Printing bed assembly for additive manufacturing system

Abstract

A print bed assembly (200) for an additive manufacturing system (100) includes: a gantry (202); a carrier plate (204) extending in a first direction (A1); a building plate (220) removably arranged on the carrier plate; and at least one rear clip (222) removably coupling the building plate (220) with the carrier plate. The print bed assembly includes: a slider (228); and at least one front clip (240) arranged to removably couple the build plate with the carrier plate. In an embodiment, a print bed assembly includes: at least one handle (246); and at least one urging element (250) arranged to move the building plate relative to the carrier plate in a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing bed assembly for an additive manufacturing system and also relates to an additive manufacturing system comprising the printing bed assembly. Background Art

[0002] Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is an additive manufacturing process that typically uses a continuous filament of a thermoplastic material. The filament can be fed from a filament supply unit to a moving, heated print head and can be deposited onto the upper surface of a build plate through a print nozzle. Further, the print head can be moved relative to the build plate under control to produce a work product, which can include multiple deposited layers. In some cases, it may also be necessary to move the work product vertically by a small amount to start a new layer. In this way, a three-dimensional object can be produced from a thermoplastic material.

[0003] Further, the build plate forms part of the print bed assembly. The print bed assembly may also include a mounting base (e.g., a gantry) and a carrier plate. The print bed assembly may be vertically movable to allow the work product to move relative to the print head. The build plate may be a glass plate removably coupled to the carrier plate by one or more coupling means. The coupling means may include, for example, one or more metal front clips and one or more metal rear clips that may hold the build plate within the print bed assembly. Some conventional coupling means may also include magnetic coupling and vacuum-based coupling, which are typically complex, expensive, and / or unreliable compared to clip-based coupling.

[0004] Conventional front and rear clips typically have a small size and shape. Due to their design, the front and rear clips may not allow for easy and convenient removal and installation of the build plate, thereby affecting the usability of the additive manufacturing system. Further, the front and rear clips may be prone to failure, such as due to deformation, which is due to the pulling force applied by the user during the removal of the build plate. The failure of the front and / or rear clips may increase the downtime associated with the additive manufacturing system and may also necessitate additional repair costs. In addition, the current design of the print bed assembly may make it impossible for the user to conveniently and securely hold the build plate during the removal and / or installation of the build plate. Therefore, such a conventional print bed assembly may lack user-friendliness and reliability, and may also reduce the efficiency of the additive manufacturing system.

[0005] Patent publication US10,703,044B2 describes a 3D printer comprising a building platform and a building plate, the structure of the building plate being configured to be removably clamped to the building platform. The building platform comprises a base, a heating layer, at least one compressible biasing element arranged between the base and the heating layer, and a clamp, wherein the building platform is configured to receive the building plate in a clamping position, and the clamp is configured to releasably clamp the building plate to the building platform in the clamping position. Summary of the invention

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved print bed assembly for an additive manufacturing system. The print bed assembly may include a plurality of components that may support a work product being formed by the additive manufacturing system.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a print bed assembly for an additive manufacturing system is provided, the print bed assembly comprising a stage and a carrier plate coupled to the stage and spaced apart from the stage. The carrier plate extends from a rear side of the carrier plate to a front side of the carrier plate in a first direction, and extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The assembly further comprises: a build plate removably arranged on the carrier plate; and at least one rear clamp arranged to detachably couple the build plate to the carrier plate at the rear side of the carrier plate, wherein the at least one rear clamp is arranged to clamp the build plate to the carrier plate using a first clamping force.

[0008] The assembly further includes a sliding body slidably disposed between the stage and the carrier plate. At least one front clamp is arranged to detachably couple the build plate with the carrier plate at a front side of the carrier plate, the at least one front clamp being coupled to the sliding body, wherein the at least one front clamp is arranged to clamp the build plate to the carrier plate using a second clamping force. The assembly includes at least one handle coupled to the sliding body at the front side of the carrier plate.

[0009] The assembly further comprises at least one pushing element coupled at a rear side of the sliding body and arranged to move the build plate relative to the carrier plate in a first direction only after the sliding body has moved a predefined distance. When a pulling force is applied to the at least one handle in the first direction, the sliding body moves relative to the carrier plate, wherein first the at least one front clip is detached from the build plate and the carrier plate, and then after the sliding body moves beyond the predefined distance, the at least one pushing element pushes the build plate in the first direction, thereby releasing the build plate from the at least one rear clip.

[0010] By providing at least one handle at the front, the user can simply pull the handle, after which both the front and rear sides of the build plate become detachable from the carrier plate and can be easily removed from the assembly and thus removed from the additive manufacturing system for further processing of the manufactured object or for cleaning the build plate. The print bed assembly described herein can be user-friendly and reliable in operation. The print bed assembly can allow easy installation of the build plate and removal of the build plate from the front and rear clamps. The print bed assembly described herein can also improve the efficiency of the additive manufacturing system. Further, the design of the front and rear clamps can allow the build plate to be easily disengaged and engaged with the front and rear clamps. In an example, at least one handle can have an ergonomic design for improving the user's grip.

[0011] In an embodiment, the second clamping force applied by the at least one front clamp is smaller than the first clamping force applied by the at least one rear clamp. In this way, it is ensured that the friction force generated by the at least one front clamp on the build plate is lower than the friction force of the at least one rear clamp, and as a result, the front clamp will release before the rear clamp. This will allow the build plate to be properly disengaged from the carrier plate. It should be noted that if the front clamp generates too high a clamping force, the build plate may already be pulled in the first direction due to the friction of the front clamp on the top surface of the build plate. Then, after further pulling the handle, the rear clamp will become disengaged due to the at least one pushing element pushing the build plate out of the rear clamp, but there is a risk that the build plate is still at least partially held by the front clamp. This will result in a suboptimal removal of the build plate from the carrier plate.

[0012] In an embodiment, the carrier plate of the print bed assembly includes at least one cutout disposed at the rear side and aligned with the at least one push element. Further, after the sliding body moves at least a predefined distance, the at least one push element is at least partially received in the at least one cutout. Since the at least one push element can be received in the at least one cutout and the at least one push element is allowed to travel some distance in the first direction, the build plate can be moved a sufficient distance in the first direction, thereby allowing easy removal of the build plate.

[0013] In an embodiment, at least one cutout has a cutout length, and at least one urging element is arranged to move the build plate in the first direction by a maximum distance, such that the maximum distance is equal to the cutout length of the at least one cutout. The cutout length and the maximum distance may allow a user to conveniently hold the build plate during removal and installation of the build plate.

[0014] In an embodiment, the at least one cut has a cut length in the range from 10 mm to 15 mm. The cut length may be obtained such that the build plate is sufficiently moved along the first direction for easy removal and installation of the build plate.

