3D Printing Modifiable Support Structure for Material Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing methods consume excessive material and time due to the need for internal and external supports during the printing process, which increase material usage and processing time, especially for objects with complex shapes like bridges.
Innovation Solution
A 3D printing system with a modifiable structure that adjusts its shape based on the object being printed, using movable sections to support the object during the printing process, reducing the need for additional supports and optimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If traditional 3D printing methods are used with fixed support structures, then the object can be printed, but material consumption increases and printing time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system modifies the support structure during the printing process based on real-time monitoring of the printed object's state, allowing optimal support configuration for each printing stage while minimizing material usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure's physical parameters (shape, height, position) are changed during the printing process. The system monitors the printing progress and adjusts support structure parameters dynamically to match the evolving geometry of the printed object, reducing unnecessary material consumption.
2Productivity
If traditional 3D printing methods are used with fixed support structures, then the object can be printed, but printing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure transitions from a static to a dynamic system that adapts during printing. By monitoring the printing process and adjusting support structures in real-time, the system eliminates unnecessary support material deposition and reduces post-processing time, thereby improving overall printing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary monitoring and planning of support structure modifications before actual printing begins. By pre-calculating optimal support configurations based on the object's geometry, the system avoids time-consuming adjustments during the printing process while maintaining high productivity.
3Reliability
If excessive support material is used, then the object is adequately supported during printing, but material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements real-time feedback monitoring during the printing process to track the printed object's geometry and structural integrity. Based on this feedback, the support structure is dynamically adjusted to provide only the necessary support, eliminating excessive material usage while maintaining adequate support reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure's parameters are continuously optimized based on the printed object's evolving state. By changing support parameters (dimensions, position, density) dynamically, the system maintains reliable support where needed while minimizing material waste in areas where support is less critical.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments for 3D printing an object by a processor are described. An object is selected to be printed by a 3D printer. The 3D printer includes a structure. The structure is modified based on the selected object. The selected object is 3D printed by the 3D printer. At least a portion of the selected object is supported by the modified structure while the selected object is being 3D printed by the 3D printer.