3D printer construction box system, 3D printer, 3D printer system, use of construction box system and 3D printing method

Abstract

A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) is disclosed, comprising: a construction box (30), the construction box having a side wall structure (32) and a construction platform (34) accommodated in the side wall structure (32), the side wall structure (32) defining an upwardly open construction box interior space (36) for building parts by 3D printing, the interior space (36) being restricted downward by the construction platform (34); and a first support structure (50), the support structure including its own drive (52), the drive being integrated into the first support structure (50) and the construction box (30) being releasably connected to the drive, so that the construction box (30) can be repeatedly removed (50) from the support structure after building parts in the construction box interior space (36), and can be subsequently reconnected to the first support structure (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a construction box system for a 3D printer, a 3D printer comprising the construction box system, a 3D printer system comprising the 3D printer, use of the construction box system and a 3D printing method. Background Art

[0002] Various generative manufacturing processes and 3D printing processes (as well as various types of 3D printers, ie machines / structures for building up parts layer by layer) are known.

[0003] Some production manufacturing processes have the following common steps:

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

[0005] (2) The uncured applied layer of particulate material is selectively cured in predetermined partial regions (depending on the component part to be produced), for example by selectively printing a treatment agent, such as an adhesive, or, for example, by laser sintering.

[0006] (3) Steps (1) and (2) are repeated to produce the desired component. To this end, the building platform on which the component is built up in layers can be lowered, for example, by one layer thickness each (or, for example, the coating machine and the printing device can be raised, each by one layer thickness), before a new layer is applied.

[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 construction box (also called a "work box" or "exchange container"). This type of construction 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, when viewed from above, it can be formed as a rectangle. 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. For example, the upper area of ​​the construction space can be referred to as a construction site. For example, an example of a construction box is described in DE102009056696A1. Another example of a construction box is described in DE202006010327U1, for example.

[0009] In step (1) above, a coater (also called a "recoater") is usually used. Various coaters are known for use in 3D printers, by which granular building material can be applied to a building area (also called building surface or building region) in the form of a uniform layer / continuous layer over the entire surface.

[0010] One type of coating machine uses a roller (short for "roller coater"), in front of which a certain amount of granular construction material is first deposited, and then moves horizontally across the construction site to spread the granular construction material to the construction site in an even layer. In this regard, the roller can rotate in the opposite direction to the direction of movement.

[0011] Another type of coating machine (so-called "container coater", e.g. "trough coater") uses a container defining an inner cavity for receiving the particulate structure material, having a (e.g. elongated) output region, e.g. comprising a (e.g. elongated) output trough, for outputting the particulate structure material. The container coater can be moved, e.g. horizontally, e.g. transversely to its longitudinal direction, across the construction site, wherein the particulate material can be output through the (elongated) output region onto the construction site, thereby applying a continuous / uniform layer of construction material over the entire surface of the construction site and the construction platform, respectively. The coater can be elongated, e.g. to span or cover the length or width of a rectangular construction site or construction space.

[0012] In step (2) above, the treatment agent can be applied in a controlled manner to the previously applied particulate material layer in partial regions, for example using a printing device with a print head (so-called binder jetting). The treatment agent contributes to the (direct and / or later) curing of the construction material layer in the partial regions. For example, the treatment agent can be / contains a binder, for example a binder, for example a binder component of a multi-component binder.

[0013] Alternatively, for example, a laser can be used in the above-mentioned step (2) to solidify a partial region of a previously applied layer of building material, in particular by sintering or melting the granular material in this partial region. Summary of the invention

[0014] It may be considered an object of the present invention to provide a build box system for a 3D printer and a 3D printing method capable of efficiently manufacturing parts by 3D printing.

[0015] To this end, the present invention provides a construction box system for a 3D printer, a 3D printer, a 3D printer system, uses of the construction box system, and a 3D printing method.

[0016] According to various aspects of the present invention, a construction box system for a 3D printer includes a construction box having a side wall structure (e.g., a construction box side wall structure) and a construction platform accommodated in the side wall structure, the side wall being used to construct a component (e.g., at least one component, such as one or more components) by 3D printing (e.g., by means of 3D printing) an upwardly open construction box interior space (e.g., a construction space) which is defined downward by the construction platform, and a support structure, which includes a drive integrated into the support structure itself and the construction box is releasably (e.g., repeatedly, such as multiple times) connected to (e.g., fixable, such as attached, such as fixed) the support structure so that the construction box can be repeatedly removed from the support structure (e.g., detached and removed) after construction, the component is placed in the construction box interior space and then reconnected (e.g., fixed, such as connected and fixed) to the support structure.

[0017] Since the building box is separable from the support structure, the building box can, for example, be supplied separately from the support structure to a process after 3D printing (so-called post-processing), such as unpacking and / or curing and / or drying of the components produced in the building box. At the same time, another building box can be arranged on the support structure, for example, 3D printing can be carried out, or 3D printing can be carried out in another building box, for example, building components in parallel / simultaneously with the post-processing. The process is carried out in one building box. For example, this allows shorter idle times for the individual components of the building box system (such as the building box and / or the support structure). Since the support structure has its own drive integrated into the support structure, the building box can, for example, be constructed without a drive device (i.e., without its own drive integrated into the building box). This, for example, enables a simple and cost-effective assembly of a (e.g. corresponding) building box, while still being able to simply handle the building box via the (e.g. common) support structure. In addition, the building box can then be made available for post-processing of a type that has conditions that are harmful to the support structure and its drive, for example. Thus, the build box system enables, for example, an efficient implementation of a 3D printing process and / or an efficient production of 3D printed parts and / or an efficient operation of a 3D printer or a 3D printer system.

[0018] For example, the side wall structure of the construction box may have at least one side wall (e.g., four side walls). For example, the side wall structure of the construction box may be composed of four side walls (e.g., construction box side walls). The construction box side wall structure (e.g., four construction box side walls) may have, for example, a rectangular shape in a plan view, for example, including two long sides and two short sides.

[0019] The drives integrated into the support structure may comprise, for example, a lifting drive for adjusting the height of the build platform (eg a build platform lifting drive) for adjusting the height of the build platform of the build box when the build box is connected to the support structure.

[0020] By means of a lifting drive integrated into the support structure, the building platform can be moved, for example, in a controlled and automated manner, between an uppermost position, in which the building platform is arranged at the beginning of a 3D printing process, and a lowermost position, in which the building platform is held by a / holding structure (for example, a holding structure described below) (in which the building platform is arranged, for example, at the end of a / 3D printing process). For this purpose, the lifting drive can, for example, be coupled or connected to a control device (for example, a central control device of a 3D printer, for example a control device integrated into the support structure). Thus, a device for adjusting the height of the building platform integrated into the building box can be omitted. A device for adjusting the height of the building platform integrated in or arranged on the 3D printer can also be omitted.

