FDM Platform Layer for Fabric Adherence and Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional 3D printing techniques on fabrics often result in inadequate adherence and damage to the fabric due to rapid printing processes, leading to weakened materials and time-consuming methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of a platform layer formed by dispensing a flowable material onto a fabric support structure, which fills voids and solidifies to create a secure surface for subsequent 3D element layers, improving adherence and reducing fabric damage through controlled temperature and viscosity management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional 3D printing techniques are used to print elements on fabric, then the printing process can be completed, but the printed elements do not adhere well to the fabric and the fabric is damaged and weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first forming a support structure platform layer before printing the 3D elements. The support structure is created in advance to provide a stable foundation that protects the fabric from direct contact with the printing process, preventing fabric damage while ensuring proper adherence of subsequent printed layers
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary between the printing process and the fabric. It mediates the interaction by bearing the thermal and mechanical loads of the printing process, thereby protecting the fabric from damage while providing a stable surface for element adherence
2Productivity
If traditional 3D printing techniques are used on fabric, then printing can be performed, but the process is time consuming and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is prepared in advance before the actual 3D element printing begins. This preliminary preparation enables faster subsequent printing operations by providing a ready-made stable platform, reducing the overall production time despite the additional initial step
3Productivity
If rapid printing is performed on fabric, then productivity increases, but the fabric is damaged and weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure serves as a protective intermediary that allows rapid printing to occur without directly exposing the fabric to damaging thermal and mechanical stresses. The support structure absorbs the impact and heat, enabling high-speed printing while preserving fabric integrity
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 enables rapid and effective printing of 3D elements on fabrics with enhanced adherence, maintaining the fabric's strength and allowing for faster production of visually appealing products with improved texture and design.
Implementation Method 1
forming a platform layer on the support structure by dispensing onto the top surface of the support structure a flowable platform layer material... wherein at least a portion of the voids are filled with the flowable platform layer material
Implementation Method 2
from an extrusion head transported in the x and/or y directions over the top surface of the support structure... incrementally transporting the extrusion head in the z direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to the use of additive manufacturing, and in particular, a fused deposition modeling (FDM) process, in the production of fabrics. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to the use of additive manufacturing to fabricate three-dimensional elements on a fabric support structure. Also disclosed are methods for determining the spatial relationship between a fabric support structure and a print head used in additive manufacturing.