A feeding device for metal powder processing

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing metal consumable processing, and specifically relates to a feeding device for metal powder processing, including a material cylinder, a screening mechanism, and a heating unit; the screening mechanism includes a filter cylinder and a stirring assembly rotatably arranged inside the material cylinder, the filter cylinder is annular, and the filter cylinder includes a bottom plate and a filter screen; a plurality of discharge holes arranged on the bottom plate; a collection bin arranged inside the material cylinder; by heating the metal powder through the heating unit, cooperating with the stirring of the powder particles by the stirring assembly, and the collision and dispersion between the particles moving outwards and the filter screen, the agglomerated powder can be dispersed, the problems of powder moisture absorption and agglomeration can be improved, the uniformity and fluidity of the metal powder can be improved, thereby improving the feeding effect; by arranging a filter screen to filter and screen the powder particles, after opening the discharge holes, the large-sized particles fall into the collection bin, realizing the function of separately collecting the large-sized particles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of 3D printing metal consumable processing, and specifically relates to a feeding device for metal powder processing. Background Art

[0002] In 3D printing technology, metal powder is the material basis for realizing the forming of metal parts. The quality of metal powder is crucial for the forming quality of 3D printing. Therefore, during the 3D printing process, when using metal powder as a consumable for processing, attention needs to be paid to the quality control of metal powder feeding to ensure that the characteristics such as the particle size, shape, and fluidity of the metal powder meet the requirements of 3D printing.

[0003] A patent application with the publication number CN112247159B discloses a feeding device for metal powder processing, including a feeding mechanism, a separation mechanism, and a dispersion mechanism. After cooperating with each other, it can separate and scatter the metal powder, and then through the cooperation of a grinding disc, grinding blocks, and a sieve plate, the metal powder is screened and dispersed to avoid the accumulation and caking of metal powder and ensure the subsequent finished product processing effect.

[0004] The above technical solution still has some problems in practical applications. It disperses and screens the metal powder before feeding. After screening, powder particles with unqualified particle sizes can be filtered out, and after dispersion, the problem that the powder does not meet the shape requirements due to caking can be solved. However, the reason for the caking of metal powder is not only accumulation but also possible moisture absorption of the powder. Affected by the external working environment or storage environment, when the external humidity is high, the metal powder is prone to moisture absorption. After the powder is moistened, water will adsorb on the surface of the powder particles to form a liquid bridge, increasing the cohesive force between the particles and resulting in a decrease in the fluidity of the metal powder, thus affecting the subsequent 3D printing processing effect. The above technical solution does not handle the fluidity problem of metal powder, and the use effect is limited.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides a feeding device for metal powder processing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In order to make up for the deficiencies of the prior art and solve at least one technical problem proposed in the background art.

[0007] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve its technical problems is as follows: A feeding device for metal powder processing according to the present invention includes a material cylinder, and a feeding pipe and a discharging pipe are respectively provided at the top and bottom of the material cylinder. It also includes a screening mechanism and a heating unit;

[0008] The screening mechanism includes a filter cylinder and a stirring assembly rotatably arranged inside the material cylinder. The filter cylinder is annular and includes a bottom plate and a filter screen. A number of discharge holes are arranged on the bottom plate. A collection bin is arranged inside the material cylinder and is located below the bottom plate. After the discharge holes are opened, the powder particles inside the filter cylinder fall into the collection bin through the discharge holes. A gap is left between the outer side wall of the filter cylinder and the inner side wall of the material cylinder. The heating unit is arranged inside the material cylinder and is located outside the material cylinder.

[0009] Preferably, the stirring assembly includes an annular support plate rotatably arranged inside the material cylinder, and a number of stirring rods fixedly connected to the bottom end of the annular support plate. The feed pipe, the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly are coaxial, and the annular support plate is located between the feed pipe and the filter screen.

[0010] Preferably, the discharge holes are close to the inner ring side of the filter screen. The screening mechanism further includes a number of plug plates movably inserted on the bottom plate for sealing the discharge holes, and a tension spring arranged on the bottom plate for driving the plug plates to move towards the center of the filter cylinder. The plug plates are staggered from the discharge holes under the pulling of the tension spring.

