3D Object Indexing for Direct-to-Object Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct-to-object (DTO) printers struggle to print complete ink images on rounded objects due to their fixed vertical printhead configuration, which prevents full coverage of the curved surface.
Innovation Solution
A 3D printing system with an object indexing subsystem that includes a collar to grip the object, a rotating indexer attached to the collar, and an indexer actuator to rotate the object by a predetermined angular amount, allowing printheads to print on multiple portions of the object's circumference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fixed vertical printheads are used in DTO printers, then the printhead configuration is simple and stable, but complete ink image coverage cannot be achieved on rounded surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed printhead configuration into a movable one. The printhead assembly is mounted on a robotic arm that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation in three-dimensional space, allowing the printhead to follow the curved surface of rounded objects and achieve complete ink image coverage while maintaining reasonable system complexity through automated control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If unprinted products are kept in inventory at distribution sites, then local customization is enabled, but inventory management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the preliminary action principle by pre-storing unprinted products at distribution sites in a standardized, printable state. This allows local customization to be performed on-demand using the portable DTO printer, eliminating the need to pre-stock multiple variants and simplifying inventory management while maintaining adaptability to local customer preferences.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple product variants with different logos are stocked, then customer demand can be met, but inventory ordering and management becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by extracting the printing function from the manufacturing process and relocating it to the distribution point. Instead of producing and stocking multiple pre-printed product variants, the system extracts the customization step to occur locally at the distribution site, allowing a single base product design to be adapted to various customer needs without complicating inventory ordering.
Data Source
AI summary
A direct-to-object printer includes an object indexing subsystem. The object indexing subsystem includes an indexer actuator that operates a rotating indexer to rotate a collar in which an object is mounted. The amount of collar rotation enables the object held by the collar to be turned a predetermined angular amount so operation of the indexing subsystem between passes by a plurality of printheads enables different portions of a curved object surface to be printed during different passes.