[0021] The drive integrated in the support structure may, for example, include a movement drive for moving the support structure (e.g. a support structure movement drive), which is arranged to move a build box system (e.g. a support structure movement drive) on which the build box is arranged) between a first position (e.g. a build position) and a second position in which the build box system is arranged, the build box system being arranged in the first position (e.g. a build position), the build box system being arranged in the 3D printer for building components, for example, outside the 3D printer, for example along a rail system or a roller system extending between the first position and the second position.

[0022] By means of a mobile drive integrated into the support structure, the building box system can be moved, for example, in a controlled and automated manner between a first position and a second position. To this end, the mobile drive can, for example, be coupled or connected to a control device (for example, a central control device of a 3D printer, for example a control device integrated into the support structure). Thus, a separate device for moving the building box system or the support structure can be omitted. It is also possible to omit a device for moving the building box system or the support structure that is integrated into or arranged on the 3D printer.

[0023] For example, the second position may be a position for detaching (e.g., removing) the build box from the support structure and / or connecting (e.g., fixing) it to the support structure. For example, the second position may be a position for detaching and removing the build box from the support structure and / or for connecting the build box to the support structure and / or for replacing or substituting the build box on the support structure. For example, the second position may be a build box replacement position and / or a build box replacement position.

[0024] If the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive are integrated into the support structure of the build box system, corresponding devices of the 3D printer for adjusting the height of the build platform and / or moving the support structure and / or the build box system, for example, between a / a first position and a / a second position can be omitted. This can, for example, simplify the assembly of the 3D printer. In addition, for example, maintenance work on the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive can be easily and cost-effectively carried out outside the 3D printer, while the 3D printer can continue to operate, for example, with another build box system.

[0025] The mobile drive and / or the lifting drive can be configured as at least one electric motor, for example. For example, a plurality of electric motors can be provided as the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive, respectively, and these electric motors are controlled to operate synchronously or are coupled to each other. The mobile drive can be composed of one electric motor, for example, and the lifting drive can be composed of two electric motors that are synchronized with each other, for example. The mobile drive and / or the lifting drive can have a vertical drive shaft, for example.

[0026] The support structure can be electrically connected to the 3D printer, for example, via a towing or rolling cable chain, for example, to a central control device of the 3D printer, which can be arranged to control the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive, and / or to a central power supply of the 3D printer. However, in order to control the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive, the support structure can also, for example, include a control device integrated into the support structure or arranged on the support structure. For the power supply of the mobile drive and / or the lifting drive, the support structure can also, for example, be formed with a battery or include a battery.

[0027] For example, the lifting drive can be arranged to drive at least one (e.g., two) spindle drives arranged on the support structure. For example, the lifting drive can drive at least one (e.g., two) spindle drives arranged on the support structure. For example, the support structure may include at least one (e.g., two) shaft drive devices, connected to the support structure and drivable or driven by the lifting drive. The spindle drive (e.g., each of the two spindle drives) may include, for example, a (e.g., rotatable) screw and a spindle nut. The spindle drive or the screw spindle may be rotatably arranged, for example, adjacent to the support structure side wall structure and the support structure side wall, respectively. The screw may, for example, be connected to the lifting drive (e.g., fixedly, for example, releasably, for example, through a coupling). For example, two motors may be provided as lifting drives, each of which drives a spindle drive, wherein each spindle drive includes, for example, a rotatable screw and a spindle nut, and wherein two spindle drives are arranged, for example, adjacent to the opposite support structure side wall. The spindle drive or the rotatable screw may include, for example, a vertical rotation axis.

[0028] For example, the mobile drive can be arranged to drive at least one gear fixed to the support structure. For example, the mobile drive can drive at least one gear fixed to the support structure. For example, the support structure can include at least one gear connected to the support structure, which can be driven or driven by the mobile drive. For example, the gear can be connected to the mobile drive (e.g. fixedly, for example releasably, for example by a coupling). For example, the gear can be connected to the lower side of the support structure. The gear can be connected to the outer side of the support structure, for example in the lower area of ​​the outer side. The gear can include, for example, a vertical wheel plane or a horizontal wheel plane. The gear can be, for example, a vertical gear or a horizontal gear. For example, there may be a plurality of gears connected to the support structure, which are driven by a common motor through a gearbox or by independent motors running synchronously. The gear fixed to the support structure can, for example, cooperate with a rack. For this purpose, the gear can, for example, be combined with a rack and roll on the rack when driven by the mobile drive, so that the construction box system can be moved along the rack. For example, the rack can include a transverse tooth surface, in which the gear with a horizontal wheel plane is laterally combined. The rack can be arranged, for example, between two rolling or sliding tracks of a track system, for example adjacent to one of the two rolling or sliding tracks, along which the support structure can slide / roll the slide. Alternatively, the rack can be formed, for example, by one of the two rolling or sliding tracks on which the support structure stands, the side surface of the rolling or sliding track being provided with teeth for this purpose.

[0029] For example, when the construction box is connected to the support structure, the lifting drive and / or the moving drive and / or the spindle drive can be arranged outside the side wall structure of the construction box, for example in a top view of the construction box system from above, the construction box is adjacent to the side wall structure of the construction box and / or adjacent to at least one side wall of the support structure, for example in the case of a longitudinally elongated construction box in front of and / or behind the side wall structure of the construction box and / or in the direction in front of and / or behind at least one side wall of the support structure. Thus, the construction box system can be designed, for example, with a low height and thus in a compact manner. In addition, for example, the lifting drive and / or the moving drive and / or the spindle drive can be easily accessible.

[0030] For example, the support structure can be formed to be elongated and the lifting drive and / or the mobile drive and / or the spindle drive can be arranged, for example, at least at the longitudinal ends of the support structure. For example, the mobile drive can be arranged at the first longitudinal end of the support structure and the lifting drive can be arranged at the first longitudinal end and at the second longitudinal end of the support structure. As a result, the construction box system, for example, can have a low height and is thus formed to be compact. In addition, for example, the lifting drive and / or the mobile drive and / or the spindle drive can be easily accessible.

[0031] The construction platform may, for example, engage from below or contact from below one or more support structures (e.g. adjustable in the vertical direction or in the height direction), such as one or more support arms (e.g. comprising an L structure), which are connected to a lifting drive (e.g. fixedly, such as releasably, such as by a coupling) and can be driven by it when the construction box is connected to the support structure. In the side wall structure of the construction box and / or the support structure side wall structure, for example, one or more grooves (e.g. longitudinal grooves extending in the height direction) may be formed, through which one or more support structures extend. The groove may, for example, extend from the lower end (e.g. lower edge) of the support structure side wall structure or the construction box side wall structure in an upward direction (e.g. vertically upward). For example, the groove may be arranged (e.g., with an extension (e.g., length) in the height direction (or vertical) direction) so that the construction platform can be moved between the lowest positions in which the construction platform is held. The uppermost position in which the holding structure (e.g., the holding structure described below) and the floor (e.g., upper part or upper part, such as the work surface) of the construction platform are substantially flush with the upper edge of the construction box side wall structure (and the construction platform is arranged at the beginning of the 3D printing process). For example, the support structure can be connected to the spindle nut (e.g. fixedly, e.g. releasably), for example, by a support structure fastening member to which the support structure is fastened and connected to the spindle nut (e.g. fixedly, e.g. releasably). In this way, for example, a safe and reliable height adjustment of the building platform can be achieved. Furthermore, thereby, for example, the building box system can be designed to be compact and reliable.

