3D Printed Part Surface Smoothing With Bio-Based Solvent Vapor
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D printing methods produce molded parts with rough surfaces that are difficult to smooth without altering their geometry, especially for flexible parts and areas with undercuts or complex structures, and existing chemical solvents are environmentally harmful.
Innovation Solution
Using halogen-free, non-polar hydrocarbons and bio-based solvents applied in vaporous form under reduced pressure to treat the surface of molded parts, allowing for homogeneous smoothing without significant geometric changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If mechanical surface processing (abraded and/or blasted) is used to smooth the surface, then surface smoothness is improved, but material is removed from the surface which changes the geometry of the molded part
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical surface processing methods (abrasion, blasting) with a chemical vapor deposition process. The solvent vapor penetrates the porous structure and dissolves surface irregularities chemically, achieving smoothing without mechanical material removal that would alter the part's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the solvent from liquid to vapor phase, allowing it to penetrate the porous structure more effectively. The vapor phase enables the solvent to reach deep into pores and dissolve surface irregularities uniformly without the contact pressure and material removal associated with mechanical methods.
2Manufacturing precision
If mechanical grinding is used to smooth the surface, then surface smoothness is improved, but small corners and small recesses remain unprocessed and are therefore not smoothed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses solvent vapor (a gas phase medium) that can flow and penetrate into small corners, recesses, and complex geometries that are inaccessible to mechanical grinding tools. The vapor uniformly distributes throughout the porous structure, ensuring all surfaces including hard-to-reach areas are smoothed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the porous structure of the 3D printed part by using solvent vapor that can penetrate through and into the pores. The vapor phase allows the solvent to reach deep within the porous network and dissolve surface irregularities throughout the entire accessible surface area, including small corners and recesses.
3Manufacturing precision
If halogenated solvents are used for chemical smoothing, then surface smoothness is improved, but environmental compatibility deteriorates due to bio-persistence and negative health impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the solvent from halogenated compounds to halogen-free compounds. This substitution maintains the solvent's ability to dissolve and smooth the polymer surface while eliminating the harmful environmental and health effects associated with halogenated solvents, achieving both smoothing and eco-friendliness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Achieves eco-friendly and efficient surface smoothing of 3D printed parts, ensuring homogeneous treatment even in complex geometries, while minimizing material loss and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
the solvent is evaporated into the interior or is introduced as a steam into the interior upon being introduced, said solvent steam condensing on the surface of the molded part
Implementation Method 2
the surface is partially dissolved using a solvent
Implementation Method 3
the solvent is evaporated into the interior or is introduced as a steam into the interior upon being introduced
Implementation Method 4
a solvent selected from the group consisting of halogen-free and non-polar hydrocarbons and derivatives thereof and/or a solvent selected from the group consisting of bio-based solvents is applied to the surface of the molded part
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for treating a surface of a molded part produced according to a 3D printing method using a plastics material. A solvent is selected from the group consisting of halogen-free and non-polar hydrocarbons and derivatives thereof and/or a solvent selected from the group consisting of bio-based solvents and is applied to the surface of the molded part. A device is for treating a surface according to the method described.