Method and system for printing a three-dimensional printed model

Abstract

The application provides a printing method and a printing system for a three-dimensional printing model. The printing method comprises the following steps: obtaining a model original file, wherein the model original file contains preset parameters of a model to be printed; layering the model to obtain a slice file, wherein the slice file contains multiple printing slices of the model; configuring preset parameters of at least one boundary in one or more printing slices, wherein the at least one boundary is a closed curve, and the printing slice is divided into at least two areas by the boundary; configuring exposure light intensity for each area; and outputting a model printing file, wherein the model printing file contains the preset parameters of the model and the boundary, and the exposure light intensity corresponding to each area in the printing slice. The printing method and the printing system can control the exposure intensity of different areas in a targeted manner, thereby improving the accuracy of the three-dimensional printing model and solving the problems of easy deformation and easy breakage of the printing model.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates primarily to the field of 3D printing, and more particularly to a method and system for printing 3D models. Background Technology

[0002] In area-array photopolymerization 3D printing technology, the curing of each slice typically employs uniform light intensity exposure across the entire image layer, meaning every point in the image layer uses the same light intensity and brightness. This method is convenient and overcomes the low efficiency of traditional printing technologies. However, the uniform light intensity area-array exposure 3D printing method still has many shortcomings.

[0003] First, when the exposed planar layer is solid and has a large area, the shrinkage during the resin curing process is significant. Furthermore, density differences exist between adjacent layers. The accumulated forces after layer-by-layer printing create stress differences, leading to deformation of the printed workpiece and defects such as localized breakage. This is especially true when the overall exposure light intensity is high, making breakage more likely.

[0004] Additionally, in some cases, excessive exposure intensity on the lower surface of the printed model can increase the transmission effect in 3D printing, causing unnecessary dimensional deviations. Furthermore, if there are intricate and complex patterns at the image edges, excessively bright nearby pixels may interfere with each other during exposure, resulting in the loss of surface details after curing.

[0005] It is evident that existing area array photopolymerization 3D printing technology still has many shortcomings, especially in terms of exposure intensity control, there is still room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a printing method and printing system for three-dimensional printing models, which can selectively control the exposure intensity of different areas, thereby improving the printing effect of three-dimensional printing.

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a method for printing a 3D printed model. The method includes the following steps: obtaining an original model file containing parameters of the model to be printed; layering the model to obtain a slice file containing multiple printing slices of the model; configuring preset parameters for at least one boundary in one or more printing slices, wherein the at least one boundary is a closed curve and the printing slice is divided into at least two regions by the boundary; configuring the exposure intensity for each region; and outputting a model printing file containing preset parameters for the model and the boundary, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in one or more printing slices.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing method further includes parameters for configuring a first boundary and a second boundary in one or more printing slices. The first boundary and the second boundary are consistent with the shape of the outer edge and are arranged radially inward along the outer edge. The one or more printing slices are divided into three regions by the first boundary and the second boundary. A first region is formed between the first boundary and the outer edge, a second region is formed between the first boundary and the second boundary, and a third region is formed inside the second boundary. The exposure light intensity corresponding to the second region is higher than the exposure light intensity corresponding to the first region and the third region.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the radial widths of the first region and the radial widths of the second region are consistent.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​the third region is greater than the area of ​​the first region and the area of ​​the second region.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, any point on any of the boundaries has a distance from the outer edge of the printed slice, and the distance is not zero.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing method further includes configuring preset parameters of the bottom shell and configuring the exposure intensity of the bottom shell. The bottom shell is the last to Nth layers of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where N is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the bottom shell and the exposure intensity corresponding to the bottom shell.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing method further includes configuring preset parameters of the top cover and configuring the exposure intensity of the top cover. The top cover is the first positive layer to the nth positive layer of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where n is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the top cover and the exposure intensity corresponding to the top cover.

[0014] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention also provides a three-dimensional model printing system, comprising: a memory for storing instructions executable by a processor; and a processor for executing the instructions to implement the aforementioned three-dimensional model printing method.