[0032] For example, one or more support structures may be adjusted or regulated in height direction (or vertical direction) by means of a lifting drive. For example, one or more support structures may each extend through an associated slot in a support structure side wall structure, such as through an associated slot in a support structure side wall, such as towards an opposing support structure side wall. One or more support structures may, for example, be arranged to releasably contact the build platform when the build box is connected to the support structure, such as so that the build platform may be moved vertically (or in height direction) by the support structure.

[0033] For example, the lifting drive and / or the mobile drive and / or the spindle drive can be arranged in the space formed between the supporting structure side wall and the covering plate wall of the supporting structure. Thus, for example, the lifting drive and / or the mobile drive and / or the spindle drive can be easily approached.

[0034] For example, the support structure may include a support structure sidewall structure that surrounds the sidewall structure of the construction box in a manner that is at least segmented in the circumferential direction, for example, surrounds it at two end faces of the elongated construction box, for example, completely surrounds it. Surrounds it at two end faces of the elongated construction box, for example, when the construction box is connected to the support structure. For example, the support structure sidewall structure can be formed to correspond to the shape of the sidewall structure of the construction box. For example, the shape of the support structure sidewall structure can be complementary to the sidewall structure of the construction box. For example, the support structure sidewall structure can have at least one support structure sidewall (for example, two support structure sidewalls). Thus, for example, easy connection of the construction box to the support structure and / or easy removal of the construction box from the support structure can be achieved.

[0035] For example, the support structure and / or the support structure side wall structure may have two opposing support structure side walls, between which the construction box may be connected, for example such that parts of the side wall structure of the construction box (e.g. two short construction box side walls) are arranged adjacent to the support structure side walls (e.g. parts of the support structure side walls) (e.g. at a distance of 5 cm or less, such as 3 cm or less, for example 1 cm or less), for example, when the construction box is connected to the support structure. Thus, for example, an easy connection of the construction box to the support structure and / or an easy removal of the construction box from the support structure may be achieved. A drive (e.g. a lifting drive and / or a movement drive) may, for example, be arranged adjacent to at least one of the two support structure side walls on a side of the support structure side wall facing away from the construction box.

[0036] The support structure side wall structure can, for example, surround the side wall structure of the construction box in sections in the circumferential direction (for example, when the construction box is connected to the support structure), thereby forming at least one recess. For example, the size of the recess can be designed so that the construction box can be laterally removed from the support structure and / or reconnected to the support structure, for example through the recess. The support structure side wall structure can, for example, include two opposing recesses, each of which can, for example, be sized so that the construction box can, for example, be laterally removed from the support structure and / or reconnected to the support structure through the corresponding recess. At least one (for example two) recess can, for example, extend along the (corresponding) long side of the side wall structure of the construction box. Thus, for example, an easy connection of the construction box to the support structure and / or an easy removal of the construction box from the support structure can be achieved.

[0037] The support structure sidewall structure may, for example, include a plurality of (for example, two) support structure sidewalls or may be formed (for example, formed) by at least these sidewalls together. For example, the support structure may be formed to be elongated. For example, the support structure may be formed to be rectangular in a plan view, for example, with two short sides and two long sides. The support structure or the support structure sidewall structure may include, for example, two support structure sidewalls arranged in front and behind the construction box (for example, adjacent to the sidewall structure of the construction box) (for example, in the longitudinal direction). The construction box, for example, is close to the short side of the construction box when the construction box is arranged on the support structure. The support structure or the support structure sidewall structure may include, for example, a first support structure sidewall and a second support structure sidewall, the first support structure sidewall being arranged (for example, in the longitudinal direction) in front of the support structure. The construction box (for example, adjacent to the first part of the construction box sidewall structure, for example, adjacent to the first short side of the construction box) and the second support structure sidewall (for example, in the longitudinal direction) are arranged behind the construction box (for example, adjacent to the second part of the construction box sidewall structure, for example, adjacent to the second short side of the construction box), when the construction box is arranged on the support structure. The lifting drive and / or the moving drive and / or the spindle drive can be arranged, for example, near at least one support structure side wall (for example, two support structure side walls), for example, when the construction box is arranged on the support structure, on the side of the (corresponding) support structure side wall facing away from the construction box.

[0038] For example, when the construction box is arranged on a support structure, the construction box may for example be supported by the support structure such that upper edges of side wall structures of the construction box are arranged at substantially the same height as the support structure, upper edges of the side wall structures of the support structure.

[0039] For example, the support structure may include at least one (e.g., two) construction box support components for supporting the construction box when the construction box is arranged on the support structure. When the construction box is arranged on the support structure, at least one construction box support component may be arranged, for example, below the construction box. At least one construction box support component may be formed by at least a support structure side wall structure (e.g., by a support structure side wall), for example. At least one construction box support component may be connected to, for example, a support structure side wall structure (e.g., a support structure side wall), for example, the support component may be connected to each when the construction box is arranged on the support structure, two support structure side walls are arranged (e.g., in the longitudinal direction) in front and behind the construction box. For example, the support structure may include two opposing construction box support components. For example, the two opposing construction box support components may each extend between the two support structure side walls and have a lower height than the support structure side walls (e.g., a lower extension in the vertical direction). The two opposing construction box support components may, for example, be arranged on opposing support structure side walls.

[0040] The support structure may for example comprise two (e.g. opposite) support structure side walls and two (e.g. opposite) construction box support members, wherein, for example, the two support structure side walls are arranged in front of and behind the (e.g. elongated) support structure. When the construction box is arranged on the support structure, the construction box and / or the two support structure side walls are arranged adjacent to a side wall structure of the construction box (e.g. a portion thereof, e.g. a short side), and wherein, for example, the two construction box support members are arranged such that the construction box is supported by the two construction box support members when the construction box is arranged on the support structure. Thus, for example, an easy connection of the construction box to the support structure and / or an easy removal of the construction box from the support structure may be achieved.

[0041] For example, when the support structures are in the lowest position, one or more support structures may have a lower height (e.g., a lower extension in the vertical direction) than the build box support components. Thus, for example, easy connection of the build box to the support structures and / or easy removal of the build box from the support structures may be achieved.

