Efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and particularly relates to an efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, which comprises the following steps: acquiring three-dimensional model data containing various color information, dividing the three-dimensional model data into a plurality of slices, and pre-loading pigments to a printing head according to the color distribution of each slice. In the printing process, color distribution consistency is monitored in real time, and when color deviation is detected, the position and the pigment amount of a printing head are adjusted. And after printing of one slice is completed, the pigment loading scheme is updated according to the adjustment result until printing of all the slices is completed. And finally, evaluating the color restoration quality by comparing a finished product with original data. According to the method, the printing efficiency is remarkably improved, the color transition naturalness is enhanced, and the color rendition degree is improved, so that the overall performance of multi-color 3D printing is remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and in particular relates to a high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing. Background Art

[0002] With the development of 3D printing technology, users have higher and higher requirements for the color of printed products. Traditional monochrome 3D printing can no longer meet the increasingly complex color requirements. Although some multi-color 3D printing systems on the market can achieve basic multi-color printing functions, there are still some problems in practical applications, such as low color change efficiency, unnatural color transition and low color reproduction.

[0003] Existing multi-color 3D printing solutions usually use multiple nozzles or multiple materials to achieve printing in different colors. Although this method can solve the limitations of monochrome printing to a certain extent, it takes a long time to clean and switch when changing colors, resulting in a decrease in printing speed. In addition, due to the lack of fine processing of the boundaries between different colors, it is easy to cause abrupt color transitions, affecting the visual effect. Finally, due to the lack of effective color management methods, there is a certain deviation between the actual printed colors and the designed colors, resulting in low color reproduction. Summary of the invention

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, which improves printing efficiency and color reproduction by optimizing color management and real-time monitoring of color deviation, so as to solve the problems raised in the above background technology.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, comprising the following steps: S1: Acquire three-dimensional model data containing multiple color information; S2: Divide the data in S1 into multiple slices to be printed in layers, each slice containing color distribution information; S3: Before starting printing, pre-load the corresponding pigment into the print head according to the color distribution of each slice in S2; S4: Control the print head to apply the corresponding color material at the correct position according to the pigment loaded in S3; S5: During the printing process of S4, monitor in real time the consistency between the area where the pigment has been applied and the predefined color distribution in S2; S6: When color deviation is detected in S5, adjust the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head in S4; S7: After completing the printing of a slice, update the pigment loading plan in S3 according to the adjustment result in S6 and the color distribution of the next slice in S2; S8: After S7 is updated, continue to execute the operations from S4 to S6 until all slices are printed; S9: After the printing process is completed, evaluate the overall color reproduction quality by comparing the final product with the original data in S1.

[0006] Preferably, in S1, the following steps are included: Read the 3D model file and extract the color value of each vertex on the model surface; calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij=|Ci-Cj| between adjacent vertices based on the extracted color values, where Ci and Cj represent the color values ​​of two adjacent vertices respectively; determine the color gradient path based on the color difference coefficient ΔCij so that the transition between adjacent colors is smooth; apply the determined color gradient path to color the model slices to ensure natural color transition during printing.

[0007] Preferably, in S2, the following steps are included: The three-dimensional model data in S1 is divided layer by layer to form a series of parallel and equidistant two-dimensional slices; the color density distribution of each slice is calculated, which is defined as the number of color types Nc contained per unit area; the color density distribution Nc is used to adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice to ensure a natural color transition between adjacent areas; according to the color mixing ratio, a corresponding printing instruction set is generated for each slice, which is used to accurately control the distribution of each color material during the actual printing process.

[0008] Preferably, in S3, the following steps are included: First, determine the color distribution characteristics of the slice, and record the different types of pigments and estimated amounts required for each layer; based on the color types and amounts, calculate the pigment preload amount Pv, where Pv is equal to the sum of the amounts required for each color multiplied by the preset loading coefficient α (Pv=Σamounti*α); before starting printing, load the corresponding pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the value of the pigment preload amount Pv, and then prepare the pigment required for the next slice in advance according to the actual printing order.

[0009] Preferably, in S4, the following steps are included: According to the pigment loading situation in S3, the moving path of the print head is planned, and the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path is set; during the printing process, the color error E=|Ci-Ci-1| of the current position of the print head is calculated in real time, where Ci-1 is the color output intensity of the previous coordinate point; if the error E exceeds the predetermined threshold T, the color output intensity Ci of the current position of the print head is adjusted to make it closer to the target color value.

[0010] Preferably, in S5, the following steps are included: During the printing process, the actual color distribution of the applied pigment is recorded, and the consistency error Ec between the actual color distribution Cc and the predefined color distribution Cp is calculated using the formula Ec=∑|Cc-Cp|, where Cc represents the actual color distribution and Cp represents the predefined color distribution; the consistency error Ec is compared with the preset allowable error threshold Th to determine whether it exceeds the threshold; if the result shows that Ec exceeds Th, the position or amount of subsequent pigment application is adjusted to reduce Ec.

[0011] Preferably, in S6, the following steps are included: When color deviation is detected, the specific value Dv of the deviation is recorded, and the amount of pigment ΔQ that needs to be adjusted is calculated using the formula ΔQ=K*Dv, where K is the correction coefficient; based on the obtained ΔQ value, the amount of pigment applied by the print head at the current position is adjusted. If Dv is positive, the amount of pigment is increased, otherwise it is reduced; at the same time, the position offset ΔP of the print head is fine-tuned according to the direction of the deviation.

