Automated Additive Manufacturing Device with Integrated Pre-Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Additive manufacturing processes require significant human involvement in pre-processing, printing, and post-processing, making them time-consuming and labor-intensive, particularly in digital file preparation and post-curing steps.
Innovation Solution
An automated additive manufacturing device that integrates pre-processing, printing, and post-processing capabilities, allowing for decentralized or centralized file preparation and automation of tasks such as file fixing, support structure generation, and post-curing, with wireless communication for remote data processing and execution, reducing human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated additive manufacturing device with integrated pre-processing and post-processing is implemented, then productivity and automation extent are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pre-processing (file preparation, support generation), printing (radiation-based additive manufacturing), and post-processing (washing, curing) operations into a single integrated device. The washing station, curing station, and printing chamber are merged into one system with automated transfer mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate equipment and manual handling between operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs multiple functions within a single system: it prepares manufacturing files, generates support structures, prints 3D objects using radiation-based polymerization, washes printed objects, and cures them. The rotatable tray and automated positioning system enable the same device to handle multiple processing stages and different object types universally.
2Extent of automation
If automated workflows with integrated pre-processing and post-processing are implemented, then operator time and labor are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically performs file preparation, support structure generation, and post-processing operations without operator intervention. The system self-manages the workflow from digital file to finished printed object, with automated positioning, washing, and curing sequences that require no manual handling or decision-making during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary actions automatically: generating support structures before printing, preparing manufacturing files in advance, and positioning objects on the rotatable tray before each processing stage. These preparatory operations are executed autonomously to ensure smooth transitions between printing and post-processing.
3Ease of operation
If centralized file processing is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of time in data transfer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes an integrated computer that acts as an intermediary between the user and the manufacturing process. The computer handles file processing, support generation, and workflow management locally, eliminating the need for continuous external server communication and reducing data transfer delays while maintaining ease of operation through a unified interface.
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 device enables fully automated workflows from start to finish, significantly reducing operator time and enhancing efficiency by automating pre-processing, printing, and post-processing steps, resulting in a seamless and faster production of ready-to-use 3D objects.
Implementation Method 1
a resin vessel for containing a material which is polymerisable on exposure to radiation; a radiation source positioned to irradiate uncured material on said build surface to manufacture the object
Data Source
AI summary
An additive manufacturing system comprising: an additive manufacturing device, said device including: a resin vessel for containing a material which is polymerisable on exposure to radiation; a build platform having a build surface arranged to have an object manufactured thereon; a radiation source; said radiation source positioned to irradiate uncured material on said build surface to manufacture the object; said device in wireless communication with a central station; said central station arranged to process data to create manufacturing files; said central station arranged to communicate said files to said device such that the device manufactures the object based upon said files.