Laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, device and method of manufacture

Abstract

The application relates to the field of friction stir additive technology, in particular to a laser-combined friction stir additive device, equipment and a manufacturing method, the laser-combined friction stir additive device comprises a friction stir unit and a laser unit, the friction stir unit comprises a first stirring shaft body and a second stirring shaft body, the first stirring shaft body is hollow along the axial direction of the first stirring shaft body to form a laser channel, the second stirring shaft body is hollow along the axial direction of the second stirring shaft body and is sleeved outside the first stirring shaft body, and a first material channel is formed between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft body and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft body; the laser unit is coaxially connected with the friction stir unit, and the laser unit is configured to emit laser which can pass through the laser channel, so that the friction stir unit is provided with additive assistance through the laser. The application can realize efficient and high-quality friction stir additive, and the space utilization of the device is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of friction stir additive manufacturing technology, and more particularly to laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, equipment, and manufacturing methods. Background Technology

[0002] Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, has become an important process in product manufacturing due to its high flexibility, unlimited customization capabilities, and rapid response to complex geometries. It is widely used in the automotive, marine, aerospace, and military industries. In recent years, a new branch of metal additive manufacturing based on the principle of friction stir welding—friction stir additive manufacturing—has rapidly developed and is gradually gaining market recognition. It utilizes a high-speed rotating stirring head to extrude metal while simultaneously introducing raw materials. Significant plastic deformation is induced in the material within the stirring zone, causing it to adhere to the matrix. This process involves no melting; solid-state bonding is achieved under the extrusion action of the stirring head's shoulder. Compared to other metal additive manufacturing technologies, it requires less heat input and operates at higher pressures in the working zone, effectively mitigating problems such as porosity, hot cracking, residual stress, and alloy element burn-off. It has broad application prospects in the additive manufacturing of large components made of lightweight alloys such as aluminum and magnesium alloys.

[0003] In existing friction stir additive manufacturing methods, heat is primarily generated through friction between the stirring head and the workpiece to soften the substrate and consumables, forming a bond. During operation, significant forging forces, rotational speeds, and torques are required to generate sufficient heat to soften the material. When dealing with high-melting-point metals such as iron-based alloys, titanium alloys, and nickel-based alloys, existing friction stir additive manufacturing equipment struggles to meet production demands, resulting in low additive efficiency and poor product quality. Some methods utilize external auxiliary devices, such as resistance heating and induction heating, to provide a heat source and assist in friction stir additive manufacturing. While these methods meet efficiency and quality requirements, they also suffer from drawbacks such as large size, inability to handle complex paths, and oxidation of the deposited layer. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the difficulty of existing devices in balancing additive efficiency, quality and space utilization of high melting point materials, and to provide a laser composite friction stir additive device, friction stir additive equipment and manufacturing method, which can achieve efficient and high-quality friction stir additive manufacturing, and the device has high space utilization.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device, comprising a friction stir unit, the friction stir unit including a first stirring shaft and a second stirring shaft, the first stirring shaft being hollow along its own axial direction to form a laser channel, the second stirring shaft being hollow along its own axial direction and sleeved outside the first stirring shaft, a first material channel being formed between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft; and a laser unit coaxially connected to the friction stir unit, the laser unit being configured to emit laser light into the laser channel to provide additive manufacturing assistance to the friction stir unit through the laser light.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present invention, the stirring friction unit further includes a first heat insulation component, which at least covers the inner wall of the first stirring shaft.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second stirring shaft is configured to rotate relative to the first stirring shaft, and the inner wall of the second stirring shaft is provided with a spiral structure.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the stirring friction unit further includes a stirring element, the stirring element including a first plane and a second plane disposed opposite to each other, the first plane being provided with a stirring needle, the second plane being connected to a second stirring shaft, the stirring element being provided with a through discharge channel, the discharge channel being connected to a first material channel; and a second heat insulation component, the second heat insulation component being connected to the second plane and the second stirring shaft respectively, the second heat insulation component being provided with a second material channel, the second material channel being connected to the discharge channel and the first material channel respectively.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the discharge channel includes a first orifice located on the first plane and a second orifice located on the second plane. The first orifice is eccentrically disposed relative to the rotation axis of the stirring component, and the second orifice is concentrically disposed with the rotation axis. The eccentric distance H of the first orifice satisfies the relationship 0.5mm≤H≤1.5mm.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the stirring friction unit further includes a stirring housing, which is hollow along its own axial direction and sleeved on the second stirring shaft. An airflow cavity is formed between at least a portion of the inner wall of the stirring housing and the outer wall of the second stirring shaft. A through first vent hole is provided on the stirring housing, which communicates with the airflow cavity. The first vent hole is configured to input inert gas into the airflow cavity. The stirring housing is bent at the discharge end near the first material channel toward the second stirring shaft to form a blocking part. An airflow gap is formed between the blocking part and the outer wall of the second stirring shaft, which communicates with the airflow cavity.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the stirring housing is provided with a transmission opening; the stirring friction unit further includes a sealing component and a driving assembly, the sealing component is connected to the stirring housing, a sealing cavity is formed in the sealing component, and the sealing cavity communicates with the transmission opening; the driving assembly includes a driving component, a first transmission gear and a second transmission gear, the first transmission gear is disposed in the sealing cavity and connected to the driving end of the driving component, the second transmission gear is sleeved on the second stirring shaft body, and the second transmission gear and the first transmission gear are connected by transmission through the transmission opening.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the laser unit includes a laser component and a laser connector. The laser component is coaxial with the friction stir unit. The laser component is configured to emit laser light that passes through the laser channel. The laser connector connects the laser component and the friction stir unit respectively, so as to adjust the distance of the laser light emitted by the laser component so that the focal point of the laser light acts on the working surface.

