Rotary Axis for 3D Printer Mandrel
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D printing using Cartesian-based routing instructions and systems can be inefficient, leading to unnecessary resource consumption and prolonged printing times, particularly when dealing with axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric constructs.
Innovation Solution
A 3D printer equipped with a multi-axis robot arm and a rotating adjustable print stage, which includes a rotary unit and a mandrel, allows for supplementary motion by rotating the mandrel around a rotation axis, enabling the deposition end effector to move radially and longitudinally to position and deposit constituents efficiently, thereby enhancing printing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If Cartesian-based routing instructions are used for 3D printing, then the printing system is simple to implement, but printing efficiency deteriorates due to unnecessary motion and prolonged printing times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotary axis (fourth axis) to the traditional three-axis Cartesian printing system, transforming it into a six-axis system. This dimensional addition enables axisymmetric printing by rotating the mandrel, allowing the deposition head to follow spiral or circular paths that are more efficient for creating rotationally symmetric structures, thereby reducing printing time and improving productivity
2Productivity
If Cartesian-based routing instructions are used for 3D printing, then the control system is simple, but resource consumption increases due to unnecessary motion
Solution Approach 1:
By adding the rotary axis dimension, the system can optimize material deposition paths for axisymmetric constructs. The mandrel rotation enables continuous spiral deposition patterns that reduce idle movements and positioning operations, thereby decreasing energy consumption and improving resource efficiency
3Productivity
If a supplemental rotary axis is added to enable efficient axisymmetric printing, then printing efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary axis and rotating mandrel are designed to serve multiple functions: they enable axisymmetric printing for rotational structures, support non-axisymmetric constructs through coordinated motion with the robotic arm, and can accommodate various mandrel types and sizes. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing versatile printing capabilities across different construct types
4Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating mandrel system is implemented, then capabilities for axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric constructs are enhanced, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating mandrel system is designed to handle both axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric constructs through a unified platform. The coordinated control between the rotary axis and the five-axis robotic arm enables the system to adapt to different construct geometries, making the additional structural complexity worthwhile by achieving universal printing capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic coordination between the rotating mandrel and the robotic arm movements. The control system continuously adjusts the rotational speed and position of the mandrel in sync with the deposition head position, enabling flexible adaptation to various construct types while maintaining precise control despite the increased structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D printer includes a multi-axis robot arm comprising a deposition end effector, a rotating adjustable print stage comprising a rotary unit and a mandrel, the rotating adjustable print stage configured to rotate the mandrel around a rotation axis, and a control unit. The control unit may be configured to move the robotic arm in a radial dimension and a longitudinal dimension with respect to the mandrel to position the deposition end effector with respect to the mandrel, rotate the mandrel with the rotary unit, and cause the deposition end effector to deposit constituent on the mandrel to form a 3D-printed construct.