Molding apparatus, maintenance method of molding apparatus, and molding method

Abstract

A structure of a modeling device suitable for molding a molded article to be colored is appropriately realized. A modeling device (10) which performs modeling to manufacture a molded article (50) which is at least partially colored, is provided with a plurality of head units each having a plurality of nozzle rows which respectively eject inks supplied from an ink container via mutually different ink supply paths, and a carriage (202) which holds, as the plurality of head units, a head unit (204a) which is a first head unit and a head unit (204b) which is a second head unit, the head unit (204a) having a plurality of nozzle rows which respectively eject inks of mutually different colors, and the head unit (204b) having a plurality of nozzle rows which respectively eject inks different from the inks of mutually different colors ejected by the head unit (204a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a molding device, a method for maintaining the molding device, and a molding method. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a modeling device (3D printer) that uses an inkjet head to create shapes is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In such a modeling device, shapes are created by stacking multiple layers of ink formed using the inkjet head, thereby using a layer-by-layer modeling method.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-071282 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] When using an inkjet printhead to create shaped objects, it is possible to create objects colored in various colors by using multiple colors of colored ink. However, in this case, as the number of ink colors used increases, problems arise such as the increased size and weight of the carriage used to hold the printhead. Therefore, it has been desirable to implement a suitable structure for creating colored objects. Thus, the object of the present invention is to provide a shaping apparatus, a method for maintaining the shaping apparatus, and a shaping method that solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] The inventors of this application considered using a printhead unit that ejects multiple types of ink as a structure for ink ejection in a molding device, instead of using a separate printhead structure for each type of ink (e.g., each color, each purpose). With this configuration, compared to using multiple separate printheads for each type of ink, it is possible to appropriately achieve miniaturization and weight reduction of the carriage. However, in this case, during maintenance of the molding device, the printhead unit corresponding to each type of ink becomes a replacement component. Moreover, in this case, if the printhead unit cannot properly eject some types of ink, it is necessary to replace the printhead unit even if the ejection of other inks is not problematic. Furthermore, as a result, the replacement cost of components may increase significantly.

[0010] Regarding this point, the inventors of this application focused on the following aspects: among the various inks ejected from a single printhead unit, the portion most closely related to the ink consumed more during molding is likely to require replacement at an earlier stage. Furthermore, for the various inks ejected from a single printhead unit, selection is considered to minimize the difference in ink consumption during molding. Additionally, as a structure to achieve this selection, multiple printhead units are considered, with the first printhead unit ejecting the ink with relatively lower consumption, and the second printhead unit ejecting the other inks. With this configuration, the difference in consumption among the various inks ejected from a single printhead unit can be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, in this case, it is assumed that the portions of the same printhead unit corresponding to each ink require replacement at approximately the same time. Therefore, with this configuration, it is less likely that the printhead unit will need to be replaced only when a portion of it has deteriorated.

[0011] Furthermore, when creating a colored object through shaping, the coloring area is typically formed only on the surface of the object. Moreover, in this case, the consumption of colored ink (chromatic ink) used to form the coloring area is significantly reduced compared to the ink used for forming, for example, the interior of the object. Therefore, in this case, it is possible to spray the colored ink used for forming the coloring area from the first nozzle unit and spray other inks from the second nozzle unit. With this configuration, the nozzle units can be replaced more easily when using them. Furthermore, this allows for a suitable structure for shaping devices that can produce colored objects.

[0012] Furthermore, through further in-depth research, the inventors of this application discovered the features required to achieve such an effect and completed the present invention. To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention is a shaping device that creates at least partially colored shapes by layering ink layers. The shaping device comprises: a plurality of nozzle units that eject ink from a plurality of nozzle arrays; and a carriage that holds the plurality of nozzle units, each nozzle unit having a plurality of nozzle arrays that eject ink supplied from an ink container via different ink supply paths. The carriage holds a first nozzle unit and a second nozzle unit as the plurality of nozzle units. The first nozzle unit has a plurality of nozzle arrays that eject colored inks of different colors, and the second nozzle unit has a plurality of nozzle arrays that eject inks different from the colored inks ejected by the first nozzle unit.

[0013] With this configuration, the carriage can be appropriately miniaturized and lightweight by using the nozzle unit. Furthermore, by spraying multiple colors of colored ink from the nozzle array of the first nozzle unit and other inks from the nozzle array of the second nozzle unit, the difference in ink consumption between nozzles sprayed from the same nozzle unit can be appropriately reduced. Additionally, this can appropriately prevent excessive increases in replacement costs of components in the shaping device due to nozzle unit replacements. Therefore, with this configuration, a suitable structure for shaping objects to be colored can be achieved.

[0014] In this structure, the molding device supplies ink to the printhead unit from multiple ink containers, each storing ink. In this case, each nozzle array in the printhead unit receives ink from a specific ink container. Furthermore, each printhead unit can be considered as a replacement unit that can be replaced collectively during repair or maintenance. Additionally, in this case, the multiple nozzle arrays in a single printhead unit can be integrally formed in one component. Furthermore, in each printhead unit, the multiple nozzle arrays can be arranged in a predetermined positional relationship. With this configuration, the printhead units can be appropriately used in the molding device.

[0015] In this structure, the shaping device shapes an object having a light-reflecting area and a colored area. In this case, the light-reflecting area is formed using ink of a light-reflective color. The colored area is formed outside the light-reflecting area using colored ink and transparent ink of various colors ejected by the first nozzle unit. In this case, the multiple nozzle rows of the first nozzle unit eject each color of the colored ink used to form the colored area. Furthermore, the second nozzle unit has at least a portion of the multiple nozzle rows, including a nozzle row for ejecting light-reflective ink, a nozzle row for ejecting transparent ink, and a nozzle row for ejecting ink that forms a support layer. For the transparent ink, colorless and transparent ink, etc., can be considered. For the support layer, a structure that supports at least a portion of the object during shaping can be considered.

[0016] With this configuration, the colored object can be appropriately shaped. Furthermore, by concentrating the nozzle array for the colored ink used to form the colored area into the first printhead unit, the difference in consumption for multiple inks ejected from a single printhead unit can be appropriately reduced. In this case, the colored area is preferably formed only by multiple colors of colored ink ejected from the first printhead unit and transparent ink ejected from the second printhead unit. With this configuration, all nozzle arrays for the colored ink, which consumes less ink during shaping, can be concentrated in the first printhead unit. Furthermore, this allows for a more appropriate reduction in the difference in consumption for multiple inks ejected from a single printhead unit.

[0017] Furthermore, in this structure, the shaping device may also include a main scanning drive unit and a planarization component. The main scanning drive unit can be a structure that causes multiple printhead units to perform a main scanning action while ejecting ink along a predetermined main scanning direction. The planarization component can be a structure with a planarization roller that planarizes the ink layer. In this case, the main scanning drive unit includes a guide member that guides the carriage to move along the main scanning direction and a drive mechanism that moves the carriage along the guide member. Moreover, the planarization component is held outside the carriage by the guide member in a manner that allows it to move along the main scanning direction. With this configuration, by providing a planarization component outside the carriage, the carriage can be more appropriately miniaturized and lightweight. As the guide member, a guide rail, which is a track-like guide member, can be appropriately used.

[0018] Furthermore, when using the molding apparatus with the above-described structure, the features of the present invention can also be considered as features of a maintenance method for the molding apparatus. In this case, the maintenance method for the molding apparatus is characterized by prompting the user to replace each printhead unit based on the operating frequency of the molding apparatus, and by making the relationship between the operating frequency and the replacement timing different for the first and second printhead units, thereby prompting the user to replace each printhead unit in such a way that the second printhead unit is replaced more frequently than the first printhead unit. With this configuration, the second printhead unit, which emits more ink, can be replaced appropriately with a shorter cycle than the first printhead unit. In addition, this allows for more appropriate maintenance of the molding apparatus based on the intended use of the ink emitted from each printhead unit. Furthermore, the features of the present invention can also be considered as features of an invention for a molding method for manufacturing shaped objects using the molding apparatus with the above-described structure. In this case, the same effects as described above can also be obtained. Furthermore, in this case, the molding method can also be considered as a method for manufacturing shaped objects.

