Valve-Type Inkjet Nozzles for Multi-Directional 3D Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-dimensional modeling apparatuses using the material inkjet method are limited in their ability to discharge high viscosity materials in directions other than downward, as conventional inkjet nozzles cannot effectively manage high pressure, leading to leakage and restricting the formation of complex shapes.
Innovation Solution
The use of valve-type inkjet nozzles on multiple recording heads allows for the controlled discharge of modeling materials in various directions (downward, horizontal, and upward) by opening and closing the discharging port with a valve body, enabling the formation of complex shapes like a 'mushroom-shaped' object through precise movement and orientation of the recording heads relative to the platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional inkjet nozzles are used to discharge modeling material, then the structure is simple, but the ability to discharge high viscosity materials in directions other than downward is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The recording head is divided into multiple independent nozzles, each capable of discharging material in different directions. The first recording head has nozzles for downward discharge, the second recording head has nozzles for horizontal discharge, and the third recording head has nozzles for upward discharge. This segmentation allows each nozzle to be optimized for its specific discharge direction while collectively providing versatile multi-directional material deposition capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional inkjet nozzles are used, then the device is simple, but high pressure causes leakage and restricts formation of complex shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is extracted as a separate functional component from the conventional nozzle structure. Each nozzle is equipped with an independent valve body that can open and close the discharge port, allowing precise control over material ejection. This extraction of the valve function enables reliable high-pressure material discharge without leakage, as the valve body can be precisely positioned to seal the discharge port when not in use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If only downward discharge is used, then the process is simple, but complex shapes like mushroom-shaped objects cannot be formed
Solution Approach 1:
The material discharge capability is extended from one dimension (downward only) to three dimensions by adding nozzles that discharge in horizontal and upward directions. The first recording head handles downward discharge for base structures, the second recording head adds horizontal discharge for lateral features, and the third recording head provides upward discharge for overhangs and complex geometries. This dimensional expansion enables formation of complex shapes like mushroom-shaped objects while maintaining efficient layered modeling through sequential curing.
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 allows for the successful formation of complex shapes that were previously impossible with conventional inkjet nozzles, as the valve-type nozzles can handle high viscosity materials and discharge them in multiple directions, enhancing the versatility and capability of three-dimensional modeling.
Implementation Method 1
each of the inkjet nozzle opens and closes a discharging port with a valve body to discharge the modeling material
Implementation Method 2
a recording head discharging a modeling material, for example, a UV (Ultra Violet) curable resin, is positioned above a platform on which a solid object is mounted, discharges UV curable dots from the recording head downward
Implementation Method 3
irradiates the UV curable resin on the discharged platform with ultraviolet light (UV) to cure the UV curable resin
Implementation Method 4
the second recording head and the third recording head may move relative to a periphery of the solid object by allowing a platform, on which the solid object is placed, to rotate horizontally
Data Source
AI summary
A three dimensional modeling apparatus is provided that includes an inkjet nozzle for discharging a molding material; a plurality of recording heads each having the inkjet nozzle; and a curing section for curing the molding material. Each of the plurality of recording heads includes a first recording head that discharges the molding material downward, and at least one of a second recording head that discharges the modeling material in a horizontal direction or a third recording head that discharges the modeling material upward. The inkjet nozzle opens and closes a discharging port with a valve body to discharge the molding material.