3D Screen Printing Multi-Mask Positioning for Variable Cross-Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 3D screen-printing method is limited in flexibility, requiring frequent exchange of printing screens for each change in cross-section, making it unsuitable for producing components with varying or constantly varying cross-sections, such as screw-like or propeller-like structures, and resulting in long setup times.
Innovation Solution
A 3D screen-printing apparatus and method that allows for the simultaneous use of multiple printing masks on a single printing screen, enabling relative movements to position different masks at varying positions without removing the screen, allowing for the production of components with varying cross-sections by layering, including screw-like or propeller-like structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a printing screen is exchanged for each change in cross-section, then different cross-sections can be produced, but setup time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The printing screen is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating multiple printing masks that can be selectively positioned. A single printing screen can produce various cross-sections by activating different masks, eliminating the need for frequent screen exchanges and reducing setup time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing mask positioning system is made dynamic and adjustable, allowing masks to be moved to different positions on the printing screen during operation. This dynamic reconfiguration enables rapid switching between different cross-section geometries without physical screen changes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and setup time.
2Productivity
If multiple printing masks are positioned on a single printing screen, then components with varying cross-sections can be produced without screen exchange, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The printing screen is segmented into multiple independent printing masks, each capable of being positioned separately. This segmentation allows the system to produce different cross-sections using only the required masks, improving productivity by eliminating screen exchanges while managing complexity through modular, independently controllable units.
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D screen-printing apparatus for producing a shaped article includes: a printing table; a printing screen with a printing mask having a layer geometry for producing the shaped article layer by layer; an application unit to apply a printing material to the printing screen and to work it into the printing masks to produce a shaped-article layer; and a first positioning unit configured to increase the distance between the printing table and the printing screen by way of a first relative movement after the production of each shaped-article layer. The printing screen has printing masks, and the 3D screen-printing apparatus has a second positioning unit configured to perform a second relative movement between the printing table and the printing screen so different printing masks of the one printing screen can be positioned one after the other at a shaped-article position where an individual shaped article is to be built.