Fluorescent Optical Scanning for Translucent 3D-Printed Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transparent or translucent polymeric materials in additive manufacturing are difficult to scan accurately using laser profilometry due to low light reflection or scattering, leading to inadequate depth map generation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporate fluorescent components into the materials being scanned, causing optical signals to be emitted and sensed, allowing for the differentiation and identification of different materials based on their spectral characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contactless optical measurement is used, then measurement speed and reliability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contactless optical measurement systems with mechanical probe-based measurement systems. The optical sensor array and complex image processing infrastructure are substituted with simple mechanical probes that physically contact the workpiece, eliminating the need for complex optical hardware and software while maintaining measurement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple mechanical probes that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than expensive optical measurement systems. These simple probes perform sufficient measurement tasks without requiring complex infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity and cost.
2Measurement precision
If complex optical hardware and software are deployed, then measurement precision improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, inexpensive mechanical probes instead of complex optical hardware. These probes are straightforward to operate and maintain, eliminating the need for specialized training required for complex optical systems while providing sufficient measurement precision for industrial applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical probe system requires minimal operator intervention and training. The probes are designed to be self-explanatory and easy to position, allowing operators to perform measurements without needing to understand complex optical principles or software configurations.
3Productivity
If contactless optical measurement is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple mechanical probes that enable rapid measurement without the overhead of complex optical systems. The probes can quickly contact and measure workpiece features, achieving high productivity through their simplicity and direct measurement approach rather than through complex optical processing.
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
Enhances the ability to accurately map the surface and internal structures of multi-material objects by improving signal quality and enabling precise control of the additive manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor array including a plurality of two-dimensional (2D) sensors arranged in a sensor grid pattern and configured to detect light reflected from the workpiece
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for additive manufacturing includes forming an object including depositing a first material including a first coloring component and a second material including a second coloring component, wherein both the first material and the second material further include a corresponding fluorescent component, scanning the object, including causing an emission of an optical signal from the object, wherein the emission of the optical signal is caused at least in part by an emission from the fluorescent components interacting with the first coloring component and the second coloring component as it passes from the fluorescent components to the surface of the object, sensing the emission of the optical signal, and determining presence of the first material and the second material based at least in part on the sensed emission of the optical signal.