[0015] In an embodiment, the print bed assembly further includes a pair of side guides arranged to be coupled to each of the carrier plate and the build plate. Each of the pair of side guides has a guide length greater than or equal to the maximum distance. The pair of side guides can constrain movement of the build plate along the second direction and can also center the build plate. Further, during removal and / or installation of the build plate, the build plate can be guided from both sides by the pair of side guides so that the build plate can be self-centered.

[0016] In an embodiment, each of the pair of side guides extends from at least one rear clip. In some cases, the pair of side guides and the at least one rear clip can together hold the build plate in an engaged state proximal to the rear side of the carrier plate. In an example, the print bed assembly can omit the side guides.

[0017] In an embodiment, upon application of a pulling force, at least one pushing element moves from a first position to a second position along a first direction. In the first position, the at least one pushing element is spaced apart from the rear side of the carrier plate by at least a predefined distance. In the second position, the at least one pushing element abuts the build plate. The abutment of the at least one pushing element with the build plate and the continued movement of the build plate along the first direction can allow the build plate to be disengaged from the at least one rear clip.

[0018] In an embodiment, at least one push element is integral with the sliding body. In such an example, the sliding body and the at least one push element may be manufactured as a one-piece unit.

[0019] In an embodiment, the print bed assembly further comprises at least one flexible member coupling the at least one urging element to the sliding body. The at least one flexible member may be a separate component coupled to the sliding body by any suitable coupling method. In an embodiment, the at least one urging element and the at least one flexible member may be integral with the sliding body.

[0020] In an embodiment, the print bed assembly includes at least one additional pushing element coupled to at least one handle via a sliding body. The at least one additional pushing element is spaced apart from the at least one pushing element along the second direction. The at least one additional pushing element is arranged to engage the at least one rear clip after the sliding body moves a distance greater than a predefined distance along the first direction so as to open the at least one rear clip. When the at least one additional pushing element engages with the at least one rear clip, the at least one additional pushing element may cause the at least one rear clip to open. Further, the at least one additional pushing element may hold the at least one rear clip in an open position until the at least one additional pushing element contacts the at least one rear clip. In addition, during installation of the build plate, the build plate may move toward the at least one rear clip until the build plate engages with the at least one rear clip and the build plate snaps back into an engaged state.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, a printing bed assembly for an additive manufacturing system is provided, the printing bed assembly comprising a stage and a carrier plate coupled to the stage and spaced apart from the stage. The carrier plate extends from the rear side of the carrier plate to the front side of the carrier plate in a first direction, and extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The assembly also includes: a build plate, which is removably arranged on the carrier plate; and at least one rear clamp, which is arranged to detachably couple the build plate with the carrier plate at the rear side of the carrier plate, wherein the at least one rear clamp is arranged to clamp the build plate to the carrier plate using a first clamping force. The printing bed assembly also includes a sliding body, which is slidably arranged between the stage and the carrier plate. At least one front clamp is arranged to detachably couple the build plate with the carrier plate at the front side of the carrier plate, and at least one front clamp is coupled to the sliding body, wherein the at least one front clamp is arranged to clamp the build plate to the carrier plate using a second clamping force. The assembly includes at least one handle, which is coupled to the sliding body at the front side of the carrier plate. The print bed assembly further comprises at least one build plate clamp, each build plate clamp being coupled to the sliding body at a front side of the carrier plate and being arranged to clamp the build plate at the front side. The assembly further comprises at least one blocking element arranged at the front side of the carrier plate, the blocking element comprising an abutment for limiting movement of the build plate relative to the carrier plate in a first direction, wherein the clamping force applied by the at least one build plate clamp is greater than the clamping force applied by the at least one rear clamp. Upon application of a pulling force on the at least one handle, the sliding body moves relative to the carrier plate, wherein first the at least one front clamp and the at least one rear clamp are detached from the build plate and the carrier plate, and then, after the build plate has moved to the abutment, if the at least one handle is further pulled in the first direction, the build plate clamp will release the build plate. Preferably, the clamping force of the build plate clamp is such that it generates a friction force between the build plate clamp and the build plate, which overcomes all friction forces generated by the rear clamp and the front clamp. This will result in controlled movement of the build plate in the first direction when the user pulls the handle.

[0022] In an embodiment, each of the at least one handle is connected to a front clamp and a build plate clamp. The one front clamp and the one build plate clamp may share a common clamping element. The common clamping element may cooperate with two separate opposing clamping elements.

[0023] In an embodiment, the carrier plate includes a cutout at the front side for receiving at least a portion of one of the build plate clips.

[0024] In an embodiment, the abutment is spaced apart from the front side of the build plate by more than a predefined distance in an engaged state of the assembly, in which engaged state the build plate is still clamped by the at least one rear clamp.

[0025] The print bed assembly described above may further include at least one guide member at least partially disposed between the stage and the carrier plate. During movement of the slide relative to the carrier plate, the slide may be guided by the at least one guide member. The at least one guide member may guide movement of the slide in the first direction and may also ensure alignment of the slide relative to the carrier plate and the stage.

[0026] In an embodiment, the sliding body includes at least one slot therethrough. The at least one guide member is at least partially and slidably received in the at least one slot of the sliding body. The at least one slot may define a movement path of the at least one guide member and may also limit any movement of the at least one guide member beyond a desired distance.

[0027] In an embodiment, at least one rear clip comprises a leaf spring. The design of the rear clip as described herein can reduce the likelihood of rear clip failure (e.g., due to plastic deformation). Further, the design of at least one rear clip can allow the build plate to be easily engaged and disengaged therefrom.

[0028] In an embodiment, the carrier plate is spaced apart from the slide body by a vertical offset in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The vertical offset between the carrier plate and the slide body is in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm. The vertical offset can reduce any interference between the slide body and the carrier plate, the heating element, or the stage. Thus, the slide body can be freely moved in the first direction for removing the build plate, and in a direction opposite to the first direction for installing the build plate.

[0029] In an embodiment, the print bed assembly further includes a heating element disposed below or in the carrier plate. The heating element can heat one or more components of the print bed assembly (e.g., the carrier plate and the build plate) to maintain the temperature of the one or more components of the print bed assembly at a desired temperature level.

