Page-Width Array Printing Module for Rapid Prototyping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rapid prototyping apparatuses using general inkjet printing technology are limited by slow forming speeds and restricted size due to the time-consuming process of moving inkjet head structures along multiple axes, making it inefficient for producing large-sized three-dimensional physical models.
Innovation Solution
A rapid prototyping apparatus equipped with a page-width array printing module, which features a movable platform with plural inkjet head structures that move in a single direction, allowing for simultaneous printing across a larger area and eliminating the need for reciprocal motion along multiple axes, thereby increasing the size and speed of the construction chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If general inkjet printing technology with reciprocating motion along multiple axes is used, then printing can be performed on construction material, but the forming speed is slow and the construction chamber size is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The inkjet printing system is segmented into multiple independent inkjet heads arranged in parallel. Each inkjet head can independently print binder material onto the construction material layer, enabling simultaneous printing operations across different zones of the construction chamber, thereby dramatically increasing forming speed without requiring reciprocating motion along multiple axes
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-axis reciprocating motion to multi-dimensional parallel processing by arranging multiple inkjet heads in a spatial array. This dimensional transformation allows the printing system to cover a larger construction chamber volume simultaneously, eliminating the time penalty associated with sequential reciprocating movements
2Area of stationary object
If inkjet head structures move along multiple axes in reciprocating motion, then printing coverage can be achieved, but the construction chamber size is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The printing system is divided into multiple stationary or simply moving inkjet head modules distributed across the construction chamber. This segmentation allows the construction chamber to be expanded in size without proportionally increasing the complexity of the motion system, as each module operates independently with simplified movement requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple inkjet heads are designed with universal functionality, where each head can perform the same printing operation. This multi-functionality allows the system to cover a larger construction chamber area without requiring each individual head to traverse the entire chamber, thereby reducing the overall device complexity while expanding the printable volume
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
This solution enables the rapid prototyping apparatus to produce large-sized three-dimensional models at a significantly faster speed and larger volume, enhancing printing efficiency and quality without the limitations of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
printing high viscosity liquid binder on part of the powder by using the inkjet printing technology, so that the liquid binder and the powder stick together to become solidified
Data Source
AI summary
A rapid prototyping apparatus with a page-width array printing module is disclosed. The rapid prototyping apparatus includes a construction platform, a movable platform and a page-width array printing module. The construction platform has a construction chamber. The length of the construction chamber is ranged from 0.8 m to 1.5 m, the width of the construction chamber is ranged from 0.8 m to 1.5 m, and the height of construction chamber is ranged from 0.8 m to 1.2 m. The movable platform is disposed above the construction platform. The page-width array printing module is installed on the movable platform and synchronously moved along a single direction in a reciprocating motion. The page-width array printing module has plural inkjet head structures disposed thereon, so that a rapid prototyping width-page printing operation is performed.