Adjustable Slit Powder Dispenser for Metal Binder Jetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
In metal-binder jetting, achieving uniformity and precise control over the thickness of metal powder layers is challenging, particularly in high-precision applications.
Innovation Solution
A powder dispenser with an adjustable slit width, featuring a blade assembly with oscillating blades and adjustable pushers and pullers, allows for precise control over the dispensing of metal powder, ensuring uniform layer thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed-width slit is used in the powder dispenser, then the device structure is simple, but the control of layer thickness and uniformity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic slit width adjustment mechanism where the second blade can be positioned at different locations relative to the first blade using adjustment means (such as screws or movable mounts). This allows the slit width to be dynamically changed to control the amount of powder dispensed, thereby achieving precise control over layer thickness and uniformity without requiring a completely different dispenser design for each thickness requirement.
2Productivity
If the slit width is increased to dispense more powder, then the productivity is improved, but the precision of thickness control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing the slit width (a critical parameter) to be adjusted independently from the powder feed rate. The adjustment means enable precise control of the slit width parameter, which directly affects both the powder dispensing rate and layer thickness. By independently controlling this parameter, the system can optimize for either productivity or precision depending on the application requirements.
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 solution enhances the precision and uniformity of metal powder layers, leading to improved accuracy and quality in the final metal-binder jetting structures.
Implementation Method 1
a blade assembly comprising: a first blade and a second blade. The first blade and the second blade are separated, or spaced apart, form a space between them for holding a metal powder and a slit for dispensing the metal powder
Implementation Method 2
in use, the dispenser is oriented such that the metal powder in the space between the blades is dispensed via the slit by the force of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A powder dispenser (16) for metal-binder jetting is proposed. The powder dispenser (16) comprises a blade assembly (42) having: a first blade (44) and a second blade (46). The first blade (44) and the second blade (46) are separated, form a space (48) between them for holding a metal powder and a slit (18) for dispensing the metal powder, and the slit (18) has a width that is adjustable. A powder dispensing system (10) for metal-binder jetting is also proposed. The system (10) comprises a powder dispenser (16) having a slit (18), a dispenser support (20) configured to move the slit (18) between a refilling position and a dispensing position, and a rake (22) positioned between the refilling position and the dispensing position, wherein the rake (22) is arranged to scrape off metal powder at the slit (18).