Granule 3D Printer Multi-Container Feeding for Fast Material Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional printers using granules face limitations in efficiently switching between different types of materials, leading to downtime for maintenance and reduced productivity due to the need for manual disassembly and contamination risks from residual granules.
Innovation Solution
A granule-based three-dimensional printing equipment with an automatic dispenser containing multiple containers for different types of granules, a movable extruder head, and sensors for controlled refilling and contamination prevention, allowing seamless switching between materials without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a single reservoir with large capacity is used for granule storage, then the printer can operate for longer periods without refilling, but it becomes necessary to manually empty and clean the reservoir when changing material types, leading to downtime and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The single reservoir is segmented into multiple smaller reservoirs, each capable of storing a different type of granule material. This allows the system to switch between materials by selecting different reservoirs without requiring complete emptying and cleaning of a single large reservoir, thus maintaining productivity during material changes while still providing extended operational capacity through the combined volume of multiple reservoirs.
Solution Approach 2:
The reservoir system is designed to be multi-functional, where each reservoir can store different types of granules and the system can automatically select which reservoir to use based on the current printing requirements. This universal design eliminates the need for dedicated single-material reservoirs and enables rapid material switching without manual intervention for cleaning.
2Reliability
If the reservoir is detached for cleaning during material changes, then residual granules can be eliminated, but the disassembly process takes time and reduces printer productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically purging residual granules from the extrusion path before initiating a material change. This preliminary cleaning action eliminates the need for manual disassembly and cleaning of the reservoir, ensuring material purity while minimizing downtime. The purging process is automated and integrated into the material switching sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service cleaning through automated purging mechanisms that clear residual granules from the extrusion path without requiring manual intervention or disassembly of the reservoir. The system performs its own maintenance function during material transitions, ensuring purity while maintaining continuous operation and preventing productivity loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extruder head is attached to the movable carriage for position variation, then printing flexibility is improved, but maintenance or repair of the head requires disassembly, generating additional downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The extruder head assembly is segmented into modular components that can be independently accessed and removed from the movable carriage. This segmentation allows the extruder head to maintain its position variation capability when attached to the carriage for printing operations, while also enabling easy detachment and access for maintenance or repair without requiring disassembly of the entire carriage structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the extruder head and the movable carriage is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the head to be easily attached and detached as needed. This dynamic connection maintains the position variation capability during printing while facilitating quick access for maintenance, reducing downtime without compromising the adaptability of the system.
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 efficiency and versatility by enabling rapid material changes and reducing downtime, ensuring high-quality product variability and increased productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element coupled to said cylinder, fusing the solid thermoplastic granules therein, thus producing a thermoplastic liquid
Implementation Method 2
a conveyor screw of a plurality of solid thermoplastic granules from a hopper to a cylinder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2.1~2.3
Figure 3.1~3.2
AI summary
Granule-based three-dimensional printing equipment, having a three-dimensional printer (1) comprising control software and an extruder head (2), with an extruder screw (3) for conveying the granules from a filling reservoir (5) to a nozzle (6); an inductive sensor (7) and a carriage (8) for moving the extruder head (2); further comprising an automatic granule dispenser (9) for dispensing granules into the filing reservoir (5), which comprises, in turn, two or more containers (10) each of which contains a type of granule; a supporting base (11) for supporting the containers, including an engagement area (12) with a first outlet hole (13); movable attachment means on each container (10); and a device for supplying granules to the filling reservoir (5), comprising a conveyor screw (14) from the first hole (13) to a second hole (15) positioned eccentrically and at a lower height, and a second motor (16).