[0030] According to a third aspect, an additive manufacturing system is provided, comprising a print bed assembly as described above. Due to the specially designed print bed assembly, the additive manufacturing system can exhibit improved usability, reliability and efficiency. The additive manufacturing system can be a FFF system. However, the present invention is not limited to FFF systems. For example, the additive manufacturing system can be a pellet extruder printing system, a 3D inkjet printing system, a selective laser sintering (SLS) system, etc. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0032] Figure 1Schematically illustrates a schematic diagram of an additive manufacturing system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 Schematically shows a method for Figure 1 A perspective view of a print bed assembly of an additive manufacturing system, wherein a push element of the print bed assembly is in a first position;

[0034] Figure 3 A highly schematic view of the main components of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment is shown;

[0035] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a build plate is not shown;

[0036] Figure 5 schematically illustrates an exploded view of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment, wherein at least one urging element is in a second position;

[0038] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment, wherein at least one urging element is in a third position;

[0039] Figure 8 Schematically showing a perspective view of a sliding body of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein at least one pushing element is coupled to the sliding body via a flexible member;

[0040] Fig. 9 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, the portion of the print bed assembly comprising at least one pushing element and at least one further pushing element;

[0041] Fig.10 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a print bed assembly according to an embodiment, wherein an additional urging element engages a rear clip of the print bed assembly;

[0042] Fig.11 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly according to another embodiment, the print bed assembly being in an engaged state;

[0043] Fig.12 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly in a blocked state;

[0044] Fig.13 a perspective view schematically showing a print bed assembly in a disengaged state; and

[0045] Figures 14 to 17 A perspective view of a portion of the assembly is shown in different states, showing only one corner of the build plate and one of the handles.

[0046] It should be noted that items with the same reference numerals in different drawings have the same structural features and the same functions, or are the same signals. If the function and / or structure of such items has been explained, it is not necessary to repeat the explanation thereof in the detailed description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 A front view of an additive manufacturing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. The additive manufacturing system 100 includes a housing 102 and a print head 104 arranged in the housing 102. The housing 102 may be generally box-shaped and define a hollow space 108 (also referred to as a build chamber 108). A display 110 is arranged at the front side of the housing 102 for displaying information about the print job and for receiving user instructions. The additive manufacturing system 100 is arranged to build each part / component in a layer-by-layer manner using information from a software model (e.g., a computer-aided design (CAD) model). The print head 104 may include at least one extruder (not shown) that can receive consumable materials (e.g., filament 106). The filament 106 may include a thermoplastic material. The consumable material may be melted by the at least one extruder, and the melted consumable material may be utilized to produce each part / component. The print head 104 may be movable along the X-axis and / or the Y-axis.

[0048] The additive manufacturing system 100 also includes a print bed assembly 200. The additive manufacturing system 100 can deposit consumable materials from the print head 104 onto the print bed assembly 200 in a layer-by-layer manner to form a three-dimensional (3D) printed object. The print bed assembly 200 is received in the hollow space 108 of the housing 102. Further, the print bed assembly 200 can be spaced apart from the print head 104 in the vertical direction. The print bed assembly 200 can be movable along the Z axis. In some other examples, the print bed assembly 200 can be stationary, and the print head 104 can be movable along the Z axis in addition to being movable along the X axis and / or the Y axis. It should be noted that the additive manufacturing system 100 can include any arrangement of components that can be synchronously operated to manufacture a 3D printed object without any limitation.

[0049] Figure 2A perspective view of a print bed assembly 200 according to an embodiment is schematically shown. The print bed assembly 200 includes a gantry 202. The gantry 202 can be embodied as a base of the print bed assembly 200. It should be noted that the gantry 202 can include any arrangement of elements that can allow one or more components of the print bed assembly 200 to be mounted. The gantry 202 can be movable so as to achieve movement of the print bed assembly 200. Specifically, the gantry 202 can be coupled to one or more drive devices to vertically move the gantry 202. The gantry 202 can also be guided by one or more rods extending through holes at the rear of the gantry 202. In this embodiment, the gantry 202 herein includes a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, the gantry 202 can be implemented in any shape (e.g., a square shape) without any limitation. Further, the gantry 202 can be made of any suitable material (e.g., metal). In an example, the gantry 202 can include a gantry 202 that can be connected to the housing 102 (see Figure 1 ) one or more fastening elements (not shown) movably connected.

[0050] The print bed assembly 200 further includes a carrier plate 204 coupled to and spaced apart from the stage 202. The carrier plate 204 is coupled to the stage 202 via a plurality of mechanical fasteners 206 (only three of which are shown herein). The mechanical fasteners 206 may include screws, bolts, pins, etc. Further, the carrier plate 204 extends along a first direction A1 from a rear side 212 of the carrier plate 204 to a front side 214 of the carrier plate 204, and extends along a second direction A2 that is perpendicular to the first direction A1. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the carrier plate 204 is generally rectangular. Alternatively, the carrier plate 204 may have any other shape, such as a square shape. The carrier plate 204 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to metal, ceramic, and polymer. The carrier plate 204 has a width W1 along the second direction A2.

[0051] Print bed assembly 200 further includes a build plate 220. Consumable materials can be deposited on build plate 220 to form a 3D printed object. Build plate 220 is removably disposed on carrier plate 204. Build plate 220 and carrier plate 204 are defined as follows: Figure 2 The combined height H1 is indicated in FIG.

[0052] Build plate 220 may be in an engaged state (eg Figure 2 ) and the disengaged state (as shown in Figure 7 204). In the engaged state, build plate 220 is clamped to carrier plate 204. In the disengaged state of build plate 220, the build plate can be picked up from carrier plate 204 to remove build plate 220 from print bed assembly 200.

[0053] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 2 , build plate 220 is made of transparent glass. As a result, fasteners 206 are visible through build plate 220. Alternatively, build plate 220 may be made of any other suitable material (eg, non-transparent glass or metal).

[0054] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, build plate 220 is a rectangular plate with rounded corners. Alternatively, build plate 220 may include any other shape suitable for building an object thereon. Preferably, the size of build plate 220 is similar to the size of carrier plate 204, wherein, in the engaged state, at least the rear edge and the front edge of build plate 220 are aligned with the corresponding edges of carrier plate 204. In this way, build plate 220 is fully supported, and clips may be attached at the front and rear sides of build plate 220, which also contact carrier plate 204.

[0055] Print bed assembly 200 further includes a rear clamp 222 arranged to detachably couple build plate 220 to carrier plate 204 at rear side 212 of carrier plate 204. In this example, rear clamp 222 extends along second direction A2. Rear clamp 222 is arranged to clamp build plate 220 to build plate 220 using first clamping force F1. Rear clamp 222 described herein can reduce the possibility of failure of rear clamp 222 (e.g., due to plastic deformation), and can also allow build plate 220 to be easily engaged and disengaged therefrom. Assembly 200 can include more than one rear clamp, such as two or three, or even more.

