3D Bio-Printer Printhead with Integrated Cell Storage and Temperature Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D bio-printers face issues with low cell printing survival rates due to simple cell storage devices and lack of control over the printing process, including manual termination and inadequate temperature and discharge mode management.
Innovation Solution
A cell liquid storage device integrated with a controllable printhead, featuring a stepping motor, air valve system, semiconductor cooling plate, electric heating sheet, liquid level meter, and thermometer, which allows for automatic adjustment of discharge mode, temperature control, and timely process termination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple plastic syringe is used as the cell storage device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the cell printing survival rate deteriorates due to inability to control printing parameters and prevent contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cell storage device with the printhead into an integrated system. The storage device includes a cell liquid container, air valve, and printhead assembly that work together as a unified unit, allowing coordinated control of cell delivery and environmental protection throughout the printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The air valve acts as an intermediary component between the external environment and the cell liquid storage cavity. It controls air intake and exhaust to maintain proper pressure and prevent contamination, mediating the interaction between the simple storage structure and the complex printing requirements.
2Device complexity
If manual termination of printing is required, then the control system complexity is reduced, but the productivity deteriorates due to inability to stop printing timely when cell liquid is used up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the air valve system monitors the cell liquid level and printing status. When cell liquid is depleted or contamination is detected, the system automatically provides feedback signals to stop the printing process, eliminating the need for manual monitoring while maintaining simple overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated storage and printing system performs self-monitoring and self-termination functions. The air valve and control mechanism automatically detect when printing should stop and execute the termination without external intervention, allowing the system to service itself during operation.
3Device complexity
If temperature control of the printhead is not implemented, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to temperature variations affecting cell viability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates temperature control capability that allows adjustment of the printhead temperature parameter. The system can maintain optimal temperature ranges for different cell types, ensuring consistent cell viability and printing quality without requiring overly complex thermal management infrastructure.
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 enhances cell printing survival rates by preventing contamination, ensuring consistent material discharge, and improving printing quality through precise temperature management and automatic process control.
Implementation Method 1
A semiconductor cooling plate and an electric heating sheet are provided at an outer side of the cell tube
Implementation Method 2
A liquid level meter and a thermometer are provided in the inner cavity of the cell tube
Implementation Method 3
One end of the air valve straight tube can communicate with the upper end port of the rotary air valve and the other end of the air valve straight tube communicates with an air pump through the top vent tube
Implementation Method 4
The discharge port generates pressure on the converging sheet. The pressure is transmitted to the compression spring through the converging sheet, and the compression spring is compressed, thereby achieving the purpose of controlling the opening diameter of the printing nozzle
Implementation Method 5
an electric field is generated between the applied electric field electrode sheets on both sides of the discharge port to achieve the purpose of controlling the material discharge mode
Data Source
AI summary
A printhead device is provided. The printhead device includes a cell tube, a cell tube rubber plug covering the cell tube, a connector arranged at an end of the cell tube, and a fixing knob fixed to the connector and communicating with a printing nozzle through a bottom liquid tube. A fixing clip is provided on the upper part of the cell tube, and a stepping motor box is provided on the upper end of the fixing clip. An air valve box is arranged on the upper side of the stepping motor box, and a rotary air valve is provided in the air valve box. The rotary air valve communicates with the inner cavity of the cell tube through an internal vent tube, and with an air valve straight tube or an air valve gooseneck tube.