Powder reservoir for additive manufacturing process

Abstract

A powder reservoir for handling powder in an additive manufacturing process, comprising: a powder container (100) having a powder inlet at an upper portion of the powder container and a powder outlet at a lower portion of the container; a set of sensors for determining a set of observable quantities; a first actuator (428, 438, 488, 498, 858) for driving a first mechanical function of the powder reservoir (1), in case the powder reservoir further comprises a second actuator (428, 438, 488, 498, 858) for driving a second mechanical function of the powder reservoir (1) and / or in case the powder reservoir is configured to connect with a corresponding connector of a powder handling station in an additive manufacturing process, additional safety as well as multifunctionality is provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to additive manufacturing based on a powder bed melting process. More specifically, this invention relates to a powder storage device, or so-called "powder reservoir," for use in a powder bed process. The powder reservoir includes at least a powder container (referred to as "container") mounted in a support frame. Background Technology

[0002] Powder bed fusion is a type of additive manufacturing process. In this process, powder layers are applied one after another on top of the previous layer to form a powder bed on a support plate. Before applying a new powder layer, a portion of the applied layer is subjected to radiation, which, through melting, sintering, melting and / or welding or any similar process, causes a portion of the powder particles in one layer to adhere to each other and to the previously applied layer. Powder bed fusion can be considered as melting a series of cross-sections of a workpiece to be manufactured onto a series of corresponding powder layers, thereby forming the workpiece. This melting is achieved by scanning the cross-section using a radiation beam. In this paper, we use the term "powder bed fusion" as a general term that includes all other processes that allow selective adhesion of portions of the powder bed by applying radiation to those portions to be adhered, regardless of whether the adhesion is achieved through melting, melting, welding, sintering, etc. Powder bed fusion is not limited to but allows—unlike most other additive manufacturing processes—the selective melting of metal powder particles to manufacture metal workpieces. Numerous review articles have been published on different aspects and variations of powder bed fusion. At least part of the overview was written by Yi Zhang, Yeon-Gil Jung, and Jing Zhang. Multiscale Modeling of Additively Manufactured Metals: Application to Laser Powder Bed Fusion Process (Additive Manufacturing Materials and Technologies) Available in (Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2020, ISBN 978-0128196007).

[0003] Powder particles typically have submicron diameters and must be stored under specific conditions, usually in an inert gas environment or a vacuum environment, because oxidation of the powder can lead to lower workpiece quality.

[0004] WO 2021 / 123782 A1 relates to a coupling system for an additive manufacturing process. The coupling system includes a conduit for transferring material between a powder reservoir and other components of the additive manufacturing process. The conduit includes a first portion and a second portion connected via an extendable intermediate portion. An actuator operably acts on at least a portion of the conduit to extend or retract the intermediate portion to control the length of the conduit. This allows for coupling and disconnection of the coupling system from a powder release opening of the powder reservoir. The coupling system includes a mechanical support having four tapered pins extending upward and configured to be received by mating through-holes in a support structure of the powder reservoir.

[0005] The authors of WO 2016 / 046539 A2 propose a powder reservoir for transporting metal powder from a manufacturing site to an additive manufacturing (AM) machine. The reservoir has a pressure vessel for containing the powder, a protective frame for providing physical protection to the pressure vessel, and is mounted on an industry-standard pallet system to allow forklift use. The pressure vessel includes an upper section, a lower section, and a removable cover. The upper section is a hollow cylinder, and the lower section is a hollow truncated cone. At the bottom of the truncated cone is an outlet pipe with an outlet control valve. The outlet pipe has a flange for connecting the outlet pipe to the AM machine. A removable cover is located on top of the hollow cylinder, allowing the pressure vessel to be filled once the cover is removed. The cover is then securely bolted to the upper periphery of the hollow cylinder. The environment within the pressure vessel is monitored by data logging devices connected to a communication module with a GSM transceiver. A remote monitoring station polls this communication module, triggering the transmission of sensor readings through the communication module. These sensor readings are provided by pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, humidity sensors, strain gauges, accelerometers, temperature sensors, and GPS position sensors. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an improved powder storage device for storing and conveying powders used in powder bed melting processes.

[0007] This invention is based on a series of observations. First, it is noted that many different powder reservoirs are used in additive manufacturing plants to process powder at different manufacturing stages, only one of which is a melting process. For example, once melting is complete, the workpiece must be separated from the powder bed it was embedded in, and the powder thus obtained is preferably prepared for reuse in the powder bed melting process. Furthermore, the station for preparing for reuse (recycling station) must have at least three types of powder reservoirs, including a source reservoir, a recycled powder reservoir, and a waste reservoir. Similarly, AM machines have a powder overflow reservoir in addition to a powder source reservoir, and typically also a waste reservoir and a buffer reservoir. This invention allows the use of a single type of reservoir instead of all these different reservoirs.

[0008] More specifically, a powder reservoir for handling powders in an additive manufacturing process (“AM process”) may include a powder container, also referred to herein simply as a “container.” A container is essentially an outer shell (a set of container walls) that encloses a container volume (i.e., the volume of the container) for storing powders. Typically, a container has a bottom, at least one side wall, and a top.

[0009] The container, preferably, has a powder inlet and / or a powder outlet. The powder inlet is preferably an opening in the container, i.e., an opening in the outer shell, configured to receive powder from a powder source, for example, via a powder supply line. The powder inlet is preferably located in the upper portion of the container, for example, in the upper half of the container, preferably at the upper third, upper quarter, upper fifth, and / or upper tenth of the container. In a preferred example, the powder inlet is located at the top of the container. Accordingly, the powder outlet may be located below the powder inlet, i.e., in the lower portion of the container, for example, in the lower half of the container, preferably at the lower third, lower quarter, lower fifth, and / or lower tenth of the container. In a preferred example, the powder outlet is located at the bottom of the container. As is generally understood, the terms “upper” and “lower” refer to the normal orientation of the container, such as the orientation one would expect of the container during normal use, also referred to herein as the “first orientation.” As will be explained in more detail below, the container may be rotatably supported, for example, into a second orientation, which may be, for example, an inverted orientation relative to the first orientation, i.e., a so-called “inverted” orientation. By rotating the container, for example, 180°± α h This inverted orientation can be obtained, where "±" α h "Indicates the interval [180°-| α h |;180°+| α h |] is acceptable, and in which α h∈{30°, 20°, 15°, 10°, 5°, 2.5°, 1°, 0}, and where α h A smaller absolute value is preferred. The axis of rotation is preferably at least approximately horizontal, that is, at least approximately perpendicular to the vertical direction. At least approximately horizontal here means that, in [- α h , α h The deviation from the horizontal within the range is acceptable. At least a portion of the bottom is preferably a cone or a truncated cone. The opening angle of the cone or truncated cone... β Accordingly, the angle is preferably between 48° and 62°. β ∈[48°, 62°]), more preferably between 50° and 60° ( β ∈[50°, 60°]), or even more preferably between 51° and 58° ( β ∈[51°, 58°]). A particularly preferred opening angle is... β= 54°±1° β (∈[53°, 55°]). These opening angles are preferred because they eliminate the need for mechanically driven powder conveying or fluidization devices, such as vibrators, powder scrapers, etc., to completely remove powder from the container while maximizing the container volume.

[0010] As is typical, "up" and "down" are directions defined with reference to the direction of gravity (down is parallel to the direction of gravity, and up is in the opposite direction, i.e., anti-parallel). Mentions of "top" or "bottom" assume the orientation of the corresponding component as observed during normal operation. During normal operation, the powder inlet is typically located above the center of the container (mostly at the top), and the powder outlet is typically located below the center of the container (mostly at the bottom). The bottom of the container is the portion that defines the container's volume downwards. The top of the container is the portion that defines the container's volume upwards. The sidewalls connect the bottom and top of the container.

