Lighting device with textured perforations

Abstract

The invention provides a method for producing a 3D item (1) by fused deposition modeling, the method comprising a 3D printing phase comprising depositing a 3D printable material (201) layer by layer to provide a 3D item (1) comprising 3D printed material (202), wherein the 3D item (1) comprises a plurality of layers (322) of 3D printed material (202), wherein the plurality of layers (322) comprises a stack (1300), wherein the stack (1300) comprises a first layer (1322) and a second layer (2322), wherein the method comprises: - 3D printing the first layer (1322) and subsequently 3D printing the second layer (2322), while providing a plurality of modulations (340) in the z-direction in at least one of the first and second layers (1322, 2322), thereby defining a plurality of openings (354) between the first and second layers (1322, 2322).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing 3D (printed) articles. The invention also relates to 3D (printed) articles obtainable by this method. Furthermore, the invention relates to a lighting device comprising such 3D (printed) articles. Background Technology

[0002] Patterned 3D printed articles are known in the art. For example, US2016 / 0257033 describes a three-dimensional part printed using additive manufacturing techniques. The three-dimensional part includes an outer wall having an outer surface defining the shape of the part and an inner surface defining an inner cavity. The part includes a plurality of first portions having multiple printed layers, each printed layer of the first portion having a plurality of wall segments forming triangular units, wherein each of the plurality of first portions is attached to the inner surface of the outer wall. The part includes a plurality of second portions having multiple printed layers, each printed layer of the second portion having a plurality of wall segments forming hexagonal units of hexagons and triangles, wherein each of the plurality of second printed portions is attached to the inner surface of the outer wall, and wherein the first and second portions are alternating patterns, wherein when adjacent printed layers of the first and second portions are printed, the wall segments defining triangular units bisect the hexagonal units. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Over the next 10 to 20 years, digital manufacturing will increasingly transform the nature of global manufacturing. One aspect of digital manufacturing is 3D printing. Currently, many different technologies have been developed to produce a wide variety of 3D-printed objects using diverse materials such as ceramics, metals, and polymers. 3D printing can also be used to create molds, which can then be used to replicate objects.

[0004] For mold making purposes, a multi-jet technique has been proposed. This technique utilizes the layer-by-layer deposition of a photopolymer material, which is cured after each deposition to form a solid structure. While this technique can produce smooth surfaces, photopolymer materials are not very stable, and they also have relatively low thermal conductivity for injection molding applications.

[0005] The most widely used additive manufacturing technology is a process known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing technology commonly used for molding, prototyping, and production applications. FDM works on the principle of "additives" by laying down materials in layers; plastic filaments or metal wires are unwound from coils and the material is supplied to produce parts. Possibly (in the case of thermoplastics), the filament is melted and extruded before being laid down. FDM is a rapid prototyping technology. Other terms for FDM are "Fused Filament Manufacturing" (FFF) or "Filament 3D Printing" (FDP), which are considered equivalent to FDM. Generally, FDM printers use thermoplastic filaments, which are heated to their melting point and then extruded layer by layer (or actually one filament after another) to create three-dimensional objects. FDM printers are relatively fast, inexpensive, and can be used to print complex 3D objects. This type of printer is used to print a wide variety of shapes using various polymers. The technology is also being further developed in the production of LED lighting fixtures and lighting solutions.

[0006] It appears desirable to provide alternative 3D articles that may be more robust, or may have a decorative surface, or may be able to transmit visible light. It may be desirable to provide 3D articles that transmit visible light with controllable transmittance. It may also be desirable to provide a 3D article that transmits visible light but reduces glare. Therefore, one aspect of the invention is to provide an alternative 3D printing method and / or 3D (printed) article that preferably further eliminates at least partially one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. The object of the invention may be to overcome or improve at least one disadvantage of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0007] In this embodiment, fused deposition modeling is suggested, in which the printhead or print stage moves vertically during layer deposition. Furthermore, the head can move in the xy-plane. For example, (vertical) movement enables sine curve functionality. In this way, straight sinusoidal wavy lines can be printed. Depending on the amplitude, it can also lead to the formation of holes. Additionally, when using transparent filaments, desirable optical effects can be achieved.

[0008] Therefore, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing 3D articles by fused deposition modeling, the method comprising a 3D printing stage comprising depositing 3D printable material layer by layer to provide a 3D article comprising the 3D printing material. Specifically, the 3D article comprises multiple layers of 3D printing material. In embodiments, the multiple layers comprise a stack, wherein the stack comprises a first layer and a second layer. Therefore, the term "layer" herein may specifically refer to at least a first layer and a second layer. These layers are specifically configured to be adjacent to each other. More specifically, these layers may be configured on top of each other (during 3D printing). Specifically, the method comprises 3D printing a first layer and subsequently printing a second layer, while providing multiple modulations in the z-direction in at least one of the first and second layers. By doing so, multiple openings can be defined between the first and second layers (in a plane including the z-axis). Therefore, openings are intentionally created in the stack or in the plane of the stack. Therefore, in embodiments, the present invention specifically provides a method for producing 3D articles by fused deposition modeling, the method comprising a 3D printing stage comprising depositing 3D printable material layer by layer to provide a 3D article comprising the 3D printing material, wherein the 3D printed article comprises a plurality of layers of 3D printing material, wherein the plurality of layers comprise a stack, wherein the stack comprises a first layer and a second layer (which are specifically configured to be adjacent to each other), wherein the method comprises: 3D printing the first layer and subsequently printing the second layer, while providing a plurality of modulations in the z-direction in at least one of the first and second layers, thereby defining a plurality of openings between the first and second layers (in a plane including the z-axis).

[0009] In this way, among other things, 3D-printed articles with a woven appearance (such as a fabric / knitwear appearance) can also be provided. The layered structure may be relatively stable, but may still be translucent. The shape and / or appearance of the structure can be controlled by controlling the length, width, number, and pattern of the deviations. Therefore, in this way, (decorative) lighting devices with a woven appearance on the surface can be provided. Furthermore, using this solution, the internal accumulation of stress can be reduced. Therefore, the overall stress in the printed object can be lowered. In addition, using this invention, the weight of the product can be reduced. Furthermore, using this invention, printing speed can be increased because greater heights can be achieved using approximately the same (or less) 3D printable material. For example, lighting devices with textured perforations can be created in this way.

[0010] As indicated above, the present invention provides a method for producing 3D articles by fused deposition modeling. Specifically, the method includes a 3D printing stage comprising depositing 3D printable material layer by layer to provide a 3D article comprising the 3D printing material. This 3D printing material can be provided on a receiver article. Providing the 3D printing material on the receiver article further includes providing the 3D printing material on already 3D printed material on the receiver article.

[0011] The 3D article thus provided comprises multiple layers of 3D printing material. The multiple layers comprise a stack of layers. Therefore, two or more of the multiple layers, or at least a portion of each of two or more of the multiple layers, can define the stack of layers. Such a stack of layers includes (at least) a first layer and a second layer, which are configured to be adjacent to each other. Here, adjacent layers specifically refer to stacked layers, where one layer has been deposited on top of another. In this way, multiple layers configured in a stacked manner can be generated by layer-by-layer deposition, and each layer has one or two adjacent layers.

[0012] The upper layer is adjacent to the lower layer; similarly, the lower layer is adjacent to the upper layer (assuming the vertical orientation of the 3D object).

[0013] Generally, a stack will consist of multiple n layers, where n is greater than 2, specifically n ≥ 5, such as at least 10 layers (see below again). Two or more of these layers included in the stack can be designated as the first layer and the second layer.

[0014] Note that the term "first layer" can also refer to multiple substantially identical first layers. However, the term "first layer" can also refer to multiple different first layers. These layers may differ in the number of modulations, the shape and / or type of modulation, the modulation spacing, the layer height, etc. Similarly, the term "second layer" can also refer to multiple substantially identical second layers. However, the term "second layer" can also refer to multiple different second layers. These layers may differ in the number of modulations, the shape and / or type of modulation, the modulation spacing, the layer height, etc.

[0015] Therefore, in an embodiment, the method may include 3D printing multiple first layers and multiple second layers, while providing multiple modulations in the z-direction within the multiple first layers and / or second layers. These layers are thus stacked. Therefore, the stack may include multiple first layers and multiple second layers.

[0016] Here, the invention is specifically explained with respect to a set of first layers and second layers. In the embodiments, this may therefore refer to a plurality of first layers and a plurality of second layers.

[0017] As indicated above, the method involves 3D printing a first layer and subsequently printing a second layer, while providing multiple modulations in the z-direction in at least one of the first and second layers. Thus, by moving the receiver item and / or the printer nozzle in the z-direction, rather than fully contacting the 3D-printed layer (including the already printed layer) being printed on the receiver item, a portion of the new layer does not actually make physical contact (with the underlying (adjacent) layer). Therefore, by moving up and down, the contact between the first and second layers is temporarily released and restored. In this way, one or more openings, particularly multiple openings, can be defined between the first and second layers (in a plane including the z-axis).

[0018] Therefore, in embodiments, the method may include moving the printhead relative to the print table (in the z-direction), or moving the print table relative to the printhead (in the z-direction), or both moving in the z-direction to change the distance between them. Thus, modulation in the z-direction can be achieved by vertically moving one or more of the receiver article and the printer nozzle during layer deposition. In this way, an opening between two stacked layers can be obtained. Modulation in the z-direction can therefore result in a change in the interlayer distance. The interlayer distance is substantially zero at the location where the first and second layers contact, and non-zero at the location where an opening exists between the first and second layers.

