3D Printing Build Plate Leveling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 3D printing systems using stereolithography, the build plate may not be parallel to the upper surface of the resin, leading to defective or partially missing articles during the layer-by-layer solidification process.
Innovation Solution
A build plate positioning mechanism with a pair of L-shaped brackets and adjustment mechanisms allows for independent angular adjustments of the build plate along two lateral axes, ensuring accurate leveling above the resin surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the build plate is adjusted for leveling, then the manufacturing precision of the 3D printed article is improved, but the operator must be in contact with or near the resin which creates safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the positioning mechanism with adjustable feet and datums) that allows the build plate to be leveled without the operator needing to directly contact or closely approach the resin. The adjustment feet act as intermediaries between the operator and the build plate, enabling remote adjustment while maintaining safety.
2Measurement precision
If the build plate leveling adjustment is performed close to the resin surface, then the visualization accuracy for leveling is improved, but the safety risk from resin contact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism serves as an intermediary that enables accurate leveling visualization without requiring close proximity to the resin. The adjustable feet with datums provide visual reference points for leveling while maintaining a safe distance from the hazardous resin surface.
3Device complexity
If a simple build plate support structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to accurately level the build plate deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The build plate support structure is segmented into multiple independent adjustable feet, each with its own positioning mechanism. This segmentation allows each foot to be independently adjusted to achieve precise leveling of the build plate, while keeping each individual foot relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the adjustable feet that can be positioned and locked at different heights and angles. This dynamic nature enables the structure to adapt to achieve precise leveling while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D printing system includes a resin vessel, a build plate positioning mechanism, a plurality of lower datums, and a build plate. The build plate positioning mechanism includes a pair of L-shaped brackets that individually include a fixed vertical portion, a movable portion, and an adjustment mechanism. The movable portion includes a lateral lower end. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust and set an angular position of the lateral lower end with respect to the fixed vertical portion. The build plate has a plurality of upper datums configured to engage and align to the plurality of lower datums when the build plate is placed upon the pair of L-shaped brackets. The plurality of lower datums are arranged upon the pair of L-shaped brackets to enable the adjustment mechanisms of the pair of L-shaped brackets to provide an independent angular adjustment of the build plate along two lateral axes.