Flatness Detection Device Using Electromagnetic Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flatness detection mechanisms in 3D printing devices lack precision and reliability due to noise, spring wear, and high costs associated with active self-leveling platforms, and existing mechanical touch sensors fail to meet demanding customer needs for accurate software correction.
Innovation Solution
A flatness detection device comprising a back plate, electromagnet, cross beam, probe, and limiting frame with a spring for vertical movement, a photoelectric sensor, and a controller, which allows for precise detection without mechanical wear or noise, using a sliding groove and positioning pin for improved axial displacement precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical touch sensors are used for flatness detection, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient to meet demanding customer needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical touch sensor with an electromagnetic detection system. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that interacts with the probe, and the photoelectric sensor detects positional changes optically, eliminating mechanical contact and friction while achieving high measurement precision for flatness detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the electromagnet and the probe. The magnetic field serves as the detection medium, allowing non-contact measurement of the probe's position and enabling precise flatness detection without direct mechanical contact
2Reliability
If the electromagnet works all the time to retract the probe, then the probe maintains detection readiness, but noise is generated and the life of the machine and spring is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet operates periodically rather than continuously. It activates only when probe retraction is needed, remaining inactive during normal operation. This periodic operation eliminates continuous noise generation and reduces wear on the spring and electromagnetic components, while maintaining detection readiness when required
Solution Approach 2:
The spring provides automatic probe extension without electromagnetic assistance during normal operation. The system uses the spring's elastic energy to maintain probe position and achieve retraction readiness, eliminating the need for continuous electromagnet operation and reducing energy consumption and component wear
3Measurement precision
If an active self-leveling platform is used, then flatness detection precision is improved, but the cost is high and it is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex active self-leveling platform with a simplified electromagnetic detection system. The electromagnet and photoelectric sensor combination achieves high-precision flatness measurement through non-contact optical and magnetic field interactions, eliminating the need for complex mechanical self-leveling mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the photoelectric sensor to optically copy and detect the probe's position without physical contact. This optical copying mechanism achieves precise position detection equivalent to complex mechanical systems but with simpler structure and lower cost
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
The device achieves high-precision flatness detection with low energy consumption and reliability, maintaining the probe in a storage state that does not consume power, generate heat, or cause electromagnetic interference, suitable for 3D printers.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet, a cross beam, a probe, and a limiting frame. The limiting frame and the electromagnet are provided side by side on the back plate
Implementation Method 2
A spring is provided between the cross beam and the electromagnet. The spring is movable in a vertical direction by a guide, the movement being at least one of compression and extension
Implementation Method 3
a photoelectric sensor is provided on the circuit board, a light through-hole is provided on the probe. A light of the photoelectric sensor is configured to pass through the light through-hole
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of the disclosure provide a flatness detection device. In an embodiment, the flatness detection device includes a back plate, an electromagnet, a cross beam, a probe, and a limiting frame. The limiting frame and the electromagnet are provided side by side on the back plate. The cross beam is located above the limiting frame and the electromagnet. The probe vertically penetrates the cross beam and the limiting frame. A spring is provided between the cross beam and the electromagnet. The spring is movable in a vertical direction by a guide, the movement being at least one of compression and extension.