Multi-Path Processing Nozzle for Simultaneous Powder Ejection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing processing nozzles can only eject one type of powder at a time, leading to segregation issues when multiple powders are mixed and supplied, which hinders the implementation of desired compositions.

Innovation Solution

A processing nozzle design with multiple supply paths of different diameters inside an outer housing, allowing for the simultaneous ejection of multiple types of powders to a molten pool, along with a converging device for the laser beam and a material supplier for precise control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If multiple types of powders are mixed and supplied through a single supply path, then the device complexity is reduced, but segregation occurs during supply and the desired composition cannot be implemented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenozzle structureVSAvoidpowder composition
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The single supply path is segmented into multiple independent supply paths (first supply path, second supply path, third supply path) within the nozzle. Each supply path can independently supply different types of powders to the molten pool, preventing segregation while maintaining compositional stability. The inner housing and outer housing create distinct channels that allow simultaneous supply of multiple powder types without mixing them prematurely.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If only one supply path is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but only one type of powder can be supplied at once

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupply path configurationVSAvoidpowder type variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The processing nozzle is designed with multi-functionality to supply multiple types of powders simultaneously through different supply paths. The first supply path (gap between inner and outer housing), second supply path (inside inner housing), and third supply path (inside outer housing) enable the nozzle to handle diverse powder types including different materials and particle sizes, making the device versatile for various processing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The supply path is divided into multiple independent channels (first, second, and third supply paths) that can independently supply different powder types. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for specific powder characteristics, enabling simultaneous supply of up to three different powder types without cross-contamination or interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Manufacturing precision

If powders are supplied through a single path, then the manufacturing precision is simplified, but the shaping accuracy and speed are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepowder supply controlVSAvoidshaping speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The single supply path is divided into multiple independent supply paths with different diameters and configurations. This allows precise control over the supply rate and distribution of each powder type independently, improving shaping accuracy while enabling simultaneous supply of multiple powders to increase productivity and processing speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different supply paths are designed with different diameters and characteristics to match specific powder requirements. The first supply path (gap between housings), second supply path (inside inner housing), and third supply path (inside outer housing) can be optimized for different powder types, particle sizes, and supply rates, allowing precise local control over material deposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3159094B1Processing nozzle, processing head, processing device
Publication Date: 2019.05.08 TECH RES ASSOC FOR FUTURE ADDITIVE MFG
  • EP3159094B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3159094B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3159094B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed is a processing nozzle for simultaneously ejecting a plurality of types of powder materials. This processing nozzle is a processing nozzle used to eject a powder material to a molten pool formed on a process surface by a laser beam, and includes an inner housing that forms an optical path to pass the laser beam, and an outer housing arranged while being separated from the inner housing by a gap serving as a first supply path of the powder material. A second supply path of the powder material and a third supply path having a diameter different from the second supply path are provided inside the outer housing.