[0019] Assuming multiple layers are on top of each other (with one or more layer openings between two or more adjacent layers), each layer can define a stacking axis associated with that layer. Together, these stacking axes can form a (curved) plane, which can be the cross-sectional plane of the stack of layers. Therefore, one or more of the stacking axes can be one-dimensionally curved. Similarly, the cross-sectional plane of the stack of layers can be one-dimensional or two-dimensionally curved. Of course, the stacking axes can also be straight, without curvature, which can result in a substantially flat cross-sectional plane of the stack of layers.

[0020] The cross-section of the stacked layers can also be considered as a plane defined by the printing path. Openings are created by deviations or modulations of this printing path. Thus, even if modulation of the printing path / stack axis is available (in the z-direction), a cylindrical 3D-printed article, for example, has a cylindrical cross-sectional plane of stacked layers. In this example of a cylinder, the length axis of the cylinder can be taken as the z-direction because the cylinder can be printed (circularly) layer by layer to provide such a cylinder. Therefore, the z-direction is specifically the direction in which layers are 3D printed over each other. Therefore, specifically, the method involves 3D printing a first layer along the (corresponding) printing path and subsequently printing a second layer, while providing one or more deviations from the (corresponding) printing path in a plane including the z-axis of at least one of the first and second layers. The term "deviation" can also be applied instead of "modulation." Therefore, modulation of the printing path(s) ... Therefore, the method specifically includes 3D printing a first layer along a printing path and then printing a second layer, while providing one or more printing path modulations in a plane of the z-axis relative to the printing path in at least one of the included first and second layers, thereby defining one or more openings between the first and second layers.

[0021] As indicated above, the present invention provides a method for producing 3D articles (“3D printed articles”, “articles”) by fused deposition modeling. The method will be further explained below with reference to some embodiments.

[0022] The modulation can be relatively small, such as less than the layer width. However, the modulation can also be greater than the layer width. The amplitude can also be less than the layer height. However, the amplitude can also be greater than the layer height. Specifically, the amplitude will not be greater than approximately 10 times the layer width, such as 5 times. In (other) embodiments, specifically, the amplitude will also not be greater than approximately 10 times the layer height, such as 5 times. In this way, a stable stack of 3D printed layers with openings between layers can be obtained.

[0023] Furthermore, the half-height width of such a modulation can be at least approximately 0.5 times the width, such as at least the width. In (other) embodiments, the half-height width of such a modulation can be at least approximately 0.5 times the height, such as at least the height. Furthermore, specifically, the width at half-height will not be greater than approximately 10 times the layer width. In (other) embodiments, the width at half-height will not be greater than approximately 10 times the layer height.

[0024] Here, the term "height" is basically only related to the thickness of the 3D printing material. Since the modulation makes the two layers adjacent to the layer farther than the layer thickness or layer height, the terms apparent thickness or effective thickness, or apparent height or effective height can also be used herein. The effective layer height can be defined by the ends of the layer in a plane containing the z-direction and perpendicular to the extension axis or the printing path. Specifically, the apparent height or effective layer height, also indicated as H* herein, can be approximately H+A when the amplitude is on one side, and approximately H+2A when the amplitude is on both sides. These simple equations assume that the amplitudes of the corresponding layers are substantially all the same.

[0025] Thus, in a particular embodiment, the layer has a layer width (W), where a plurality of modulations have an amplitude value (A) (relative to the printing path), where 0.5*W < A ≤ 10*W. More specifically, 1*W < A ≤ 5*W. Further, in an embodiment, specifically, the plurality of modulations have a modulation width (W1) at half of the amplitude value (A), where 0.1*W ≤ W1 ≤ 10*W. More specifically, 0.5*W ≤ W1 ≤ 5*W. In an embodiment, W ≤ W1 ≤ 10*W, or even approximately 1.2*W ≤ W1 ≤ 10*W, such as 1.2*W ≤ W1 ≤ 5*W.

[0026] Thus, in a particular (other) embodiment, the layer has a layer height (H), where a plurality of modulations have an amplitude value (A) (relative to the printing path), where 0.5*H < A ≤ 10*H. More specifically, 1*H < A ≤ 5*H. Further, specifically, in (other) embodiments, the plurality of modulations have a modulation width (W1) at half of the amplitude value (A), where 0.1*H ≤ W1 ≤ 10*H. More specifically, 0.5*H ≤ W1 ≤ 5*H. In an embodiment, H ≤ W1 ≤ 10*H, or even approximately 1.2*H ≤ W1 ≤ 10*H, such as 1.2*H ≤ W1 ≤ 5*H.

[0027] Thus, phrases such as "the layer has a layer width (W)" or "the layer has a layer height (H)" and similar phrases can particularly refer to the first layer and the second layer (or multiple first layers and multiple second layers). Such phrases can thus particularly refer to the layers included in the stack of layers. Similarly, phrases such as "print two or more layers, each layer having a regular pattern including a plurality of modulations" and similar phrases can particularly refer to the first layer and / or the second layer. Further, similarly, phrases such as "where the article wall includes a plurality of layers" and similar phrases can particularly refer to the first layer and the second layer, or more specifically to multiple first layers and multiple second layers.

[0028] As indicated below, specifically in the embodiments, the width (thickness) and height of the (separate 3D printed) layer can be selected from, for example, a range of 100-5000 μm, such as 200-2500 μm, and generally the height is less than the width.

[0029] Note that not all layers have the same layer width. Nor do all layers need to have the same layer height. Here, when referring to the first and second layers, these layers can generally have substantially the same layer height and substantially the same layer width. However, if these differ, or in particular the layer widths differ, then the embodiments regarding amplitude and modulation width defined herein are related to the width of the respective layer. It is also not excluded that the layer width and / or layer height may differ over the length of the respective layer. Here, when referring to the first and second layers, these layers can generally have substantially constant layer width and / or substantially constant layer height (over the corresponding layer length). If this is not the case, an average value from the corresponding deviation can be chosen.

[0030] Note that in this article, "first" is used only to indicate a layer, but "first" does not mean that this layer was the first to be 3D printed. In addition, there can be multiple (different) first layers and multiple (different) second layers (see below as well).

[0031] In an embodiment, one or more layers may include multiple modulations. These may be arranged on one side, or they may be arranged on both sides.

[0032] Furthermore, the modulation can be configured in an arrangement. Moreover, (therefore), the opening can be configured in an arrangement. This arrangement can be a conventional arrangement. Alternatively, the arrangement can be an irregular arrangement, such as one obtained via a random or pseudo-random process. The arrangement can also be a combination of irregular and regular arrangements. Compared to a random arrangement, a regular arrangement can provide better control over light transmission, although this may be negligible over a wider range.

[0033] Therefore, in an embodiment, the method may further include using a plurality of modulations to 3D print at least one of a first layer and a second layer, wherein (i) two or more of the print path modulations are configured to be symmetrical with respect to (corresponding) print paths, and / or (ii) two or more print path modulations are configured to be asymmetrical with respect to (corresponding) print paths.

[0034] The modulated shape can be curved or angular, such as a triangle or block shape. Other shapes are also possible. Furthermore, when multiple moduli are available, these moduli can be provided in different ways. For example, in an embodiment, the method may include 3D printing at least one of the first and second layers using one or more of the following moduli: blocky, zigzag, and sawtooth patterns. Of course, combinations of two or more of these can also be applied. For example, in an embodiment, this may provide a trapezoidal shape.

[0035] When multiple moduli are available in a layer, these moduli can be configured to be arranged in a regular pattern, such as having predefined spacing. Therefore, in embodiments, these layers may have a layer width (W) (still see above), and the method may include 3D printing at least one of a first layer and a second layer with multiple (print path) moduli having a spacing P, where 2*W ≤ P ≤ 20*W, such as 2.5*W ≤ P ≤ 15*W, as in the embodiments 2.5*W ≤ P1 ≤ 10*W. Thus, generally, in embodiments, layers have a layer width (W), where the method includes 3D printing at least one of layers with multiple moduli having a spacing (P), where 2*W ≤ P ≤ 20*W.

[0036] Note that when there are more than two layers in the stack, the first and second layers can be selected as shown in the example. Multiple sets of such first and second layers can exist; these sets can be identical or the same. Layers with modulation can be configured for regular or irregular arrangements, or a combination of both.

[0037] A modulated layer may be adjacent to one or two non-modulated layers (e.g., the former sandwiched between the latter two). In yet another embodiment, a modulated layer may be adjacent to one modulated layer and to another non-modulated layer. In yet another embodiment, a modulated layer may be adjacent to two other modulated layers (e.g., the former sandwiched between the latter two).

[0038] In embodiments, the stack (see still below) may include a plurality of first groups, each group including a modulated layer adjacent to one or two unmodulated layers. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, the stack may include a plurality of second groups, each second group including a modulated layer adjacent to an unmodulated layer and also adjacent to a modulated layer. Further alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, the stack may include a plurality of third groups, each third group including a modulated layer adjacent to two modulated layers.

[0039] In embodiments, the method may include 3D printing two or more layers, each layer having multiple print path modulations, wherein the print path modulations of at least two of the two or more layers are offset relative to each other. This offset may specifically be determined along one of the print paths. Modulations in the two or more layers can be positioned (specifically, when the spacing is substantially the same and the modulations are substantially the same in magnitude and width (and direction)). Thus, in a particular embodiment, the method may include 3D printing two or more layers, each layer having a regular pattern comprising multiple modulations, wherein these patterns are identical but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis (SA) of one of the two or more layers.

