Polar Coordinate 3D Printer with Telescoping Boom
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D printing technologies for building construction lack the capability to efficiently construct large structures with complex geometries using concrete-based materials, as they are limited by their motion systems and anchoring requirements, which restrict their ability to print beyond small parts and simple geometries.
Innovation Solution
A 3D printing device that operates in polar coordinates with a telescoping boom arm and counterweight mechanism, allowing for rotational and translational motions in the XOY plane and vertical movements along the Z axis, enabling the extruder to move freely within a 20-meter radius without anchoring, and featuring a rotary connector and special rotary trowel for high-quality printing of straight, curved, and spherical sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional Cartesian coordinate system is used for 3D printing, then the printing head can move in straight lines along fixed axes, but the device cannot efficiently construct large structures with complex geometries and requires external support and anchoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional Cartesian coordinate system to a polar coordinate system for controlling the printing head movement. This dimensional change allows the printing head to move in circular paths around a central axis, enabling construction of large structures with complex geometries without requiring external support and anchoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic motion system where the printing head can rotate around a central axis while moving radially outward and vertically. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to various geometries and construct large structures efficiently, overcoming the limitations of fixed-axis Cartesian movement.
2Manufacturing precision
If the printing head is constrained to move only in straight lines along fixed axes, then the device structure remains simple, but the printing precision and efficiency for complex geometries is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing polar coordinates with radial and angular components, the system gains the ability to precisely control the printing head position for complex geometries. The radial distance from the central axis and the angular position allow for accurate placement of material along curved paths and spherical surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The polar coordinate system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls the printing head position, determines the construction trajectory, and enables both radial and vertical movement. This multi-functionality improves manufacturing precision for complex geometries while managing operational complexity through a unified coordinate system.
3Reliability
If external support and anchoring are used to stabilize the printing device, then the device can maintain stability during printing, but the ability to print beyond small parts and simple geometries is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a counterweight mechanism that balances the printing head and extruder assembly during rotation and movement. This counterweight system maintains device stability during printing operations without requiring external support structures, enabling the device to construct large and complex structures freely.
Solution Approach 2:
The polar coordinate system allows the printing head to move in three-dimensional space around a central axis, creating a self-contained printing zone that does not require external support. The radial and vertical movement capabilities enable construction of large structures while the counterweight maintains stability throughout the printing process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a telescoping boom arm with rotational and translational motions is used, then the extruder can move freely within a 20-meter radius without anchoring, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping boom arm system implements polar coordinate movement with radial extension and rotational capability around a central axis. This dimensional approach enables the extruder to reach any position within a 20-meter radius without anchoring, providing free movement for constructing large structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping boom arm is divided into segmented sections that can extend and retract independently. This segmentation allows the arm to achieve the required 20-meter reach while maintaining manageable complexity through modular construction and controlled movement of each segment.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is in the field of automated 3D printing of buildings or structures and method of its operation. A 3D printer having an extendable boom arm with an extruder for extruding a concrete-based chemical solution moves with translational and rotational motion in an XOY plane. The extendable boom arm is mounted such that it is capable of height adjustment in a XOZ plane. The invention also regards a method for automated 3D printing of a building or structure using the 3D printer.