Pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment and method

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of solid-state additive manufacturing technology, specifically providing a pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment, and method. The pressing device includes a first base and a pressing component, which is disposed on the first base. The pressing component has two working states: a first state and a second state. When the pressing component is in the first state, it can extend into a target channel for accommodating the bar stock. When the pressing component is in the second state, it can rotate relative to the first base to allow the bar stock to enter the target channel. The pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment, and method of this invention have high space utilization and high additive quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of solid-state additive manufacturing, and in particular to a pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment and method. Background Technology

[0002] Friction stir additive manufacturing (FSM) utilizes the rotation and movement of a stirring head to generate frictional heat with stacked thin sheets, causing plastic deformation and fusion of the materials. It offers advantages such as high manufacturing efficiency and excellent performance, making it suitable for additive manufacturing of large-volume components. Compared to traditional manufacturing techniques, FSM requires less heat input and has a narrower heat-affected zone. Furthermore, the dynamic recrystallization process based on friction stir can yield ultrafine grains, effectively reducing defects inherent in traditional manufacturing techniques. Therefore, FSM has become one of the most popular research areas in additive manufacturing.

[0003] Bar stock is one of the commonly used materials in friction stir additive manufacturing (FSM). When using bar stock in FSM, it is typically fed into the channel of the stirring spindle, causing it to rotate at the same speed as the spindle. Simultaneously, a pressure plate pushes the bar stock through the channel, providing forging force. The front end of the spindle cools, allowing the bar stock tip to be friction-coated. When a bar stock is completely used, or when the pressure plate reaches its limit, it is retracted. For rectangular bar stock, the bar stock needs to be manually placed into the spindle channel and aligned with the spindle phase before the pressure plate is pressed down to begin welding.

[0004] To facilitate material loading by workers, the existing clamping components require significant displacement to avoid obstacles. This results in a relatively loose structure and low space utilization. Furthermore, the long time required for the clamping components to avoid obstacles and reset increases the equipment's dwell time, which can easily lead to cooling defects in the additive body and affect the additive manufacturing quality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment and method provided in the embodiments of the present invention at least solve the problems of low space utilization and easy impact on the quality of additive bodies in existing pressing devices, and have high space utilization and high additive quality.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a pressing device, including a first base and a pressing member disposed on the first base. The pressing member has a working state including a first state and a second state. When the pressing member is in the first state, the pressing member can extend into a target channel for accommodating bar stock. When the pressing member is in the second state, the pressing member can rotate relative to the first base to avoid obstruction, so that the bar stock enters the target channel.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first seat body is provided with an opening, and a shaft is provided inside the opening; the pressing member is at least partially disposed inside the opening, the pressing member is provided with a strip-shaped hole, and the shaft is movably disposed inside the strip-shaped hole; wherein, when the shaft is at one end of the strip-shaped hole, the cavity wall of the opening abuts against the pressing member to prevent the pressing member from rotating around the shaft, and the pressing member enters the first state; when the shaft is at the other end of the strip-shaped hole, the pressing member enters the second state.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, a limiting part is provided on the first base body, the limiting part being used to limit the rotation angle of the pressure member when it is in the second state.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, a second seat is further included, which is sleeved on the first seat and the first seat is rotatable relative to the second seat; the second seat is configured to be movable along a first direction to drive the pressing member to extend into or out of the target channel.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, a locking member is further included. The locking member is disposed on the second base body. The locking member includes a locking drive member and a locking component. The driving end of the locking drive member is connected to the locking component. The locking drive member is used to drive the locking component to move along the first direction. The first base body is provided with a locking part corresponding to the locking component. In this embodiment, when the pressing member extends into the target channel, the locking component separates from the locking part; when the pressing member exits the target channel, the locking component engages with the locking part.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure member includes a push rod, which is clearance-fitted with the target channel; along the axial direction perpendicular to the push rod, the cross-sectional shape of both the push rod and the target channel is set as polygonal.