[0040] Therefore, in an embodiment, the offset can be x*P, where P is the spacing of one of the layers, and the offset is related to the arrangement of the deviation in another layer, which may be located at the offset position (with offset P relative to the reference layer), the offset value being x*P, where x is not an integer value (specifically, greater than 0 and less than 1). Specifically, in such an embodiment, the spacing of the deviation of the first layer and the spacing of the deviation of the second layer are substantially the same, and the deviations of the first layer and the second layer can be substantially the same in magnitude and width. In a particular embodiment, the patterns are translated relative to each other by an offset S, where S = x*P, where 0.4 ≤ x ≤ 0.6, such as approximately 0.5.

[0041] The modulations can be arranged across multiple layers. It may be necessary, or even essential in some embodiments, that all modulations are not on top of each other. If all modulations were on top of each other along the entire stack, there might be no openings (assuming the shapes and orientations are the same). Therefore, modulations can be specifically configured such that they create openings. This can be achieved by offsetting the modulations by one layer relative to adjacent layers. Alternatively or additionally, this can be done by alternating layers with and without modulations. Thus, in embodiments, the method may include 3D printing two or more layers, each with multiple (print path) modulations, wherein these layers have a layer height (H), wherein for a set of two layers each having multiple (print path) modulations of the nearest adjacent layer, one or more of the following apply: (i) the modulations of the two layers have the same spacing P, but the (print path) modulations of each layer are offset relative to each other, and (ii) the nearest adjacent (print path) modulations in different layers of a set of two layers have a mutual distance (d1) of at least layer height (H) in the embodiments.

[0042] The present invention also allows for continuous printing. Therefore, in embodiments, the method may include continuously 3D printing at least one of a first layer and a second layer using one or more print path modulations. More specifically, in embodiments, the method includes continuously 3D printing multiple layers using one or more print path modulations. Therefore, in embodiments, a stacking method including continuous 3D printing can be used to achieve this.

[0043] For example, in this way, the stacked layers described herein may include at least 10 layers, such as at least 13 layers, such as at least 15 layers. One or more of these, particularly at least about half of these layers, such as at least 5 layers, such as at least 6 layers, such as at least 7 layers, may include the deviations described herein.

[0044] In an embodiment, the stack may define a wall (“wall element”).

[0045] In the invention described herein, a wall element can be provided that allows light to be transmitted from one side of the wall element to the other side. This can be used, for example, for lamp housings or lampshades (see below). Thus, in embodiments, a 3D article includes an article wall, wherein the article wall comprises a plurality of layers of 3D printed material, wherein the method may include providing a plurality of layers having a plurality of (printing paths) modulated in a (regular) arrangement to provide a (regular) opening arrangement between the two sides of the article wall.

[0046] An opening can provide a passage from one side to the other. Therefore, in this embodiment, an opening in the wall element can provide a passage. The term "wall" can be used instead of the term "wall element." Therefore, the term "article wall" can refer to the wall (element) of a 3D printed article.

[0047] Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the 3D article may include an article wall comprising multiple layers of 3D printing material. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the method may include providing multiple layers (including one or more first layers and one or more second layers) having multiple openings between the two sides of the article wall. In a particular embodiment, the method may include a regular arrangement of 3D printing multiple moduli to provide openings between the two sides of the article wall.

[0048] For example, in an embodiment, the stack may include a plurality of n-fold stacked layers, where n ≥ 10, wherein the stack includes at least five groups (5322), each group including at least two layers (between the stacked layers in the group) having k ≥ 2 openings, wherein the openings in the stack are arranged in a regular pattern. Thus, each group may include a first layer and a second layer.

[0049] As will be clear from the above, phrases such as “at least two layers with k ≥ 2 openings” and similar phrases can in particular refer to a set of layers that includes at least a first layer and a second layer (as defined herein), or a set that includes one or more first layers and one or more second layers, or a set that includes multiple first layers and multiple second layers.

[0050] Furthermore, in certain embodiments, these layers have a layer width (W), wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening (among multiple openings) has an equivalent circular diameter D, wherein the shortest distance (d2) between the nearest adjacent openings is selected from the range W ≤ d2 ≤ 20 * D, such as 1.5 * W ≤ d2 ≤ 10 * D. The equivalent circular diameter (or ECD) of the (irregularly shaped) two-dimensional shape is the diameter of the equivalent area circle. For example, the equivalent circular diameter of a square with side length a is 2 * a * SQRT(1 / π). The openings may not be perfectly symmetrical. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening can be defined as the cross-sectional area of ​​the widest irregularly (or regularly) shaped infinitely long element that can penetrate the opening.

[0051] For example, every 10cm 2 There can be at least one opening, such as every 4cm. 2 There is at least one opening. In an embodiment, there may be no more than 10 openings per square centimeter, such as no more than 5 openings, specifically no more than about 2 openings per square centimeter, such as about 1 opening per square centimeter in an embodiment.

[0052] Specifically, in one embodiment, the 3D article can be used for optical applications, where it may be desirable for at least a portion of the 3D article to be transmissive to visible light, whether natural or artificial. In an alternative embodiment, it may be desirable for at least a portion of the 3D article to be reflective to visible light, whether natural or artificial.

[0053] Reflection and / or transmission can be controlled, for example, by controlling the size of the openings, the number of openings, and the number of openings per area (i.e., the density of the openings). Furthermore, reflection and / or transmission can be controlled by selecting the 3D printable material, and thus the 3D printing material. For example, the 3D printing material may absorb light, or reflect or transmit light. The 3D printing material may be a material comprising reflective particles or dyes or pigments. The 3D printing material may be substantially transparent to visible light. The 3D printing material may also include core-shell 3D printing materials, comprising: a core material and a shell material, wherein the core material is one or more of the following: (i) absorbing light (ii) reflecting visible light, and wherein the shell material is transmissive to visible light.

[0054] The materials of the core and shell, as well as the width of the layers, the thickness of the core and shell, the type of light absorption intensity, reflectivity, etc., can be selected so that the layers are transmissive to visible light. This transmissivity can be adjusted. For example, the thicker the layer (W), the greater the absorption and / or reflection may be. Specifically, the thicker the core, the greater the absorption and / or reflection may be. Furthermore, absorption can be achieved using dyes and / or pigments. The higher the concentration of the dyes and / or pigments, the greater the absorption may be. Reflection can be achieved using white pigments and reflective particles (which are generally not transmissive). The higher the concentration of the white pigments and reflective particles, and / or the larger the reflective particles, the greater the reflection may be. Therefore, transmission (and / or reflection) can be adjusted, and thus the transmission (and / or reflection) of 3D objects or their walls can also be adjusted. In this way, 3D objects that transmit visible light, such as object walls, can be provided.

[0055] Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the 3D printing material can transmit at least a portion of visible light (having a wavelength selected from the 380-780 nm range). Thus, the 3D printable material can transmit at least a portion of visible light.

[0056] As indicated in this article, 3D printing materials can be, for example, a single material or a core-shell material. Furthermore, the type of material can vary depending on the 3D object (wall).

[0057] Therefore, transmission (and / or reflection) can be controlled by choices related to physical properties such as the size of the opening, the number of openings, and the number of openings per area (i.e., the density of openings), but alternatively or additionally, it can also be controlled by the choice of 3D printing materials (and 3D printable materials).

[0058] Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the 3D article includes an article wall, wherein the article wall comprises a plurality of n layers of 3D printing material, wherein n is at least 2, such as especially n≥5, wherein the article wall has a transmittance for visible light, specifically selected in the range of 5-90%, such as 10-80%, such as especially 10-50%, in a particular embodiment.

[0059] Note that optical properties may also vary from item to item, for example, depending on the item's wall.

[0060] The phrase "at least a portion of visible light" (which is essentially in the range of 380-780 nm) can refer to one or more of the following: (i) one or more wavelengths are transmitted and (ii) at wavelengths less than 100% but greater than 0%, such as at least 50% of the light can be transmitted. Transmission can be measured, in particular, under vertical irradiation. Here, transmission is especially due to an opening. Alternatively, partial transmission may also be due to the use of a light-transmitting 3D-printable material (and therefore a 3D-printing material). Transmission, or transmittance, can be determined by supplying light of a specific wavelength with a first intensity to the material and relating the intensity of the light at that wavelength, measured after transmission through the material, to the first intensity of the light supplied to the material at that specific wavelength (see also the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, E-208 and E-406, 69th edition, 1088-1989).

[0061] As indicated above, the method involves depositing 3D printable material during the printing stage. In this document, "3D printable material" refers to the material to be deposited or printed, while "3D printing material" refers to the material obtained after deposition. These materials may be substantially the same, as "3D printable material" may specifically refer to the material in the print head or extruder at high temperatures, while "3D printing material" refers to the same material but in a later stage of deposition. The 3D printable material is printed as a filament and deposited as is. 3D printable material can be provided as a filament or can be formed into a filament. Therefore, regardless of the starting material applied, filaments including 3D printable material are provided by the print head and 3D printing is performed. The term "extrudate" can be used to define 3D printable material downstream of the print head but not yet deposited. The latter is indicated as "3D printing material." In fact, extrudate includes 3D printable material because it has not yet been deposited. After the 3D printable material or extrudate is deposited, the material is therefore indicated as 3D printing material. Essentially, these materials are the same material because the thermoplastic material upstream of the printhead, downstream of the printhead, and during deposition is essentially the same material.

[0062] In this document, the term "3D printable material" may also be referred to as "printable material". The term "polymer material" in the embodiments may refer to a mixture of different polymers, but may also refer to a single polymer type that substantially has different polymer chain lengths. Therefore, the terms "polymer material" or "polymer" may refer to a single type of polymer, but may also refer to multiple different polymers. The term "printable material" may refer to a single type of printable material, but may also refer to multiple different printable materials. The term "printing material" may refer to a single type of printing material, but may also refer to multiple different printing materials.