[0042] The support structure may, for example, comprise a construction box fixing device, by means of which a construction box releasably connected to the support structure can be fixed, for example so that the construction box (e.g. the construction box side wall structure) is stably (e.g. in a fixed manner, e.g. non-movably) held in a desired position. For example, the construction box fixing device may comprise at least one bolt (e.g. two or four bolts), which is arranged to engage with a bolt receiving opening provided on the construction box. For example, the construction box may be fixed in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction by the support structure side wall structure (e.g. by two support structure side walls) and by the construction box fixing device.

[0043] For example, the support structure may include a lateral guide roller. For example, the guide roller may be connected to the lower side of the support structure. The guide roller may, for example, be connected to the outer side of the support structure, for example in the lower area of ​​the outer side. The guide roller may have, for example, a vertical rolling axis. The guide roller connected to the support structure may, for example, cooperate with two guide rails on which the guide roller rolls. One of the two guide rails may, for example, be formed by a rack, i.e., by the side surface of the rack opposite to the tooth surface, for example, by the outer surface of the rack, the inner surface of the rack forming the tooth surface. For example, the other guide rail may be formed by one of the above-mentioned two rolling or sliding tracks, for example, by the inner surface of the track. However, for example, the two guide rails may also be formed by rolling or sliding guide rails, or two separate guide rails may be provided. The lateral guide roller may be used, for example, to center the support structure in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of travel, so that the construction box system can be moved to the first position in a targeted manner. Therefore, the construction box system may be individually centered / fixed in the first position in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of travel.

[0044] The support structure may, for example, comprise two or more slide rails, by means of which the support structure rests in a sliding manner on corresponding rails of the track system. The rails of the track system may, for example, be rolling rails, i.e. comprising rollers on which the slides roll. Alternatively, the rails of the track system may also be sliding rails, i.e. comprising sliding surfaces on which the slides slide.

[0045] For example, the support structure may include a tapered alignment recess, such as a tapered recess. The 3D printer (e.g., its frame) may be connected to it, for example, an alignment component that can be adjusted horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the construction box system, the alignment component including a tapered end (e.g., an alignment spindle, such as a tapered spindle), which laterally engages the alignment recess in the first position of the construction box system. The alignment recess of the support structure and the adjustable alignment member of the 3D printer together constitute a construction box system fixing system for aligning the construction box system along the direction of travel of the construction box system and fixing the construction box system in the 3D printer (for example, to its frame). In addition, the construction box system fixing system, for example, may include a fixing component (e.g., a bolt) disposed on the 3D printer (e.g., on its frame) and having a flat end that can be adjusted to clamp. Abut against a stop plate fixed to the support structure. For example, guide rails on opposite sides of the support structure can be used as a support. In addition, the construction box system fixing system may, for example, include a sensor for determining the position of the construction box system, in particular whether the construction box system is in the first position. To this end, for example, the sensor target can be connected to the support structure. Furthermore, the build box system fixing system may for example comprise a control system which controls the driving of the alignment component and the fixing component such that the alignment component moves into the alignment recess and the fixing component is pressed against the stop plate when the sensor detects that the build box system is in the first position.

[0046] The construction box may have, for example, a rectangular shape in plan view, with two opposite short construction box side walls and two opposite long construction box side walls. For example, the length of the construction box may be 1.2 m or more (e.g., 1.3 m or more, e.g., 1.4 m or more, e.g., 1.5 m or more) and 2.0 m or less (e.g., 1.9 m or more). m or less, e.g., 1.8 m or less, e.g., 1.7 m or less, e.g., 1.6 m or less). For example, the construction box may have a width of 0.7 m or more (e.g., 0.8 m or more, e.g., 0.9 m or more, e.g., 1.0 m or more) and 1.3 m or less (e.g., 1.2 m). m or less, e.g., 1.1 m or less). For example, the construction box may have a height of 0.3 m or more (e.g., 0.4 m or more, e.g., 0.5 m or more) and 0.8 m or less (e.g., 0.7 m or less, e.g., 0.6 m or more). m or less, e.g., 0.5 m or less).

[0047] The construction box may, for example, respectively have one or more construction box side wall openings, for example in the form of one or more grooves (for example longitudinal grooves), on one or more construction box side walls, for example in the structure of each short construction box side wall, wherein the one or more construction box side wall openings may, for example, extend vertically upwards from the lower edge of the construction box side wall structure.

[0048] For example, the construction box may include a retaining structure (e.g., a construction platform retaining structure) configured to retain the construction platform in the lowest position in the construction box. For example, the retaining structure may include a plate fixed to, for example, a construction box side wall structure (e.g., fixed to its lower end) or at least formed by it together (e.g., formed) when the construction platform is in the lowest position in the construction box, the construction platform is supported on it. For example, when the construction platform is in the lowest position in the construction box, the construction platform can rest on the plate. For example, when the construction box is arranged on the support structure, the plate can rest on the construction box support member. For example, the plate may have one or more openings (e.g., grooves, such as longitudinal grooves), for example, extending inwardly from the outer edge of the plate. For example, the support structure can be arranged so that the construction platform (e.g., the upper part or upper part of the construction platform, such as the working surface of the construction platform) is arranged at a position above its lowest position or more than the construction box side wall opening. For example, the construction platform can have a thickness (e.g., extension in the height direction or the vertical direction) equal to or greater than the length (and extension in the vertical direction and the height direction, respectively) of the construction box side wall opening. This may, for example, eliminate the need for complex means for closing the opening of the construction box side wall. The holding structure may, for example, have or may be at least jointly formed (e.g. formed of) one or more protrusions, which, for example, protrude inwardly from the side wall structure of the construction box for, for example, from the short and / or long construction box side wall towards the opposite (construction box) side wall on which the construction platform is supported when the construction platform is in the lower / lowest position in the construction box.

[0049] For example, the construction box may be connected to the support structure so that both short construction box side walls are arranged adjacent to a portion of the support structure side wall structure (e.g., adjacent to the corresponding support structure side wall, e.g., adjacent to one of the two support structure side walls), e.g., at a distance of 5 cm or less (e.g., 3 cm or less, e.g., 1 cm or less), respectively. For example, the construction box may have at least one (e.g., two) construction box side wall openings at each short construction box side wall, the openings being arranged to allow the support structure to extend therethrough when the construction box is opened. The construction platform is arranged on the support structure so that the height can be adjusted by vertical movement (and movement in the height direction, respectively) of the support structure, e.g., between the lowest position / lowest position at which the construction platform is held, the support structure (e.g., plate) and the floor (e.g., upper part and upper part, e.g., work surface) of the construction platform are arranged in a highest position at a height substantially the same as the upper edge of the construction box side wall structure (and the construction platform is arranged at the start of the 3D printing process).