[0011] Preferably, the bottom end of the collection bin is conical. A recycling mechanism is further included, which includes a collection bag arranged at the bottom end of the collection bin. The collection bag is concave-shaped. A sealing seat fixedly connected to the bottom of the collection bin covers the outside of the collection bag. A guiding pipe is arranged inside the material cylinder. The bottom opening of the guiding pipe is located above the collection bag, and the top opening of the guiding pipe is located outside the material cylinder. A number of impact rods rotatably arranged inside the sealing seat generate an upward impact force on the collection bag after rotation, so that the powder particles staying on the collection bag move upward into the guiding pipe and are discharged through the guiding pipe.

[0012] Preferably, the upper half of the guiding pipe is inclined. The top end of the impact rod abuts against the lower part of the collection bag, and the bottom end of the impact rod is close to the center of the bottom end of the collection bag. The recycling mechanism further includes a movable pipe slidably arranged at the bottom end of the guiding pipe. A gap is left between the bottom end of the movable pipe and the collection bag. A number of the impact rods are evenly distributed annularly along the movable pipe. After the movable pipe moves downward, it contacts the top end of the impact rod and drives the impact rod to rotate, so that the bottom end of the impact rod moves upward and impacts the collection bag.

[0013] Preferably, it also includes a driving mechanism, which includes: a support fixedly connected to the guide tube; an outer plate slidably arranged on the support; an inner rod movably inserted in the outer plate, the bottom end of the inner rod is fixedly connected to the movable tube; a ring plate fixedly connected to the inner rod; a main spring arranged between the ring plate and the outer plate; and a baffle plate slidably arranged on the support, the baffle plate blocking the bottom of the ring plate.

[0014] Preferably, the driving mechanism further comprises: a pushing spring provided on the support for pushing the baffle plate closer to the inner rod; and a pressure plate fixed to the outer plate, the pressure plate being used to push the baffle plate away from the inner rod after the pressure plate moves downward.

[0015] Preferably, a limit plate is provided on the top of the inner rod, and when the outer plate moves up, the inner rod is driven to move up through the limit plate, a slope is provided on the top of the ring side of the ring plate, and a bevel is provided on the bottom end of the pressure plate.

[0016] Preferably, the collecting bin is made of heat-conducting material, and the driving mechanism further comprises a temperature-changing component fixedly connected to the top end of the support for driving the outer plate to move up and down.

[0017] Preferably, the driving mechanism is provided with a plurality of groups, and the plurality of groups of driving mechanisms are evenly distributed in a ring along the guide tube.

[0018] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0019] 1. The metal powder processing and feeding device described in the present invention dries the metal powder by heating the heating unit, and cooperates with the stirring component to stir and break up the powder particles, and the particles move outward and collide and disperse with the filter screen, so as to break up the agglomerated powder, which can not only improve the problems of powder moisture and agglomeration, but also improve the uniformity and fluidity of the metal powder, thereby improving the feeding effect; by setting the filter screen to filter and screen the powder particles, the larger powder particles will be blocked in the filter barrel, and after opening the discharge hole, the large-sized particles will fall downward into the collection bin through the discharge hole, thus realizing the function of separately collecting the large-sized particles without affecting the feeding work of the powder particles of normal size, and is easy to use.

[0020] 2. The metal powder processing and feeding device described in the present invention has a recovery mechanism. After the inner rod drives the movable tube to move downward quickly, the movable tube hits the impact rod, causing the impact rod to rotate. After the impact rod rotates, it generates an upward impact force on the center of the collecting bag, causing the large-sized particles remaining on the collecting bag to move upward quickly, and then the large-sized particles move to the outside of the barrel along the guide tube. In this way, the function of automatically discharging the screened large-sized particles to the outside of the barrel is achieved without affecting the feeding work of normal-sized powder particles, so that these large-sized particles can be recovered.