[0012] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, comprising a pressing device as described in any of the above claims, the pressing device being configured to be movable along a first direction; and a feeding device for setting a bar stock, the feeding device being disposed on one side of the pressing device and movable relative to the pressing device; wherein, when the feeding device moves above a target channel, the feeding device pushes the pressing device, the pressing device rotating relative to the first seat to avoid it, so that the bar stock enters the target channel.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the feeding device includes a material box configured to be movable along a second direction, a receiving space provided inside the material box for holding the bar stock, the axial direction of the bar stock being parallel to the first direction, and multiple bar stocks being arranged sequentially along the second direction; a pushing member disposed on the material box, the pushing member including a pushing drive member and a pushing component, the driving end of the pushing drive member being connected to the pushing component, the pushing drive member being used to drive the pushing component to move along the second direction, so that the pushing component moves the bar stock to the discharge port of the material box; and a discharging member disposed on the material box, the discharging member including a discharging drive member and a discharging component, the driving end of the discharging drive member being connected to the discharging component, the discharging drive member being used to drive the discharging component to move, so as to open or close the discharge port.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the feeding device includes a clamping member disposed on the material box, the clamping member including a clamping drive member and a clamping component, the drive end of the clamping drive member being connected to the clamping component, the clamping component being used to drive the clamping component to move along a third direction to loosen or press and position the bar stock; and a blocking member disposed on the material box, the blocking member and the pushing member being respectively disposed on both sides of the bar stock along the second direction; the blocking member including a blocking drive member and a blocking component, the drive end of the blocking drive member being connected to the blocking component, the blocking drive member being used to drive the blocking component to move to loosen or block the positioning of the bar stock.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, a stirring device is further included, wherein a guide member and the target channel are provided on the stirring device, the guide member is arranged around the channel opening of the target channel, and a guide slope is provided on the guide member.

[0016] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a method for friction stir additive manufacturing, comprising the following steps:

[0017] The bar stock is transported to the top of the target channel by the feeding device; the feeding device pushes the pressing component of the pressing device, and the pressing component rotates relative to the first seat of the pressing device to avoid it, so that the bar stock enters the target channel;

[0018] The feeding device moves away from the pressing device, and the pressing component rotates and resets relative to the first seat.

[0019] The pressing device provides an upsetting force to the bar stock in the target channel, thereby performing friction stirring additive manufacturing.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the above-described technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages:

[0021] The pressing device, friction stir additive manufacturing equipment, and method of this invention include a pressing device comprising a first base and a pressing component, the pressing component being rotatable relative to the first base. When the bar stock in the target channel is exhausted, or when the pressing component reaches its pressing limit position, the pressing component can rotate relative to the first base, creating space to allow the bar stock to pass through, facilitating its entry into the target channel. On one hand, the space required for the pressing component to rotate is small, effectively improving the space utilization of the device compared to a displacement-avoidance structure, resulting in a more compact structure for each component. On the other hand, the time required for rotation, avoidance, and reset actions is relatively short, effectively reducing the waiting time required for the stirring device during feeding, lowering the probability of cooling defects in the additive body, and ensuring high additive quality. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 This is one of the partial structural schematic diagrams of the pressing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a second partial structural schematic diagram of the pressing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is one of the partial cross-sectional structural schematic diagrams of the pressing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a second partial cross-sectional view of the pressing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the pressing device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 7 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the material box in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the material box in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the main shaft cover in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0035] D1, First direction; D2, Second direction; D3, Third direction; 10, First seat; 11, Opening mouth; 12, Shaft; 13, Limiting slope; 14, Limiting component; 15, Locking part; 20, Pressure component; 21, Push rod; 22, Pressure seat; 221, Strip hole; 30, Second seat; 312, Locking component; 40, Bar stock; 51, Material box; 511, Reception space; 5111, Discharge port; 5112 5113. Feed inlet; 5121. Limiting groove; 5122. Pushing seat; 5122. Pushing screw; 52. Pushing component; 521. Pushing drive component; 522. Pushing part; 532. Discharging part; 54. Clamping component; 541. Clamping drive component; 542. Clamping part; 552. Stopping part; 56. Box drive component; 61. Main shaft cover; 611. Target channel; 612. Guide component; 6121. Guide slope. Detailed Implementation

[0036] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present invention can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0037] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0038] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0039] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the present invention provides a pressing device, including a first base 10 and a pressing component 20.

