Modular 3D Printer Frame With Expandable Print Volume

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D printing technologies are limited by their fixed and varying sizes, requiring multiple printers for different structure sizes, which is inconvenient and inefficient, especially in constrained environments like spacecraft where space and versatility are critical.

Innovation Solution

A modular and expandable 3D printer frame system that allows adjustable print volume through interlocking frame members, modular plates, and adjustable columns, enabling flexible configuration and compact storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed-size 3D printers are used to print different structure sizes, then the printing capability covers a wide range of sizes, but the device complexity and space requirement increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting capability for different structure sizesVSAvoidnumber of printers required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The printer frame is divided into multiple modular components including frame members with coupling members, modular plates, and adjustable columns. These segments can be assembled in different configurations to create printers of various sizes, allowing a single set of components to replace multiple fixed-size printers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular frame components are designed to be universally applicable across different printer configurations. The same frame members, coupling members, and modular plates can be reused to create multiple different printer sizes, making each component serve multiple functions across different printing scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed-size 3D printers are used to print different structure sizes, then the printing capability covers a wide range of sizes, but the space requirement increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting capability for different structure sizesVSAvoidspace requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the printer into modular components that can be assembled in different configurations, the system requires only the space needed for the smallest configuration, yet can expand to accommodate larger printing needs when components are reassembled in different arrangements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The printer configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The frame members and modular plates can be reconfigured between uses to adapt to different printing size requirements, allowing the same physical components to occupy different spatial footprints based on operational needs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Area of stationary object

If a single modular printer is used to print different structure sizes, then the space usage is optimized, but the device complexity increases due to modular components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace usageVSAvoidmodular component assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The modular segmentation is designed with standardized coupling members and frame members that simplify assembly. Rather than increasing complexity, the standardized interfaces and modular design actually reduce the cognitive load of assembly by providing clear, repeatable connection patterns across all components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable columns and modular plates are used to define print volume, then the adaptability for different print volumes is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustable print volumeVSAvoidadjustable column and plate assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable columns incorporate telescopic or segmented designs that allow height adjustment through simple mechanical means. The modular plates can be positioned at different locations on the frame members using standardized coupling mechanisms, enabling dynamic reconfiguration of print volume without complex control systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12162218B2Modular expandable 3D printer

Publication Date: 2024.12.10 BOARD OF RGT NEVADA SYST OF HIGHER EDUCATION ON BEHALF OF THE UNIV OF NEVADA RENO

AI summary

A modular and expandable 3D printer frame includes frame members to be coupled together to form a base defining an inner area. Each frame member includes at least one coupling member to removably couple the frame member to another of the frame members. The printer frame further includes first modular plates to be disposed within the inner area, and second modular plates to be disposed within the inner area and removably coupled to the first modular plates. The first and second modular plates, when coupled together, define a printer footprint.