[0013] Secondly, the present invention also provides a laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing device, including a driving device and the laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing device described in any one of the above claims, wherein the driving end of the driving device is connected to the laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing device.

[0014] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing method based on any one of the above-described laser composite friction stir additive devices, comprising the following steps: conveying powder material through a first material channel between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft, and performing friction stir additive manufacturing; wherein, a laser unit coaxially connected to the friction stir unit emits laser light into the laser channel of the first stirring shaft to provide additive manufacturing assistance for the friction stir additive manufacturing through the laser light.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the above-described technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages:

[0016] The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of this invention features a laser channel on a first stirring shaft and a laser unit emitting laser light. The laser light provides heat to the powder material during the stirring and friction process through the laser channel. Firstly, the coaxial arrangement of the stirring and friction unit and the laser unit effectively reduces the device's size and improves space utilization, facilitating the device's handling of complex working paths and preventing interference with other components during path movement. Secondly, the introduction of the laser unit provides more heat to the working area, promoting rapid plasticization of high-melting-point powders and improving production efficiency. Finally, with the assistance of the laser, the powder and substrate are ensured to achieve sufficient plasticization and fusion, and even metallurgical bonding, thereby ensuring a superior, densely packed layer after stirring and friction, guaranteeing high-quality finished products. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of this invention is particularly suitable for friction stir additive manufacturing of high-melting-point metals such as iron-based alloys, titanium alloys, and nickel-based alloys. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To make the content of this invention easier to understand, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein...

