Multi-Nozzle Additive Manufacturing Device with Rotational Table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing additive manufacturing devices with a nozzle or workpiece on a multi-joint robot arm face inefficiencies due to complex control requirements, limited operational range, and interference with the manufacturing process.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an additive manufacturing device with a rotatable table and multiple nozzles that can move and rotate independently in various axes, allowing for simultaneous or sequential use of multiple powder materials and laser beams to form complex shapes without tilting the table or using jigs, thereby simplifying control and increasing manufacturing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single multi-joint robot arm is used to position the nozzle or workpiece, then the device structure is simplified, but the control becomes complicated and the operational range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single robot arm system into multiple independent robot arms (first robot arm and second robot arm), each responsible for positioning specific nozzles. This segmentation simplifies the control of each individual arm while expanding the overall operational range and eliminating interference issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotational table that rotates about a vertical axis, adding a new dimension of motion to the system. This allows nozzles to approach the workpiece from different directions and angles, expanding the operational range without increasing the complexity of individual robot arm controls.
2Device complexity
If a single multi-joint robot arm is used to position the nozzle or workpiece, then the device structure is simplified, but the operational range is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single robot arm system into multiple independent robot arms (first robot arm and second robot arm), each responsible for positioning specific nozzles. This segmentation simplifies the control of each individual arm while expanding the overall operational range and eliminating interference issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotational table that rotates about a vertical axis, adding a new dimension of motion to the system. This allows nozzles to approach the workpiece from different directions and angles, expanding the operational range without increasing the complexity of individual robot arm controls.
3Device complexity
If a single multi-joint robot arm is used to position the nozzle or workpiece, then the device structure is simplified, but interference with the manufacturing process occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single robot arm system into multiple independent robot arms (first robot arm and second robot arm), each responsible for positioning specific nozzles. This segmentation simplifies the control of each individual arm while expanding the overall operational range and eliminating interference issues.
4Productivity
If multiple nozzles are used to manufacture objects simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single robot arm system into multiple independent robot arms (first robot arm and second robot arm), each responsible for positioning specific nozzles. This segmentation simplifies the control of each individual arm while expanding the overall operational range and eliminating interference issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple nozzles that can be positioned by separate robot arms, allowing simultaneous manufacturing of different parts of an object or multiple objects. This multi-functional approach increases productivity while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular architecture.
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
This configuration enhances the ability to control crystal orientation, forms anisotropic materials with specific strength directions, and reduces manufacturing time by allowing layers to be stacked in various directions without tilting the table or using supports, thus improving the efficiency and range of additive manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
emit a laser beam to melt or sinter the material
Implementation Method 2
emit a laser beam to melt or sinter the material
Implementation Method 3
emit a laser beam to melt or sinter the material
Data Source
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AI summary
An additive manufacturing device according to one embodiment is provided with: a base for supporting an article to undergo additive manufacturing; and a forming unit that has a first nozzle movable with respect to the base and a second nozzle movable with respect to the base and also movable with respect to the first nozzle, and forms the article to be supported on the base by discharging powder from at least one of the first nozzle and the second nozzle and emitting energy rays from at least one of the first nozzle and the second nozzle so that the powder is fused or sintered.