Volumetric 3D Printing Optics for Uniform Multi-Color Photopolymerization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing volumetric 3D printing apparatuses for multi-color photopolymerization of photocurable resins require complex setups with multiple light sources and light sheet generators, leading to increased installation space and cost, and often result in non-uniform light intensity distribution.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus using a single light source and a light sheet generator to produce multiple overlapping light sheets with controlled intensity distribution, achieved through a beam combining device and optical reflectors to ensure uniform photopolymerization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple light sources and light sheet generators are used to generate multiple light sheets, then the light sheets can extend in different directions and overlap to improve print quality, but the device complexity increases and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single light beam into multiple light sheets by introducing multiple scattering particles at different positions within the working volume. Each scattering particle acts as an independent light sheet generator, dividing the original beam into multiple directed light sheets that can overlap to form the desired three-dimensional object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses scattering particles as intermediary elements to transform a single light beam into multiple light sheets. These particles serve as mediators that redirect and shape the light without requiring multiple complex light sources or light sheet generators, thereby simplifying the overall device configuration.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple light sources and light sheet generators are used to generate multiple light sheets, then the light sheets can extend in different directions and overlap to improve print quality, but the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single light beam into multiple light sheets by introducing multiple scattering particles at different positions within the working volume. Each scattering particle acts as an independent light sheet generator, dividing the original beam into multiple directed light sheets that can overlap to form the desired three-dimensional object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple light sources and multiple light sheet generators into a single light source combined with multiple scattering particles. This consolidation achieves the same effect of generating multiple directional light sheets while occupying significantly less installation space.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used with identical configurations to generate light sheets with the same properties, then the light intensity distribution can be optimized, but the device complexity and adjustment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses scattering particles as intermediary elements to transform a single light beam into multiple light sheets. These particles serve as mediators that redirect and shape the light without requiring multiple complex light sources or light sheet generators, thereby simplifying the overall device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the properties of light sheets by adjusting parameters of the scattering particles, such as their position, size, and material composition, rather than requiring precise adjustment of multiple light sources. This approach simplifies the configuration while maintaining control over light intensity distribution.
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
The solution simplifies the setup, reduces costs, and enhances the quality of printed objects by ensuring homogeneous light intensity across the working volume, improving the resolution and uniformity of the 3D printing process.
Implementation Method 1
a light sheet generator (33) configured to process a light beam of the light of the first wavelength emitted by the at least one first light source (31) to generate at least four individual light sheets (LS1 - LS4) of the light of the first wavelength
Implementation Method 2
The irradiation device (30) comprises an optical reflector (34) configured to direct the at least four individual light sheets (LS1 - LS4) generated by the light sheet generator (33) towards and/or through the working volume (11) such that each of the at least four individual light sheets (LS1 - LS4) can enter or enters the working volume (11) at a specific angle
Implementation Method 3
irradiating a photocurable resin with light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, different from the first wavelength, wherein the light of the first wavelength and the light of the second wavelength intersect in at least one formation zone in which the photocurable resin is solidified to form at least a part of the three-dimensional object to be printed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An apparatus for volumetric 3d-printing a three-dimensional object by multi-color photopolymerization of a photocurable resin.