[0011] Preferably, the powder reservoir includes a set for determining n observable quantities. A collection of sensors N ,in It is an integer greater than or equal to two, that is, n ∈{2, 3, 4,…, n max}.right n max There are no theoretical restrictions, but in practice, assumptions can be made. n max It is a small two-digit number (e.g., 20). As already noted, n maxLarger numbers are possible, such as 100, 1000, or 10000, or even higher, but such a high number of sensors is not expected at present, at least not excessively redundant sensor equipment.

[0012] n A collection of sensors N The system may include at least one sensor from the following list, preferably multiple sensors: a container pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the container volume; a force sensor (e.g., a strain gauge) for measuring the force exerted by the container on the frame; a powder level sensor; a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure upstream of the powder inlet valve; a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure downstream of the powder outlet valve; a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference between the container volume and the upstream space of the powder inlet valve; a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference between the container volume and the downstream space of the powder outlet valve; and a gas concentration sensor for at least determining the partial pressure and / or concentration of the gas composition in the container volume and / or the upstream space of the powder inlet valve and / or the downstream space of the powder outlet valve. Each of these sensors provides information that enables monitoring of the conditions under which powder is stored in the container and / or powder is conveyed into or out of the container. The force sensor can be used to determine the amount of powder in the container and the degree of powder compaction due to container vibration can be determined by analyzing the force changing over time and / or by determining the center of mass of the container and the powder therein. In the case of including powder level sensors, the collection Preferably, it includes at least one upper powder level sensor and / or at least one lower powder level sensor. The upper powder level sensor is preferably located in the upper portion of the powder container, for example, at the upper third, upper quarter, upper fifth, upper sixth, upper seventh, upper eighth, upper ninth, upper tenth, or upper twentieth of the powder container, and is configured to determine whether the powder level in the powder container is higher than (including being at) or lower than the location of the upper powder level sensor. Similarly, the lower powder level sensor is preferably located in the lower portion of the powder container, for example, at the lower third, lower quarter, lower fifth, lower sixth, lower seventh, lower eighth, lower ninth, lower tenth, or lower twentieth of the powder container, and is configured to determine whether the powder level in the powder container is higher than (including being at) or lower than the location of the lower powder level sensor.

[0013] The upper powder level sensor and the lower powder level sensor enable effective prevention of powder overflow by shutting off the powder flow into the powder container when the upper powder sensor provides a sensor signal indicating that the powder level is at or above an upper threshold, which may be, for example, the position of the upper powder level sensor.

[0014] A lower powder level sensor ensures that the powder flow through the powder outlet at the bottom of the powder container is not interrupted. For example, if the lower powder sensor provides a sensor signal indicating that the powder level is below a given lower threshold, the manufacturing process of drawing powder from the powder container can be slowed down or completely interrupted. The lower threshold can be the position of the lower powder level sensor.

[0015] The sensor signal from the powder level sensor can be used for cross-checking, such as to verify the signal provided by the force sensor.

[0016] To avoid uncertainty, various types of powder level sensors are typically employed. For example, a distance measuring device can determine the gap between the device and the top layer of powder in a container. An increase in distance reflects a decrease in the powder level. In one example, distance can be measured, for instance, by an optical distance measuring device and / or an acoustic distance measuring device (including ultrasound). In another example, a powder level sensor simply determines whether the powder level is below or above (including at) a predetermined level. Such a powder level sensor can include grating sensors, capacitive sensors, etc. Needless to say, all these different types of powder level sensors can be combined to obtain accurate, reliable, and / or redundant measurements.

[0017] The powder reservoir may also include a multi-port connector configured to connect to a corresponding mating connector of the powder handling equipment in the AM process. Optional multi-port connectors may be plug or socket connectors with multiple ports. At least one port may include an electrical contact of the multi-port connector. Furthermore, the multi-port connector may include fluid ports, such as pressurized gas ports and / or vacuum ports. The multi-port connector may also include waveguide ports for connecting waveguides, such as fiber optic waveguides. As generally understood, a multi-port connector is a plug or socket connector with at least two, preferably even more, ports in a plug-and-socket connection. Each port is configured to provide or facilitate fluid exchange, data exchange, and / or energy exchange with a corresponding mating port of the corresponding mating connector of the powder handling equipment in the AM process. Fluid ports may include gas ports, such as pressurized air ports, vacuum ports, inert gas supply ports, etc. Energy exchange may be achieved through power line terminals (electrical ports), inductive connections via coils (inductive ports), or even rotary connections. Pressurized gas may also be used as an energy source (pressurized fluid port). Data exchange can be achieved via electromagnetic signals (including optical signals), which can be transmitted via cables and / or waveguides. The corresponding cables may have terminals with electrical ports configured as multi-port connectors, and the waveguides may have waveguide ports.

[0018] In a preferred example, the sensor set NThe first sensor in the connector is preferably connected to the first port of the multi-port connector via a first measuring line. As is typical, a connector port is a terminal, etc., that enables the transmission of electricity (e.g., voltage signals), fluid, or electromagnetic waves (e.g., light) to the corresponding port of the mating connector. In the case of purely electrical connectors, each port will be represented by a contact of the connector. We use the term "port" as a general term for "contact" to also include fluid connections or waveguide connections.

[0019] More specifically, a first end of the first measuring line can be connected to a first sensor, and a second end of the first measuring line can be connected to a first port of a multi-port connector. Therefore, once the multi-port connector is connected to the corresponding part (referred to herein as the "pairing connector") of the multi-port connector in an AM machine or any other powder handling machine (collectively referred to herein as a "powder handling station"), the corresponding powder handling station can read the sensor signal (first sensor signal) of the first sensor.

[0020] Similarly, the collection of sensors N The second sensor can be connected to the second port of the multi-port connector via a second measuring line. More specifically, the first end of the second measuring line can be connected to the second sensor, and the second end of the second measuring line can be connected to the second port of the multi-port connector.

[0021] To avoid uncertainty, a pressure sensor for measuring pressure in a volume (also called a space) defined by a container or conduit has at least one fluid opening in fluid communication with and / or at least partially located within the volume. In this sense, a pressure sensor can be configured to measure pressure in a volume. For example, a container pressure sensor for measuring pressure in a container volume is therefore preferably configured to measure pressure in the container volume. In another example, assuming the powder inlet valve is closed, and any valve has a valve member that can move between an open and closed position to open or close the valve, a pressure sensor for measuring pressure upstream of the powder inlet valve is preferably configured to measure pressure in a volume defined downstream of the powder inlet valve member. A pressure sensor for measuring pressure downstream of a powder outlet valve is preferably configured to measure pressure in a volume defined upstream of the powder outlet valve member (when the powder outlet valve is closed). A differential pressure sensor is preferably configured to measure the pressure difference between two volumes. For example, assuming the powder outlet valve is closed, a differential pressure sensor used to measure the pressure difference between the container volume and the downstream space of the powder outlet valve can be in fluid communication with the container volume and the volume of the space defined in the upstream direction by the valve components of the powder outlet valve.

[0022] In summary, powder storage containers may include n A collection of sensorsN .At least n A collection of sensors N In m A subset of sensors M ( m≤n Preferably, n A collection of sensors N Each sensor in the system is connected to a separate contact of a multi-port connector via a separate measuring line. This improves the operational safety of the powder reservoir.

[0023] The port numbering, used only to avoid ambiguity, does not necessarily follow any convention or standard for port numbering in multi-port connectors. The port numbering used herein is merely a linguistic measure to distinguish different ports. Wires being connected, as generally understood, means establishing electrical contact between corresponding contacts. Similarly, if fluid flow or powder flow can be established separately via a connection, then fluid lines or powder lines are connected. For example, a sensor's "signal output" contact can be electrically connected (electrical contact) to the first end of the corresponding measuring line. The second end of the measuring line can be electrically connected to the terminal of the corresponding port. The measuring line can therefore be a conductive cable.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the powder reservoir may further include a first actuator for driving a first mechanical function of the powder reservoir. For example, the first actuator may drive a valve component, a mixer, etc. Examples of such actuators will be provided further below.