[0019] The effects of the invention

[0020] According to the present invention, a structure suitable for shaping an object that is colored can be appropriately realized. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This figure illustrates a modeling device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (a) represents an example of the structure of the main part of the modeling device 10. Figure 1 (b) represents an example of the structure of the nozzle 12 in the shaping device 10.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of a more specific structure of the nozzle 12. Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 (b) represents an example of a specific structure of the nozzle 12.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a shaped object 50 manufactured by using the shaping device 10.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram that further explains the main scanning drive unit 18 and the nozzle 12 in detail. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This figure illustrates a modeling device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (a) represents an example of the structure of the main part of the modeling device 10. Figure 1 (b) represents an example of the structure of the nozzle 12 in the shaping device 10. Figure 2 An example showing a more specific structure of the nozzle 12. Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 (b) is a partial exploded perspective view and bottom view showing an example of the specific structure of the nozzle 12 together with a portion of the main scanning drive unit 18 in the modeling device 10.

[0026] In this example, the modeling device 10 is a device (3D printer) that uses a layer-by-layer modeling method to create a three-dimensional object. It uses ink as the modeling material and forms the object by layering ink layers, thereby creating an object 50 that is at least partially colored. In this case, the object 50 can be considered a three-dimensional structure or the like. Alternatively, in this example, the modeling device 10 is a full-color modeling device capable of creating objects that are fully colored. It performs the modeling action of the object 50 based on data representing the object to be modeled, i.e., modeling data. In this case, the modeling device 10 receives the modeling data from a computer (control PC) that controls the operation of the modeling device 10.

[0027] Furthermore, as shown in the accompanying drawings, in this example, the molding apparatus 10 includes a printhead 12, a molding stage 14, multiple ink tanks 16, a main scanning drive unit 18, a molding stage drive unit 20, and a control unit 22. Except for the aspects described below, the molding apparatus 10 may have the same or identical structure as known molding apparatuses. More specifically, except for the aspects described below, the molding apparatus 10 may have the same or identical features as known molding apparatuses that use ink as molding material to spray out inkjet ink for molding. In addition to the structure shown in the drawings, the molding apparatus 10 may also include various structures required for molding the object 50, etc.

[0028] The printhead 12 is structured to eject the material of the molded object 50. In this example, ink is used as the material of the molded object 50, as explained above. The ink can be a functional liquid or the like. Alternatively, the ink can be a liquid ejected from the printhead 12 in an inkjet manner. In this example, the printhead 12 has an inkjet head that ejects ink in an inkjet manner, ejecting ultraviolet-curable ink (UV ink) that cures from a liquid state by ultraviolet light irradiation. In this case, ultraviolet-curable ink can be considered an example of ink that cures under specified conditions. In addition to the ink used as the material of the molded object 50, the printhead 12 also ejects ink used as the material of the support layer 52, i.e., support material ink. Thus, the printhead 12 forms a support layer 52 around the molded object 50 as needed. The support layer 52 can be considered a layered structure that supports at least a portion of the molded object 50 during molding. The support layer 52 is formed as needed during the molding of the molded object 50 and is removed after molding is completed. Furthermore, in this example, the printhead 12 serves as an inkjet head and has printhead units that eject various types of ink. In this case, the difference in ink type can also be considered as a difference in color or purpose. Additionally, for ease of explanation, in the following explanation, the case where the ink type is different, including cases where the ink purpose is different, will sometimes be referred to simply as a difference in ink color. The specific structure of the printhead 12 and the types of ink used in the printhead 12 will be described in more detail later.

[0029] The molding table 14 is a platform-shaped member that supports the model 50 being molded. It is positioned opposite the print head 12, and the model 50 and the support layer 52 are placed on the upper surface of the molding table 14. In this example, the molding table 14 has a structure that allows it to move along a sub-scanning direction (X direction in the figure) and a stacking direction (Z direction in the figure) pre-set in the molding apparatus 10, driven by the molding table drive unit 20. In this case, movement along the sub-scanning direction and the stacking direction can be considered as movement along directions parallel to the sub-scanning direction and the stacking direction. The stacking direction can be considered as the direction of the material being stacked in the stacking molding method. In this example, the stacking direction is orthogonal to the main scanning direction (Y direction in the figure) and the sub-scanning direction pre-set in the molding apparatus 10. Multiple ink tanks 16 are ink containers for storing ink. Known ink bottles or the like can be appropriately used for the ink tanks 16. In addition, in this example, multiple ink canisters 16 store ink of various colors ejected from the printhead 12, and ink of various colors is supplied from the outside of the printhead 12 to the printhead 12 according to the progress of the shaping action.

[0030] The main scan drive unit 18 is a drive unit that enables the printhead 12 to perform a main scan operation (Y scan). The main scan operation can be considered as an operation in which ink is ejected while moving along the main scan direction. In this case, enabling the printhead 12 to perform the main scan operation can also be considered as enabling the inkjet head (printhead unit) of the printhead 12 to perform the main scan operation. In this example, the main scan drive unit 18 enables the printhead 12 to perform the main scan operation by fixing the position of the molding stage 14 and moving the printhead 12 along the main scan direction. The specific structure of the main scan drive unit 18 will be described in more detail later.

[0031] The modeling stage drive unit 20 is a drive unit that moves the modeling stage 14, moving it in both the sub-scanning direction and the stacking direction. In this example, the modeling stage drive unit 20 moves the modeling stage 14 in the sub-scanning direction during the intervals of the main scan operation in the formation of one ink layer. This causes the printhead 12 to perform a sub-scanning operation (X-scan) relative to the model 50 being modeled in the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning operation can also be considered as a movement of a predetermined feed amount relative to the modeling stage 14 in the sub-scanning direction. Furthermore, after one ink layer is formed and before the formation of the next ink layer begins, the modeling stage drive unit 20 moves the modeling stage 14 in a direction away from the printhead 12 in the stacking direction. This causes the printhead 12 to perform a stacking direction scan operation (Z-scan) relative to the model 50 being modeled in the stacking direction. The layering direction scanning action can also be considered as adjusting the relative position of the model 50 and the nozzle 12 in the layering direction to match the progress of the modeling action.

[0032] The control unit 22 is a CPU-based structure of the shaping device 10, controlling the shaping action of the shaped object 50 by controlling various parts of the shaping device 10. In this case, the control unit 22 generates slice data, representing the cross-section of the shaped object 50 to be shaped, based on the shaped object data. Furthermore, during the formation of each ink layer constituting the shaped object 50, the operation of the print head 12 is controlled based on the slice data, causing the print head 12 to spray ink of each color used for shaping the shaped object 50. According to this example, the shaping of the shaped object 50 can be performed appropriately.

[0033] Next, the structure of the printhead 12 in the molding device 10 will be described in further detail. In this example, the printhead 12 has an ink ejection section 102, a planarization roller unit 104, and multiple light source units 106. The ink ejection section 102 is the part of the printhead 12 that ejects ink, and has a carriage 202 and multiple printhead units 204a and 204b.

[0034] The carriage 202 serves as a holding member for multiple printhead units 204a and 204b, holding each printhead unit 204a and 204b such that the ink ejection direction is toward the molding table 14. Furthermore, as detailed below, in the printhead 12 of this example, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 are disposed outside the carriage 202. Therefore, the carriage 202 can be considered as holding multiple printhead units 204a and 204b but not holding the structures of the planarization roller unit 104 (e.g., the planarization roller, etc.) or the structures of the light source unit 106. In this case, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 can be considered as units independently of the structures of the ink ejection section 102. In this example, the carriage 202 replaceably (removably) holds multiple printhead units 204a and 204b in a carriage base on the side opposite the molding table 14, forming the base portion of the carriage 202. Furthermore, the carriage 202 holds the multiple printhead units 204a and 204b in a manner that aligns their positions in the sub-scanning direction along the main scanning direction. In this case, the printhead units 204a and 204b can be considered to be arranged linearly so that the ink ejection area is the same in each main scanning operation.

