Differentially Heated HBP

• What? A heated bed optimized for low energy consumption: Differential heating could allow localized heating of the heated bed for small prints.
• How? Through the use of small size heating elements distributed across the whole area of the heated bed and the use of materials with low heat conductivity.
• Why? While prototyping small parts or producing small quantities of small parts there are large areas of the heated bed that are not in use but which still get heated.

Is it possible? Likely.
Is it useful? Yes, as far as energy consumption is significantly reduced. Aim? 30% reduction.

"General description of the concept" A main plate made of a material with low heat conductivity (ceramic, glass-ceramic) with a thickness of around about 3mm. The plate could be a standalone plate or could be fitted or manufactured with a lattice for rigidity if necessary. Small individually controlled heating elements are fitted (glued, painted) on the underside. The heated elements can be painted using conductive graphite ink directly on the bed material or on small mica squares or hexagons that could later be attached to the bed.

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