[0025] In a particularly preferred example, the powder reservoir may further include a second actuator for driving a second mechanical function of the powder reservoir. In the example, the second actuator may drive another valve component, another mixer, etc. In other words, controlling the first and / or second actuator enables mechanical devices, such as powder inlet valves and / or powder outlet valves, to operate the powder reservoir. For the sake of brevity, we assume a single actuator drives a single mechanical device. However, this should include a single actuator driving multiple mechanical devices, multiple actuators jointly driving a single mechanical device, or multiple actuators driving any number of mechanical devices.

[0026] For example, a powder reservoir may include at least a powder inlet valve having a powder inlet valve inlet and a powder inlet valve outlet, wherein the powder inlet valve outlet is connected to the powder inlet of the container. As already explained, an actuator may be provided to move the valve member of the powder inlet valve from an open position to a closed position and / or from a closed position to an open position. Typically, such valve actuators are electromagnetic actuators, but the invention is not limited thereto. Other examples are pneumatic actuators.

[0027] Additionally, or alternatively, the powder reservoir may also include a powder outlet valve having a powder outlet valve inlet and a powder outlet valve outlet. The powder outlet valve inlet is preferably connected to the powder outlet of the container. In the context of powder transfer, those skilled in the art understand "connection" as generally understood, meaning that powder can flow from the powder outlet of the container to the powder outlet valve inlet, and when the valve is open, it flows to the powder outlet valve outlet. When the valve is closed, of course, the powder flow is interrupted.

[0028] In general, the powder reservoir may include a first actuator control line having a first end and a second end, wherein a first actuator is connected to the first end of the first actuator control line. A second actuator control line having a first end and a second end may be connected to a second actuator. More generally, the powder reservoir may include... l A collection of actuators L Each actuator is configured to drive a mechanical function. Preferably, l A collection of actuators L Each actuator in the circuit is connected to the first end of a corresponding control line. Therefore, it is possible to have... l A set C of control lines, where each control line connects to a different actuator. In other words, the first... i The actuator can be connected to the first i The first end of the control line ( ).

[0029] The powder reservoir may include mechanical means for driving the powder reservoir. l A collection of actuators L ,in, l ∈ N {0, 1}, and among them, at least l A collection of actuators L In k A subset of actuators K Each actuator in, i.e. k ≤l, k ∈{1, 2, 3, 4,…, n max Each of these components is connected to a separate contact of the multi-port connector via a separate actuator control line.

[0030] For example, a powder inlet valve with a powder inlet flow path can be attached to the powder inlet of a container, the powder inlet valve having a powder inlet valve inlet and a powder inlet valve outlet. The inlet valve member of the powder inlet valve can be movably supported relative to the valve seat of the powder inlet valve and can be configured to move between a closed position and an open position, wherein when the inlet valve member is in its closed position, the powder inlet valve is closed by the inlet valve member, and when the inlet valve member is in its open position, the powder inlet valve is open. The inlet valve member can be coupled to... l A collection of actuators L At least one actuator in, preferably coupled to k A subset of actuators K In other words, l A collection of actuators L At least one actuator in the device can be configured to move the inlet valve component of the powder inlet valve between a closed position and an open position.

[0031] For example, a powder outlet valve with a powder outlet flow path can be attached to the powder outlet of a container. This powder outlet valve has a powder outlet valve inlet and a powder outlet valve outlet. The outlet valve member of the powder outlet valve can be movably supported relative to the valve seat of the powder outlet valve and can be configured to move between a closed position and an open position, wherein when the outlet valve member is in its closed position, the powder outlet valve is closed by the outlet valve member, and when the outlet valve member is in its open position, the powder outlet valve is open. The outlet valve member can be coupled to... l A collection of actuators L At least one actuator in, preferably coupled to k A subset of actuators K In other words, l A collection of actuators L At least one actuator in the device can be configured to move the outlet valve component of the powder inlet valve between a closed position and an open position.

[0032] In the example, the funnel can be connected to the powder inlet and / or powder outlet of the container. In the example, the funnel can be connected to the powder inlet of the container, wherein an optional powder inlet valve can be located between the funnel and the container volume. Similarly, the funnel can be connected to the powder outlet of the container, wherein a powder outlet valve can be located between the funnel and the container volume. Therefore, if the corresponding valve is open, a fluid connection is established between the container volume and the funnel, and if the corresponding valve is closed, this fluid connection is interrupted. However, the corresponding connection is generally considered herein to provide fluid communication, but this fluid communication can be interrupted if the corresponding valve is closed.

[0033] Each of the optional funnels allows for easy refilling of the container via a corresponding opening. In a preferred example, the funnel is removably connected to the powder inlet and / or powder outlet of the container. For the sake of avoidance of misunderstanding, a funnel is generally understood as a conduit with an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet end is significantly larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet end. "Significantly larger" means that the free diameter of the inlet opening is more than twice the thickness of the conduit wall. In the preferred example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet opening... Larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet opening of times, that is ,in, .

[0034] Preferably, the powder reservoir includes a container support structure. The container support structure can be, for example, a frame that supports and preferably protects the powder container. For example, a transport device, such as rollers or wheels, can be attached to the container support structure.

[0035] In a preferred example, the container support structure includes a rotary bearing that rotatably supports the container. Such rotation allows the container to be in an inverted orientation, a so-called "reverse" orientation, which converts the powder inlet into a powder outlet (and / or vice versa), and breaks up clumps of adhering powder within the container. Therefore, the rotary bearing enables the use of the powder inlet as a powder outlet, and vice versa, meaning a single powder opening is sufficient, thus reducing potential leaks and the number of expensive valves required. For the sake of linguistic consistency, we will also refer to this bidirectionally usable powder opening of the container as a "powder inlet."

[0036] In the first "normal" orientation, the powder inlet can be used to pour powder into the container volume (e.g., via an optional funnel). In the inverted "reverse" orientation, the same powder inlet can be used as a powder outlet. Therefore, a single powder inlet may be sufficient. The rotary bearing preferably has a rotation axis that is at least substantially horizontally oriented. "Almost horizontal" means that horizontal is preferred, but any deviation is acceptable as long as the rotation allows the powder in the container to be released via the powder inlet when the container rotates into the inverted orientation. As is generally the case, "horizontal orientation" means that the rotation axis is at least substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction if the container support structure is oriented as expected during normal operation. At least substantially perpendicular should indicate that orthogonality is preferred, but deviations within a certain angle are acceptable. α h Acceptable. α h The example values ​​are 30°, 20°, 10°, 5°, 2.5°, and 1°, that is... α h∈{30°, 20°, 10°, 5°, 2.5°, 1°, 0°}. Acceptable deviation. α h In practice, it depends on the shape of the container. As long as the container is in its second orientation, at least substantially all the powder flows out from the powder inlet, and the corresponding deviation... α h It is acceptable, even if it is greater than one of the example values ​​mentioned above.

[0037] In a preferred example, the funnel is supported by a container support structure, and the funnel includes a connector that connects the lower opening of the funnel to the powder inlet when the container is in its first orientation (so-called "normal" orientation), and that does not connect the lower opening of the funnel to the powder inlet when the container is rotated out of the first orientation.

[0038] In a preferred example, the container support structure may include a locking mechanism configured to releasably prevent rotation of the container relative to the container support structure. The locking mechanism thus enables prevention of accidental rotation of the container, for example, in a first (“normal” orientation and / or a second (“inverted” or “reversed” orientation). The locking mechanism can prevent rotation by a releasable form-fit locking between the container and the container support structure and / or by a releasable clamping mechanism. Additionally or alternatively, the powder reservoir may include an actuator for rotating the container relative to the container support structure. The actuator preferably includes a self-locking drive, which may also be referred to as a self-locking drive. An example of such a drive is a self-locking worm gear drive (see [link to documentation]). Introduction to Worm Gearing James K. Simonelli; Gear Technology, Vol. 2, 1993, pp. 34-40.