[0063] Therefore, the term "3D printable materials" can also refer to a combination of two or more materials. Generally, these (polymer) materials have a glass transition temperature T0. g and / or melting temperature T m The 3D printable material is heated by the 3D printer to at least its glass transition temperature, and generally at least its melting temperature, before it leaves the nozzle. Therefore, in one particular embodiment, the 3D printable material includes materials having a glass transition temperature (T0). g ) and / or melting point (T m The 3D printable material is a thermoplastic polymer, and the printer head action includes heating the 3D printable material to above its glass transition temperature, and if it is a semi-crystalline polymer above its melting temperature. In yet another embodiment, the 3D printable material comprises a material having a melting point (T0). m The glass transition temperature is a (thermoplastic) polymer, and the printer head action involves heating the 3D printable material to be deposited onto the receiver article to at least its melting point. The glass transition temperature is generally different from the melting temperature. Melting is a transition that occurs in crystalline polymers. Melting occurs when the polymer chains break away from their crystalline structure and become a disordered liquid. The glass transition is a transition that occurs in amorphous polymers; that is, the polymer chains are not arranged in an ordered crystalline pattern, but are dispersed in any way around, even if they are in a solid state. Polymers can be amorphous, essentially having a glass transition temperature rather than a melting temperature, or they can be (semi-)crystalline, generally having both a glass transition temperature and a melting temperature, with the latter generally being greater than the former. The glass transition temperature can be determined, for example, by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The melting point or melting temperature can also be determined by DSC.

[0064] As indicated above, the present invention therefore provides a method comprising providing a filament of a 3D printable material and printing the 3D printable material on a substrate during a printing phase to provide the 3D article.

[0065] Specifically, materials that meet the criteria for being 3D printable materials can be selected from the group consisting of metals, glass, thermoplastic polymers, silicone resins, etc. Specifically, 3D printable materials include (thermoplastic) polymers selected from the group consisting of: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), nylon (or polyamide), cellulose acetate (or cellulose), PLA (polylactic acid), terephthalates (such as PET polyethylene terephthalate), acrylics (polymethyl acrylate, plexiglass, polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA), polypropylene (or polypropylene), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), PE (such as expanded high-impact polyethylene (or polyethylene), low-density (LDPE) high-density (HDPE)), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), thermoplastic elastomers such as copolyester-based elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, polyamide elastomers, polyolefin-based elastomers, styrene-based elastomers, etc. Optionally, 3D printable materials include those selected from the group consisting of urea-formaldehyde, polyester resins, epoxy resins, melamine-formaldehyde, thermoplastic elastomers, etc. Optionally, 3D printable materials include those selected from the group consisting of polysulfones. Elastomers, particularly thermoplastic elastomers, are of particular interest because they are flexible and can help obtain relatively more flexible filaments incorporating thermally conductive materials. Thermoplastic elastomers may include one or more of the following: styrene block copolymers (TPS(TPE-s)), thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPO(TPE-o)), thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV(TPE-v or TPV)), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU)(TPU)), thermoplastic copolyesters (TPC(TPE-E)), and thermoplastic polyamides (TPA(TPE-A)).

[0066] Suitable thermoplastic materials, such as those also mentioned in WO2017 / 040893, may include one or more of the following: polyacetals (e.g., polyoxyethylene and polyoxymethylene), poly(C) 1-6 Alkyl acrylates, polyacrylamide, polyamides (e.g., aliphatic polyamides, polyphthalamides, and polyarylamides), polyamide imides, polyanhydrides, polyarylates, polyarylene ethers (e.g., polyphenylene ether), polyarylene sulfides (e.g., polyphenylene sulfide), polyarylsulfones (e.g., polyphenylene sulfone), polybenzothiazoles, polybenzo[…] azoles, polycarbonates (including polycarbonate copolymers such as polycarbonate-siloxane, polycarbonate-ester, and polycarbonate-ester-siloxane), polyesters (e.g., polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyarylates) and polyester copolymers such as polyester ethers), polyetheretherketone, polyetherimide (including copolymers such as polyetherimide-siloxane copolymers), polyetherketoneketone, polyetherketone, polyethersulfone, polyimide (including copolymers such as polyimide-siloxane copolymers), poly(C) 1-6 Alkyl) methacrylates, polymethacrylamide, polynorbornene (including copolymers containing norbornene units), polyolefins (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene and their copolymers, e.g., ethylene-α-olefin copolymers), poly Diazoles, polyoxymethylene, polyphthalates, polysilazanes, polysiloxanes, polystyrene (including copolymers such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and methyl methacrylate-butadiene-styrene (MBS)), polysulfides, polysulfonamides, polysulfonates, polysulfones, polysulfides, polytriazines, polyureas, polyurethanes, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl esters, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl halides, polyvinyl ketones, polyvinyl sulfides, polyvinylidene fluoride, etc., or combinations comprising at least one of the aforementioned thermoplastic polymers. Examples of polyamides may include, but are not limited to, the synthesis of linear polyamides, such as nylon-6,6; nylon-6.9; nylon-6.10; nylon-6.12; nylon-11; nylon-12 and nylon-4,6, preferably nylon-6 and nylon-6,6, or combinations comprising at least one of the above. Polyurethanes that can be used include aliphatic, alicyclic, aromatic and polycyclic polyurethanes, including the polyurethanes described above. Also useful are polyacrylates (C 1-6 alkyl) and polymethyl acrylate (C 1-6 Alkyl groups, including polymers of, for example, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, acrylamide, methacrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, n-butyl acrylate, and ethyl acrylate. In embodiments, polyolefins may include one or more of the following: polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, polymethylpentene (and copolymers thereof), polynorbornene (and copolymers thereof), poly-1-butene, poly(3-methylbutene), poly(4-methylpentene), and copolymers of ethylene with propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, and 1-octadecene.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the 3D printable material (and 3D printing material) includes one or more of the following: polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), styrene-acrylonitrile resin (SAN), polysulfone (PSU), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), and semi-crystalline polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polystyrene (PS), and styrene-acrylic copolymer (SMMA).

[0068] The term 3D printable material is further clarified below, but in particular refers to thermoplastic material, optionally including additives, which have a volume percentage of up to about 60%, specifically up to about 30 vol.%, such as up to 20 vol.% (the percentage of additives relative to the total volume of thermoplastic material and additives).

[0069] Therefore, in embodiments, the printable material may include two phases. The printable material may include a printable polymer phase, particularly a thermoplastic material (see again below), which is especially a substantially continuous phase. In this continuous phase of the thermoplastic polymer, additives may be present, such as one or more of the following: antioxidants, heat stabilizers, light stabilizers, UV stabilizers, UV absorbers, near-infrared absorbers, infrared absorbers, plasticizers, lubricants, mold release agents, antistatic agents, antifogging agents, antibacterial agents, colorants, laser marking additives, surface effect additives, radiation stabilizers, flame retardants, and anti-drip agents. The additives may have useful properties selected from optical, mechanical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties (see again above).

[0070] In embodiments, the printable material may include particulate material, i.e., particles embedded in a printable polymer material, which form a substantially discontinuous phase. Particularly in applications for reducing the coefficient of thermal expansion, the amount of particles in the total mixture relative to the total volume of the printable material (including (anisotropically conductive) particles) is specifically no more than 60 vol.%. For optical and surface-related effects, the amount of particles in the total mixture relative to the total volume of the printable material (including particles) is equal to or less than 20 vol.%, such as reaching 10 vol.%. Therefore, 3D printable material particularly refers to a continuous phase of a basic thermoplastic material in which other materials such as particles may be embedded. Similarly, 3D printable material particularly refers to a continuous phase of a basic thermoplastic material in which other materials such as particles are embedded. The particles may include one or more additives as defined above. Therefore, in embodiments, the 3D printable material may include particulate additives.

[0071] Printable material is printed onto a receiver item. Specifically, the receiver item can be a build platform or can be composed of a build platform. The receiver item can also be heated during 3D printing. However, the receiver item can also be cooled during 3D printing.

[0072] The phrase “printing on a receiver article” and similar phrases include: printing directly on a receiver article, or printing on a coating on a receiver article, or printing on 3D printing material previously printed on a receiver article. The term “receiver article” can refer to a printing platform, print bed, substrate, support, build plate, or build platform, etc. The term “substrate” can also be used instead of the term “receiver article.” The phrase “printing on a receiver article” and similar phrases also include printing on a separate substrate, or printing on a separate substrate consisting of: a printing platform, print bed, support, build plate, or build platform, etc. Therefore, the phrase “printing on a substrate” and similar phrases particularly include: printing directly on a substrate, or printing on a coating on a substrate, or printing on 3D printing material previously printed on a substrate. Hereinafter, the term “substrate” is further used, which can refer to a printing platform, print bed, substrate, support, build plate, or build platform, or a separate substrate on or included in the listed items.

[0073] Printable material is deposited layer by layer to create a 3D printed article (during the printing phase). The 3D printed article may exhibit a characteristic ribbed structure (derived from the deposited filaments). However, another phase, such as a finalization phase, may be performed after the printing phase. This phase may include: removing the printed article from the receiver article and / or one or more post-processing actions. One or more post-processing actions may be performed before removing the printed article from the receiver article, and / or after removing the printed article from the receiver article. For example, post-processing may include one or more of the following: polishing, coating, adding functional parts, etc. Post-processing may include smoothing the ribbed structure, which can produce a generally smooth surface.

