Collapsible 3D Printing Material Container with Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing additive manufacturing systems face challenges in efficiently removing build material from containers, particularly when the material has formed structures that prevent free movement and complete removal, leading to incomplete utilization and waste.
Innovation Solution
The use of collapsible reservoir containers with a reinforcement structure and gas inlet/outlet structures allows for efficient removal of build material through controlled pressure differentials, facilitating the breakdown of adhered materials and structures, enabling complete extraction and reuse or recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If build material is contained in a standard container, then the container is simple in structure, but the build material cannot be completely removed due to formed structures preventing free movement
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs a collapsible reservoir that can dynamically change its shape and volume. The reservoir transitions from an expanded state during material dispensing to a collapsed state during removal operations, allowing the container walls to move inward and dislodge adhered build material structures, thereby enabling more complete material extraction while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state parameters of the container by applying pressure differentials between the interior and exterior environments. By creating negative pressure (vacuum) or applying positive pressure, the container can control the collapse and expansion of the reservoir, which facilitates the breakdown and removal of build material structures that would otherwise prevent complete extraction.
2Productivity
If pressure differentials are applied to remove build material, then material removal efficiency is improved, but the container structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The container integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The collapsible reservoir serves both as the material containment vessel and as an active component in the material removal process. The same flexible walls that contain the material also act as the mechanism for applying mechanical force during collapse, eliminating the need for separate removal mechanisms and maintaining structural simplicity while achieving high removal efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The container performs its own material removal function through the collapsible reservoir mechanism. When pressure differentials are applied, the reservoir collapses inward, and this self-generated mechanical action dislodges and expels the build material without requiring external complex removal systems. The container essentially removes its own contents using its own structural properties.
3Loss of substance
If the reservoir is collapsible to facilitate material removal, then material extraction is improved, but the container requires reinforcement structures
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement structure is strategically positioned only at the open end of the collapsible reservoir where structural integrity is most needed during collapse and expansion. This localized reinforcement allows the majority of the reservoir to remain flexible and collapsible, achieving complete material extraction while minimizing the addition of complex structural elements. The reinforcement provides just enough support to prevent buckling without restricting the necessary collapsibility.
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 ensures nearly complete removal of build material, reducing waste and extending the life cycle of materials by allowing for the reuse of virgin or used materials, while also simplifying the handling and transportation of containers.
Implementation Method 1
allows for efficient removal of build material through controlled pressure differentials
Implementation Method 2
a suction force is applied to an internal space of the reservoir of the container
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a 3D printing build material container (1). The container comprises a collapsible reservoir, (3) a relatively rigid reinforcement structure (4), a build material outlet structure (13) and a gas inlet structure (14). The reservoir is to hold build material (11). The reinforcement structure is to resist collapsing of at least one reinforced portion of the reservoir. The outlet structure is to allow build material to exit the reservoir. The inlet structure is to allow a gas to enter the reservoir.