Elastic Membrane Transfer Head for 3D Image Deposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for transferring images to three-dimensional objects with complex shapes, such as those with small radii of curvature, face limitations due to the limited extensibility of the tampon material, leading to incomplete image transfer and air trapping in difficult-to-reach areas.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic membrane clamped in a clamping ring between the tampon and the three-dimensional object, allowing for adjustable movement relative to the support surface, which enables the tampon and membrane to access all areas, including those with small radii, by adjusting their position orthogonally and parallel to the support surface, and using a form-fitting connection to prevent slippage during image transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional tampon is used for image transfer, then the device structure is simple, but the tampon material has limited extensibility and cannot reach all areas of three-dimensional objects with small radii of curvature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible membrane (folie) as an intermediate transfer medium between the tampon and the three-dimensional object. This thin film can conform to complex geometries and small radii of curvature that a rigid or semi-rigid tampon cannot reach, enabling complete image transfer to all surfaces including difficult-to-access areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane acts as an intermediary element in the image transfer process. Instead of direct contact between the tampon and the three-dimensional object, the membrane serves as a mediator that can be deformed and positioned to achieve complete surface contact, thereby solving the accessibility problem while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If the tampon is pressed against the three-dimensional object to transfer the image, then adhesion is improved, but air pockets are trapped in difficult-to-reach areas preventing complete image transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane can be pressed conformally against the three-dimensional object surface, eliminating air pockets by achieving complete contact. The film's flexibility allows it to adapt to complex geometries and ensure uniform pressure distribution, preventing air entrapment in recesses and difficult-to-reach areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of the membrane position and shape during the transfer process. The membrane can be deformed and repositioned to maintain optimal contact with the three-dimensional object surface, ensuring complete image transfer without air pockets while allowing for adjustments during operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tampon material is made more extensible to reach all areas, then coverage is improved, but the structural integrity and control of the tampon is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane provides the necessary flexibility and extensibility to reach all areas of the three-dimensional object while maintaining structural integrity through its film-like structure. The thin film can be deformed to conform to complex surfaces yet remains controllable and stable during the transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
The image transfer system is segmented into distinct components: the tampon, the membrane, and the three-dimensional object. This segmentation allows each component to have optimized properties - the tampon provides structural support and control, while the membrane provides flexibility and conformability, achieving both coverage and stability.
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 ensures complete image transfer to all areas of three-dimensional objects, including those with small radii, by allowing precise adjustment and sealing the space between the tampon and membrane to prevent air pockets, thereby ensuring accurate and comprehensive image deposition.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic membrane clamped in a clamping ring is arranged between the tampon and the three-dimensional object
Implementation Method 2
the tampon and the clamping ring of the membrane both together and are movable relative to each other in a direction substantially orthogonal to the support surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The device has a supporting surface (20) provided on a three-dimensional article (18). A tampon (2) is adjustable in a direction, which runs orthogonal to the supporting surface. An elastic membrane (4) is clamped in a clamping ring (6) between the tampon and the three-dimensional article for transmission of the image to the three-dimensional article. The tampon and the clamping ring are movable relative to each other in direction, which runs orthogonal to the supporting surface. The tampon, the membrane and the clamping ring form a transfer head (3). An independent claim is also included for a method for transmission of the image from the two dimensional surface to the three-dimensional object.