[0050] For example, the construction box may be free of drive means. For example, the construction box may be free of movable elements. For example, the construction box may be formed without drive means and / or without movable elements. Thus, the construction box may, for example, be constructed in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0051] For example, the construction box may include a heating device. The heating device, for example, may be arranged on and / or in the construction platform. The side wall structure of the construction box may be made of, for example, ceramic, metal such as cast metal, stainless steel or a combination thereof. The construction platform may include, for example, a metal floor, for example a cast metal floor, or a stainless steel floor, or a ceramic floor. For example, ceramic materials have good microwave radiation transmission capabilities and are therefore very suitable for construction boxes to be subjected to microwave post-treatment. The construction platform may, for example, include an exit device, for example, including a perforated floor and a closing device to remove particulate material from the interior space of the construction box.

[0052] The construction box may comprise, for example, a construction box removal device adapted to connect the construction box to the support structure and / or to remove the construction box from the support structure. The construction box removal device, for example, may be arranged on a construction box side wall structure of the construction box. The construction box removal device may be arranged on a retaining structure, such as a plate, for example below the plate, for example on a side of the plate facing away from the interior space of the construction box. For example, the construction box removal device may comprise at least one (for example two) forklift recess, in which the forks of a forklift may be engaged. For example, this allows the construction box to be easily and quickly connected to the support structure and / or removed from the support structure and / or easily and quickly replaced.

[0053] For example, the support structure can be arranged to be microwave-incompatible. A microwave-incompatible support structure is understood to be a support structure that cannot be post-processed in a microwave, for example because parts of the support structure, such as a driver, are damaged or destroyed during processing and / or because parts of the support structure are made of materials that are not suitable for microwave processing. For example, a construction box can be arranged to be microwave-compatible. A microwave-compatible construction box refers to a construction box that can be post-processed in a microwave. For example, a driveless construction box, i.e. a construction box without a driver, can be microwave-compatible.

[0054] For example, the building platform may include a floor (e.g., one of the above-mentioned floors) and a floor support structure (e.g., on which the floor rests). For example, the floor may include one or more (e.g., two, e.g., four) floors, which may, for example, be surrounded (e.g., surrounded) by a floor frame structure. The floor support structure may have, for example, a honeycomb structure. For example, the honeycomb structure allows good radiation transmission (e.g., microwave radiation) and is therefore very suitable for a building box to be subjected to (microwave) post-processing. The floor and / or the floor frame structure and / or the floor support structure may be made of, for example, metal, such as cast metal, stainless steel and / or ceramic. For example, the building platform may be replaceably or interchangeably accommodated in a side wall structure of the building box. For example, the building platform may be removable from the side wall structure of the building box. For example, a building platform removal device may be connected to the building platform and is arranged to remove the building platform from the side wall structure of the building box. For example, the building platform may be arranged so that the building platform removal device is connectable to the building platform. The building platform removal device may, for example, comprise or at least be formed (eg formed) together by a number (eg four) of eyebolts, each of which may be screwed into a thread (eg an internal thread) provided on the building platform.

[0055] For example, the construction box system may include one or more additional construction boxes, each of which may be replaced with a (first) construction box and connected to the support structure. The one or more additional construction boxes may, for example, be formed as described above. For example, the one or more additional construction boxes may be formed like the above construction boxes or may be different from the above construction boxes.

[0056] The build box system may, for example, comprise one or more additional build platforms, each of which may, for example, each be replaceable with a (first) build platform and receivable in a side wall structure of the build box. The one or more additional build platforms may, for example, be formed as described above. For example, the one or more additional build platforms may be formed like the above-described build platforms or may be different from the above-described build platforms.

[0057] The building box system may, for example, comprise a rail system or a roller system along which the support structure with the building box connected thereto can be moved, for example, by means of a movement drive which is itself integrated in the support structure. For example, the rail system or the roller system may be constructed as described above.

[0058] The building box system, for example, may comprise a control device, which is arranged, for example, to control a lifting drive and / or a displacement drive and / or a heating device and / or an outlet device. The control device may comprise, for example, a central control device (first control device) of the 3D printer and / or a control device (second control device) integrated or arranged on the support structure, wherein, for example, the control device (second control device) integrated into the support structure or arranged on the support structure may be arranged to control the lifting drive and / or the displacement drive and / or the heating device and / or the outlet device, wherein, for example, the central control device (first control device) may be arranged to control a coater (for example, a coater for applying a layer of particulate material to the building platform) and / or a print head (for example, a print head for selectively printing particulate material by a binder jetting method), wherein, for example, the central control device (first control device) may be connected to the control device (second control device) integrated in the support structure.

[0059] According to various aspects of the invention, a 3D printer has a build box system that can be formed, for example, as described above, and a coater for applying a particulate material in layers onto a build platform and / or a print head for selectively printing the particulate material using a binder jetting method.

[0060] According to various aspects of the present invention, a 3D printer system has a 3D printer, which can be, for example, formed as described above, and includes one or more boxes and a microwave device and / or an oven selected from an unpacking station for parts built from a build box, wherein a build box can be accommodated for curing and / or drying parts set in the build box.

[0061] According to various aspects of the present invention, the above-mentioned construction box system, the above-mentioned 3D printer and / or the above-mentioned 3D printer system can be used for 3D printing of casting molds and / or casting cores and / or casting cores, for layering granular materials onto a construction platform, and selectively printing the granular materials using a binder jetting method.

[0062] According to various aspects of the present invention, a 3D printing method comprises the following steps:

[0063] There is provided a construction box system which may be formed as described above, wherein the construction box is connected to a support structure,

[0064] Build parts by 3D printing in the internal space of the construction box.

[0065] removing the build box from the support structure, e.g. in an automated manner, and

[0066] The removed construction box is provided to post-processing, e.g.

[0067] Disassembling the constructed components from the disassembled construction boxes, e.g., at an unpacking station, and / or

[0068] Curing and / or drying the build components in the removed build box, for example in a microwave apparatus and / or oven, and / or

[0069] Connecting the build box to the support structure, such as reconnecting the same build box after disassembling a built part, or connecting a different build box (replacing the build box), and then optionally rebuilding the part in the build box by 3D printing the interior space of the build box.

[0070] Brief Description of the Figures

[0071] Exemplary but non-limiting embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail below.

[0072] Figure 1 A perspective view of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment is shown.

[0073] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 , with the covering wall omitted.

[0074] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 , where the construction box is omitted. Therefore, Figure 3 A perspective view of a support structure of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the covering board walls have been omitted.

[0075] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 View of the supporting structure shown in , rotated 180° about the vertical rotation axis, with the covering plate walls omitted.

[0076] Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 A view in which one side wall of the supporting structure is omitted.

[0077] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 The view of the supporting structure is omitted. Figure 6 A perspective view of a build box of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a first embodiment is shown.

[0078] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 The view of the two side walls is omitted.

[0079] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 , in which the construction platform is omitted.

[0080] Fig. 9 for Figure 6 A perspective view of the build platform of the build box shown.

[0081] Fig.10 Shows Fig. 9 Another perspective view of the construction platform is shown.

[0082] Fig.11 A perspective view of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a second embodiment is shown.