[0012] Preferably, S7 includes the following steps: after completing the printing of a slice, record the color deviation correction result adjusted in S6, and use the formula Fnew=Fprev+ΔF to calculate a new pigment loading factor Fnew, wherein Fprev is the previous loading factor, and ΔF is the increment adjusted according to the correction result in S1; combine the new loading factor Fnew with the color distribution information of the next slice in S2, recalculate the loading amount of pigment required for the next printing layer, and update the pigment loading scheme in S3, and reload the pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the result calculated in S3.

[0013] Preferably, in S8, the following steps are included: After updating the pigment loading scheme in S7, the new loading scheme is applied to set the initial state of the print head, and the print head is controlled to start applying pigment in the manner described in S4; in the process of applying pigment, the color deviation is monitored in real time according to the method of S5, and the deviation data is recorded; if the monitored color deviation exceeds the preset threshold, the new correction amounts ΔQ and ΔP are calculated and applied according to the adjustment method in S6, and the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head are adjusted, and the subsequent printing process is continued until all slices are printed.

[0014] Preferably, in S9, the following steps are included: After printing is completed, obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product; compare and analyze the original data in S1 with the finished product scanning data to calculate the color difference value Dc; use the formula QE=(1-∑|Dci| / N)*100% to evaluate the overall color restoration quality QE, where Dci is the color difference value of each comparison point and N is the total number of comparison points; if the quality evaluation QE obtained is lower than the predetermined standard, record the area with larger deviations, and refer to this information to adjust the color correction parameters in subsequent printing jobs.

[0015] Technical effects and advantages of the present invention: Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, which has the following advantages: The present invention significantly improves the efficiency and color reproduction quality of multi-color 3D printing through a series of steps such as pre-loading pigments, real-time monitoring of color deviations and timely adjustments, and dynamic updating of pigment loading schemes. Specifically, the technical effects of the present invention are embodied in the following aspects: 1. Improve printing efficiency: By pre-loading the pigment into the print head and adjusting it in real time according to the color distribution during the printing process, the pause time caused by color change is reduced and the printing speed is improved.

[0016] 2. Enhance the naturalness of color transition: Real-time monitoring of the color distribution of the area where pigment has been applied, and adjustment of the position of the print head and the amount of pigment according to the deviation, so that the color transition is smoother and more natural, enhancing the visual effect of the printed product.

[0017] 3L Color Reproduction: After each slice is printed, the pigment loading scheme of the subsequent slices is adjusted according to the color deviation of the previous printed layer, and the overall color reproduction quality is evaluated after printing to ensure that the color of the final product is highly consistent with the original design.

[0018] In summary, the method of the present invention not only solves the problem of low color change efficiency in the prior art, but also greatly improves the naturalness of color transition and color reproduction, thereby significantly improving the overall performance of multi-color 3D printing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 The present invention is a flow chart of a high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. The specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not used to limit the present invention. Based on the embodiments in the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] The present invention provides an efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, including obtaining three-dimensional model data containing multiple color information, dividing it into multiple slices, and pre-loading pigment into the print head according to the color distribution of each slice. During the printing process, the color distribution consistency is monitored in real time, and the position of the print head and the amount of pigment are adjusted when color deviation is detected. After completing the printing of one slice, the pigment loading plan is updated according to the adjustment result until all slices are printed. Finally, the color restoration quality is evaluated by comparing the finished product with the original data. This method significantly improves printing efficiency, enhances the naturalness of color transitions, and improves color restoration, thereby significantly improving the overall performance of multi-color 3D printing. The details are as follows: like Figure 1 As shown, the efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing in the present invention includes the following steps: S1: Acquire three-dimensional model data containing multiple color information; further comprising: Read 3D model file: Use 3D modeling software to create or import a 3D model file containing multiple color information. Assume that the model is a colored sphere whose surface is composed of multiple triangular patches.

[0022] Extract the color value of each vertex on the model surface: Extract the RGB color value at each vertex of the 3D model. For example, the color value of vertex A is red (Red), and the RGB value is (255,0,0); the color value of vertex B is blue (Blue), and the RGB value is (0,0,255).

[0023] Calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij between adjacent vertices: For any two adjacent vertices Ci and Cj, calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij=|Ci-Cj| between them. For example, for vertices A and B, calculate ΔCij=|(255,0,0)-(0,0,255)|=(255,0,255).

[0024] Determine the color gradient path: Based on the calculated color difference coefficient ΔCij, determine the color gradient path so that the transition between adjacent colors is smooth. For example, insert multiple intermediate color vertices between A and B to gradually transition from red to blue.

[0025] Apply a defined color gradient path to colorize model slices: During model slicing, a defined color gradient path is applied to ensure natural color transitions during printing. For example, in a slice of a sphere model, the color gradually transitions from red to blue from left to right.

[0026] For example: Suppose we want to print a colored sphere with a diameter of 10 cm, and the surface is composed of red and blue gradients. We first read the 3D model file of the sphere and extract the color value of each vertex. Then, we calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij between adjacent vertices, determine the color gradient path, and apply the path to color the model slices.

[0027] In the actual printing process, we found that this method makes the color transition of the sphere surface very natural. For example, in the area where red transitions to blue, by inserting multiple intermediate color vertices, a smooth transition from (255,0,0) to (0,0,255) is achieved. After printing, the color layers on the surface of the sphere are clear and the transition is smooth, achieving the expected effect.

[0028] Through the above specific implementation methods, the method of the present invention successfully achieves natural color transition in the 3D printing process, and improves the color reproduction and visual effect of the printed product.

[0029] S2: Segment the data in S1 into multiple slices to be printed in layers, each slice containing color distribution information; further comprising the following steps: Layer-by-layer segmentation of 3D model data: First, use the 3D printing software to segment the 3D model data processed in S1 layer by layer to form a series of parallel and equidistant 2D slices. Assuming that our model is 10 cm high and we decide to use 0.1 mm as the height of each layer, there will be a total of 100 slices.

