3D printing device and 3D printing method

Abstract

The embodiment of the present invention relates to the technical field of 3D printing, and discloses a 3D printing device and a 3D printing method, wherein the device comprises: at least two printing modules and at least one platform motion mechanism, wherein: the printing module comprises a print head and a printing platform, the print head is arranged above the printing platform; at least one of the printing platforms is connected to the platform motion mechanism, and the platform motion mechanism is used to control the relative movement of the printing platform, so that the parts printed on at least two printing platforms can be docked. The application of the technical solution of the present invention can improve the printing efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of 3D printing, and in particular to a 3D printing device and a 3D printing method. Background Art

[0002] 3D printing equipment is a kind of equipment that uses 3D printing technology to achieve customized industrial production. The basic working principle is to use a nozzle to stack and solidify the molten printing material layer by layer according to the digital model file to achieve part molding. In some customized scenarios of complex parts, the switching of printing materials will be involved, and different printing materials may require different nozzles.

[0003] In the related art, in order to improve printing efficiency, a 3D printing device is provided with a set of switchable nozzles, including multiple nozzles. During the printing process, different nozzles can be switched in time to discharge materials. However, in actual production, such a printing device still cannot meet the requirements of printing efficiency. Summary of the invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present application provides a 3D printing device and a 3D printing method, which are used to solve the problem of low printing efficiency of 3D printing devices in the prior art.

[0005] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a 3D printing device, the device comprising at least two printing modules and at least one platform motion mechanism, wherein:

[0006] The printing module comprises a printing head and a printing platform, wherein the printing head is arranged above the printing platform;

[0007] At least one of the printing platforms is connected to the platform motion mechanism, and the platform motion mechanism is used to control the relative movement of the printing platforms so that parts printed on at least two of the printing platforms can be docked.

[0008] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism includes a rotating component, which is connected to the printing platform and is used to control the printing platform to rotate in a vertical plane so that the connecting surfaces of at least two parts printed on the printing platforms are docked.

[0009] In an optional embodiment, the rotating assembly includes a connecting rod and a support rod, one end of the connecting rod is connected to a mounting plate, and the other end is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform, one end of the support rod is slidably connected to the connecting rod, and the other end of the support rod is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform.

[0010] In an optional manner, the connecting rod includes a rotating shaft, and the rotating shaft rotates along the axis of the connecting rod.

[0011] In an optional embodiment, it also includes a shell, the printing module is arranged inside the shell, a longitudinal guide rail is arranged on the side of the shell, the mounting plate is slidably connected to the longitudinal guide rail, and the mounting plate slides on the longitudinal guide rail to provide a movement space that facilitates the movement of the printing platform.

[0012] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism includes a linear motion component, which is connected to the printing platform and is used to control the movement of the printing platform on a horizontal plane so that the connecting surfaces of at least two parts printed on the printing platform can be docked.

[0013] In an optional manner, it further includes a lifting platform, which is arranged below the printing platform and moves in a vertical direction to provide a movement space that facilitates the movement of the printing platform.

[0014] In an optional manner, a clamping assembly is also provided on the printing platform, and the clamping assembly is used to fix the parts printed on the printing platform on the printing platform.

[0015] In an optional manner, the clamping assembly includes a fixing rod and a clamping rod, one end of the fixing rod is vertically arranged on the edge of the printing platform, and the other end of the fixing rod is hinged to the clamping rod.

[0016] In an optional manner, it also includes a top guide rail, and the top of the print head is slidably arranged in the top guide rail.

[0017] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a 3D printing method is provided, the method comprising:

[0018] Controlling two print heads to print a plurality of sub-parts on at least two printing platforms, wherein the plurality of sub-parts are different parts of the same part;

[0019] When the print heads have finished printing the sub-parts respectively, the printing is stopped, and the printing platform is controlled to move by the platform movement mechanism so that the connection surfaces of the plurality of sub-parts are in contact with each other;

[0020] The print head is controlled to continue printing on the connecting surface until the plurality of sub-parts are merged into one part.