[0015] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention also provides a computer-readable medium storing computer program code, which, when executed by a processor, implements the above-mentioned method for printing three-dimensional models.

[0016] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention also provides a printing system for a 3D printed model, comprising: a model design module configured to acquire an original model file containing preset parameters of the model to be printed; the model design module further configured to layer the model to obtain a slice file containing multiple printing slices of the model; a boundary design module configured to configure preset parameters for at least one boundary in one or more printing slices, wherein the at least one boundary is a closed curve and the printing slice is divided into at least two regions by the boundary; a file generation module configured to output a model printing file containing preset parameters of the model and the boundary, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in one or more printing slices; and a printing module configured to receive the model printing file and print the model, wherein during printing, the regions are exposed with their respective corresponding exposure intensities.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the boundary design module is further adapted to configure any point on any boundary to have a distance from the outer edge of the printed slice, and the distance is not zero.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing system further includes a bottom shell design module adapted to configure preset parameters of the bottom shell, and a light intensity configuration module adapted to configure the exposure light intensity of the bottom shell. The bottom shell is the last to Nth layers of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where N is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the bottom shell and the exposure light intensity corresponding to the bottom shell.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing system further includes a top cover design module adapted to configure preset parameters of the top cover, and a light intensity configuration module adapted to configure the exposure light intensity of the top cover. The top cover is the first positive layer to the nth positive layer of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where n is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the top cover and the exposure light intensity corresponding to the top cover.

[0020] By employing the above technical solutions, this invention, compared with existing technologies, divides the model into regions by slicing one or more layers and exposing different regions with different light intensities. Each region can achieve its own unique technical effects by customizing the light intensity, thereby increasing the model's strength, improving deformation or breakage issues, while maintaining the model's details. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this application; they are incorporated into and constitute a part of this application. The drawings illustrate embodiments of this application and, together with this specification, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for printing a three-dimensional printed model according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2A-2D These are, respectively, a perspective view, a side view, a longitudinal section view, and a cross-sectional view of a drum-shaped model printed using a three-dimensional printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 3A-3D These are, respectively, a perspective view, a side view, a longitudinal section view, and a cross-sectional view of a drum-shaped model in a method for printing a three-dimensional model according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figures 4A-4B These are, respectively, a longitudinal section diagram and a cross-sectional diagram of a model printed using a three-dimensional printing model method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a system block diagram of a printing system for a three-dimensional printing model according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 6 This is a system block diagram of a printing system for a three-dimensional printing model according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some examples or embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, these drawings can be applied to other similar scenarios without creative effort. Unless obvious from the context or otherwise specified, the same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same structures or operations.

[0023] As indicated in this application and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" are not specifically singular and may include plural forms. Generally speaking, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of explicitly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0024] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0025] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0026] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0027] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, these terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application. In addition, although the terminology used in this application is selected from commonly known and used terms, some terms mentioned in this application's specification may have been chosen by the applicant according to his or her judgment, and their detailed meanings are explained in the relevant sections of this description. Moreover, this application should be understood not only through the actual terms used, but also through the meaning implied by each term.

[0028] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as "on another component," "connected to another component," "coupled to another component," or "in contact with another component," it can be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or in contact with that other component, or there may be an intervening component. In contrast, when a component is referred to as "directly on another component," "directly connected to," "directly coupled to," or "directly in contact with" another component, there is no intervening component. Similarly, when a first component is referred to as "electrically contacting" or "electrically coupled to" a second component, there is an electrical path between the first and second components that allows current to flow. This electrical path may include capacitors, coupled inductors, and / or other components that allow current to flow, even if there is no direct contact between the conductive components.

[0029] like Figure 1 The diagram shown is a flowchart of a three-dimensional printing model printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this application... Figure 1 Flowcharts are used to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed in exact order. Instead, various steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations may be added to these processes, or one or more steps may be removed from them.