[0083] Fig.12 A perspective view of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a third embodiment is shown.

[0084] Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 A view of the slab walls and the construction box is omitted. Fig.13 A perspective view of a support structure of a build box system for a 3D printer according to a third embodiment is shown, in which the covering board walls have been omitted.

[0085] Fig.14 Shows Fig.13 View of the supporting structure shown in , rotated 180° about the vertical rotation axis, with the covering plate walls omitted.

[0086] Fig.15 Shows Fig.12 Another perspective view of the build box system is shown with the side walls of the build box omitted.

[0087] Fig.16 A perspective view of a build box of a build box system for a 3D printer is shown.

[0088] Fig.17 A perspective view of a build platform of a build box of a build box system for a 3D printer is shown.

[0089] Fig.18 A perspective view of a build platform of a build box of a build box system for a 3D printer is shown.

[0090] Fig.19 A perspective view of a 3D printer is shown.

[0091] Fig. 20 Shows Fig.19Another perspective view of the 3D printer shown in. Specific embodiments

[0093] 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 may 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.

[0094] 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 detailed description should not be construed as restrictive, and the scope of protection of the present invention should be limited by the appended claims.

[0095] 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.

[0096] In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with the same reference numerals where appropriate.

[0097] The support structures, build boxes and build platforms shown in the figures and described below may be combined with one another in any desired manner.

[0098] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a first embodiment. Figures 3 to 5 A perspective view of a first support structure 50 of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a first embodiment. Figures 6 to 8 A perspective view of a build box 30 of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a first embodiment. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 A perspective view of a build platform 34 of a build box 30 of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a first embodiment. Fig.11 A perspective view of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a second embodiment. Fig.12 A perspective view of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a third embodiment. Fig.13 and 14 A perspective view of a first support structure 50 of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a third embodiment. Fig.15 A perspective view of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown according to a third embodiment. Fig.16 A perspective view of a build box 30 that may be used in a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12 is shown, such as in a build box system 10 according to a third embodiment. Fig.17 and 18 Shown is a perspective view of a build platform 34 that may be used in a build box 30 of a build box system 10 for a 3D printer 12, such as in a build box 30 of a build box system 10 according to the first, second or third embodiments. Fig.19 and 20 A perspective view of a 3D printer is shown.

[0099] As shown in the figure, the construction box system 10 for the 3D printer 12 according to the embodiment has a construction box 30, which has a side wall structure 32 and a construction platform 34 accommodated in the side wall structure 32, the side wall structure 32 defines an upwardly open construction box internal space 36 for building parts in 3D printing, and is restricted downward by the construction platform 34, and a first support structure 50, whose own drive 52 is integrated into the first support structure 50 and the construction box 30 is releasably connected to the first support structure 50 so that after building parts in the construction box internal space 36, the construction box 30 can be repeatedly removed from the first support structure 50 and then reconnected to the first support structure 50.

[0100] For example, Figures 2 to 5 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the drive 52 integrated into the first support structure 50 may include, for example, a lifting drive 54 for adjusting the height of the building platform 34, which is configured to adjust the height of the building platform 34 of the building box 30 when the building box 30 is connected to the first support structure 50.

[0101] The lifting drive 54 may be formed, for example, by two electric motors synchronized with each other, each having a vertical drive shaft. For example, the lifting drive 54 (e.g., each of the two electric motors) may be arranged to drive a spindle drive 80. The / each spindle drive 80 may, for example, include a rotatable screw spindle 82 having a vertical axis of rotation and a spindle nut 84. The screw spindle 82 may, for example, be connected to the lifting drive 54, for example via a belt or chain.

[0102] For example, Figure 2 , 3As shown in FIG. 14 , the drive 52 integrated into the first support structure 50 may include, for example, a movement drive 56 for moving the first support structure 50, which is configured to move the build box system 10 between a first position in which the build box system 10 is configured to build a part in the 3D printer 12 and a second position in which the build box system 10 is configured, for example, outside the 3D printer 12, for example, along a rail system 14 or a roller system extending between the first and second positions (see, for example, Fig.19 and 20 ).

[0103] The mobile drive 56, for example, can be formed by an electric motor with a vertical drive axis. The mobile drive 56 (e.g., an electric motor) can be configured to, for example, drive a gear 90 fixed to the first support structure 50. The gear 90 can, for example, be connected to the mobile drive 56. For example, the gear 90 can be connected to the lower side of the first support structure 50 and / or can have a horizontal wheel plane and / or a horizontal gear. The gear 90 fixed to the first support structure 50 can, for example, be configured to cooperate with a rack, for which purpose the gear 90 can, for example, be configured to engage the rack and roll on the rack when driven by the mobile drive 56, so that the construction box system 10 can move along the rack.

[0104] For example, Figures 2 to 5 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the lifting drive 54 and / or the spindle drive 80 and / or the mobile drive 56 can be arranged in a space formed between, for example, the support structure side walls 58a, 58b and the cover plate walls 86a, 86b. The lifting drive 54 and / or the spindle drive 80 and / or the mobile drive 56 can be arranged, for example, near the support structure side walls 58a, 58b, for example, on one side of the support structure side wall 58a, 58b facing away from the construction box 30.

[0105] The lifting drive 54 and / or the moving drive 56 can be arranged outside the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30, for example, when the construction box 30 is connected to the first support structure 50, for example, the construction box system 10 adjacent to the construction box 30 in the plan view is adjacent to the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 and / or adjacent to at least one supporting structure side wall 58a, 58b of the first support structure 50, for example in the following case: a slender construction box in the longitudinal direction in front of and / or behind the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 and / or in front of and / or behind at least one supporting structure side wall 58a, 58b of the first support structure 50.

[0106] The first supporting structure 50 may be formed, for example, to be elongated, and the lifting drive 54 and / or the moving drive 56 may be provided, for example, at at least one longitudinal end of the first supporting structure 50 .

[0107] For example, Fig.12 and 15 As shown, the building platform 34 can, for example, be coupled to one or more second support structures 70 from below, for example, one or more support arms 72, which are in communication with an elevator and can be driven by the drive 54 when the building box 30 is connected to the first support structure 50, wherein optionally, one or more slots 74, 78 are formed in the side wall structure 32 of the building box 30 and / or the support structure side wall structure 58, extending through the one or more second support structures 70.

[0108] For example, Figure 5 As shown, the second support structure 70 may be connected to the spindle nut 84 , for example, via a support structure fastening member 88 to which the second support structure 70 is fastened and which is connected to the spindle nut 84 .

[0109] The first support structure 50 may include, for example, a support structure side wall structure 58 which surrounds the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 at least in sections in the circumferential direction, for example surrounding it on both end faces of the elongated construction box 30 .