[0021] The beneficial effects of the present application are as follows: different parts of the same part can be printed simultaneously on multiple printing platforms through two independent printing modules, and the printing platforms are controlled to move relative to each other through the platform motion mechanism, so that the connecting surfaces of the parts printed on multiple printing platforms are in contact with each other, and the parts of multiple printing platforms are continuously printed, and multiple parts can be integrated into a whole. Compared with printing complete parts directly on one platform, the present invention greatly improves the printing efficiency.

[0022] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the embodiment of the present invention, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the embodiment of the present invention more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present invention are listed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings are only used to illustrate the embodiments and are not to be considered as limiting the present invention. In addition, the same reference symbols are used to represent the same components throughout the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a 3D printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the structure of a rotating assembly of a 3D printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0026] Figure 3 A schematic structural diagram of a lifting platform according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0027] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the structure of a print head of a 3D printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0028] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of a clamping assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0029] Figure 6 A flow chart of a 3D printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing a printing state of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing a clamping state of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram showing a joining state of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Fig.10 A schematic diagram showing an end state of an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0035] In order to solve the technical problem of low printing efficiency of 3D printing equipment, an embodiment of the present application provides a 3D printing equipment, which includes at least two printing modules and at least one platform motion mechanism, each printing module includes a print head and a printing platform, and the print head is arranged above the printing platform. At least one platform motion mechanism is connected to the printing platform, and can control the printing platform to move, so that the relative position of at least two printing platforms changes, wherein the relative position may include relative distance, relative angle and other positional relationships. Using two or more print heads, different parts of the same part can be printed on multiple printing platforms respectively, which can improve the part printing efficiency. The platform motion mechanism can be used to control the relative position or relative angle of multiple printing platforms to change, so that the parts on multiple printing platforms can be docked, and printing continues at the docking point, and the parts on multiple printing platforms can be merged into a complete part.

[0036] In an optional manner, the number of platform motion mechanisms may be one or more, and one platform motion mechanism may control at least one printing platform to move, so that the relative positions of at least two printing platforms change.

[0037] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism may include one or more of a linear motion component and a rotation component.

[0038] In an optional manner, the linear motion component is connected to the printing platform and is used to control the printing platform to move on a horizontal plane so that the connecting surfaces of parts printed on at least two printing platforms can be docked.

[0039] In an optional manner, the linear motion component can be a motion mechanism that controls at least one printing platform to perform three-dimensional motion in one or more axes such as the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, wherein the X-axis and the Y-axis are two perpendicular axes on a horizontal plane, and the Z-axis is an axis perpendicular to both the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0040] Exemplarily, the linear motion assembly may be provided with an X-axis slide rail, and the two printing platforms may be slidably connected to the X-axis slide rail, so that the two printing platforms can slide along the X-axis slide rail, so that the sides of the parts on the two printing platforms can be docked.

[0041] Exemplarily, the linear motion assembly may include a lead screw motor connected to one of the printing platforms, so that the printing platform can move as the lead screw motor extends and retracts, for example, toward the other printing platform so that the sides of the parts on the two printing platforms can be docked.

[0042] Exemplarily, the linear motion assembly may be provided with an X-axis slide, a Y-axis slide and a Z-axis slide, the printing platform may be slidably connected to the X-axis slide and slide on the X-axis slide, the X-axis slide may slide along the Y-axis, and the Y-axis slide may slide along the Z-axis, thereby realizing three-dimensional motion of the printing platform.

[0043] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism may also be a motion mechanism for controlling at least one printing platform to rotate in a horizontal plane. For example, the printing platform may be mounted on a rotating shaft perpendicular to the plane, so that the printing platform can rotate in a horizontal plane.

[0044] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism may also be a motion mechanism for controlling at least one printing platform to flip in a vertical plane. Exemplarily, the printing platform may be connected to a mechanism capable of flipping in a vertical plane, so that the printing platform can be flipped in a vertical plane.

[0045] It should be noted that the platform motion mechanism can be a mechanism that enables the printing platform to achieve one or more motions. In addition to three-dimensional motion, horizontal rotation and vertical flipping, the platform motion mechanism can also be a motion mechanism that enables at least one printing platform to perform other motions, as long as the relative positions of at least two printing platforms can be changed.