[0039] In a preferred example, the container has a grid or at least grid bars that extend within the container volume. Such a grid or grid bars help break up potential powder agglomerates within the container when it is rotated. This enhances the continuous and complete removal of powder from the container.

[0040] In another example, the powder reservoir may include a container support structure that is rotatably supported. For example, a support frame may rotatably support the container support structure. The container support structure may have at least a bottom and preferably at least one side support, such as a sidewall attached to the bottom of the support structure and / or at least one column. The powder container may be removably placed at the bottom of the container support structure. In other words, the bottom of the container support structure may be configured to receive the bottom of the powder container and therefore preferably also support the powder container, such as a powder bucket. Such a powder container can be standardized, i.e., the powder bucket may be a bucket according to some industry standard. The side support may be configured to support the container, for example, during rotation of the container support structure, to prevent the container from tilting relative to the bottom of the support structure. Therefore, within the scope of this application, powder reservoirs that have not yet had a powder container installed or whose powder container has been removed are included. Such powder reservoirs can be considered precursors to powder reservoirs.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the container support structure may further include a powder removal funnel. For example, the powder removal funnel (also referred to herein as the removal funnel) may be movably attached to another part of the rotatable container support structure, such as a side support portion of the rotatable container support structure. The inlet end of the powder removal funnel preferably faces the bottom of the support structure. An example of movable attachment could be a hinge that allows the powder removal funnel to pivot relative to the side support portion. Another example could be a linear bearing that allows the powder removal funnel to translate relative to the side support portion. Two examples of movably supporting the powder removal funnel may also be used in combination. In any case, the powder removal funnel may have at least a first position and / or a first orientation in which, with the bottom of the support structure at its lowest position, the powder removal funnel is located directly above the bottom of the support structure. Preferably, it may also have a second position and / or a second orientation in which the powder outlet funnel is not directly above the bottom of the support structure (assuming the bottom is still at its lowest position), thus freeing up a path for moving the powder container onto the bottom of the support structure. The movable attachment allows the powder outlet funnel to be moved at least between a first position and / or a first orientation and a second position and / or a second orientation. To avoid uncertainty, it should be noted that "directly above" in this context does not refer to the distance between the powder removal funnel and the bottom of the support structure, but rather that the projection of the powder removal funnel onto the bottom of the support structure, which is configured to receive the powder container, would provide an image of the powder removal funnel in a direction perpendicular to the surface provided by the bottom of the support structure. For a vivid example: it can be assumed that the bottom of the support structure is horizontally oriented and at its lowest position; then "directly above" means that a vertically downward projection would project the removal funnel onto the bottom of the support structure (assuming no other surface between the removal funnel and the bottom of the support structure).

[0042] In operation, the support structure can initially be oriented such that the bottom of the support structure, i.e., the base of the support structure, is in its lowest position. The powder removal funnel is preferably moved into a position where the path from the powder container to the bottom of the support structure is released, i.e., the path is not obstructed by the powder removal funnel. For example, the powder removal funnel can be in its second position and / or second orientation. Next, the powder container, such as a standardized powder bucket, can be moved onto the bottom of the support structure. The top cover of the container can be removed before or after the container is moved to the bottom of the container support structure, thereby opening the top opening of the container. Therefore, the top opening of the container is preferably open and preferably oriented upwards (while the bottom of the support structure is still in its lowest position).

[0043] Subsequently, by moving the powder removal funnel into its first position and / or first orientation, the powder removal funnel can be attached to the top opening of the container through its inlet end. Preferably, the powder removal funnel has a gasket on its inlet side, which provides a tight seal with at least the powder in the container. Thus, the powder removal funnel and the container volume are in fluid communication through the container opening, but with the powder removal funnel in its first position and / or first orientation, powder will not be accidentally released through the gap between the powder removal funnel and the powder container.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the movable attachment of the powder removal funnel is prevented at least in a first position and / or a first orientation, thereby fixing the powder container in its position and orientation relative to the rotatably supported support structure. In other words, with the powder removal funnel in its first position and / or first orientation, the powder removal funnel can clamp the container against the bottom of the support structure.

[0045] Thus, by rotating the support structure, the powder container, which is held in place relative to the support structure, can be inverted. The top opening of the powder container now points downwards, and the powder can be poured downwards into the inlet opening of the powder removal funnel. The powder can then be removed via the outlet of the powder removal funnel and can be supplied to the powder discharge point via an optional powder conduit.

[0046] Therefore, if the outlet end of the powder outlet funnel is not yet connected, it is preferable to connect the outlet end of the powder outlet funnel to a powder removal conduit, which is used to transport the powder to a powder discharge point. Examples of powder discharge points may be additive manufacturing machines and / or powder recycling equipment and / or powder filling stations, etc.

[0047] Preferably, the funnel outlet valve can be located at the powder outlet end of the powder outlet funnel. This allows for connection of the powder discharge point after the rotational support structure. When the powder outlet valve is open, powder can flow out of the powder outlet end, for example, into an optional powder removal conduit. When the powder outlet valve is closed, there is no fluid communication between the removal funnel and the environment, even if the removal conduit is not connected. Therefore, the support structure can be rotated as needed without attaching a restraining powder removal conduit to the support structure.

[0048] To remove the powder container from the powder reservoir, the support structure can be rotated again, for example, until the bottom is once again in its lowest position. The powder removal funnel can be moved into its second position and / or second orientation, thereby releasing the powder container and freeing the path used to remove the powder container from the support structure. Once removed, another (or the same) powder container can be placed back on the bottom of the support structure.

[0049] It is important to note that we have assumed above that the bottom of the support structure must be in its lowest position for inserting or removing the powder container, and that in this lowest position the bottom is at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. However, these features are not mandatory. It may even be advantageous for the bottom not to be parallel to the horizontal plane and / or not in its lowest position during insertion or removal of the powder container. In this case, the powder container can slide past the side supports of the support structure as it is moved in and / or out of the support structure. This can even be necessary, for example, in cases where the ceiling of the room is too low to vertically lift the powder container into and / or out of the container support structure. Above, the term "lowest position" is used only to make the description more vivid and can be replaced wherever it appears by "powder container removal position," in which the bottom of the support structure is preferably below the powder removal funnel, and in the inverted position, the outlet end of the powder removal funnel is preferably below the bottom of the support structure. However, it should be noted that the lowest position of the bottom of the support structure is a preferred example of the powder container removal position.

[0050] Furthermore, we assume that in the second position and / or second orientation, the powder removal funnel is not located directly above the bottom of the support structure. This is not necessary either. All that is required is that a path for inserting and / or removing the powder container is created when the powder removal funnel is moved from its first position and / or first positioning to its second position and / or second positioning.

[0051] Preferably, the powder reservoir may have an inert gas inlet port. The powder reservoir may also have a pressure reducing valve having a high-pressure inlet and a low-pressure outlet, and the container may include an inert gas inlet opening. The inert gas inlet port is preferably in fluid communication with the high-pressure inlet of the pressure reducing valve, and the low-pressure outlet of the pressure reducing valve is preferably in fluid communication with the inert gas opening. Therefore, the pressure supplied to the container via the inert gas inlet connector (inert gas inlet port) is reduced to a predetermined pressure near the container. Thus, the length of the pipeline from the pressure reducing valve to the inert gas opening of the container can be short and can have a small diameter. This helps reduce costs. Furthermore, the pressure supplied to the container of a given powder reservoir does not change. This design of the powder reservoir essentially eliminates the possibility of the container being subjected to pressures exceeding a specified limit, which could lead to container explosion and / or powder release, which is crucial because submicron powder used in AM machines can enter the human lungs.