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the stirring friction unit in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of the stirring component in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of the stirring element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the stirring component in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 7 This is a third-view structural diagram of the stirring component in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 8 This is one of the partial cross-sectional structural schematic diagrams of the stirring friction unit in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 9 This is a second partial cross-sectional view of the stirring friction unit in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the accompanying drawings: 10. Friction stirring unit; 11. First stirring shaft; 111. Laser channel; 112. First heat insulation component; 12. Second stirring shaft; 121. Spiral structure; 122. Rotating shaft; 13. First material channel; 14. Stirring component; 141. First plane; 142. Second plane; 143. Stirring needle; 1431. Stirring part; 144. Discharge channel; 1441. First orifice; 14411. Eccentric shaft; 1442. Second orifice; 145. Connecting part; 15. Second heat insulation component; 151. Second material channel; 16. Stirring shell; 161. First vent; 162. Blocking part; 1621. Airflow gap; 163. Transmission. 17. Opening; 181. Airflow cavity; 181. Sealing component; 1811. Sealing cavity; 182. Drive assembly; 1821. Drive component; 1822. First transmission gear; 1823. Second transmission gear; 20. Laser unit; 211. Laser body; 2111. Laser housing; 21111. Liquid cooling channel; 2112. Laser output device; 2113. Laser lens; 212. Protective housing; 2121. Protective cavity; 2122. Laser through hole; 2123. Second vent hole; 22. Laser connector; 23. Laser gap; 30. First gas supply device; 40. Second gas supply device; 50. Laser liquid cooling device; 60. Drive device; 70. Powder feeding device; 80. Worktable. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, so that those skilled in the art can better understand and implement the present invention. However, the embodiments described are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0030] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the present invention discloses a laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device, comprising a friction stir unit 10 and a laser unit 20.

[0031] The stirring friction unit 10 is used to achieve stirring friction. Specifically, the stirring friction unit 10 includes a first stirring shaft 11 and a second stirring shaft 12. The first stirring shaft 11 is hollow along its own axial direction to form a laser channel 111, so that the laser emitted by the laser unit 20 can pass through, thereby achieving synchronous auxiliary heating of the powder. By setting this structure, the space utilization is high, the size of the device is effectively reduced, and the compact device can easily handle complex operation paths.

[0032] The second stirring shaft 12 is hollow along its own axial direction and sleeved outside the first stirring shaft 11. A first material channel 13 is formed between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft 12 and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft 11 to transport powder and perform stirring friction. Those skilled in the art can set the first stirring shaft 11 and the second stirring shaft 12 according to actual needs, for example, rotating one relative to the other to achieve the corresponding stirring friction, which will not be elaborated further. Preferably, the first stirring shaft 11 and the second stirring shaft 12 are coaxially arranged.

[0033] The laser unit 20 assists the friction stir unit 10 in achieving friction stirring. Specifically, the laser unit 20 is coaxially connected to the friction stir unit 10 and is configured to emit a laser that passes through the laser channel 111 to provide additive manufacturing assistance to the friction stir unit 10. The laser has high energy density and high heat generation efficiency, enabling rapid heating and cooling, and is very clean and convenient. This structure effectively meets the heat requirements of high-melting-point metals; simultaneously, the synchronous heating structure via the laser channel 111 effectively overcomes the problems of low heat efficiency, inaccuracy, and excessively large heating areas that are common in preheating auxiliary heating structures in existing technologies, ensuring high-quality finished products. Furthermore, the coaxial arrangement and in-situ coupling of the laser unit 20 and the friction stir unit 10 effectively reduces the device size, improves space utilization, facilitates the device's handling of complex working paths, and prevents interference with other components during movement along the path. In-situ coupling means that the heat from the friction stir unit 10, the heat from the laser, the powder convergence point, and the substrate fusion area are all at the same point.

[0034] In practical use, powder is fed into the first material channel 13 to achieve frictional additive manufacturing through the interaction of the stirring shafts. During the frictional additive manufacturing process, laser is emitted by the laser unit 20, and the laser enters the laser channel 111 to provide auxiliary heat to the powder.

[0035] The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus of this invention features a laser channel 111 on a first stirring shaft 11, and a laser unit 20 emitting a laser beam. The laser beam provides heat to the powder material during the friction stir process through the laser channel 111. Firstly, the coaxial arrangement of the friction stir unit 10 and the laser unit 20 effectively reduces the device size and improves space utilization, facilitating the device's handling of complex working paths and preventing interference with other components during path movement. Secondly, the introduction of the laser unit provides more heat to the working area, promoting rapid plasticization of high-melting-point powders and improving production efficiency. Finally, with the assistance of the laser, the powder material is ensured to be fully plasticized and fused, even achieving metallurgical bonding, thereby ensuring a high-quality, densely packed layer after friction stir and guaranteeing the high quality of the finished product. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus of this invention is particularly suitable for friction stir additive manufacturing of high-melting-point metals such as iron-based alloys, titanium alloys, and nickel-based alloys.