[0056] Print bed assembly 200 further includes a slide body 228 that is slidably disposed between stage 202 and carrier plate 204. In this example, print bed assembly 200 further includes two front clamps 240 that are arranged to detachably couple build plate 220 to carrier plate 204 at front side 214 of carrier plate 204. Front clamps 240 are coupled to slide body 228. Each of front clamps 240 is arranged to apply a second clamping force F2 on build plate 220, such as Figure 2 . The print bed assembly 200 further includes two handles 246, which are coupled to the slide body 228 and are arranged at the front side 214 of the carrier plate 204. The print bed assembly 200 further includes two pushing elements 250 coupled to the handles 246 via the slide body 22. The pushing elements 250 are arranged to push the build plate 220 on the carrier plate 204 only after the slide body 228 moves a predefined distance D4 along the first direction A1. The distance D4 is when the build plate 220 is in the engaged state and the slide body 228 is in the Figure 2The initial position shown in FIG. 1 is a distance defined between the rear edge of build plate 220 and at least one pushing element 250 along first direction A1.

[0057] The user can apply a pulling force F3 to the handle 246 along the first direction A1 to move the sliding body 228 along the first direction A1. By moving the sliding body 228, the connected pushing element 250 is in the first position (eg, Figure 2 ), the second position (as shown in Figure 6 ) and the third position (as shown in Figure 7 240 and rearwardly positioned at the rear side 212 of the carrier plate 204. When a pulling force F3 is applied to the handle 246, the pushing element 250 will move from the first position to the second position along the first direction A1. When the build plate 220 is in the engaged state (i.e., still clamped by the front clamp 240 and the rear clamp 222), the pushing element 250 is in the first position (i.e., the rearmost position). In the first position, the pushing element 250 is spaced apart from the rear side 212 of the carrier plate 204 by at least a predefined distance D4.

[0058] In an embodiment, the sum of the clamping forces F2 applied by the two front clamps 240 (i.e., 2×F2) is less than the first clamping force F1 applied by the single rear clamp 222. As a result, once the user pulls handle 246, front clamp 240 will necessarily be released first. Only after handle 246 is pulled far enough will pushing element 250 move build plate 220 out of rear clamp 222, so that the entire build plate 220 is released from all clamps 240, 222 in the proper order (see also the following description of the clamping force F1). Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 description).

[0059] Figure 2The print bed assembly 200 further includes a pair of side guides 226 arranged to be coupled to each of the carrier plate 204 and the build plate 220. In the engaged state, the build plate 220 is laterally constrained by the pair of side guides 226. Specifically, the pair of side guides 226 can limit any movement of the build plate 220 along the second direction A2. The pair of side guides 226 can also center the build plate 220. Further, during the removal and / or installation of the build plate 220, the build plate 220 can be guided by the pair of side guides 226 so that the build plate 220 can be self-centered. The pair of side guides 226 are spaced apart from each other along the second direction A2. In this example, each of the pair of side guides 226 extends from the rear clamp 222. The pair of side guides 226 extend along the first direction A1. In some examples, the pair of side guides 226 can be fixedly coupled to the rear clamp 222. Side guides 226 may be embodied as rectangular plates. In an example, the height H2 of side guides 226 may be at least equal to the combined height H1 of carrier plate 204 and build plate 220 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) so that side guides 226 can engage with carrier plate 204 and build plate 220.

[0060] Figure 3 2 shows a schematic front view of the elements of the print bed assembly 200 according to an embodiment. It should be noted that for illustrative purposes, Figure 3 The distances between the components of the print bed assembly 200 are shown in an exaggerated manner. Figure 3 The relative sizes of the elements shown in the drawings will be different in practice and will not be equal as they appear from the drawings.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown in , the print bed assembly 200 can further include a heating element 218 disposed under or in the carrier plate 204. For illustrative purposes, the heating element 218 is shown in a manner spaced apart from the carrier plate 204. The heating element 218 can maintain the temperature of one or more components of the print bed assembly 200 (e.g., the carrier plate 204 or the build plate 220) at a desired temperature level. The heating element 218 is disposed between the carrier plate 204 and the stage 202. The heating element 218 is disposed at a distance D2 from the stage 202. The distance D2 can be in a range from 1 mm to 3 mm. In an example, the distance D2 can be approximately equal to 2 mm. In some examples, the heating element 218 can include a silicone heater pad, a heating coil, a resistance wire, a resistance film, a resistance sheet, and the like. The heating element 218 can be arranged to heat the entire area of ​​the carrier plate 204. Therefore, the size of the heating element 218 can be substantially similar to the size of the carrier plate 204.

[0062] Further, the carrier plate 204 includes a first surface 208 and a second surface 210 opposite to the first surface 208. When the build plate 220 is arranged on the carrier plate 204, the build plate 220 will contact the first surface 208 of the carrier plate 204. In addition, the second surface 210 faces the heating element 218, the sliding body 228 and the stage 202. The first surface 208 and the second surface 210 may have a substantially planar profile. Further, the carrier plate 204 is spaced apart from the sliding body 228 by a vertical offset D3 along a third direction A3 perpendicular to the first direction A1 and the second direction A2. The vertical offset D3 between the carrier plate 204 and the sliding body 228 may be in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm. It should be noted that the vertical offset D3 may be obtained so that the sliding body 228 may be movable along the first direction A1 and along the direction A4 without interfering with any other components of the print bed assembly 200. Furthermore, the vertical offset D3 between the carrier plate 204 and the slide body 228 may prevent the heating element 218 from interfering with the slide body 228 .

[0063] Figure 4 A perspective view of a print bed assembly 200 is schematically shown. Figure 4 Build plate 220 is not shown in FIG. Figure 2 ) to illustrate various features of the carrier plate 204. Figure 4 As shown in , the carrier plate 204 includes two cutouts 216 disposed at the rear side 212 and aligned with each of the push elements 250. It should be noted that the carrier plate 204 may include more than two cutouts or a single cutout similar to the cutout 216 without any limitation. Further, the shape of the cutout 216 is generally rectangular. Alternatively, the cutout 216 may be implemented in any shape (e.g., a square shape) without any limitation. The cutout 216 has a cutout length L1. In an embodiment, the cutout length L1 of the cutout 216 may vary from 10 mm to 15 mm. It should be noted that the distance D1 is a distance defined between the position of the push element 250 when it abuts the build plate 220 and the position of the push element 250 when it abuts the carrier plate 204 along the first direction A1. In some embodiments, the cutout length L1 may be equal to the distance D1. In some examples, the carrier plate 204 may omit the cutout 216.

[0064] exist Figure 2 and Figure 4In the embodiment shown in , each of the pair of side guides 226 has a guide length L3 that is slightly greater than distance D1. In this way, even when build plate 220 moves distance D1, build plate 220 can still engage with side guides 226. It should be noted that the guide length L3 of each side guide 226 as shown herein is exemplary in nature. Therefore, the guide length L3 of side guides 226 can be greater than the guide length shown herein without any limitation. In some examples, print bed assembly 200 can omit side guides 226.

