Positioning Fixture for Accurate Additive Manufacturing Base Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the position of base devices in additive manufacturing, particularly rotational position, are inaccurate and can damage the base device, especially for round or cylindrical shapes.
Innovation Solution
A Position Determining Device (PDD) is attached to the base device, featuring an edge that facilitates accurate position determination using a light source, without altering the base device, by positioning it in a recess or using fastening means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser scanning is used to determine the position of the base device, then position determination can be achieved, but the base device may be negatively impacted or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a position determining device (PDD) as an intermediary element that attaches to the base device. The PDD includes a position determining element with high reflectivity that serves as a mediator between the laser scanning system and the base device. This allows the laser to accurately determine position by scanning the PDD's reflective element rather than directly scanning the base device, thereby achieving precise measurement while preventing harmful effects on the base device itself
Solution Approach 2:
The position determining device creates an optical copy or surrogate for position determination. Instead of directly measuring the base device, the system measures the known reflective elements of the PDD that is attached to the base device. The position information is inferred from the PDD's position relative to the base device, effectively using a copy or representation of the base device's position for measurement purposes
2Measurement precision
If laser scanning is used to determine rotational position, then position information can be obtained, but the process becomes complex and difficult especially for round or cylindrical base devices
Solution Approach 1:
The position determining device introduces asymmetric or distinctive reflective elements onto potentially symmetric base devices. The PDD includes specific reflective patterns, edges, or geometric features that create unique optical signatures during laser scanning. This asymmetry in the PDD's reflective elements provides clear reference points for determining rotational position, even when the base device itself is round or cylindrical and lacks inherent asymmetry for reference
3Measurement precision
If a position determining device is added to the base device, then position determination accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The position determination function is segmented into a separate, modular position determining device that attaches to the base device rather than being integrated into the base device itself. This segmentation allows the PDD to be independently designed, optimized for measurement, and easily attached or removed. The modular nature reduces overall system complexity by separating the measurement function from the base device function while maintaining high measurement precision
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
Provides cost-effective and precise determination of both rotational and spatial positions of the base device, protecting it from damage and improving manufacturing accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The PDD further comprises an edge, wherein the edge is used for determining the position of the PDD when the PDD is attached to the base device... made of reflective heat-resistant material
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a position of a base device in an additive manufacturing device is provided. The method includes positioning a position determining device, PDD, on the base device, such that the PDD protrudes from the base device after positioning, wherein the PDD includes an edge. The method further includes determining the position of the PDD based on the edge of the PDD, and based on the position of the PDD, determining the position of the base device.