[0074] Furthermore, the present invention relates to software products that can be used to perform the methods described herein. Therefore, in another aspect, the present invention also provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to a fused deposition modeling 3D printer or a computer constituted by a fused deposition modeling 3D printer, is capable of implementing the methods described herein.

[0075] Therefore, in one aspect, the present invention provides a software product that, when run on a computer, enables (one or more embodiments) of the method described herein for producing 3D articles by fused deposition modeling.

[0076] The method described herein provides 3D printed articles. Therefore, in another aspect, the present invention also provides a 3D printed article obtainable using the method described herein. In another aspect, a 3D printed article obtainable using the method described herein is provided.

[0077] Specifically, in one aspect, the present invention provides a 3D article comprising 3D printing material. The 3D article comprises multiple layers of 3D printing material. Specifically, the multiple layers comprise stacked layers of first and second layers. Specifically, in an embodiment, the first and second layers are configured to be adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the first and second layers may be configured with a plurality of openings between the first and second layers, particularly openings in a plane including the z-axis. These openings are particularly due to local differences in the interlayer distance (d1) between the first and second layers. Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention particularly provides a 3D article comprising 3D printing material, wherein the 3D article comprises multiple layers of 3D printing material, wherein the multiple layers comprise stacked layers of first and second layers (which are configured to be adjacent to each other), having a plurality of openings between the first and second layers (particularly in a plane including the z-axis) due to local differences in the interlayer distance (d1) between the first and second layers.

[0078] In this way, an article, such as an article wall, can be provided that allows gases, such as air, to pass through it. Furthermore, an article can be provided that allows at least a portion of the light illuminating the article to propagate through an opening.

[0079] In certain embodiments, the stack may include a (virtual) stacking plane configured parallel to the stack of layers, wherein a plurality of openings at least partially coincide with the stacking plane. As in one embodiment, the 3D article may be 1D or 2D curved, and the stacking plane may also be 1D or 2D curved in that embodiment.

[0080] In a particular embodiment, the stack comprises a plurality of n-fold stacked layers, where n ≥ 5, wherein the stack comprises at least five groups, each group comprising at least two layers and having k ≥ 2 openings configured in a regular arrangement. Thus, in this embodiment, the regular arrangement in different groups may be identical. However, in other embodiments, the regular arrangements of two or more of the at least five groups may differ from each other. They may, for example, differ in spacing or amplitude, etc.

[0081] Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the stack may include a plurality of n-fold stacked layers, where n≥5, for example n≥10, wherein the stack may include two or more groups, each group including at least two layers having openings (between the stacked layers of the group), wherein the openings in the stack are arranged in a regular pattern.

[0082] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the stack comprises a plurality of n-fold stacked layers, where n ≥ 10, wherein the stack comprises at least five groups, each group comprising at least two layers, wherein k ≥ 2 openings are configured in a regular arrangement. Therefore, in this embodiment, the regular arrangement in different groups can be identical. However, in other embodiments, the regular arrangements of two or more of the at least five groups can differ from each other. For example, they may have different spacing or amplitudes, etc. For example, in this embodiment, n ≥ 10, and at least 10 groups, each group comprising at least two layers, wherein k ≥ 2 openings are configured in a regular arrangement. A regular arrangement may be more desirable. Furthermore, a regular arrangement can also be used to have a more uniform light distribution. Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the stack may comprise a plurality of n-fold stacked layers, where n ≥ 10, wherein the stack may comprise at least five groups, each group comprising (between the stacked layers of the group) at least two layers having k ≥ 2 openings, wherein the openings in the stack form a regular arrangement. Therefore, in this embodiment, substantially all openings together form a regular arrangement.

[0083] 3D objects may include multiple openings, such as at least one per layer on average, at least two per layer, or even more specifically, at least five per layer, at least seven, or even more specifically, at least ten.

[0084] An opening can be used as a physical opening (or channel) to allow the transmission of (visible) light. Alternatively or additionally, an opening can be used to transfer air or another gas. In this way, heat can also be transferred through the opening. Therefore, openings can also be used to improve thermal management, such as when applying 3D objects to lighting equipment or lighting fixtures.

[0085] Specifically, 3D objects can include at least 40 such openings, or even more specifically, at least 60, and so on, even more specifically, at least 70. This can provide the desired optical effects. Furthermore, it can provide ideally attractive optical effects.

[0086] A 3D object may include at least one first layer and at least one second layer. However, specifically, a 3D object may include at least five, or even more specifically at least eight, or more specifically at least ten first and second layers.

[0087] 3D printed articles may include multiple layers stacked on top of each other. The width (thickness) and height of the (individually 3D printed) layers may, for example, be selected from the range of 100-5000 μm in the embodiments, such as 200-2500 μm, with the height generally being smaller than the width. For example, the ratio of height to width may be equal to or less than 0.8, such as equal to or less than 0.6.

[0088] The layer can be a core - shell layer or can be composed of a single material. Within the layer, variations can also occur in the composition, for example when applying a core - shell printing process, during printing, it changes from printing the first material (instead of printing the second material) to printing the second material (instead of printing the first material).

[0089] At least a portion of the 3D printed article can include a coating.

[0090] Some specific embodiments related to 3D printed articles have been elucidated below when discussing the method. Below, some specific embodiments related to 3D printed articles will be discussed in more detail.

[0091] In an embodiment, the 3D article can include two or more layers, each layer being a regular pattern with multiple modulations, where each layer includes a stacking axis (SA), and the patterns are the same but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis (SA) of one of the two or more layers.

[0092] Furthermore, in a specific embodiment, the 3D article can include two or more groups, each group including at least two layers with a regular pattern having multiple openings (between adjacent layers), where each layer includes a stacking axis (SA), and at least two patterns are the same but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis (SA) of one of the layers, and the regular pattern has a pitch (P). Specifically, in an embodiment, the patterns can be translated relative to each other by an offset S, where S = x*P, where 0.4 ≤ x ≤ 0.6. In a specific embodiment, 2*W ≤ P ≤ 20*W, as in an embodiment 2.5*W ≤ P ≤ 10*W. As indicated herein, the value of the pitch may be different for the first and second layers of different groups.

[0093] As indicated above, these layers have a layer width (W). Specifically, in an embodiment, the first and second layers can include a stacking axis (SA) configured in a (selectively curved) plane, where the openings are defined by modulations relative to the respective stacking axis (SA), and the modulations have an amplitude value (A) (relative to the stacking axis (SA)).

[0094] Specifically, in a specific embodiment, 0.5*W < A ≤ 10*W. More specifically, 1*W < A ≤ 5*W. Furthermore, in a specific embodiment, the multiple modulations have a modulation width (W1) at half of the amplitude value (A), where 0.1*W ≤ W1 ≤ 10*W. More specifically, 0.5*W ≤ W1 ≤ 5*W.

[0095] As indicated above, in certain (other) embodiments, the layer has a layer height (H), where the plurality of modulations have an amplitude value (A) (with respect to the printing path), where 0.5*H < A ≤ 10*H. More specifically, 1*H < A ≤ 5*H. Additionally, particularly in (other) embodiments, the plurality of modulations have a modulation width (W1) at half of the amplitude value (A), where 0.1*H ≤ W1 ≤ 10*H. More specifically, 0.5*H ≤ W1 ≤ 5*H.

[0096] The stacking axes may together define a (planar or curved) plane (or a (planar or non-planar) (cross-sectional) surface).

[0097] Moreover, in an embodiment, at least one of the first and second layers includes a plurality of modulations. In certain embodiments, two or more of the modulations are configured to be symmetric with respect to the stacking axis (SA), and / or two or more of the modulations are configured to be asymmetric with respect to the stacking axis (SA). Additionally, in an embodiment, the plurality of modulations s may be configured in one or more of a block arrangement, a zigzag arrangement, and a sawtooth arrangement (see also above). Furthermore, as can be derived from the above, in certain embodiments, (at least one of the first and second layers includes a) plurality of modulations have a pitch P. Specifically, in an embodiment, 2*W ≤ P ≤ 20*W, such as 2.5*W ≤ 1 ≤ 15*W, as in an embodiment 2.5*W ≤ P ≤ 10*W.

[0098] Moreover, in an embodiment, the 3D article may include two or more layers, each layer having a plurality of modulations, where the modulations of at least two of the two or more layers are offset relative to each other.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the 3D article includes an article wall, where the article wall includes multiple layers of 3D printed material, which includes a plurality of openings, where the plurality of openings define an opening between two sides of the article wall, where the layer has a layer width (W), where the cross-sectional area of the opening (among the plurality of openings) has an equivalent circular diameter D, and where the shortest distance (d2) between the nearest adjacent openings is selected from the range of W ≤ d2 ≤ 20*D. In certain embodiments, the plurality of openings (between the two sides of the article wall) are configured to be regularly arranged.

[0100] Furthermore, in embodiments where two or more layers each include multiple modulations, these layers may have a layer height (H), wherein for a set of two layers each having multiple modulations of the nearest adjacent layer, one or more of the following apply: (i) the modulations of the two layers have the same spacing, but the modulations of each layer are offset relative to each other, and (ii) the nearest adjacent modulations in different layers of the set of two layers have a mutual distance (d1) of at least layer height (H). Specifically, in these embodiments, the spacing may be substantially the same (although this is not necessarily the case). Furthermore, particularly in these embodiments, the layer widths of (one or more) first layers and (one or more) second layers may be substantially the same (although this is not necessarily the case). Furthermore, particularly in these embodiments, the layer heights of the first and second layers may be substantially the same (although this is not necessarily the case). Furthermore, particularly in these embodiments, the magnitudes of the offsets are substantially the same (although this is not necessarily the case).