[0035] Multiple printhead units 204a and 204b are an example of printheads that eject molding materials. In this example, the multiple printhead units 204a and 204b are inkjet heads that eject inks of various colors of different colors, and each has multiple nozzle rows 212 that eject ink supplied from an ink tank 16 via different ink supply paths. In this case, the different ink supply paths can also be considered as independent supply paths from the ink tank 16 to the printhead 12. Furthermore, in this example, the different supply paths for ink to each nozzle row 212 can also be considered as each nozzle row 212 receiving ink from different ink tanks 16. Additionally, the nozzle rows 212 can also be considered as rows of nozzles arranged with their positions staggered in a predetermined nozzle row direction. Furthermore, in this example, the multiple nozzle rows 212 of each printhead unit 204a and 204b are arranged along the main scanning direction in a direction parallel to the sub-scanning direction, with their positions aligned in the sub-scanning direction.

[0036] In this example, nozzle units 204a and 204b are four-color nozzle units with four different colored nozzle rows 212. Nozzle unit 204a is an example of a first nozzle unit, and as shown in the attached figures, it has multiple nozzle rows 212y to 212k that each spray out a different color ink. The colored inks sprayed from the multiple nozzle rows 212y to 212k of nozzle unit 204a are the inks used for coloring the colored areas in the model 50. In this example, these colored inks are an example of colored inks. Furthermore, each nozzle row of nozzles 212y to 212k of nozzle unit 204a can be considered as spraying out multiple colors of colored ink used for forming the colored areas. In this example, nozzle row 212y is a nozzle row that sprays yellow (Y) ink. Nozzle row 212m ejects magenta (M) ink. Nozzle row 212c ejects cyan (C) ink. Nozzle row 212k ejects black (K) ink. These YMCK colors are an example of the basic colors (printing colors) used in subtractive color mixing.

[0037] Furthermore, nozzle unit 204b is an example of a second nozzle unit, and as shown in the attached drawings, it is distinguished as nozzle rows 212s, 212w, 212t, and 212x, having multiple nozzle rows 212s to 212x that each eject ink of a different color than the colored ink ejected from nozzle unit 204a. In this case, nozzle row 212s ejects ink for the support material. Nozzle row 212w ejects white ink. In this example, the white ink is an example of a light-reflective ink, used when forming the light-reflective area of ​​the model 50. Nozzle row 212t ejects transparent ink. Transparent ink can be considered as colorless and transparent ink. Transparent ink can also be considered as uncolored translucent ink, ink that has not been intentionally colored, etc. In addition, in this example, transparent ink is used together with inks of various colors of YMCK when forming the colored area of ​​the model 50.

[0038] Furthermore, in printhead unit 204b, nozzle array 212x is a nozzle array used to spray ink of various colors or for various purposes as needed. Nozzle array 212x is considered for use as a second nozzle array for inks consumed in particularly large quantities during molding. In this case, it is considered that nozzle array 212x may spray, for example, support material ink, white ink, etc. Additionally, nozzle array 212x is also considered for use as a backup nozzle array. In this case, nozzle array 212x is considered for use as a substitute in case one of the nozzle arrays 212 in printhead units 204a and 204b malfunctions. Furthermore, nozzle array 212x can also be considered for use to spray inks of special colors other than the various colors described above.

[0039] Additionally, in the spray head 12, the planarization roller unit 104 is an example of a planarization component. In this example, as... Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2As shown in (b), the planarization roller unit 104 includes a planarization roller 402 and multiple motors 404 and 406, and is disposed outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 of the printhead 12, adjacent to the carriage 202. The planarization roller 402 is a roller that planarizes the ink layer. During the main scanning operation, it contacts the surface of the ink layer and removes a portion of the ink before curing, thereby planarizing the ink layer. Furthermore, in this example, during the main scanning operation, the planarization roller 402 rotates in a predetermined direction while contacting uncured ink, scraping ink located at a position higher than a predetermined height, thereby planarizing the ink layer. Motor 404 is an example of a rotary motor that generates a driving force to rotate the planarization roller 402. Motor 406 is an example of a roller movement motor that generates a driving force to move the planarization roller 402 in the vertical direction. In this example, the motor 406 supplies power to the mechanism that moves the flattening roller 402 in the vertical direction, thereby causing the flattening roller 402 to move up and down in the vertical direction.

[0040] In this example, the planarization roller unit 104 is connected to the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 on one side of the ink ejection section 102 in the main scanning direction via the connecting portion 112. In this case, for the planarization roller unit 104 to be connected to the carriage 202, it is also possible to consider engaging the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104 such that the planarization roller unit 104 moves along with the carriage 202 when the printhead 12 moves during the main scanning operation. With this configuration, the planarization roller 402 can be disposed outside the carriage 202, and the planarization operation based on the planarization roller 402 can be performed appropriately. Furthermore, this allows for the appropriate shaping of the shaped object 50 with high precision.

[0041] In this example, the connecting part 112 uses the magnetic attraction force to connect the planarization roller unit 104 to the carriage 202. With this configuration, it is easy to change the relative position of the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202, and it is possible to appropriately achieve a state where the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 move together during the main scanning operation. Furthermore, in this case, the connection method between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 can be considered as a state where their positional relationship is not completely fixed, but rather a state where their relative position can be easily adjusted. Additionally, this connection method can also be considered as a state where the two are connected with a certain degree of looseness. Furthermore, the connection achieved using the magnetic attraction force, as in this example, can be considered an example of a joint that allows for easy contact and separation, and easy changes and adjustments to the positional relationship. In addition, in this case, the position (joint position) of the planarization roller unit 104 mounted relative to the carriage 202 can also be easily and appropriately adjusted.

[0042] Furthermore, the connection between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202, achieved by the magnetic attraction force, does not necessarily require the magnetic attraction force to be applied directly to the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202. It can also be achieved by applying the magnetic attraction force to components respectively fixed to the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202. In this example, the connecting portion 112 is part of the planarization roller unit 104 and is fixed in position relative to the planarization roller 402. The connecting portion 112 has a magnet, which is used to attract the planarization roller unit 104 to any position on the ink ejection section 102, thereby connecting the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202. Alternatively, the magnet could be disposed on the ink ejection section 102 side, rather than on the connecting portion 112 of the planarization roller unit 104. In this case, the connecting portion 112 has a metal component that can be attracted by a magnet, thereby connecting to the carriage 202 by the attraction force of the magnet located on the ink ejection section 102 side. Alternatively, in a variation of the printhead 12, the connecting portion 112 may be a structure independent of the planarization roller unit 104. In this case, the connecting portion 112 is attracted to any position on the planarization roller unit 104 by the attraction force of a magnet. Alternatively, the connecting portion 112 may be part of the ink ejection section 102. Furthermore, in another variation of the printhead 12, the connecting portion 112 may connect the planarization roller unit 104 to the carriage 202 by a method other than the attraction force of a magnet. The connection method between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 will be described in more detail later.

[0043] Multiple light source units 106 are unit components having a light source (UV light source) for curing ink, generating ultraviolet light to cure ultraviolet-curable ink. In this example, the multiple light source units 106 are respectively arranged on one end and the other end of the printhead 12 in the main scanning direction, with the ink ejection section 102 and the planarization roller unit 104 sandwiched between them. As the light source in the light source unit 106, UV LEDs (ultraviolet LEDs) can be appropriately used. In addition, metal halide lamps, mercury lamps, etc. are also considered as the light source in the light source unit 106. In addition, in this example, the multiple light source units 106 are also arranged outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102, and are connected to the carriage 202 in such a way that the multiple light source units 106 move with the carriage 202 during the main scanning operation. In this case, the connection of the light source units 106 to the carriage 202 is considered to be a different structure than the connection of the planarization roller unit 104 to the carriage 202. For each of the multiple light source units 106, for example, it is advisable to use a component that is fixed at a predetermined position relative to the ink ejection section 102 and each of the multiple light source units 106, and connect them in a way that fixes their positional relationship. If configured in this way, the light source unit 106, which has a weight greater than that of the planarization roller unit 104, can be properly joined to the ink ejection section 102. In addition, in this case, the connection between the light source unit 106 and the carriage 202 can be considered to be more firmly connected than the connection between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202. In addition, in a modified example of the printhead 12, the connection between the light source unit 106 and the carriage 202 can also be made by using the attraction force of a magnet, similar to the connection between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202.

