Modular Tile Deflection Member for Durable Fibrous Web Formation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a deflection member with a three-dimensional topography created by additive manufacturing that can withstand the harsh processing environment of papermaking or nonwoven web making machines, including extreme temperatures, tensions, and chemicals, while also improving the size and durability of such members for commercial use.
Innovation Solution
A deflection member comprising a reinforcing member with a resin coating and a plurality of tiles fastened to the resin coating, where the tiles are manufactured using additive manufacturing processes such as 3-D printing, providing a patterned framework with voids and protuberances that define deflection conduits, and are securely attached using stitching, riveting, adhesive, or solvent welding to ensure durability and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If additive manufacturing is used to create three-dimensional topography on deflection members, then surface area and fibrous web formation capability are improved, but durability and size for commercial use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection member is divided into modular components: a base layer providing structural support and multiple additive manufacturing layers creating the three-dimensional topography. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently - the base layer for durability and the top layers for surface area and fibrous web formation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection member uses composite construction combining materials with different properties - a durable base material providing structural integrity and additional materials through additive manufacturing that provide the desired three-dimensional topography and surface area for fibrous web formation.
2Area of moving object
If additive manufacturing is used to create three-dimensional topography on deflection members, then surface area and fibrous web formation capability are improved, but size capability for commercial papermaking machines deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional flat deflection members to three-dimensional structures through additive manufacturing. This dimensional change increases surface area without proportionally increasing the footprint size, allowing the deflection member to meet the requirements of commercial papermaking machines while providing enhanced fibrous web formation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A deflection member that includes a reinforcing member and a plurality of tiles fastened to the reinforcing member.