[0101] The 3D-printed articles obtained (using the methods described herein) can be functional in themselves. The resulting 3D articles can (alternatively) be used for decorative or artistic purposes. 3D-printed articles may include or be provided with functional components. Specifically, the functional components can be selected from the group consisting of optical components, electrical components, and magnetic components. The term "optical component" particularly refers to components with optical functionality, such as lenses, mirrors, light-transmitting elements, filters, etc. The term "optical component" can also refer to a light source (such as an LED). The term "electronic component" can refer, for example, to integrated circuits, PCBs, batteries, drivers, and can also refer to a light source (since a light source can be considered both an optical and electronic component). The term "magnetic component" can refer, for example, to magnetic connectors, coils, etc. Alternatively or additionally, functional components may include thermal components (e.g., configured to cool or heat electrical components). Thus, functional components can be configured to generate or dissipate heat, etc.

[0102] As indicated above, 3D printed articles can be used for various purposes. Among these, 3D printed articles can be used for lighting. Therefore, in another aspect, the invention also provides a lighting device that includes a 3D article as defined herein. In a particular aspect, the invention provides a lighting system comprising (a) a light source configured to provide (visible) light and (b) a 3D article as defined herein, wherein the 3D article can be configured as one or more of: (i) at least a portion of a housing, (ii) at least a portion of a wall of an illumination chamber, and (iii) a functional component, wherein the functional component may be selected from optical components, support members, electrically insulating components, conductive components, thermally insulating components, and thermally conductive components. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the 3D article can be configured as one or more of: (i) at least a portion of a housing of a lighting device, (ii) at least a portion of a wall of an illumination chamber, and (iii) an optical element. Because it can provide a relatively smooth surface, the 3D printed article can be used as a mirror or lens, etc. In embodiments, the 3D printed article can be configured to provide shadows. The device or system may include a plurality of different 3D printed articles with different functionalities.

[0103] Returning to the 3D printing process, a specific 3D printer can be used to provide the 3D printed articles described herein. Therefore, in another aspect, the present invention also provides a fused deposition modeling 3D printer comprising (a) a printer head including a printer nozzle, and (b) a 3D printable material supply device configured to supply 3D printable material to the printer head, wherein the fused deposition modeling 3D printer is configured to supply said 3D printable material, as described herein.

[0104] A printer nozzle may include a single opening. In other embodiments, the printer nozzle may be of a core-shell type, having two (or more) openings. The term "printer head" may also refer to multiple (different) printer heads; therefore, the term "printer nozzle" may also refer to multiple (different) printer nozzles.

[0105] A 3D printable material supply device can supply a filament comprising 3D printable material to a print head, or it can supply the 3D printable material itself, while the print head creates a filament comprising the 3D printable material. Therefore, in embodiments, the present invention provides a fused deposition modeling 3D printer comprising (a) a print head including a printer nozzle, and (b) a filament supply device configured to supply a filament comprising 3D printable material to the print head, wherein the fused deposition modeling 3D printer is configured to supply the 3D printable material to a substrate, as described herein.

[0106] Specifically, the 3D printer includes a controller (or is functionally coupled to a controller) that is configured to perform the methods described herein in a control mode (or “operation mode”). In addition to the term “controller,” the term “control system” may also be used (see above, for example).

[0107] The term "control" and similar terms specifically refer to determining or supervising the operation of an element. Therefore, "control" and similar terms as used herein can refer, for example, to performing actions on an element (determining actions or supervising the operation of the element), such as measurement, display, actuation, activation, switching, temperature change, etc. In addition, the term "control" and similar terms can also include monitoring. Therefore, the term "control" and similar terms can include performing actions on an element and performing actions on an element while monitoring that element. Control of an element can be accomplished through a control system, which can also be referred to as a "controller." The control system and the element can therefore be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. An element can include a control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element may be physically uncoupled. Control can be accomplished via wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" can also refer to multiple different control systems, especially those functionally coupled, for example, one control system may be a master control system, while one or more other control systems may be slave control systems. The control system may include, or may be functionally coupled to, a user interface. The control system can also be configured to receive and execute instructions from remote control. In embodiments, the control system can be controlled via an app on a device (such as a portable device, like a smartphone, iPhone, tablet, etc.). Therefore, the device does not necessarily have to be coupled to the lighting system, but can be (temporarily) functionally coupled to it. Thus, in embodiments, the control system can also be configured to be controlled by an app on a remote device. In such embodiments, the control system of the lighting system can be controlled from a control system or from a mode. For example, the lighting system can be identified by a code, specifically, by a unique code for the corresponding lighting system. The control system of the lighting system can be configured to be controlled by an external control system that can access the lighting system based on knowledge (input via a user interface of an optical sensor with a (unique) code, such as a QR code reader). The lighting system may also include components for communicating with other systems or devices, such as via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE, or WiMAX or other wireless technologies. The system, or device, can perform actions in a "mode," "operating mode," or "mode of operation." Similarly, in the method, actions, stages, or steps may be performed in a “mode” or “operational mode” or “mode of operation” or “operational mode”. The term “mode” may also be indicated as “control mode”. This does not preclude the system, or apparatus, or device from being adapted to provide another control mode or multiple other control modes. Likewise, this does not preclude one or more other modes from being performed before and / or after the execution of this mode. However, in embodiments, a control system may be available that is adapted to provide at least a control mode.If other modes are available, the selection of this mode can be specifically performed via the user interface; however, other options (e.g., performing a mode depending on sensor signals or a (time) scheme) are also possible. In embodiments, an operating mode can also refer to a system, apparatus, or device that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on," without further adjustability). Therefore, in embodiments, the control system can perform control based on one or more of the following: input signals from the user interface, sensor signals (from sensors), and timers. The term "timer" can refer to a clock and / or a predetermined timing scheme.

[0108] The terms “3D printer,” “FDM printer,” or “printer” can be used instead of “Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printer.” Printer nozzles may also be indicated as “nozzle” or sometimes as “extruder nozzle.”

[0109] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a lighting device comprising a 3D article as defined herein, wherein the 3D article is configured as one or more of: (i) at least a portion of a lighting device housing, (ii) at least a portion of a wall of a lighting chamber, and (iii) an optical element. Thus, the 3D article can transmit a portion of visible light. For example, in this way, at least a portion of the lighting device housing that transmits visible light and / or at least a portion of the wall of a lighting chamber that transmits visible light can be provided.

[0110] In a particular embodiment, the 3D article includes an article wall, wherein the article wall includes a plurality of 3D printed material layers, wherein the article wall includes a plurality of openings between two sides of the article wall, wherein the plurality of openings are defined at least in part by a plurality of layer offsets.

[0111] For example, every 10cm 2 (The wall of the object) may have at least one opening, such as every 4cm. 2 There is at least one opening. In an embodiment, there may be no more than 10 openings per square centimeter, such as no more than 5 openings, specifically no more than about 2 openings per square centimeter, such as about 1 opening per square centimeter in an embodiment. Attached Figure Description

[0112] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, and wherein:

[0113] Figures 1A-1C Some general aspects of embodiments of 3D printers and 3D printing materials are schematically depicted;

[0114] Figures 2A-2E Some embodiments are shown;

[0115] Figures 3A-3C Some examples are illustrated schematically; and

[0116] Figure 4 The application is illustrated schematically. The illustration is not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0117] Figure 1A Some aspects of a 3D printer are schematically depicted. Reference numeral 500 indicates a 3D printer. Reference numeral 530 indicates a functional unit configured for 3D printing—particularly FDM 3D printing; this reference numeral may also indicate a 3D printing stage unit. Here, only a printer head for providing 3D printing material, such as an FDM 3D printer head, is schematically depicted. Reference numeral 501 indicates a printer head. The 3D printer of the present invention may specifically include multiple printer heads (see below). Reference numeral 502 indicates a printer nozzle. The 3D printer of the present invention may specifically include multiple printer nozzles, but other embodiments are also possible. Reference numeral 320 indicates a filament of printable 3D printable material (such as shown above). For clarity, not all features of the 3D printer are depicted, only those particularly relevant to the present invention (see still below). Reference numeral 321 indicates the extrudate (of the 3D printable material 201).

[0118] 3D printer 500 is configured to generate 3D article 1 by layer-by-layer deposition on receiver article 550, which in embodiments may be at least temporarily cooled, comprising multiple layers 322, wherein each layer 322 includes a 3D printable material 201, such as having a melting point T. m 3D printable material 201 can be deposited on substrate 1550 (during the printing stage). Through deposition, 3D printable material 201 has become 3D printing material 202. 3D printable material 201 detached from nozzle 502 is also indicated as extrudate 321. Reference numeral 401 indicates thermoplastic material.

[0119] The 3D printer 500 can be configured to heat the filament 320 material upstream of the printer nozzle 502. This can be accomplished, for example, using a device that includes one or more of extrusion and / or heating functions. Such a device is indicated by reference numeral 573 and is arranged upstream of the printer nozzle 502 (i.e., before the filament material leaves the printer nozzle 502). The printer head 501 may (therefore) include a liquefier or heater. Reference numeral 201 indicates printable material. When deposited, this material is indicated as (3D) printing material, which is indicated by reference numeral 202.

[0120] Reference numeral 572 indicates a spool or roller containing material, specifically in the form of filament, which may be indicated as filament 320. The 3D printer 500 transforms this material into a layer 322 on a receiver article or deposited printing material in an extruder 321 downstream of the printer nozzle. Generally, the diameter of the extruder 321 downstream of the nozzle 502 decreases relative to the diameter of the filament upstream of the printer head 501. Therefore, the printer nozzle is sometimes (also) indicated as an extruder nozzle. A 3D article 1 can be formed by layering layer 322 and / or layer arrangement on layer 322. Reference numeral 575 indicates a filament supply device, which here specifically includes a spool or roller and a drive wheel, indicated by reference numeral 576.

