3D Printer Detection Device for Precision Nozzle Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

3D printers, especially FDM 3D printers, face challenges in achieving high precision due to the sensitivity of position detectors, which can be influenced by external environmental factors, limiting the size of the piezoelectric ceramic sheets used.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a detection device in the 3D printer that includes a piezoelectric ceramic sheet and a position detector. When the nozzle approaches the carrier, the position detector sends an approaching signal, and the piezoelectric ceramic sheet generates a vibration signal upon contact, allowing for accurate detection of real vibrations and reducing external influence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the size of the piezoelectric ceramic sheet is increased to meet detection accuracy requirements for larger print objects, then the detection coverage and accuracy for large objects is improved, but the sheet becomes more sensitive to external environmental factors causing loss of accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidsensitivity to external environmental factors
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the position detector and piezoelectric ceramic sheet into an integrated detection device. The position detector identifies the approaching signal when the nozzle nears the carrier, while the piezoelectric ceramic sheet detects the contact vibration signal. This merging allows the system to use larger piezoelectric sheets for better coverage without suffering from their increased environmental sensitivity, as the position detector provides contextual information to distinguish real contact signals from environmental noise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If a position detector with high sensitivity is used to achieve high precision printing, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the detector becomes more susceptible to external environmental influences

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidstability against environmental factors
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from two detection signals: the approaching signal from the position detector and the vibration signal from the piezoelectric ceramic sheet. The control unit processes both signals together to confirm actual contact between the nozzle and carrier. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain high sensitivity for accurate positioning while filtering out false signals caused by environmental factors, as both detectors must confirm the same event.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Area of stationary object

If the piezoelectric ceramic sheet is made larger to accommodate larger print objects, then the detection coverage is improved, but the accuracy is compromised due to increased environmental sensitivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection coverage areaVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the position detector and piezoelectric ceramic sheet into a coordinated detection system, the patent enables the use of larger piezoelectric sheets to cover larger print areas while maintaining accuracy. The position detector provides spatial context about nozzle position, which helps distinguish valid contact signals from environmental noise on larger sheets, thus preserving detection accuracy across extended areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution enhances the accuracy of detection in 3D printing by minimizing external environmental influences on the piezoelectric ceramic sheet, allowing for larger sheets to be used without compromising precision, and enabling the detection device to meet the accuracy requirements of various print sizes.

Implementation Method 1

the piezoelectric ceramic sheet generates a vibration signal when the nozzle contacts the carrier

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250018656A13D printer
Publication Date: 2025.01.16 PHROZEN TECH CO LTD
  • US20250018656A1 patent drawing
  • US20250018656A1 patent drawing
  • US20250018656A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A 3D printer includes a frame, a carrier, a nozzle and a detection device. The carrier is fixed to the frame. The nozzle is movably disposed on the frame. The detection device includes a piezoelectric ceramic sheet and a position detector. The piezoelectric ceramic sheet is in contact with the carrier. The position detector is disposed on the nozzle.