3D Printing Tool Head with Segmented Motor and Gear Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-dimensional molding devices using the direct fused deposition method face challenges in achieving high-speed forming due to the weight and precision issues associated with the tool head, which affects the feeding of filament materials.
Innovation Solution
A tool head design incorporating an extruder, extruder motor, heating unit, nozzle, and fan for cooling the extruder motor, allowing for high-speed filament feeding and precise control, with a gear mechanism optimizing torque and speed for efficient filament delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the extruder is attached to the tool head (direct method), then filament feeding precision is improved, but tool head weight increases making high-speed forming difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tool head is divided into functional modules: the extruder motor is separated from the heating unit and nozzle assembly, with each component optimized independently. The extruder motor is positioned to minimize its impact on tool head weight while maintaining filament feeding precision through the gear mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional direct-drive extrusion mechanisms with a gear mechanism that provides mechanical advantage. This allows for precise filament feeding with reduced motor size and weight, as the gear system amplifies the motor's torque output.
2Reliability
If the extruder motor is cooled by a fan, then motor temperature is reduced improving reliability, but tool head structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fan assembly serves multiple functions: it cools the extruder motor, and its housing integrates with the tool head structure to provide support and mounting features. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate cooling components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling fan is integrated with the tool head housing rather than being a separate component. The fan housing is merged with the structural elements of the tool head, combining the cooling function with the mechanical support structure.
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 high-speed forming with precise filament feeding, reducing the tool head's weight and size while maintaining precision, enhancing the overall performance and thermal efficiency of the three-dimensional molding device.
Implementation Method 1
a heating unit for melting the filament fed from the extruder
Implementation Method 2
a fan for cooling the extruder motor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a tool head for three-dimensional molding capable of high-speed forming as relating to three-dimensional molding for a fused deposition method that feeds filament in a direct method. The present invention relates to a tool head for a three-dimensional molding device, provided with an extruder for feeding a filament, an extruder motor for driving the extruder, a heating unit for melting the filament fed from the extruder, a nozzle for discharging the filament melted by the heating unit, and a fan for cooling the extruder motor.