[0021] 3. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to the present invention realizes the function of automatically screening metal powder every time the feeding work is carried out by setting a driving mechanism and cooperating with the temperature change in the feeding cylinder, and automatically discharging the screened large-size particles to the outside of the cylinder for recycling after the feeding is completed. It not only has a high degree of automation, but also uses the heat in the feeding work as power, improving the thermal energy utilization rate. There is no need to set an additional electrical driving system, saving the use cost, simplifying the structure, and being convenient to use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view of Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 is a half-sectional view of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the feed pipe, the stirring assembly and the filter cylinder;

[0026] Figure 4 is an exploded view from below of the filter cylinder and the plug plate;

[0027] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the cooperation of the guide pipe, the movable pipe and the driving mechanism;

[0028] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the movable pipe and a single set of driving mechanisms;

[0029] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the outer plate, the inner rod and the temperature-changing member;

[0030] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the movable pipe, the collection bin and the impact rod;

[0031] Figure 9 is a bottom view of the collection bag and the impact rod;

[0032] In the figure: 1, cylinder; 2, feed pipe; 3, discharge pipe; 4, screening mechanism; 41, stirring assembly; 411, annular support plate; 412, stirring rod; 42, bottom plate; 43, filter screen; 44, discharge hole; 45, collection bin; 46, plug plate; 47, tension spring; 5, heating unit; 6, recycling mechanism; 61, collection bag; 62, sealing seat; 63, guide pipe; 64, impact rod; 65, movable pipe; 7, driving mechanism; 71, support; 72, outer plate; 73, inner rod; 731, ring plate; 732, main spring; 733, limiting plate; 74, baffle; 741, pushing spring; 75, pressing plate; 76, temperature-changing member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] In order to make the technical means, creative features, achieved purposes and functions realized by the present invention easy to understand, the present invention will be further described below in conjunction with specific embodiments. Embodiment 1

[0034] As Figures 1-8 shown, a feeding device for metal powder processing according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a material cylinder 1, a feeding pipe 2 and a discharging pipe 3 are respectively provided at the top and bottom of the material cylinder 1, and further includes a screening mechanism 4 and a heating unit 5;

[0035] The screening mechanism 4 includes: a filter cylinder rotatably arranged inside the material cylinder 1 and a stirring assembly 41. The filter cylinder is annular, and the filter cylinder includes a bottom plate 42 and a filter screen 43; a plurality of discharge holes 44 provided on the bottom plate 42: a collection bin 45 arranged inside the material cylinder 1. The collection bin 45 is located below the bottom plate 42. After the discharge holes 44 are opened, the powder particles inside the filter cylinder fall into the collection bin 45 through the discharge holes 44; a gap is left between the outer side wall of the filter cylinder and the inner side wall of the material cylinder 1, and the heating unit 5 is arranged inside the material cylinder 1, and the heating unit 5 is located outside the material cylinder 1.

[0036] Specifically, the top of the feeding pipe 2 is equipped with an openable cover plate. Both the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly 41 can rotate horizontally. Preferably but not limited to, the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly 41 rotate in opposite directions. Preferably but not limited to, the collection bin 45 is fixedly connected to the material cylinder 1, and the collection bin 45 is hermetically connected to the filter screen 43. According to specific situations, the collection bin 45 can also be fixedly installed at the bottom end of the filter cylinder; this feeding device for metal powder processing is installed on a 3D printer for use, and the bottom end of the discharging pipe 3 is connected to the 3D printer for conveying metal powder to the 3D printer. Of course, a feeding device such as a screw feeder can also be installed at the bottom end of the discharging pipe 3.

[0037] During use, start the rotation of the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly 41, start the heating unit 5 to heat the inside of the material cylinder 1. After closing the discharge holes 44, pour the metal powder into the feeding pipe 2. The powder enters the filter cylinder along the feeding pipe 2. The filter cylinder drives the powder to rotate. Under the action of centrifugal force, the powder moves outwards. The powder with qualified size passes through the filter screen 43 and falls downwards, and flows into the 3D printer through the discharge holes 44. In this way, the function of feeding the 3D printer is realized.

[0038] Generally speaking, the fluidity of metal powder will be improved as the temperature rises. This is because the temperature rise will increase the internal energy of the powder particles and weaken the adsorption force between the particles. During the use of the feeding device, the metal powder is dried by heating the heating unit 5, and the stirring and breaking of the powder particles by the stirring component 41, and the collision and dispersion between the particles moving outward and the filter screen 43 can break up the agglomerated powder, which can not only improve the problem of moisture and agglomeration of the powder, but also improve the uniformity and fluidity of the metal powder, thereby improving the feeding effect; by setting the filter screen 43 to filter and screen the powder particles, the larger powder particles will be blocked in the filter cylinder, and these particles will stay on the bottom plate 42 and close to the filter screen 43. After opening the discharge hole 44, the large-sized particles fall downward into the collection bin 45 through the discharge hole 44. In this way, the function of collecting large-sized particles separately is realized without affecting the feeding of normal-sized powder particles, which is convenient to use.