[0044] By using the printhead 12 with the above-described structure, the ink layer constituting the shaped object 50 can be appropriately formed. Furthermore, by forming multiple ink layers in layers, the shaped object 50 can be appropriately shaped. Additionally, in the printhead 12 of this example, the above-described structure also enables miniaturization and weight reduction of the carriage 202. In this case, the weight reduction of the carriage 202 can be considered as a reduction in the total weight of the structure held by the carriage 202. As explained above, in this example, printhead units 204a and 204b each eject ink of multiple colors. Moreover, in this case, compared to using multiple inkjet heads for monochrome ink that only eject one color, the size and weight of the structure for ejecting multiple colors of ink of the same number of colors are reduced. Therefore, by using printhead units 204a and 204b to eject ink of multiple colors in the printhead 12, the miniaturization and weight reduction of the carriage 202 can be appropriately achieved. In addition, in this example, by arranging the flattening roller unit 104 on the outside of the carriage 202, the carriage 202 can be further miniaturized and lightened.

[0045] In this example, multiple printhead units 204a and 204b are detachably mounted on the carriage base of the carriage 202 using a prescribed mounting mechanism (mounting component). Furthermore, each printhead unit of printhead units 204a and 204b in this example can be considered as an inkjet head that also functions as a single-color inkjet head, capable of ejecting multiple inks of different colors or for different purposes. Additionally, printhead units like printhead units 204a and 204b can be considered as integrated units that can be replaced collectively during repair or maintenance. Furthermore, printhead units can also be considered as replacement units that collectively become replacement targets in the event of a malfunction in a particular nozzle array within the printhead unit. A malfunction in a nozzle array can be considered as a malfunction requiring replacement. Furthermore, replacement units can be considered as components replaced during routine maintenance of the molding device 10. Routine maintenance can be considered as maintenance performed according to methods described in a maintenance manual, etc. Alternatively, in this case, the nozzle unit could also be designed as a structure that does not break down into individual color nozzle rows during maintenance.

[0046] Furthermore, the printhead units used as printhead units 204a and 204b can also be considered as components of sales units sold as multi-color inkjet heads. Multiple nozzle rows in a printhead unit can be integrally formed in one component. In this case, even if multiple nozzle rows are integrally formed in one component of the printhead unit, it is also possible that multiple nozzle rows are formed at predetermined positions within a housing of a fixed shape constituting the outer surface shape of the printhead unit. Furthermore, in each printhead unit, the multiple nozzle rows can be arranged in a predetermined positional relationship. Additionally, the position of each nozzle row in the printhead unit can be adjusted (fine-tuned) within a predetermined adjustable range. In this case, maintaining a predetermined positional relationship for the multiple nozzle rows can also be considered as maintaining a predetermined positional relationship with the adjustable range corresponding to each nozzle row. Furthermore, maintaining a predetermined positional relationship for the multiple nozzle rows can also be considered as determining the positional relationship of the adjustment reference position in each nozzle row. Furthermore, each nozzle unit has a nozzle plate, which is a plate-shaped body with through holes arranged to form nozzles in a nozzle array. In this case, nozzle plates with nozzle arrays corresponding to multiple colors can be appropriately used. Additionally, nozzle units 204a and 204b may each have multiple nozzle plates. Furthermore, each of the multiple nozzle plates may have multiple nozzle arrays. In this case, a structure could be considered where nozzle units 204a and 204b each have two nozzle plates, and each nozzle plate (one nozzle plate) has a nozzle array corresponding to two colors.

[0047] Furthermore, considering the printhead unit in a more generalized way, a structure consisting of multiple monochrome inkjet heads can also be considered. In this case, by making the structure of multiple monochrome inkjet heads compactly integrated as the replacement unit, compared to cases where each monochrome inkjet head is individually mounted on a carriage, the carriage can be miniaturized and made lighter. Additionally, in this case, the positional relationship of each monochrome inkjet head integrated within the printhead unit can be finely adjusted.

[0048] Furthermore, as explained above, the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 in this example is a structure for holding multiple printhead units 204a and 204b. In contrast, it is possible to use a holding member for holding the planarization roller 402 in the planarization roller unit 104. Moreover, in this case, the holding member of the planarization roller unit 104 can also be considered as the carriage of the planarization roller unit 104, etc. Furthermore, in this case, it is possible to consider a structure in which the planarization roller unit 104 uses a carriage independent of the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 to hold the planarization roller 402. Alternatively, it is possible to consider a structure in which the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 does not hold the planarization roller 402 but holds the printhead units 204a and 204b. Moreover, in this case, the connecting portion 112 can be considered as a structure that connects the carriage for the planarization roller 402 of the planarization roller unit 104 to the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102, etc.

[0049] Furthermore, in the printhead 12 of this example, not only printhead units 204a and 204b are used, but the types of ink ejected by printhead units 204a and 204b are determined according to the purpose of the ink. As explained above, in this example, the various colors of YMCK ink used for forming the colored areas of the model 50 are ejected using the multi-color nozzle array of printhead unit 204a. Moreover, other inks are ejected using the multiple nozzle arrays of printhead unit 204b. Therefore, only the various colors of YMCK ink, which are consumed less when modeling the model 50, are ejected from printhead unit 204a. With this configuration, the difference in ink consumption between those ejected from the same printhead unit can be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, this can appropriately prevent excessive increases in the replacement cost of the modeling device 10 components due to printhead unit replacement. In addition, this aspect will be explained in further detail below in relation to the structure of the model 50 modeled by the modeling device 10.

[0050] Figure 3 This indicates the use of modeling device 10 (see reference). Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of a molded object 50 manufactured by shaping, showing an example of the structure of the XY section of the molded object 50 orthogonal to the stacking direction (Z direction). In this case, the structures of the ZX and ZY sections of the molded object 50 perpendicular to the Y and Z directions are also the same. As explained above, in this example, the molding device 10 uses the printhead unit 204a of the ink ejection section 102 of the self-jet head 12 (see reference). Figure 1The colored ink (various colors of YMCK) is sprayed out to shape the colored object 50. In this case, the coloring of the surface of the object 50 can also be considered as at least a partial coloring of the area of ​​the object 50 where the color can be visually confirmed from the outside. In this example, the shaping device 10 shapes the object 50 having a light-reflecting area 152 and a colored area 154. In addition, a support layer 52 is formed around the object 50 as needed.

[0051] The light-reflecting area 152 is a light-reflective area for reflecting light incident from the outside of the model 50 via the coloring area 154, etc. The coloring area 154 can be considered, for example, as an area that reflects light incident from the outside of the model 50 when the surface of the model 50 is colored in a full-color manner. For full-color representation, for example, it can be considered as a color representation achieved through a subtractive color mixing method of printing inks. Furthermore, in this example, the modeling device 10 uses the printhead unit 204b of the ink ejection section 102 (see reference). Figure 1 The white ink ejected forms a light-reflecting region 152, which also serves as an internal region of the model 50. In this case, the internal region can be considered, for example, the region constituting the interior of the model 50. Furthermore, the white ink used to form the light-reflecting region 152 can be considered an example of the modeling ink used to form the internal region. In a modified example of the model 50, the internal region may be formed as a region different from the light-reflecting region 152. In this case, the modeling device 10 uses any ink other than the support material ink to form the internal region. Additionally, the light-reflecting region 152 is formed around the internal region.

