Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated PDMS sheet production device that automates the entire process of PDMS sheet production, including dispensing, mixing, molding, and curing, thereby eliminating the need for manual intervention, reducing production time, and ensuring consistent quality and viscosity of the PDMS mixture.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The production of PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane) sheets is increasingly important across a wide range of industries due to their versatile properties. PDMS is a silicone-based polymer known for its flexibility, high thermal stability, chemical inertness, and biocompatibility, making it suitable for applications in the medical, automotive, electronics, and construction sectors. In the medical field, PDMS sheets are used in devices like sensors, medical tubing, and wound dressings, where their non-toxic and hypoallergenic nature is crucial. In the electronics industry, PDMS is valued for its insulating properties, contributing to the production of flexible circuits, displays, and encapsulates for sensitive electronic components. The automotive industry also benefits from PDMS sheets for gaskets, seals, and vibration-damping materials due to their durability and resistance to extreme temperatures. PDMS is widely utilized in research and development for microfluidic devices, where precise, biocompatible, and flexible materials are essential. The growing demand for lightweight, durable, and flexible materials in various high-performance applications underscores the need for efficient and scalable production of PDMS sheets, driving innovations in material science and manufacturing techniques.

[0003] Traditional methods of PDMS sheet production typically involve a molding or casting process, where liquid PDMS prepolymers are mixed with curing agents and poured into molds. The mixture is then heated to initiate crosslinking, solidifying the material into sheets. These methods, such as room-temperature vulcanization (RTV) and heat-curing, offer simplicity and are widely used for small-scale production. However, they come with several drawbacks. The molding process is time-consuming, requiring long curing times, especially for thicker sheets, which limits production speed and efficiency. Also, controlling the uniformity of the material properties across large surfaces is challenging, often resulting in variations in thickness, hardness, or elasticity. The reliance on manual processes also lead to higher rates of defects or inconsistencies. These traditional methods often involve the use of solvents or other chemicals, which pose environmental or safety concerns. Scaling up production using these methods is also difficult, as they are typically suited for batch production, which restricts the ability to meet large-scale demand. As a result, these conventional techniques face limitations in terms of cost-effectiveness, reproducibility, and environmental impact, prompting the development of more efficient and automated production methods.

[0004] CN102627784B discloses about an invention that preparing a metal-PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane) composite material. The method comprises the following steps of: performing a reduction reaction by taking an additive in a PDMS material as a reducing agent for a metal precursor to generate metal nanoparticle seeds on the entire or a part of the PDMS; performing an amplified reaction on the metal nanoparticle seeds by using an amplification solution which contains a metal precursor, a protecting agent and the like to generate a metal film layer; and preparing the metal-PDMS composite material. According to the method, metal films can be prepared on the surfaces of PDMS sheets, pipes, rods and other special-shaped PDMS materials and in channels of PDMS chips. The method has the characteristics of simple process, no need of performing high-cost metal evaporation and the like; and the prepared metal-PDMS composite material has the advantages of low cost and high integration degree.

[0005] US20150243404A1 discloses about an invention that PDMS-based composite and a synthesis method thereof are disclosed. The PDMS-based composite comprises a PDMS gel and a plurality of conducting particles distributed within the PDMS gel. The weight percentage of the conducting particles in the PDMS-based composite is in the range of 86% to 91%. The synthesis method comprises the steps of: wetting a plurality of conducting particles using a low flash point solvent; mixing the wetted conducting particles with a PDMS gel; evaporating the low flash point solvent to form a mixture; and curing the mixture to form the product per se.

