Direct Measuring Unit Flexible Coupling for 3D Printer Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing additively manufacturing apparatuses face challenges in accurately determining the position and travel distance of movable components, leading to positioning errors and imperfections in three-dimensional objects due to the need for direct connection and specific space allocation for measurement units.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a direct measuring unit coupled with a movable component via a flexible and low-elongation coupling means, allowing for arbitrary arrangement and redirection of the measurement unit, which can be preloaded and adjusted for optimal movement transfer without requiring direct connection or specific space, utilizing optical or magnetic measuring systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a direct measuring unit is directly connected to the movable component, then measurement precision is improved, but the apparatus requires more space and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible coupling means (such as a flexible cable or linkage) is introduced as an intermediary between the movable component and the direct measuring unit. This coupling means is characterized by low elongation properties, allowing it to transmit positional information accurately while physically decoupling the measuring unit from direct attachment to the movable component. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement precision through the flexible intermediary while avoiding the complexity and space requirements of direct connection.
2Manufacturing precision
If the measuring unit is directly connected to the movable component, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the apparatus requires specific space allocation for the measurement unit
Solution Approach 1:
The direct measuring unit is extracted from its traditional position of being directly attached to the movable component and relocated to a separate, fixed position within the apparatus. The flexible coupling means serves as a transmission mechanism that allows the measuring unit to be positioned independently, freeing up space in the build chamber and allowing more flexible spatial arrangement of apparatus components while maintaining positioning accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible coupling means is used to connect the measuring unit, then adaptability and arrangement flexibility are improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to potential elongation
Solution Approach 1:
The key parameter of the flexible coupling means that is controlled is its elongation property. By selecting materials and designs with specifically low elongation characteristics, the coupling means maintains high dimensional stability despite its flexibility. This allows the system to achieve both adaptability in arrangement and precision in measurement, as the coupling means can accommodate different spatial configurations without introducing significant measurement errors through material deformation.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus (1) for additively manufacturing of three-dimensional objects (2) by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material (3) which can be consolidated by means of an energy beam, wherein a direct measuring unit (4) is provided for determining a position and/or a travel distance of at least one moveable component (5) of the apparatus (1).