[0052] Preferably, the inert gas control valve can be located in a gas line that provides fluid communication between the inert gas port and the inert gas inlet of the container. For example, the high-pressure input of a pressure reducing valve can be connected to the outlet of the inert gas control valve, and the inlet of the inert gas control valve can be in fluid communication with the inert gas inlet port (via a corresponding conduit). Alternatively, the inert gas inlet port can be connected to the inlet of a pressure reducing valve, and the outlet of the pressure reducing valve can be connected to the inlet of the inert gas control valve. The outlet of the inert gas control valve is in fluid communication with the inert gas inlet of the container. Both options further enhance operational safety.

[0053] Particularly preferred is the case where the inert gas control valve has an inert gas control valve actuator, wherein the inert gas control valve actuator is l A collection of actuators L In k A subset of actuators K This allows for the prevention of unexpected pressure rises or falls in the container by means of the powder storage handling station, even if the corresponding port of the mating connector of the powder storage handling station (i.e., the inert gas valve actuator control port) is simply omitted or not connected to the controller of the storage handling station.

[0054] Preferably, the powder reservoir includes a gas removal port. The gas removal port is preferably in fluid communication with the container volume via a gas removal control valve. More precisely, the container may include a gas removal outlet, and the gas removal outlet may be connected to the inlet opening of the gas removal control valve via a first portion of a gas removal line. The outlet of the gas removal control valve may be connected to the gas removal port via a second portion of the gas removal line. In other words, the gas removal port can be configured to remove gas from the container and can be closed and opened by opening the gas removal control valve. The gas removal control valve may have a gas removal control valve component coupled to... A collection of actuators L In k A subset of actuators KThe controller in the powder storage unit prevents accidental operation of the gas removal control valve in the powder storage unit, in cases where the corresponding port of the mating connector in the powder storage unit is simply not connected to the corresponding controller or is omitted entirely. The gas removal port can be used, for example, by connecting a vacuum pump or any other low-pressure source to the gas removal port and opening the gas removal control valve to reduce the gas pressure in the container. Gases harmful to powder and / or AM processes, such as water vapor (moisture) and / or oxygen, can be removed from the container via the gas removal port. The gas removal control valve can also be opened when the container is filled with inert gas via the inert gas inlet, allowing gas to be forced out (or drawn out) from the container via the gas removal port.

[0055] In a preferred example, the powder reservoir includes a pressure sensor configured to determine the gas pressure upstream and / or downstream of the gas removal control valve. Additionally, or alternatively, the powder reservoir may include a differential pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure difference between a first and a second section of the gas removal line. The pressure sensor and / or differential pressure sensor are preferably... n A collection of sensors N subset of M Members.

[0056] Preferably, the gas removal port connection sensor is connected to the first end of the gas removal port connection sensor line. The second end of the gas removal port connection sensor line can be connected to a port of a multi-port connector. In other words, the gas removal port connection sensor is also preferably... n A collection of sensors N subsets of M Members.

[0057] In a preferred example, the powder reservoir may include a support frame, which can be understood as a preferred example of a container support structure. The container support structure may have mounting portions for attachment to a crane and / or receiving portions for receiving forklift tips (fork teeth or tines). Preferably, the container is located inside the container support structure and is therefore at least partially protected from mechanical damage, such as due to impact, by the frame structure. A multi-port connector may be attached to the container support structure and / or the container, and preferably does not extend beyond the contour of the container support structure. Thus, the connector is also protected by the container support structure. The ports of the multi-port connector preferably face outwards, thereby facilitating connection of the multi-port connector to the mating connector of the powder handling station.

[0058] The powder reservoir may preferably include at least one locking shaft. The locking shaft may be rotatably supported relative to the container. This does not mean that the corresponding bearing is directly mounted to the container, although the corresponding bearing may be directly mounted to the container, but the rotation of the locking shaft is relative to the container's coordinate system. In a preferred example, the bearing supporting the locking shaft is mounted to (optionally) a container support structure, for example, to the bottom portion of the container support structure. The locking shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. In this document, the proximal end is closer to the container than the distal end. In a preferred example, the distal end faces at least substantially the same direction as the bottom of the container and / or the sidewall of the container (within an angle ± α Inside, and α (∈{30°, 20°, 10°, 5°, 2.5°, 1°, 0°}). The locking member can be torque-transmittedly coupled to the distal end of the locking shaft. Additionally, the connecting member is preferably coupled to the locking shaft to transmit axial force. Preferably, the locking shaft is driven by a locking shaft actuator. The locking shaft enables the powder container and the powder handling station to interlock. This increases the operational safety of the powder reservoir because it can easily prevent the powder reservoir from falling off the powder reservoir support in the event of an earthquake and / or impact, for example, due to forklifts, etc. In a preferred example, the locking member has broken rotational symmetry relative to the axis of rotation of the locking shaft. This broken symmetry allows the locking member to be inserted into the locking member opening when the powder reservoir is positioned on and / or within the powder reservoir support, and allows for form-fit locking between the locking member and the structure defining the locking member opening by rotating the locking shaft. In another example, the locking member can be a threaded component that can be engaged with a mating threaded component of the powder reservoir support by rotating the locking shaft. In both examples, axial movement of the locking shaft and therefore the powder reservoir away from the powder reservoir support is prevented by form-fit locking. The locking shaft actuator is preferably... l A collection of sensors L subsets of K Members.

[0059] The aforementioned features collectively contribute to improving the operational safety of powder storage devices. For example, accidental powder releases caused by erroneous valve openings due to misreading of sensor readings at a powder processing station can be avoided, as only sensors intended to be read in the respective powder processing station can be read by that station. Similarly, actuator control ports of mating multi-port connectors that are not required in a particular powder processing station can be omitted or left unconnected. For example, in gas pressure regulating stations and / or gas mixture regulating stations, there is no need to open or close powder inlet or outlet valves. In such stations, mating ports that connect (via the corresponding pipeline) to the actuators driving the corresponding valve components are simply not connected to the controller of the powder processing station. Therefore, accidental powder releases due to software errors, etc., are essentially avoided. Similarly, in other powder processing stations, mating ports of multi-port connectors that would connect to sensors and / or actuators that do not need to perform the tasks of the respective powder processing station are preferably omitted and / or not connected to the controller of the respective powder processing station.

[0060] As is apparent, the control line is preferably a conductive cable, but is not limited thereto. For example, where the actuator is hydraulically controlled / operated (i.e., by pressurized fluid), the control line may be a hydraulic line or a pneumatic line, depending on the fluid. The purpose of the control line is to connect the respective actuator to the controller of an AM powder processing station, preferably via a port of a multi-port connector, which is synonymous with equipment for processing powder and / or a powder storage service station for powder supplied to or from a powder storage unit or stored in a powder storage unit.

[0061] A powder handling station can be any machine configured to perform AM (Advanced AM) using powder, i.e., the AM equipment itself, but it can also be a workpiece removal station for removing workpieces from a powder bed, and / or a powder recycling station, and / or a powder reservoir refill station, and / or a station for adjusting the gas composition and / or pressure in a container, to name just a few. In short, any equipment used to provide, prepare, or collect powder in an AM manufacturing environment is a powder handling station, also known as a powder handling machine or powder handling equipment.

[0062] The terms "connected" or "connected" are used above to indicate that two components are joined together to provide the function implied within the components. For example, in the case of two conduits connected, the corresponding connection provides fluid communication, meaning that fluid or powder can flow from the first conduit to the other (unless the flow is blocked by a closed valve). Similarly, the connection of two electrical contacts allows the flow of current between the two contacts. A waveguide connection provides the ability to propagate electromagnetic waves from a first waveguide to another connected waveguide, and so on. Drives can be connected, such as input and output shafts. The term "line" above is used as a superordinate term encompassing the terms cable, conduit, and waveguide, and can be replaced by "cable and / or conduit and / or waveguide." All three examples enable the transmission of power and / or information from one end of the line to the other end.

[0063] The term "port" is used herein as a superordinate term for the electrical terminals, fluid terminals (fluid ports), and / or waveguide ports of a connector. Ports may, but are not necessarily, integrated into the corresponding connector. A multi-port connector has at least two ports, which may be of different types. However, the at least two ports do not necessarily have to be of different types. A multi-port connector may have a first number of electrical terminals (electrical ports), a second number of fluid ports, and a third number of waveguide ports, but not all of these ports are necessarily connected to the corresponding wires. Attached Figure Description

[0064] In the following description, the invention will be illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, without limiting the overall inventive concept.