[0006] Conventionally, many methods are available for producing PDMS sheet. However, the cited invention lacks in providing a fully automated and customizable solution that ensures precise control over the production process. While traditional methods involve manual mixing, dispensing, and molding steps, they often require significant human intervention, which increases the likelihood of inconsistencies in material properties and dimensions. These methods do not allow for real-time adjustments to accommodate variations in material viscosity or curing conditions, leading to suboptimal results.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of fully automating the production of PDMS sheets, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing production time. Such a device should enable precise control over every aspect of the process, including mixing, molding, curing, and sheet extraction, ensuring consistent material properties and dimensions.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of facilitating efficient production of PDMS sheets in view of eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing production time.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling users to customize the PDMS sheet specifications for ensuring the production of sheets with desired properties and dimensions.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of continuously monitoring the production process in view of ensuring real-time adjustments and the accuracy of each step in the operation.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automating the dispensing and mixing of necessary liquids in the correct proportions for ensuring consistency in the quality and viscosity of the mixture for sheet production.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing for easy and accurate adjustment and ensuring that the molding process accommodate various sheet sizes as per user requirements.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of promoting even distribution of the mixture during molding through vibration for ensuring uniformity in the thickness and texture of the PDMS sheet.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of optimizing the curing process through temperature regulation and controlled exposure for ensuring efficient and uniform solidification of the PDMS material.

[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of facilitating easy extraction and removal of the finished PDMS sheet in view of reducing labor and increasing overall productivity in the sheet production process.

[0017] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The present invention relates to an automated PDMS sheet production device that allows users to easily customize the specifications of PDMS sheets, including their dimensions, thickness, and texture, while ensuring accurate molding and enabling real-time adjustments throughout the production process.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated PDMS sheet production device, comprises of a platform equipped with a touch interactive display panel, allowing users to input specifications for the desired PDMS sheet. An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, paired with a processor, monitors operations on the platform and ensures precise execution by regulating subsequent steps through a microcontroller. The device includes a multi-sectioned chamber for storing PDMS solution and curing agent, where the microcontroller calculates and dispenses the required amounts of liquids through motorized iris flaps. The dispensed liquids are collected in a container, where a motorized stirrer, controlled by a capacitive sensor, ensures proper mixing to achieve optimal viscosity. The platform is connected to an expandable frame that adjusts its dimensions based on the user's input. An electronically controlled nozzle gradually releases the mixture into the frame to mold the sheet into the specified shape. A vibrating unit ensures even distribution of the mixture within the frame, while Peltier units regulate the temperature for efficient solidification. UV light and a timer, controlled by the microcontroller, ensure proper curing of the PDMS sheet. A sprayer applies oil to facilitate sheet removal, and a robotic arm extracts the finished sheet for easy collection. A battery powers the entire system, ensuring continuous operation of all electronically powered components.

[0020] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an automated PDMS sheet production device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0023] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0025] The present invention relates to an automated PDMS sheet production device that promotes efficient and uniform production by incorporating features such as vibration for even mixture distribution, temperature regulation for optimal curing, and easy extraction of the finished sheet, all contributing to higher productivity and superior sheet quality.

[0026] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated PDMS sheet production device is illustrated, comprising a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, a touch interactive display panel 102 is installed on the housing, a multi-sectioned chamber 103 installed on the platform 101, a motorized iris flap 104 arranged on front portion of each section of the chamber 103, a conduit 105 linked in between the sections and a container 106 positioned on the platform 101, a motorized stirrer 107 is integrated in the container 106, an expandable frame 108 configured with the platform 101, an electronically controlled nozzle 109 assembled on the platform 101 by means of an extendable link 110, a vibrating unit 111 integrated in the frame 108, plurality of Peltier units 112 are integrated in the frame 108, an ultraviolet (UV) light 113 installed in the frame 108, a robotic arm 114 is installed on the platform 101, an electronically controlled sprayer 115 arranged on the platform 101 for spraying oil stored in a vessel 116, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 117 is mounted on the platform 101.

[0027] The device disclosed herein includes a platform 101 that serves as the foundational base and positioned on a fixed and stable surface for ensuring that the device remains secure and operates without any instability during the PDMS sheet production process. The fixed positioning of platform 101 prevents any undesired movement or vibration which potentially disrupt the accuracy required for producing high-quality PDMS sheets. The platform 101 itself is constructed from durable, rigid materials that provide long-lasting support and house all other components of the device for ensuring that all parts remain aligned and function cohesively throughout the production cycle.