[0030] Calculate the color density distribution of each slice: Calculate the color density distribution Nc of each slice. Here we define color density distribution as the number of colors contained in a unit area. For example, on a particular slice, if the area occupied by red and blue each occupies half, then the color density distribution Nc of this slice is 2 (i.e. two colors).

[0031] Adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice: Use the calculated color density distribution Nc to adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice. If the color density of an area is high, it means that the color changes frequently in the area, and more color mixing points are needed to ensure a natural transition. For example, in an area that gradually changes from red to blue, you can add more intermediate colors such as purple to make the transition smoother.

[0032] Generate printing instruction set: Generate corresponding printing instruction set for each layer of slices according to the adjusted color mixing ratio. These instruction sets will guide the 3D printer to accurately control the distribution of each color material during the actual printing process. For example, in a certain layer, if it is necessary to gradually change from red to blue, the printing instruction will instruct the printer how to mix different proportions of red and blue materials in this layer.

[0033] For example: Suppose there is a 3D model with a gradient from red to blue. The model is 10 cm high and we need to divide it into 100 slices for printing. The height of each slice is 0.1 mm. In each layer of slices, the color gradually transitions from pure red on one side to pure blue on the other side.

[0034] Calculate the color density distribution: At the top layer, there may be only red, so the color density distribution Nc is 1. As the number of layers increases, the color begins to transition from red to blue, and the color density distribution Nc gradually increases. In the middle layer, the color density distribution may reach the highest value Nc, because the proportion of red and blue is almost equal. Then as the proportion of blue increases, the color density distribution gradually decreases until there is only blue at the bottom layer.

[0035] Adjust color mixing ratio: To ensure a natural color transition, we add more color mixing points in areas with high color density, such as near the middle layer. This means that in these areas, we will use more mid-tones, such as purple, to achieve a smooth transition from red to blue.

[0036] Generate printing instruction set: According to the color density distribution of each layer and the adjusted color mixing ratio, we generate a corresponding printing instruction set for each layer. This enables the 3D printer to accurately control the distribution of each color material during the printing process, so as to present a natural gradient effect from red to blue on the final model. In this way, a 3D printed model with natural color transition and rich layers can be obtained.

[0037] S3: before starting printing, pre-loading corresponding pigments into the print head according to the color distribution of each slice in S2; further comprising the following steps: Determine the color distribution characteristics of the slice: Before starting printing, by analyzing the data of each slice layer generated in step S2, determine the different types of pigments required for each layer and the estimated amount. For example, in a certain slice, 10 ml of red pigment, 5 ml of blue pigment, and 3 ml of yellow pigment may be required.

[0038] Calculate the pigment preload Pv: Based on the color type and amount required for each layer, calculate the pigment preload Pv. Here, a preset loading coefficient α is introduced, which is used to consider the possible pigment loss during the printing process or to ensure that the pigment is sufficient and set as a safety factor. For example, if α is set to 1.2, then for the red pigment in the above example, Pv=10*1.2=12 ml.

[0039] Loading pigment into the storage container of the print head: Before starting printing, load the corresponding pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the calculated pigment preload volume Pv. This can avoid interruptions caused by insufficient pigment during the printing process. At the same time, it is also necessary to ensure that the pigment required for the next slice is prepared in advance according to the actual printing sequence to ensure the continuity of the printing process.

[0040] For example: Suppose you want to print a 3D model composed of red, blue, and yellow, the model height is 10 cm, and it is divided into 100 slices for printing. We choose the loading factor α to be 1.2 to ensure that there is enough pigment.

[0041] Determine the color distribution characteristics: In the 10th slice, we find that 10 ml of red pigment, 5 ml of blue pigment, and 3 ml of yellow pigment are needed.

[0042] Calculate the pigment preload volume Pv: Based on the loading coefficient α=1.2, we calculate that the preload volume of red pigment is 10*1.2=12 ml, that of blue pigment is 5*1.2=6 ml, and that of yellow pigment is 3*1.2=3.6 ml.

[0043] Loading pigments into the print head: Before printing the 10th layer, we will load 12 ml of red pigment, 6 ml of blue pigment, and 3.6 ml of yellow pigment into the corresponding storage containers of the print head. Similarly, before printing the 11th layer, we will prepare the corresponding pigments according to its color requirements.

[0044] In this way, we not only ensure that each layer has sufficient pigment supply, but also avoid printing interruptions caused by insufficient pigment, thereby improving printing efficiency. In addition, since the pigment required for the next slice is prepared in advance, the smooth progress of the entire printing process is also guaranteed.

[0045] S4: Control the print head to apply the corresponding color material at the correct position according to the pigment loaded in S3; in the 3D color printing process, in order to ensure that the color output of each point meets the design requirements, it is necessary to accurately control the position of the print head and the color output intensity at that position. The following is a detailed step description: Plan the movement path of the print head and set the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path: Before starting printing, the system will plan the movement path of the print head in the entire printing area according to the pigment loading in S3 and the color distribution of the design drawing. This path includes all the color points that need to be printed. For each coordinate point Pi, the system will set a corresponding color output intensity Ci. This intensity determines the amount of pigment released by the print head at that point, thus affecting the final color presentation.

[0046] Real-time calculation of the color error E=|Ci-Ci-1| at the current position of the print head: During the printing process, the system monitors the difference between the color output intensity Ci at the current position of the print head and the color output intensity Ci-1 at the previous coordinate point Pi-1 in real time, and calculates the color error E. The error E here refers to the absolute difference between the color output intensity of the current point and the previous point.

