Rotatable Build Plate Engagement for Additive Manufacturing Support Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional additive manufacturing processes face challenges in efficiently removing waste materials and supports from build plates, particularly in metallic component manufacturing, where supports are often physically connected to the build plate in various locations, complicating the removal process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a height adjustable platform, a rotatable member with coupling members and an actuator, and a controller that aligns and engages the build plate's sidewalls to facilitate rotation, linear actuation, and positioning for efficient removal of waste and supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If supports are physically connected to the build plate in various locations, then the component can be manufactured with proper support structures, but the removal of waste materials and supports becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The build plate is divided into multiple segments or sections, each with supports connected at different locations. This segmentation allows supports to be removed individually or in groups, reducing the overall time and complexity of the removal process while maintaining structural integrity during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
Support structures are designed and positioned in advance during the manufacturing planning stage, optimizing their locations and configurations. This preliminary action ensures that supports can be efficiently removed after manufacturing without requiring complex removal procedures, thus reducing time loss.
2Measurement precision
If multiple coupling members are used to engage opposing sidewalls of the build plate, then precise alignment and control are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each coupling member is designed to perform multiple functions: engaging the build plate sidewall, providing alignment reference, and enabling rotational movement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby maintaining measurement precision while limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling members are arranged in a radial pattern around the build plate, utilizing the radial dimension to achieve precise alignment. This dimensional arrangement allows accurate positioning and control without requiring an excessive number of coupling members, as each member contributes to alignment in a specific radial direction.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and systems for rotatably engaging an additive manufacturing build plate are disclosed. An apparatus may include: a height adjustable platform; a rotatable member coupled to the height adjustable platform; an alignment member coupled to a first end of the rotatable member; and first and second coupling members each extending from the first radial end of the alignment member wherein the first and second coupling members are oriented substantially parallel to the rotatable member.