[0030] In addition, such as Figure 2A-2D The figures shown are a perspective view, a side view, a longitudinal section layered diagram, and a cross-sectional layered diagram of a drum-shaped model according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 3A-3D The figures shown are a perspective view, a side view, a longitudinal section layered diagram, and a cross-sectional layered diagram of a drum-shaped model according to another embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 1 ,as well as Figure 2A-3D The printing method of the three-dimensional model of the present invention is described herein, wherein the same parts are referred to by the same reference numerals.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a three-dimensional printing model printing method 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1As shown, the printing method 100 for the 3D printed model includes the following steps.

[0032] Step 110 involves obtaining the original model file, which contains preset parameters for the model to be printed. For example, preset parameters include, but are not limited to, the model's outline, position, material, bottom shape, and / or structural requirements.

[0033] Step 120 involves layering the model to obtain a slice file, which contains multiple printed slices of the model.

[0034] Step 130 configures preset parameters for at least one boundary in one or more layers of a multi-layer printed slice. More specifically, the boundary is a closed curve, and the printed slice is divided into at least two regions by the boundary, wherein any point on any boundary has a non-zero distance from the outer edge of the printed slice.

[0035] Step 140 involves configuring the exposure intensity for each area; Step 150 outputs the model print file. This model print file contains preset parameters for the model and boundaries, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in one or more printed slices.

[0036] To better illustrate the printing method 100 described above, a more detailed explanation will be given below using a drum-shaped model printed using the printing method 100 described above. Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the drum-shaped model 200A in this embodiment. Figure 2B This is a side view of the drum-shaped model 200A. (Refer to reference.) Figure 2A-2B As shown, the drum-shaped model 200A in this embodiment has a symmetrical shape, with the top and bottom parallel and the top and bottom being narrower while the middle is wider.

[0037] Figure 2C It is a drum-shaped model 200A along the like Figure 2B The diagram shows a longitudinal section along the AA direction. According to... Figure 2C As can be seen, in this embodiment, as Figure 2A After printing, the drum-shaped model 200A is internally divided into three parts: a first region 210, a second region 220, and a third region 230. These regions respectively represent the outer skin, middle layer, and core of the drum-shaped model 200A after printing. More specifically... Figure 2CThe drum-shaped model 200A in this embodiment is also shown to have an outer edge 201 (which also constitutes the outermost part of the first region 210), a first boundary 202 (i.e., the interface between the first region 210 and the second region 220), and a second boundary 203 (i.e., the interface between the second region 220 and the third region 230). In this embodiment, the above-mentioned different regions of the model 200A can be customized to have different light intensities, thereby giving each region different technical effects.

[0038] More specifically, in the embodiment where the drum-shaped model 200A is located, the model 200A can be printed in a horizontal layered manner. Figure 2D It is a drum-shaped model 200A along the like Figure 2B The schematic diagram shown is a cross-sectional view along the BB direction, and also a schematic diagram of one of the printed slices. (Reference) Figure 2D As shown, in this embodiment, the drum-shaped model 200A is layered and printed in a horizontally layered manner. At least one layer has a first boundary 202 and a second boundary 203, thereby forming a first region 210, a second region 220, and a third region 230. In this embodiment, the same processing is performed on each printed slice, thus forming the overall shape of the model 200A after printing as shown... Figure 2C The first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230 are shown. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in some other embodiments of the present invention, the above processing may be performed on one or any number of printing slices of the model to be printed, and the present invention does not limit this.

[0039] In actual operation, for practical reasons, different areas need to achieve different printing effects. For example, in this embodiment, the second area 220 of the drum-shaped model 200A needs to be harder than the first area 210 and the third area 230, so as to provide stronger support for the drum-shaped model 200A and increase the strength and reliability of the model.

[0040] As mentioned above, in such Figures 2A-2D In the embodiment shown, as Figure 1 Step 140, as shown, specifically involves individually configuring the exposure intensity of the first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230. During the exposure of the printed slices of the model, the first region 210 uses a reduced exposure intensity, the second region 220 uses a strengthened exposure intensity, and the third region 230 uses a reduced exposure intensity. Exemplarily, in some embodiments of the present invention, the exposure intensity of different regions can not only be manually customized but also automatically configured according to preset conditions stored in the system.

