Coating machine for 3D printer, 3D printer with coating machine, purpose of coating machine and purpose of 3D printer

Abstract

Disclosed is a coating machine (10) for a 3D printer, comprising an elongated container (30), the container comprising two opposing long side walls (32, 34), an internal cavity (36) formed between the two opposing long side walls (32, 34) for receiving granular material, the cavity (36) leading to an elongated output slot (38) for outputting the granular material from the container (30) to a construction site, and a first adjustment device (50) configured to move the two long side walls (32, 34) relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions (32a, 34a) adjacent to the output slot (38), thereby variably adjusting the width (38) of the output slot.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a coating machine for a 3D printer, a 3D printer having the coating machine, the use of the coating machine and the use of the 3D printer Background Art

[0002] Various 3D printing processes (and various types of 3D printers, ie machines / devices for building components layer by layer) are known.

[0003] Some 3D printing processes have the following common steps:

[0004] (1) First, a granular material (or granular construction material) is applied on the entire surface of a construction site / continuously applied on the construction site to form a layer of uncured granular material.

[0005] (2) Selectively curing the applied layer of uncured particulate material in predetermined local areas (depending on the part to be manufactured), for example by selectively printing a (eg liquid) processing solvent, such as a bonding solvent, such as an adhesive.

[0006] (3) Steps (1) and (2) are repeated to produce the desired component. For this purpose, before applying a new layer, the construction platform on which the component is layered can be reduced in thickness by one layer (or the coating machine and the printing device can be increased in thickness by one layer).

[0007] (4) Finally, the fabricated component formed from the solidified localized regions and supported and surrounded by the loose, unsolidified particulate material can be unpacked.

[0008] The construction space in which one or more components are manufactured can be defined, for example, by a so-called component box (also called a work box, for example formed as a so-called interchangeable container). This type of component box can have a peripheral wall structure (for example formed by four vertical side walls) that is open upward and extends in the vertical direction, for example, it can be formed as a rectangle when viewed from the side. A height-adjustable construction platform can be accommodated in the construction box. In this regard, the space above the construction platform and between the vertical circumferential wall structure can, for example, at least contribute to the formation of the construction space. The upper area of ​​the construction space can, for example, be referred to as a construction site. However, the components can also, for example, be freely built on the construction platform, in which case the construction space is produced on the construction platform by layers of composite material, the construction site being defined by the topmost, most recently applied layer. In this regard, for example, a frame surrounding the periphery of the construction space can also be printed.

[0009] Building one or more three-dimensional components in the form of layers in the construction space can be carried out, for example, by selectively solidifying several adjacent layers of granular material in their respective local areas, for example by binder spraying, i.e. by (selective) combination of granular material with a (e.g. liquid) treatment agent, such as a bonding solvent, such as an adhesive.

[0010] In the above step (1), a coater (also called a recoater) is usually used. Different coaters are known to be used in 3D printers, by which the particulate material can be applied to the construction site (also called the construction surface or construction area) in the form of a uniform, full-area / continuous layer.

[0011] One type of coating machine uses a roller (so-called roller coater) in front of which a certain amount of granular material is first deposited and then moved horizontally across the construction site to apply the granular material in the form of a uniform layer to the construction site. In this regard, the roller can rotate in opposite directions.

[0012] Another type of coater (so-called container coater, e.g. slot coater) uses a container defining an inner cavity for receiving the granular material and having a (e.g. elongated) output slot (or output slot) for outputting the granular material. The container coater can, for example, be moved across the construction site (e.g. horizontally, e.g. transversely to its longitudinal direction), wherein the granular material can be output onto the construction site through the (e.g. elongated) output slot to apply a uniform, full-area / continuous layer of granular material on the construction site and the construction platform, respectively. The coater can be elongated, for example, to span or cover the length or width of a rectangular construction area.

[0013] In the above step (2), for example, a printing device with a print head can be used, which applies a (e.g. liquid) treatment agent in a controlled manner to a partial area of ​​the previously applied particulate material layer (hence - referred to as binder jetting). The treatment agent contributes to the (direct and / or later) solidification of the particulate material layer in the local area. For example, the treatment agent can be / comprises a binder, for example a binder, for example a binder component of a multi-component binder.

[0014] Alternatively, for example, a laser can be used in the above-mentioned step (2) to solidify partial regions of a previously applied layer of particulate material, in particular by sintering or melting the particulate material in these partial regions.

[0015] The present invention relates to coating machines of the second type mentioned, namely container coating machines, for example slot coating machines. Examples of container coating machines are known, for example, from DE 10 2009 056 689 A1, DE 10 2014 112 469 A1 and DE 10 2017 120 205 A1. Summary of the invention

[0016] It may be seen as an object of the present invention to provide an improved coater for a 3D printer.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it may be considered an object of the present invention to provide an alternative coater for a 3D printer.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, it may be considered that one object of the present invention is to provide a coating machine for a 3D printer which is capable of improving the reproducibility of the 3D printing process.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, it may be considered an object of the present invention to provide a coating machine for a 3D printer having improved operability.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, it may be considered an object of the present invention to provide a coater for a 3D printer that is capable of effectively and / or efficiently applying a granular material to a construction site, for example, even if the formulation changes (taking into account, for example, one or more granular materials, any additives contained in the granular materials, any binder components contained in the granular materials, the binder component to be printed, etc.).

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, it may be considered that an object of the present invention is to provide a coater for a 3D printer by which granular material can be reliably applied to a construction site, for example also having a varied formulation (taking into account, for example, one or more granular materials, any additives contained in the granular materials, any binder components contained in the granular materials, the binder component to be printed, etc.).