[0052] The coloring area 154 is the area colored using inks of various colors of YMCK ejected from the printhead unit 204a. In this example, the modeling device 10 uses inks of various colors of YMCK ejected from the printhead unit 204a and transparent ink ejected from the printhead unit 204b to form the coloring area 154 around (outer side) the light-reflecting area 152. Furthermore, in this case, the modeling device 10 represents various colors by adjusting the amount of each color ink ejected relative to each position. Additionally, transparent ink is used to compensate for variations in the total amount of color ink caused by different colors. With this configuration, each position of the coloring area 154 can be appropriately colored with the desired color. Furthermore, this allows for the appropriate modeling of the colored object 50.

[0053] In this example, the colored area 154 is formed solely by multiple colors of colored ink (YMCK colors) ejected from printhead unit 204a and transparent ink ejected from printhead unit 204b. Furthermore, as in this example, when the colored area 154 is formed on the surface of the model 50, the amount of multiple colors of colored ink consumed in forming the colored area 154 is far, far less than the amount of white ink used in forming the light-reflecting area 152 constituting the interior of the model 50, the amount of support material ink used in forming the support layer 52, etc. As a result, considering the number of times ink is ejected from each nozzle array of printhead units 204a and 204b during modeling, the number of times white ink and support material ink are ejected is far, far greater than the number of times colored ink is ejected.

[0054] Furthermore, in printhead units 204a and 204b, malfunctions are more likely to occur if the number of sprays from a particular nozzle array increases. Also, as explained above, printhead units 204a and 204b are typically replaced on a per-printhead-unit basis. Therefore, the replacement period for printhead units 204a and 204b is usually determined based on the number of sprays from the nozzle array with the highest spray frequency. Moreover, in this case, if a printhead unit (either of printhead units 204a and 204b) contains nozzle arrays with significantly different consumption levels, the replacement period will arrive earlier due to the influence of some nozzle arrays, thus increasing the replacement frequency of the printhead unit and consequently increasing the operating cost of the molding device 10. If printhead units 204a and 204b are equipped with nozzle arrays for any color ink, and if a printhead unit contains nozzle arrays for color ink and nozzle arrays for white ink or support material ink, the replacement frequency for printhead units 204a and 204b will be considered to increase. Furthermore, as a result, the frequency of replacement of the nozzle unit in the styling device 10 increases.

[0055] In contrast, in this example, the nozzle array for the less consumed color ink is concentrated in printhead unit 204a, while the nozzle array for other inks is concentrated in printhead unit 204b. Furthermore, only color ink is ejected from printhead unit 204a. With this configuration, the nozzle arrays for the inks with particularly high consumption (i.e., white ink) and the support material ink can be placed in different printhead units than those for the color ink. Therefore, according to this example, the difference in consumption for the various colors of ink ejected from printhead units 204a and 204b can be appropriately reduced. Additionally, this allows for more efficient and appropriate replacement of printhead units 204a and 204b.

[0056] Furthermore, as described above, in this example, transparent ink from the ink used to form the coloring region 154 is ejected from printhead unit 204b. However, in this case, the difference in ink consumption in printhead unit 204a can be appropriately reduced by concentrating the nozzle array for colored ink, which has particularly low consumption, in printhead unit 204a. Additionally, the consumption of transparent ink is generally more likely to be greater than that of colored ink. Therefore, it can be considered that, for printhead unit 204b, the difference in ink consumption for ejecting white ink and support material ink is also reduced compared to the case where a nozzle array for any one colored ink is provided.

[0057] Furthermore, in this example, printhead unit 204b, which consumes more ink, is considered to reach its lifespan earlier than printhead unit 204a. Therefore, as a maintenance method for the molding device 10, it is preferable to have a shorter replacement cycle for printhead unit 204b than for printhead unit 204a. Additionally, in this case, it is advisable to prompt the user to replace printhead units 204a and 204b based on the operating level of the molding device 10 before actual failure occurs. In this case, for example, it is advisable to pre-correlate the operating level of the molding device 10 with the timing of printhead unit 204a and 204b replacements. Furthermore, in this case, by making the correlation between operating level and replacement timing different for printhead units 204a and 204b, the user is encouraged to replace printhead units 204a and 204b in a manner that ensures they are replaced more frequently than printhead unit 204a. With this configuration, the printhead unit 204b, which consumes more ink, can be replaced more frequently than the printhead unit 204a. Furthermore, this allows for more appropriate maintenance of the molding device 10 based on the intended use of the ink ejected from the printhead units 204a and 204b.

[0058] Furthermore, in this case, the styling device 10 also includes, for example, a storage unit for storing correlation information that links the operating volume with the timing of replacement, and a display unit for prompting the user to replace the nozzle units 204a and 204b. Moreover, the control unit 22 of the styling device 10 (see reference...) Figure 1 Based on this associated information and the operating parameters of the styling device 10, the display unit shows a message prompting the user to replace the printhead units 204a and 204b. Furthermore, as part of the operating parameters of the styling device 10, management can be considered for, for example, the operating time during which the styling device 10 performs the styling action. As part of the operating parameters of the styling device 10, management can also be considered for the elapsed time (e.g., number of days) since the replacement of each printhead unit 204a and 204b. Additionally, as part of the operating parameters of the styling device 10, management can also be considered for the amount of ink ejected from each nozzle array of the printhead units 204a and 204b.

[0059] Next, the main scan drive unit 18 of this example will be described in further detail (see reference). Figure 1 ) and the flattening roller unit 104 of the spray head 12 (refer to Figure 1 ) characteristics. Figure 4 This is a diagram that further details the main scanning drive unit 18 and the nozzle 12, showing an example of the specific structure of the main scanning drive unit 18 together with a portion of the nozzle 12. Additionally, in Figure 4 For ease of illustration, the light source unit 106 in the nozzle 12 is omitted (see reference). Figure 1 The diagram shows the ink ejection section 102 and the planarization roller unit 104.

[0060] As explained above, in this example, the printhead 12 has a planarization roller unit 104 and a light source unit 106 outside the carriage 202 in the ink ejection section 102. In this case, the main scan drive unit 18 holds the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 outside the carriage 202 in the printhead 12 and causes the printhead 12 to perform a main scan operation. In this example, the main scan drive unit 18 has a guide rail 302, a drive mechanism 304, and a linear encoder 306. The guide rail 302 is an example of a guide member that guides the movement of the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 along the main scan direction. In this example, the guide rail 302 is a track-like member extending along the main scan direction, holding the carriage 202 in a manner that allows the carriage 202 to move along the track. In this case, the guide rail 302 can move the carriage 202 along the guide rail 302 by engaging the carriage 202 itself or a component that fixes the position of the carriage 202 relative to the guide rail 302.

[0061] Furthermore, as the guide rail 302, a structure having a track portion and a moving portion can be considered, for example. In this case, the track portion is a track-shaped part in the guide rail 302. The moving portion is a structure that moves along the track portion. When using a guide rail 302 with such a structure, the guide rail 302 holds the carriage 202 in a movable manner by fixing the carriage 202 relative to the moving portion. Furthermore, by moving the moving portion along the track portion, the carriage 202 moves along the main scanning direction. As such a guide rail 302, a known LM rolling guide (registered trademark) can be appropriately used. For the LM rolling guide, a component that guides the linear motion part of the machine using a rolling motion can be considered.

[0062] In this example, the guide rail 302 holds the planarization roller unit 104 so that it can move independently of the ink ejection section 102 along the main scanning direction. Alternatively, when using a guide rail 302 having a track section and a moving section, to independently hold the planarization roller unit 104 with the ink ejection section 102 using the guide rail 302, it is also possible to fix the planarization roller unit 104 and the ink ejection section 102 independently relative to the moving section of the guide rail 302. In this case, it is possible to fix the planarization roller unit 104 at a position different from the fixed position of the ink ejection section 102 relative to the moving section. Furthermore, as explained above, the holding member of the planarization roller 402 used to hold the planarization roller unit 104 can be a carriage of the planarization roller unit 104, independent of the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102. Furthermore, in this case, for the planarization roller unit 104 to be held independently by the guide rail 302 and the ink ejection section 102, it is also possible to consider a carriage for holding the planarization roller unit 104 and a carriage 202 for holding the ink ejection section 102 by the guide rail 302.