[0065] Figure 5 An exploded view of the print bed assembly 200 is shown. Figure 5 As shown in , the print bed assembly 200 includes a single rear clip 222 extending along the second direction A2. In other examples, the print bed assembly 200 may include two or more rear clips that may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction A2 without any limitation. The rear clip 222 has a length L2, which may be substantially equal to the width W1 of the carrier plate 204. The rear clip 222 may include a leaf spring. For example, the rear clip 222 may include a bistable leaf spring. The rear clip 222 includes an upper portion 224, a middle portion 225, and a lower portion (not shown). The lower portion is spaced apart from the upper portion 224 in the vertical direction along the third direction A3, so that a portion of the build plate 220 and the carrier plate 204 can be received therebetween. The upper portion 224 may be embodied as a continuous element. The upper portion 224 may include a leaf spring. Further, when the build plate 220 is in an engaged state (such as Figure 2 ), upper portion 224 engages with build plate 220 to hold build plate 220 in an engaged state.

[0066] In addition, the middle portion 225 may embody discontinuous elements defining gaps 227 therebetween. The gaps 227 are provided to allow passage of the push element 250 during movement of the sliding body 228. Further, the lower portion may also embody discontinuous elements defining gaps (not shown) therebetween. The gaps in the lower portion are provided to allow passage of the push element 250 during movement of the sliding body 228.

[0067] In an example, middle portion 225 and lower portion may include a leaf spring. In other examples, middle portion 225 and lower portion may include a rectangular plate. Further, the lower portion of rear clip 222 is engaged with carrier plate 204. In some examples, the lower portion of rear clip 222 may be coupled to carrier plate 204 using a mechanical fastener (not shown). In some examples, upper portion 224, middle portion 225, and lower portion of rear clip 225 may together have a substantially U-shaped cross-section for engaging build plate 220 with carrier plate 204. It should be noted that rear clip 222 may include any other design or shape that may allow build plate 220 to be easily engaged and disengaged therefrom without limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0068] Further, the sliding body 228 includes a first end 232 and a second end 234. The sliding body 228 includes a flat sheet having a plurality of openings 230 therein. The openings 230 can reduce the weight of the sliding body 228 and / or can provide space for protruding elements. In addition, the openings 230 can limit the sliding body 228 from being moved by the heating element 218 (see Figure 3 ) The temperature rise caused by the heat radiated by the sliding body 228. The sliding body 228 can be made of any material, including but not limited to metals, ceramics, and polymers. In some examples, the sliding body 228 can be made of sheet metal.

[0069] The print bed assembly 200 further includes a guide member 236 at least partially arranged between the stage 202 and the carrier plate 204. The sliding body 228 can be guided by the guide member 236 during the movement of the sliding body 228 relative to the carrier plate 204. Specifically, the guide member 236 can guide the sliding body 228 along the first direction A1. In addition, the guide member 236 can also ensure the alignment of the sliding body 228 relative to the carrier plate 204 and the stage 202. Further, in some examples, the guide member 236 can also connect the carrier plate 204 to the stage 202. In this example, the assembly 200 includes four guide members 236, which are arranged in all four corners of the sliding body 228 to guide the sliding body 228 in a controlled direction, thereby avoiding any undesirable rotation. Further, the guide member 236 is embodied as a mechanical fastener herein. The guide member 236 may include a bolt, a screw, a pin, etc. Alternatively, the guide member 236 may include any other shape or design without any limitation.

[0070] Each of the guide members 236 is at least partially and slidably received within a corresponding slot 238 of the slide body 228. The slot 238 can define a path of movement for at least one guide member 236 and can also limit any movement of at least one guide member 236 beyond a desired distance. Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding body 228 includes four slots 238, each of which receives a corresponding guide member 236. In some examples, the length L4 of each slot 238 can be at least equal to or greater than the cutout length L1 of the cutout 216 provided in the carrier plate 204. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited by the total number of guide members 236 or the total number of slots 238. It should be further noted that the mechanical fastener 206 connecting the carrier plate 204 to the stage 202 can be arranged so that the sliding body 228 does not interfere with the mechanical fastener 206 during movement of the sliding body 228 in the first direction A1 or the direction A4.

[0071] Furthermore, if Figure 5 As shown in , assembly 200 includes two front clips 240 spaced apart from each other along second direction A2. Each front clip 240 includes an upper portion 242 and a lower portion 244, which is spaced apart from upper portion 242 in the vertical direction for receiving a portion of build plate 220 and carrier plate 204 therebetween. In an example, upper portion 242 and lower portion 244 of each front clip 240 may be embodied as a leaf spring. Alternatively, upper portion 242 and lower portion 244 may include any other design or shape without any limitation. When build plate 220 is in an engaged state, upper portion 242 of each front clip 240 may be engaged with build plate 220, and lower portion 244 of each front clip 240 may be engaged with carrier plate 204. Furthermore, in the disengaged state of build plate 220 , upper portion 242 of each front clip 240 may be disengaged from build plate 220 , and lower portion 244 of each front clip 240 may be disengaged from carrier plate 204 .

[0072] In some examples, the length of lower portion 244 defined along first direction A1 can be longer than the length of upper portion 242 defined along first direction A1. In such examples, when mounting build plate 220, lower portion 244 can first engage with carrier plate 204, followed by upper portion 242 engaging with build plate 220. In some examples, upper portion 242 and lower portion 244 can have the same elastic properties. However, upper portion 242 and lower portion 244 can have different elastic properties. It should be noted that front clip 240 can include any other design or shape that can allow build plate 220 to be easily engaged and disengaged therefrom.

[0073] Further, the assembly 200 includes two handles 246 spaced apart from each other along the second direction A2. The handles 246 may be similar in design. In other examples, the print bed assembly 200 may include a single handle coupled to the sliding body 228. Each handle 246 is coupled to the sliding body 228 using a pair of mechanical fasteners 248 (only one of which is shown herein). The mechanical fasteners 248 may include screws, pins, bolts, etc. Alternatively, each handle 246 may be welded to the sliding body 228. In some other examples, each handle 246 may form an integral part of the sliding body 228.

[0074] The handle 246 may be made of a polymer, ceramic, or the like. It should be noted that in some examples, the connection of the handle 246 to the sliding body 228 and the front clip 240 may be equipped with a heat break. Further, the handle 246 may be made of a polymer that may exhibit a lower heat deflection temperature. The handle 246 may have a square cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, a circular cross-section, or the like. The handle 246 may have an ergonomic design so that the handle 246 may be easy for a user to grasp. In addition, since the handle 246 may conduct heat from the sliding body 228 (which in turn may be heated by the heating element 218), the handle 246 may include an insulating covering so that a user may easily grip the handle 246 for removing the build plate 220.