[0121] The reference numeral A in the attached figure indicates the longitudinal axis, filament axis, or elongation axis of the 3D printed material layer.

[0122] Reference numeral C schematically depicts a control system, such as a temperature control system specifically configured to control the temperature of the receiver article 550. The control system C may include a heater capable of heating the receiver article 550 to a temperature of at least 50°C, but specifically to a range up to about 350°C, such as at least 200°C.

[0123] Alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment, the receiver plate may also be movable in one or both directions of the xy plane (horizontal plane). Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment, the receiver plate may also be rotatable about the z-axis (vertical). Therefore, the control system can move the receiver plate in one or more of the x, y, and z directions.

[0124] Alternatively, the printer may have a head that can also rotate during printing. This type of printer has the advantage that the printing material does not need to rotate during printing.

[0125] The layers are indicated by reference numeral 322 and have a layer height H and a layer width W.

[0126] Note that 3D printable material is not necessarily supplied to the printer head as filament 320. Alternatively, filament 320 can also be produced from 3D printable material blocks in the 3D printer 500.

[0127] The reference numeral D in the attached figure indicates the diameter of the nozzle (the 3D printable material 201 is forced through this diameter).

[0128] Figure 1B The printing of the 3D article 1 being constructed is illustrated in more detail in a 3D manner. Here, in this schematic diagram, the ends of the filaments in a single plane are not connected to each other, although this may be the case in actual embodiments.

[0129] The reference numeral H indicates the height of the layer. Layers are indicated by reference numeral 322. Here, the layers have a substantially circular cross-section. However, they may often be flat, such as having an external shape similar to a flat elliptical tube or flat elliptical cylinder (i.e., having a circular rod with a diameter compressed to a height smaller than its width, where the sides (defining the width) are (still) circular).

[0130] therefore, Figures 1A-1B Some aspects of a fused deposition modeling 3D printer 500 are schematically depicted, including: (a) a first printhead including a printer nozzle 502, (b) a filament supply device 575 configured to supply filaments comprising 3D printable material 201 to the first printhead, and optionally (c) a receiver article 550. Figures 1A-1B In this context, the first or second printable material, or the first or second printing material, is indicated by a common indicator for printable material 201 and printing material, respectively. Immediately downstream of nozzle 502, a filament containing 3D printable material is deposited to form a layer 322 containing 3D printing material 202.

[0131] Figure 1C The stacking of 3D printed layers 322 is schematically depicted, each layer having a layer height H and a layer width W. It should be noted in the embodiments that the layer width and / or layer height may be different for two or more layers 322.

[0132] See Figures 1A-1C The deposited 3D printable material filament produces a layer with a height H (and width W). Layer 322 is deposited after layer 322 to generate 3D object 1. Figure 1C A single-walled 3D object 1 is depicted very schematically.

[0133] Figure 2A The layer-by-layer deposition of layers 322 of 3D printing material 202 is schematically depicted. A stack of two layers 1300 is shown. Here, as an example, a first layer 1322 may be provided first, and a second layer 2322 with modulation 340 is provided on top of it. Layer height is indicated by reference numeral H, and layer width is indicated by reference numeral W. Each layer has an extension axis A of the 3D printing material 202 layer. Note that these axes may also be curved. In addition, reference numeral 323 indicates the corresponding printing path. Note that the stack may provide a surface that includes all printing paths 323 and / or extension axes A. Reference numeral SA indicates the stack axis of layer 322; each layer may include a stack axis SA. In the embodiment, the stack axes may be substantially parallel, which is the case here (see still Figure 2b), although this is not required. As can be seen on the right, the stack axis SA may define a cross-sectional plane (see still Figure 2b). Figure 2B)。In an embodiment, the plane can be planar, but in other embodiments, the plane can be non-planar (i.e., a 1D or 2D curved surface). In Figure 2B Cross-sections at two different positions are schematically depicted. Further note that, in fact, it is assumed for these embodiments that these layers are substantially on top of each other and do not bend (in the xy-plane).

[0134] Thus, Figures 2A-2B The result of a method for producing a 3D article 1 by fused deposition modeling is schematically depicted. The method includes a 3D printing stage that includes depositing a 3D printable material layer by layer (still see Figures 1A-1C ) to provide a 3D article 1 that includes a 3D printing material 202. The 3D article 1 includes a plurality of layers 322 of the 3D printing material 202. The plurality of layers 322 includes a stack 1300. The stack 1300 includes a first layer 1322 and a second layer 2322 (which are configured to be adjacent to each other). Specifically, the method includes 3D printing the first layer 1322 and then printing the second layer 2322 while providing a plurality of modulations 340 in the z-direction on at least one of the first and second layers 1322, 2322 (only one is depicted here for ease of understanding), thereby defining a plurality of openings 354 between the first and second layers 1322, 2322 (in a plane including the z-axis). Thus, Figures 2A-2B An embodiment of a 3D article 1 including a 3D printing material 202 is schematically depicted, where the 3D article 1 includes a plurality of layers 322 of the 3D printing material 202. The plurality of layers 322 includes a stack 1300 of a first layer 1322 and a second layer 2322 (which are configured to be adjacent to each other), having a plurality of openings 354 between the first and second layers 1322, 2322 (in a plane including the z-axis) due to local differences in the interlayer distance d1 between the first and second layers 1322, 2322.

[0135] Figures 2C-2E Some additional aspects are schematically depicted. Referring to these figures (but still see Figures 2A-2B ), the layer 322 has a layer width W. Further, in particular, the modulation 340 has an amplitude value A (relative to the printing path 323). Specifically, 0.5*W < A ≤ 10*W. The modulation 340 has a modulation width W1 at half of the amplitude value A. In an embodiment, 0.1*W ≤ W1 ≤ 10*W.

[0136] In Figure 2B the cross-sectional view of, it can also be seen that the same layer may have a non-zero interlayer distance d1 at one position and a zero interlayer distance d1 at another position.

[0137] Figures 2C-2DAn embodiment of a method for 3D printing at least one of first and second layers 1322, 2322 having multiple modulations 340 is schematically depicted, including one or more of block-like, zigzag, and sawtooth patterns. Several different arrangements are shown here for economic purposes.

[0138] Modulation 340 has a spacing P, where 2*W≤P≤20*W.

[0139] The text also describes an embodiment of a 3D-printed article 1 as a result of a method comprising 3D printing two or more layers 322, each layer 322 having a regular pattern comprising a plurality of modulations 340, wherein the patterns are identical but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis SA of one of the two or more layers 322 (see...). Figure 2C (The two upper sinusoidal layers) and Figure 2D For example, the patterns are translated by an offset S relative to each other, where S = x * P, and 0.4 ≤ x ≤ 0.6. Therefore, the interlayer distance can vary with the length of layer 322.

[0140] In one embodiment, the 3D article 1 may include an article wall 350. The article wall 350 may include multiple layers 322 of 3D printing material 202. Multiple openings 354 may be configured between the two sides of the article wall 350 (see still). Figure 2E ).

[0141] Therefore, the method may include a regular arrangement of 3D printing multiple modulators 340 to provide an opening 354 between the two sides of the object wall 350.

[0142] like Figure 2D The schematic depiction shows that the cross-sectional region of the opening 354 (among a plurality of openings 354) has an equivalent circular diameter D, wherein the shortest distance d2 between the nearest adjacent opening 354 is selected from the range W ≤ d2 ≤ 20 * D.

[0143] In an embodiment, the 3D printing method may include continuous 3D printing of multiple layers 322 having one or more print path modulations 340.

[0144] See Figure 2E The stack 1300 may include a virtual (optionally curved) stack plane 1305 configured to be parallel to the stack of layers 322 consisting of the stack 1300. A plurality of openings 354 (only one is depicted here) at least partially coincide with the stack plane 1305.

[0145] See Figure 2C and Figure 2BThe stack 1300 may include a plurality of n-fold stacked layers 322, where n ≥ 5. In an embodiment, the stack 1300 may include two or more groups 5322, each group including at least two layers 322 with openings 354 (between the stacked layers 322 of the group 5322), wherein the openings 354 in the stack 1300 are arranged in a regular pattern. Specifically, in an embodiment, the stack 1300 includes a plurality of n-fold stacked layers 322, where n ≥ 10. Specifically, the stack 1300 may include at least five groups 5322, each group including at least two layers 322 with k ≥ 2 openings 354 (between the stacked layers 322 of the group 5322), wherein the openings 354 in the stack 1300 are arranged in a regular pattern.

[0146] In an embodiment, the 3D article 1 may include two or more groups 5322, each group comprising at least two layers 322 with a regular pattern having a plurality of openings 354 (between adjacent layers). In an embodiment, each of the layers 322 includes a stacking axis SA, wherein at least two patterns are identical but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis SA of one of the layers 322, wherein the regular pattern has a spacing P. The patterns are translated relative to each other by an offset S, where S = x*P, where 0.4 ≤ x ≤ 0.6. As indicated above, at least one of the first and second layers 1322, 2322 has a modulation 340 with a spacing P, where 2*W ≤ P ≤ 20*W.

[0147] As indicated above, Figures 2C-2D An embodiment of a 3D article 1 comprising two or more layers 322 is schematically depicted, wherein each layer 322 has a regular pattern comprising a plurality of modulations 340, wherein each layer 322 includes a stacking axis SA, wherein the patterns are identical but translated relative to each other along the stacking axis SA of one of the two or more layers 322.

