Flexoflow 3D Printer: Flexible arm structure

Fully functional and tested 3D Printable model of this concept is available at https://grabcad.com/library/flexbot-3d-printable-robotic-arm-1 Flexoflow 3d printer is made of flexible geometry. This printer is inspired from the work of Dr. Shridhar Kota of University of Michigan and NASA’s flexible wing aircraft. The complete arm of the 3d printer composes just one part. This eliminates the need of frictional joints, coupling and hinges. The structure is operated by three motors. These motors twist the “guiding plate” to a certain angle so that the “main leaves” shall be pushed or pulled for feeding nozzle/machining head to reach the points of material deposition in 2D space. The torque of the motor is transmitted to the "guiding plate" by gears and worm wheel. The worm wheel arrangement of torque transmission helps in keeping the structure to a certain position. The structure may apply backward torque on the guiding plate. This will be prevented by worm wheel mechanism. The base of the 3d printer is rotatory type i.e. base should rotate 360 degree. This provides the access to the third degree of printing. Flexoflow 3D printer has several advantages over traditional 3d Printers. 1. The weight of the 3d printer is drastically less due to leafy structure. 2. The power required to operate the printer will be less because a slight deviation in guiding plate can be sufficient to take nozzle anywhere in the plane 3. There is no mechanical joint; this reduces the chances of wear and tear. Thus overall maintenance will be reduced. 4. The flexible geometry is always made in a way to distribute the stress uniformly. Thus there will be no part which could have higher stress concentration or breaking point. 5. The manufacturing of this type of 3d printer can be easily done using additive manufacturing methods in a single go. The submitted assembly comprises a Control Unit, Power unit, Mixture, 3D printing arms, Two nozzles, Hose pipe, Turning base, Enclosing with wall door. Stor