[0075] Furthermore, if Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 2 , the pushing element 250 extends from the sliding body 228 along the third direction A3. Specifically, the pushing element 250 extends vertically from the sliding body 228. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the pushing element 250 is integral with the sliding body 228. In such an example, the sliding body 228 and the pushing element 250 may form a one-piece unit. Further, the pushing element 250 includes two pushing elements 250 spaced apart from each other along the second direction A2. In other examples, the print bed assembly 200 may include more than two pushing elements or a single pushing element similar to the pushing element 250 without any limitation.

[0076] Pushing element 250 is embodied as a rectangular plate herein, thereby forming a hook or lip disposed on sliding body 228. Alternatively, pushing element 250 may include a square plate. Further, pushing element 250 may have another structure, such as an L-shaped structure, a C-shaped structure, etc., without any limitation. When pushing element 250 includes an L-shaped structure or a C-shaped structure, carrier plate 204 may omit cutout 216, so that pushing element 250 may directly engage with building plate 220 for pushing building plate 220 along first direction A1. In addition, in some examples, pushing element 250 may include a mechanical fastener that may be coupled to sliding body 228, such as a bolt, a screw, a pin, etc.

[0077] exist Figure 5 In the example of , each pushing element 250 has a height H3. Further, height H3 of pushing element 250 may be defined such that pushing element 250 may easily pass through gap 227 of rear clip 222, so that pushing element 250 is not engaged with rear clip 222 during movement of pushing element 250 along first direction A1 or direction A4. In addition, height H3 of each pushing element 250 may be obtained such that pushing element 250 may be engaged with the rear side of build plate 220 in the engaged state of build plate 220.

[0078] refer to Figure 6 When a pulling force F3 is applied to handle 246, front clip 240 is first detached from build plate 220 and carrier plate 204, and sliding body 228 is allowed to move (further) relative to carrier plate 204. The pulling force F3 applied by the user can cause upper portion 242 and lower portion 244 (see FIG. 244 ) of each front clip 240 to move. Figure 5 ) is deformed, thereby separating front clip 240 from building plate 220 and carrier plate 204. Figure 6 20. Pushing element 250 is shown in a second position. In this second position, pushing element 250 abuts against build plate 220. It should be noted that when pushing element 250 abuts against build plate 220, build plate 220 and carrier plate 204 will still be in contact with rear clamp 222. It should be further noted that in the second position of pushing element 250, the pair of side guides 226 are also in contact with build plate 220. When sliding body 228 moves (i.e., is pulled) more than a predefined distance D4 (see also Figure 2 ) further, pushing element 250 further pushes building plate 220, thereby detaching building plate 220 from rear clamp 222.

[0079] Once build plate 220 is detached from rear clamp 222, build plate 220 can rest freely on carrier plate 204, possibly still guided by side guides 226. Further, after sliding body 228 moves further than predefined distance D4, each of notches 216 at least partially receives one of push elements 250. Since push elements 250 are received in notches 216 and allowed some travel along first direction A1, build plate 220 can move a sufficient distance along first direction A1, thereby allowing easy removal of build plate 220. The user does not have to apply any additional force on either front clamp 240 or rear clamp 222, so that the risk of plastic deformation of front clamp 240 and rear clamp 222 is reduced.

[0080] Figure 7 At least one pushing element 250 is schematically shown in a third position. Specifically, continued application of pulling force F3 causes sliding body 228 to move along first direction A1, so that pushing element 250 moves from the second position to the third position. Further, in the third position of pushing element 250, the pair of side guides 226 are in contact with build plate 220, thereby keeping build plate 220 centered. In addition, the movement of sliding body 228 causes pushing element 250 to move a distance D1 until pushing element 250 abuts carrier plate 204. Pushing element 250 is arranged to move build plate 220 along first direction A1 by a distance D1, such that distance D1 is equal to a cut length L1 of at least one cut 216. Further, since cut length L1 can vary from 10 mm to 15 mm, the distance D1 that pushing element 250 can travel along first direction A1 can also vary from 10 mm to 15 mm. It should be noted that kerf length L1 and distance D1 can be obtained so that build plate 220 can be easily removed and / or installed. In some examples, kerf length L1 and distance D1 can be based on additive manufacturing system 100 (see Figure 1 ) size. Therefore, in some examples, the incision length L1 and the distance D1 can be greater than 15 mm. Further, the movement of build plate 220 by distance D1 can allow the user to conveniently manipulate build plate 220 for removing and / or installing build plate 220. In addition, the user can remove build plate 220 using bare hands or using any protective device (e.g., gloves). In other examples, the user can use a tool to remove build plate 220.

[0081] After removing build plate 220, the user may desire to reinstall build plate 220 in the engaged state. To move build plate 220 to the engaged state, the user may first place build plate 220 on carrier plate 204. Due to the design of slide body 228 and side guides 226, the placement of build plate 220 on carrier plate 204 may cause build plate 220 to contact the pair of side guides 226. Subsequently, the user may hold handle 246 to move slide body 228 in direction A4 (i.e., the opposite direction of A1) until build plate 220 engages with rear clamp 222. The engagement of build plate 220 with rear clamp 222 may place build plate 220 in the engaged state. Thus, the print bed assembly 200 described herein may allow for easy engagement and disengagement of build plate 220. Further, the design of print bed assembly 200 may prevent failure of front clamp 240 and rear clamp 222 during removal and / or installation of build plate 220. The print bed assembly 200 described herein may exhibit improved reliability and may also improve the performance of the additive manufacturing system 100 (see Figure 1 In addition, the print bed assembly 200 makes the additive manufacturing system 100 user-friendly.

[0082] Figure 8 2 and 3. Shown is a sliding body 228 and a handle 246 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the sliding body 228 is coupled to two push elements 802, but unlike the Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The explanation of the pushing element 250 is different. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment of the print bed assembly 200, the print bed assembly 200 further includes a flexible member 804 that couples each of the push elements 802 to the sliding body 228. Each flexible member 804 is embodied herein as a coil spring. Alternatively, the flexible member 804 may include any other type of flexible device known in the art. In some examples, the flexible member 804 and the push element 802 may be separate components coupled to the sliding body 228 by any suitable coupling method. In some other examples, the push element 802 and the flexible member 804 may be integral with the sliding body 228.