[0065] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the powder storage device is shown.

[0066] Figure 2 Details of a partially installed powder reservoir are shown.

[0067] Figure 3 Another detail was shown.

[0068] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The cross-section shown is a portion of the powder reservoir.

[0069] Figure 5 Another detail of the partially installed powder reservoir is shown.

[0070] Figure 6 This is an example connection diagram, and

[0071] Figure 7 The bottom portion of the frame is shown, with the bottom side of the bottom portion facing upwards.

[0072] Figure 8A simplified example of a powder reservoir with a rotatable support structure is shown.

[0073] Figure 9 shows four pictures. Figures 9.1 to 9.4 The set, which shows the use of Figure 8 The method for a powder storage device consists of four steps. Detailed Implementation

[0074] exist Figure 1 The image shows a first embodiment of a powder reservoir 1 for processing powders in the context of AM (powder bed) processes. The powder reservoir includes a container 100. The container 100 may include a top 110 and a truncated conical bottom 120, which substantially forms a funnel. In the example shown, the opening angle of the truncated conical bottom 120 is... β The opening angle is 54°, but other values ​​are different. β That's also possible. (Opening angle) β The preferred range is [48°; 62°], that is... β ∈[48°; 62°]. Sidewall 130 connects the top 110 and bottom 120 of the container.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the powder reservoir 1 may also include a frame 200, which is an example of a container support structure 200. In this example, the frame has four vertical columns 230, but other numbers of columns are also possible. The columns are connected to their respective adjacent columns by crossbeams 235. The lower portions of the columns may be attached to an optional bottom portion 800, which will be referenced in the figure. Figure 7 Describe the optional bottom section in more detail.

[0076] The powder reservoir 1 may have multiple interfaces for interacting with a powder handling station in the AM process. Some of these optional features are a pressure compensation port 420 and a gas removal port 430. The powder reservoir may also include a multi-port connector 500. The multi-port connector 500 may be mounted inside the frame 200, i.e., as shown, it does not extend beyond the frame 200, but the multi-port connector 500 faces outward with its connection ports for connection by a mating connector of the powder handling station.

[0077] Figure 2 Details of the powder reservoir 1 are shown. As shown, the container 100 may feature an inert gas inlet 470, which is preferably located at the top 110 of the container 100. The container 100 may also feature a pressure sensor 440 for measuring the pressure inside the container 100, and / or a safety valve 450, and / or a spare socket 460.

[0078] The powder reservoir 1 may also include a powder inlet port 480. The powder inlet port 480 may be in fluid communication with the inlet of a powder inlet valve 485. The outlet of the powder inlet valve is in fluid communication with the powder inlet 180 of the container 100, and therefore with the volume enclosed by the container 100. The powder inlet valve 485 can be opened and closed by correspondingly controlling a powder inlet valve actuator 488.

[0079] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a grille 489 may be provided upstream of the powder inlet valve 485 to protect personnel operating the powder storage device from injury caused by the movement of the valve component 486 of the powder inlet valve.

[0080] Figure 5 This is a detailed view of the lower portion of the powder reservoir. For simplicity, some components, such as the optional frame 200, are omitted. A portion of the container 100 is depicted, namely the truncated conical bottom 120. At the lower end of the truncated conical bottom 120 is the powder outlet 190. The powder outlet 190 of the container can be attached to the inlet of a powder outlet valve 495, or the powder outlet 190 of the container can be considered as the powder inlet of the powder outlet valve 495. The outlet of the powder outlet valve 495 can be provided by or attached to a powder outlet port 490. The powder outlet valve 495 may include a valve member actuated by a powder outlet valve actuator 498.

[0081] For example Figure 5 As shown, the container-facing side of the inert gas inlet port can be connected to the first end of the pressure compensation valve 425. The other end of the pressure compensation valve 425 can be connected to the pressure compensation conduit 421 as shown, which is in fluid communication with the pressure compensation opening 141 of the container 100 (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0082] Gas removal opening 142 located at the top 110 of container 100 (see...) Figure 2 The gas removal valve 435 can be connected to its inlet side via a gas removal conduit. The outlet side of the gas removal valve 435 can be either a gas removal port 430 or in fluid communication with a gas removal port 430 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 5 The valve component of the gas removal valve 435 can be driven by the gas removal valve actuator 438. Figure 5 ).

[0083] like Figure 5 As shown, the container support mounting portion 105 can be attached to the container 100. At least one of the container support mounting portions 105 is preferably attached to the container support structure 200 via a strain gauge 106 (see [reference]). Figure 1The strain gauge can be replaced by any other load sensor or force sensor 106 capable of determining the gravity of the container supported by the container support structure 200. In this sense, the term "strain gauge" is considered representative of any force measurement sensor. The force measurement sensor 106 is capable of determining the amount of powder in the container (because the empty mass of the container 100 is known or at least can be determined), and is capable of measuring the acceleration of the container 100, which can cause compaction of the powder in the container 100.

[0084] A first portion of the inert gas conduit 412 connects the inert gas inlet 470 to the outlet of the inert gas inlet valve 418. In the example shown, the inert gas inlet valve 418 is a bistable solenoid valve (i.e., the valve actuator is an electromagnetic actuator), but other valves may also be used. The inlet of the inert gas inlet valve 418 can be connected via another portion of the inert gas conduit 412 to the outlet of an optional pressure reducing valve 419. The inlet of the pressure reducing valve 419 is preferably connected to the inert gas inlet port 410 of the powder reservoir 1.

[0085] At the lowest one-tenth of the 120 at the bottom of the cone (more generally, the lowest i One-third of the place, among which i≥5 ,For example i =10, 12, 15, 20, 25…; i There is no theoretical maximum value, but it can generally be assumed that... i (Not greater than 100) Preferably, it is a powder sensor 620, which is configured to determine the minimum value of the conical bottom 120. The sensor can be a grating sensor, a capacitive sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, etc. If the powder sensor 620 indicates that no powder remains at the height of the powder sensor, the amount of powder remaining in the container can be accurately estimated, and appropriate measures can be taken (e.g., stopping the AM process, initiating reservoir exchange and / or refilling, etc.).

[0086] Figure 5 Connector 500 is also shown. Connector 500 has multiple ports. Some of these ports are electrical ports, i.e., electrical contacts that are to be electrically contacted by corresponding components in a mating connector. Other ports may also be fluid ports, such as an inert gas inlet port 410. Other fluid ports may also be connectors for actuators that operate based on fluid pressure.

[0087] Figure 6An example connection scheme for powder reservoir 1 is shown. As shown, all actuators 418, 428, 438, 488, and 498 are directly connected to the corresponding ports of connector 500 via separate actuator control lines. It is not necessary for all actuators 418, 428, 438, 488, and 498 to be directly connected, but this is preferred. It is sufficient for a subset of actuators 418, 428, 438, 488, and 498 to be directly connected to the corresponding ports of the connector. Thus, malfunctions of actuators in a powder handling station, where the corresponding actuators are never actuated, can be avoided by simply not connecting the corresponding ports in the mating connector (equivalent to simply omitting the corresponding ports in the mating connector). Of course, the actuators can share a common ground port or power port, but each actuator in this subset can be controlled by providing a signal to one or more separate ports of the connector. The powder reservoir 1 may include a reservoir controller 107, which is connected to the data link port of the connector via some data links. However, the reservoir controller 107 is not configured to control the operation of the actuators in this subset, preferably by omitting the control lines between the reservoir controller 107 and the respective actuators. In this case, the reservoir controller 107 is connected to a force sensor 106 and provides a signal representing the mass of the container to the port of the connector 500. This signal may be transmitted via a data link, or in this example, as an analog signal (i.e., a voltage representing the mass).

