Device for the surface coating of pieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface coating devices for additive manufacturing parts, such as those using dip coating, face inefficiencies in process simplification, conduit network reduction, and safety measures to prevent leaks and spillage during the coating process.
Innovation Solution
A device with a leak-tight cavity, heating means, controlled water and dyeing agent conduits, and a recirculation system, featuring level sensors for optimal mixing and safety, along with a dynamic drum movement and optional pouches for part protection, and a discharge system for used dye solution treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional dip coating device with separate tanks and recirculation systems is used, then the coating process can be performed, but the device complexity and conduit network size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the dyeing tank and auxiliary tank into a single integrated tank structure. The hollow shaft serves dual purposes as both a structural support and a conduit for dye solution recirculation. This merging eliminates the need for separate tanks and reduces the overall conduit network complexity while maintaining the dip coating functionality.
2Reliability
If safety elements are added to prevent leaks and spillage, then working conditions are optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates level sensors that detect the dye solution level in advance before potential overflow or leakage occurs. When the predetermined level is reached, the system automatically stops the injection of dye solution, preventing leaks and spillage before they can happen. This proactive approach ensures safety without requiring complex additional safety mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the drum is made stationary, then the device structure is simpler, but the coating uniformity and process efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a drum that can perform dynamic movements including oscillating back-and-forth motion and rotational movement around a coaxial axis. This dynamic capability enhances the coating uniformity by ensuring all surfaces of the parts are evenly exposed to the dye solution, while the movement mechanisms remain relatively simple and integrated into the existing drum structure.
4Manufacturing precision
If level sensors and control units are added to control water and dyeing agent flow, then the coating quality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates level sensors that provide feedback on the dye solution level within the tank. This feedback mechanism allows the control unit to automatically regulate the injection of water and dyeing agent, maintaining optimal coating conditions. The feedback-based control ensures consistent coating quality while the control system remains integrated and manageable.
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
The device simplifies the surface coating process, reduces conduit size, ensures optimal working conditions, prevents leaks, and efficiently recirculates the dye solution, enhancing the coating process while maintaining safety and quality.
Implementation Method 1
heating means, one or more water supply conduits and at least one dyeing agent inlet conduit for entry to said leak-tight cavity and drum
Implementation Method 2
the leak-tight cavity includes a first level sensor which is directly or indirectly connected to the control device of the water supply conduit, such that the entry of water to the leak-tight cavity
Implementation Method 3
a fluid recirculation circuit from said recovery tank to said leak-tight cavity and said drum
Implementation Method 4
the drum arranged inside the leak-tight cavity has a cylindrical geometry, is installed in a horizontal configuration, and has a plurality of perforated holes which allow the flow of a dye solution between the leak-tight cavity and the inside of the drum
Data Source
AI summary
A device for performing a surface coating of pieces is disclosed. The device comprises a housing including one leak-tight cavity containing a drum, heating means, at least one water inlet conduit and one dyeing agent inlet conduit, and a recovery tank and a fluid recirculation circuit from said recovery tank to said leak-tight cavity and drum. The leak-tight cavity includes a first level sensor connected to a control device, such that the entry of water to the leak-tight cavity is interrupted when a specific level is reached inside the cavity, and the recovery tank includes at least a second level sensor connected to the control device, such that the entry of water and dyeing agent to the leak-tight cavity is interrupted if a specific level is exceeded inside the recovery tank.