[0039] like Figures 2-3 As shown, the stirring assembly 41 includes: an annular support plate 411 rotatably arranged in the barrel 1; a plurality of stirring rods 412 fixedly connected to the bottom end of the annular support plate 411; the feed pipe 2, the filter barrel and the stirring assembly 41 are coaxial, and the annular support plate 411 is located between the feed pipe 2 and the filter screen 43.

[0040] Specifically, the filter cartridge, the stirring assembly 41 and the feed pipe 2 are coaxially arranged, occupying a small space.

[0041] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the discharge hole 44 is close to the inner ring side of the filter screen 43, and the screening mechanism 4 also includes: a plurality of plugging plates 46 movably plugged on the bottom plate 42 for sealing the discharge hole 44; a tension spring 47 provided on the bottom plate 42 for driving the plugging plate 46 to move toward the center of the filter cylinder, and the plugging plate 46 is staggered from the discharge hole 44 under the pulling of the tension spring 47.

[0042] Specifically, the discharge hole 44 and the blocking plate 46 are distributed along the radial direction of the bottom plate 42. During the loading process, the filter cartridge rotates, and the centrifugal force generated by the blocking plate 46 is greater than the tension of the tension spring 47. Initially, the blocking plate 46 is close to the center of the bottom plate 42 under the action of the tension spring 47, and is staggered from the discharge hole 44, and the discharge hole 44 is in an open state. During the loading process, the filter cartridge rotates, and the blocking plate 46 moves in a direction away from the center of the bottom plate 42 under the action of centrifugal force, and blocks the discharge hole 44, thereby realizing the function of automatically opening and closing the discharge hole 44, without manual operation, and is easy to use.

[0043] like Figures 2-9As shown, the bottom end of the collection bin 45 is conical. It further includes a recycling mechanism 6, and the recycling mechanism 6 includes: a collection bag 61 provided at the bottom end of the collection bin 45, and the collection bag 61 is concave-shaped; a sealing seat 62 fixedly connected to the bottom of the collection bin 45, and the sealing seat 62 covers the outside of the collection bag 61; a guiding tube 63 provided inside the barrel 1, the bottom end opening of the guiding tube 63 is located above the collection bag 61, and the top end opening of the guiding tube 63 is located outside the barrel 1; several impact rods 64 rotatably provided inside the sealing seat 62, and after the impact rods 64 rotate, an upward impact force is generated on the collection bag 61, so that the powder particles staying on the collection bag 61 move upward into the guiding tube 63 and are discharged through the guiding tube 63.

[0044] Specifically, the guiding tube 63 is fixedly connected to the barrel 1. An annular tube is fixedly connected to the inner bottom wall of the filter cylinder. The guiding tube 63 passes through the inside of the annular tube and is inserted into the collection bin 45. After the discharge hole 44 is opened, the large-sized powder particles in the filter cylinder fall into the collection bin 45 through the discharge hole 44, slide along the bottom wall of the collection bin 45 and fall into the collection bag 61, and finally accumulate at the center of the collection bag 61.

[0045] As Figures 2-9 shown, the upper half of the guiding tube 63 is inclined. The top end of the impact rod 64 abuts against the lower side of the collection bag 61, and the bottom end of the impact rod 64 is close to the center of the bottom end of the collection bag 61. The recycling mechanism 6 further includes a movable tube 65 slidably provided at the bottom end of the guiding tube 63. There is a gap between the bottom end of the movable tube 65 and the collection bag 61. Several impact rods 64 are evenly distributed annularly along the movable tube 65. After the movable tube 65 moves downward, it contacts the top end of the impact rod 64 and drives the impact rod 64 to rotate, so that the bottom end of the impact rod 64 moves upward and impacts the collection bag 61.