[0148] Figures 2C-2D An embodiment of a 3D article 1 including an article wall 350 is also schematically depicted, wherein the article wall 350 includes multiple layers 322 of 3D printing material 202 comprising multiple openings 354. The multiple openings 354 define an opening between the two sides of the article wall 350 (see still). Figure 2E Layer 322 has a layer width W. The cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 354 (among the plurality of openings 354) has an equivalent circle diameter D. The shortest distance d2 between the nearest adjacent openings 354 can be selected from the range W ≤ d2 ≤ 20 * D.

[0149] Specifically, multiple openings 354 (between the two sides of the object wall 350) can be configured to be arranged in a regular pattern.

[0150] Figures 3A-3C Some examples are shown, where Figure 3A The image depicts white 3D printing material, while Figure 3B The 3D printing material 202 is described as transmitting light. Therefore, the 3D printing material 202 can be transmissive to at least a portion of visible light (especially wavelengths selected from the 380-780 nm range). Figure 3B The image depicts a black 3D printing material. All wall elements include multiple holes.

[0151] The advantage of combining printed holes with artificial light within the structure is that when looking at the light, the shape of the beam is broken by the transparent, circular printed lines, making the "vertical high-intensity" areas visible on the light's surface. The beam can be broken in essentially random directions. The light can be evenly distributed across the surface.

[0152] Figure 4 An embodiment of a lamp or lighting device, indicated by reference numeral 2, is schematically depicted, comprising a light source 10 for generating light 11. The lamp may include a housing or lampshade or another element that may include or be a 3D-printed article 1 (several embodiments of which have been described above). Here, a hemisphere (in the cross-sectional view) schematically indicates a housing or lampshade. The lamp or lighting device may be or may include a lighting apparatus (which includes the light source 10). Therefore, the term lighting apparatus may refer to a lamp or lighting device, and is thus indicated by reference numeral 2. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the lighting apparatus includes a 3D article 1. The 3D article 1 may be configured as one or more of the following: (i) at least a portion of the lighting apparatus housing; (ii) at least a portion of the wall of the lighting chamber; and (iii) an optical element. Therefore, in embodiments, the 3D article may be reflective to the light source 11 and / or transmissive to the light source 11. Here, the 3D article may be, for example, a housing or lampshade. The housing or lampshade includes an article portion. For possible embodiments of the article portion, see again above. Figure 4 Several embodiments are schematically depicted, wherein in the first embodiment I, the 3D article 1 has relatively low transmittance, while in the other embodiments II and III, the transmittance is high.

[0153] Figure 4 For example, as well as Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figures 3A-3C The illustration schematically depicts possible embodiments of textured perforations.

[0154] In this embodiment, the 3D article may include regular spacing for each 3D printing layer. In this embodiment, the 3D article may include regular spacing for at least 10 3D printing layers, more preferably at least 13, and most preferably at least 15.

[0155] In an embodiment, the 3D article can include a first 3D printed layer comprising a first material and a second 3D printed layer comprising a second material different from the first material.

[0156] In an embodiment, the 3D article can include a first 3D printed layer comprising a first color and a second 3D printed layer comprising a second color different from the first color.

[0157] In an embodiment, the spacing P can preferably be W < P < 3W, more specifically 1.2W < P < 2.7W, and most specifically 1.5W < P < 2.5W. For example, P = 2.

[0158] The term "plurality" refers to two or more.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will understand the terms "substantially" or "essentially" herein. The terms "substantially" or "essentially" can also include embodiments having "completely", "fully", "entirely", etc. Thus, in an embodiment, the adjectives substantially or essentially can also be removed. Where applicable, the term "substantially" or the term "essentially" can also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, particularly 99% or higher, and even more particularly 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0160] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments where the term "comprising" means "consisting of".

[0161] The term "and / or" specifically relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after the "and / or". For example, the phrase "article 1 and / or article 2" and similar phrases can relate to one or more of article 1 and article 2. The term "comprising" can, in one embodiment, mean "consisting of", but in another embodiment can also refer to "at least containing the defined kind and optionally one or more other kinds".

[0162] In addition, the terms first, second, third, etc. in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe an order or a temporal sequence. It should be understood that the terms used in this way are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and the embodiments of the present invention described herein can operate in other sequences than those described or illustrated herein.

[0163] The devices, apparatuses or systems herein can be described during operation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not limited to the operating method or the devices, apparatuses or systems in operation.

[0164] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the present invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0165] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims.

[0166] The use of the verb "comprising" and its variations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claims. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprising," "including," etc., should be interpreted in an inclusive sense, rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, meaning "including but not limited to."

[0167] The article "a" or "one" preceding an element does not preclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0168] This invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the device claims, apparatus claims, or system claims listing several means, several of these means can be embodied in the same hardware article. The fact that certain measures are listed in dissimilar dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0169] The present invention also provides a control system that can control a device or apparatus or system, or can perform the methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to or included in a computer within a device or apparatus or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device or apparatus or system.

[0170] The present invention is also applicable to devices, apparatuses, or systems that include one or more characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings. The present invention also relates to a method or process that includes one or more features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings.

[0171] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can be combined. Additionally, certain features can form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

[0172] It goes without saying that one or more of the first (printable or printable) material and the second (printable or printable) material may contain fillers such as glass and fibers, which affect the T of the material(s). g or T m No impact.

[0173] In this embodiment, the invention provides a method in which 3D printed layers are stacked, but at least one layer is modulated at one or more locations. Thus, a layer may deviate from the layer below in the z-direction, but may also return to the layer below. This may be over a relatively small length. This deviation or modulation is chosen so that there is a (small) opening between the lower layer and the layer in the plane of the layer. In this way, a 3D printed article comprising a stack of layers can have (physical) openings that allow light to pass through. Generally, the layer heights are not fitted. Deviations or offsets can be provided in a conventional manner. This can provide 3D printing with regularly arranged openings. Note that not every layer of a 3D printed article must include such deviations or offsets.

Claims

1. A method for producing a 3D article (1) by fused deposition modeling, the method comprising a 3D printing phase, the 3D printing phase comprising depositing a 3D printable material (201) layer by layer to provide the 3D article (1) comprising 3D printed material (202), wherein the 3D article (1) comprises a plurality of layers (322) of 3D printed material (202), wherein the plurality of layers (322) comprises a stack (1300), wherein the stack (1300) comprises a first layer (1322) and a second layer (2322), wherein the method comprises: - 3D printing the first layer (1322) and subsequently 3D printing the second layer (2322) while providing in each of the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322) a regular pattern comprising a plurality of modulations (340) in a z-direction, the z-direction being a direction in which the layers (322) are 3D printed on top of each other, the regular patterns being identical but translated relative to each other along a stacking axis (SA) of one of the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322), wherein the layers (322) have a layer width W and the plurality of modulations (340) have a pitch P, wherein the regular pattern is translated by an offset S relative to the other regular pattern, and wherein 2*W < P < 20*W and S = x*P, with 0.4 < x < 0.

6.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the layers (322) have a layer width W, wherein the plurality of modulations (340) have an amplitude value A, wherein 0.5*W < A < 10*W, wherein the plurality of modulations (340) have a modulation width W1 at half of the amplitude value A, wherein 0.5*W < W1 < 10*W.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, comprising 3D printing at least one of the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322) with the plurality of modulations (340) in one or more of a block-like manner, a zigzag manner, and a sawtooth manner.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the 3D printable material (201) transmits at least a portion of visible light.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the 3D article (1) comprises an article wall (350), wherein the article wall (350) comprises the plurality of layers (322) of 3D printed material (202), wherein the method comprises providing the plurality of layers (322) with the plurality of openings (354) between two sides of the article wall (350).

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the layer (322) has a layer width W, wherein a cross-sectional area of the opening (354) has an equivalent circle diameter D, wherein a shortest distance d2 between nearest neighboring openings (354) is selected from the range of W < d2 < 20*D.

7. A 3D article (1) obtainable by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stack (1300) comprises a plurality of n stacked layers (322), wherein n > 10, wherein the stack (1300) comprises at least five groups (5322), each group comprising at least two layers (322) having k > 2 openings (354) configured in a regular arrangement.

8. The 3D article (1) according to claim 7, wherein the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322) comprise a stack axis (SA) configured as a plane, wherein the openings (354) are defined by a modulation (340) of the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322) with respect to the respective stack axis (SA), wherein the modulation (340) has an amplitude value A, wherein 0.5*W < A < 10*W, wherein the plurality of modulations (340) have a modulation width W1 at half of the amplitude value A, wherein 0.1*W < W1 < 10*W.

9. The 3D article (1) according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of modulations (340) of at least one of the first layer (1322) and the second layer (2322) are configured in one or more of a block-like arrangement, a zig-zag arrangement, and a saw-tooth arrangement.

10. The 3D article (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the 3D printing material (202) transmits at least a portion of visible light.

11. The 3D article (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the 3D article (1) comprises an article wall (350), wherein the article wall (350) comprises the plurality of layers (322) of 3D printing material (202), the plurality of layers (322) comprising the plurality of openings (354), wherein the plurality of openings (354) define an opening between two sides of the article wall (350), wherein a cross-sectional area of the opening (354) has an equivalent circle diameter D, wherein a shortest distance d2 between nearest neighboring openings (354) is selected from the range of W < d2 < 20*D.

12. A lighting device (2) comprising the 3D article (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the 3D article (1) is configured as one or more of (i) at least a portion of a lighting device housing, (ii) at least a portion of a wall of a lighting chamber, and (iii) an optical element.

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