[0088] Figure 7 A perspective bottom view of the example bottom portion 800 is shown, with the bottom side shown facing upwards. The example bottom portion 800 may have a bottom portion support structure 820 having a forklift receiving section. Preferably, a powder outlet port protector 825 is provided between the forklift receiving sections. The powder outlet port protector 825 is a structural element that blocks the path from the side of the container support structure 200 to the powder outlet port. Therefore, in the event of improper positioning of the forklift relative to the powder reservoir 1, the powder outlet port will not be torn or otherwise damaged by the forks.

[0089] Furthermore, the powder reservoir 1 may include one or more locking shafts 850. The locking shafts 850 may be rotatably supported by a support structure of the container support structure 200, for example, by a support structure 820 of the bottom portion 800, as shown. Two locking shafts 850 are shown in this example, but any other number may be suitable (e.g., one, three, four, five…). The locking shaft 850 has a proximal end and a distal end 852. As shown, the distal end 852 may face downwards and may be torque-transmittedly coupled to the locking member 853. This coupling may also be a resilient coupling. The locking shaft actuator 858 may be coupled (the coupling may be a resilient coupling) to rotate the locking shaft (850) from an open position to a closed position, and from a closed position to an open position. In this example, the change in position is strictly speaking only a change in orientation, but translation can achieve the same purpose, as can the superposition of translation and rotation. In this example, the locking member 853 is provided by a rod forming two pins that extend radially beyond the profile of the locking shaft 850. In the open position, the locking member 853 can thus be inserted through the elongated slot of the powder storage support of the powder processing station. The locking actuator can then be controlled to move the locking shaft 850 and thus the locking member 853 into the closed position, where the locking member 853 interlocks with the material forming the slot. The locking shaft actuator 858 can be connected, preferably directly, to a separate port of the connector 500 via a locking actuator control line.

[0090] To facilitate proper positioning of the powder reservoir 200 on the powder reservoir support of the powder processing station, the container support structure 200 preferably includes a guide plate 890 at its bottom portion 800, for example, the guide plate 890 is attached to the bottom portion support structure 820. This guide plate can interact with the complementary guiding device of the powder reservoir support of the powder processing station to move the powder reservoir 1 into a predetermined position and orientation when it is lowered onto the powder reservoir support.

[0091] The powder reservoir in Figure 9 has a frame 300 with a rotatable container support structure 200, also referred to here simply as the container support structure. Accordingly, the support structure 200 is attached to the frame 300 via a rotary bearing 250. With the rollers of the frame 300 on a horizontal surface, the axis of rotation of the rotary bearing 250 is preferably at least substantially horizontal. A rotary actuator 255 with a crank handle 260 allows the container support structure 200 to rotate easily about the axis of rotation of the rotary bearing. Of course, the manually powered rotary actuator 255 can be replaced by an electrically or hydraulically powered actuator (or an actuator powered by any other energy source). The actuator can even be omitted. In this case, rotation can be performed manually, i.e., without any actuator support.

[0092] The rotatable support structure may include a bottom 220 and side supports 225. An optional powder removal funnel 150 of the support structure is movably attached to the side structure 225 and / or the bottom 220 of the support structure. Therefore, the optional powder removal funnel 150 can rotate with other components of the rotatable support structure while being movable between a first position and / or a first orientation and a second position and / or a second orientation, as in... Figures 9.1 to 9.4 The position and / or orientation of the powder removal funnel 150 will be obvious. Therefore, the change in position and / or orientation of the powder removal funnel 150 refers to its relative position and / or relative orientation relative to the bottom 220 of the other support structure (the powder removal funnel 150 itself is rotatably supported relative to the frame 300).

[0093] exist Figure 8 In the image, the optional powder removal funnel 150 is shown in its first position and first orientation. (See image) Figure 9.1 As shown, if the powder removal funnel has moved into its second position and / or second orientation, the powder container 100 can be removed from the support structure 200. The powder removal funnel 150 is movably attached to the support structure 200 at a point 125. Figure 8 It is hidden in the middle, but Figures 9.1 to 9.4 As shown in the diagram. Implicitly, the powder removal funnel 150 has a powder inlet end and a powder outlet end, the powder inlet end having a powder inlet opening and the powder outlet end having a powder outlet opening 190. As... Figure 8 As shown, an optional powder outlet valve 495 can be attached to the powder outlet opening 190. The optional powder outlet valve 495 can have a powder outlet valve actuator 498. Figure 8 Other details have been described with reference to the other accompanying drawings, and the same reference numerals have been used where appropriate.

[0094] exist Figures 9.1 to 9.4 The insertion of a new powder container 100 into a powder reservoir is shown, as follows: Figure 8 As shown, and the insertion is from Figure 9.1 The situation shown begins.

[0095] The powder container 100 may be located outside the powder reservoir, the support structure may be rotated such that the bottom 220 of the support structure is below the powder removal funnel 150, and the powder removal funnel 150 may be in a second position and / or a second orientation, in which a path is provided from the outside of the powder container 100 to the bottom 220 of the support structure (see...). Figure 9.1 Next, as Figure 9.2 As shown, the powder container 100 can be moved, for example, by a lift or crane, onto the top of the support structure bottom 220. Thus, the container bottom 120 remains and is supported by the support structure bottom 220 of the rotatable support structure 200. Furthermore, the top cover 115 of the powder container 100 can be removed while it remains in place. Subsequently, the powder removal funnel 150 can be moved into its first position and / or first orientation. In this position and / or first orientation, the wider inlet end of the powder removal funnel is sealed to the powder container, thereby providing fluid communication between the powder container volume and the powder removal funnel. Furthermore, the powder container is preferably fixed relative to the support structure bottom. This can be achieved, for example, by locking the powder removal funnel relative to the support structure bottom in its first position and / or first orientation. Alternatively, other fixing means can also be used, such as clamping claws, suction cups, etc.

[0096] like Figure 9.4 As shown, the powder support structure can now be rotated into an inverted orientation, i.e., the powder removal funnel can now be located below the bottom of the container and / or also below the bottom of the support structure. Optional powder in the powder container will thus flow into the powder removal funnel and can be removed via the powder outlet of the powder removal funnel 150. The outlet 190 of the powder removal funnel 150 and the optional powder outlet valve 495 are as follows... Figure 8 As shown, and in Figures 9.1 to 9.4 The Chinese text is omitted for simplification.

[0097] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0098] 1 Powder container

