Mobile Additive Manufacturing Apparatus for Large-Scale Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current additive manufacturing technologies are limited by the dimensions of objects that can be produced, as they are often restricted by the workspace and mobility of the manufacturing apparatus, which hinders the creation of complex shapes and large-scale structures.
Innovation Solution
The development of a mobile additive manufacturing apparatus, referred to as Addibot, which incorporates an omnidirectional drive system, navigation, and artificial intelligence to autonomously move and deposit materials across surfaces, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and large-scale structures without physical tethers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional additive manufacturing apparatus are used with fixed workspaces, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the dimensions of objects that can be produced are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional stationary additive manufacturing apparatus into a mobile robot that can dynamically move across the work surface. The robot platform incorporates wheeled mobility with navigation capabilities, allowing it to dynamically reposition itself while maintaining manufacturing precision through active control systems and real-time localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of mobility to the traditional two-dimensional workspace by enabling the manufacturing apparatus to move freely across the surface in multiple directions. This transforms the workspace from a fixed planar area to an expansive three-dimensional navigable space, dramatically increasing the dimensions of producible objects.
2Length of stationary object
If the apparatus is made mobile to expand workspace, then the dimensions of producible objects increase, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile additive manufacturing system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a mobile robot platform with navigation system, a material deposition system, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture, managing complexity while enabling expanded workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot platform serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mobility to access different workspace areas, carries the material deposition apparatus, and incorporates navigation and localization capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment, thereby managing system complexity.
3Productivity
If autonomous mobility is implemented, then productivity and efficiency improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile additive manufacturing robot is equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities including localization systems, path planning algorithms, and obstacle detection. This self-service capability allows the robot to independently navigate the workspace and position itself for manufacturing operations without external guidance, improving productivity while the modular architecture manages the inherent complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides various advancements for mobile and automated processing utilizing additive manufacturing. The present disclosure includes methods for the utilization of mobile and automated processing apparatus and may include examples of sealcoating operations. In some examples, omnidirectional drive systems such as Mecanum wheels may create novel operational aspects. Artificial intelligence techniques may enhance operations and may be used to create model for the processing apparatus.