[0063] Furthermore, although the illustration is omitted, the guide rail 302 also maintains the light source unit 106 so that it can move independently along the main scanning direction from the ink ejection section 102 and the planarization roller unit 104. In this case, for the guide rail 302 to maintain the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 so that they can move, it can also be considered that the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 are respectively engaged with the guide rail 302, thereby allowing the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 to move along the guide rail 302. Alternatively, it can be considered that the guide rail 302 holds the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 in such a way that the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 can move along the main scanning direction.

[0064] With this configuration, the weight of each structure of the printhead 12 can be distributed across multiple locations on the guide rail 302. Therefore, compared to cases where the flattening roller is also held by the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102, this configuration appropriately prevents weight concentration at the location where the carriage 202 is held on the guide rail 302. Furthermore, this appropriately prevents the guide rail 302 from deflecting. Additionally, according to... Figure 2 As can be understood from the structure shown in (b), in this example, the guide rail 302 supports the carriage 202 in a cantilevered state by supporting the carriage 202 on one side from the sub-scanning direction. Furthermore, in this case, when the weight of the carriage 202 increases, the side of the carriage 202 opposite to the guide rail 302 deflects downwards, easily becoming a so-called bowed state. In contrast, in this example, by arranging the flattening roller unit 104 outside the carriage 202, such a problem can be appropriately prevented.

[0065] As described above, the guide rail 302 can be designed with a structure having a track section and a moving section. In this case, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 can be mounted on the moving section of the guide rail 302 to maintain the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106. Alternatively, the ink ejection section 102, the planarization roller unit 104, and multiple light source units 106 can be mounted relative to one moving section. With this configuration, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 can move appropriately together with the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102. Furthermore, by connecting the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104 using the connecting section 112, the planarization roller unit 104 can move more appropriately. Alternatively, the guide rail 302 can also have multiple moving sections that move along a guide rail member. In this case, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 can also be fixed to moving sections different from the moving section fixed to the ink ejection section 102. This configuration can more effectively prevent weight from concentrating on the guide rail 302 to maintain the position of the carriage 202.

[0066] Furthermore, as explained above, in this example, the planarization roller unit 104 is disposed on only one side of the ink ejection section 102 in the main scanning direction. Considering that the planarization roller is also held by the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102, if the planarization roller is disposed on only one side of the carriage 202 in the main scanning direction, a weight difference is expected between the two sides. Moreover, in this case, when miniaturizing and lightening the carriage 202 using printhead units 204a, 204b, etc., the weight of the planarization roller is expected to cause the carriage 202 to tilt, resulting in the side with the planarization roller descending. In contrast, according to this example, by disposing of the planarization roller unit 104 outside the carriage 202, even when the planarization roller is disposed on only one side of the carriage 202, tilting of the carriage 202 due to the weight of the planarization roller can be more appropriately prevented.

[0067] Furthermore, during the main scanning operation, it is possible to consider reciprocating the printhead 12 in the main scanning direction, ejecting ink from the ink ejection section 102 in both the outgoing and returning paths. Moreover, as in this example, when the planarization roller unit 104 is provided only on one side of the ink ejection section 102 in the main scanning direction, it is assumed that the planarization roller 402 contacts the ink layer only when the printhead 12 moves with the planarization roller unit 104 in a rearward orientation relative to the ink ejection section 102. Therefore, in this example, the planarization roller unit 104 uses the driving force of the motor 406 to move the planarization roller 402 vertically, thereby lowering the position of the planarization roller 402 during the main scanning operation when the printhead 12 moves with the planarization roller unit 104 in a rearward orientation relative to the ink ejection section 102, thus bringing the ink layer into contact with the planarization roller 402. Furthermore, during the main scanning operation, when the printhead 12 moves in the direction where the planarization roller unit 104 is in front of the ink ejection section 102, the planarization roller 402 is retracted upwards, preventing the ink layer from contacting the planarization roller 402. According to this example, the position of the planarization roller 402 in the vertical direction can be easily and appropriately changed. Furthermore, this allows for more appropriate planarization of the ink layer when forming it using a reciprocating main scanning operation.

[0068] Furthermore, as in this example, when the planarization roller unit 104 has multiple motors 404, 406, the weight of the planarization roller unit 104 is considered to increase. Moreover, in this case, if the carriage 202 of the inkjet section 102 is used to maintain the structure corresponding to the planarization roller unit 104, the problem of the increased weight of the carriage 202 becomes particularly significant. Therefore, in this example, it can also be considered that the effect obtained by arranging the planarization roller unit 104 outside the carriage 202 is particularly large.

[0069] The drive mechanism 304 is a drive mechanism that moves the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 along the guide rail 302. In this example, the drive mechanism 304 includes a belt 312, a drive pulley 314, a driven pulley 316, and a motor 318. The belt 312 is an annular belt member that is mounted along the movement range of the carriage 202 in the main scanning direction, and rotates along a rotation path with the drive pulley 314 and the driven pulley 316 set at one end and the other end in the main scanning direction. Furthermore, the belt 312 rotates by rotating the carriage 202 or the portion of the ink ejection section 102 that is fixed relative to the position of the carriage 202 in a predetermined position, thereby moving the carriage 202 in the main scanning direction. In addition, in this case, the belt 312 reverses the direction of rotation appropriately, thereby causing the carriage 202 to reciprocate within the movement range of the carriage 202 in the main scanning direction.

[0070] Drive pulley 314 and driven pulley 316 are pulleys used to mount and rotate belt 312. Drive pulley 314 is a pulley that rotates according to power received from motor 318, and engages with belt 312 on one side in the main scanning direction, thereby providing power for the rotational movement of belt 312. Driven pulley 316 is a pulley that engages with belt 312 on the other side in the main scanning direction, and rotates following the rotational movement of belt 312. Motor 318 is a motor that rotates drive pulley 314, according to the control unit 22 of molding device 10 (see reference). Figure 1 The drive pulley 314 rotates according to the instruction of the main scanning operation. With this configuration, the carriage 202 can be moved appropriately during the main scanning operation. In addition, the nozzle units 204a, 204b, etc., held in the carriage 202 can be moved appropriately along the main scanning direction.

[0071] In this example, the belt 312 is not directly connected to the planarization roller unit 104. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the belt 312 is also not directly connected to the light source unit 106. Therefore, during the main scanning operation, the drive mechanism 304 moves the ink ejection section 102, causing the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 to move along with the ink ejection section 102. As explained above, in this example, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 are connected to the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 via a connecting part 112, etc. Moreover, in this case, when the belt 312 moves the carriage 202 along the main scanning direction, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 also move along the main scanning direction along with the carriage 202. Therefore, according to this example, each structure of the printhead 12 can be appropriately moved along the main scanning direction during the main scanning operation.

[0072] Furthermore, as described above, in this example, the motor 318 rotates the drive pulley 314 according to the instruction of the control unit 22. In this case, the control unit 22 controls the operation of the motor 318 based on the output of the linear encoder 306, thereby controlling the rotation of the drive pulley 314. In this example, the linear encoder 306 includes a linear scale 322 and a sensor 324. The linear scale 322 is a component that indicates a scale as a reference for position, and is configured to extend along the guide rail 302 in the main scanning direction. In this example, the linear scale 322 indicates various positions of the guide rail 302 by being mounted on it. The sensor 324 is an optical sensor that reads the scale of the linear scale 322, and is disposed at a predetermined position in the inkjet section 102 that is fixed relative to the position of the carriage 202. With this configuration, by using the sensor 324 to read the scale of the linear scale 322, the position of the carriage 202 can be detected with high accuracy and appropriateness. Furthermore, the control unit 22 controls the operation of the motor 318 based on the detection results of the sensor 324, thereby enabling the carriage 202 to move while detecting its position. Therefore, according to this example, the movement of the carriage 202 can be controlled with high precision and appropriateness during the main scanning operation.