[0040] The first base 10 is used to mount the pressure member 20 and to connect with the other components. Those skilled in the art can set its shape and structure according to actual needs; preferably, the first base 10 is set as a shaft-like structure.

[0041] The clamping element 20 provides forging force to the bar stock 40 to cooperate with the stirring head for friction stir additive manufacturing. The clamping element 20 is mounted on the first base 10 and is rotatably connected to the first base 10. Those skilled in the art can set the specific rotatable connection method according to actual needs, such as a hinge.

[0042] The working states of the clamping element 20 include a first state and a second state. When the clamping element 20 is in the first state, it can extend into the target channel 611. The target channel 611 is provided on the stirring device and is used to accommodate the bar stock 40. The stirring device is prior art and includes a stirring spindle, on which the target channel 611 and a stirring head are provided. During friction stir additive manufacturing, the clamping element 20 extends into the target channel 611, contacts and pushes the bar stock 40, providing a forging force to the bar stock 40 to cooperate with the stirring head for additive manufacturing.

[0043] When the pressure member 20 is in the second state, the pressure member 20 can rotate relative to the first base 10 to avoid it. Those skilled in the art can configure the pressure member 20 according to actual needs, so that the pressure member 20 can actively rotate to avoid it, or passively rotate to avoid it.

[0044] For example, when the current bar stock 40 is exhausted, or when the pressing member 20 reaches its pressing limit position, the rotation of the stirring device is stopped, and the pressing member 20 is removed from the target channel 611. Then, simply moving the pressing member 20 into the second state and rotating it relative to the first seat 10 creates enough space to allow the bar stock 40 to pass and enter the target channel 611. After loading is complete, the pressing member 20 is rotated back to its first state, and then inserted into the target channel 611 to contact the bar stock 40. Afterward, friction stirring can continue.

[0045] The pressing device of the present invention includes a first base 10 and a pressing component 20, which is rotatable relative to the first base 10. When the bar stock 40 in the target channel 611 is exhausted, or when the pressing component 20 reaches its pressing limit position, the pressing component 20 can rotate relative to the first base 10 to create space to allow the bar stock 40 to enter the target channel 611. On the one hand, the space required for the pressing component 20 to rotate is small, which can effectively improve the space utilization of the device compared with the displacement avoidance structure, making the structure of each component more compact. On the other hand, the time required for rotation avoidance and reset actions is relatively short, which can effectively reduce the waiting time required by the stirring device during feeding, reduce the probability of cooling defects in the additive body, and ensure high additive quality.

[0046] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of the pressing device of the present invention, the first base 10 is provided with an opening 11, and a shaft 12 is provided inside the opening 11. The pressing component 20 is at least partially disposed inside the opening 11. Preferably, the pressing component 20 includes a pressing seat 22 and a push rod 21 that are detachably connected. When the pressing component 20 is assembled with the first base 10, a portion of the pressing seat 22 extends into the opening 11, and the push rod 21 is disposed at the end of the pressing seat 22 opposite to the first base 10, so as to press the material and provide forging force for the bar stock 40. By setting a split structure, it is convenient for production processing and maintenance. Preferably, the pressing seat 22 is provided with a flange structure to facilitate abutment against the first base 10 and achieve positioning.

[0047] The pressure base 22 is provided with a strip-shaped hole 221, and the shaft 12 is movably disposed within the strip-shaped hole 221. For example, the pressure base 22 is rotatable about the shaft 12, and the pressure base 22 is movable relative to the shaft 12 so that the shaft 12 slides between the two ends of the strip-shaped hole 221.

