Multi-Wavelength 3D Printing via Light Combiner Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photocurable molding technologies are limited to single-color three-dimensional printing due to the use of non-replaceable liquid photosensitive resin and fixed wavelength light beams, preventing the achievement of multi-color three-dimensional printing effects.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional printing apparatus and method that utilizes a liquid photosensitive material containing various photoinitiators and a projecting structure with a light combiner module and light valve to provide molding beams of different wavelengths, allowing for the formation of solidified layers with distinct colors by selecting specific wavelengths for polymerization, enabling multi-color printing without additional surface processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional liquid photosensitive resin is polymerized by a fixed wavelength light beam, then the object surface is smooth and fine, but the object can only be printed in single color
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the light beam to achieve different printing colors. By using a light source that can emit multiple wavelengths (e.g., 385nm, 405nm, 420nm) and selecting specific wavelengths for different printing layers, the system achieves multi-color printing while maintaining the smooth surface quality characteristic of photocurable molding technology
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the light source multi-functional by enabling it to emit multiple wavelengths and the liquid photosensitive resin to respond to different wavelengths with different color outcomes. This allows a single printing system to perform both single-color and multi-color printing tasks, achieving versatility without requiring completely separate printing systems for each color
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources with different wavelengths are used to achieve multi-color printing, then color variety is improved, but the printing process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially switching between different wavelengths in a planned sequence. The light source emits different wavelengths at different time periods corresponding to different printing layers or regions, allowing multi-color printing to be achieved through time-multiplexed wavelength selection rather than simultaneous multi-wavelength exposure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics into the printing system by making the light wavelength adjustable and switchable during the printing process. The system dynamically selects appropriate wavelengths based on the current printing requirements, enabling flexible color changes without requiring physical replacement of light sources or materials during printing
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light source wavelength is changed to achieve different colors, then color variety is improved, but the precision of wavelength selection must be maintained to ensure printing quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and control the light source wavelength during printing. By continuously detecting the actual wavelength being emitted and comparing it with the target wavelength, the system can make real-time adjustments to maintain precise wavelength selection, ensuring that color accuracy is preserved even when switching between different wavelengths
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
Enables the creation of three-dimensional objects with smooth, fine surfaces and multiple colors by varying the wavelengths of molding beams, allowing for sequential or simultaneous color changes in solidified layers, thus overcoming the limitations of single-color printing.
Implementation Method 1
The light combiner module is configured to transmit the variety of light beams toward the light valve in the same direction
Implementation Method 2
light beam is used to irradiate liquid photosensitive resin, such that the liquid photosensitive resin is polymerized and solidified to form an object
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional printing apparatus includes a container and a projecting structure. The container is configured to contain a liquid photosensitive material. The projecting structure is configured to provide a variety of molding beams to irradiate the liquid photosensitive material. The photoinitiator is suitable for polymerizing with a monomer after receiving the first molding beam with the first wavelength to form a solidified layer with a first color, and the photoinitiator is suitable for polymerizing with the monomer after receiving the second molding beam with the second wavelength to form a solidified layer with a second color, wherein the first color is different from the second color. The projecting structure comprises a light combiner module, disposed on the transmission paths of a variety of light beams. The wavelengths of the first molding beam and the second molding beam are between 355 nm to 415 nm.