[0110] The support structure side wall structure 58 may be segmented around the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30, for example, in the circumferential direction, thereby forming recesses 60, the recesses 60 being sized, for example, so that the construction box 30 can be laterally removed from the first support structure 50 and / or reconnected to the first support structure 50 through the recesses 60. The support structure side wall structure 58 may include, for example, two opposing recesses 60, each sized, for example, so that the construction box 30 can be laterally removed from the first support structure 50 and / or reconnected to the first support structure 50 through the corresponding recess 60. At least one recess 60 may, for example, extend along a long side of the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30.

[0111] For example, Figure 1 , 2 , 11, 12 and 15, the construction box 30 can be supported, for example, by the first support structure 50, so that the upper edge of the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 is arranged at a height substantially the same as the upper edge of the support structure side wall structure 58 when the first support structure 50 is arranged on the construction box 30.

[0112] For example, the first support structure 50 may include at least one construction box support member 108 for supporting the construction box 30 when the construction box 30 is disposed on the first support structure 50. For example, the construction box support member 108 may be disposed on the support structure sidewall structure 58. For example, the first support structure 50 may include two opposing construction box support members 108. The one or more second support structures 70 may have, for example, a lower height (e.g., a lower extension in the vertical direction). When the second support structures 70 are in their lowest position (e.g., see Figures 13 to 15 ), construct the direction of the box support component 108).

[0113] For example, the construction box 30 may have a rectangular shape in plan view, with two opposing short construction box side walls 32b, 32d and two opposing long construction box side walls 32a, 32c.

[0114] For example, Figure 6 , 8 As shown in Figures 16 and 16, the construction box 30 may have, for example, on one or more construction box side walls 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, for example, on each short construction box side wall 32b, 32d, respectively, one or more construction box side wall openings 76, for example in the form of one or more grooves 78, and the one or more construction box side wall openings 76 extend vertically upward from the lower edge of the construction box side wall structure 32.

[0115] The build box 30 may include, for example, a retaining structure 38 configured to retain the build platform 34 in a lowermost position within the build box 30. For example, Figures 6 to 8 16, the retaining structure 38 may, for example, include a plate 40 disposed on the build box sidewall structure 32. For example, the retaining structure 38 (e.g., the plate 40) may be configured so that the build platform 34 (e.g., the build platform 34) is disposed at its lowest position above one or more build box sidewall openings 76 (see, e.g., Figure 7 and 8 ).

[0116] For example, the construction box 30 may include a construction box removal device 104, which is arranged to connect the construction box 30 to the first support structure 50 and / or remove it from the first support structure 50. For example, the construction box removal device 104 or the construction box removal device 104 may be arranged on the construction box side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30. The construction box removal device 104 may be arranged, for example, on the plate 40, for example below the plate 40, for example on one side of the plate. The plate 40 faces away from the construction box interior space 36. The construction box removal device 104 may include, for example, two forklift recesses 106, into which the forks of a forklift can be engaged and which are respectively arranged to be engaged by the forks of a forklift.

[0117] The first support structure 50 can be, for example, microwave incompatible and / or the construction box 30 can be, for example, microwave compatible. For example, the construction box 30 can have no drive means and / or no moving elements. The side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 can be, for example, made of ceramic, metal such as cast metal, stainless steel, or a combination thereof.

[0118] The build platform 34 may include, for example, a metal floor, such as a cast metal floor, or a stainless steel floor, or a ceramic floor. For example, a heating device may be disposed on and / or in the build platform 34. The build platform 34 may include, for example, an exit device, such as including a perforated floor and a closure device, to remove particulate material from the build box interior space 36.

[0119] For example, Fig. 9 , 10 , 17 and 18, the construction platform 34 may include, for example, a floor 94 and a floor support structure 96 on which the floor 94 is supported. The floor 94 may include, for example, one or more floor panels 98, which may be surrounded by, for example, a floor frame structure 100. The floor support structure 96 may have, for example, a honeycomb structure. The floor 98 and / or the floor frame structure 100 and / or the floor support structure 96 may be made of metal, such as cast metal, stainless steel and / or ceramic. The construction platform removal device 102 may be connected to the construction platform 34, for example, and is configured to remove the construction platform 34 from the side wall structure 32 of the construction box 30 (for example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment shown, the build platform removal device 102 is formed by four eyebolts which can be screwed into threads provided on the build platform 34; the eyebolts must be removed from the build platform 34 before the 3D printing process.

[0120] The construction box system 10 may, for example, include one or more additional construction boxes 30, each of which may be interchangeable with a construction box 30 and connectable to the first support structure 50, wherein the one or more additional construction boxes 30 may, for example, be formed as described above and / or may be different from the construction box 30. The construction box system 10 may, for example, include one or more additional construction platforms 34, each of which may be interchangeable with a construction platform 34 and may receive one or more of the construction boxes 30 in the side wall structure 32, wherein the one or more additional construction platforms 34 may, for example, be formed as described above and / or may be different from the construction platform 34. The construction box system 10 may, for example, include a track system Fig.14 Or a roller system along which the support structure 50 with the building box 30 connected thereto can be moved, for example by means of its own integrated movement drive 56 on the support structure 50.

[0121] The construction box system 10 may, for example, include a control device which is arranged to control the lifting drive 54 and / or the movement drive 56 and / or the heating device and / or the outlet device. For example, the control device may be integrated into the first support structure 50 and / or into the 3D printer. For example, Fig.11 As shown, the construction box system 10 may include, for example, a control box 92 disposed on the first support structure 50, and the control device is disposed in the control box (the control device is integrated into the first support structure 50). In addition, the control box 92 may also have, for example, at least one battery disposed therein to power the drive of the support structure.

[0122] 3D printer 12 may, for example, include the build box system 10 described above, and may further include a coater for applying the particulate material in layers onto build platform 34 and / or a print head for selectively printing the particulate material using a binder jetting method.

[0123] For example, the 3D printer system may include the 3D printer 12 described above and may further include an unpacking station for unpacking built parts from a build box 30 and / or a microwave device and / or an oven, wherein the build box 30 may receive for curing and / or drying the parts disposed in the build box 30.

[0124] The above-described build box system 10, the above-described 3D printer 12 and / or the above-described 3D printing system may be used, for example, to 3D print casting molds and / or casting cores and / or to apply particulate material in layers to the build platform 34 and selectively print the particulate material using a binder jetting method.

[0125] For example, a 3D printing method may include the following steps:

[0126] (a) providing a 3D printer 12 with the build box system 10 described above, wherein the build box 30 is connected to the first support structure 50,

[0127] (b) building components by 3D printing in the build box interior space 36 of the build box 30,

[0128] (c) removing the construction box 30 from the first support structure 50, for example in an automated manner, and further

[0129] (d1) The disassembled construction box 30 is provided for post-processing, such as

[0130] (d1a) disassembling the constructed components from the disassembled construction box 30, for example, at an unpacking station, and / or

[0131] (d1b) curing and / or drying the removed build components in the build box 30, for example, in a microwave apparatus and / or oven, and / or

[0132] (d2) Connecting the build box 30 to the first support structure 50, for example reconnecting the same build box 30 after disassembling the built components, or connecting a different build box 30, optionally subsequently by rebuilding the box interior space 36 of the component build box 30 by 3D printing during construction.