[0048] With the shaft 12 positioned at one end of the slotted hole 221, the cavity wall of the opening 11 abuts against the pressure seat 22 to prevent the pressure member 20 from rotating around the shaft 12, and the pressure member 20 enters the first state. Preferably, the portion of the pressure seat 22 extending into the opening 11 and the opening 11 itself are both configured as square structures. This structure effectively prevents rotation without affecting the sliding of the shaft 12 along the slotted hole 221. Preferably, with the pressure member 20 in the first state, the shaft 12 does not contact the hole wall of the slotted hole 221.

[0049] With the shaft 12 at the other end of the slot 221, the clamping member 20 enters the second state. At this time, the clamping member 20 can rotate relative to the shaft 12 to avoid the bar stock 40 or reset. By setting this structure, the clamping member 20 can be well limited and rotated to avoid or reset relative to the first seat 10. The structure is simple, reliable, and has high space utilization.

[0050] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of the pressing device of the present invention, a limiting part is provided on the first base 10. The limiting part is used to limit the rotation angle of the pressing member 20 when it is in the second state, so as to achieve precise positioning of the push rod 21.

[0051] Preferably, the limiting part includes a limiting inclined surface 13, which is disposed at the opening of the opening 11. By providing the limiting inclined surface 13, when the pressing member 20 rotates to avoid an obstacle, the pressing seat 22 will abut against the limiting inclined surface 13, thereby limiting the maximum rotation angle of the pressing member 20. Preferably, the first seat 10 is also provided with a limiting member 14, which and the limiting inclined surface 13 are respectively disposed on both sides of the shaft 12. By providing the limiting member 14, when the pressing member 20 rotates to reset, the pressing seat 22 will abut against the limiting member 14, thereby preventing the pressing member 20 from rotating to the other side when resetting, so as to accurately position, quickly switch states, and improve work efficiency.

[0052] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments of the pressing device of the present invention, a second seat 30 is further included. The second seat 30 is sleeved on the first seat 10, and the first seat 10 is rotatable relative to the second seat 30. Those skilled in the art can set specific rotational connection structures according to actual needs. For example, the two are rotatably connected by setting bearings, keys, and other components.

[0053] The second seat 30 is configured to be movable along a first direction D1 to drive the pressure member 20 into or out of the target channel 611. Preferably, the second seat 30 is connected to a driving component such as a cylinder. Taking a cylinder as an example, during operation, the cylinder drives the second seat 30 to move along the first direction D1, thereby driving the first seat 10 connected to the second seat 30 and the pressure member 20 connected to the first seat 10 to move together, into or out of the target channel 611. When the push rod 21 extends into the target channel 611 for friction stir additive manufacturing and synchronous rotation of the push rod 21 is required, the first seat 10 can also rotate relative to the second seat 30 so that the push rod 21 rotates synchronously.

[0054] Furthermore, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the pressing device of the present invention further includes a locking element in some embodiments. By setting the locking element, when using a bar stock 40, such as a square bar stock 40, which requires the push rod 21 to rotate synchronously with the stirring device for additive manufacturing, it can be ensured that after the push rod 21 and the target channel 611 are separated, their phases are accurate and the push rod 21 can smoothly enter the target channel 611.

[0055] Specifically, a locking element is disposed on the second base 30, and the locking element includes a locking drive element and a locking component 312. For example, the locking drive element is configured as a cylinder; the locking drive element is not shown in the figure. The driving end of the locking drive element is connected to the locking component 312, and the locking drive element is used to drive the locking component 312 to move along the first direction D1. The first base 10 is provided with a locking part 15 corresponding to the locking component 312.

[0056] When the pressing component 20 extends into the target channel 611, the locking component 312 separates from the locking part 15. At this time, the first seat 10 can rotate relative to the second seat 30, which satisfies the requirement for synchronous rotation of the push rod 21 when using square bar material 40 for additive manufacturing.