[0036] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, the friction stir unit 10 further includes a first heat insulation component 112, which at least covers the inner wall of the first stirring shaft 11. By setting this structure, the heat radiated by the laser can be isolated, preventing damage to other components and preventing the heat from affecting the powder in the first material channel 13, thus preventing premature plasticization and blockage. Those skilled in the art can set specific first heat insulation components 112 according to actual needs, such as refractory bricks. Preferably, the first heat insulation component 112 also covers the axial end face of the first stirring shaft 11 located near the feed end of the first material channel 13.

[0037] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, the second stirring shaft 12 is configured to rotate relative to the first stirring shaft 11, and a spiral structure 121 is provided on the inner wall of the second stirring shaft 12. Preferably, the spiral structure 121 is integrally formed with the second stirring shaft 12. In actual use, the spiral structure 121, the inner wall of the second stirring shaft 12, and the inner wall of the first stirring shaft 11 cooperate with each other, so that the powder can be pushed forward and discharged from the discharge end of the first material channel 13, and fused with the substrate under the combined action of the stirring element 14 and the laser. By setting this structure, friction stir can be successfully achieved, and it is simpler and easier to assemble than the structure of rotating the first stirring shaft 11. Preferably, the second stirring shaft 12 rotates around its own axis, that is, the axis of the second stirring shaft 12 is the rotation axis 122. Figure 6 In the middle, one of the dashed lines is used to indicate the rotation axis 122.

[0038] Furthermore, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, the friction stir unit 10 further includes a stirring element 14. Specifically, the stirring element 14 includes a first plane 141 and a second plane 142 disposed opposite to each other. The first plane 141 is provided with a stirring pin 143, which is used to stir the molten layer, promote the overflow of bubbles in the deposited layer, accelerate element diffusion and fusion, improve fiber distribution, enhance the interfacial bonding strength of materials, and improve the performance of composite materials. The second plane 142 is connected to the second stirring shaft 12; preferably, the side wall of the stirring element 14 located near the second plane 142 extends radially outward to form a connecting part 145, so as to connect the second stirring shaft 12 by opening a threaded hole in the connecting part 145 and installing screws, so as to realize synchronous rotation with the shaft and realize friction stir additive manufacturing. The stirring element 14 is provided with a through discharge channel 144, which is connected to the first material channel 13 to facilitate the passage of powder and laser. Preferably, the powder inlet is located at the end of the second stirring shaft 12 that is axially away from the stirring pin 143, to ensure that the powder can be plasticized without premature clogging. Preferably, the stirring element 14 and the second stirring shaft 12 are coaxially arranged.

[0039] Preferably, the inner wall of the second stirring shaft 12 is inclined at the end near the stirring element 14, so that the radial dimension of the first material channel 13 gradually decreases from one end toward the end connected to the stirring element 14. This funnel-shaped structure facilitates the sliding of powder along the inclined surface, preventing powder accumulation and blockage. It should be noted that the end of the first material channel 13 is not necessarily its axial end, but can be set according to actual needs; for example, it can be inclined starting from the middle of the axial direction of the first material channel 13.

[0040] Furthermore, the stirring friction unit 10 also includes a second heat insulation component 15, which is connected to the second plane 142 of the stirring element 14 and the second stirring shaft 12. The second heat insulation component 15 has a second material channel 151, which connects to the discharge channel 144 and the first material channel 13 to facilitate the passage of powder and laser. By providing the second heat insulation component 15, it is possible to effectively prevent a large amount of heat from being transferred to the second stirring shaft 12 during stirring friction, effectively ensuring the service life of the other components and avoiding problems such as premature plasticization of the powder and blockage.