[0028] A touch interactive display panel 102 is installed on the platform 101 that serves as the primary user interface which allows users to input and adjust various parameters needed to customize the PDMS sheet according to their specific requirements. The touch panel 102 is developed to be highly responsive in view of offering users an intuitive and straightforward way to interact with the device without the need for complex manual controls or interfaces. Users easily select and input key specifications such as the dimensions (length, width, and thickness) of the PDMS sheet, the desired viscosity of the mixture, and the curing time required for solidification. The interface is developed with clear icons, buttons, and visual prompts to guide users through the input process step by step, ensuring that even those with minimal technical knowledge operate the device effectively.

[0029] In addition to enabling specification input, the interactive display panel 102 also provides real-time feedback and control over the device’s operations. Once the user entered the desired specifications, an inbuilt microcontroller processes the input and automatically adjusts the various components of the device to match the user’s requirements. For example, it calculates the appropriate amounts of PDMS solution and curing agents to be dispensed and controls the temperature regulation during the curing phase. The display panel 102 also provides continuous updates on the current stage of the PDMS sheet production process in view of allowing users to monitor the progress and make any necessary adjustments.

[0030] An artificial intelligence (AI)-based imaging unit 117 that is mounted on the platform 101 to monitor and oversee the entire production process. The imaging unit 117 aids in ensuring the precision, efficiency, and quality of the PDMS sheets produced. The imaging unit 117 capture high-resolution images of the platform 101 and the components involved in each operation. The imaging unit 117 continuously observe the ongoing processes, detect any irregularities, and provide real-time feedback to the microcontroller, which is responsible for regulating and coordinating the operations of the device.

[0031] The imaging unit 117 is paired with a powerful processor that analyzes the captured images and makes decisions based on the visual data. By processing multiple images taken throughout the production cycle, the processor assesses the status of different steps in the PDMS sheet manufacturing process. For example, the microcontroller evaluates the uniformity and monitor the consistency of the mixture as it is stirred, and check for any anomalies or deviations in the desired shape and thickness of the PDMS sheet as it is being molded. This continuous visual monitoring allows the device to detect issues such as uneven distribution of the mixture, improper curing, or inconsistencies in the sheet’s dimensions. The processor uses the information from the imaging unit 117 to make informed decisions and adjust the device’s operations accordingly.

[0032] A multi-sectioned chamber 103 is installed on the platform 101 to store and manage various liquids necessary for the creation of the PDMS sheets. The chamber 103 is developed to hold different types of liquids, such as the PDMS solution, the base material and curing agent, which are essential for the formation of the desired PDMS sheet. The chamber 103 is divided into multiple sections, each responsible for storing a specific liquid in controlled quantities. The multi-sectioned design allows the device to handle the individual components of the PDMS mixture separately in view of reducing the risk of contamination between the liquids and ensuring a more efficient and organized workflow during the production process.

[0033] The multi-sectioned chamber 103 to provide control over the amounts of PDMS solution and curing agent that are dispensed into a mixing container 106 to create the PDMS mixture. The microcontroller’s aids in ensuring that the correct proportion of PDMS solution to curing agent is dispensed. This ratio is essential for achieving the desired viscosity, curing time, and final strength of the PDMS sheet. The microcontroller receives the user input from the display panel 102, then opens a motorized iris flap 104 connected with each section of the chamber to release these liquids in the correct amounts. These liquids are then transferred through conduit 105 into a container 106, where they are mixed together.

[0034] These flaps regulate the flow of liquids in view of ensuring that the liquids are dispensed at the right time and in the correct proportion which is 1:1. The chamber’s design helps in maintaining the purity of each liquid and prevents them from mixing prematurely before reaching the mixing container 106, which is crucial for controlling the viscosity of the final mixture. This method of controlled dispensing is vital because any imbalance in the proportions of the PDMS solution and curing agent lead to issues with the quality and consistency of the final product.

