3D Printer Gas Extraction Layout for Temperature and Fume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D printing technologies face challenges in temperature control and removal of by-products such as airborne particles, smoke, and fumes, which can lead to warpage, shrinkage, and curling of objects, and pose health risks to operators due to inadequate ventilation systems.
Innovation Solution
A gas extraction system with a primary and secondary conduit network, including flow control devices and a controller, that manages airflow and temperature within the 3D printing apparatus, decoupling it from site ventilation systems to ensure precise temperature control and safe removal of by-products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If an overhead heater is used to dynamically compensate for thermal fluctuations, then temperature control is improved, but the ability to actively cool the build bed surface is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The gas extraction system is divided into primary and secondary conduits with separate functions. The primary conduit handles general exhaust extraction while the secondary conduit specifically extracts hot air from the build bed area, allowing independent control of extraction flows to achieve both heating and cooling capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of gas extraction by using flow control devices to independently regulate the flow rates through primary and secondary conduits. By adjusting extraction flow rates, the system can control the cooling effect on the build bed while maintaining overall temperature stability
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a site extraction system with high flow rates is used, then by-product removal is improved, but temperature control in the working space becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction system is segmented into primary and secondary pathways. The primary conduit handles the majority of exhaust extraction for by-product removal, while the secondary conduit provides a controlled, lower-flow path that allows temperature management in the working space
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the working space receive different extraction treatments. The secondary conduit with flow control devices provides localized, controlled extraction near the build bed for temperature stability, while the primary conduit handles general exhaust removal throughout the space
3Ease of operation
If flow control devices are added within the apparatus, then flow control capability is improved, but the system may be overpowered by the site extraction system
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a spatial dimension to flow control by creating separate primary and secondary conduit pathways. This dimensional separation allows flow control devices in the secondary conduit to effectively regulate local flow without being completely overwhelmed by the high-flow primary extraction path
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
The system provides controlled temperature management and effective removal of by-products, enhancing the quality of 3D objects and ensuring operator safety by maintaining a stable working environment.
Implementation Method 1
a gas extraction system which comprises a primary conduit and at least a secondary conduit, wherein the secondary conduit is in fluid communication with the working space for extracting gas from the working space
Implementation Method 2
The gas extraction system may comprise one or more flow control devices for controlling the flow of gas extracted from the working space
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for the layer-by-layer formation of three-dimensional objects, the apparatus comprising a gas extraction system and an enclosed working space from which gas is to be extracted, wherein the working space is enclosed by side walls, a ceiling and a working surface, and comprises a working space inlet for allowing gas to enter into the working space, a working space outlet for allowing gas to exit the working space, and a build bed surface in which a layer of the object is formed; wherein the gas extraction system comprises: a primary conduit comprising at least a first primary inlet, at least a first interfacing inlet, and a primary outlet; and at least a first secondary conduit comprising a respective first secondary inlet and a respective first secondary outlet, the first secondary inlet being in fluidic communication with the working space for extracting gas from the working space, and the first secondary outlet being in fluidic communication with the first interfacing inlet; wherein the or each primary inlet is open to an environment external to the working space, and wherein the primary outlet is connectable to an external extraction source so as to suction gas from the primary conduit; and wherein the gas extraction system further comprises one or more flow control devices for controlling the flow of gas from the working space into the first secondary conduit, and thence into the primary outlet of the primary conduit. Methods for operating the apparatus, and a controller for controlling the apparatus and carrying out the methods, are also provided.