[0046] Taking the platform motion mechanism as a motion mechanism for controlling multiple printing platforms to flip in a vertical plane and controlling multiple printing platforms to lift as an example, the present application embodiment shows a structural schematic diagram of a 3D printing device, see Figure 1 The 3D printing device provided in the embodiment of the present application may include a housing 1, a printing module and a platform motion mechanism. The platform motion mechanism and the two printing modules are arranged inside the housing 1, the number of the printing modules may be at least two, and the printing module may include a printing platform 4 and a print head 6. A top guide rail 7 may be provided on the top of the housing 1, and the print head 6 is connected to the top guide rail 7 and can slide along the top guide rail 7. A clamping assembly 5 is provided on the printing platform 4 for fixing the parts on the printing platform 4 on the printing platform.

[0047] It should be noted that a movement space sufficient for the platform movement mechanism to move is provided inside the housing 1 , and the movement of the platform movement mechanism in the movement space will not be hindered by the components inside the housing 1 .

[0048] Figure 1In the embodiment, the platform motion mechanism may include a rotating component, which is used to control at least two printing platforms to flip in a vertical plane, and may include a connecting rod, which may include a rotating shaft 3, and the rotating shaft 3 is connected to the printing platform 4.

[0049] In an optional manner, the platform motion mechanism may include a lifting assembly, which is used to control the lifting of the printing platform 4. The lifting assembly may include a longitudinal guide rail 8 and a mounting plate. The longitudinal guide rail 8 may be arranged on the side wall of the housing 1, and the mounting plate is slidably arranged on the longitudinal guide rail 8 to provide a motion space for the printing platform 4 to perform flipping and other movements in a vertical plane. One end of the connecting rod is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform, and the other end is connected to the mounting plate, so that the printing platform 4 can be lifted and lowered along the longitudinal guide rail 8 through the connecting rod and the mounting plate.

[0050] In an optional manner, the 3D printing device may further include a lifting platform 2, which is arranged at the bottom of the housing 1, and the two printing modules are arranged above the lifting platform 2. The lifting platform 2 can be lifted and lowered in the Z-axis direction to provide a movement space that facilitates the printing platform to perform flipping and other movements in a vertical plane.

[0051] It should be noted that the printing device may include both lifting structures of the lifting platform 2 and the longitudinal guide rail 8, or may include only one of the lifting structures.

[0052] It should be noted that, for ease of description, in an optional manner, the lifting platform 2 may be a rectangular platform, the height direction of the lifting platform 2 is defined as the Z-axis direction, the length direction of the lifting platform 2 is defined as the X-axis direction, and the width direction of the lifting platform 2 is defined as the Y-axis direction. Alternatively, two perpendicular horizontal directions on the printing platform may be defined as the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and the vertical direction may be defined as the Z-axis direction.

[0053] In an optional manner, the number of lifting platforms 2 may be the same as the number of printing platforms 4 , and one lifting platform 2 is used to provide support for one printing platform 4 or to leave movement space.

[0054] In an optional manner, the printing device does not include the lifting platform 2 , and in this case, the rotating shaft 3 can provide support for the printing platform 4 .

[0055] In an optional manner, the two printing platforms 4 may be rectangular platforms, arranged above the lifting platform 2 along the X-axis direction, so that the parts printed on the two printing platforms 4 can be docked in the X-axis direction.

[0056] In an optional manner, the line connecting the center points of the two printing platforms 4 can be parallel to the X-axis, and the two rotating shafts 3 are fixed at the center of the printing platforms 4, so that after the two printing platforms 4 are flipped along the center in the vertical plane, the axes of the two printing platforms 4 can coincide.

[0057] The rotating shaft 3 in the rotating assembly is parallel to the lifting platform 2. One end of the rotating shaft 3 is rotatably arranged on the side wall of the housing 1, and the other end of the rotating shaft 3 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the printing platform 4, and the rotating connection can be a hinge. When the lifting platform 2 descends so that there is a gap between the printing platform 4 and the lifting platform 2, the printing platform 4 can be flipped along the rotating shaft 3 in the X-axis direction. The two rotating shafts 3 are on the same axis, which is parallel to the X-axis. Since the line connecting the center points of the two printing platforms 4 is also parallel to the X-axis, after the two printing platforms 4 are flipped 90 degrees, the center points of the two printing platforms 4 can be aligned on both the Y-axis and the Z-axis.