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, a coater (e.g., a container coater, such as a slot coater) for a 3D printer comprises an elongated (or rectangular) container having two opposing long side walls, an inner cavity for receiving granular material being formed between the two opposing long side walls, which leads to a rectangular (or elongated) output slot (e.g., an output slot) for outputting granular material from the container to a construction site, and a first adjustment device, which is configured to move the two long side walls relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions adjacent to the output slot, thereby variably adjusting the width of the output slot (e.g., making the amount of granular material discharged by the coater (onto the construction site) variably adjustable). For example, the coater can be moved across the construction site (e.g., horizontally, such as transverse to its longitudinal direction), wherein the granular material can be discharged onto the construction site through the output slot, thereby applying a uniform, full-area / continuous layer of granular material to the construction site and the construction platform, respectively. For example, the coater can be elongated or rectangular to span or cover the length or width of a rectangular construction area. For example, the first adjusting device can be configured and / or allow to adjust the slot width in a controlled and / or automated manner.For example, the first adjusting device can include one or more (e.g. electric) motors, which in turn can be connected to a controller or can be controlled by it.

[0023] For example, by moving the two long side walls relative to each other at least in their respective lower parts adjoining the output trough, the width of the output trough can be variably adjusted in a simple manner. In particular, for example, a separate device for adjusting the width of the output trough can be omitted, for example, a separate arrangement of two slides that can be moved horizontally / linearly towards and away from each other. This can, for example, simplify the construction of the coating machine. Furthermore, for example, the amount of granular material discharged from the coating machine to the construction site can be adjusted and / or metered and / or controlled in a simple and / or reliable manner.

[0024] For example, in order to move the two long side walls relative to each other at least in their respective lower parts adjacent to the output slot, the (movable) lower part of (at least) one of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot can be moved (or moved) in the direction of the (immovable) lower part of the other of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot. For example, for this purpose, the first (movable) of the two long side walls can be moved (or moved) completely in the direction of (at least a part of) the second (immovable) one of the two long side walls. Or, for example, the (two) lower parts of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot can be moved (or moved, respectively) in a direction towards each other.

[0025] The inner cavity for receiving the particulate material can be, for example, defined and / or formed by a container. For example, the container can have a short side wall at each longitudinal end. For example, the container can have two short side walls. The output slot can be located at the lower end of the container, for example. For example, the output slot can be formed by at least two lower ends (for example, two lower edges) of two long side walls, for example, forming. For example, one (the first) of the two long side walls can be (relatively) movable, and the other (the second) of the two long side walls can be non-(relatively) movable. For example, the two long side walls can be (relatively) movable. For example, the lower part of one (the first) of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot can be (relatively) movable, and the lower part of the other (the second) of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot can be non-(relatively) movable. For example, the two lower parts of the two long side walls adjacent to the output slot can be (respectively) (relatively) movable.

[0026] For example, the first adjusting device can be configured to pivot the two long side walls relative to each other at least in the corresponding lower part of the adjacent output slot, so as to variably adjust the width of the output slot. The width of the output slot can be variably adjusted or adjusted, for example by a pivoting movement, for example by a pivoting movement of the lower parts of the two long side walls of the adjacent output slot relative to each other. The pivot axis can, for example, be located outside the container (for example, outside the inner cavity). For example, the pivot axis can be (substantially) parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container. For example, the pivot axis can be arranged between the first adjusting device and the output slot in a vertical direction. For example, by a pivoting movement, the width of the output slot can be variably adjusted or adjusted in a simple and / or reliable manner.

[0027] For example, the coater may have an elongated (or rectangular) support structure to which the container and the first adjustment device are attached.

[0028] For example, the longitudinal axis of the support structure can be (substantially) parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container. For example, the container can be laterally connected to the support structure. For example, the first adjustment device can be directly attached to and / or on the upper side of the support structure or at the upper side of the support structure. The long side wall ("outer side wall") of the support structure facing away from the coater can be, for example, indirectly attached to the support structure at least in the lower part of the support structure, for example, completely, via the first adjustment device. For example, the first adjustment device can be configured to move, for example pivot, the long side wall away from the support structure of the coater in at least its lower part adjacent to the output slot. For example, at least the lower part of the support structure facing the coater of the long side wall can be non-(relatively) movable (at least non-movable for the purpose of adjusting the slot width, wherein for example the movement can be as a result of an optional wiping element, which can be formed as a swinging blade). For example, the lower part of the support structure facing the coater of (at least) the long side wall can be fixedly attached to the support structure and / or decoupled from the (relative) movement of the outer side wall. One of the two long side walls facing away from the support structure in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure is referred to as the long side wall of the support structure (of the container) facing away from the coater. For example, by moving at least the lower part of the support structure of the long side wall facing away from the coater, the width of the output slot can be variably adjusted or adjusted in a simple manner.

[0029] For example, the first adjusting device can be configured to move, for example pivot, the entire long side wall of the container facing away from the supporting structure. In this way, for example, the width of the output slot can be adjusted variably or in a simple manner.

[0030] The long side wall of the container facing the support structure (of the coater) ("inner side wall") can, for example, be divided into at least an upper part and a lower part, which can, for example, be kinematically decoupled. The first adjustment device can be configured, for example, to move, for example pivot, the entire long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure and the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure. In this way, for example, the width of the output slot can be adjusted variably or in a simple manner. For this purpose, the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure can be attached to the support structure, for example indirectly via the first adjustment device.

[0031] The long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure can be reinforced (for example by one or more reinforcing elements) by the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure, for example in the transverse direction, for example at one position in the longitudinal direction of the container (for example a position in the container, for example a position between the longitudinal ends of the container) or at several positions in succession (for example in the container, for example between the longitudinal ends of the container), for example by a corresponding sheet, which is optionally provided with through holes for distributing the screw propeller through the granular material contained in the container. In this way, for example, the relative movement of the two long side walls at least in their respective lower parts adjacent to the output slot can be carried out in a simple manner, so that the width of the output slot can be adjusted in a simple manner. One of the two long side walls that is closer to the support structure in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure is referred to as the long side wall of the container facing the support structure of the coater. For example, the long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure can be connected to the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure by a sheet.

