Fixing Dye Diffusion in 3D Ceramic Jet Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The uncontrolled diffusion of nitrate salt solutions as dye solutions during the spatial layer build-up process in dental restoration manufacturing by jet printing.
Innovation Solution
A method involving jet printing one or more layers of a dental restoration using a ceramic slip, followed by jet printing a coloring solution and applying a fixing solution to prevent uncontrolled diffusion of the coloring solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If nitrate salt solutions are used as coloring solutions in jet printing, then selective coloring of ceramic layers is enabled, but uncontrolled diffusion of the coloring solution occurs during layer build-up
Solution Approach 1:
A fixing solution is introduced as an intermediary substance between the coloring solution and the porous ceramic body. This fixing solution contains substances that react with or bind the nitrate salt coloring agents, preventing their uncontrolled diffusion into the ceramic while allowing selective coloring to occur. The fixing solution acts as a mediator that controls the interaction between the coloring solution and the porous substrate.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing solution is applied to the ceramic layers before the coloring solution is jet-printed. This preliminary action prepares the surface by creating a controlled environment that prevents subsequent uncontrolled diffusion of the coloring agents. By establishing this protective layer first, the system ensures that when the coloring solution is applied, it remains localized to the intended areas.
2Reliability
If aqueous ceramic slips are used for jet printing, then drying without cracking is achieved, but uncontrolled diffusion of coloring solutions occurs in the porous structure
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing solution is applied in advance to the dried porous ceramic structure before coloring. This preliminary treatment modifies the porous structure's properties to prevent subsequent uncontrolled absorption of coloring solutions, while maintaining the beneficial crack-free drying characteristics of the aqueous slip system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing solution serves as an intermediary layer between the porous ceramic structure and the coloring solution. It modifies the interaction at the interface, allowing the porous structure to maintain its drying characteristics while preventing uncontrolled diffusion of coloring agents through the pores.
3Extent of automation
If manual infiltration with airbrush systems is used, then automation of coloring is achieved, but high experience requirement and complexity remain
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing solution application enables a form of self-service where the system automatically prevents diffusion issues that would otherwise require skilled manual control. By applying the fixing solution through the jet printing system, the process self-regulates the coloring behavior without requiring operator intervention or expertise in controlling diffusion patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated application of fixing solution as a preliminary step simplifies the overall process by establishing controlled conditions that eliminate the need for skilled manual infiltration techniques. The system prepares the substrate in advance, allowing subsequent coloring to proceed automatically without requiring operator expertise in diffusion control.
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 method ensures controlled, selective coloring of 3D-printed green bodies during additive manufacturing, preventing uncontrolled diffusion and achieving precise color application.
Implementation Method 1
This ensures, for example, controlled, selective coloring of the 3D-printed ZrO2 green compact using coloring solutions during the additive manufacturing process
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for producing a dental restoration by jet printing, comprising the steps of jet printing (S101) one or more layers of the dental restoration using a ceramic slip; jet printing (S102) a coloring solution onto the one or more layers; and applying (S103) a fixing solution for fixing the fixing solution.