Glossy 3D Printed Surfaces via Monomer Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D inkjet printing methods often result in a matte appearance and surface inconsistencies due to the mixing of model and support materials, which negatively affect the appearance and durability of the finished object.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the selective deposition of a multifunctional acrylic monomer for the body region and a monofunctional hydrophilic acrylic monomer for the support region, allowing them to mix and form an intermediate layer that is cured and then dissolved, leaving a glossy surface on the 3D object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If model and support materials are deposited simultaneously in contact, then fabrication efficiency is improved, but surface quality deteriorates due to mixing and roughness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different material compositions in different regions: the model region contains multifunctional acrylic monomers for structural integrity, while the support region contains monofunctional hydrophilic acrylic monomers for easy removal. This spatial differentiation prevents harmful mixing at the interface while maintaining fabrication efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the materials by selecting specific monomer types with different functional groups. The model material uses multifunctional monomers (diacrylates, triacrylates, tetraacrylates) while the support material uses monofunctional hydrophilic monomers (acrylamides). This parameter change enables selective dissolution and prevents surface degradation from material mixing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If support material is removed completely, then fabrication flexibility is improved, but surface appearance deteriorates due to exposed rough interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of material mixing at the interface into a beneficial outcome. The controlled mixing of model and support materials creates an intermediate region that, after support removal, forms a glossy surface layer. This transforms the usual defect (rough interface) into a desired surface finish.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent discards the support material region after fabrication is complete, utilizing its water-soluble property. The dissolution of the support region leaves behind a glossy intermediate layer that becomes part of the final object's surface, recovering the aesthetic quality that would otherwise be lost.
3Reliability
If conventional coatings are applied to prevent moisture damage, then durability is improved, but surface appearance deteriorates due to matte finish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the 3D printed object to serve its own surface finishing needs without external coatings. The intermediate region formed during fabrication automatically provides the glossy surface appearance through its inherent material properties, eliminating the need for separate coating processes that would compromise appearance.
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 approach enables the creation of a glossy surface on 3D objects without additional post-processing, enhancing both the appearance and durability by preventing material mixing and micro-scratches.
Implementation Method 1
curing is carried out by at least one of ultraviolet radiation, radiofrequency, chemical reaction and heat
Implementation Method 2
the dried intermediate region provides a glossy surface on the body region of the three-dimensional object
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and formulations of building a three-dimensional object with a glossy surface, the method may include: selectively depositing a first material in a plurality of layers to form a body region of the three-dimensional object, wherein said first material comprises a multifunctional acrylic monomer; selectively depositing a second material in a plurality of layers to form a support region, wherein said second material comprises a monofunctional hydrophilic acrylic monomer and does not comprise a multifunctional acrylic monomer; curing each of the deposited layers, wherein in at least one of the deposited layers the first material and the second material mix to form an intermediate region at their mutual interface; dissolving the support region in an aqueous solution; and drying the body region and the intermediate region, whereby the dried intermediate region provides a glossy surface on the body region of said three-dimensional object.