[0041] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 6As shown, for ease of distinction, the opening of the discharge channel 144 located on the first plane 141 is referred to as the first orifice 1441, and the opening located on the second plane 142 is referred to as the second orifice 1442. The first orifice 1441 is eccentrically positioned relative to the rotation axis 122 of the stirring component 14; by setting this eccentric structure, the powder is not centered during discharge, which allows for uniform stirring friction additive manufacturing in conjunction with the stirring needle 143, helping to eliminate air bubbles and improve the quality of the finished product; at the same time, it also improves the stirring friction efficiency for more efficient additive manufacturing. Figure 6 In the diagram, another dotted line parallel to the rotation axis 122 is used to indicate the eccentric shaft 14411, and the eccentric shaft 14411 is used to indicate the position of the first orifice 1441 eccentrically set.

[0042] Furthermore, the eccentricity H of the first orifice 1441 satisfies the relationship 0.5mm ≤ H ≤ 1.5mm. Figure 6 In this structure, the distance between the eccentric shaft 14411 and the rotating shaft 122 is the eccentric distance H. When the eccentric distance H is too small, less than 0.5 mm, the gain effect provided by the eccentric structure is limited, and it has no significant advantage compared to the traditional coaxial structure. When the eccentric distance H is too large, greater than 1.5 mm, the stirring effect is too intense, which can easily damage the formed deposition layer or even cause the deposition layer to collapse; at the same time, excessive stirring will also introduce more air, causing more internal defects in the formed part. According to experimental data, when 0.5 mm ≤ H ≤ 1.5 mm, it is possible to balance good deposition efficiency and ensure the quality of the formed part without introducing too many defects into the deposition layer. Those skilled in the art can set specific eccentric distances according to actual needs, such as 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, etc.

[0043] The second orifice 1442 is concentrically arranged with the rotating shaft 122. This concentric structure facilitates uniform feeding of powder and ensures feeding efficiency.

[0044] Preferably, the inner wall of the discharge channel 144 is inclined, and the diameter of the first orifice 1441 is not greater than the diameter of the second orifice 1442. By setting this funnel-shaped structure, the powder can slide down the inner wall of the discharge channel 144, avoiding material jamming and ensuring discharge efficiency.

[0045] Furthermore, refer to Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, the stirring needle 143 includes at least one stirring part 1431, which is disposed outside the first orifice 1441. It should be noted that the outer side of the first orifice 1441 is referenced to its edge. When multiple stirring parts 1431 are provided, they are arranged around the first orifice 1441. By setting this structure, the stirring part 1431, which is eccentric to the rotating shaft 122, not only rotates but also revolves. Combined with the first orifice 1441, this effectively improves the efficiency of friction stirring, resulting in more efficient additive manufacturing. Those skilled in the art can configure the structure of the stirring part 1431 according to actual needs.

[0046] Preferably, the stirring needle 143 includes multiple stirring sections 1431, all of which are configured with an arc-shaped structure. Specifically, each arc-shaped stirring section 1431 includes a first end and a second end. The first end is located near the center of the first orifice 1441, and the second end is located away from the center of the first orifice 1441. The portion of the stirring section 1431 located between the first and second ends extends in an arc shape. The multiple stirring sections 1431 are evenly spaced around the center of the first orifice 1441 in a circumferential direction. By configuring this structure, friction stir additive manufacturing can be efficiently achieved, and the properties of the finished material can be improved.

[0047] Reference Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, the friction stir unit 10 further includes a stirring housing 16. Preferably, a ball bearing is provided between the stirring housing 16 and the second stirring shaft 12, with the inner and outer rings of the ball bearing respectively connecting the second stirring shaft 12 and the stirring housing 16. Simultaneously, the first stirring shaft 11 and the stirring housing 16 are fastened together by fasteners, so that during the friction stir process, the stirring housing 16 and the first stirring shaft 11 remain relatively stationary, while the second stirring shaft 12 can rotate, driving the powder to move along the first material channel 13. The stirring housing 16 is hollow along its own axial direction and sleeved outside the second stirring shaft 12, with at least a portion of the inner wall of the stirring housing 16 forming an airflow cavity 17 between the outer wall of the second stirring shaft 12. Preferably, the airflow cavity 17 is formed only on the side near the discharge end of the first material channel 13. The stirring housing 16 has a through-hole 161, which connects to the airflow chamber 17. The first vent 161 is configured to introduce inert gas into the airflow chamber 17. By setting this structure, on the one hand, convective heat dissipation can be achieved to ensure that the stirring friction unit 10 can work normally; on the other hand, the inert gas can isolate the material, preventing oxidation of materials such as aluminum and magnesium during processing, and ensuring the high quality of the finished product.

