Sectioned 3D Printing Parameters for Multi-Zone Part Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, are inefficient as they maintain constant print parameters for every layer of a part, which limits optimization of different sections of a part.

Innovation Solution

The proposed method involves dividing a CAD model of a part into multiple sections, each with its own unique print parameters, and slicing these sections into layers for additive manufacturing, allowing for optimized print parameters in different areas of the part.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If constant print parameters are used for every layer of a part, then the printing process is simple to control, but the efficiency and quality of different sections cannot be optimized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting efficiencyVSAvoidprint parameter management
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides a part into multiple sections, where each section can have its own optimized print parameters. This segmentation allows different regions of the part to be printed with parameters tailored to their specific requirements, improving overall printing efficiency without requiring complex manual parameter management for the entire part.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic print parameters that can change between sections and layers. The system automatically adjusts parameters such as temperature, speed, and material flow rate based on the current section being printed, enabling optimization for each region while maintaining systematic control through automated parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If different print parameters are optimized for each section, then printing efficiency improves, but the complexity of parameter management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesection-specific qualityVSAvoidparameter optimization complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary division of the part into sections and pre-assignment of optimized parameters to each section before the actual printing process begins. This preliminary action allows the system to automatically select and apply appropriate parameters for each section during printing, achieving high manufacturing precision without requiring complex real-time parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the printing process and automatically adjust parameters based on section-specific requirements. The system uses information about the current section being printed to automatically select optimal parameters, reducing the complexity of manual parameter management while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 approach enables the optimization of the printing process for each section of a part, improving efficiency and allowing for the production of parts with varying print parameters in a single printing process.

Implementation Method 1

melting a thin layer of thermoplastic material, and applying this material in layers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 2

Friction from the rotating screw, combined with heat from the barrel may soften the thermoplastic material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction heating: Friction

Implementation Method 3

heat from the barrel may soften the thermoplastic material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat: Heating

Implementation Method 4

Forced under pressure through a small round opening in a die

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 5

melting and fusing with the existing material (e.g., the previously deposited layers of the melted thermoplastic material of the structure), to produce a solid finished part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFusion: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS12269213B2Systems and methods for printing components using additive manufacturing
Publication Date: 2025.04.08 THERMWOOD CORP
  • US12269213B2 patent drawing
  • US12269213B2 patent drawing
  • US12269213B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of forming a part using additive manufacturing may include receiving, at a computer numeric controlled (CNC) machine, a computer aided design (CAD) model of the part. The method may further include dividing the CAD model into plurality of sections. The method may further include slicing each of the plurality of sections into a plurality of layers. Each section may include a distinct set of print parameters. The method may further include depositing a flowable material onto a worktable according the set of print parameters for each section of the of the plurality of sections to manufacture the part.