Build Material Container with Deformable Shell for Powder Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current additive manufacturing systems face challenges in efficiently managing and recycling build materials, particularly in storing and transporting large volumes of powder-based materials, which can lead to waste and inefficiencies in the printing process.
Innovation Solution
The development of build material containers with innovative designs, including deformable structures and multiple reservoirs, that allow for efficient storage, transportation, and recycling of build materials, using features like aspiration channels and gas inlet structures to prevent material compaction and ensure continuous supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large volumes of powder-based build material are stored and transported, then material availability for printing is improved, but material compaction and waste occur
Solution Approach 1:
The container incorporates a deformable structure that can change its volume and shape dynamically. During transport, the structure maintains compression to prevent compaction. During dispensing, it expands to allow material flow while preventing compaction through controlled deformation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses aspiration channels and gas inlet structures to introduce gas flow that fluidizes the powder material. This pneumatic action prevents compaction during storage and transport while enabling controlled dispensing through the aspiration channels
2Duration of action of stationary object
If build material is stored in large volumes, then printing operation continuity is improved, but material compaction occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable structure continuously adjusts its configuration based on material level and compression needs. It maintains optimal material density for printing while preventing excessive compaction through dynamic deformation cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The gas inlet structure provides periodic gas flow cycles that fluidize the powder material. This periodic pneumatic action prevents continuous compaction while maintaining material stability for extended printing operations
3Productivity
If deformable structures are used in containers, then material handling efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container uses a deformable shell structure that provides the necessary flexibility for efficient material handling. This flexible structure allows volume adjustment and deformation to facilitate material flow while maintaining relative structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable structure is designed to nest within or around the powder material reservoir, providing structural functionality without adding significant complexity. The nested configuration allows the deformable element to work in conjunction with the reservoir rather than as a separate complex system
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
These containers enable safe and efficient handling of large volumes of build materials, minimizing waste and ensuring uninterrupted printing operations by maintaining material quality and availability.
Implementation Method 1
gas inlet structures to prevent material compaction
Implementation Method 2
aspiration channels
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of the present disclosure relate to a build material container for a three-dimensional printing system. The container has an external casing with an upper surface, a lower compartment to receive a build material reservoir, at least one load-bearing element, and an upper compartment below the upper surface. The upper compartment and the lower compartment are separated by a lower surface. The at least one load-bearing element is arranged below the lower surface. The upper compartment has stiffening members arranged to distribute load received from the upper surface to the at least one load-bearing element.