Mobile Powder Module Transfer and Storage in Additive Manufacturing Plants
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects lack an efficient method for automated transport and intermediate storage of powder modules between different workstations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a plurality of workstations, mobile storage units, and driverless conveyor units that enable the automated transport and storage of powder modules, utilizing standardized support devices and communication interfaces for seamless movement and transfer between workstations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual transport and storage of powder modules is used, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity and automation extent deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor unit is equipped with its own drive device and navigation capabilities, enabling it to autonomously transport powder modules between workstations without requiring external manual operation or complex centralized control systems. The unit serves itself by integrating propulsion and control functions directly into the transport carrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport system is divided into independent modular conveyor units, each capable of autonomous operation. This segmentation allows the system to achieve automation through multiple simple, independent units rather than one complex centralized system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high automation extent.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed transport infrastructure is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor units are designed to be mobile and freely movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic repositioning between workstations. This enables the system to adapt to different workstation arrangements and production configurations without requiring complex fixed infrastructure, achieving high adaptability with minimal infrastructure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized conveyor unit design can serve multiple workstations and potentially different process steps, making it a universal transport solution. This multi-functionality allows a single type of conveyor unit to operate across various stations, reducing the need for specialized infrastructure at each location and simplifying the overall system.
3Productivity
If automated conveyor units are deployed, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each conveyor unit is equipped with sufficient drive capability and navigation functions to operate autonomously, but not overly complex systems beyond what is needed for basic autonomous transport. This partial action approach achieves the necessary productivity improvement through simple, adequate automation rather than excessive complexity.
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
Facilitates the efficient and automated transfer of powder modules between workstations, enhancing the flexibility and productivity of additive manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
a power transmission device (14) coupled to the drive device (13), which is configured to transmit the driving force generated by the drive device (13) to a subsurface to generate a movement of the conveyor unit (3) relative to the subsurface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Plant (1) for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, comprising one or more workstations (21) which are set up to carry out at least one work operation within the scope of the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, at least one freely positionable mobile storage unit (2) which comprises a rack-like storage device (4) which comprises at least one storage space (5) which is set up to store at least one powder module (6), in particular for the purpose of transporting the powder module (6) between different workstations (21) of the plant (1), and at least one driverless freely movable mobile conveying unit (3) which comprises a receiving device (12) which is set up to receive at least one mobile storage unit (2) for the purpose of transporting the storage unit (2) between different workstations (21) of the plant (1).