Three-Point Support System for 3D Printer Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional object production devices are time-consuming to align during installation or relocation due to their multi-point support systems, which require adjustments at multiple points for stable alignment.
Innovation Solution
A three-point support system with height-adjustable feet allows for quick and reliable alignment by changing the height at three points, preventing wobbling and tilting, and featuring a tripod construction with rollers and spirit levels for precise horizontal alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a multi-point support system is used, then stability of the device is improved, but alignment time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into exactly three support points instead of multiple support points, simplifying the alignment process while maintaining stability. The three-point support structure allows alignment to be achieved by adjusting only three points rather than multiple points, directly reducing alignment time and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support feet are made height-adjustable to provide local adaptability at each support point. This allows precise control of the device's alignment by independently adjusting the height of each of the three support feet, enabling quick and reliable alignment without requiring adjustment at multiple locations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a multi-point support system is used, then stability of the device is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is simplified to exactly three support points arranged in a tripod configuration, eliminating the complexity of multi-point support systems. This segmented approach with only three points reduces the number of components and adjustment mechanisms while maintaining stability through the inherent rigidity of the tripod structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The height-adjustable feet combine the functions of support and alignment adjustment into a single integrated component. Each support foot simultaneously provides structural support and enables alignment adjustment through height modification, reducing the need for separate alignment mechanisms and simplifying the overall device structure.
3Measurement precision
If height-adjustable support feet are used, then alignment precision is improved, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support feet are equipped with height-adjustment mechanisms that provide precise local control at each of the three support points. This localized adjustment capability enables fine-tuning of the device's alignment by modifying the height of individual feet, achieving high alignment precision through simple, focused adjustments rather than complex global adjustments.
Data Source
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Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A device (1) for producing a three-dimensional object by layer-wise solidifying a build-up material at the locations corresponding to the object in the respective layers is provided. The device has a machine frame (2, 3, 4, 5) and support feet (51) attached to the machine frame, by which the device (1) is supported on a substrate. The support feet (51) are arranged such that the device (1) has a three-point support on the substrate, and at least two support feet (51) are height-adjustable and attached to the machine frame.