[0048] Furthermore, the mixing shell 16 is bent at the discharge end near the first material channel 13 towards the second mixing shaft 12 to form a blocking part 162. An airflow gap 1621 is formed between the blocking part 162 and the outer wall of the second mixing shaft 12, and the airflow gap 1621 connects to the airflow chamber 17. By setting the blocking part 162 to block inert gas and prevent its rapid dissipation, convective heat dissipation can be effectively achieved and the easily oxidized powder can be protected.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device of the present invention, a transmission opening 163 is provided on the radial sidewall of the stirring housing 16; the friction stir unit 10 also includes a sealing component 181 and a drive assembly 182. Specifically, the sealing component 181 is connected to the stirring housing 16, and a sealing cavity 1811 is formed inside the sealing component 181, which communicates with the transmission opening 163; the sealed structure of the sealing component 181 is used to assemble, accommodate, and lubricate the corresponding reduction and transmission components, thereby effectively reducing dust pollution and gear set overheating. The drive assembly 182 includes a drive component 1821, a first transmission gear 1822, and a second transmission gear 1823. Preferably, the drive component 1821 is configured as a servo motor. The first transmission gear 1822 is disposed within the sealed cavity 1811 and connected to the drive end of the drive component 1821 as an input gear. The second transmission gear 1823 is sleeved on the outside of the second stirring shaft 12 as an output gear. The second transmission gear 1823 and the first transmission gear 1822 are connected by a transmission opening 163. It should be noted that the transmission includes not only the first transmission gear 1822 and the second transmission gear 1823, but also other gears, bearings, shafts, and other transmission components. However, considering the complexity and relatively conventional nature of the structure, it is simplified here. By setting this structure, it is possible to ensure that the second stirring shaft 12 achieves precise and high-speed rotation under the drive of each transmission gear for stirring friction additive manufacturing.

[0050] Reference Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus of the present invention, the laser unit 20 includes a laser assembly, which is coaxial with the friction stir unit 10. The laser assembly is configured to emit a laser beam that passes through the laser channel 111. By setting the coaxial structure, the stirring element 14, the material powder, and the laser are all on the same axis, resulting in better coupling. Preferably, a laser gap 23 is formed between the laser assembly and the feed end of the first material channel 13. Figure 2 In the diagram, the laser gap 23 is indicated by a dashed line. Specifically, compared to connecting the laser assembly and the first stirring shaft 11 as a single unit, setting the laser gap 23 to allow for a separate connection between the two reduces costs and facilitates assembly and debugging.

[0051] Furthermore, the laser unit 20 also includes a laser connector 22. The laser connector 22 connects the laser assembly and the friction stir unit 10, respectively, and is used to adjust the distance of the laser emitted by the laser assembly so that the laser focus acts on the corresponding working surface to achieve auxiliary heating. Specifically, although the focal length of the laser assembly is fixed after assembly, the assembly of the laser assembly and the friction stir unit 10 will still affect the final focal position of the laser. Therefore, by setting the laser connector 22, the rigidity and stability of the device can be improved, achieving efficient, precise, and stable assembly and connection between the laser assembly and the friction stir unit 10. It also facilitates adjusting the focal position by adjusting the laser connector 22, ensuring that the focal point falls on the corresponding working surface, thereby achieving efficient and high-quality friction stir additive manufacturing. Preferably, the laser connector 22 is a combination of a support frame and multiple support rods, with the components fastened together by fasteners such as screws.

[0052] Furthermore, the laser unit 20 is provided with vents that can supply gas to the laser gap 23. Specifically, the split structure also presents certain problems. When powder is fed into the first material channel 13 through the powder inlet, the powder easily disperses and contaminates the laser assembly, affecting laser transmission and potentially damaging the laser assembly. Therefore, vents are provided to supply gas, blowing away dispersed dust and ensuring the laser can smoothly enter the laser channel 111, while also providing heat for the powder during stirring and friction. This structure ensures the normal operation of the laser assembly and prevents the laser assembly from burning out corresponding lenses due to laser obstruction, thus extending its service life to a certain extent.

