3D Printer Build Plate Coupling Secured Against Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing additively manufacturing apparatuses face failures due to decoupling of the coupling means from the carrier element caused by friction forces exceeding clamping forces, leading to loss of mobility and apparatus failure.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a securing unit that applies an axial securing force to prevent decoupling by counteracting friction forces, ensuring the coupling means remains securely attached to the carrier element, with a positive locking connection and additional clamping device for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the coupling means is clamped in a recess in the carrier element, then the coupling is simple and easy to implement, but the coupling means may be decoupled when friction forces exceed clamping forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional clamping arrangement (coupling means clamped in a recess) to a three-dimensional solution by introducing a securing unit that extends through the carrier element and engages the coupling means axially. This adds a Z-dimension to the coupling, creating a multi-dimensional constraint that prevents decoupling while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing unit is pre-installed in the carrier element before operation, creating a preliminary counter-action force that opposes any potential decoupling force. The securing unit with its securing element positioned to engage the coupling means provides advance protection against friction-induced decoupling, eliminating the need for complex feedback control.
2Reliability
If the clamping force is increased to prevent decoupling, then the coupling stability improves, but the complexity of the coupling mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the securing function from the coupling means itself and places it in a separate securing unit that is part of the carrier element. This separation allows the coupling means to remain simple while the securing unit provides the additional stability, avoiding the need to complicate the coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing unit acts as an intermediary element between the carrier element and the coupling means. Rather than directly increasing clamping force on the coupling means, the securing unit mediates the connection by providing an additional engagement point that stabilizes the coupling without adding complexity to the primary coupling mechanism.
3Reliability
If the coupling means is made more secure to prevent decoupling, then the reliability improves, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling system into distinct functional components: the coupling means for primary connection, the securing unit for stability, and the driving unit for mobility. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the securing unit prevents decoupling while the driving unit maintains ease of operation through its dedicated coupling with the carrier element.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing unit is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to provide secure engagement during normal operation while accommodating the movement and positioning requirements of the carrier element. The securing element can engage and disengage as needed, providing reliability when required while maintaining operational flexibility.
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 improves the reliability and safety of the apparatus by maintaining the coupling between the coupling means and the carrier element, preventing decoupling and ensuring precise positioning and movement of the build plate during the additive manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
an irradiation device which is configured to selectively irradiate a build material layer disposed in the process chamber with at least one energy beam
Implementation Method 2
the coupling means may be decoupled, i.e. pulled out of the recess, e.g. due to friction between the carrier element and a housing of the apparatus, wherein the a corresponding friction force on the carrier element may exceed a clamping force
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus (1) for additively manufacturing of three-dimensional objects by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material which can be consolidated by means of an energy beam, with a carrier device (2) with at least one carrier element (3) for carrying build material and/or at least one object to be built and a driving unit (4) configured to drive the at least one carrier element (3), wherein the driving unit (4) is coupled with the carrier element (3) via at least one coupling means (5), wherein at least one securing unit (10) is provided that is configured to secure the coupling of the carrier element (3) with the at least one coupling means (5), wherein the securing unit (10) is configured to apply a securing force directed axially on the coupling means (5).