Pliable 3D Print Surface for Damage-Free Object Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
3-D printed objects often stick to the printing surface, making them difficult to remove without damage, especially when printing multiple objects in succession.
Innovation Solution
A pliable build surface with a flex layer, adhesive layer, and binding layer is used, allowing for easy detachment of printed objects by bending and peeling, and can be reused for subsequent prints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rigid printing surface is used, then print stability is maintained, but printed objects stick to the surface and become difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The printing surface is transformed from a rigid static structure to a dynamic flexible membrane that can change its physical state. The flexible membrane print surface allows the system to transition between a flat stable state during printing and a bent peeling state during object removal, resolving the contradiction between maintaining print stability and enabling easy object removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the printing surface by using a flexible membrane instead of a rigid surface. This membrane can be bent, stretched, and returned to its original shape, allowing it to provide stable printing surface area while enabling easy removal of printed objects through bending and peeling actions.
2Ease of operation
If excessive force is applied to remove printed objects, then objects can be detached, but the objects may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible membrane acts as an intermediary between the printed object and the printing apparatus. During removal, the membrane is bent to create peeling forces that detach the object without requiring direct application of excessive force to the object itself, thus protecting object integrity while enabling easy detachment.
3Productivity
If a build surface is used for multiple prints, then productivity increases, but the surface may deteriorate or require replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane as the build surface that can be repeatedly bent, stretched, and returned to its original shape. This flexible membrane structure maintains its integrity and printing surface properties across multiple print cycles, enabling high productivity through repeated use without the deterioration that would occur with rigid surfaces.
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 easy and damage-free removal of printed objects without requiring tools or excessive force, while maintaining print stability and allowing for efficient reuse of the build surface.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive layer for adhering the first layer to the binding layer
Implementation Method 2
a flex layer, a binding layer, and an adhesive layer connecting the flex layer to the binding layer
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the invention may relate to a print surface for a three-dimensional object printer. The print surface may comprise an elastic first layer, a binding layer for securing the printing surface to the three-dimensional object printer; and an adhesive layer for adhering the first layer to the binding layer. Three-dimensional objects are printed onto the first layer by controlled extrusion of molten material. Printed objects can be obtained by decoupling the binding layer from the three-dimensional object printer and detaching the object from the first layer by applying bending moments.