[0083] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Details of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention are presented. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 References are shown in Figure 1-7 A portion of the print bed assembly 200 is illustrated. Fig. 9 Build plate 220 is shown in an engaged state. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 2 , the print bed assembly 200 further includes a handle 246 (see FIG. 240 ) coupled to the print bed assembly 200 via a slide 228. Figure 5 ) of the slide body 228. The additional pushing element 902 extends from the slide body 228. Further, the additional pushing element 902 is spaced apart from the at least one pushing element 250 along the second direction A2. The print bed assembly 200 may include two additional pushing elements 902 (only one of which is shown herein) that may be spaced apart from each other along the second direction A2. In an example, the additional pushing element 902 may be integral with the slide body 228. Alternatively, each of the additional pushing elements 902 may embody a separate component that may be coupled to the slide body 228 using a suitable coupling method.

[0084] Further, each of the additional pushing elements 902 includes a first element 904, a second element 906, and a third element 908. The first element 904 of the additional pushing element 902 extends along a first direction A1. The second element 906 of the additional pushing element 902 extends along a third direction A3. The first element 904 and the second element 906 are embodied as rectangular plates that together form an L-shaped structure. Further, the third element 908 extends perpendicular to the second element 906 and parallel to the first element 904. The third element 908 includes a rectangular plate. It should be noted that the additional pushing element 902 can be implemented in any other design without any limitation. When the build plate 220 is in the engaged state, the third element 908 of the additional pushing element 902 is spaced apart from the rear clip 222 by a distance D5.

[0085] Fig.10 Build plate 220 is shown in a disengaged state. Fig.10 , applying a pulling force F3 to at least one handle 246 (see Figure 7 ), the pushing element 250 and the additional pushing element 902 can move along the first direction A1. It should be noted that when the pushing element 250 moves the predefined distance D4 (see Fig. 9 ) and when pushing element 250 abuts against building plate 220, further pushing element 902 can still be spaced apart from rear clamp 222 along first direction A1. Further, further pushing element 902 is arranged to move along first direction A1 when sliding body 228 moves a distance D5 greater than predefined distance D4 (see Fig. 9) and then engage the rear clip 222 so as to open the rear clip 222. Specifically, when the pulling force F3 is applied, the pushing element 250 can move a distance D1. At the same time, the additional pushing element 902 can abut at least one rear clip 222 and can exert a force on the rear clip 222 to open the rear clip 222. Further, the force applied by the additional pushing element 902 can deform the rear clip 222 to open the rear clip 222. Specifically, the upper portion 224 of the rear clip 222 can move in the clockwise direction C1, thereby causing the rear clip 222 to move to the open position. At least one rear clip 222 can remain in the open position until the additional pushing element 902 contacts the rear clip 222. This can facilitate the reinstallation of the build plate 220.

[0086] Further, during installation of build plate 220, additional urging element 902 may move in direction A4. When additional urging element 902 is disengaged from rear clip 222, rear clip 222 may be biased toward the closed position. Furthermore, when build plate 220 is pushed toward rear clip 222, build plate 220 may engage with rear clip 222 and may be disposed in an engaged state.

[0087] Fig.11 Schematically illustrates a perspective view of a print bed assembly 300 according to another embodiment. The print bed assembly 300 includes a stage 202, a build plate 220, and two handles 246, each of which is similar to that described above. A carrier plate 304 is disposed between the stage 202 and the build plate 220. The carrier plate 304 is different from the carrier plate 204 (see Figure 4 ), as will be explained in more detail below. In this embodiment, the print bed assembly 300 further includes two rear clamps 302, 303 arranged to clamp the build plate 220 to the carrier plate 304 at the rear side. The build plate 220 is removably arranged on the carrier plate 304. The print bed assembly 300 also includes two blocking elements 305, 306 arranged at the front side of the carrier plate 304.

[0088] Fig.11 Build plate 220 is shown in an engaged state, wherein build plate 220 is clamped to carrier plate 304 by rear clamps 303, 304 and front clamp 332, which are Fig.16 and Fig.17 This is shown in more detail in Fig.11 In the figure, some clamping elements 310, 312 of the front clamp 332 are indicated. In the embodiment, each of the clamping elements 310, 312 forms a front clamp 332 and a so-called building plate clamp ( Fig.11 20 and 304). As shown in FIG. 20A and 20B , the build plate clamp is a portion of both (not visible in FIG. 2 ), which only clamps to build plate 220 and not to carrier plate 304.

[0089] Now, once the user applies a pulling force F3 at both handles 246, the building plate moves in the first direction A1 until it is blocked by blocking elements 305, 306 (see FIG. Fig.12 ).exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, build plate 220 is detached from rear clamps 302, 303. If the user further pulls handle 246, build plate 220 will also become completely detached from clamping elements 310, 312, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 as shown in .

[0090] Figures 14 to 17 A perspective view of a portion of assembly 300 is shown, showing only one corner of build plate 220 and one of handles 246 . Fig.14 246 and build plate 220 are shown in an engaged state. In this embodiment, each of blocking elements 305, 306 includes an abutment 320 for limiting the movement of build plate 220 relative to carrier plate 304 in a first direction A1. Blocking elements 305, 306 may be extensions of carrier plate 304 into which bolts are screwed to form abutment 320. In the engaged state, abutment 320 is spaced apart from the front side of build plate 220 by a predefined distance D6 (see FIG. Fig.14 ). In this example, carrier plate 304 below build plate 220 includes one or more cutouts 324 (see dashed lines). This cutout 324 enables clamping element 326 to reach the bottom surface of build plate 220. Clamping element 326, together with a portion of clamping element 310, acts as a build plate clamp 330 (see also FIG. 1 ) arranged to clamp only build plate 220. Fig.16 Build plate clamps 330 are arranged to apply sufficient clamping force to build plate 220 such that friction between clamping elements 310 , 326 and build plate 220 is achieved, which overcomes other friction forces on build plate 220 originating from rear clamps 302 , 303 and front clamp 332 , and possibly other forces (e.g., forces applied by side guides 226 and / or gravity on build plate 220 ).

[0091] Fig.15 Build plate 220 is shown in a blocked state, wherein build plate 220 is pulled to abutment 320. In this state, build plate 220 has been released from rear clamps 302, 303 (see also Fig.12 ).

[0092] Fig.16 Build plate 220 is shown in a fully disengaged state, wherein handle 246 is further pulled in first direction A1, but build plate 220 cannot move further, thereby releasing build plate 220 from build plate clamps 330. In this state, build plate 220 has been released from both rear clamps 302, 303 and build plate clamps 330. Now, a user can easily pick up build plate 220.

[0093] It should be noted that Fig.15 , front clamp 332 has released build plate 220 because in this state clamping element 340 ( Fig.15 (not visible in FIG) has slid from the bottom surface of the carrier plate 304. However, in Fig.15 , build plate 220 is still held by build plate clamp 330 .

