Print and Expansion Device Alignment for 3D Structure Workability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for manufacturing structures using electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layers on print media lack enhanced workability when combining devices for layer formation and irradiation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a print device for forming an electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layer and an expansion device for irradiating the medium, both equipped with suction and discharge parts, aligned laterally and covered by a top plate, with a display unit for improved operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a print device and an expansion device are combined in a system for manufacturing structures, then the functionality and productivity are improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the print device and expansion device into a single integrated system where both devices share a common operational framework. The print device forms electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layers on print media, and the expansion device irradiates these layers with electromagnetic waves to generate heat and expand foam layers, creating three-dimensional structures. This merging allows sequential operations to be performed in one system, improving productivity while managing complexity through functional integration.
2Ease of operation
If the print device and expansion device are operated independently, then the ease of operation and maintenance are improved, but the manufacturing workflow efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the print device for forming electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layers and the expansion device for irradiating and expanding foam layers. Each module can be operated independently for maintenance or adjustment, yet they work sequentially in an integrated workflow. The print device prepares the print media with conversion layers, which are then processed by the expansion device, allowing independent operation while maintaining efficient workflow through proper sequencing.
3Ease of operation
If the devices are aligned laterally with shared suction and discharge parts, then the ease of operation and media handling are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction and discharge parts are designed as universal components that serve both the print device and expansion device. The suction parts are positioned to simultaneously or sequentially feed print media to both devices, and the discharge parts are aligned to facilitate smooth media transfer. This multi-functional design allows a single media handling system to support multiple processing stages, improving ease of operation while managing structural complexity through component sharing.
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
This configuration enhances workability by allowing independent operation of layer formation and irradiation, facilitating easier handling and maintenance, and improving the manufacturing process by aligning devices and incorporating a display for operator convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layer for converting electromagnetic waves into heat
Implementation Method 2
an expansion layer that expands by heating
Data Source
AI summary
A system for forming a structure on a print medium 1 includes: a print unit (print device) 10 for printing an electromagnetic wave-heat conversion layer for converting electromagnetic waves into heat, on a medium including an expansion layer that expands by heating; an expansion unit (expansion device) 20 aligned laterally with the print unit 10, for expanding the expansion layer by irradiating the medium with electromagnetic waves; and a top plate 30 covering the print unit 10 and the expansion unit 20 from above.