Object Holder with Sliding Back Support and Adjustable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct-to-object print systems face challenges in securely retaining objects of varying sizes and shapes during printing, as they lack effective mechanisms to stabilize the object within the printer.
Innovation Solution
The development of an object holder with a back support that slides along a support member parallel to the printhead, featuring top and bottom arms with retention bits, such as suction cups or adjustable connectors, to securely hold objects of different sizes and shapes, along with an actuator to move the object holder past the printhead and a controller to manage the printing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple object holder structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to securely retain objects of varying sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The object holder is divided into multiple independent arms (first arm, second arm, third arm, fourth arm) that can move and adjust independently. Each arm can be positioned separately to accommodate different object sizes and shapes, providing secure retention without requiring a complex monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The arms of the object holder are configured to be movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment to match the contours and dimensions of various objects. This dynamic capability enables reliable retention of diverse objects while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the object holder is designed to accommodate diverse object shapes and sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The object holder uses a universal arm structure where multiple arms perform similar functions but can be independently positioned. This multi-functional design allows the same basic arm mechanism to accommodate various object types, sizes, and shapes without requiring entirely different holder configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the object holder (different arms) can be independently adjusted to provide localized adaptation to specific portions of an object. This allows the holder to conform to irregular shapes and varying dimensions without requiring the entire structure to be complex.
3Ease of manufacture
If the object holder structure is simplified, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the precision of object positioning and retention deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the object holder into multiple independent arms, each arm can be manufactured using standard, simple components. The segmentation allows for easier fabrication of individual arms while the collective arrangement of these simple segments achieves precise object positioning and retention.
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 secure and precise printing on objects of diverse shapes and sizes by ensuring stable retention and controlled movement, enhancing the reliability and versatility of direct-to-object print systems.
Implementation Method 1
At least one retention bit is attached to each of the top and bottom arms for collectively retaining the object to the object holder
Implementation Method 2
retention bits, such as suction cups or adjustable connectors, to securely hold objects
Data Source
AI summary
What is disclosed is an object holder for retaining an object in a direct-to-object print system and a direct-to-object print system configured to use various embodiments of the object holder of the present invention. In one embodiment, the object holder has a back support configured to slideably traverse a support member positioned parallel to a plane formed by at least one printhead configured to eject marking material on to a surface of an object. A top and bottom arm are attached to the back support. At least one retention bit is attached to each of the top and bottom arms for collectively retaining the object to the object holder.