Powder Delivery Assembly Merges Subsystems for AM Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional powder delivery systems in additive manufacturing rely on multiple components in series, leading to reliability issues as the failure of one component can cause the entire system to fail, and there is a need to reduce the number of subsystems to enhance reliability.
Innovation Solution
A powder delivery system comprising a powder hopper, linear vibration system, diverter, doser, and recoater, controlled by a processor and memory unit, which reduces the number of subsystems and improves reliability by efficiently delivering and distributing powder for additive manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used in series for powder delivery, then the powder can be delivered and distributed, but the reliability of the system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple powder delivery functions into a single integrated hopper assembly that includes the hopper, vibration system, diverter, doser, and recoater as one unified subsystem. This merging of previously separate components into a single integrated unit reduces the number of subsystems in series, thereby improving reliability while maintaining the necessary powder delivery and distribution capabilities.
2Productivity
If multiple components work in series, then powder delivery and distribution can be achieved, but the risk of system failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hopper assembly merges the vibration system, diverter, doser, and recoater into a single coordinated subsystem, reducing the number of failure points while maintaining efficient powder delivery and distribution capabilities throughout the additive manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If the number of subsystems is reduced, then reliability improves, but the capability to deliver and distribute powder may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hopper assembly combines multiple functions (powder storage, vibration, diversion, dosing, and recoating) into a single unified subsystem that maintains all necessary capabilities for efficient powder delivery and distribution while reducing the overall number of separate subsystems in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The hopper assembly is designed as a multi-functional integrated unit that performs multiple operations (storage, vibration, diversion, dosing, and recoating) within a single subsystem, providing universal capability for powder delivery while reducing system complexity and improving reliability.
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 system enhances reliability by minimizing the number of components in series, ensuring consistent powder delivery and distribution, thereby improving the efficiency and reducing the risk of system failure.
Implementation Method 1
a linear vibration system disposed on the frame and connected to the powder hopper, the linear vibration system configured to receive and transport a first portion of the total volume of the material powder from the powder hopper
Data Source
AI summary
A powder supple and delivery (PSD) system used in additive manufacturing, the PSD system comprising a powder hopper, a linear vibration system, a diverter, a doser, and a recoater. The PSD system is also electrically coupled to the processor, where the memory unit is coupled to the processor, which includes the instructions to control the PSD system.