[0041] The following technical effects can be achieved by using the above-mentioned method of customizing exposure intensity: (1) The first region 210 is exposed with a weaker light intensity, which can improve the transmission effect and the problem of loss of details caused by overexposure of adjacent pixels, thereby maintaining the detailed features of the model surface, and at the same time, the model size can be finely adjusted. (2) The second region 220 is exposed with a stronger light intensity, which can avoid the problem of insufficient hardness of the printed product caused by the weakening of the internal light intensity, and enhance the strength and reliability of the model; (3) The third region 230 uses a weaker light intensity for exposure, which can improve the shrinkage effect of the consumable during curing to a certain extent, thereby improving the problem of shape deformation and making it less prone to breakage.

[0042] It needs to be emphasized that, according to Figures 2C-2D It can also be clearly seen that in this embodiment, both the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203 are closed curves, and the printed slice is divided into three regions by the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203, namely the first region 210, the second region 220 and the third region 230. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present invention, there may be more boundaries, thereby obtaining more divided regions on each layer slice.

[0043] More specifically, adopting, such as Figures 2A-2D In the illustrated embodiments, as Figure 1 A more specific implementation of step 130 is that each layer in the multi-layer printed slice is configured with two preset parameters, boundaries 202 and 203. Based on this, the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203 are identical in shape to the outer edge 201 and are arranged radially inward along the outer edge, with one or more layers of printed slices referencing... Figure 2D The area is divided into three regions by the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203. The first region 210 is formed between the first boundary 202 and the outer edge 201, the second region 220 is formed between the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203, and the third region 230 is formed within the second boundary 203. The exposure intensity of the second region 220 is higher than that of the first region 210 and the third region 230.

[0044] exist Figures 2A-2D In the illustrated embodiment, the first region 210 has a uniform radial width, and the second region 220 has a uniform radial width. Furthermore, the area of ​​the third region 230 is larger than the area of ​​the first region 210 and the area of ​​the second region 220. Based on this, referring to... Figure 2DAs shown, in this embodiment, the first region 210 and the second region 220 of the drum-shaped model 200A are annular, and the third region 230 is circular; the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203 have the same shape as the outer edge 201, both being circular, and the three are distributed in concentric circles. This regular arrangement is more conducive to controlling the division of regions and the configuration of different exposure intensities in each layer of the model slice, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments of the present invention, boundaries can be independently configured for one or more slices according to the actual shape of the model and different printing requirements, and their shapes may differ from the outer edge of the printed slice.

[0045] In this embodiment, in order to print the drum-shaped model 200A, wherein... Figure 1 More specifically, step 130 can be configured by setting the center position and diameter of the circle formed by the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203. In this embodiment, the outer edge 201, the first boundary 202, and the second boundary 203 are all circles, i.e., closed curves. Furthermore, since the three are concentrically distributed, there are no intersection points. Comparing the circles formed by the three: the center positions of the three are the same, and the diameter of the outer edge 201 > the diameter of the first boundary 202 > the diameter of the second boundary 203.

[0046] In this embodiment, the second region 220 of the drum-shaped model 200A needs to be harder than the first region 210 and the third region 230, so as to provide stronger support for the drum-shaped model and increase the strength and reliability of the model.

[0047] It is understandable that, such as Figures 2A-2D As shown, this is only for the purpose of using the present invention. Figure 1 The illustrated printing method 100 is an embodiment of a model printed by this method, but the invention is not limited to the shape of the drum-shaped model 200A. Furthermore, the method of layering the model in step 120 and the method of configuring the preset parameters for the boundaries in step 130 of printing method 100 are also not limited to... Figures 2A-2DThe methods shown are limited. For example, in other embodiments of the present invention, the exposure intensity of the first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230 may be set differently from those described above, depending on actual needs. This may differ from the setting where the exposure intensity of the second region 220 is greater than that of the first region 210 and the third region 230. The present invention does not impose specific limitations on their numerical relationships. Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the shapes of the first boundary 202 and the second boundary 203 are inconsistent with the outer edge 201. Based on this, in other embodiments of the present invention, the radial width of the first region 210 may vary, and the radial width of the second region 220 may also vary. Therefore, the areas of the first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230 may be set according to actual needs, and the present invention does not impose specific limitations on their numerical relationships.