Claims

1. A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12), comprising: A construction box (30) having a side wall structure (32) and a construction platform (34) accommodated in the side wall structure (32), wherein the side wall structure (32) defines an upwardly open construction box interior space (36) for building parts by 3D printing, and the interior space (36) is limited downward by the construction platform (34); and a first support structure (50), the support structure comprising its own drive (52) which is integrated into the first support structure (50) and to which the build box (30) is releasably connected, such that the build box (30) is repeatedly removed from the first support structure (50) and subsequently reconnected to the first support structure (50) after building a component in the build box interior space (36); The driver (52) integrated into the first support structure (50) comprises: a lifting drive (54) for adjusting the height of the construction platform (34) and arranged to adjust the height of the construction platform (34) of the construction box (30) when the construction box (30) is connected to the first support structure (50), and A mobile drive (56) for moving the first support structure (50), the mobile drive being configured to move the construction box system (10) between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the construction box system (10) is configured to build a component in the 3D printer (12), and in the second position the construction box system (10) is disposed outside the 3D printer (12) along a track system (14) or a roller system extending between the first and second positions.

2. The construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 1, wherein: When the construction box (30) is connected to the first support structure (50), the lifting drive (54) and / or the moving drive (56) are arranged outside the side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30), close to the construction box (30), adjacent to the side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30) and / or adjacent to at least one support structure side wall (58a, 58b) of the first support structure (50), and in the case of an elongated construction box (30), in front of and / or behind the side wall structure (32) in the longitudinal direction and / or in front of and / or behind at least one support structure side wall (58a, 58b) of the first support structure (50), and / or The first supporting structure (50) is formed to be elongated, the lifting drive (54) and / or the moving drive (56) are arranged at at least one longitudinal end of the first supporting structure (50), and / or The building platform (34) is engaged or contacted from below by one or more second support structures (70), which are connected to the lifting drive (54) and are driven by the lifting drive (54) when the building box (30) is connected to the first support structure (50), wherein one or more slots (74, 78) are formed in the side wall structure (32) of the building box (30) and / or in the support structure side wall structure (58), and one or more second support structures (70) extend through the slots.

3. A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The first support structure (50) comprises a support structure side wall structure (58) which surrounds the side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30) in a manner at least sectioned in the circumferential direction.

4. A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 3, in, The support structure side wall structure (58) circumferentially surrounds the side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30) in a segmented manner along the circumferential direction, thereby forming a recess (60), the size of which enables the construction box (30) to be laterally removed from the first support structure (50) and / or reconnected to the first support structure (50) through the recess (60), wherein the support structure side wall structure (58) comprises two opposing recesses (60), each recess being sized so that the construction box (30) can be laterally removed from the first support structure (50) and / or reconnected to the first support structure (50) through the corresponding recess (60), Wherein, the at least one recess (60) extends along a long side of the side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30).

5. The construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 3, in, The construction box (30) is arranged on the first support structure (50), and the construction box (30) is supported by the first support structure (50) so that the upper edge (30) of the side wall structure (32) of the construction box is arranged at substantially the same height as the upper edge of the support structure side wall structure (58).

6. The build box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) of claim 1, wherein: The construction box (30) has a rectangular shape in a plan view, with two opposite short construction box side walls (32b, 32d) and two opposite long construction box side walls (32a, 32c).

7. A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 6, in, The construction box (30) has one or more construction box side wall openings (76) on one or more construction box side walls (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d), respectively, on each short construction box side wall (32b, 32d), in the form of one or more grooves (78), and the one or more construction box side wall openings (76) extend vertically upward from the lower edge of the side wall structure (32).

8. A construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 7, in, The construction box (30) includes a retaining structure (38) configured to retain the construction platform (34) in a lowest position in the construction box (30), wherein the retaining structure (38) comprises a plate (40) arranged on the side wall structure (32), and / or wherein the retaining structure (38) is arranged so that the building platform (34) is arranged in its lowest position above one or more of the building box side wall openings (76).

9. The construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 1, in, The side wall structure (32) of the construction box (30) is made of ceramic, metal or a combination thereof, and / or Wherein, the construction platform (34) comprises a metal floor, and / or Wherein, the heating device is arranged on and / or in the construction platform (34), and / or wherein the construction platform (34) comprises an exit device, including a perforated floor and a closure device, to remove particulate material from the interior space (36) of the construction box, and / or wherein the first support structure (50) is microwave incompatible and / or the construction box (30) is configured to be microwave compatible, and / or The construction box (30) has no drive device and / or no movable elements.

10. The construction box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to claim 9, further comprising One or more additional construction boxes (30), adapted to replace the construction boxes (30) respectively, are connected to the first support structure (50), wherein: The one or more additional construction boxes (30) are formed like the construction box (30) or are formed differently from the construction box (30), and / or one or more additional building platforms (34), which are suitable for replacing the building platform (34), respectively, and are accommodated in the side wall structure (32) of the building box (30), wherein the one or more additional building platforms (34) are formed like the building platform (34) or are formed differently from the building platform (34), and / or a rail system (14) or a roller system, along which the first support structure (50) and the construction box (30) connected thereto are moved by means of its own movement drive (56) integrated in the first support structure (50), and / or A control device is provided, wherein the control device is configured to control the lifting drive (54) and / or the moving drive (56) and / or the heating device and / or the outlet device.

11. A 3D printer (12) comprising a build box system (10) according to any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a coater for applying a particulate material in layers to the build platform (34) and / or a print head for selectively printing the particulate material using a binder jetting method.

12. A 3D printer system, comprising the 3D printer (12) according to claim 11 and one or more selected from the following: an unpacking station for unpacking the building components from the building box (30), A microwave device and / or oven, adapted to accommodate the building box (30), is used to cure and / or dry the components arranged in the building box (30).

13. A construction box system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, a 3D printer (12) according to claim 11 or a use of a 3D printer system according to claim 12, 3D printing of casting moulds and / or casting cores, and / or For applying a particulate material in layers onto the building platform (34), the particulate material is selectively printed using a binder jetting method.

14. A 3D printing method, comprising: A build box system (10) for a 3D printer (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is provided, wherein the build box (30) is connected to the first support structure (50), building components in the construction box interior space (36) of the construction box (30) by 3D printing, and removing the construction box (30) from the first support structure (50), Further including: The disassembled construction box (30) is sent to post-processing, which includes disassembling the building components from the disassembled building box (30), and / or curing and / or drying the built components in the removed build box (30), and / or Connecting the build box (30) to the first support structure (50) includes reconnecting the same build box (30) after disassembling the build components, or connecting another build box (30) and then rebuilding the components in the build box interior space (36) of the build box (30) by 3D printing.

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