[0053] Preferably, the laser assembly includes a laser body 211 and a protective housing 212. The protective housing 212 is connected to the laser body 211, and a protective cavity 2121 is formed inside the protective housing 212. A laser through-hole 2122 communicating with the protective cavity 2121 and a second vent 2123 are formed on the protective housing 212. The laser emitted by the laser body 211 enters the laser channel 111 through the laser through-hole 2122. The second vent 2123 is used to deliver gas to disperse dust. By providing this protective housing 212, the laser-assisted stirring friction function can be achieved while effectively protecting the lens of the laser body 211, reducing the possibility of dust contamination of the lens, thereby extending the service life of the device.

[0054] The laser body 211 includes a laser housing 2111, a laser output device 2112, and a laser lens 2113. A laser cavity is provided within the laser housing 2111, and the output end of the laser output device 2112 is connected to the laser cavity, used to emit laser light. The laser lens 2113 is disposed within the laser cavity and is used to focus the laser emitted by the laser output device 2112, ensuring that the laser located within the laser channel 111 is coaxial with the laser channel 111 for better coupling. The structure of the laser body 211 is prior art; by setting this structure, laser light can be emitted to assist in stirring friction. Those skilled in the art can configure the laser output device 2112 according to actual needs, for example, including connecting optical fibers and collimators; those skilled in the art can configure the appropriate number and structure of laser lenses 2113 according to actual needs, which will not be elaborated further. Furthermore, a liquid cooling channel 21111 is provided on the laser housing 2111. By setting up a liquid cooling channel 21111, circulating coolant can be introduced into it to cool down the laser body 211 and prevent high temperature damage to the corresponding components.

[0055] Reference Figure 10 As shown, this invention discloses a laser-based compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, including a drive device 60 and the laser-based compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus described in any of the above embodiments. The drive end of the drive device 60 is connected to the laser-based compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus. Those skilled in the art can configure a specific drive device 60 according to actual needs, such as a robotic arm, a three-axis driver, etc., which will not be elaborated further. Since the laser-based compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus of this invention includes the laser-based compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus described in the above embodiments, it also possesses all the beneficial effects of the compound friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, which will not be elaborated further.

[0056] Preferably, the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment further includes a first gas supply device 30, a second gas supply device 40, a laser liquid cooling device 50, a powder feeding device 70, and a worktable 80. The first gas supply device 30 is connected to a first vent 161 to supply inert gas. The second gas supply device 40 is connected to a second vent 2123 to supply gas. The laser liquid cooling device 50 is connected to a liquid cooling channel 21111 to supply circulating coolant. The powder feeding device 70 is connected to a powder inlet to supply powder. The worktable 80 is located on one side of the drive device 60 to facilitate carrying the substrate and performing friction stir additive manufacturing.

[0057] The present invention also discloses a laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing method based on the laser composite friction stir additive device described in any of the above embodiments, comprising the following steps: conveying powder material through a first material channel 13 between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft 12 and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft 11, and performing friction stir additive manufacturing; wherein, a laser unit 20 coaxially connected to the friction stir unit 10 emits a laser to the laser channel 111 of the first stirring shaft 11, so as to provide additive manufacturing assistance for friction stir additive manufacturing through the laser.

[0058] Working principle:

[0059] In practical use, powder is fed into the first material channel 13 through the powder feeding device 70 from the powder inlet. With the cooperation of the drive component 1821 and the various transmission gears, the second stirring shaft 12 rotates relative to the first stirring shaft 11, causing the powder to move and plasticize under the cooperation of the inner walls of each shaft and the spiral structure 121, and then be extruded out of the discharge channel 144. Subsequently, under the action of the stirring component 14, the powder and the substrate combine. The drive device 60 drives the laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing device to move along a preset working path to achieve friction stir additive manufacturing.