[0032] For example, the coating machine may include an elongated wiping element. For example, the wiping element may be attached to the lower part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure. The wiping element may, for example, have the shape of a T-shaped profile and / or delimit / limit the output slot directly on the (inside) side of the slot, for example with the legs of the T-shaped profile. For example, the wiping element may at least jointly form the long side wall (e.g., the lower part) of the container facing the support structure. For example, the wiping element may be a part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure. The lower part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure may, for example, be at least jointly formed, for example, by the wiping element. For example, this may simplify the structure of the coating machine and / or allow the granular material to be reliably applied to the construction site.

[0033] The wiping element can be formed as a swinging blade, for example. For example, the swinging blade can be excited by a swinging drive attached to the support structure. For example, the swinging blade can be excited linearly in a direction parallel to the construction site. For example, the swinging drive can include an eccentric mechanism. The swinging drive can, for example, include a (e.g., electric) motor, which can, for example, be configured to drive the eccentric mechanism. For example, the swinging drive can be connected to the lower part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure through 5 or more engagement / connection points (e.g., contact points, such as support points). Thereby, for example, the swinging frequency of the swinging blade can be increased, which can increase the coating speed of the coating machine. In addition, for example, the granular material can be reliably applied to the construction site.

[0034] For example, the coating machine may comprise a second adjustment device, by which the angle of the wiping element relative to / to the construction site (e.g. relative to a coating plane defined by the construction site) can be adjusted, for example within the following range: less than or equal to 3°, for example less than or equal to 2°, for example less than or equal to 1°. For example, the coating machine may comprise a bearing seat, which is linearly movable on the construction site and to which the support structure is pivotally attached. For example, the second adjustment device may be configured to pivot the support structure relative to the bearing seat, thereby adjusting the angle of the wiping element. For example, the second adjustment device may comprise (at least) one (e.g. electric) motor, which in turn may, for example, be connected to a controller or may be controlled thereby.

[0035] By attaching the wiping element to a (further) side wall, which does not move for the purpose of adjusting the slot width, the slot width can be adjusted independently of or irrespective of the position and / or working angle of the wiping element.

[0036] For example, the coating machine can have an elongated protruding element connected to the lower part of the long side wall of the container, which is facing away from the support structure and has a protrusion extending in the longitudinal direction of the output slot and protruding toward the long side wall of the container facing the support structure. The lower part of the elongated protruding element can, for example, directly define or define the first side of the output slot. The protrusion can, for example, overlap the output slot at a vertical distance in the horizontal direction, such as by overlapping the legs of an optional T-shaped profile. For example, the protrusion can be arranged in an extension of the lower end of the long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure. For example, a part of the elongated protruding element can retreat downwardly under the protrusion, directly defining / defining the first side of the output slot. For example, the elongated protruding element can include a stepped retreat portion arranged below the protrusion and directly defining / defining the first side of the output slot. For example, the elongated protruding element can be configured to be replaceable. For example, a plurality of elongated protruding elements can be provided, and their corresponding protrusions and / or corresponding stepped retreat portions (e.g., corresponding stepwise retreats) are formed and / or sized differently. For example, the elongated protruding element can be arranged independently of the first adjusting device, and / or can be arranged independently of the two long side walls, which are movable relative to each other at least in the corresponding lower part of the adjacent output groove. The elongated protruding element can be arranged on the coating machine. The protrusion can, for example, have a long side wall facing the support structure and / or the inner cavity. The outer surface can, for example, be configured as a plane and / or can be arranged at a certain angle or tilted, particularly tilted relative to the horizontal line, for example also tilted relative to the vertical line, and / or can be arranged as an extension of the inner wall of the outer side wall or can form the latter together. The protrusion can, for example, have an angular shape (for example, a quadrilateral or a triangle) in a cross section (for example, in a cross section orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the protruding element).

[0037] For example, a channel structure / maze structure can be provided by an elongated protruding element, which leads to an output slot and by which a flow / drip behavior of the granular material can be specified / influenced, such as a stepwise reduction of the granular material from a parking position of the coater. By providing a plurality of protruding elements, a suitable protruding element can be selected for a specific granular material and can be attached to the coater, thereby enabling a large range of applications of the coater without having to accept restrictions or at the same time ensuring a suitable drip behavior for the granular material applied in each case.

[0038] For example, the upper and lower parts of the long side walls of the container facing the support structure can overlap in the vertical direction. For example, the upper and lower parts can be arranged in an overlapping area with a horizontal distance / tolerance. The upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure can, for example, be closer to the long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure in the overlapping area (for example, closer than the lower part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure). For example, the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure can be away from the support structure of the coater in the overlapping area (for example, the lower part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure). The lower end of the upper part can, for example, be configured to be angled, for example, angled inwardly toward the inner cavity, i.e. away from the lower part.

[0039] The upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure can be, for example, pivotally connected to the support structure (e.g., the middle or lower part of the upper part), for example, together with the outer side wall. The pivotable connection of the upper part to the support structure can, for example, be configured to be releasable and / or unlockable and lockable. The pivotable connection of the upper part to the support structure can, for example, be arranged in the vertical direction below the position where the container (in particular, the upper part of the outer side wall and / or the upper part of the inner side wall) is connected to the first adjustment device.

