Build Tray Immersion Cleaning for Resin Removal From 3D Prints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D printing processes produce objects that require efficient removal of unwanted resin, which current methods have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a housing with a lift mechanism and a build tray fixture that immerses 3D printed objects in a detergent solution for resin removal, followed by optional rinsing and curing using UV light arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual resin removal methods are used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but productivity and cleaning thoroughness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple functions (resin removal, rinsing, curing) into a single integrated apparatus. The housing contains all three processing chambers, and the lift mechanism coordinates movement through all stages automatically, eliminating the need for separate manual operations while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift mechanism serves multiple functions: it transports the build tray between chambers, controls immersion depth in each chamber, and enables automatic transition between resin removal, rinsing, and curing stages. This single mechanism replaces multiple manual handling operations.
2Productivity
If automated resin removal systems are implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs resin removal, rinsing, and curing automatically without requiring operator intervention during the process. The lift mechanism autonomously transports the build tray through chambers, and UV LEDs automatically cure the parts after rinsing, freeing the operator from manual labor.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing sequence is divided into distinct chambers (resin removal chamber, rinsing chamber, curing chamber), each optimized for its specific function. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each stage while maintaining overall automated operation through the lift mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If thorough resin removal is achieved, then manufacturing precision improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates idle time between processing stages by continuously moving the build tray through chambers using the lift mechanism. The transition from resin removal to rinsing to curing occurs without interruption, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The rinsing chamber is positioned immediately after the resin removal chamber, preparing the parts for curing before they are fully processed. This preliminary positioning and sequential arrangement ensures that each stage is ready to receive parts without delay, optimizing the overall processing time.
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
Effectively removes resin from 3D printed objects, allowing for efficient and thorough cleaning with reusable detergent and ensuring high quality and precision of the system 200.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid formulation that removes the resin
Implementation Method 2
curing the 3D printed objects after the unwanted resin has been removed
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for removing resin from 3D printed objects. The system includes a housing in which is located a fixture adapted for attaching on a bottom side thereof a build tray, which is a component of a 3D printer upon which 3D printed objects are manufactured and which is removable from the 3D printer. The system also includes a lift mechanism located in the housing and connected to the fixture. The lift mechanism moves the fixture from an upper position to a lower position to immerse the build tray with the 3D printed parts in a container of a liquid formulation that removes resin from the 3D printed objects. The system may also provide for rinsing and curing the 3D printed objects after the unwanted resin has been removed.