[0057] When the pressure member 20 exits the target channel 611, the locking member 312 engages with the locking part 15 to prevent the first seat 10 from rotating relative to the second seat 30 due to external interference, thus avoiding phase shift and effectively preventing damage to the push rod 21 due to phase difference when it moves closer to the target channel 611 along the first direction D1. Preferably, the locking part 15 is configured as a locking groove. Preferably, two locking grooves are provided opposite each other for positioning purposes.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of the pressing device of the present invention, the push rod 21 and the target channel 611 are clearance-fitted. Along the axial direction perpendicular to the push rod 21, the cross-sectional shape of both the push rod 21 and the target channel 611 is polygonal. Preferably, both are square to meet the requirements of friction stir additive manufacturing of the square bar stock 40.

[0059] When the square bar 40 is manufactured by friction stir additive manufacturing, the stirring device rotates and the wall of the target channel 611 applies a force to the push rod 21, so that the push rod 21 can rotate synchronously while moving along the first direction D1, thereby providing the upsetting force required for additive manufacturing and ensuring good additive manufacturing effect.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the present invention also provides a friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, including a pressing device as described in any of the above embodiments, and a feeding device. Since the friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus of the present invention includes the pressing device described in the above embodiments, it also possesses all the beneficial effects described herein, and will not be repeated here.

[0061] The feeding device is used to hold the bar stock 40. The feeding device is located on one side of the pressing device and is movable relative to the pressing device. Those skilled in the art can configure the movement method of the feeding device according to actual needs, such as by using a cylinder.

[0062] When the feeding device moves above the target channel 611, it pushes the pressing component 20, which rotates relative to the first seat 10 to avoid it, so that the bar stock 40 enters the target channel 611. After feeding is completed, the feeding device moves away from the target channel 611, and the pressing component 20 loses the force of the feeding device and resets under the action of gravity, so as to carry out subsequent pressing, stirring, and friction additive manufacturing.

[0063] During friction stir additive manufacturing, a large amount of heat is generated at the target channel 611. If workers directly feed the material, it can easily cause mechanical injury or burns. This structure addresses these issues: First, it allows workers to safely feed the material away from the target channel 611, significantly improving equipment safety. Second, it saves space and observation holes required for manual feeding, increasing the structural strength of the equipment and ensuring high additive manufacturing accuracy. Finally, it enables semi-continuous solid-state additive manufacturing, effectively improving additive manufacturing efficiency. Furthermore, it facilitates passive rotation and repositioning of the pressure component 20, improving space utilization and reducing the time required to perform corresponding actions.

[0064] Preferably, the feeding device is provided with a pusher to push the push rod 21 and rotate it to avoid obstruction. Preferably, the pusher is a pusher screw 5122. Preferably, the feeding device is also provided with a pusher seat 5121, and the pusher screw 5122 is threadedly connected to the pusher seat 5121 so as to adjust the relative positions of the two to meet different feeding avoidance requirements.

[0065] In some embodiments of the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment of the present invention, the feeding device includes a material box 51, a pusher 52, and a discharge device.

[0066] The feed hopper 51 is used to hold the bar stock 40. (Refer to...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the material bin 51 is configured to be movable along the second direction D2. Preferably, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are perpendicular. Preferably, the material bin 51 is connected to the drive end of the bin drive member 56, and the bin drive member 56 drives the material bin 51 to reciprocate along the second direction D2. Preferably, the bin drive member 56 is a cylinder. Preferably, the material bin 51 is also provided with a guide rail to guide the movement of the material bin 51. Preferably, a position sensor is also provided to detect the position of the material bin 51 and ensure its movement accuracy. Preferably, an interlock is also provided to lock the bin drive member 56 and the drive member connected to the second base 30. When the push rod 21 extends into the target channel 611, the bin drive member 56 is locked and cannot approach the target channel 611 to load material; when the material bin 51 is loading material, the push rod 21 is locked and cannot approach the target channel 611, effectively improving the safety and reliability of the equipment.