[0040] The first adjusting device may include, for example, one or more (e.g., three or more, for example, four, for example, five, for example, six, for example, seven) eccentric mechanisms associated with the container, for example, a plurality of eccentric mechanisms are arranged in series in the longitudinal direction of the container, for example, the eccentric mechanisms are driven / drivable by respective motors, respectively. A plurality of eccentric mechanisms may be, for example, arranged continuously in the longitudinal direction of the container. For example, each of the one or more eccentric mechanisms may be driven or drivable by a separate motor. In this way, for example, the width of the output slot may be variable or may be varied in a simple manner in the longitudinal direction of the slot. For example, the one or more eccentric mechanisms may realize pivoting motion by, for example, a pivotable mounting of at least the lower portion of the outer side wall. Alternatively, the one or more eccentric mechanisms may, for example, cause, for example, a linear motion of at least the lower portion of the outer side wall.

[0041] As an alternative to the above-mentioned eccentric mechanism, one or more lifting / linear drive mechanisms or one or more screw (spindle) mechanisms can be applied or used, for example, as described above for one or more eccentric mechanisms, which are connected to the container and / or arranged (for example, one after another in the longitudinal direction of the container) and / or can be driven / driven (for example, using corresponding motors respectively), and / or through which the above-mentioned effects of, for example, an eccentric mechanism can be achieved.

[0042] One or more eccentric mechanisms (or alternative mechanisms) can be connected to the container (e.g., with the upper part of the long side wall of the container facing the support structure and / or with the long side wall of the container facing away from the support structure, e.g., with (at least) its lower part), for example, via a longitudinal rod arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container, wherein the container (e.g., the upper part of its long side wall facing the support structure and / or its long side wall facing away from the support structure, e.g., with (at least) its lower part) can be, for example, rotatably connected to the longitudinal rod and the one or more eccentric mechanisms can be used, for example, to act substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal rod. In this way, for example, the width of the output slot can be varied or changed in a simple manner in the longitudinal direction of the slot. In addition, this can advantageously allow the longitudinal rod to be used as a pivot to allow a part of the support structure (e.g., the upper part of the outer wall and the inner wall) to be moved away from the longitudinal rod before / after construction by rotating the container. In the pivoted position, the container (e.g., the upper part of the outer wall and / or the inner wall) can in this case be held, for example, by one or more gas springs.

[0043] The first adjustment device is configured to selectively move the two long side walls relative to each other, e.g. at least in their respective lower portions adjoining the output slot, such that the width of the output slot varies in the longitudinal direction of the slot, e.g. with a difference / variation of up to at least 1 mm, e.g. up to at least 1.5 mm, e.g. up to at least 2 mm, e.g. up to at least 2.5 mm, e.g. up to at least 3 mm. For example, the width of the output slot in the longitudinal direction of the slot may vary, such that, e.g., a slot width of 1.5 mm is adjusted at a first longitudinal end of the output slot, a slot width of 2.0 mm is adjusted at the center of the output slot when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the output slot, and a slot width of 2.5 mm is adjusted at a second longitudinal end of the output slot (or vice versa). Alternatively, for example, the width of the output slot may vary in the longitudinal direction of the slot, such that, e.g., a slot width of 1.5 mm is adjusted at a first longitudinal end of the output slot, a slot width of 2.5 mm is adjusted at the center of the output slot when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the output slot, and a slot width of 1.5 mm is adjusted at a second longitudinal end of the output slot. Alternatively, for example, the width of the output groove can be changed in the longitudinal direction of the groove, so that, for example, a groove width of 2.5 mm is adjusted at a first longitudinal end of the output groove, a groove width of 1.5 mm is adjusted at the center of the output groove when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the output groove, and a groove width of 2.5 mm is adjusted at a second longitudinal end of the output groove.

[0044] In order to selectively move the two long side walls relative to each other, at least in their respective lower parts adjoining the output slot, in such a way that the width of the output slot varies in the longitudinal direction of the slot, for example, the first adjustment device can include a plurality of (e.g., two or more, for example, three or more, for example, four or more, for example, five or more) adjustment mechanisms and / or movement mechanisms connected to the container, for example, arranged one after another in the longitudinal direction of the container (or in the longitudinal direction of the coating machine) and / or they are, for example, driven or driven individually by corresponding motors. The adjustment mechanism and / or movement mechanism can, for example, include an eccentric mechanism (e.g., the eccentric mechanism described above) and / or a lifting / linear drive mechanism and / or a screw (spindle) mechanism, or can be formed together or by these. For example, the (multiple) adjustment mechanism and / or movement mechanism can realize a pivoting movement, for example in the case of pivotally mounting at least the lower part of the outer side wall, for example. Alternatively, the (multiple) adjustment mechanism and / or movement mechanism can cause, for example, a linear movement of at least the lower part of the outer side wall, for example.

[0045] By means of an output trough, the width of which varies in the longitudinal direction of the trough, for example, the granular material can be applied to the construction site in a particularly uniform / homogeneous manner. Thus, for example, a continuous layer of granular material with a uniform thickness can be reliably applied to the construction site over the entire surface / in a continuous manner, so that, for example, the quality of components produced in 3D printing can be improved and many components with insufficient component quality can be reduced. In addition, for example, any tolerances or warping that may occur can be compensated.

[0046] For example, the first adjusting device can be configured to adjust the width of the output slot by a maximum of 5 mm and at least 1 mm, such as a maximum of 4 mm and at least 2 mm. For example, the first adjusting device can be configured to adjust the width of the output slot by a maximum of 5 mm, such as a maximum of 4 mm, such as a maximum of 3 mm, such as a maximum of 2 mm. The first adjusting device can be configured to, for example, adjust the width of the output slot by at least 1 mm, such as at least 1.5 mm, such as at least 2 mm. For example, the coater can be configured as a unidirectional coater.