[0058] An exemplary structure of a rotating assembly can be found in Figure 2 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating component of a 3D printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, the rotating assembly may include a connecting rod and a support rod 15, wherein the connecting rod is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform 4, and the connecting rod may include a rotating shaft 3, and the rotating shaft 3 rotates along the axis of the connecting rod. The rotating shaft 3 is provided with a first groove 13 along the axial direction. The printing module also includes a first slider 14 and a support rod 15, the first slider 14 can be rotatably connected to one end of the support rod 15, and the rotating connection can be a hinge, and the other end of the support rod 15 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the printing platform 4, and the rotating connection can be a hinge. The first slider 14 can slide in the first groove 13, and the width of the first groove 13 can be greater than or equal to the width of the support rod 15, so that the support rod 15 can be received in the first groove.

[0059] It should be noted that Figure 2 for Figure 1 The structural diagram of the rotating component on the left. Figure 1 The structure of the rotating assembly on the right side of the middle is similar to Figure 2 The structure in is relatively symmetrical.

[0060] Since the support rod 15 and the rotating shaft 3 are both connected to the printing platform 4, when Figure 2 When the first slide block 14 slides to the right along the first groove 13, the angle between the support rod 15 and the rotating shaft 3 will increase, pushing the printing platform 4 to flip in the clockwise direction; Figure 2 When the first slide block 14 slides to the left along the first groove 13, the angle between the support rod 15 and the rotating shaft 3 will become smaller, pulling the printing platform 4 to flip in the counterclockwise direction.

[0061] In an optional manner, the first slider 14 may be provided with a locking device, and when the first slider 14 slides to a certain position in the first groove 13, the first slider 14 may be fixed in the first groove 13 by the locking device.

[0062] In an optional manner, the first slider 14 may not be provided with a locking device, and the sliding and fixing of the first slider 14 in the first groove 13 may be controlled by a built-in motor system.

[0063] When the first sliding block 14 is fixed at a certain position in the first groove 13 , the support rod 15 can keep the rotating shaft 3 and the printing platform 4 at a fixed angle.

[0064] The hinge point between the rotating shaft 3 and the printing platform 4 can be located at the center point of the printing platform 4, so that both printing platforms 4 can be moved from the center point of the printing platform 4 to the printing platform 4. Figure 1 After the state shown is flipped 90 degrees, the two printing platforms 4 will be parallel and perpendicular to the lifting platform 2. At this time, the center points of the two printing platforms 4 can be in the same straight line with the two rotating shafts 3. The projection of the hinge point between the support rod 15 and the printing platform 4 on the printing platform 4 is located on the rotating shaft 3. In this way, the first slider 14 is Figure 2 After the center portion slides to the left along the first groove 13 for a certain distance, it is ensured that the support rod 15 can be received into the rotating shaft 3 .

[0065] Since the support rod 15 is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform 4, when the support rod 15 is completely received in the rotating shaft 3, the printing platform 4 will be located above the rotating shaft 3 and remain parallel to the rotating shaft 3. In an optional manner, the printing module may not include the first slider 14, and the end of the support rod 15 away from the printing platform may slide directly in the first groove 13.

[0066] Since the rotating shaft 3 is arranged at the bottom of the printing platform 4, in order to ensure the stability of the printing platform 4, see Figure 3 , a second groove 18 is provided at the position of the lifting platform 2 corresponding to the rotating shaft, and the depth of the second groove 18 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the rotating shaft 3. When the lifting platform 2 rises to a certain height and the printing platform 4 is in a horizontal state, the rotating shaft 3 can be embedded in the second groove 18, so that the printing platform 4 above the rotating shaft 3 fits with the lifting platform 2, which is conducive to maintaining the stability of the printing platform 4 when the print head 6 prints on the printing platform 4, and ensuring the printing effect.