[0046] Specifically, the movable tube 65 is located above the collection bag 61. After the impact rod 64 rotates, the bottom end of the impact rod 64 moves upward and impacts the collection bag 61. By designing the center of the impact rod 64 or arranging a reset torsion spring at the rotation position of the impact rod 64, the impact rod 64 is inclined, as Figure 2 shown, the upper end of the impact rod 64 abuts against the collection bag 61, and the lower section of the impact rod 64 is within the inner circle range of the movable tube 65; there is a gap between the movable tube 65 and the upper surface of the collection bag 61 so that the powder particles can slide into the collection bag 61;

[0047] When dealing with large-sized powder particles, the movable tube 65 is quickly moved downward. After the movable tube 65 moves downward, it fits against the collection bag 61 and hits the upper end of the impact rod 64, causing the impact rod 64 to rotate rapidly. After the impact rod 64 rotates, its bottom end moves upward and pushes the collection bag 61, generating an upward impact force on the center of the bottom of the collection bag 61, causing the large-sized particles staying at the center of the collection bag 61 to be lifted upward. During this process, since the movable tube 65 fits against the upper surface of the collection bag 61 and the movable tube 65 surrounds the outside of the accumulated large-sized particles, it can prevent the large-sized particles from splashing everywhere, enabling the large-sized particles to enter the guide tube 63 along the movable tube 65 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 1 through the guide tube 63. In this way, the function of removing the large-sized particles from the cartridge 1 is completed, and the problem that a large number of large-sized particles accumulate in the collection bin 45 and affect the normal screening work is improved.

[0048] It should be noted that a collection box can also be provided at the top of the cartridge 1 and below the top opening of the guide tube 63 for collecting these discharged large-sized particles.

[0049] As Figures 2-8 shown, it further includes a driving mechanism 7. The driving mechanism 7 includes: a support 71 fixedly connected to the guide tube 63; an outer plate 72 slidably arranged on the support 71; an inner rod 73 movably inserted into the outer plate 72, with the bottom end of the inner rod 73 fixedly connected to the movable tube 65; an annular plate 731 fixedly connected to the inner rod 73; a main spring 732 arranged between the annular plate 731 and the outer plate 72; a baffle 74 slidably arranged on the support 71, with the baffle 74 blocking below the annular plate 731.

[0050] Specifically, a return spring for pushing the outer plate 72 to move upward can be provided on the support 71; the outer plate 72 can move up and down relative to the support 71, the inner rod 73 can move up and down relative to the outer plate 72, the baffle 74 can move horizontally, both ends of the return spring are respectively connected to the outer plate 72 and the support 71, and the main spring 732 is sleeved outside the inner rod 73.

[0051] As Figures 2-7 shown, the driving mechanism 7 further includes: a pushing spring 741 arranged on the support 71 for pushing the baffle 74 close to the inner rod 73; a pressing plate 75 fixedly connected to the outer plate 72, and after the pressing plate 75 moves downward, it is used to push the baffle 74 away from the inner rod 73.

[0052] Specifically, the two ends of the push spring 741 are respectively connected to the baffle 74 and the support 71. Initially, the baffle 74 is blocked under the ring plate 731 by the push of the push spring 741 to prevent the inner plate and the movable tube 65 from moving downward, thereby improving the position stability of the movable tube 65. A stable gap is left between the movable tube 65 and the collecting bag 61, thereby ensuring that large-sized particles can fall into the collecting bag 61 normally; after the outer plate 72 moves downward, the baffle 74 is pushed to move by the pressure plate 75, so that the baffle 74 is separated from the ring plate 731, and then the inner rod 73 can move downward.

[0053] like Figures 2-7 As shown, a limit plate 733 is provided at the top of the inner rod 73. After the outer plate 72 moves up, the inner rod 73 is driven to move up through the limit plate 733. The top of the ring side of the ring plate 731 is provided with a slope, and the bottom end of the pressure plate 75 is provided with a bevel.

[0054] Specifically, after the outer plate 72 and the inner rod 73 are both moved downward, when the outer plate 72 moves upward, the inner rod 73 is driven to move upward by the limit plate 733. After the inner rod 73 moves upward, the baffle plate 74 is pushed open by the slope on the ring plate 731. When the ring plate 731 moves up to above the baffle plate 74, the baffle plate 74 is blocked under the ring plate 731 again under the action of the push spring 741, thus completing the reset.

