Stereolithography Light Emission Control via Feedback Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stereolithography apparatuses face challenges in accurately controlling light emission from light-emitting elements, affecting the precision and quality of the objects formed.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light source unit with multiple light-emitting elements, a photo-detector, and a control unit that generates an amount-of-light profile to accurately control light emission based on detected light, allowing for precise adjustment of light intensity and timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional stereolithography apparatus is used, then the basic light emission function is provided, but the light emission control precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a photodetector detects the actual light emission from each light-emitting element, and the control unit compares the detected light amount with the target light amount to generate correction values. This closed-loop feedback system enables precise control of light emission by continuously monitoring and adjusting the light output based on actual measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the light source into multiple independent light-emitting elements (e.g., laser diodes) arranged in an array, with each element capable of independent light emission and control. This segmentation allows individual measurement and correction of each element's light output, achieving precise control at the element level rather than controlling the entire light source as a single unit.
2Manufacturing precision
If light emission is controlled without amount-of-light profile, then the control process is simple, but the formation precision of objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of the light emission characteristics of each light-emitting element before actual object formation. The control unit generates an amount-of-light profile containing correction values for each element based on detected light amounts, and stores this profile for subsequent use. This preliminary characterization eliminates the need for real-time measurement during object formation, improving both precision and efficiency.
3Reliability
If uniform light emission is used, then the control is simple, but the quality of cured photo-curing resin is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different light emission control parameters to different light-emitting elements based on their individual characteristics. Each element's light amount and emission timing are adjusted according to its specific performance, as recorded in the amount-of-light profile. This localized optimization ensures that each element contributes appropriately to the overall curing quality, rather than applying uniform control to all elements.
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 configuration enables precise control of light emission, ensuring accurate formation of objects by adjusting light intensity and timing, thereby improving the quality and precision of the stereolithography process.
Implementation Method 1
The photo-detector detects the light emitted from the light source unit
Implementation Method 2
The light source unit includes a plurality of light-emitting elements that emits light for curing a photo-curing resin
Implementation Method 3
curing a photo-curing resin
Data Source
AI summary
A stereolithography apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a light source unit, a photo-detector, and a control unit. The light source unit includes a plurality of light-emitting elements that emits light for curing a photo-curing resin. The photo-detector detects the light emitted from the light source unit. The control unit generates an amount-of-light profile indicating an amount-of-light distribution of the light on the basis of the light detected by the photo-detector and controls light emission of the plurality of light-emitting elements on the basis of the amount-of-light profile.