[0060] During the friction stir additive manufacturing process, the laser emitter emits a laser beam coaxial with the laser channel 111. Under the action of the laser lens 2113, the laser beam enters the laser channel 111 and irradiates the powder material, providing auxiliary heat. Simultaneously, the second gas supply device 40 supplies gas to the laser gap 23 to prevent powder drift from affecting laser transmission; the laser liquid cooling unit supplies circulating coolant to the liquid cooling channel 21111 to achieve cooling. When additive manufacturing easily oxidized metals, the first gas supply device 30 inputs inert gas into the gas flow cavity 17 to prevent powder oxidation.

[0061] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A laser-based composite stir friction additive manufacturing device, characterized in that, include: A stirring friction unit includes a first stirring shaft, a second stirring shaft, a stirring element, and a second heat insulation component. The first stirring shaft is hollow along its axial direction to form a laser channel. The second stirring shaft is hollow along its axial direction and sleeved outside the first stirring shaft. A first material channel is formed between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft. The second stirring shaft is configured to rotate relative to the first stirring shaft, and a spiral structure is provided on the inner wall of the second stirring shaft. The stirring element includes a first plane and a second plane arranged opposite to each other. A stirring needle is provided on the first plane, and the second plane is connected to the second stirring shaft. The stirring element has a through discharge channel that connects to the first material channel. The second heat insulation component connects the second plane and the second stirring shaft respectively. The second heat insulation component has a second material channel that connects to the discharge channel and the first material channel respectively. The discharge channel includes a first opening located on the first plane and a second opening located on the second plane. The first opening is eccentrically arranged relative to the rotation axis of the stirring element, and the second opening is concentrically arranged with the rotation axis. as well as A laser unit is coaxially connected to the friction stir unit, and the laser unit is configured to emit a laser beam that passes through the laser channel to provide additive assistance to the friction stir unit via the laser beam.

2. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stirring friction unit further includes a first heat insulation component, which at least covers the inner wall of the first stirring shaft.

3. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The eccentricity H of the first orifice satisfies the relationship 0.5mm≤H≤1.5mm.

4. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The stirring friction unit further includes a stirring shell, which is hollow along its own axial direction and sleeved on the second stirring shaft. An airflow cavity is formed between at least a portion of the inner wall of the stirring shell and the outer wall of the second stirring shaft. A through first vent hole is provided on the stirring shell, which communicates with the airflow cavity. The first vent hole is configured to input inert gas into the airflow cavity. The stirring shell is bent towards the second stirring shaft from the side near the discharge end of the first material channel to form a blocking part. An airflow gap is formed between the blocking part and the outer wall of the second stirring shaft, which communicates with the airflow cavity.

5. The laser-based composite stir friction additive manufacturing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The stirring shell has a transmission opening; the stirring friction unit also includes a sealing component and a driving assembly. The sealing component is connected to the stirring shell and has a sealing cavity inside, which communicates with the transmission opening. The driving assembly includes a driving component, a first transmission gear, and a second transmission gear. The first transmission gear is disposed in the sealing cavity and connected to the driving end of the driving component. The second transmission gear is sleeved on the second stirring shaft. The second transmission gear and the first transmission gear are connected through the transmission opening.

6. The laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The laser unit includes a laser component and a laser connector. The laser component is coaxial with the friction stir unit. The laser component is configured to emit laser light that passes through the laser channel. The laser connector connects the laser component and the friction stir unit respectively, and is used to adjust the distance of the laser light emitted by the laser component so that the focal point of the laser light acts on the working surface.

7. A laser-based composite friction stir additive manufacturing device, characterized in that, It includes a driving device and a laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the driving end of the driving device is connected to the laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus.

8. A laser composite friction stir additive manufacturing method based on the laser composite friction stir additive apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Powder is conveyed through the first material channel between the inner wall of the second stirring shaft and the outer wall of the first stirring shaft, and stirred friction additive manufacturing is performed. Specifically, the laser unit, which is coaxially connected to the friction stir unit, emits a laser into the laser channel of the first stirring shaft to provide additive assistance for friction stir additive manufacturing.

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