[0035] Once the correct amounts of PDMS solution and curing agent are dispensed into the mixing container 106, the microcontroller monitors the mixing process as well in view of ensuring that the liquids are stirred properly to form a homogeneous mixture of right consistency to ensure the PDMS sheet cures properly and achieves the required mechanical properties. The user adjust the input specifications as needed through the display panel 102, and the microcontroller process these inputs and make the necessary adjustments to the operation of the multi-sectioned chamber 103.

[0036] The liquids that are dispensed into the container 106 are then mixed together to create the PDMS mixture. To ensure the mixture reaches the ideal consistency, a motorized stirrer 107 is integrated into the container 106. The stirrer 107 is responsible for agitating the liquids and ensuring that they combine uniformly, thereby creating a homogenous mixture with the right viscosity. The motorized stirrer 107 is operated by the microcontroller, which monitors and regulates the stirring process. The microcontroller adjusts the stirring speed and duration based on real-time data to ensure that the mixture is adequately blended and achieves the desired consistency for the PDMS sheet production.

[0037] To further enhance the efficiency of the mixing process, the container 106 is equipped with a capacitive sensor embedded within it. This sensor is used to measure the level of the dispensed liquids inside the container 106. As the liquids are dispensed through the motorized iris flap 104, the capacitive sensor continuously monitors the liquid level for providing real-time feedback to the microcontroller. The sensor ensures that the correct amount of liquids is dispensed, and based on this data, the microcontroller make real-time adjustments to the actuation of the motorized stirrer 107.

[0038] The microcontroller's ability to regulate the motorized stirrer 107 is crucial for ensuring the optimal viscosity of the PDMS mixture. If the mixture is too thin or too thick, this lead to issues in the curing process, thus resulting in a suboptimal PDMS sheet. By continuously monitoring the liquid levels and adjusting the stirrer 107 as needed, the microcontroller ensures that the mixture maintains the correct consistency for uniform molding and curing.

[0039] An expandable frame 108 is installed on the platform to provide flexibility and precision in molding PDMS sheets according to the user’s specific requirements. The frame 108 is adjusted in size based on the user-specified dimensions of the PDMS sheet. The ability to adjust the frame's size is crucial because it allows the device to accommodate a wide range of sheet sizes and shapes, making the device versatile and capable of producing customized PDMS sheets for various applications.

[0040] The user interacts with the system through the touch interactive display panel 102, where they input the desired dimensions for the PDMS sheet. Once these dimensions are specified, the frame's size is adjusted automatically to match the user’s specifications. Herein, an electronically controlled nozzle 109 is mounted on the platform 101 via an extendable link 110, which provides it with the ability to extend and retract as needed. The extendable link 110 is controlled electronically by the microcontroller, which receives real-time input from the user interface to position the nozzle 109 at the correct location for dispensing the PDMS mixture into the frame 108. The nozzle’s primary function is to gradually release the mixed PDMS solution and curing agent into the frame 108, where thus shaped into the user-specified dimensions of the sheet.

[0041] The nozzle’s controlled extension and retraction are crucial for ensuring that the PDMS mixture is dispensed evenly and gradually. By adjusting the position of the nozzle 109, the device ensures that the mixture is released in a controlled and uniform manner, allowing the PDMS to fill the frame 108 completely and form a consistent sheet. The gradual release of the mixture helps prevent air bubbles, uneven distributions, or wastage of materials, all of which compromise the quality of the final PDMS sheet. This controlled dispensing process is essential for maintaining the integrity of the PDMS sheet’s shape and ensuring that it matches the desired dimensions and thickness as specified by the user. The nozzle’s precise positioning also allows the device to create sheets with varying thicknesses and geometries, depending on the user’s needs. Whether the sheet needs to be thin for flexible applications or thicker for stronger, more rigid uses, the nozzle 109 is adjusted to dispense the appropriate amount of mixture.