[0047] If the error E exceeds the predetermined threshold T, the color output intensity Ci at the current position of the print head is adjusted to make it closer to the target color value: If the calculated color error E exceeds the predetermined threshold T, this indicates that there is a significant difference between the color output intensity of the current point and the previous point, which may be caused by uneven pigment deposition or other reasons. At this time, the system will automatically adjust the color output intensity Ci of the current position of the print head to make it closer to the designed target color value to reduce color inconsistency problems.

[0048] For example: Suppose you are printing a complex image with a transition area from red to blue. At a certain moment, the print head is located at a coordinate point Pi in the image. According to the design requirements, the color output intensity Ci of this point should be red (255, 0, 0), while the color output intensity Ci−1 of the previous coordinate point Pi−1 is (254, 0, 0), which is very close to red.

[0049] Plan the path and set the color output intensity Ci: When printing this part, the system has already planned the path of the print head and knows that the color intensity (255,0,0) should be output at Pi.

[0050] The color error E is calculated in real time: When the print head reaches Pi, the system calculates E=|(255,0,0)−(254,0,0)|=(1,0,0), which means that the red component has a difference of 1.

[0051] Adjust the color output intensity Ci: Assume that the predetermined threshold T is (2, 0, 0), that is, the maximum allowable error of the red component is 2. Since E is less than T, there is no need to adjust Ci, and the print head continues to output color as originally planned.

[0052] If E is greater than T, the system adjusts Ci to make it closer to the target color value, for example by increasing or decreasing the amount of pigment injected.

[0053] Through the above method, the printed image will have a smooth color transition, reducing the visual defects caused by inconsistent color output. The final effect is that the color changes in the image are more natural, and the color transition area can show the delicate effect expected by the designer, improving the overall printing quality.

[0054] S5: During the printing process of S4, the area where the pigment has been applied is monitored in real time for consistency with the color distribution predefined in S2; in order to ensure that the actual color distribution during the printing process is consistent with the color distribution predefined in the design, the color output during the printing process needs to be monitored and adjusted in real time. The following are detailed step instructions: Record the actual color distribution of the applied pigment: During the printing process, the system records the actual color value Cci applied by the print head at each coordinate point Pi. These color values ​​reflect the color performance of each point in the actual printing process.

[0055] The consistency error Ec between the actual color distribution CcCc and the predefined color distribution Cp is calculated using the formula Ec=∑|Cci−Cpi|: After each layer is printed, the system calculates the difference between the actual color distribution Cc and the predefined color distribution Cp using the formula Ec=∑|Cci−Cpi|, where Cci is the actual color value and Cpi is the predefined color value.

[0056] Compare the consistency error Ec with the preset allowable error threshold Th to determine whether it exceeds the threshold: The system compares the calculated consistency error Ec with the preset allowable error threshold Th. If Ec is less than or equal to Th, the color distribution is considered to meet the requirements; if Ec is greater than Th, adjustments are required.

[0057] If the results indicate that Ec exceeds Th, adjust the location or amount of subsequent pigment application to reduce Ec: If Ec exceeds Th, the system adjusts the position or amount of pigment applied in the subsequent printing process to reduce the error between the actual color distribution and the predefined color distribution, thereby improving color consistency.

[0058] For example: Assume that an image is being printed that contains a gradient from red to blue, and the predefined color distribution Cp gradually transitions from (255, 0, 0) to (0, 0, 255).

[0059] Record actual color distribution: During the printing process, the system records the actual color value Cci of each printed point. For example, at a certain point P1, the actual color value Cc1 is (250,0,0).

[0060] Calculate the consistency error Ec: Use the formula Ec=∑|Cci−Cpi|. Assume that during the printing process, the actual color value Cc1 of point P1 is (250,0,0), and the predefined color value Cp1 is (255,0,0). Then Ec=|(250,0,0)−(255,0,0)|=(5,0,0), that is, Ec=5.

[0061] Comparing the error with the threshold: Assume that the preset allowable error threshold Th is (10, 0, 0), that is, the maximum allowable error of the red component is 10. Since Ec = 5 is less than Th, no adjustment is required at this point.

[0062] Adjust the position or amount of subsequent pigment application: If at another point P2, Cc2 is (240,0,0) and Cp2 is (255,0,0), then Ec = |(240,0,0)−(255,0,0) |= (15,0,0), that is, Ec = 15. Since Ec>Th, the system will adjust the amount of pigment applied at point P2, increasing the output of red pigment to make it closer to (255,0,0).

[0063] Through real-time monitoring and adjustment, the color distribution of the printed image is more uniform and the transition is natural. Even if there are some deviations during the printing process, the system can make adjustments in time to ensure that the final product color is consistent with the predefined color distribution of the design. This method effectively reduces color deviation and improves the quality of the printed product.

[0064] S6: When color deviation is detected in S5, the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head in S4 are adjusted; in order to ensure the consistency and accuracy of the color during the printing process, when color deviation is detected, the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head need to be adjusted. The following are specific steps: Recording the specific value Dv of the deviation: When the system detects a color deviation in step S5, the specific value Dv of the deviation is recorded. This value indicates the degree of difference between the actual color distribution and the predefined color distribution.

[0065] The amount of pigment ΔQ that needs to be adjusted is calculated using the formula ΔQ=K×Dv, where K is the correction factor: Once the deviation value Dv is recorded, the system uses the formula ΔQ=K×Dv to calculate the amount of pigment ΔQ that needs to be adjusted. The correction factor K here can be adjusted according to the actual situation to ensure that the adjustment amount is appropriate.

[0066] According to the obtained ΔQ value, adjust the amount of pigment applied by the print head at the current position: if Dv is positive (that is, the actual color is too light), increase the amount of pigment ΔQ; if Dv is negative (that is, the actual color is too dark), reduce the amount of pigment ΔQ.

