Additive Manufacturing Recoater Bracket with Jack Screw Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recoater rails in additive manufacturing machines can deviate from a straight, level configuration due to weight-induced twisting or bending, leading to inaccuracies in the additive manufacturing process.
Innovation Solution
A mounting bracket with jack screws is introduced to adjust the position of the recoater rail, allowing for simple and consistent alignment, including provisions for compensating for arching or drooping through the use of multiple jack screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a recoater rail is used to support the recoater in additive manufacturing, then the recoater can be positioned and supported, but the rail deviates from straight level configuration due to weight-induced twisting or bending
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable jack screws that allow dynamic modification of the recoater rail's position and orientation. This enables the system to adapt to and compensate for the rail's natural deformation under load, maintaining positioning accuracy despite the lack of inherent structural rigidity in the simple bracket design.
2Device complexity
If a simple mounting bracket is used to attach the recoater rail, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adjust and maintain accurate positioning is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The jack screws provide adjustable positioning capability within a simple bracket structure. The threads on the jack screws enable fine-tuned, incremental adjustments to the recoater rail's position, achieving precise alignment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple components.
3Device complexity
If the recoater rail is allowed to naturally support the recoater weight, then the mounting structure is simplified, but workpiece variation and scrap rates increase due to positioning inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable jack screws enable the mounting bracket to dynamically compensate for rail deformation under load. By allowing post-installation adjustment of the rail's position and orientation, the system maintains manufacturing precision and workpiece consistency without requiring an overly complex rigid mounting structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting apparatus for a recoater rail of an additive manufacturing machine includes: a bracket including: a body having first and second ends; first and second flanges extending from the first and second ends respectively, the body and flanges cooperatively forming a C-shape; a first jack screw mounted to the first flange, the first jack screw extending parallel to the body; and a second jack screw mounted to the second flange, the second jack screw extending parallel to the body.