Segmented Lift Platform for Low-Height 3D Printing Systems

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lifting apparatuses for additive manufacturing systems are bulky, complex, and expensive, with non-linear deformation curves and varying stiffness, posing challenges for systems with increasing build cylinder heights and limited ceiling spaces.

Innovation Solution

A lifting apparatus with a base element, first and second spindles, and independent driving devices for precise vertical movement, utilizing ball screw drives and guide rails for stability and alignment, allowing for compact design and precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If telescopic screw drives are used to reduce system height, then the building size can be increased, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem heightVSAvoidlifting apparatus complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting apparatus is divided into multiple independent lifting columns, each capable of vertical movement. The carrier device is supported by these segmented columns rather than a single complex telescopic mechanism, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving height reduction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediate frame is positioned between the base element and the carrier device, creating a nested structure where the intermediate frame supports the carrier device while the entire assembly can be vertically adjusted. This nested arrangement reduces the overall system height without requiring complex telescopic mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Length of stationary object

If telescopic screw drives are used to reduce system height, then the building size can be increased, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem heightVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting apparatus is divided into multiple independent lifting columns, each capable of vertical movement. The carrier device is supported by these segmented columns rather than a single complex telescopic mechanism, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving height reduction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs standard ball screw drives and conventional mechanical components that are commercially available and relatively inexpensive to manufacture, replacing costly custom telescopic screw drive systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multi-stage telescopic screw drives are used, then the system can accommodate varying heights, but the deformation curve becomes non-linear and stiffness varies

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheight adjustment capabilityVSAvoidpositioning accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting apparatus is divided into multiple independent lifting columns, each capable of vertical movement. The carrier device is supported by these segmented columns rather than a single complex telescopic mechanism, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving height reduction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control device coordinates the driving devices of the individual lifting columns to maintain proper positioning and alignment of the carrier device, compensating for any variations and ensuring consistent positioning accuracy across different heights

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

Enables compact, cost-effective, and stable lifting of heavy loads with precise positioning and alignment, suitable for additive manufacturing systems in low-ceiling environments.

Implementation Method 1

The lifting apparatus comprises a base element, at least one first spindle attached to the base element, a lifting platform and at least one second spindle attached to the lifting platform. The lifting apparatus further comprises at least one intermediate frame comprising at least one first driving device for vertically moving the intermediate frame relative to the first spindle and the base element and at least one second driving device for vertically moving the second spindle and the lifting platform relative to the intermediate frame.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBall screw drive: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS20250340016A1Lifting apparatus for a support device of an installation for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional workpiece

Publication Date: 2025.11.06 NIKON SLM SOLUTIONS AG

AI summary

The invention relates to a lifting apparatus for a carrier device of a system for the additive manufacturing of a three-dimensional workpiece. The lifting apparatus comprises a base element, at least one first spindle attached to the base element, a lifting platform and at least one second spindle attached to the lifting platform. Further, the lifting apparatus comprises at least one intermediate frame comprising at least one first driving device for vertically moving the intermediate frame relative to the first spindle and the base element and at least one second driving device for vertically moving the second spindle and the lifting platform relative to the intermediate frame.