Modular 3D Printer Z-Axis with Independent Positioning Units
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D printing methods face challenges with the high technical effort required for sealing the build container and the increasing weight and frictional forces as the build platform lowers, leading to imprecise manufacturing and high costs due to the need for welded constructions.
Innovation Solution
A device with a support frame that allows independent adjustment and movement of positioning units for the coater and print head, using a modular design with light metal plates and ball-joint pivoting bearings to achieve precise Z-axis movement without the need for exact alignment or welding, reducing weight and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a build container with a lowerable build platform is used, then 3D printing can be performed, but the sealing requirement between the platform and chamber wall increases the technical effort and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of lowering the build platform into the chamber (conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by keeping the platform stationary and lowering the coating apparatus and print head towards the platform. This eliminates the need for complex sealing mechanisms between the platform and chamber wall, as the platform remains fixed and exposed to the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the system into separate functional modules: a stationary build platform, a movable coating apparatus, and a movable print head. Each component can be independently positioned and adjusted, reducing the overall system complexity compared to a monolithic design with integrated sealing requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If the build platform is lowered to apply new layers, then layer thickness can be adjusted, but the weight and frictional forces increase leading to high loads for guides and drives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by keeping the build platform stationary and instead lowering the coating apparatus and print head. This eliminates the need to move heavy platforms through friction-prone interfaces, significantly reducing the forces required for positioning while maintaining precise layer thickness control through the movable coating and printing mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If a welded construction is used for the Z axis structure, then manufacturing accuracy can be achieved, but the cost and difficulty of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the Z axis structure into separate, modular components that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex welded constructions while maintaining positioning accuracy through precise mechanical interfaces and adjustment mechanisms, significantly reducing manufacturing cost and installation difficulty.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for manufacturing three-dimensional models by means of a 3D printing process, whereby a build platform for application of build material is provided and a support frame is arranged around the build platform, to which said support frame at least one device for dosing the particulate material and one device for bonding the particulate material is attached via the guiding elements and the support frame is moveable in a Z direction, which essentially means perpendicular to the base surface of the build platform, said movement provided by at least two vertical positioning units on the support frame. In this respect, it is provided that the positioning units are respectively separate components and are arrangeable on the support frame independently from one another and the location and orientation of such can be adjusted independently from one another.