[0067] In an optional manner, the lifting platform 2 may not have the second groove 18, and the bottom surface of the printing platform 4 may have a groove for accommodating the rotating shaft 3, so that when the lifting platform 2 rises to a certain height, the printing platform 4 can also fit with the lifting platform 2.

[0068] In an optional manner, the lifting platform 2 may not have the second groove 18, and the bottom surface of the printing platform 4 may not have a groove for accommodating the rotating shaft 3. A rotating shaft 3 with a smaller diameter may be used as long as the printing platform 4 can meet the requirements of printing stability.

[0069] based on Figures 1 to 3 In the 3D printing device shown, the platform motion mechanism may also include a three-axis motion mechanism for controlling the printing platform to move in the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis. For example, the X-axis motion mechanism may include an X-axis guide rail arranged at the bottom of the housing 1 and a slider arranged at the bottom of the lifting platform 2, the X-axis guide rail is parallel to the X-axis, and the slider can be slidably connected with the X-axis guide rail, so that the lifting platform 2 can slide along the X-axis guide rail, thereby realizing the movement of the printing platform 4 on the X-axis; the Y-axis motion mechanism may include a rotating shaft 3 and a Y-axis guide rail arranged on the side of the housing 1, the Y-axis guide rail is a longitudinal guide rail 8, the Y-axis guide rail is parallel to the Y-axis, the rotating shaft 3 can slide on the Y-axis guide rail, and the printing platform 4 can move on the Y-axis; the Z-axis motion mechanism may include a Z-axis guide rail arranged on the side of the housing 1, the Z-axis guide rail is parallel to the Z-axis, and the two ends of the Y-axis guide rail are slidably arranged on the Z-axis guide rail, so that the printing platform 4 can move on the Z-axis.

[0070] based on Figures 1 to 3 In the 3D printing device shown, the platform motion mechanism may also include a motion mechanism for controlling the rotation of multiple printing platforms in a horizontal plane. For example, the lifting platform 2 may be provided with a rotation axis, which can rotate in a horizontal plane, and the printing platform 4 may be rotated on the X-axis.

[0071] The platform motion mechanism shown in the above embodiment can control at least one printing platform to move, and cooperate with multiple printing modules to realize simultaneous printing of multiple printing platforms and docking of parts. The printing module includes a printing platform and a print head. A print head 6 is arranged above the printing platform 4. The print head 6 can slide along the top guide rail 7 to print parts at different positions of the printing platform 4. There can be two top guide rails 7, both of which are parallel to the X-axis, and the print head 6 is arranged between the two top guide rails 7.

[0072] The structure of the print head is shown in Figure 4 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of a print head of a 3D printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 4 As shown, the print head 6 may include a slide bar 9 , a second slide bar 10 , a telescopic rod 11 and a nozzle 12 .

[0073] The slide bar 9 is slidably disposed on the top guide rail 7, is perpendicular to the top guide rail 7, and can slide along the top guide rail 7. The second slider 10 is slidably disposed on the slide bar 9, and can slide along the slide bar 9.

[0074] In an optional manner, the second sliding block 10 can be sleeved on the sliding rod 9 .

[0075] The second slider 10 is connected to the telescopic rod 11, which is parallel to the Z axis. The telescopic rod 11 can be extended and retracted in the Z axis direction. A nozzle 12 is provided at one end of the telescopic rod 11 close to the printing platform 4. The nozzle 12 can be moved closer to or away from the printing platform 4 by extending and retracting the telescopic rod 11.

[0076] In an optional manner, the nozzle 12 may be a 3D printing nozzle. The 3D printing nozzle is a set of switchable nozzles, including a part material nozzle and a support material nozzle, wherein the part material is used to construct the printed part, and the support material is used to construct a support device of the part, and the support device is used to keep the part in a specific shape before the part is solidified.

[0077] Since the sliding direction of the slide bar 9 on the top guide rail 7 is the X-axis direction, the sliding direction of the telescopic rod 11 on the slide bar 9 is the Y-axis direction, and the telescopic direction of the telescopic rod 11 is the Z-axis direction, the print head 6 can achieve three-dimensional movement in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions.