[0055] like Figures 2-7 As shown, the collecting bin 45 is made of heat-conducting material, and the driving mechanism 7 further includes a temperature-changing member 76 fixedly connected to the top of the support 71 for driving the outer plate 72 to move up and down.

[0056] Specifically, the temperature-changing element 76 is a material that automatically deforms and recovers due to temperature changes. The temperature-changing element 76 is preferably, but not limited to, a bimetallic strip.

[0057] When the feeding device is not working, the temperature inside the barrel 1 is room temperature, and the temperature-changing element 76 is in the initial state. At this time, the temperature-changing element 76 drives the outer plate 72 to be located at the bottom end of the moving range of the outer plate 72, and the inner rod 73 drives the movable tube 65 to move downward, and the movable tube 65 is close to the upper surface of the collecting bag 61.

[0058] When the material is being loaded, the heating unit 5 is started, the temperature in the barrel 1 rises, the temperature-changing element 76 is deformed by the heat, and the outer plate 72 is driven to move upward. After the outer plate 72 moves upward, the inner rod 73 and the movable tube 65 are driven to move upward, so that a gap is left between the movable tube 65 and the collecting bag 61, so that large-sized particles in the metal powder can slide into the collecting bag 61;

[0059] After the feeding work is completed or the 3D printer stops, the filter cartridge stops rotating, the discharge hole 44 opens, the heating unit 5 stops heating, the temperature inside the cartridge 1 decreases, the temperature-changing part 76 returns to its initial state, and drives the outer plate 72 to move downward. During the downward movement of the outer plate 72, both the reset spring and the main spring 732 are compressed. After the outer plate 72 moves downward, the pressing plate 75 contacts the baffle 74 and pushes the baffle 74 to move, causing the baffle 74 to separate from the ring plate 731. Losing the restraint of the baffle 74, the main spring 732 releases energy and pushes the inner rod 73 to move downward rapidly. The inner rod 73 drives the movable tube 65 to move downward rapidly. After the movable tube 65 moves downward, it hits the striker 64, causing the striker 64 to rotate. After the striker 64 rotates, it generates an upward impact force on the center of the collection bag 61, causing the large-sized particles staying on the collection bag 61 to move upward rapidly. Then, the large-sized particles move along the guide tube 63 to the outside of the cartridge 1. In this way, when the feeding work is carried out each time, the metal powder is automatically screened, and after the feeding is completed, the large-sized particles screened out are automatically discharged to the outside of the cartridge 1. This not only has a high degree of automation, but also uses the heat energy during the feeding work as power, improving the utilization rate of heat energy, eliminating the need for an additional electrical drive system, saving the usage cost, simplifying the structure, and being convenient to use.

[0060] It should be noted that the downward movement of the inner rod 73 occurs after the discharge hole 44 opens; for the metal powder to be fed, most of the powder particles are qualified, and only a small number of large-sized particles appear during feeding. Therefore, it is not necessary to clean the collection bin 45 frequently. Cleaning it automatically once after each feeding is completed or after stopping can already meet the cleaning requirements of the collection bin 45. Embodiment 2

[0061] As Figure 2 shown, compared with Embodiment 1, another implementation manner of the present invention is that: multiple groups of the driving mechanisms 7 are provided, and the multiple groups of the driving mechanisms 7 are evenly distributed annularly along the guide tube 63.

[0062] Specifically, multiple inner rods 73 are fixedly connected to the movable tube 65, and the movable tube 65 will only move downward after all the baffles 74 are separated from the ring plate 731; by providing multiple groups of driving mechanisms 7, the power generated by multiple temperature-changing parts 76 can be concentrated and released, improving the generated driving force and having a better use effect.

