without proportionally increasing device complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If custom lattice structures are integrated into multi-functional objects, then adaptability to irregular cavities is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different regions of the multi-functional object to have different lattice structures with varying densities, patterns, and mechanical properties. The system can customize lattice parameters locally to match specific cavity geometries and functional requirements, achieving high adaptability to irregular cavities while the 3D printing process maintains the necessary manufacturing precision for these complex local variations.
Data Source
AI summary
An example of an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes an input device to receive design data. The design data includes information about a geometry and load characteristics of an object. The apparatus further includes a structural design engine to generate print data to print the object on a three-dimensional printer based on the design data. The apparatus also includes a fluid design engine to generate fluidic data. The fluidic data represents a fluid channel within the object. In addition, the apparatus includes an output engine to generate an output file based on the print data and the fluidic data.