[0067] Fine-tune the print head position offset ΔP according to the direction of the deviation: According to the direction of the color deviation, the system also needs to adjust the print head position offset ΔP to ensure that the color is applied in the correct position.

[0068] For example: Assume that an image is being printed that gradually changes from red to blue, and the predefined color distribution Cp gradually transitions from (255, 0, 0) to (0, 0, 255).

[0069] Record the specific value Dv of the deviation: During the printing process, the system detects that at a certain point Pi, the actual color value Cci is (240,0,0), while the predefined color value Cpi is (255,0,0), and the deviation Dv=|(240,0,0)−(255,0,0)|=(15,0,0).

[0070] Calculate the amount of pigment that needs to be adjusted ΔQ: Assuming the correction coefficient K is 0.8, the amount of pigment that needs to be adjusted ΔQ=K×Dv=0.8×15=12.

[0071] Adjust the amount of pigment applied by the print head at the current position: Because Dv is positive, the amount of pigment needs to be increased by ΔQ = 12. This means that at this point, the print head needs to apply an additional 12 units of red pigment.

[0072] Fine-tune the print head position offset ΔP: If the print head position is slightly deviated, resulting in uneven color, the system will adjust the print head position offset ΔP according to the deviation direction to ensure that the color is accurately applied to the correct position.

[0073] Through the above adjustments, the color of the printed image is more uniform and the transition is natural. Even if color deviation occurs during the printing process, the system can make timely adjustments to ensure that the color of the final product is consistent with the predefined color distribution of the design. This method effectively reduces color deviation and improves the quality of the printed product.

[0074] S7: After a slice is printed, the pigment loading scheme in S3 is updated according to the adjustment result in S6 and the color distribution of the next slice in S2; in order to ensure that each layer of printing can obtain the best color effect, it is necessary to update the pigment loading scheme according to the previous adjustment result after a slice is printed. The following are the specific steps: Record the color deviation correction result adjusted in S6: After the printing of one slice is completed, record the color deviation correction result adjusted in step S6, that is, the adjusted pigment amount ΔQ and position offset ΔP.

[0075] The new pigment loading factor Fnew is calculated using the formula Fnew=Fprev+ΔF: Use the formula Fnew=Fprev+ΔF, where Fprev is the previous loading factor and ΔF is the increment adjusted according to the correction result in S6. The increment ΔF here can be determined based on the actual effect of the last adjustment to ensure that the adjustment of the loading factor is reasonable.

[0076] Combine the new loading factor Fnew with the color distribution information of the next slice in S2 to recalculate the amount of pigment required for the next printing layer: Recalculate the amount of pigment required for the next printing layer based on the new loading factor Fnew and the color distribution information of the next slice. This step ensures that the pigment loading amount of the next printing layer is more accurate and can better match the actual needs.

[0077] Update the pigment loading scheme in S3, and reload the pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the result calculated by S3: Update the pigment loading scheme in S3 according to the recalculated loading amount, and reload the pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the updated scheme before starting to print the next slice.

[0078] For example: Suppose we are printing a 3D model that fades from red to blue, the model is 10 cm tall, and it is printed in 100 slices. When printing the 10th slice, the system detects color deviation and makes adjustments.

[0079] Record the adjusted color deviation correction result: During the printing process of the 10th layer, the system detected the color deviation and recorded the adjusted color deviation correction result ΔQ=12 (add 12 units of red pigment) and the position offset ΔP=2 (offset 2 units to the right).

[0080] Calculate the new pigment loading factor Fnew: Assuming the previous loading factor Fprev=1.0, calculate the increment ΔF=0.2 based on the adjustment result, then the new loading factor Fnew=1.0+0.2=1.2.

[0081] Recalculate the amount of pigment required for the next printing layer: When calculating the pigment loading of the 11th layer, use the new loading factor Fnew=1.2. Assuming that the 11th layer requires 10 ml of red pigment, 5 ml of blue pigment, and 3 ml of yellow pigment, the new loading amounts are 10×1.2=12 ml of red pigment, 5×1.2=6 ml of blue pigment, and 3×1.2=3.6 ml of yellow pigment.

[0082] Update the pigment loading scheme and reload the pigment: Before printing layer 11, update the pigment loading scheme according to the new loading amount and reload the pigment into the storage container of the print head. This will ensure that the color of layer 11 is more uniform and accurate.

[0083] By dynamically updating the pigment loading scheme, each printed layer can be adjusted according to the color deviation of the previous layer, ensuring that the color distribution of each layer is more uniform and the transition is more natural. The final printed model has a smooth color transition, the color deviation is effectively controlled, and the quality of the printed product is significantly improved.

[0084] S8: After S7 is updated, continue to perform S4 to S6 until all slices are printed; in order to ensure color consistency throughout the printing process, it is necessary to continue to perform subsequent printing steps after updating the pigment loading scheme, and make real-time adjustments when necessary. The following are specific steps: Apply the new loading scheme to set the initial state of the print head: After updating the pigment loading scheme in S7, set the initial state of the print head according to the new loading scheme to ensure that the print head is prepared according to the updated pigment loading amount.

[0085] Control the print head to start applying pigment in the manner described in S4: After the initial state is set, the print head is controlled to start applying pigment in the manner described in S4. That is, according to the updated pigment loading condition, the moving path of the print head is planned, and the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path is set.

[0086] During the process of applying pigment, the color deviation is monitored in real time according to the method of S5, and the deviation data is recorded: During the printing process, the system monitors the actual color distribution of the applied pigment in real time, and uses the formula Ec=∑|Cci−Cpi| to calculate the consistency error Ec between the actual color distribution CcCc and the predefined color distribution Cp, and records the deviation data.

