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Background
3D systems is a 3D printing company that is responsible for creating the figure 4 rapid prototyping printers that are heavily utilized in industry. Because this 3D printing technology is fast and lends itself to automation, there is a need to have a print platform cleaning solution that can keep up with production printing volumes. When parts are removed from the platform, the part "supports" are typically still attached to the print platform. Because the stainless steel print platforms are expensive, customers want to reuse them. So customers are motivated to fully remove the supports from the print platform and get the print platform in a clean, ready-to-use state.Here’s a close-up of typical remaining supports after part removal followed by a picture of the desired state of a “clean” print platform that’s ready for another print job.
Objectives
This project is for the development of a working prototype cleaning unit that will remove 3D printing supports and other undesired cured and partially cured material from a used stainless steel print platform for a Figure 4 3D printer. The output of the prototype is a clean, ready-to-use print platform. Additionally, the machine must meet the following design requirements:
Run on US standard 120v, 60 hz AC and draw no more than 15 A
The cleaning apparatus must utilize a totally “dry” process and not require any liquid solvent or cleaning agent
Bring the printing surface of the print platform to flush without any standing material that could puncture or dent the membrane during reuse
Final Design
The final design incorporates carriage plate to which the print platform attaches to and travels on a linear rail. Position 1 is where the operator loads the dirty print platform. The print platform then travels to position 2 where it is heated for 90 seconds at approximately 300 degrees F. After it is heated, the platform travels to station 3 where a low RPM wire wheel removes the heated resin. The platform then makes its way to station 4 where it is blown off with compressed air. This assures any remaining resin is removed from between the perforated holes. Additionally, the compressed air also cools the platform enough to be safely handled when it arrive to the unloading station.
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