[0048] In another embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 1 Based on the printing method 100 shown, it further includes configuring preset parameters for the base shell and configuring the exposure intensity for the base shell. After printing, the base shell is placed directly below the bottommost printed slice in the multi-layer printing process. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters for the base shell and the corresponding exposure intensity. On the other hand, preferably, in the case of... Figure 1 Based on the printing method 100 shown, it also includes configuring the preset parameters of the top cover and configuring the exposure intensity of the top cover. After printing, the top cover is closely attached to the top of the uppermost printing slice in the multi-layer printing slice. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the top cover and the corresponding exposure intensity of the top cover.

[0049] For example, Figure 3A This is a perspective view of another drum-shaped model 200B printed using this method in another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3B This is a side view of the drum-shaped model 200B. (Refer to reference.) Figures 3A-3B As shown, the drum-shaped model 300B in this embodiment has a symmetrical shape, with the top and bottom parallel, and the top and bottom being narrower while the middle is wider. In addition, this drum-shaped model 200B, after printing, also has a bottom shell 240 and a top cover 250. In... Figure 1 Based on the printing method 100 shown, in order to print the drum-shaped model 200B, the method further includes configuring preset parameters of the bottom shell 240 and configuring the exposure intensity of the bottom shell 240. The bottom shell 240 is the last to Nth layers of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where N is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the bottom shell 240 and the exposure intensity corresponding to the bottom shell 240.

[0050] Preferably, in the present invention as follows Figure 3BIn the embodiment shown, based on the printing method 100, the method further includes configuring preset parameters of the upper cover 250 and configuring the exposure intensity of the upper cover 250. The upper cover 250 is the first positive layer to the nth positive layer of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where n is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the upper cover 250 and the exposure intensity corresponding to the upper cover 250.

[0051] Specifically, the adoption of separate custom light intensity designs for the bottom shell and top cover allows for better technical effects. For example, reducing the illuminance (light intensity) of the bottom shell can reduce model size distortion caused by bottom transmission; while the illuminance (light intensity) of the top cover can be customized separately, which can effectively avoid concentric ring patterns on the top of the model after printing in some scenarios due to the use of different light intensities in multiple areas inside and outside the model slices.

[0052] To be more specific, Figure 3C This is a schematic diagram of the longitudinal section of the drum-shaped model 200B.

[0053] like Figure 3C As shown, the drum-shaped model 200B in this embodiment, after printing, has five parts arranged sequentially from the outside in: a first region 210, a second region 220, a third region 230, a bottom shell 240, and a top cover 250. The first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230 respectively represent the outer skin of the sidewall, the middle layer, and the core. The outermost edge of the first region 210 has an outer edge 201; the interface between the first region 210 and the second region 220 is a second boundary 202; and the interface between the second region 220 and the third region 230 is a second boundary 203.

[0054] More clearly, as Figure 3D The image shown is a cross-sectional view of the drum-shaped model 200B, which is also one of the printed slices of the drum-shaped model 200B during layer printing. (Reference) Figure 3D As shown, the drum-shaped model 200B in this embodiment has a first boundary 202 and a second boundary 203 when printing this layer. These two boundaries divide the printed slice of this layer into a first region 210, a second region 220, and a third region arranged sequentially from the outside in. In actual operation, for practical considerations, different parts need to achieve different printing effects. For example, in the drum-shaped model 200B of this embodiment, the hardness of the layer needs to be stronger than the outer skin and core of the sidewalls, thereby providing stronger support for the drum-shaped model and increasing the model's strength and reliability. Other details regarding the above boundaries and different regions can be found in the above description. Figures 2A-2D The explanations already given will not be repeated here.