[0078] A clamping assembly 5 is provided on the printing platform 4, see Figure 5 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamping assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the clamping assembly may include a fixing rod 16 and a clamping rod 17, wherein the fixing rod 16 and the clamping rod may be rotatably connected, and the rotatable connection may be hinged. The fixing rod 16 may be vertically arranged at the edge of the printing platform 4, and the parts on the printing platform 4 may be clamped by the clamping rod 17, so that the parts will not fall off the printing platform 4 when the printing platform 4 is turned over. It should be noted that Figure 1-5 In the machine, all sliding, rotating and other movements can be driven by the built-in motor system. The motor system can communicate with an input device such as a computer to print parts according to the digital model file on the input device such as the computer.

[0079] Depend on Figures 1 to 5 It can be seen that the 3D printing device provided by the present invention may include two independent printing modules, each of which is provided with a printing platform and a print head. Parts of the same part can be printed simultaneously on the two printing platforms, thereby improving the printing efficiency of the parts; the printing platform is hinged to the lifting platform through the rotating shaft and the support rod respectively, so that the printing platform can be flipped along the rotating shaft. The setting of the lifting platform can leave space for the flipping of the printing platform. The setting of the clamping assembly makes it possible for the parts to be stably fixed on the printing platform when the printing platform is flipped. After the two printing platforms are flipped relative to each other, printing can continue at the relative positions of the two parts of the parts, thereby fusing the two parts of the parts into a whole. Compared with printing the complete parts directly on one platform, the present invention greatly improves the printing efficiency.

[0080] To further illustrate the printing method of the 3D printing device provided by the present invention, Figure 6 A flow chart of an embodiment of the 3D printing method of the present invention is shown. Figure 7-Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing different working states of the 3D printing device of the present invention during the printing process.

[0081] See also Figure 6 The 3D printing method provided by the present invention may include the following steps:

[0082] Step S110: controlling two print heads to print a plurality of sub-parts on at least two printing platforms, wherein the plurality of sub-parts are different parts of the same part.

[0083] Before printing, the 3D printing device can be adjusted to the initial state. Figure 1 , including: the printing platform is parallel to and in contact with the lifting platform, and the clamping structure is in an unclamped state. After the 3D printing device is adjusted to the initial state, the lifting platform can provide support for the rotating shaft and the printing platform to ensure the stability of the printing platform. At this time, the height of the upper surface of the lifting platform is the first height, and the first height is determined according to the height of the rotating shaft.

[0084] After the 3D printing device is adjusted to the initial state, the 3D printing device can be connected to an input device such as a computer for communication, and the 3D printing device can be controlled by the input device to enter a printing state to print a digital model file.

[0085] Printing status can be found in Figure 7 At this point, the status of the lifting platform, rotating shaft, printing platform and clamping assembly are the same as in the previous step. The print head can move on the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis to print parts on the printing platform.

[0086] In order to enable two print heads to print different parts of the same part at the same time, a printing boundary can be set in advance on the digital model file of the part to divide the part in the digital model file into two parts. In this way, different parts of the same part can be printed simultaneously by two print heads, thereby improving the overall printing efficiency of the part.

[0087] Step S120: When the print heads have finished printing the connecting surfaces of the sub-parts respectively, printing is stopped, and the printing platform is controlled to move by the platform movement mechanism so that the connecting surfaces of the plurality of sub-parts are in contact with each other.

[0088] Among them, the connecting surface is the printing surface corresponding to the printing boundary preset on the digital model file of the part. When the print head prints to the printing surface, it indicates that a part of the part that the print head needs to print has been printed. At this time, the 3D printing device can enter the clamping state.

[0089] See also Figure 8 After entering the clamping state, the print head stops printing and controls the clamping rod of the clamping assembly to rotate so that the clamping assembly clamps a part of the printed part.