[0067] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the material bin 51 has a receiving space 511 for holding the bar stock 40. The receiving space 511 has a discharge port 5111 and a feed port 5112, so that the operator can fill the bar stock 40 through the feed port 5112 and the bar stock 40 can be discharged from the discharge port 5111 and enter the target channel 611. Preferably, the axial direction of the bar stock 40 is parallel to the first direction D1. When multiple bars stock 40 are provided, the multiple bars stock 40 are arranged sequentially along the second direction D2 to improve space utilization. By setting this structure, the working time of the equipment at one time can be effectively extended.

[0068] The pusher 52 is used to push the bar stock 40 within the receiving space 511. Specifically, the pusher 52 is disposed on the hopper 51 and includes a pusher drive 521 and a pusher component 522. For example, the pusher drive is configured as a cylinder. The drive end of the pusher drive 521 is connected to the pusher component 522, and the pusher drive 521 drives the pusher component 522 to move along the second direction D2, so that the pusher component 522 moves the bar stock 40 to the outlet 5111 of the hopper 51.

[0069] The feeding component is used to open or close the discharge port 5111. Specifically, the feeding component is disposed on the material box 51 and includes a feeding drive and a feeding part 532. For example, the feeding drive is a cylinder; the feeding drive is not shown in the figure. The driving end of the feeding drive is connected to the feeding part 532, and the feeding drive is used to drive the feeding part 532 to move, so as to open or close the discharge port 5111. When the discharge port 5111 is closed, the bar stock 40 cannot be discharged from the discharge port 5111. At this time, the bar stock 40 can be moved to the position by the pusher 52. After the material box 51 reaches the loading position, the feeding component opens the discharge port 5111, and the bar stock 40 is discharged from the discharge port 5111 and enters the target channel 611, after which the corresponding friction stir additive manufacturing can be performed.

[0070] Preferably, the material bin 51 is also equipped with a residual material detector. The residual material detector is existing technology, and it sends a signal to remind the operator to refill the material bin when the bar stock 40 in the material bin 51 is used up.

[0071] Furthermore, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments of the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment of the present invention, the feeding device includes a clamping component 54 and a blocking component.

[0072] The clamping member 54 is used to clamp the positioning bar stock 40. Specifically, the clamping member 54 is disposed on the material box 51, and the clamping member 54 includes a clamping drive member 541 and a clamping component 542. Exemplarily, the clamping drive member 541 is configured as a cylinder. The driving end of the clamping drive member 541 is connected to the clamping component 542, which is used to drive the clamping component 542 to move along a third direction D3 to release or clamp the positioning bar stock 40. Preferably, the third direction D3 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, respectively.

[0073] For example, during feeding, the clamping member 542 presses down the bars 40 other than the first bar 40, so that these bars 40 are separated from the first bar 40, ensuring that the remaining bars 40 will not tip over after the first bar 40 is discharged from the discharge port 5111; in other cases, the clamping member 542 is separated from the bars 40 so that the bars 40 can move.

[0074] Preferably, the material box 51 is also provided with two limiting grooves 5113, which are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction D1, and the two axial ends of the bar stock 40 are respectively arranged in the corresponding limiting grooves 5113. When the clamping member 542 separates from the bar stock 40, the bar stock 40 can slide along the limiting grooves 5113 under the push of the pusher member 52; when the clamping member 542 abuts against it, the bar stock 40 is pressed and positioned.

[0075] A stopper is used to block the bar stock 40 from reaching its designated position, ensuring it falls precisely into the target channel 611 and improving feeding accuracy. Specifically, the stopper is mounted on the hopper 51, and the stopper and pusher 52 are respectively positioned on both sides of the bar stock 40 along the second direction D2. The stopper includes a stopper drive and a stopper component 552. Preferably, the stopper drive is a cylinder; the stopper drive is not shown in the figure. The drive end of the stopper drive is connected to the stopper component 552, and the stopper drive is used to drive the stopper component 552 to move, thereby releasing or blocking the positioned bar stock 40.

