Foldable 3D Modeled Object With Hinged Self-Locking Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing additive manufacturing methods face challenges in increasing the number of components that can be manufactured in one batch due to shape and size limitations, leading to material loss, increased manufacturing time, and higher costs.
Innovation Solution
The three-dimensional modeled object is designed with a hinge structure that allows it to be manufactured in a folded position, enabling more components to be produced per batch, and a fitting structure that holds the object in an assembled position, facilitating easy assembly and reducing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the three-dimensional modeled object is manufactured in the assembled position, then the component can be produced with proper shape, but the number of components that can be manufactured in one batch is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning the object from its final assembled three-dimensional state to a folded, compact configuration for manufacturing. The hinge structure enables the object to be collapsed into a lower-dimensional footprint, allowing multiple components to be arranged vertically or in stacked configurations within the manufacturing chamber, thereby increasing batch productivity while maintaining manufacturing precision through the additive process
2Productivity
If the three-dimensional modeled object is manufactured in the folded position, then more components can be manufactured in one batch, but additional assembly steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the object into multiple segments connected by hinge structures. This segmentation allows the object to be folded into a compact configuration for manufacturing while maintaining the capability to assemble into its final form. The segmented design with hinges provides the necessary flexibility for both compact storage and easy assembly, resolving the contradiction between increased productivity and assembly complexity
3Area of stationary object
If the three-dimensional modeled object is manufactured in the folded position, then space utilization in the manufacturing machine is improved, but the assembly process requires additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through the fitting structure that enables automatic or manual assembly of the folded object into its assembled position. The external fitting portion and internal fitting portion work together to self-lock the segments in place during assembly, reducing the need for complex external assembly mechanisms and tools. This self-service mechanism maintains ease of operation while maximizing manufacturing chamber space utilization
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional modeled object to be manufactured by additive manufacturing includes a plurality of segments, a hinge structure that couples two adjacent segments among the segments, and a fitting structure including an external fitting portion and an internal fitting portion. The external fitting portion is configured to fit to the internal fitting portion. The three-dimensional modeled object is configured to be displaced between a folded position and an assembled position by the hinge structure. The assembled position is a position in which the three-dimensional modeled object is assembled from the folded position. The three-dimensional modeled object is held in the assembled position by fitting the external fitting portion to the internal fitting portion when the three-dimensional modeled object is in the assembled position.