[0042] Once the PDMS mixture is dispensed into the frame 108, it begins to take shape according to the user-defined dimensions. The controlled release and positioning of the nozzle 109 are key factors in ensuring that the mixture fills the frame 108 uniformly. This contributes to a consistent distribution of the PDMS material, which is critical for the curing process and for achieving uniform mechanical properties in the final sheet. The nozzle's flexibility in positioning allows the device to handle both simple and complex molding shapes, making it suitable for a wide variety of industries that require custom-sized PDMS sheets. The entire process of adjusting the frame 108 and controlling the nozzle 109 is integrated into the device which is governed by the microcontroller. The microcontroller continuously monitors the operation of the nozzle 109, the expandable frame 108, and the overall PDMS dispensing process.

[0043] A vibrating unit 111 integrated into the frame 108 for ensuring that the PDMS mixture is evenly distributed within the frame 108 during the molding process. Once the PDMS mixture is dispensed into the frame 108, it is vital that the mixture spreads uniformly to avoid inconsistencies in thickness, texture, or curing. The vibrating unit 111 generates controlled vibrational sensations that help to achieve an even spread of the mixture across the entire frame 108, ensuring a homogeneous distribution. This uniformity is essential for producing high-quality PDMS sheets with consistent properties, as any unevenness in the distribution lead to variations in material thickness, which impact the performance and reliability of the final sheet.

[0044] The vibrations generated by the unit assist in several key processes. First, they help break up any air bubbles or trapped pockets of gas within the mixture, which otherwise disrupt the uniformity of the sheet. These vibrations also encourage the PDMS mixture to flow into all corners and edges of the frame 108, ensuring that the mold is completely filled and that no gaps are left behind. This ensures that the PDMS sheet is of the desired shape, thickness, and integrity. The vibrational effect helps improve the bonding between the PDMS solution and the curing agent, promoting a more uniform chemical reaction during the curing phase, leading to a more consistent final product.

[0045] In conjunction with the vibrating unit 111, the frame 108 is equipped with a plurality of Peltier units 112, which are thermoelectric devices that provide heating and cooling effects. These Peltier units 112 are crucial in regulating the temperature of the PDMS mixture during the solidification process. PDMS sheets require precise temperature control to cure effectively and achieve the desired material properties. The Peltier units 112 integrated into the frame 108 are responsible for maintaining the temperature within the optimal range for PDMS curing. By providing both heating and cooling, the Peltier units 112 ensure that the temperature is controlled to avoid overheating or under-heating, both of which result in poor curing, leading to defects in the PDMS sheet

[0046] The Peltier units 112 work by transferring heat from one side of the device to the other, creating a temperature differential. The cooling side of the Peltier unit lowers the temperature of the PDMS mixture when the temperature exceeds a certain threshold, while the heating side raises the temperature when the mixture is too cold. This precise control of temperature is essential because PDMS curing is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If the mixture is not heated enough, it not solidifies properly, resulting in a weak or incomplete sheet. Conversely, if the mixture becomes too hot, it cure too quickly, leading to undesirable mechanical properties or surface defects. The Peltier units 112 help to prevent these issues by ensuring that the PDMS mixture is kept within a narrow, optimal temperature range.

[0047] To further enhance temperature control, a temperature sensor is embedded within the frame 108. This sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the PDMS mixture during the solidification process. This sends real-time temperature data to the microcontroller, which evaluates whether the temperature is within the specified range for curing. If the temperature deviates from the desired range, the microcontroller activates the appropriate Peltier units 112 to either heat or cool the mixture. This feedback loop ensures that the temperature remains stable and consistent throughout the curing process, which is critical for achieving high-quality, uniform PDMS sheets.