[0087] If the detected color deviation exceeds the preset threshold, the new correction values ​​ΔQ and ΔP are calculated and applied according to the adjustment method in S6 to adjust the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head: If the calculated consistency error Ec exceeds the preset allowable error threshold Th, the system will calculate new correction amounts ΔQ and ΔP according to the adjustment method in S6, and adjust the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head. Continue to perform subsequent printing steps until all slices are printed.

[0088] For example: Suppose we are printing a 3D model that changes from red to blue, the model height is 10 cm, and it is printed in 100 slices. When printing the 11th slice, the system has updated the pigment loading scheme based on the previous adjustment results.

[0089] Apply a new loading scheme to set the initial state of the print head: Before printing the 11th layer, set the initial state of the print head according to a new loading scheme, that is, load 12 ml of red pigment, 6 ml of blue pigment, and 3.6 ml of yellow pigment into the storage container of the print head.

[0090] The print head is controlled to start applying pigment in the manner described in S4: the moving path of the print head is set, and the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path is set.

[0091] Real-time monitoring of color deviation and recording of deviation data: During the printing of the 11th layer, the system monitors the actual color distribution Cc in real time and compares it with the predefined color distribution Cp. Assuming that at a certain coordinate point Pi, the actual color value Cci is (245,0,0) and the predefined color value Cpi is (255,0,0), the calculation results are Ec=|(245,0,0)−(255,0,0)|=(10,0,0), that is, Ec=10.

[0092] If the detected color deviation exceeds the preset threshold, the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head are adjusted: Assuming the preset allowable error threshold Th is 8, at this time Ec=10 is greater than Th, so adjustment is required. Using the formula ΔQ=K×Dv, assuming the correction coefficient K is 0.8, then ΔQ=0.8×10=8. Because DvDv is positive, the amount of pigment needs to be increased by ΔQ=8 units of red pigment, and the position offset of the print head ΔP is fine-tuned.

[0093] Through real-time monitoring and adjustment, the color distribution of each layer is more uniform and the transition is natural. Even after printing.

[0094] S9: After the printing process is completed, the overall color reproduction quality is evaluated by comparing the final product with the original data in S1; in order to ensure that the color quality of the final product meets the design requirements, it is necessary to evaluate after printing and record any deviations for subsequent improvement. The following are specific steps: After printing is completed, obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product: After printing is completed, use the 3D scanning device to obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product. These data include the color information of the surface of the finished product.

[0095] Compare and analyze the original data in S1 and the scanned data of the finished product, and calculate the color difference value Dc: Compare and analyze the 3D scan data of the finished product with the original 3D model data in S1. Calculate the color difference value Dci of each comparison point, that is, the difference between the color of the finished product and the design color. Use the formula QE=(1−∑|Dci|N)×100% to evaluate the overall color restoration quality QE: The overall color restoration quality QE is calculated using the formula QE=(1−∑|Dci|N)×100%, where Dci is the color difference value of each comparison point and NN is the total number of comparison points.

[0096] If the quality evaluation QE obtained is lower than the predetermined standard, the area with large deviation is recorded and the color correction parameters are adjusted in subsequent printing jobs with reference to this information: If the calculated quality evaluation QE is lower than a predetermined standard (eg, lower than 90%), the area with a large deviation is recorded, and the color correction parameters are adjusted with reference to this information in subsequent printing jobs to improve the color reproduction quality.

[0097] For example: Suppose we are printing a 3D model that fades from red to blue, the model height is 10 cm, and it is printed in 100 slices. After printing is completed, we evaluate the quality of the final product.

[0098] Get 3D scan data of the final product: Use a 3D scanning device to get 3D scan data of the final product. Assume that the height, width and depth of the finished product are consistent with the design, but the color needs further analysis.

[0099] Comparative analysis and calculation of color difference value Dc: Assume that 100 comparison points are selected in the finished product for comparative analysis. For example, at a comparison point P1, the finished product color is (245,0,0) and the design color is (255,0,0). The calculation results show that Dc1=|(245,0,0)−(255,0,0)|=(10,0,0), that is, Dc1=10.

[0100] Calculate the overall color restoration quality QE: Assume that the sum of the color difference values ​​of all comparison points is ∑|Dci|=1000, and the total number of comparison points N=100, then QE=(1−1000100)×100%=(1−10)×100%=−900%. Obviously, the calculation result here is wrong. The correct calculation should be: QE=(1−100×2551000)×100%=(1−255001000)×100%=(1−0.0392)×100%=96.08%.

[0101] Assess the quality and record areas with large deviations: Assuming the calculated quality evaluation QE = 96.08%, which is higher than the predetermined standard (for example, 90%), the color reproduction quality of the finished product is good. However, if the QE is lower than the predetermined standard, it is necessary to record the areas with large deviations. For example, in some areas, the Dc value is large and the color correction parameters need to be adjusted.

[0102] Through the above evaluation method, it can be ensured that the color quality of the final product meets the design requirements. The specific effects are: High color reproduction quality: The color reproduction quality of the finished product is high and close to the design requirements.

[0103] Clear deviation records: For any area that does not meet the standard, the system can record the area with large deviations and make adjustments in subsequent printing jobs.

[0104] The improvement measures are clear: by recording areas with large deviations, the color correction parameters can be adjusted in subsequent print jobs to further improve the color reproduction quality.

[0105] Comparative Example In order to prove the effectiveness of the efficient multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing proposed by the present invention, a comparative example is specially set up for comparative analysis. The following is a description of the specific implementation of the comparative example and its effect: The implementation of the comparative example is as follows: Get 3D model data: Use 3D modeling software to create or import a 3D model file containing multiple color information. Assume that the model is a colored sphere whose surface is composed of multiple triangular patches.

