3D Lamination Apparatus Intermediate Powder Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for supplying powder to a shaping chamber in three-dimensional laminated and shaped object manufacturing interrupt the processing of shaping, and those using an inert gas atmosphere have limitations.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional laminating and shaping apparatus with a load lock chamber and valve control system that temporarily stores powder and controls atmosphere, allowing continuous supply without interrupting the shaping process by matching the vacuum conditions between the load lock and process chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If powder is supplied to the shaping chamber using existing techniques, then the shaping process can be performed, but the processing must be interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the powder supply function into two independent parts: a powder supply container inside the shaping chamber and a powder storage container outside. This segmentation allows the internal supply to continue during shaping while external replenishment occurs separately, eliminating processing interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
A transfer chamber is introduced as an intermediary between the external powder storage and the internal powder supply container. This mediator allows powder to be transferred to the internal container when the shaping process is paused, enabling continuous operation without direct external intervention during active shaping.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lock flushed by inert gas is used for powder supply, then powder can be supplied from external reservoir, but the system requires inert gas atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the atmospheric parameter by maintaining vacuum conditions in both the shaping chamber and transfer chamber instead of using inert gas. This parameter change simplifies the system by eliminating the need for inert gas supply and flushing mechanisms while still enabling controlled powder transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses vacuum as an inert environment to prevent oxidation and contamination of the powder during transfer and storage. This approach provides the protective atmosphere needed for sensitive powders without requiring complex inert gas management systems.
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
Enables uninterrupted and continuous powder supply to the shaping chamber, enhancing the efficiency and speed of the three-dimensional laminated and shaped object manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
the atmosphere control unit (105) controls an atmosphere in the intermediate powder storage (103) so that the atmosphere in the intermediate powder storage (103) is the same as that in the shaping chamber (101)
Data Source
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AI summary
A powder is supplied to a shaping chamber without interrupting processing of shaping a three-dimensional laminated and shaped object. A three-dimensional laminating and shaping apparatus includes a shaping chamber in which a three-dimensional laminated and shaped object is shaped, a powder storage that stores a powder conveyed to the shaping chamber, an intermediate powder storage that is provided between the shaping chamber and the powder storage, is connected to the shaping chamber via a first valve, is connected to the powder storage via a second valve, and temporarily stores the powder, a valve controller that controls opening/closing of each of the first valve and the second valve, and an atmosphere controller that controls an atmosphere in the intermediate powder storage and an atmosphere in the shaping chamber.