[0073] Furthermore, as described above, in this example, the linear encoder 306's linear scale 322 and sensor 324 can be considered as structures possessed by the main scanning drive unit 18. However, depending on the method of dividing the structure of the molding device 10, the sensor 324 of the linear scale 322 can also be considered as a structure of the printhead 12 or the ink ejection unit 102, etc. Alternatively, it is also possible to consider not making the linear encoder 306 a separate component from the guide rail 302, but instead using the guide rail 302, which also functions as a linear encoder.

[0074] As described above, according to this example, during the main scanning operation, each structure of the printhead 12 can be appropriately moved along the main scanning direction. Furthermore, by using printhead units 204a and 204b in the ink ejection section 102 of the printhead 12, the carriage 202 can be appropriately miniaturized and lightened. Moreover, in this case, in conjunction with the miniaturized and lightweight carriage 202, the Y-bar structure extending along the main scanning direction in the main scanning drive section 18 can be appropriately simplified. Furthermore, in this case, by independently holding the flattening roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 with the ink ejection section 102 using the guide rail 302, even with the simplified Y-bar structure, deflection of the guide rail 302 can be appropriately prevented, thus appropriately supporting each structure of the printhead 12.

[0075] Furthermore, during the main scanning operation, high-precision control of the timing of ink ejection from the ink ejector unit 102 is required. Therefore, the position of the ink ejector unit 102 is particularly important among the various structures of the ink ejector unit 102 during the main scanning operation. In contrast, the required precision for the positions of the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 in the main scanning direction is lower than that for the ink ejector unit 102. Therefore, in this example, as described above, the position of the carriage 202 of the ink ejector unit 102 is detected using a linear encoder 306, and the carriage 202 is moved using a belt 312. In addition, the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106 are moved along with the carriage 202. Therefore, according to this example, the position of the ink ejector unit 102 in the main scanning direction can be controlled with high precision and appropriateness.

[0076] Furthermore, in this example, by arranging the planarization roller unit 104 outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 and connecting the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104 with a predetermined structure, it is also possible to more easily and appropriately adjust the tilt of the carriage 202 and the height of the planarization roller 402 of the planarization roller unit 104. Therefore, the connection method between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 will be described in further detail below.

[0077] When the planarization roller is held in place by the carriage 202 of the inkjet section 102, if the tilt of the carriage 202 is adjusted, the height of the planarization roller in the vertical direction will also change directly. In this case, the tilt of the carriage 202 can be considered as the angle between the carriage 202 and the molding table 14 (see reference). Figure 1 The inclination of the opposite surface relative to the horizontal direction can also be considered as an inclination relative to the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the height of the flattening roller can be considered as the height at which the flattening roller performs flattening (its position in the vertical direction). In contrast, as in this example, when the flattening roller unit 104 is arranged outside the carriage 202, adjusting the inclination of the carriage 202 does not easily have a direct impact on the height of the flattening roller 402 of the flattening roller unit 104. Furthermore, when adjusting the height of the flattening roller 402, adjusting the height of the flattening roller 402 also does not easily have a direct impact on the inclination of the carriage 202.

[0078] Furthermore, as explained above, in this example, the planarization roller unit 104 is connected to the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 by means of magnetic attraction, thereby connecting with the carriage 202. Moreover, in this case, compared to the case where the positional relationship between the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 is fixed by means of threaded fastening, changes in the tilt of the carriage 202 and the height of the planarization roller 402 are less likely to affect the other. In addition, for this connection between the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104, it is also possible to consider connecting them in such a state that when the carriage 202 moves along the guide rail 302, the planarization roller unit 104 moves together with the carriage 202, and it is possible to make fine adjustments such as tilting or height of the other without moving one of the carriage 202 or the planarization roller unit 104.

[0079] Furthermore, as explained above, in this example, the planarization roller unit 104 and the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 are independently supported on the guide rail 302. The planarization roller unit 104 is connected to the carriage 202 using the magnetic attraction force. Moreover, this magnetic attraction-based connection can be considered a looser connection compared to threaded fastening. Therefore, the degree of tilt adjustment of the carriage 202 can appropriately suppress the influence on the height of the planarization roller 402 of the planarization roller unit 104, and the carriage 202 can be adjusted appropriately. Conversely, the influence on the tilt of the carriage 202 can also be suppressed, and the position of the planarization roller unit 104 can be changed to adjust the height of the planarization roller 402. Therefore, according to this example, the tilt adjustment of the carriage 202 and the height adjustment of the planarization roller 402 can be performed independently and more appropriately. Furthermore, these adjustments can be performed easily and appropriately with high precision.

[0080] In this example, the planarization roller unit 104 is connected to the carriage 202 using the magnetic attraction force, thereby allowing the vertical position of the planarization roller 402 to be adjusted without changing the tilt of the carriage 202 relative to the horizontal direction. In this case, for the vertical position of the planarization roller 402 to be adjusted without changing the tilt of the carriage 202 relative to the horizontal direction, it can be considered that the tilt of the carriage 202 remains unchanged while the adjustment amount of the position of the planarization roller 402 is within a specified range. Furthermore, for the tilt of the carriage 202 to remain unchanged, it can also be considered that the tilt of the carriage 202 remains substantially unchanged according to the required shaping accuracy. Furthermore, for the tilt of the carriage 202 to remain substantially unchanged, it can also be considered that shaping can be performed even without readjusting the tilt of the carriage 202. With this configuration, the height of the planarization roller 402 can be adjusted appropriately without affecting the tilt of the carriage 202. Furthermore, this allows for a more appropriate adjustment of the height of the flattening roller 402 with a high degree of freedom.

[0081] In this case, adjusting the position of the flattening roller 402 can be performed by adjusting the overall position of the flattening roller unit 104. Adjusting the overall position of the flattening roller unit 104 can involve adjusting the relative position of the flattening roller unit 104 with respect to the carriage 202. Furthermore, adjusting the position of the flattening roller 402 (e.g., fine-tuning) can also be performed by using the driving force of the motor 406 to change the vertical position of the flattening roller 402. In this case, after adjusting the overall position of the flattening roller unit 104, the vertical position of the flattening roller 402 can be further adjusted using the driving force of the motor 406. With this configuration, the height of the flattening roller 402 can be adjusted more appropriately with high precision.

[0082] Alternatively, the planarization roller unit 104 can be connected to the carriage 202 by utilizing the magnetic attraction force, thereby allowing the tilt of the carriage 202 relative to the horizontal direction to be adjusted while keeping the vertical position of the planarization roller 402 unchanged. In this case, for adjusting the tilt of the carriage 202 relative to the horizontal direction while keeping the position of the planarization roller 402 unchanged, it can also be considered that the position of the planarization roller 402 remains unchanged as long as the adjustment amount of the tilt of the carriage 202 is within a specified range. Furthermore, keeping the position of the planarization roller 402 unchanged can also be considered as keeping the position of the planarization roller 402 substantially unchanged according to the required shaping accuracy during shaping. Keeping the position of the planarization roller 402 substantially unchanged can also be considered as allowing shaping to be performed even without readjusting the position of the planarization roller 402. With this configuration, the tilt of the carriage 202 can be adjusted appropriately without affecting the height of the planarization roller 402. Furthermore, this allows for more appropriate adjustment of the tilt of the carriage 202 with a high degree of freedom.

[0083] Next, supplementary explanations related to the structures described above will be provided. In the above description, the arrangement of the multiple printhead units 204a and 204b held by the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 was mainly explained as follows: they are aligned in the sub-scanning direction and arranged along the main scanning direction. In a modified example of the printhead 12, the arrangement of the multiple printhead units 204a and 204b may differ from the above. In this case, the carriage 202 can be used to hold the multiple printhead units 204a and 204b arranged with their positions staggered in the sub-scanning direction. Furthermore, the above description mainly focused on the case where the carriage 202 holds two printhead units in the ink ejection section 102. In a modified example of the printhead 12, the carriage 202 may hold three or more printhead units. In this case, by ejecting ink of various colors of YMCK from any printhead unit and ejecting ink of other colors from other printhead units, it is possible to appropriately reduce the difference in consumption of multiple colors of ink ejected from a single printhead unit.

