3D Printer Automatic Calibration via Rotating Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D printing devices face issues with nozzle clogging due to incorrect distance between the nozzle and printing table, leading to failed first-layer adhesion and subsequent layer delivery problems, as the first layer may separate from the table if not properly aligned, causing material accumulation and clogging.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional printing device with a calibration member, actuation members, and a control unit that automatically adjusts the printing head and table positions using a rotating calibration arm and electronic switch to determine the operation area and maintain the correct distance, ensuring proper alignment and adhesion of the first layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the distance between the nozzle and printing table is not correctly adjusted, then the first layer cannot adhere correctly to the printing table, but manual adjustment of the printing plate position is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic calibration without requiring manual intervention. The calibration member with electronic switch automatically detects the printing table surface and determines the operation area, while the control unit autonomously adjusts the printing head position to achieve correct layer adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process is performed before actual printing operations. The system pre-determines the correct printing head position and operation area through automatic calibration, ensuring that the printing table is properly positioned before material deposition begins.
2Reliability
If the distance between the nozzle and printing table is less than necessary, then the required amount of molten filament cannot leave the nozzle, causing material accumulation and clogging, but increasing the distance prevents proper adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic switch provides feedback signals to the control unit during calibration, allowing the system to detect the printing table surface and automatically adjust the printing head position to the optimal distance for both adhesion and material flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated system using a calibration member, electronic switch, and control unit. This substitution eliminates human error in positioning and ensures consistent, precise distance control between the nozzle and printing table.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual calibration is used, then the printing plate position can be adjusted, but the process is complex and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system is self-executing and does not require manual operation. The calibration member automatically contacts the printing table, the electronic switch detects the surface, and the control unit processes the information to determine the correct operation area without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration member acts as an intermediary between the printing head and printing table. It facilitates the automatic detection process by contacting the printing table surface and transmitting position information to the control unit through the electronic switch.
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
The automatic calibration process ensures the first layer is securely formed on the printing table, preventing nozzle clogging and enabling efficient production by maintaining the necessary distance and alignment, allowing for smooth layer addition.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic switch which is provided almost opposite to the first arm. By means of the electronic switch, the surface of the printing table is swept so as to determine the operation area.
Implementation Method 2
a return spring with one end disposed on the first arm and the other end on the calibration member. By means of the return spring, the calibration member can be locked at certain positions and can start to move again.
Implementation Method 3
a protrusion which is provided on the printing head and a housing which is provided on the calibration member and which is fitted over the protrusion to enable the rotation of the calibration member.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a three-dimensional printing device (1) comprising a body (2); a printing head (3) which is provided on the body (2) and which performs the printing operation; a nozzle (4) which is provided on the printing head (3) and which is used for processing the material; and a printing table (5) whereon the material leaving the nozzle (4) is delivered.