[0047] The coater and / or the 3D printer may, for example, comprise a control device. For example, the control device may be configured to control a first adjustment device (e.g. one or more eccentric mechanisms, e.g. one or more motors, by which the corresponding eccentric mechanisms can be driven or driven) so that the two long side walls are moved relative to each other in an automated / automatic manner at least in their respective lower parts adjacent to the output slot, e.g. depending on the granular material used. For example, the control device may be arranged to control a second adjustment device so that the angle of the wiping element relative to the construction site is adjusted in an automated / automatic manner, e.g. depending on the granular material used. The control device may be configured to perform the above-mentioned movement (e.g. relative movement), e.g. depending on the granular material used, for example, in an automated / automatic manner. For example, this may improve the reproducibility of the granular material layer applied to the construction site, thereby improving the 3D printing result.

[0048] According to one aspect of the invention, a 3D printer may include a coater configured as described above. For example, the 3D printer may include a print head for selectively dispensing a treatment agent, for example on a layer of loose particulate material previously applied by the coater. The print head may, for example, be part of a printing device, i.e., the 3D printer may, for example, include a printing device having a print head.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned coater can be used to apply the particulate material in the form of a layer. For example, the particulate material can be selected from sand particles, such as foundry sand, and / or salt particles, such as for casting, and / or metal particles. It should be understood that one or more additives can be added to the particulate material and / or the particulate material can further include a binder component.

[0050] According to one aspect of the present invention, the above-mentioned 3D printer can be used for layered production of casting molds and / or casting cores. For example, the casting molds and / or casting cores can be manufactured using binder jetting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Exemplary but non-limiting embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail below.

[0052] Figure 1 A first perspective view of a coating machine for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 2 A second perspective view of the coating machine for a 3D printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 3 A first perspective cross-sectional view of a coating machine for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Figure 4A second perspective cross-sectional view of a coating machine for a 3D printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0056] Figure 5 A third perspective cross-sectional view of the coating machine for a 3D printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0057] Figure 6 A fourth cross-sectional perspective view of the coating machine for a 3D printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0058] Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional view showing a coating machine for a 3D printer according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments according to which the invention may be performed. In this regard, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," etc. are used with reference to the orientation of the figures being described. Since components of the embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the terms indicating different orientations are used for illustration and should not be limiting in any way.

[0060] It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It goes without saying that, unless otherwise stated, the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined. Therefore, the following description should not be understood as restrictive, and the scope of protection of the present invention should be limited by the appended claims.

[0061] In this specification, terms such as "connected," "attached," and "coupled" may be used to describe direct and indirect connections, direct or indirect attachments, and direct or indirect couplings.

[0062] In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with the same reference numerals where appropriate.

[0063] Figures 1 to 6 A coating machine for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of a coating machine according to a first embodiment is shown. Figures 3 to 6 A perspective cross-sectional view (or cut-away perspective view) of a coater according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the cross-section is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the coater (ie wherein the cut of the coater is perpendicular to its longitudinal axis). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The same part is shown from a different angle. Figure 5 Shows the Figure 3Same section, but different perspective, Figure 5 The lower part of the coater is shown in FIG. Figures 1 to 5 The coater is shown in a granular material application state (ie, the coater is in a state in which the coater can be used to apply granular material, such as being movable on a construction site). Figure 6 The coater is shown in a deployed state (eg, in a state where the coater is deployed and easily accessible for maintenance and / or cleaning). Figure 7 A coating machine for a 3D printer according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional view (or cut-away perspective view) of a coater according to a second embodiment is shown, wherein the cross-section is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the coater (ie wherein the coater is cut perpendicular to its longitudinal axis).

[0064] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the coating machine 10 for a 3D printer has an elongated container 30 having two opposing long side walls 32, 34, forming an inner cavity 36 therebetween for receiving granular material, the granular material leading to an elongated output chute 38 for discharging the granular material from the container 30 to a construction area, and a first adjustment device 50, which is configured to move the two long side walls 32, 34 relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions 32a, 34a adjacent to the output chute 38 to thereby variably adjust the width of the output chute 38. For example, the container 30 may define or form the inner cavity 36. The output chute 38 may be located, for example, at the lower end of the container 30. The output chute 38 may, for example, be formed or defined by the two lower ends (e.g., two lower edges) of the two long side walls 32, 34.

[0065] For example, the first adjustment device 50 can be arranged to pivot the two long side walls 32, 34 relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions 32a, 34a adjacent to the output slot 38, thereby variably adjusting the width of the output slot 38. The pivoting movement can, for example, be about a pivot axis 92. To this end, for example, the lower portion 32a, 34a of at least one of the two long side walls 32, 34 can be pivotable or pivot about the pivot axis 92. For example, the pivot axis 92 can be located outside the container 30, for example adjacent to one of the two long side walls 32, 34 of the container.

[0066] like Figure 1-7As shown, the coating machine 10 may include, for example, an elongated support structure 70, to which the container 30 (e.g., (at least) a portion of the container 30) and the first adjustment device 50 are attached. For example, the first adjustment device 50 may be (directly) attached to the top side of the support structure 70. The container 30 may, for example, be connected to the support structure 70 (indirectly) by the first adjustment device 50 at its long side wall 34 facing the support structure 70, for example at its upper part 34b, on the one hand, and pivotally connected to the support structure 70 (directly), for example below the connection to the first adjustment device 50.

[0067] The first adjustment device 50 may be configured, for example, to move, for example pivot, the long side wall 32 of the support structure 70 facing away from the coater 10 , at least in its lower portion 32 a adjacent the output chute 38 , for example about a pivot axis 92 .

[0068] For example, the first adjustment device 50 can be configured to move, for example about a pivot axis 92 , for example to pivot the entire long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70 .

[0069] like Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can be divided into at least an upper part 34b and a lower part 34a that are separated by movement. The lower part 34a can, for example, include multiple (structural) components (for example, two or three or more (structural) components) or be formed by multiple (structural) components. Alternatively, the lower part 34a can, for example, be formed by one (structural) component. For example, the pivot axis 92 can be arranged adjacent to the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70, such as its upper part 34b.

