Cable Pull Sensor for Additive Manufacturing Powder Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powder modules for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects face challenges in accurately detecting the position of the carrying device, especially at long traveling distances, necessitating an improvement in position detection devices.
Innovation Solution
A powder module equipped with a cable pull sensor system that includes a housing element, a cable-like pull-out element, and a detection device to accurately detect the position of the carrying device, allowing for reliable position detection even at large moving distances, and optionally using multiple sensors for redundancy and orientation detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional position detection devices are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates at long traveling distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical position detection devices with a cable pull sensor system that uses a flexible cable to mechanically couple the carrying device to the sensor. This substitution maintains mechanical simplicity while achieving accurate position detection over long distances, as the flexible cable can accommodate the extended travel range without compromising measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the carrying device travels long distances, then the adaptability is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cable as the coupling element between the carrying device and the position detection sensor. This flexible cable can extend over long distances while maintaining mechanical coupling, enabling the system to adapt to extended traveling distances without losing position detection accuracy. The flexibility of the cable allows it to accommodate the full range of motion of the carrying device.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors are used for redundancy, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements redundancy by providing multiple cable pull sensors that can detect the position of the carrying device. This beforehand cushioning approach ensures that if one sensor fails or provides inaccurate readings, other sensors can compensate, thereby maintaining reliable position detection. The system is designed to tolerate sensor failures without compromising overall functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A powder module (1) for an apparatus for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, comprising a powder chamber (2) limiting a powder room (3) that can be filled with powdered construction material, a carrying device (4) arranged in the powder room (3), limiting the powder room (3) at the bottom, movably supported relative to the powder chamber (2), and a position detection device (6), which is provided for the detection of the position of the carrying device (4), wherein the position detection device (6) is formed as or at least comprises a cable pull sensor.