[0055] Specifically, refer to Figure 3DAs shown, the areas containing the bottom shell 240 and the top cover 250 can be independently configured with varying light intensity. For example, this light intensity can be manually customized or automatically configured based on preset conditions stored in the system.

[0056] It needs to be emphasized that, such as Figures 3A-3D The illustration shown is merely one preferred embodiment of the present invention, which includes both a bottom shell 240 and a top cover 250. In other embodiments of the present invention, a method for printing a 3D printed model may be configured by configuring only the top cover and its preset parameters, or only the bottom shell and its preset parameters, depending on the actual needs of the model being printed. The present invention does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0057] To further illustrate the variations of the bottom shell 240 and the top cover 250 in different printed models Figures 4A-4B The diagrams show a longitudinal section and a cross-sectional view of a model printed using a method for printing a 3D model according to an embodiment of the present invention, in conjunction with reference to [reference needed]. Figures 4A-4B As shown, in one embodiment of the invention, the top and bottom of the printed model are not as regular and symmetrical as in model 200B. Figure 4A In the illustrated embodiment, model 200C presents an inverted "T" shape. Model 200C is divided into two preset regions, left and right, bounded by the dashed line X in the figure. Within each preset region, the last to Nth layers of the multi-layer printed slices are defined as the bottom shell 240, where N is an integer greater than 1. Additionally, the first to nth layers of the multi-layer printed slices in each region are also defined as the top cover, where n is an integer greater than 1.

[0058] Understandably, in Figure 4A In the middle section of model 200C, its cross-section can still be constructed in the manner described above, as follows: Figure 4B The diagram shows layers from the outside in, namely, the first region 210, the second region 220, and the third region 230. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, the light intensity of each of the first region 210, the second region 220, the third region 230, the upper cover 250, and the bottom shell 240 is customized to achieve different technical effects. For details, please refer to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0059] It should be noted that when the model has both a bottom shell 240 and a top cover 250, the number of layers n and N can be the same or different. That is, the number of layers N of the bottom shell 240 and the number of layers n of the top cover 250 can be arbitrarily selected according to the actual use scenario. This application does not impose any specific restrictions on this.

[0060] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a printing system 300 for a three-dimensional printing model. Figure 5 A system block diagram of the printing system 300 for the 3D printed model in this embodiment is shown. According to... Figure 5 The 3D printing system 300 may include a model design module 310, a boundary design module 320, a light intensity configuration module 330, a file generation module 340, and a printing module 350. The model design module 310 is configured to acquire the original model file, which contains preset parameters of the model to be printed. These parameters include, but are not limited to, the model's outline, position, material, bottom shape, and / or structural requirements. The model design module is also configured to layer the model to obtain slice files, which contain multiple printing slices of the model. The boundary design module 320 is configured to configure preset parameters for at least one boundary in one or more printing slices. At least one boundary is a closed curve, and the printing slice is divided into at least two regions by the boundary. Preferably, in some embodiments of the present invention, any point on any boundary has a distance from the outer edge of the printing slice, and this distance is not zero. The light intensity configuration module 330 is adapted to configure the corresponding exposure light intensity for each region. The light intensity of different regions can be manually customized or automatically configured according to preset conditions stored in the system. The file generation module 340 is configured to output a model print file, which contains preset parameters for the model and boundaries, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in one or more print slices. The printing module 350 is configured to receive the model print file and print the model, exposing each region to its corresponding exposure intensity during printing.

[0061] Another embodiment of the present invention also proposes a three-dimensional printing system having a memory for storing instructions executable by a processor; and a processor for executing the instructions to implement the three-dimensional printing method of the present invention. For example, it could be as described above. Figure 1 The 3D printing method 100 is shown.

[0062] Figure 6 A system block diagram of the 3D printing system 400 in this embodiment is shown. According to... Figure 6 The 3D printing system 400 may include an internal communication bus 410, a processor 420, a read-only memory (ROM) 430, a random access memory (RAM) 440, and a communication port 450. When used on a computer, the 3D printing system 400 may also include a hard disk 460.