[0070] For example, the first adjustment device 50 may be configured to move, eg pivot, the entire long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70 together with the upper portion 34 b of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 , eg about the pivot axis 92 .

[0071] For example, Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70 can be reinforced in the lateral direction, and the upper part 34b of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can be reinforced in the lateral direction, for example, at a position in the longitudinal direction of the container 30 (for example, in the center of the container 30) or at multiple consecutive positions, for example, a through hole 74 is optionally provided through the corresponding sheet 72 for allowing a granular material dispensing screw propeller 76 contained in the container 30 to pass therethrough.

[0072] For example, the coater can include a particulate material dispensing auger 76. For example, the particulate material dispensing auger 76 can be disposed in the container 30, such as in the inner cavity 36. For example, the particulate material dispensing auger 76 can be configured to evenly distribute particulate material in the container 30 (e.g., in the inner cavity 36 thereof). For example, the particulate material can be supplied to the inner cavity 36 via a particulate material supply opening (e.g., a particulate material supply hopper 94). The particulate material supply opening or the particulate material supply hopper 94 can be located, for example, adjacent to or at a longitudinal end of the coater 10, such as adjacent to or at a longitudinal end of the container 30. The particulate material dispensing auger 76 can be driven, for example, by a (electric) motor 98.

[0073] like Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the coater may have, for example, an elongated wiping element 78. For example, the wiping element 78 may be attached to the lower portion 34a of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70, for example, and / or may have a T-shaped profile.

[0074] For example, Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the wiper element 78 can jointly form the lower portion 34a of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70. The lower edge of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 (e.g., the lower portion 34a thereof) can be jointly formed by at least the wiper element 78, for example.

[0075] For example, Figure 7 As shown, the wiper element 78 and at least the lower portion 34a of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can be integrally formed, for example, by a rectangular or elongated hollow profile. For example, it is configured to be rectangular in cross section.

[0076] The wiping element 78 can, for example, be optionally formed as a swing blade 80, which can, for example, be excited by a swing drive 82 attached to the support structure 70, for example, linearly in a direction parallel to the construction site. The swing drive 82 can, for example, include an eccentric mechanism 84 and / or be connected to the lower part 34a of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 via 5 or more joints 86. The swing drive 82 can, for example, include an (electric) motor 96.

[0077] For example, the coating machine 10 can have a second adjustment device 90, by which the angle of the wiping element 78 relative to the construction site can be adjusted, for example, within a range of less than or equal to 3°, for example less than or equal to 2°, for example less than or equal to 1°. The coating machine 10 can have, for example, a bearing seat that can be linearly moved on the construction site and to which the support structure 70 is pivotally attached. The second adjustment device 90 can be configured, for example, to pivot the support structure 70 relative to the bearing seat so as to adjust the angle of the wiping element 78. The second adjustment device 90 can, for example, have an (electric) motor 62.

[0078] For example, Figure 5As shown, the coater can include an elongated protruding element 66, which is connected to the lower part 32a of the long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70, and has a protrusion 68 extending in the longitudinal direction. Protruding in the direction of the output slot 38 and towards the long side wall 34 facing the support structure 70. The lower part of the elongated protruding element 66 can, for example, directly define / define the first (longitudinal) side of the output slot 38. The protrusion 68 can, for example, overlap the output slot 38 at a vertical distance in the horizontal direction, such as by overlapping the legs of the optional T-shaped profile of the wiping element 78. The protrusion 68 (for example, its surface) can, for example, be arranged in an extension of the lower end of the long side wall 32 facing away from the support structure 70. For example, the stepped back portion 60 of the elongated protruding element 66 is arranged below the protrusion 68 and the first side of the output slot 38 directly defined can be stepped back. For example, the elongated protruding element 66 can be configured to be replaceable. For example, a plurality of different elongated protruding elements 66 may be provided, each having a different formation / size of the protrusion 68 and / or stepped setback portion 60. For example, different sizes / formations of the protrusion 68 and / or stepped setback portion 60 may affect (e.g., adjust and / or control) the vertical distance and / or the horizontal overlap and / or the flow of the granular material (e.g., from the container to the construction site). The elongated protruding elements 66 and / or the protrusions 68 and / or the lower portion of the elongated protruding elements 66 may, for example, at least jointly form the long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70, for example, which abuts the lower portion 32a of the output chute 38, and / or may, for example, be a portion of the long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70. The lower portion 32a of the long side wall 32 of the container 30 facing away from the support structure 70 may, for example, be jointly formed by at least the elongated protruding elements 66 and / or the protrusions 68 and / or the lower portions of the elongated protrusions, for example, forming, for example, The protrusion 68 may be formed such that the surface of the long side wall 34 (facing the support structure 70) facing and / or facing away from the protrusion 68 is arranged at an angle greater than 0° (e.g., greater than or equal to 10°, such as greater than or equal to 20°, such as greater than or equal to 30°, such as greater than or equal to 40°, such as greater than or equal to 50°, such as greater than or equal to 60°, such as greater than or equal to 70°, such as greater than or equal to 80°) and / or less than or equal to 90° (e.g., less than or equal to 80°, such as less than or equal to 70°, such as less than or equal to 60°, such as less than or equal to 50°, such as less than or equal to 40°, such as less than or equal to 30°) relative to the horizontal plane (e.g., the plane of the construction site). The cross section of the protrusion 68 (e.g., a cross section orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the protruding element 66) may, for example, have an angular shape (e.g., a quadrilateral or a triangle).

[0079] For example, Figure 3 , 4, 5 and 7, the upper portion 34b and the lower portion 34a of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can overlap in the vertical direction. The upper portion 34b and the lower portion 34a can be arranged in the overlapping area with, for example, a horizontal distance / tolerance. For example, the upper portion 34b of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can be closer to the long side wall 32 facing away from the support structure 70 of the container 30 in the overlapping area.