[0090] It should be noted that, since the present invention uses two print heads to print different parts of the parts, there may be a situation where the two print heads do not print to the connection surface at the same time. For the print head that prints to the connection surface first, it can be controlled to stop printing, and the clamping assembly corresponding to the print head can be switched to a clamping state. For the print head that has not yet printed to the connection surface, it can be controlled to continue printing until the print head also prints to the connection surface, and then the print head is controlled to stop printing, and the clamping assembly corresponding to the print head is switched to a clamping state. In an optional manner, if a clamping assembly enters a clamping state, the print head corresponding to the clamping assembly is controlled to be retracted to the shortest, so as to prevent the print head from touching the parts on the printing platform when the printing platform where the clamping assembly is located is flipped, causing damage to the parts.

[0091] After the clamping assembly clamps a part of the printed part, the lifting height of the lifting platform can be lowered to a second height so that the printing platform and the lifting platform are not in contact. The printing platform is flipped by controlling the support rod to keep the printing platform and the lifting platform vertical and the connecting surfaces of the parts of the two printing platforms correspond to each other.

[0092] The second height is the height obtained by subtracting half of the length of the printing platform in the X-axis direction from the first height. After clamping a portion of the parts on both printing platforms, the 3D printing device can be adjusted to a joint state. Fig. 9 After entering the engagement state, the lifting platform is lowered to the second height, and the printing platform is flipped 90 degrees by the support rod so that the connection surfaces of the parts on the two printing platforms are opposite.

[0093] Step S130: Control the print head to continue printing on the connecting surface until the plurality of sub-parts are merged into one part.

[0094] Among them, one of the print heads is controlled to print between the two connection surfaces, and the two rotating shafts are controlled to rotate in the same direction during the printing process, and the other print head is reset and does not print. After the print head is reset, the telescopic rod is retracted to the shortest in the Z-axis direction, and the second slider slides to the starting position of the guide rail and the slider, which can be Fig. 9 A top corner of the middle shell.

[0095] In an optional manner, if one clamping component enters a clamping state and the other clamping component does not enter the clamping state, the printing platform where the clamping component that has entered the clamping state is located can be flipped 90 degrees. For the clamping component that has not entered the clamping state, wait for it to enter the clamping state, then flip the printing platform where it is located 90 degrees, control the two shafts to start rotating, control one of the print heads to start printing at the connecting surface, and control the other print head to reset without printing.

[0096] In an optional manner, if one clamping component enters the clamping state and the other clamping component does not enter the clamping state, for the clamping component that has entered the clamping state, the printing platform on which it is located may not be flipped 90 degrees until the other clamping component also enters the clamping state, and then the 3D printing equipment is adjusted to the engaged state.

[0097] When the connecting surfaces of the two parts are completely fused, the print head that is printing is controlled to stop printing, and the printing platform is flipped by the support rod to make the printing platform parallel to the lifting platform, and the lifting height of the lifting platform is increased to a first height so that the printing platform contacts the lifting platform, and the clamping assembly is switched to an unclamped state.

[0098] When the connecting surfaces of the parts on the two printing platforms are printed and fused, the 3D printer can be adjusted to enter the end state.

[0099] See also Fig.10 After entering the end state, the print head that is printing stops printing and then resets. One of the clamping components stops clamping the part, and the two printing platforms flip outward 90 degrees relative to each other, so that the two printing platforms return to Figure 1 In the initial state, the lifting platform rises to a first height to provide support for the printing platform and the rotating shaft. After the printing platform rises to the first height, another clamping structure can end the clamping of the part so that the part can be removed from the printing platform.

[0100] The 3D printing method provided by the present invention uses two print heads to print part of the same part on two printing platforms at the same time, thereby improving the printing efficiency of the parts; the printing platforms are flipped by a support rod so that the two printing platforms can be flipped to face each other, the printing platforms are controlled to rotate by a rotating shaft, and the print heads are controlled to print at the connecting surfaces of the parts of the two printing platforms, so that the two parts of the same part on the two printing platforms are merged into a whole. Compared with printing the complete part directly on one platform, the present invention greatly improves the printing efficiency.

[0101] An embodiment of the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the storage medium stores at least one executable instruction. When the executable instruction is executed on a computer, a 3D printing device can execute the 3D printing method in any of the above method embodiments.