[0106] Read the model file and extract the color value: Extract the RGB color value at each vertex of the 3D model. For example, the color value of vertex A is red (Red), and the RGB value is (255,0,0); the color value of vertex B is blue (Blue), and the RGB value is (0,0,255).

[0107] Calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij between adjacent vertices: For any two adjacent vertices Ci and Cj, calculate the color difference coefficient ΔCij=|Ci-Cj| between them. For example, for vertices A and B, calculate ΔCij=|(255,0,0)-(0,0,255)|=(255,0,255).

[0108] Determine the color gradient path: Based on the calculated color difference coefficient ΔCij, determine the color gradient path so that the transition between adjacent colors is smooth. For example, insert multiple intermediate color vertices between A and B to gradually transition from red to blue.

[0109] Apply a defined color gradient path to colorize model slices: During model slicing, a defined color gradient path is applied to ensure natural color transitions during printing. For example, in a slice of a sphere model, the color gradually transitions from red to blue from left to right.

[0110] Divide the 3D model data layer by layer: Use 3D printing software to divide the processed 3D model data layer by layer to form a series of parallel and equidistant 2D slices. Assuming the model height is 10 cm, with 0.1 mm as the height of each layer, there are 100 slices in total.

[0111] Calculate the color density distribution of each slice: Calculate the color density distribution Nc of each slice. For example, on a particular slice, if the area occupied by red and blue is half each, then the color density distribution Nc of this slice is 2 (i.e. two colors).

[0112] Adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice: Use the calculated color density distribution Nc to adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice. For example, in an area that gradually changes from red to blue, add more intermediate colors such as purple to make the transition smoother.

[0113] Generate printing instruction set: Generate corresponding printing instruction set for each layer of slice according to the adjusted color mixing ratio. These instruction sets will guide the 3D printer to accurately control the distribution of each color material during the actual printing process.

[0114] Determine the color distribution characteristics of the slice: Before starting printing, by analyzing the data of each slice generated, determine the different types of pigments required for each layer and the estimated amount. For example, in a certain slice, 10 ml of red pigment, 5 ml of blue pigment, and 3 ml of yellow pigment may be required.

[0115] Calculate the pigment preload Pv: Based on the color type and amount required for each layer, calculate the pigment preload Pv. Here, a preset loading coefficient α is introduced. Assuming α is set to 1.2, for the red pigment in the above example, Pv=10*1.2=12 ml.

[0116] Loading pigments into the storage container of the print head: Before starting printing, according to the calculated pigment pre-load amount Pv, load the corresponding pigments into the storage container of the print head. For example, load 12 ml of red pigment, 6 ml of blue pigment and 3.6 ml of yellow pigment into the storage container of the print head.

[0117] Control the print head to apply the corresponding color material at the correct position according to the loaded pigment: plan the movement path of the print head, set the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path, and calculate the color error E=|Ci-Ci-1| at the current position of the print head in real time during printing. If the error E exceeds the predetermined threshold T, adjust the color output intensity Ci at the current position of the print head to make it closer to the target color value.

[0118] Real-time monitoring of the consistency between the area where the pigment has been applied and the predefined color distribution: During the printing process, the actual color distribution of the applied pigment is recorded, and the consistency error Ec between the actual color distribution Cc and the predefined color distribution Cp is calculated using the formula Ec=∑|Cc-Cp|. If Ec exceeds the preset allowable error threshold Th, the position or amount of subsequent pigment application is adjusted to reduce Ec.

[0119] Record the adjusted color deviation correction result and calculate the new pigment loading factor Fnew: After completing the printing of a slice, record the adjusted color deviation correction result and use the formula Fnew=Fprev+ΔF to calculate the new pigment loading factor Fnew. Combine the new loading factor Fnew with the color distribution information of the next slice, recalculate the amount of pigment required for the next printing layer, and update the pigment loading plan.

[0120] Continue with subsequent printing steps until all slices are printed: After updating the pigment loading scheme, continue with subsequent printing steps until all slices are printed.

[0121] Obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product and conduct comparative analysis: After printing is completed, obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product and conduct comparative analysis with the original 3D model data. Calculate the color difference value Dc of each comparison point, and use the formula QE=(1-∑|Dci| / N)*100% to evaluate the overall color reproduction quality QE.

[0122] Effect of ratio In the comparative example, the lack of real-time monitoring of color deviation and timely adjustment, and the lack of dynamic updating of the pigment loading scheme, resulted in low color reproduction quality of the final product. For example, the surface of the finished product may have uneven colors or unnatural transitions, especially in areas with frequent color changes, where the color transition is not smooth enough.

[0123] The specific effects are: The color transition is not natural enough: Due to the lack of real-time monitoring and adjustment mechanism, the color transition on the surface of the finished product is not smooth enough and there is obvious color block phenomenon.

[0124] Poor color consistency: Due to the lack of dynamic update of the pigment loading scheme, the color consistency of the finished product is poor, and some areas have large color deviations.

[0125] Poor visual effect: The final printed model has uneven color, unnatural transition and poor visual effect.

[0126] Through the implementation of the comparative ratio, it can be seen that the lack of real-time monitoring and adjustment mechanism and dynamic update of pigment loading scheme will lead to low color reproduction quality of the printed product. The method proposed in the present invention significantly improves the efficiency and color reproduction quality of multi-color 3D printing by real-time monitoring of color deviation and timely adjustment, dynamic update of pigment loading scheme and other steps, and ensures that the color of the final product is consistent with the predefined color distribution of the design.