[0094] Fig.17 A perspective view from the side of the print bed assembly 300 is shown to better illustrate the details of the slide body 328. The slide body 328 is slidably disposed between the stage 202 and the carrier plate 304. The slide body 328 includes a Figure 5 The plurality of grooves ( Fig.17 One or more guide members are arranged through these slots, such as Figure 5 Due to the groove and the guide member, the sliding body 328 can move in directions A1 and A4, but in a limited manner. The sliding body 328 may look like Figure 5 300, but need not extend all the way to the rear side of assembly 300. In an embodiment, sliding body 328 is arranged to connect two handles 246. In this way, pulling handle 246 will cause both handle 246 and sliding body 328 to move in a controlled manner so that both front clamps 332 will be released simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. This will also take into account the two build plate clamps 330.

[0095] It should be noted that build plate clamp 330 can be arranged independently of front clamp 332, without sharing a common clamping element. In some configurations, this may even be preferred, as build plate clamp 330 can then be designed independently of front clamp 332. This is preferred if build plate clamp 330 needs to be much stronger than front clamp 332. It should be noted that build plate clamp 330 needs to pull build plate 220 in first direction A1, which requires sufficient friction on build plate 220.

[0096] It is contemplated that there is only one handle coupled to the front clamp and the build plate clamp. It is also contemplated that the handle is spaced apart from the front clamp and the front clamp is coupled to the sliding body at a location away from the handle. This also takes into account reference Figure 2-10 Embodiment described.

[0097] The invention has been described above with reference to several exemplary embodiments as shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications and alternative implementations of some parts or elements are possible and are included in the scope of protection as defined in the appended claims. It should be noted that the embodiments mentioned above illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that a person skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments. In the claims, any reference numerals placed between brackets should not be interpreted as limiting the claims. The use of the verb to include and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claims. The article 'a' or 'an' preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that specific measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

Claims

1. A printing bed assembly (200, 300) for an additive manufacturing system (100), the printing bed assembly (200) comprising: Stand (202); A carrier plate (204, 304) coupled to the platform (202) and spaced apart from the platform, the carrier plate (204, 304) extending along a first direction (A1) from a rear side (212) of the carrier plate (204, 304) to a front side (214) of the carrier plate (204, 304), and extending along a second direction (A2) perpendicular to the first direction (A1); a build plate (220) removably disposed on the carrier plate (204, 304); at least one rear clamp (222, 302, 303) arranged to detachably couple the build plate (220) to the carrier plate (204, 304) at a rear side (212) of the carrier plate (204), wherein the at least one rear clamp (222, 302, 303) is arranged to clamp the build plate (220) to the carrier plate (204, 304) using a first clamping force (F1); A sliding body (228, 328) slidably arranged between the stand (202) and the carrying plate (204, 304); at least one front clamp (240, 332) arranged to removably couple the build plate (220) to the carrier plate (204, 304) at a front side (214) of the carrier plate (204), the at least one front clamp (240, 332) being coupled to the slide body (228, 328), wherein the at least one front clamp (240, 332) is arranged to clamp the build plate (220) to the carrier plate (204, 304) using a second clamping force (F2); at least one handle (246) coupled to the sliding body (228, 328) at the front side (214) of the carrier plate (204, 304); at least one pushing element (250) coupled to a rear side of the sliding body (228) and arranged to move the building plate (220) relative to the carrier plate (204) along the first direction (A1) only after the sliding body (228) has moved a predefined distance (D4), When a pulling force (F3) is applied to the at least one handle (246) along the first direction (A1), the sliding body (228) moves relative to the carrier plate (204), wherein first, the at least one front clamp (240) is detached from the building plate (220) and the carrier plate (204), and then after the sliding body (228) moves beyond the predefined distance (D4), the at least one pushing element (250) pushes the building plate (220) along the first direction (A1), thereby releasing the building plate (220) from the at least one rear clamp (222).

2. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein: The second clamping force (F2) applied by the at least one front clamp (240) is less than the first clamping force (F1) applied by the at least one rear clamp (222).

3. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein: The carrier plate (204) includes at least one cutout (216) disposed at the rear side (212) and aligned with the at least one pushing element (250), and wherein, after the sliding body (228) moves at least the predefined distance (D4), the at least one pushing element (250) is at least partially received in the at least one cutout (216).

4. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 3, wherein: The at least one cut (216) has a cut length (L1), wherein the at least one pushing element (250) is arranged to move the building plate (220) along the first direction (A1) by a distance (D1) such that the distance (D1) is equal to the cut length (L1) of the at least one cut (216).

5. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 4, wherein: The at least one cutout (216) has a cutout length (L1) in the range from 10 mm to 15 mm.

6. The print bed assembly (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a pair of side guides (226) arranged to couple with each of the carrier plate (204) and the build plate (220).

7. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 6, wherein: Each of the pair of side guides (226) extends from the at least one rear clip (222).

8. A print bed assembly (200) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When the pulling force is applied, the at least one pushing element (250) moves along the first direction (A1) from a first position to a second position, wherein, in the first position, the at least one pushing element (250) is spaced apart from the rear side (212) of the carrier plate (204) by at least the predefined distance (D4), and wherein, in the second position, the at least one pushing element (250) abuts the building plate (220).

9. A print bed assembly (200) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one pushing element (250) is integral with the sliding body (228).

10. The print bed assembly (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one flexible member (804) coupling the at least one urging element (802) with the sliding body (228).

11. The print bed assembly (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one additional pushing element (902) coupled to the at least one handle (246) via the slide body (228), the at least one additional pushing element (902) being spaced apart from the at least one pushing element (250) along the second direction (A2), wherein: The at least one further pushing element (902) is arranged to engage the at least one rear clip (222) after the sliding body (228) moves a distance (D5) greater than the predefined distance (D4) along the first direction (A1) so as to open the at least one rear clip (222).

12. The print bed assembly (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one guide member (236) disposed at least partially between the gantry (202) and the carrier plate (204), wherein: During the movement of the sliding body (228) relative to the carrier plate (204), the sliding body (228) is guided by the at least one guide member (236).

13. The print bed assembly (200) of claim 12, wherein: The sliding body (228) includes at least one slot (238) therethrough, and wherein the at least one guide member (236) is at least partially and slidably received within the at least one slot (238) of the sliding body (228).

14. A print bed assembly (200) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one rear clip (222) includes a leaf spring.

15. A print bed assembly (200) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The supporting plate (204) is spaced apart from the sliding body (228) by a vertical offset (D3) along a third direction (A3) perpendicular to the first direction (A1) and the second direction (A2), and wherein the vertical offset (D3) between the supporting plate (204) and the sliding body (228) is in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm.

16. The print bed assembly (200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a heating element (218) disposed beneath or in the carrier plate (204).

17. An additive manufacturing system (100) comprising a print bed assembly (200) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

Images