[0102] The executable instructions may be specifically used to enable the 3D printing device to perform the following operations:

[0103] Controlling two print heads to print a plurality of sub-parts on at least two printing platforms, wherein the plurality of sub-parts are different parts of the same part;

[0104] When the print heads have finished printing the sub-parts respectively, the printing is stopped, and the printing platform is controlled to move by the platform movement mechanism so that the connection surfaces of the plurality of sub-parts are in contact with each other;

[0105] The print head is controlled to continue printing on the connecting surface until the plurality of sub-parts are merged into one part.

[0106] The algorithms or displays provided herein are not inherently related to any particular computer, input device, virtual system or other device. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention are not directed to any particular programming language.

[0107] In the description provided herein, a large number of specific details are described. However, it is understood that embodiments of the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. Similarly, in order to simplify the present invention and help understand one or more of the various inventive aspects, in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the various features of the embodiments of the present invention are sometimes grouped together into a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. Wherein, the claims that follow the specific embodiment are hereby expressly incorporated into the specific embodiment, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the modules in the devices in the embodiments may be adaptively changed and arranged in one or more devices different from the embodiments. The modules or units or components in the embodiments may be combined into one module or unit or component, and further may be divided into a plurality of submodules or subunits or subcomponents. Except that at least some of such features and / or processes or units are mutually exclusive.

[0109] It should be noted that the above embodiments illustrate the present invention rather than limit it, and that those skilled in the art may design alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference symbol between brackets shall not be construed as a limitation on the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "one" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of multiple such elements. The present invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of input devices such as appropriately programmed computers. In a unit claim that lists several devices, several of these devices may be embodied by the same hardware item. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc. does not indicate any order. These words may be interpreted as names. The steps in the above embodiments, unless otherwise specified, should not be understood as limitations on the order of execution.

Claims

1. A 3D printing device, characterized in that: It includes at least two printing modules and at least one platform motion mechanism, wherein the platform motion mechanism includes a rotating assembly, wherein: The printing module comprises a printing head and a printing platform, wherein the printing head is arranged above the printing platform; The platform motion mechanism includes a linear motion component, at least one of the printing platforms is connected to the linear motion component of the platform motion mechanism, and the platform motion mechanism is used to control the relative movement of the printing platforms on a horizontal plane so that the parts printed on at least two printing platforms can be docked; Among them, the rotating assembly includes a connecting rod and a support rod, one end of the connecting rod is connected to the mounting plate, and the other end is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform, one end of the support rod is slidably connected to the connecting rod, and the other end of the support rod is hinged to the bottom of the printing platform, which is used to control the rotation of the printing platform in a vertical plane so that the connecting surfaces of at least two parts printed on the printing platform can be docked.

2. The 3D printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting rod comprises a rotating shaft, and the rotating shaft rotates along the axis of the connecting rod.

3. The 3D printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a shell, the printing module is arranged inside the shell, a longitudinal guide rail is arranged on the side of the shell, the mounting plate is slidably connected to the longitudinal guide rail, and the mounting plate slides on the longitudinal guide rail to provide a movement space that facilitates the movement of the printing platform.

4. The 3D printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a lifting platform, which is arranged below the printing platform and moves in a vertical direction to provide a movement space that is convenient for the movement of the printing platform.

5. The 3D printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The printing platform is also provided with a clamping assembly, and the clamping assembly is used to fix the parts printed on the printing platform on the printing platform.

6. The 3D printing device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The clamping assembly comprises a fixing rod and a clamping rod, one end of the fixing rod is vertically arranged at the edge of the printing platform, and the other end of the fixing rod is hinged to the clamping rod.

7. The 3D printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a top guide rail, in which the top of the print head is slidably arranged.

8. A 3D printing method, characterized in that: The 3D printing method is applied to the 3D printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: Controlling two print heads to print a plurality of sub-parts on at least two printing platforms, wherein the plurality of sub-parts are different parts of the same part; When the print heads have finished printing the sub-parts respectively, the printing is stopped, and the printing platform is controlled to move by the platform movement mechanism so that the connection surfaces of the plurality of sub-parts are in contact with each other; The print head is controlled to continue printing on the connecting surface until the plurality of sub-parts are merged into one part.

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