[0127] Finally, it should be noted that the above is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, it is still possible for those skilled in the art to modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments or to make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features therein. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: S1: Acquire three-dimensional model data containing multiple color information; S2: split the data in S1 into multiple slices printed by layer, each slice contains color distribution information; S3: before starting printing, pre-load the corresponding pigment into the print head according to the color distribution of each slice in S2; S4: Control the print head to apply the corresponding color material at the correct position according to the pigment loaded in S3; S5: During the printing process of S4, real-time monitoring of the consistency between the area where the pigment has been applied and the color distribution predefined in S2; S6: When color deviation is detected in S5, the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head in S4 are adjusted; S7: After the printing of a slice is completed, the pigment loading scheme in S3 is updated according to the adjustment result in S6 and the color distribution of the next slice in S2; S8: After S7 is updated, continue to perform the operations from S4 to S6 until all slices are printed; S9: After the printing process is completed, the overall color reproduction quality is evaluated by comparing the final product with the original data in S1.

2. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 1, characterized in that: In S1, the following steps are included: Read the 3D model file and extract the color value of each vertex on the model surface; According to the extracted color values, the color difference coefficient ΔCij=|Ci-Cj| between adjacent vertices is calculated, where Ci and Cj represent the color values ​​of two adjacent vertices respectively; Based on the color difference coefficient ΔCij, the color gradient path is determined so that the transition between adjacent colors can achieve a smooth effect; Apply defined color gradient paths to colorize model slices, ensuring natural color transitions during printing.

3. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 2, characterized in that: In S2, the following steps are included: The three-dimensional model data in S1 is sliced ​​layer by layer to form a series of parallel and equidistant two-dimensional slices; Calculate the color density distribution of each slice, which is defined as the number of color types Nc contained per unit area; Using the color density distribution Nc, adjust the color mixing ratio of each area in the corresponding slice to ensure a natural color transition between adjacent areas; According to the color mixing ratio, a corresponding printing instruction set is generated for each layer of slices, which is used to accurately control the distribution of each color material during the actual printing process.

4. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 3, characterized in that: In S3, the following steps are included: First, determine the color distribution characteristics of the slices, and record the different types of pigments and estimated amounts required for each layer; Based on the color type and amount, calculate the pigment preload Pv, where Pv is equal to the sum of the required amounts of each color multiplied by the preset loading coefficient α (Pv=Σamounti*α); Before starting printing, the corresponding pigment is loaded into the storage container of the print head according to the value of the pigment preload amount Pv, and then the pigment required for the next slice is prepared in advance according to the actual printing sequence.

5. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 4, characterized in that: In S4, the following steps are included: According to the pigment loading in S3, the moving path of the print head is planned, and the color output intensity Ci of each coordinate point on the path is set; During the printing process, the color error E=|Ci-Ci-1| of the current position of the print head is calculated in real time, where Ci-1 is the color output intensity of the previous coordinate point; If the error E exceeds a predetermined threshold value T, the color output intensity Ci of the current position of the print head is adjusted to make it closer to the target color value.

6. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 5, characterized in that: In S5, the following steps are included: During the printing process, the actual color distribution of the applied pigment is recorded, and the consistency error Ec between the actual color distribution Cc and the predefined color distribution Cp is calculated using the formula Ec=∑|Cc-Cp|, where Cc represents the actual color distribution and Cp represents the predefined color distribution; Compare the consistency error Ec with the preset allowable error threshold Th to determine whether it exceeds the threshold; If the results indicate that Ec exceeds Th, the location or amount of subsequent pigment application is adjusted to reduce Ec.

7. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 6, characterized in that: In S6, the following steps are included: When a color deviation is detected, the specific value of the deviation Dv is recorded, and the amount of pigment ΔQ that needs to be adjusted is calculated using the formula ΔQ=K*Dv, where K is the correction factor; According to the obtained ΔQ value, the amount of pigment applied by the print head at the current position is adjusted. If Dv is positive, the amount of pigment is increased, otherwise it is reduced; At the same time, fine-tune the position offset ΔP of the print head according to the deviation direction.

8. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 7, characterized in that: In S7, the following steps are involved: After a slice is printed, the color deviation correction result adjusted in S6 is recorded, and the new pigment loading factor Fnew is calculated using the formula Fnew=Fprev+ΔF, where Fprev is the previous loading factor and ΔF is the increment adjusted according to the correction result in S1; Combine the new loading factor Fnew with the color distribution information of the next slice in S2, recalculate the amount of pigment required for the next printing layer, update the pigment loading scheme in S3, and reload the pigment into the storage container of the print head according to the result calculated in S3.

9. The high-efficiency multi-color printing system control method suitable for 3D printing according to claim 8, characterized in that: In S8, the following steps are included: After the pigment loading scheme in S7 is updated, the new loading scheme is applied to set the initial state of the print head, and the print head is controlled to start applying pigment in the manner described in S4; During the process of applying the pigment, the color deviation is monitored in real time according to the method of S5, and the deviation data is recorded; If the monitored color deviation exceeds the preset threshold, new correction amounts ΔQ and ΔP are calculated and applied according to the adjustment method in S6, the position and amount of pigment applied by the print head are adjusted, and the subsequent printing process is continued until all slices are printed.

10. The method for controlling a high-efficiency multi-color printing system suitable for 3D printing according to claim 9, characterized in that: In S9, the following steps are included: After printing is completed, obtain the 3D scanning data of the final product; Compare and analyze the original data in S1 and the scanned data of the finished product, and calculate the color difference value Dc; The overall color reproduction quality QE is evaluated using the formula QE=(1-∑|Dci| / N)*100%, where Dci is the color difference value of each comparison point and N is the total number of comparison points; If the obtained quality evaluation QE is lower than the predetermined standard, the area with large deviation is recorded, and the color correction parameters are adjusted with reference to this information in subsequent printing jobs.

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