[0063] The internal communication bus 410 enables data communication between components of the 3D printing system 400. The processor 420 can make judgments and issue prompts. In some embodiments, the processor 420 may consist of one or more processors. The communication port 450 enables data communication between the 3D printing system 400 and external systems. In some embodiments, the 3D printing system 400 can send and receive information and data from a network via the communication port 450.

[0064] The 3D printing system 400 may also include different types of program storage units and data storage units, such as a hard disk 460, read-only memory (ROM) 430, and random access memory (RAM) 440, capable of storing various data files used for computer processing and / or communication, as well as possible program instructions executed by the processor 420. The processor executes these instructions to implement the main part of the method. The results of the processor processing are transmitted to the user equipment via a communication port and displayed on the user interface.

[0065] Another aspect of the present invention provides a computer-readable medium storing computer program code, which, when executed by a processor, implements the 3D printing method of the present invention. For example, it could be as described above. Figure 1 Methods for printing 3D models.

[0066] The basic concepts have been described above. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, the above disclosure is merely illustrative and does not constitute a limitation of this application. Although not explicitly stated herein, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements, and corrections to this application. Such modifications, improvements, and corrections are suggested in this application, and therefore remain within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this application.

[0067] Furthermore, this application uses specific terms to describe embodiments of the application. For example, "an embodiment," "one embodiment," and / or "some embodiments" refer to a particular feature, structure, or characteristic related to at least one embodiment of the application. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that "an embodiment," "one embodiment," or "an alternative embodiment" mentioned twice or more in different locations in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain features, structures, or characteristics in one or more embodiments of the application can be appropriately combined.

[0068] Some aspects of this application can be executed entirely by hardware, entirely by software (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or by a combination of hardware and software. The aforementioned hardware or software may be referred to as a "data block," "module," "engine," "unit," "component," or "system." The processor may be one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DAPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, aspects of this application may manifest as computer products residing in one or more computer-readable media, including computer-readable program code. For example, computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, etc.), optical discs (e.g., compressed CDs, digital multifunction DVDs, etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks, key drives, etc.).

[0069] A computer-readable medium may contain a propagated data signal containing computer program code, for example, on baseband or as part of a carrier wave. This propagated signal may take various forms, including electromagnetic, optical, and so on, or suitable combinations thereof. A computer-readable medium can be any computer-readable medium other than a computer-readable storage medium, which can be connected to an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device to enable communication, propagation, or transmission of a program for use. The program code located on the computer-readable medium can be propagated through any suitable medium, including radio, cable, fiber optic cable, radio frequency signals, or similar media, or any combination of the above media.

[0070] Similarly, it should be noted that, in order to simplify the description of the present application and thus aid in the understanding of one or more embodiments of the invention, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application sometimes combines multiple features into a single embodiment, drawing, or description thereof. However, this disclosure method does not imply that the subject matter of the application requires more features than those mentioned in the claims. In fact, the embodiments contain fewer features than all the features of the single embodiments disclosed above.

[0071] In some embodiments, numbers describing the quantity of components and attributes are used. It should be understood that such numbers used in the description of embodiments are modified in some examples with the terms "approximately," "approximately," or "generally." Unless otherwise stated, "approximately," "approximately," or "generally" indicates that the numbers are allowed to vary by ±20%. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters used in the specification and claims are approximate values, which may be changed depending on the characteristics required by individual embodiments. In some embodiments, numerical parameters should take into account specified significant digits and employ a general method of digit reservation. Although the numerical ranges and parameters used to confirm their breadth of scope in some embodiments of this application are approximate values, in specific embodiments, such values ​​are set as precisely as feasible.