[0080] The upper part 34b of the long side wall 34 of the container 30 facing the support structure 70 can be pivotally connected to the support structure 70, for example, via a pivot axis 92. The pivotal connection of the upper part 34b to the support structure 70, for example, the support structure 70 can be configured to be releasable and / or unlockable and lockable to allow the coating machine 10 to be opened for cleaning thereof, or to release the connection to the pivot axis 92 for this purpose. The connection of the pivotable upper part 34b to the support structure 70 can be arranged, for example, in the vertical direction below the position where the container 30 is connected to the first adjustment device 50.

[0081] The first adjustment device 50 may include, for example, one or more (e.g., three or more) eccentric mechanisms 52 connected to the container 30. For example, the first adjustment device 50 may include a plurality of (e.g., three or more) eccentric mechanisms 52 arranged in series in the longitudinal direction of the container 30. One or more eccentric mechanisms 52 may, for example, be driven individually or by a corresponding (electric) motor 54. Thus, for example, the first adjustment device 50 may be configured to selectively move, for example, pivot, the two long side walls 32, 34 relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions 32a, 34a adjacent to the output slot 38, so that the width of the output slot 38 varies in the longitudinal direction of the slot.

[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first adjustment device 50 may include, for example, three eccentric mechanisms 52 arranged in sequence in the longitudinal direction of the container 30, which are connected to the container 30 and driven by respective motors 54, and the eccentric mechanisms 52 may be arranged on / at the support structure 70, for example, on its upper side. The eccentric mechanisms 52 and / or the corresponding motors 54 may, for example, be adjustable / drivable or adjustable / driven, so that the two long side walls 32, 34 are at least in their respective lower parts 32a, 34a adjacent to the output slot 38 as shown in the figure, and can be selectively movable or movable (for example, pivotable or pivotable) relative to each other, so that the width of the output slot 38 is variable or changeable in the longitudinal direction of the slot.

[0083] One or more eccentric mechanisms 52 can be connected to the container 30, for example, via a longitudinal rod 56 arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container 30, wherein the container 30 is rotatably connected to the longitudinal rod 56 and the one or more eccentric mechanisms 52 act substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal rod 56 for adjusting the groove width.

[0084] For example, the longitudinal rod 56 may further be or serve as a rotation axis or pivot for pivoting a portion of the container 30 (e.g., the long side wall 32 facing away from the support structure 70 and the upper portion 34b of the long side wall 34 facing the support structure) away from the support structure 70 when the pivot axis 92 is released. This allows, for example, a screen 64 (e.g., a granular material screen 64) disposed in the container 30 to be easily accessible for maintenance and / or cleaning.

[0085] The first adjustment device 50 can, for example, be configured to selectively move, for example pivot, the two long side walls 32, 34 relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions 32a, 34a adjacent to the output slot 38, so that the width of the output slot 38 varies in the longitudinal direction of the slot, for example with a difference / variation of up to at least 1 mm, for example up to at least 1.5 mm, for example up to at least 2 mm.

[0086] For example, Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, for example, three eccentric mechanisms 52 can be arranged in series along the longitudinal direction of the coating machine 10 (or along the longitudinal direction of the container 30) and can be connected to a part or component of the container 30 via a longitudinal rod 56. The part or component of the container 30 connected to the eccentric mechanism 52 can, for example, pivot about the pivot axis 92 ("a pivotable part or component"). For example, in Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the entire long side wall 32 and the upper portion 34b of the long side wall 34 are pivotable (and thus form a pivotable portion or component) about the pivot axis 92. For example, the pivoting (pivotable portion or component) can move the lower portion 32a of the long side wall 32 adjacent to the output slot 38 in a direction toward or away from the lower portion 34a of the long side wall 34 adjacent to the output slot 38, thereby allowing the width of the output slot 38 to be changed or adjusted. For example, if the eccentric mechanism 52 located at the center of the coater 10 (or the center of the container 30) is controlled in a manner that pushes the longitudinal rod 56 away from it (to the left in FIG. 7), the width of the output slot 38 is reduced in the center of the coater 10. For example, if the eccentric mechanism 52 arranged on the outside in the longitudinal direction of the coater 10 is controlled in a manner that pulls the longitudinal rod 56 toward them (to the left in FIG. 7), the width of the output slot 38 is reduced in the center of the coater 10. Figure 7 For example, if the eccentric mechanism 52 is arranged on the outside to control the longitudinal direction (right side in the figure) of the coating machine 10 at the same time by pulling the longitudinal rods 56 toward them, Figure 7), the width of the output slot 38 increases at the two longitudinal ends of the coating machine 10. In this way, for example, an adjustment of the width of the output slot 38 can be achieved, wherein the width of the output slot 38 varies in the longitudinal direction of the slot in such a way that the width of the output slot 38 is greater at the two longitudinal ends of the output slot 38 than at the center of the output slot 38. The longitudinal rod 56 and / or the pivotable part or component and / or the container 30 and / or the long side wall 32 and / or the lower part 32a of the longitudinal rod 56, the long side wall 32 and / or the long side wall 34 and / or the upper part 34b of the long side wall 34 can, for example, include (at least some) deformable and / or bendable material or consist of or be made thereof (e.g., bendable and / or deformable material), for example in such a way that the above-mentioned adjustment can be easily and reliably achieved. For example, by using four or more eccentric mechanisms 52, a "wave-like" or multiple alternating adjustment of the width of the output slot 38 can be obtained, for example.