[0076] By setting a stopper, the stopper 552 can separate from the first bar 40 when releasing the bar 40, allowing the bar 40 to smoothly enter the target channel 611 and improving feeding efficiency. When release is not required, the stopper 552 blocks and positions the first bar 40, thereby cooperating with the pusher 52 to achieve positioning and limiting of the bar 40. Preferably, the stopper and the release are driven synchronously. Preferably, multiple stoppers are provided, arranged sequentially and at intervals along the first direction D1.

[0077] By integrating the above functional components into the material box 51, modular installation can be facilitated, the installation and debugging process can be simplified, the positional accuracy of the bar stock 40 can be well achieved, and the equipment failure rate can be reduced.

[0078] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 11 As shown, the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment of the present invention, in some embodiments, further includes a stirring device for friction stir. Preferably, the stirring device includes a spindle cover 61, on which a guide member 612 and a target channel 611 are provided. The guide member 612 is arranged around the opening of the target channel 611. The guide member 612 is provided with a guide ramp 6121, which is inclined to facilitate the insertion of the push rod 21 into the target channel 611, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0079] The present invention also provides a method for friction stir additive manufacturing, comprising the following steps:

[0080] The bar stock 40 is transported to the target channel 611 via the feeding device. The feeding device pushes the pressing component 20 of the pressing device, and the pressing component 20 rotates relative to the first seat 10 of the pressing device to avoid it, so that the bar stock 40 enters the target channel 611.

[0081] The feeding device moves away from the pressing device, and the pressing component 20 rotates and resets relative to the first seat 10.

[0082] The bar stock 40 in the target channel 611 is provided with an upsetting force by a pressing device to perform friction stirring additive manufacturing.

[0083] Working principle:

[0084] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, during operation, the worker places the corresponding number of square bars 40 into the receiving space 511 of the material box 51 through the feed port 5112. The two ends of the bars 40 are respectively set in the limiting grooves 5113.

[0085] The pressing device moves along the first direction D1 and away from the stirring device, causing the top rod 21 to separate from the target channel 611. At the same time, the locking drive drives the locking component 312 to engage with the locking part and lock the first seat 10 to prevent the first seat 10 from rotating relative to the second seat 30 due to external interference and to avoid phase shift.

[0086] Driven by the box drive component 56, the material box 51 moves along the second direction D2 and approaches the stirring device. During the movement, the push screw 5122 on the material box 51 pushes the push rod 21, causing the push rod 21 in the second state to rotate relative to the first seat 10 to make way and create a certain space to avoid the bar material 40, so that the bar material 40 can enter the target channel 611.

[0087] When the discharge port 5111 of the material box 51 reaches directly above the target channel 611, the first bar 40 in the receiving space 511 has been pushed into place by the pusher 52, while the remaining bars 40 are pressed by the clamping member 54. The discharge drive and the stop drive are activated simultaneously, causing the discharge member 532 and the stop member 552 to separate from the first bar 40, eliminating the friction between the first bar 40 and the second bar 40. The first bar 40 is discharged from the discharge port 5111 and falls into the target channel 611.

[0088] After the bar stock 40 falls into the target channel 611, the material box 51, driven by the box drive component 56, moves along the second direction D2 and away from the mixing device. During the movement, the feeding component and the blocking component reset, preparing for the next bar stock 40 to be stopped; the clamping component 54 separates from the bar stock 40 to allow the bar stock 40 to move. The remaining bar stock 40 moves into position along the limiting groove 5113 under the drive of the pushing component 52. The material box 51 completes one feeding action.

[0089] As the material bin 51 moves away, the push rod 21, having lost the force of the push screw 5122, resets under gravity, its axis becoming parallel to the axis of the target channel 611. Driven by the corresponding driving component, the pressing device moves along the first direction D1 and approaches the stirring device. Under the action of the locking component, the push rod 21 aligns with and enters the target channel 611, abutting against the bar stock 40.

[0090] After the locking drive component disengages the locking component 312 from the locking part, the stirring device starts rotating to perform friction additive manufacturing. During the manufacturing process, the pressing device remains moving to provide forging force for the bar stock 40.