[0048] The temperature sensor, combined with the Peltier units 112 and vibrating unit 111, ensures that the PDMS mixture undergoes optimal curing. The sensor provides continuous feedback, while the Peltier units 112 adjust the temperature in real time, and the vibrating unit 111 ensures that the mixture remains evenly spread and free of air bubbles or inconsistencies. This highly coordination helps to ensure that the final PDMS sheet is not only uniform in thickness but also fully cured and exhibiting the desired mechanical properties such as flexibility, strength, and durability.

[0049] An ultraviolet (UV) light 113 integrated into the frame 108 for curing process of the PDMS mixture. UV light 113 is essential for initiating and accelerating the curing or cross-linking of certain types of materials, including PDMS, which relies on a photochemical process to solidify. Once the PDMS mixture is dispensed into the mold, it needs to undergo a controlled curing process to transition from a liquid state into a solid, durable sheet. The UV light 113 is installed within the frame 108 and is activated by the device's microcontroller. This activation process is based on precise timing, as the microcontroller monitors the progress of the curing phase using an integrated timer.

[0050] A timer embedded in the platform 101 allows for a controlled curing duration that is adjustable depending on the user-specified requirements or the type of PDMS mixture being used. When the mixture is dispensed into the frame 108, the UV light 113 is activated for a predefined period as per the curing specifications. During this time, the UV light 113 provides energy that causes the PDMS molecules to undergo polymerization, solidifying the mixture and turning it into a fully cured sheet. The timer ensures that the curing is neither too quick, which lead to incomplete or uneven curing, nor too slow, which could extend the production cycle unnecessarily. The controlled activation of the UV light 113 ensures that the curing process occurs efficiently, consistently, and at the correct rate, enabling the production of high-quality PDMS sheets

[0051] Furthermore, after the curing duration is complete, the microcontroller deactivates the UV light 113 and prepares the system for the dispensing of the next layer of the PDMS mixture. This process of layered curing is essential in cases where thicker sheets are required or when the PDMS sheets are produced in multiple layers to achieve specific mechanical or thermal properties. By ensuring that each layer is fully cured before the next layer is applied, the system guarantees that the final product is structurally sound, uniform, and free of defects.

[0052] An electronically controlled sprayer 115, which is tasked with spraying oil onto the frame 108 during the production process. The oil serves a dual purpose in facilitating the easy removal of the PDMS sheet from the frame 108 once it is fully cured. The surface of the mold or frame 108 is often coated with a release agent, such as a lubricant or oil, which prevents the cured PDMS sheet from sticking to the mold and ensures smooth detachment. The electronically controlled sprayer 115 is linked to the microcontroller, which regulates the precise application of oil based on the operational requirements of the machine. The oil is stored in a vessel 116 configured with the sprayer 115, and when activated, the sprayer 115 distributes the oil evenly onto the mold surface. This ensures that the surface is adequately coated before the PDMS mixture is dispensed, providing an optimal environment for sheet removal once curing is complete.

[0053] The electronically controlled sprayer 115 eliminates the need for manual application of the oil, reducing human error and improving the consistency of the oil application. By spraying the oil evenly and consistently, the system ensures that the PDMS sheet is removed with minimal effort, without causing damage to the sheet or the mold. This is especially important in large-scale or high-precision applications where consistency in the sheet's final dimensions and quality is paramount.

[0054] Once the PDMS sheet is fully cured and the mold is properly oiled, a microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 114 is installed on the platform 101 to assist in the removal of the cured PDMS sheet from the frame 108. The robotic arm 114 is designed to handle the cured sheet delicately and precisely to avoid any damage. Once the robotic arm 114 has a firm grip on the sheet, it is then pre-fed to lift and remove the sheet from the mold. This process is fully automated, ensuring that the sheets are removed efficiently, reducing the risk of human error or physical strain on the operator

[0055] The robotic arm 114 enhances the automation process by performing tasks that would otherwise require manual labor, which not only increases the speed of production but also improves consistency and repeatability. By automating the removal process, the device ensures that the PDMS sheets are ready for use or further processing without unnecessary delays.