[0099] 100 Powder Containers / Containers

[0100] 105 Container Support Installation Unit

[0101] 106 Force sensors, such as strain gauges

[0102] 107 Memory Controller / Controller

[0103] 110 Top of powder container / Top of container

[0104] 115 covers

[0105] 120 Bottom of container

[0106] Attachment of 125 powder removal funnel 150 to support structure 200

[0107] 130 Side wall of powder container

[0108] 142 Pressure compensation opening

[0109] 144 Gas Removal Opening

[0110] Powder inlet of container 180

[0111] Powder outlet of container 190

[0112] 200 Container support structure, such as support frame

[0113] 220 Bottom of support structure / Bottom of support structure

[0114] 230 Vertical column

[0115] 235 crossbeam

[0116] 240 Rotary Bearing

[0117] 250 Rotary Drive

[0118] 300 Support Frame

[0119] 410 Inert gas inlet port

[0120] 411 Inert gas conduit

[0121] 418 Inert Gas Inlet Valve

[0122] 419 Pressure Regulator

[0123] 420 Pressure Compensation Port

[0124] 421 Pressure Compensation Catheter

[0125] 425 Pressure Compensation Valve

[0126] 428 Pressure Compensation Valve Actuator

[0127] 430 Gas Removal Port

[0128] 431 Gas Removal Conduit

[0129] 435 Gas Removal Valve

[0130] 438 Gas Removal Valve Actuator

[0131] 440 Container Pressure Sensor

[0132] 450 safety valve

[0133] 480 Powder Inlet Port

[0134] 482 grille

[0135] 485 Powder Inlet Valve

[0136] 486 Powder Inlet Valve Component

[0137] 488 Powder Inlet Valve Actuator

[0138] 489 Grille

[0139] 490 Powder outlet port

[0140] 495 Powder Outlet Valve

[0141] 498 Powder outlet valve actuator

[0142] 500 connector

[0143] 620 Powder Sensor

[0144] 800 bottom part

[0145] 820 Bottom Support Structure

[0146] 825 Powder Outlet Port Protector

[0147] 850 locking axis

[0148] 852 remote

[0149] 853 Locking component

[0150] 858 Locking Axis Actuator

[0151] 890 Guide Board

Claims

1. A powder storage device (1) for processing powder in an additive manufacturing process, wherein, The powder storage container (1) includes at least: - A powder container (100), the powder container (100) enclosing a container volume for storing the powder, - A container support structure (200) that supports the powder container (100). - n A collection of sensors N The n A collection of sensors N Used to determine A set of observables, in which It is an integer greater than or equal to two, that is, n ∈{2, 3, 4,…, n max }, - l A collection of actuators L The l A collection of actuators L At least one mechanical device for driving the powder reservoir (1), wherein l is a positive integer, The powder storage container (1) is characterized in that it further comprises at least: A transport device attached to the container support structure (200). A multi-port connector (500) configured to connect with a corresponding connector at a powder handling station in an additive manufacturing process, wherein the multi-port connector (500) is a plug connector or receptacle connector having multiple ports, and The n A collection of sensors N In m A subset of sensors M Each sensor in the system is connected to a separate port of the multi-port connector (500) via a separate measurement line, where 2 ≤m≤n , m , n Integer, and / or At least the l A collection of actuators L In k A subset of actuators K Each actuator is connected via a separate actuator control line to a separate contact and / or a separate port of the multi-port connector (500), wherein 2 ≤k≤l , l , k It is an integer.

2. The powder storage device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The powder storage container further includes at least: - A powder inlet valve (485) having a powder inlet valve inlet and a powder inlet valve outlet, wherein the powder inlet valve outlet is connected to the powder inlet (180) of the powder container (100), and the powder inlet valve inlet is connected to the powder inlet port (480) of the powder reservoir (1), and / or - Powder outlet valve (495), the powder outlet valve (495) having a powder outlet valve inlet and a powder outlet valve outlet, wherein the powder outlet valve inlet is connected to the powder outlet (190) of the powder container (100), and the powder outlet valve outlet is connected to the powder outlet port (490) of the powder reservoir (1).

3. The powder storage device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one funnel is in fluid communication with the powder inlet and / or powder outlet of the container.

4. The powder storage device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, With the corresponding valve in the open position, at least one funnel is in fluid communication with the container volume via the powder inlet valve and / or the powder outlet valve.

5. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The support frame (300) rotatably supports the container support structure (200) by at least one rotary bearing having a rotation axis.

6. The powder storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The powder reservoir includes a locking mechanism that releasably prevents rotation of the container support structure (200) relative to the support frame (300).

7. The powder storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, - The container support structure (200) includes a powder removal funnel (150), and - The powder removal funnel is movably attached to the container support structure (200), and - The movable attachment of the powder removal funnel (150) enables the powder removal funnel (150) to be moved relative to the container support structure (200) from a first position and / or a first orientation to a second position and / or a second orientation, and from the second position and / or the second orientation to the first position and / or the first orientation.

8. The powder storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The powder container (100) has a powder container bottom (120), and the powder container bottom is supported by the support structure bottom (220) of the rotatable container support structure (200).

9. The powder storage device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The powder removal funnel (150) has a powder inlet, and the powder inlet is in fluid communication with the volume of the powder container via an opening in the powder container.

10. The powder storage device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The powder removal funnel (150) covers the opening of the powder container.

11. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The n A collection of sensors N Include at least one of the following sensors: - A container pressure sensor (440) for measuring the pressure in the volume of the container (100). - Force sensor (106) for measuring the force exerted by the powder container (100) on the container support structure (200). - A pressure sensor used to measure the pressure upstream of the powder inlet valve (485). - A pressure sensor used to measure the pressure downstream of the powder outlet valve (495). - A differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference between the volume of the container (100) and the upstream space of the powder inlet valve (485). - A differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference between the volume of the container (100) and the downstream space of the powder outlet valve (495). - A gas concentration sensor for determining at least the partial pressure and / or concentration of the gas components in the volume of the container (100) and / or the upstream space of the powder inlet valve (485) and / or the downstream space of the powder outlet valve (495). - An upper powder level sensor, located at the upper third of the powder container (100), and used to determine whether the powder level in the powder container (100) is higher or lower than the position of the upper powder level sensor, and - A lower powder level sensor, located at the lower third of the container, and used to determine whether the powder level in the powder container (100) is higher or lower than the position of the lower powder level sensor.

12. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, - The powder reservoir (1) has an inert gas inlet connector. - The powder reservoir (1) has a pressure reducing valve (419) having a high-pressure inlet and a low-pressure outlet. - The powder container (100) has an inert gas inlet (470). Furthermore, the inert gas inlet connector is in fluid communication with the high-pressure inlet of the pressure reducing valve (419), and the low-pressure outlet of the pressure reducing valve is in fluid communication with the inert gas inlet (470).

13. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, An inert gas inlet valve (418) and / or a pressure reducing valve (419) are located in an inert gas line that provides fluid communication between the inert gas inlet port (410) of the powder reservoir (1) and the inert gas inlet (470) of the container (100).

14. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The powder reservoir includes a control valve, the control valve having a control valve actuator, and the control valve actuator is... l A collection of actuators L In k A subset of actuators K The members of the group.

15. The powder storage device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The powder reservoir (1) includes a gas removal port (430), which is in fluid communication with the container volume at least via a gas removal control valve (435), and (i) The gas removal control valve (435) has a gas removal control valve actuator (438), and the gas removal control valve actuator (438) is l A collection of actuators L In A subset of actuators Members in, and / or (ii) The powder reservoir (1) includes at least a pressure sensor configured to determine the gas pressure upstream or downstream of the gas removal control valve, and the pressure sensor configured to determine the gas pressure upstream or downstream of the gas removal control valve is n A collection of sensors N subsets of The members of the group.

16. The powder storage device (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, (i) The gas removal port connection sensor is connected to the first end of the gas removal port connection sensor line, and the second end of the gas removal port connection sensor line is connected to the port of the multi-port connector (500), and / or (ii) The powder container (100) is located inside the container support structure (200), and the multi-port connector (500) is attached to the container support structure (200), with the ports of the multi-port connector (500) facing outwards, and / or (iii) The powder reservoir (1) has a locking shaft (850) which is rotatably supported relative to the powder container (100), wherein the locking shaft (850) has a proximal end (851) and a distal end (852), and a locking member (853) is torque-transmittedly coupled to the distal end (852) of the locking shaft (850), and the locking shaft (850) is driven by a locking shaft actuator (858).

17. The powder storage device (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The locking shaft actuator (858) is a sensor assembly. L subsets of K The members of the group.

18. A powder processing station for processing powder, the powder being powder supplied to or from a powder storage unit (1) or stored in a powder storage unit (1), the powder storage unit (1) being a powder storage unit according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The powder processing station has a mating multiport connector for connecting to the multiport connector of the powder storage unit (1).

19. The powder processing station according to claim 18, characterized in that, The mating multiport connector has fewer ports than the multiport connector (500) of the powder reservoir (1), and / or not all ports of the mating multiport connector are connected to the corresponding connection lines of the device.

20. An additive manufacturing apparatus, characterized in that, The additive manufacturing apparatus includes a powder reservoir according to any one of claims 1 to 17 and / or a powder processing station according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the controller of the additive manufacturing apparatus is connected via a multi-port connector (500) to a first actuator and / or to a second actuator and / or to a set of sensors. N At least one sensor in it.

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