[0087] Alternatively or in addition to the eccentric mechanism 52 described above, for example, a mechanism or equivalent mechanism that functions in a similar manner (e.g., an adjustment mechanism and / or a moving mechanism), such as a lifting / linear drive mechanism and / or a screw (spindle) mechanism, may be employed or used. It should be understood that alternative embodiments are possible or may be used to transfer force and / or motion from the eccentric mechanism 52 (or its alternative mechanism) to a pivotable component or portion of the container 30; for example, the eccentric mechanism 52 (or its alternative mechanism) may be in direct contact and / or connection with a pivotable component or portion of the container 30 (i.e., without the longitudinal rod 56).

[0088] The first adjustment device 50 may be configured, for example, to adjust the width of the output slot 38 by a maximum of 5 mm and at least 1 mm, for example a maximum of 4 mm and at least 2 mm. The coater 10 may be configured, for example, as a unidirectional coater 10 .

[0089] For example, a 3D printer may include the coater 10 described above and a print head for selectively dispensing a treatment agent onto a layer of loose particulate material applied by the coater 10 (eg, onto a construction site).

[0090] The above-described coater 10 may be used, for example, to apply a particulate material in the form of a layer, which may be selected from, for example, sand particles, such as foundry sand, and / or salt particles, such as for foundry, and / or metal particles.

[0091] The above-described 3D printers can be used, for example, to produce casting molds and / or casting cores layer by layer, for example by means of binder jetting.

Claims

1. A coating machine (10) for a 3D printer, comprising: An elongated container (30) having two opposite long side walls (32, 34), an inner cavity (36) for receiving granular material is formed between the two opposite long side walls (32, 34), the inner cavity (36) leads to an elongated output chute (38), and the output chute (38) is used to output the granular material from the container (30) to a construction site. Features: a first adjustment device (50) configured to move the two long side walls (32, 34) relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions (32a, 34a) adjacent to the output slot (38), thereby variably adjusting the width of the output slot (38); The first adjustment device (50) is configured to selectively move the two long side walls (32, 34) relative to each other at least in the respective lower portions (32a, 34a) thereof adjacent to the output slot (38) in such a way that the width of the output slot (38) varies in the longitudinal direction of the output slot (38).

2. The coating machine (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first adjustment device (50) is configured to pivot the two long side walls (32, 34) relative to each other at least in their respective lower portions (32a, 34a) adjacent to the output slot (38), thereby variably adjusting the width of the output slot (38).

3. The coating machine (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an elongated support structure (70) to which the container (30) and the first adjustment device (50) are attached, in, The first adjustment device (50) is configured to pivot a first long side wall (32) at least in a first lower portion (32a) thereof adjacent to the output chute (38), the first long side wall (32) facing away from the support structure (70) of the coating machine (10).

4. The coating machine (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The first adjustment device (50) is configured to pivot the entire first long side wall (32) of the container (30) facing away from the support structure (70).

5. The coating machine (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The second long side wall (34) of the container (30) facing the support structure (70) is subdivided into at least an upper portion (34b) and a second lower portion (34a) that are movably separated, Wherein, the first adjustment device (50) is configured to pivot the entire first long side wall (32) of the container (30) facing away from the support structure (70) together with the upper part (34b) of the second long side wall (34) of the container (30) facing the support structure (70).

6. The coating machine (10) according to claim 5, further comprising: an elongated wiping element (78) attached to a second lower portion (34a) of a second long side wall (34) of the container (30) facing the support structure (70) and having a T-shaped profile, wherein the wiping element (78) is formed as an oscillating blade (80), which can be excited by an oscillating drive (82) attached to the support structure (70), and / or The invention also comprises a second adjusting device (90), through which the angle of the wiping element (78) relative to the construction site is adjusted, and / or an elongated protruding element (66) attached to the first lower portion (32a) of the first long side wall (32) of the container (30) facing away from the support structure (70) and having a protrusion (68) extending in the longitudinal direction of the output slot (38) and protruding in a direction toward the second long side wall (34) facing the support structure (70), wherein the lower portion of the elongated protruding element (66) directly defines a first side of the output slot (38) and the protrusion (68) overlaps the output slot (38) at a vertical distance in the horizontal direction, The elongated protruding element (66) is constructed to be replaceable, and a plurality of elongated protruding elements (66) are provided, and the corresponding protrusions (68) have different shapes.

7. The coating machine (10) according to claim 5, in, The upper portion (34b) and the second lower portion (34a) of the second long side wall (34) of the container (30) facing the support structure (70) overlap in the vertical direction.

8. The coating machine (10) according to claim 5, in, The upper portion (34b) of the second long side wall (34) of the container (30) facing the support structure (70) is pivotally connected to the support structure (70), Wherein, the pivotable connection of the upper portion (34b) to the support structure (70) is configured to be arranged vertically below a position at which the container (30) is connected to the first adjustment device (50).

9. The coating machine (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first adjusting device (50) comprises a plurality of eccentric mechanisms (52) connected to the container (30), and the plurality of eccentric mechanisms (52) arranged in sequence in the longitudinal direction of the container (30) are respectively driven by respective motors (54).

10. The coating machine (10) according to claim 9, wherein: The plurality of eccentric mechanisms (52) are connected to the container (30) via a longitudinal rod (56) arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the container (30), wherein the container (30) is rotatably connected to the longitudinal rod (56), and the plurality of eccentric mechanisms (52) act perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal rod (56).

11. The coating machine (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first adjustment device (50) is configured to adjust the width of the output slot (38) by a maximum of 5 mm and at least 1 mm, and / or Wherein, the coater (10) is configured as a unidirectional coater (10).

12. A 3D printer having a coater (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a print head for selectively outputting a treatment agent onto a layer of loose particulate material applied by the coater (10).

13. Use of a coating machine (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 in a layer of granular material of sand.

14. Use of a 3D printer according to claim 12 for producing casting moulds and / or casting cores in layer form.

Images