[0091] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0092] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0093] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus, characterized in that, include: A pressing device is configured to be movable along a first direction. The pressing device includes a first base and a pressing member. The first base has an opening, and a shaft is disposed within the opening. The pressing member is disposed on the first base, at least partially disposed within the opening, and has a strip-shaped hole. The shaft is movably disposed within the strip-shaped hole. The pressing member has a first state and a second state. When the pressing member is in the first state, it can extend into a target channel to accommodate bar stock, the axial direction of which is parallel to the first direction. When the pressing member is in the second state, it can rotate relative to the first base to allow the bar stock to enter the target channel. When the shaft is at one end of the strip hole, the cavity wall of the opening abuts against the pressing member to prevent the pressing member from rotating around the shaft, and the pressing member enters the first state; With the shaft body at the other end of the strip hole, the pressure member enters the second state; A feeding device is used to set the bar stock; the feeding device is located on one side of the pressing device and is movable relative to the pressing device. When the feeding device moves above the target channel, the feeding device pushes the pressing member, and the pressing member rotates relative to the first seat to avoid it, so that the bar stock enters the target channel.

2. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first base is provided with a limiting part, which is used to limit the rotation angle of the pressure member when it is in the second state.

3. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A second seat body is fitted onto the first seat body, and the first seat body is rotatable relative to the second seat body; The second seat is configured to be movable along a first direction to drive the pressing element into or out of the target channel.

4. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A locking member is disposed on the second base body. The locking member includes a locking drive member and a locking component. The driving end of the locking drive member is connected to the locking component. The locking drive member is used to drive the locking component to move along the first direction. The first base body is provided with a locking part corresponding to the locking component. Wherein, when the pressing element extends into the target channel, the locking component separates from the locking portion; When the pressing component exits the target channel, the locking component engages with the locking part.

5. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressure component includes a push rod, which is clearance-fitted with the target channel; along the axial direction perpendicular to the push rod, the cross-sectional shape of both the push rod and the target channel is set as polygonal.

6. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device includes: A hopper is configured to be movable along a second direction. The hopper has a receiving space for holding the bar stock. When multiple bar stocks are provided, the multiple bar stocks are arranged sequentially along the second direction. A pusher component, disposed on the material box, includes a pusher drive and a pusher part. The drive end of the pusher drive is connected to the pusher part. The pusher drive drives the pusher part to move along the second direction, so that the pusher part moves the bar stock to the outlet of the material box; and A feeding component is disposed on the material box. The feeding component includes a feeding drive and a feeding part. The driving end of the feeding drive is connected to the feeding part. The feeding drive is used to drive the feeding part to move so as to open or close the discharge port.

7. The friction stir additive manufacturing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The feeding device includes: A clamping component, disposed on the material box, includes a clamping drive and a clamping part. The drive end of the clamping drive is connected to the clamping part, and the clamping part is used to drive the clamping part to move in a third direction to loosen or clamp the positioned bar stock; and A material stop is provided on the material box, and the material stop and the material pusher are respectively provided on both sides of the bar stock along the second direction; the material stop includes a material stop driving member and a material stop component, the driving end of the material stop driving member is connected to the material stop component, and the material stop driving member is used to drive the material stop component to move, so as to release or block the positioning of the bar stock.

8. The friction stir additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A stirring device is provided with a guide and a target channel. The guide is arranged around the opening of the target channel and has a guide slope.

9. A method for friction stir additive manufacturing, applied to the friction stir additive manufacturing equipment as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The bar stock is transported to the top of the target channel via a feeding device; The feeding device pushes the pressing component of the pressing device, and the pressing component rotates relative to the first seat of the pressing device to avoid it, so that the bar stock enters the target channel; The feeding device moves away from the pressing device, and the pressing component rotates and resets relative to the first seat. The pressing device provides an upsetting force to the bar stock in the target channel, thereby performing friction stirring additive manufacturing.

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