[0063] Working principle: This metal powder feeding device is installed on a 3D printer for use. The bottom end of the discharge pipe 3 is connected to the 3D printer and is used to convey metal powder to the 3D printer. During use, the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly 41 are started to rotate, and the heating unit 5 is started to heat the inside of the material cylinder 1. After the filter cylinder rotates, the plug plate 46 moves away from the center of the bottom plate 42 under the action of centrifugal force and blocks the discharge hole 44; after the discharge hole 44 is closed, the metal powder is poured into the feed pipe 2, and the powder enters the filter cylinder along the feed pipe 2. The filter cylinder drives the powder to rotate, and the powder moves outward under the action of centrifugal force. The powder with qualified size passes through the filter net 43 and drops downward, and flows into the 3D printer through the discharge hole 44. In this way, the function of feeding the 3D printer is realized;

[0064] During the feeding process, the heating effect of the heating unit 5 will dry the metal powder, improving the problems of powder moisture absorption and caking. Combined with the stirring and dispersing of the powder particles by the stirring assembly 41, as well as the collision and dispersion between the particles moving outward and the filter net 43, the caked powder can be dispersed, improving the uniformity and fluidity of the metal powder; by setting the filter net 43 to filter and screen the powder particles, the powder particles with larger sizes will be blocked in the filter cylinder, and these particles stay on the bottom plate 42 and close to the filter net 43;

[0065] During the feeding process, when the heating unit 5 is started, the temperature inside the material cylinder 1 rises, the temperature-changing part 76 is deformed by heat, driving the outer plate 72 to move upward. After the outer plate 72 moves upward, it drives the inner rod 73 and the movable pipe 65 to move upward, creating a gap between the movable pipe 65 and the collection bag 61;

[0066] After the feeding work is completed or the 3D printer stops, the filter cylinder stops rotating, the tension spring 47 pulls the plug plate 46 back to its reset position, opening the discharge hole 44. The large-sized particles fall downward through the discharge hole 44 into the collection bin 45 and slide along the bottom wall of the collection bin 45 into the collection bag 61, finally accumulating at the center of the collection bag 61; the heating unit 5 stops heating, and the temperature inside the material cylinder 1 gradually decreases. The temperature-changing part 76 returns to its initial state and drives the outer plate 72 to move downward;

[0067] During the downward movement of the outer plate 72, both the reset spring and the main spring 732 are compressed. After the outer plate 72 moves downward, the pressing plate 75 contacts the baffle 74 and pushes the baffle 74 to move, causing the baffle 74 to separate from the annular plate 731. Losing the restraint of the baffle 74, the main spring 732 releases energy and pushes the inner rod 73 to move downward rapidly. The inner rod 73 drives the movable tube 65 to move downward rapidly. After the movable tube 65 moves downward, it impacts the striker 64, causing the striker 64 to rotate. After the striker 64 rotates, it generates an upward impact force on the center of the collection bag 61, causing the large-sized particles staying on the collection bag 61 to move upward rapidly. Then, the large-sized particles move along the guide tube 63 to the outside of the barrel 1. In this way, on the premise of not affecting the feeding work of the powder particles of normal size, the automatic screening of metal powder is realized, and after the feeding is completed, the function of automatically discharging the screened large-sized particles to the outside of the barrel 1 is realized, so as to recycle these large-sized particles. It not only has a high degree of automation, but also uses the heat energy in the feeding work as power, improving the utilization rate of heat energy, without the need to additionally set up an electrical drive system, saving the use cost, simplifying the structure, and being convenient to use.

[0068] The above shows and describes the basic principles, main features and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited by the above embodiments. What is described in the above embodiments and the specification only illustrates the principles of the present invention. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, the present invention will have various changes and improvements, and these changes and improvements all fall within the scope of the present invention claimed. The scope of protection claimed by the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A feeding device for metal powder processing, comprising a material cylinder (1), wherein a feeding pipe (2) and a discharging pipe (3) are respectively arranged at the top and bottom of the material cylinder (1), and it is characterized in that: It further includes a screening mechanism (4) and a heating unit (5); The screening mechanism (4) includes: A filter cylinder and a stirring assembly (41) rotatably arranged inside the barrel (1). The filter cylinder is annular and includes a bottom plate (42) and a filter screen (43); A number of discharge holes (44) arranged on the bottom plate (42): A collection bin (45) arranged inside the barrel (1). The collection bin (45) is located below the bottom plate (42). After the discharge holes (44) are opened, the powder particles inside the filter cylinder fall into the collection bin (45) through the discharge holes (44); There is a gap between the outer side wall of the filter cylinder and the inner side wall of the barrel (1). The heating unit (5) is arranged inside the barrel (1), and the heating unit (5) is located outside the barrel (1); The stirring assembly (41) includes: An annular support plate (411) rotatably arranged inside the barrel (1); A number of stirring rods (412) fixedly connected to the bottom end of the annular support plate (411); The feed pipe (2), the filter cylinder and the stirring assembly (41) are coaxial. The annular support plate (411) is located between the feed pipe (2) and the filter screen (43); The metal powder is dried by the heating of the heating unit (5), combined with the stirring and dispersing of the powder particles by the stirring assembly (41), and the collision and dispersion between the particles moving outwards and the filter screen (43) to break up the agglomerated powder.

2. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge holes (44) are close to the inner ring side of the filter screen (43). The screening mechanism (4) further includes: A number of plug plates (46) movably inserted on the bottom plate (42) for closing the discharge holes (44); A tension spring (47) arranged on the bottom plate (42) for driving the plug plate (46) to move towards the center of the filter cylinder. The plug plate (46) is staggered from the discharge holes (44) under the pulling of the tension spring (47).

3. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bottom end of the collection bin (45) is conical. It further includes a recovery mechanism (6). The recovery mechanism (6) includes: A collection bag (61) arranged at the bottom end of the collection bin (45). The collection bag (61) is concave; A sealing seat (62) fixedly connected to the bottom of the collection bin (45). The sealing seat (62) covers the outside of the collection bag (61); A guide pipe (63) arranged inside the barrel (1). The bottom end opening of the guide pipe (63) is located above the collection bag (61), and the top end opening of the guide pipe (63) is located outside the barrel (1); A number of impact rods (64) rotatably arranged inside the sealing seat (62). After the impact rods (64) rotate, an upward impact force is generated on the collection bag (61), so that the powder particles staying on the collection bag (61) move up into the guide pipe (63) and are discharged through the guide pipe (63).

4. A metal powder processing feeding device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The upper half of the guiding tube (63) is inclined. The top end of the impact rod (64) abuts against the lower part of the collection bag (61). The bottom end of the impact rod (64) is close to the center of the bottom end of the collection bag (61). The recycling mechanism (6) further includes a movable tube (65) slidably arranged at the bottom end of the guiding tube (63). There is a gap between the bottom end of the movable tube (65) and the collection bag (61). A plurality of the impact rods (64) are evenly distributed around the movable tube (65) in a circular pattern. After the movable tube (65) moves downward, it contacts the top end of the impact rod (64) and drives the impact rod (64) to rotate, so that the bottom end of the impact rod (64) moves upward and impacts the collection bag (61).

5. A metal powder processing feeding device according to claim 4, characterized in that: It further includes a driving mechanism (7), and the driving mechanism (7) includes: A support (71) fixedly connected to the guiding tube (63); An outer plate (72) slidably arranged on the support (71); An inner rod (73) movably inserted into the outer plate (72), and the bottom end of the inner rod (73) is fixedly connected to the movable tube (65); A ring plate (731) fixedly connected to the inner rod (73); A main spring (732) arranged between the ring plate (731) and the outer plate (72); A baffle (74) slidably arranged on the support (71), and the baffle (74) blocks below the ring plate (731).

6. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 5, characterized in that: The driving mechanism (7) further includes: A pushing spring (741) arranged on the support (71) for pushing the baffle (74) close to the inner rod (73); A pressing plate (75) fixedly connected to the outer plate (72), and after the pressing plate (75) moves downward, it is used to push the baffle (74) away from the inner rod (73).

7. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 6, characterized in that: A limiting plate (733) is arranged at the top of the inner rod (73). After the outer plate (72) moves upward, it drives the inner rod (73) to move upward through the limiting plate (733). A slope is arranged at the top of the circumferential side of the ring plate (731), and a bevel edge is arranged at the bottom end of the pressing plate (75).

8. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 7, characterized in that: The collection bin (45) is made of heat-conducting material. The driving mechanism (7) further includes a temperature-variable member (76) fixedly connected to the top end of the support (71) for driving the outer plate (72) to move up and down.

9. The feeding device for metal powder processing according to claim 8, characterized in that: There are multiple groups of the driving mechanisms (7), and multiple groups of the driving mechanisms (7) are evenly distributed around the guiding tube (63) in a circular pattern.

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