[0084] Furthermore, as explained above, in the printhead 12 of this example, the planarization roller unit 104 is disposed outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102. Moreover, in this case, various effects can be obtained in addition to the matters described above. As explained above, during the main scanning operation, the planarization roller 402 of the planarization roller unit 104 rotates under the driving force of the motor 404 while in contact with the ink layer. Furthermore, in this case, the planarization roller 402 rotates while receiving the force generated by the contact, which easily leads to minor vibrations. Therefore, if the planarization roller 402 is held together with the printhead units 204a and 204b on the carriage 202, the effects of vibrations generated at the position of the planarization roller 402 can easily affect the printhead units 204a and 204b. Furthermore, as a result, it is believed that the ink ejection accuracy of the printhead units 204a and 204b is also affected. In contrast, in this example, as described above, the planarization roller unit 104 is disposed outside the carriage 202, and the carriage 202 is connected to the planarization roller unit 104 by the attraction force of a magnet. With this configuration, the effects of vibrations and other factors generated at the position of the planarization roller 402 can be appropriately prevented from affecting the printhead units 204a and 204b. Furthermore, this allows for more precise and appropriate ink ejection from the printhead units 204a and 204b.

[0085] Furthermore, as explained above, in the drive mechanism 304 of the main scan drive unit 18 in this example, the belt 312 is not directly connected to the planarization roller unit 104 and the light source unit 106. Moreover, in this case, it can be considered that since the planarization roller unit 104 is not directly connected to the belt 312, position adjustments are easier. Therefore, it is particularly preferable that the planarization roller unit 104 is not directly connected to the belt 312. In contrast, the light source unit 106 is heavier than the planarization roller unit 104, so it is also advisable to fix it relative to the belt 312. With this configuration, the light source unit 106 can be held more reliably in the main scan drive unit 18.

[0086] Furthermore, the above description mainly focused on the structure of arranging the planarization roller unit 104 on one side of the ink ejection section 102 in the main scanning direction. In a modified example of the printhead 12, the planarization roller unit 104 can also be arranged on both sides of the ink ejection section 102 in the main scanning direction. With this configuration, when forming an ink layer using a reciprocating main scanning motion, the ink layer can be planarized in both the forward and return paths. In addition, as in this example, when the planarization roller unit 104 is arranged outside the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102, the installation and removal of the planarization roller unit 104 can be made easier. Therefore, the position of the planarization roller unit 104 can be switched between being arranged on only one side of the ink ejection section 102 and being arranged on both sides of the ink ejection section 102, depending on the required quality of the design.

[0087] Furthermore, in the above description, the connection between the carriage 202 of the ink ejection section 102 and the planarization roller unit 104 was mainly explained using the magnetic attraction force to join the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104. In a modified example of the printhead 12, the connection between the carriage 202 and the planarization roller unit 104 can also be achieved using methods other than the magnetic attraction force. In this case, similarly to the structure described above, it is preferable to use a structure in which the planarization roller unit 104 moves together with the carriage 202 during the main scanning operation, and the tilt of the carriage 202 and the height of the planarization roller 402 can be appropriately adjusted.

[0088] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of miniaturization and weight reduction of the carriage 202, it is also possible to consider not having the leveling roller 402 located outside the carriage 202, but rather having it held inside the carriage 202 together with the nozzle units 204a and 204b. With this configuration, miniaturization and weight reduction of the carriage 202 can also be achieved by using the nozzle units 204a and 204b.

[0089] Industrial availability

[0090] This invention can be applied to shaping devices.

[0091] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0092] 10. Molding device; 102. Ink ejection section; 104. Planarization roller unit; 106. Light source unit; 112. Connecting part; 12. Printhead; 14. Molding table; 152. Light reflection area; 154. Coloring area; 16. Ink tank; 18. Main scanning drive unit; 20. Molding table drive unit; 202. Carriage; 204. Printhead unit; 212. Nozzle array; 22. Control unit; 302. Guide rail; 304. Drive mechanism; 306. Linear encoder; 312. Belt; 314. Drive pulley; 316. Driven pulley; 318. Motor; 322. Linear scale; 324. Sensor; 402. Planarization roller; 404. Motor; 406. Motor; 50. Molded object; 52. Support layer.

Claims

1. A shaping device that creates at least partially colored objects by layering ink layers to achieve the desired shape, characterized in that... This design device features: Multiple printhead units, each ejecting ink from multiple nozzle arrays; and The carriage holds the plurality of nozzle units. Each of the aforementioned printhead units has a plurality of nozzle arrays that respectively eject ink supplied from the ink container via different ink supply paths. The carriage holds the first nozzle unit and the second nozzle unit as the plurality of nozzle units. The first printhead unit has multiple rows of nozzles that each eject colored ink of a different color. The second printhead unit has the plurality of nozzle arrays that each eject an ink different from the colored ink ejected by the first printhead unit. Each of the nozzle units is a component that collectively becomes a replacement unit in the event of a failure in any of the nozzle arrays.

2. The shaping device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In each of the nozzle units, the plurality of nozzle rows are arranged in a prescribed positional relationship.

3. The molding device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, This shaping device creates objects with light-reflecting and coloring areas through shaping. This light-reflecting area is formed using ink of a light-reflective color. The colored area is formed on the outside of the light-reflecting area using the colored ink. The colored area is an area formed using colored inks and transparent inks of various colors. The plurality of nozzle arrays of the first printhead unit respectively spray ink of each color from the plurality of colored inks used to form the coloring area. The second nozzle unit has the following nozzle array as at least a portion of the plurality of nozzle arrays: A nozzle array that ejects the light-reflective ink; A nozzle array that ejects the transparent ink; and A line of nozzles that ejects ink as a material that supports at least a portion of the shape during its shaping process.

4. The shaping device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The colored area is an area formed solely by the colored inks of the various colors ejected from the first printhead unit and the transparent inks ejected from the second printhead unit.

5. The molding device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, This design device also features: The main scanning drive unit causes the plurality of printhead units to perform a main scanning action that ejects ink while moving along a preset main scanning direction; and A planarization component having a planarization roller that planarizes the ink layer. The main scanning drive unit has: A guiding member that guides the movement of the carriage along the main scanning direction; as well as A drive mechanism that moves the carriage along the guide member. The planarization component is held by the guide member outside the carriage in a manner that allows it to move along the main scanning direction.

6. The shaping device according to claim 3, characterized in that, This design device also features: The main scanning drive unit causes the plurality of printhead units to perform a main scanning action that ejects ink while moving along a preset main scanning direction; and A planarization component having a planarization roller that planarizes the ink layer. The main scanning drive unit has: A guiding member that guides the movement of the carriage along the main scanning direction; as well as A drive mechanism that moves the carriage along the guide member. The planarization component is held by the guide member outside the carriage in a manner that allows it to move along the main scanning direction.

7. The shaping device according to claim 4, characterized in that, This design device also features: The main scanning drive unit causes the plurality of printhead units to perform a main scanning action that ejects ink while moving along a preset main scanning direction; and A planarization component having a planarization roller that planarizes the ink layer. The main scanning drive unit has: A guiding member that guides the movement of the carriage along the main scanning direction; as well as A drive mechanism that moves the carriage along the guide member. The planarization component is held by the guide member outside the carriage in a manner that allows it to move along the main scanning direction.

8. A method for maintaining a shaping device, wherein maintenance is performed on the shaping device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, In the maintenance method of this shaping device, Based on the operating volume of the aforementioned shaping device, the user is prompted to replace each of the aforementioned nozzle units, and... By making the correlation between the amount of operation and the timing of replacement different in the first and second nozzle units, the user is prompted to replace each nozzle unit in such a way that the second nozzle unit is replaced more frequently than the first nozzle unit.

9. A modeling method, which uses the modeling device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The shaped object is manufactured by ejecting ink from the first printhead unit and the second printhead unit.

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