[0056] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0057] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the platform developed to be positioned on fixed surface as disclosed in the proposed invention. The user input the desired specifications for the PDMS sheet via the touch interactive display panel 102. The device’s microcontroller processes this information and uses artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 117 to monitor and assess the operations on the platform 101. Based on the input, the microcontroller evaluates the required amounts of PDMS solution and curing agent, which are stored in multi-sectioned chamber 103. The microcontroller controls motorized iris flap 104 to dispense the correct proportions of the liquids into container 106, where motorized stirrer 107, regulated by capacitive sensor, ensures efficient mixing to achieve optimal viscosity. The mixture is then transferred into expandable frame 108, which adjusts its dimensions based on user specifications. The electronically controlled nozzle 109 gradually releases the mixture into the frame 108, molding it into the desired sheet shape. The vibrating unit 111 ensures uniform distribution of the mixture, while Peltier units 112 maintain the proper temperature for solidification. The temperature sensor continuously monitors the mixture’s temperature, adjusting the Peltier units 112 accordingly. UV light 113, controlled by the microcontroller and monitored by the timer, solidifies the mixture layer by layer. After curing, the electronically controlled sprayer 115 applies oil to the frame 108 for easy removal of the PDMS sheet, and the robotic arm 114 extracts the sheet for collection.

[0058] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An automated PDMS sheet production device, comprising:

i) a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, wherein a touch interactive display panel 102 is installed on said housing for enabling a user to provide input specifications regarding a user-desired PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane) sheet;
ii) a multi-sectioned chamber 103 installed on said platform 101 for storing varying liquids, including a PDMS solution and a curing agent wherein a microcontroller is linked with said display panel 102 for processing said input specifications to evaluate required amounts of said liquids for formation of said user-desired sheet;
iii) a motorized iris flap 104 arranged on front portion of each section of said chamber 103 that are actuated by said microcontroller to get opened/closed for dispensing said evaluated amount of liquids, that are transferred through a conduit 105 linked in between said sections and a container 106 positioned on said platform 101 for collecting said liquids in a 1:1 ratio, wherein a motorized stirrer 107 is integrated in said container 106 for stirring said liquids to form a mixture with optimal viscosity;
iv) an expandable frame 108 configured with said platform 101 for adjusting dimensions based on said user-specified dimensions, wherein an electronically controlled nozzle 109 assembled on said platform 101 by means of an extendable link 110 for extending/retracting for positioning said nozzle 109 onto said frame 108, in view of enabling said nozzle 109 to gradually release said mixture into said frame 108, to mold said mixture into said user-desired sheet’s shape;
v) a vibrating unit 111 integrated in said frame 108 for producing vibrational sensations to evenly spread said mixture within said frame 108, wherein plurality of Peltier units 112 are integrated in said frame 108 for providing heating/cooling effect onto said frame 108 to accelerate solidification of said sheet; and
vi) an ultraviolet (UV) light 113 installed in said frame 108 that are activated by said microcontroller to solidify said mixture for a controlled duration monitored by a timer integrated in said platform 101, before dispensing next layer of said mixture, to ensure efficient curing of said PDMS sheets, wherein a robotic arm 114 is installed on said platform 101 for removing said cured sheets from said frame 108, to allow said user to collect said user-desired sheets.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a capacitive sensor is embedded in said container 106 for measuring level of said dispensed liquids, based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of said motorized stirrer 107 for efficient mixing of said liquids to form said mixture.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an electronically controlled sprayer 115 arranged on said frame 108 for spraying oil stored in a vessel 116 configured with said sprayer 115 onto said platform 101, in view of facilitating easy removal of said prepared PDMS sheets from said frame 108.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 117 is mounted on said platform 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of said platform 101 to monitor each operation, in accordance to which said microcontroller regulates activation of subsequent operations.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a temperature sensor is embedded in said frame 108 for ensuring temperature of said mixture is within a desired range during solidification, and activates said Peltier units 112 accordingly for temperature regulation.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.