Dynamic Print and Cure System for Adjustable Gloss Levels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current printing technologies face challenges in achieving precise control over the gloss level of printed surfaces, as existing methods require manual adjustments and are limited in producing a range of gloss levels without interrupting the printing process.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dynamic print and cure system that adjusts the separation distance between the printhead assembly and the curing device, allowing for automatic control of gloss levels by varying the spacing along rails, enabling the production of matte to high-gloss finishes without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustments are used to control gloss levels, then gloss level control is achievable, but the printing process must be interrupted and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the separation distance between the printhead assembly and curing device adjustable during the printing process. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to change gloss levels without manual intervention or process interruption, resolving the contradiction between precision control and productivity by automating what was previously a manual, interruptive process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of separation distance to control gloss levels. By varying this parameter automatically, the system achieves precise gloss control while maintaining continuous printing operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and process interruptions
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustments are made to change gloss levels, then different gloss levels can be achieved, but operation time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the separation distance between printhead and curing device during printing, enabling versatile gloss level changes without stopping the process. This eliminates the time loss associated with manual adjustments while maintaining the ability to produce varied gloss levels across different regions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous printing operation while automatically adjusting gloss levels by modifying the separation distance. This eliminates interruptions and time losses, allowing the useful action of printing to continue uninterrupted while achieving versatile gloss control
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed separation distance is used, then device complexity is reduced, but gloss level control range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adjustable spacing mechanism that allows the separation distance to be dynamically changed during printing. This moderate increase in device complexity enables a wide range of gloss levels to be achieved, resolving the contradiction by providing precise control over gloss appearance across different regions of printed objects
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 the production of structures with varied gloss levels in different regions of a printed object, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of the printing process by allowing for continuous adjustment of gloss levels without stopping the printer, thus improving the quality and versatility of printed surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a curing device (202) that cures the print material
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus of providing varying gloss levels for a printed surface of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional printed structure is disclosed. The method includes dynamically adjusting the spacing between a printhead assembly and a curing device according to a target gloss level for the resulting printed structure.