3D Printing Build Platform Multi-Material Resin Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional printing technologies, such as stereolithographic printers, are limited to producing objects with uniform material composition and appearance, lacking the capability to create multi-material structures with intricate optical and structural properties.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional printing apparatus that allows for the translation of a build platform in three dimensions over multiple resin containers, enabling the use of different resin materials for each layer, and incorporating a curing assembly and contact sensor for precise control and collision avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single resin container is used in the stereolithographic printer, then the device complexity is reduced, but the material versatility and ability to create multi-material structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single resin container is segmented into multiple separate resin containers, each holding a different resin material. The build platform is divided into multiple zones that can selectively access different containers, allowing multi-material printing while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular organization
Solution Approach 2:
The build platform is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can selectively access different resin containers, support various build configurations, and accommodate different material types. This universal design allows the same platform to handle diverse materials without requiring separate dedicated systems for each material type
2Adaptability or versatility
If the build platform is fixed in position, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to access multiple resin containers and create intricate structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The build platform transitions from a fixed static structure to a dynamic system with multiple degrees of freedom. It can translate horizontally to access different resin containers and rotate to achieve various build orientations. This dynamic capability enables intricate multi-material structures while the actuation system manages complexity through coordinated motion control
3Quantity of substance
If multiple resin containers are introduced, then the material diversity increases, but the risk of collisions and positioning errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on the build platform's position and orientation, as well as the status of each resin container. This feedback loop enables the control system to accurately track platform movements, prevent collisions with containers, and ensure precise positioning over the correct material source, maintaining high reliability despite increased complexity
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
Enables the creation of multi-material objects with unique inner structures, material properties, profiles, and translucencies, overcoming the limitations of conventional 3D printing by allowing for intricate and detailed optical and structural properties.
Implementation Method 1
A high-powered ultraviolet laser or similar light screen or digital light processing projector screen is provided, with a computer controller for controlling the movement of the platform and the laser. The laser cures the resin to thereby cause the three-dimensional printing action.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A three-dimensional printing apparatus (10) is provided, which is particularly suited for the production of dental structures. The apparatus (10) comprises a support base (12), a support (14), and a build platform (18) onto which a three-dimensional printing output is buildable. An actuation means is mounted to the support (14) which has a moveable head (16) to which the build platform (18) is mounted. A plurality of resin containers (20) is positioned at the support base (12) along with a curing assembly (42). The build platform (18) is moveable in three dimensions by the actuation means over the plurality of resin containers (20), and the curing assembly (42) is configured to cure resin from any resin container (20) of the plurality of resin containers (20) when the build platform (18) is positioned directly above said resin container.