Multi-Color Volumetric 3D Printing with Single-Source Light Sheets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing volumetric 3D printing apparatuses for multi-color photopolymerization of photocurable resins require complex setups with multiple light sources and light sheet generators, leading to increased installation space and cost, and often result in non-uniform light intensity distribution.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus utilizing a single light source and a light sheet generator to produce multiple light sheets with controlled intensity distribution, achieved through a combination of optical elements and beam manipulation techniques, including beam combining, deflection, and reflection, to ensure uniform light overlap and efficient photopolymerization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple light sources and light sheet generators are used to generate multiple light sheets, then the light sheets can extend in different directions and overlap to improve printing quality, but the device complexity increases and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sheets into a single overlapping region by using a single light source that emits light in multiple directions simultaneously. The light sheets are generated by directing light through different optical paths (mirrors, lenses) that converge in the formation zone, eliminating the need for multiple separate light sources and their associated control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A single light source performs multiple functions by emitting light that is directed through different optical elements to create multiple light sheets. The same light source serves all light sheet generation needs, and the optical system allows one light source to fulfill the role of multiple coordinated light sources through beam splitting and directional control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to generate multiple light sheets, then different directions of light extension can be achieved, but the cost of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple light sources into a single light source by using optical elements (mirrors, beam splitters, lenses) to direct light in multiple directions. This consolidation reduces the number of expensive light sources needed while maintaining the ability to create light sheets extending in different directions through clever optical path design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to generate multiple light sheets, then multiple directions of light extension can be achieved, but the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light sheet generation functions into a compact optical system using a single light source with associated mirrors and lenses. This consolidation significantly reduces the installation space required compared to having multiple separate light sources and their supporting infrastructure, while still achieving light sheets in multiple directions through the optical paths.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to generate multiple light sheets, then multiple directions of light extension can be achieved, but the synchronization and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light sheet generation operations into a single light source system, eliminating the need for complex synchronization between multiple independent light sources. The control system only needs to manage one light source while using passive optical elements (mirrors, beam splitters) to distribute light in multiple directions, greatly simplifying the control architecture and operational complexity.
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
The solution provides a simpler, cost-effective setup for volumetric 3D printing with improved light intensity uniformity, resulting in higher resolution and quality of printed objects.
Implementation Method 1
achieved through a combination of optical elements and beam manipulation techniques, including beam combining, deflection, and reflection
Implementation Method 2
achieved through a combination of optical elements and beam manipulation techniques, including beam combining, deflection, and reflection
Implementation Method 3
achieved through a combination of optical elements and beam manipulation techniques, including beam combining, deflection, and reflection
Implementation Method 4
irradiating a photocurable resin with light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, different from the first wavelength, wherein the light of the first wavelength and the light of the second wavelength intersect in at least one formation zone in which the photocurable resin is solidified to form at least a part of the three-dimensional object to be printed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An apparatus for volumetric 3d-printing a three-dimensional object by multi-color photopolymerization of a photocurable resin.