Dual Nozzle 3D Printer with Tilting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional shaping apparatuses face challenges in achieving both high precision and speed due to the limitations of using a single nozzle, which also results in decreased productivity when nozzle failures occur, and interference issues arise when multiple nozzles are used.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional shaping apparatus with two nozzles of different diameters, where the control system switches between them and adjusts their positions relative to the shaping table to prevent interference, allowing for precise control over shaping precision and speed based on the application, and includes a valve mechanism to manage flow paths and suction to prevent material leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a nozzle with a small diameter is used, then shaping precision is improved, but shaping speed is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The single nozzle is segmented into multiple nozzles with different diameters. The small-diameter nozzle handles precision work while the large-diameter nozzle handles high-speed work, allowing both precision and speed requirements to be met simultaneously through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
Different nozzles are assigned to different regions or stages of the shaping process based on local requirements. The small-diameter nozzle is used for regions requiring high precision, while the large-diameter nozzle is used for regions requiring rapid material deposition, optimizing performance for each specific area.
2Productivity
If a nozzle with a large diameter is used, then shaping speed is improved, but shaping precision is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The shaping system is segmented into multiple nozzles where the large-diameter nozzle is specifically assigned for high-speed deposition tasks, while precision-critical tasks are handled by smaller nozzles, allowing speed optimization without sacrificing overall precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The large-diameter nozzle is strategically used for specific regions or layers where high deposition speed is prioritized over fine precision, while other regions use smaller nozzles for precision work, creating a spatially differentiated quality approach.
3Productivity
If multiple nozzles are provided to improve productivity, then shaping speed is improved, but interference between nozzles occurs affecting shaping precision
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is made dynamic through the tilting mechanism, allowing the relative positions and angles of multiple nozzles to be adjusted during operation. This dynamic adjustment prevents interference between nozzles while maintaining optimal positioning for both precision and speed requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tilting mechanism introduces an additional degree of freedom (angular dimension) for nozzle positioning. By tilting the nozzle assembly, the patent creates spatial separation between nozzles in the angular dimension, preventing interference while maintaining functional effectiveness.
4Reliability
If one nozzle is stopped while the other operates, then productivity is improved through redundancy, but the stopped nozzle interferes with the shaping object
Solution Approach 1:
When one nozzle is stopped for redundancy or maintenance, the tilting mechanism dynamically adjusts the position of the stopped nozzle to move it away from the shaping path. This dynamic repositioning eliminates interference while maintaining the productivity benefits of having redundant nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopped nozzle is repositioned in the angular dimension through tilting, moving it out of the interference zone while keeping it ready for immediate activation. This spatial reconfiguration in another dimension resolves the conflict between redundancy and precision.
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 enables simultaneous improvement in shaping precision and speed by utilizing nozzles of varying diameters and prevents interference between stopped and active nozzles, thereby enhancing productivity and reducing material leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a melting portion melting a material to be used as the shaping material
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional shaping apparatus includes a discharge mechanism, a tilting mechanism, and a control portion. the discharge mechanism includes a supply flow path, a first branch flow path, a second branch flow path, a coupling portion coupling the supply flow path with the first branch flow path and the second branch flow path, a first nozzle communicating with the first branch flow path, a second nozzle communicating with the second branch flow path, and a valve mechanism, a central axis of the first nozzle and a central axis of the second nozzle are separated from each other as going toward the table, and the control portion controls the valve mechanism to switch between a first state in which the supply flow path and the first branch flow path communicate with each other and the supply flow path and the second branch flow path are blocked from each other and a second state in which the supply flow path and the second branch flow path communicate with each other and the supply flow path and the first branch flow path are blocked from each other and controls the tilting mechanism so that in the first state, the first nozzle is brought closer to the table than the second nozzle and in the second state, the second nozzle is brought closer to the table than the first nozzle.