[0072] Although this application has been described with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art should recognize that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate this application, and various equivalent changes or substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, any changes or modifications to the above embodiments within the essential spirit of this application will fall within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A method for printing a three-dimensional printing model, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Obtain the original model file, which contains preset parameters of the model to be printed; The model is layered to obtain a slice file, which contains multiple printed slices of the model. The parameters of a first boundary and a second boundary are configured in one or more layers of the multilayer printed slice. The first boundary and the second boundary are consistent with the outer edge shape of the printed slice and are arranged radially inward along the outer edge. The one or more layers of printed slice are divided into three regions by the first boundary and the second boundary. A first region is formed between the first boundary and the outer edge, a second region is formed between the first boundary and the second boundary, and a third region is formed inside the second boundary. The exposure intensity corresponding to the second region is higher than the exposure intensity corresponding to the first region and the third region. The area of ​​the third region is larger than the area of ​​the first region and the area of ​​the second region, and the hardness of the second region is stronger than that of the first region and the third region. Configure the exposure intensity for each of the regions; and Output a model print file, which includes preset parameters for the model and the boundary, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in the one or more printed slices; The feature is that it further includes configuring preset parameters for the bottom shell and configuring a reduced exposure intensity for the bottom shell, wherein the bottom shell is the last to Nth layers of a multi-layer printing slice of a preset area of ​​the model, where N is an integer greater than 1, and the model printing file also includes the preset parameters for the bottom shell and the reduced exposure intensity corresponding to the bottom shell.

2. The printing method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The radial widths of the first region and the second region are consistent.

3. The printing method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, There is a distance between any point on any of the aforementioned boundaries and the outer edge of the printed slice, and the distance is not zero.

4. The printing method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes configuring preset parameters for the top cover and configuring the exposure intensity for the top cover. The top cover is the first positive layer to the nth positive layer of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where n is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the top cover and the exposure intensity corresponding to the top cover.

5. A printing system for a three-dimensional printing model, characterized in that, include: The model design module is configured to obtain the original model file, which contains preset parameters of the model to be printed. The model design module is also configured to layer the model to obtain a slice file, which contains multiple printing slices of the model. The boundary design module is configured to configure parameters for a first boundary and a second boundary in one or more printed slices. The first boundary and the second boundary are consistent with the outer edge shape of the printed slice and are arranged radially inward along the outer edge. The one or more printed slices are divided into three regions by the first boundary and the second boundary. A first region is formed between the first boundary and the outer edge, a second region is formed between the first boundary and the second boundary, and a third region is formed inside the second boundary. The exposure intensity corresponding to the second region is higher than the exposure intensity corresponding to the first region and the third region. The area of ​​the third region is larger than the area of ​​the first region and the area of ​​the second region. The light intensity configuration module is adapted to configure the corresponding exposure light intensity for each of the regions. The file generation module is configured to output a model printing file, which includes preset parameters for the model and the boundary, as well as the exposure intensity corresponding to each region in one or more printed slices; and The printing module is configured to receive the model printing file and print the model, wherein during printing, the regions are exposed with their respective corresponding exposure light intensities; The feature is that it further includes a bottom shell design module, which is suitable for configuring preset parameters of the bottom shell, and the light intensity configuration module is suitable for configuring a reduced exposure light intensity for the bottom shell. The bottom shell is the last to Nth layers of a multi-layer printing slice of a preset area of ​​the model, where N is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the bottom shell and the reduced exposure light intensity corresponding to the bottom shell.

6. The printing system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The boundary design module is also adapted to configure any point on any boundary to have a distance from the outer edge of the printed slice, and the distance is not zero.

7. The printing system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a top cover design module, which is suitable for configuring the preset parameters of the top cover, and the light intensity configuration module is suitable for configuring the exposure light intensity of the top cover. The top cover is the first positive layer to the nth positive layer of the multi-layer printing slice of the preset area of ​​the model, where n is an integer greater than 1. The model printing file also includes the preset parameters of the top cover and the exposure light intensity corresponding to the top cover.

8. A printing system for a three-dimensional model, comprising: Memory is used to store instructions that can be executed by the processor; and a processor for executing the instructions to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-4.

9. A computer-readable medium storing computer program code that, when executed by a processor, implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 1-4.

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