Three-dimensional printing apparatus, three-dimensional printing method, and compression apparatus

Abstract

In a three-dimensional printing apparatus, a printing material (F) supplied from a nozzle (64) is arranged along a printing path, and a sheet-like material layer (FL) comprising one or more layers is formed. The material layer (FL) is compressed by the heating member (81) while the stage (3) and the heating member (81) are relatively moved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a three-dimensional printing device, a three-dimensional printing method and a compression device.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese patent application No. 2022-112292 filed on July 13, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] For example, as a device for molding an object having a three-dimensional shape, a three-dimensional printing device is known (for example, refer to Patent Document 1). The three-dimensional printing device can easily mold a three-dimensional shape that is difficult to form with the prior art without requiring expensive molds, jigs, etc. In the three-dimensional printing device, the hot melt lamination method of stacking resin melted by heat little by little is used for trial production of parts in the manufacturing industry because the manufacturing cost of the device is low.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-531439 Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] The three-dimensional printing device of the current heat-melt lamination method has a mechanism for heating and softening the filaments made of thermoplastic resin and pushing the softened filaments out of the nozzle. For example, the filaments have a linear shape with a circular cross section. When such filaments are continuously arranged in a close contact manner and formed into a sheet and further stacked, gaps are generated between the filaments. Such gaps remain in the modeling body formed by the three-dimensional printing device, reducing the mechanical properties of the modeling body.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a three-dimensional printing device, a three-dimensional printing method and a compression device for the three-dimensional printing device, which are beneficial to improving the mechanical properties of a modeling body.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0011] Aspects of the present invention adopt the following structures.

[0012] In a first aspect of the present invention, a three-dimensional printing device comprises: a first mechanism that continuously supplies printing material via a nozzle; a second mechanism that has a workbench on which the printing material is stacked; a third mechanism that has a heating component; and a control unit that controls the first mechanism, the second mechanism, and the third mechanism. The control unit includes: a first mode in which the printing material supplied from the nozzle is arranged along a printing path to form a sheet-like material layer, the material layer consisting of one or more layers; and a second mode in which, after the first mode, the material layer is compressed by the heating component while the workbench and the heating component are relatively moved.

[0013] In a second aspect of the present invention, the three-dimensional printing method comprises: a first step of forming a sheet-like material layer by arranging a printing material supplied from a nozzle along a printing path on a workbench, wherein the material layer is composed of one or more layers; and a second step of compressing the material layer by the heating component while performing relative movement between the workbench and the heating component after the first step.

[0014] In a third aspect of the present invention, a three-dimensional printing device comprises: a first mechanism having a nozzle for continuously supplying a printing material; a second mechanism having a workbench for stacking the printing material; and a control unit. A compression device for a three-dimensional printing device comprises a heat compression mechanism having a heating member, the heat compression mechanism being configured to compress a sheet-like material layer formed by the printing material through the heating member.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to various aspects of the present invention, the modeling material is heated and pressed during the stacking of the modeling material. Therefore, the modeling material can be pressed in a softened state, thereby reducing the gap between the modeling materials. In addition, the bonding strength between the modeling materials can be increased. Therefore, the mechanical properties of the modeling body are improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a schematic structure of a three-dimensional printing device.

[0018] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a three-dimensional printing method.

[0019] Figure 3 It is a perspective view schematically showing the relationship between the heating roller and the modeling table.

[0020] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram showing a state where a filament layer is pressed by a heating roller.

[0021] Figure 5is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a filament layer, Figure 5 (a) indicates the unpressed state, Figure 5 (b) indicates a pressed state.

[0022] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device.

[0023] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device.

[0025] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device.

[0026] Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device.

[0027] Fig.11 It is a diagram for explaining the moving direction of the heating roller relative to the printing path.

[0028] Fig.12 It is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the three-dimensional printing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 Schematic diagram showing the schematic structure of the three-dimensional printing device 1. In one embodiment, the three-dimensional printing device 1 is a device that forms a three-dimensional shaped body by continuously discharging filaments F (modeling material, printing material) onto a modeling table (base, platform) 3. The three-dimensional printing device 1 stacks the softened filaments F on the modeling table 3. By solidifying the stacked body, a modeling body as a three-dimensional structure is formed. In the stacking process of the filaments F in the three-dimensional printing device 1, new filaments F are arranged on the previously arranged filaments F.

[0031] The filament (printing material) F as the raw material of the modeling body has a linear shape. The filament F is a continuous material extending continuously along the central axis. In one example, the filament F has the same cross-sectional shape throughout the axial direction. In another example, the filament may have a partially different cross-sectional shape. The filament F has, for example, a circular or elliptical cross-section. As the cross-sectional shape of the filament F, it is not limited to a circle (or an ellipse), and various shapes such as polygons can be applied. In one example, the filament F has: a resin portion formed into a linear (filamentary) shape, and a fiber contained in the interior of the resin portion. The resin portion is formed of thermoplastic resins such as PLA resin (Poly-Lactic Acid), ABS resin, and nylon resin. In another example, the resin portion can use super engineering plastics such as PEEK (Poly Ether Ether Ketone, polyether ether ketone) resin, PEKK (Poly Ether KetoneKetone, polyether ketone ketone) resin, and PEI (Poly Ether Imide, polyether imide). Thermoplastic resins other than the above can also be used as filaments. The fiber is, for example, carbon fiber, glass fiber, or plant fiber. Fibers other than the above may also be used as fiber elements. The filament F may include carbon nanotubes.

[0032] In one example, the following filaments can be used, that is, continuous linear (filamentous) fibers are arranged in the central part of the resin part with a circular cross-section. In another example, as a modeling material, a filament in which short fibers or non-linear fibers are dispersed in the resin part can be used. The modeling material is not limited to the above-mentioned filaments F, for example, it can be a filament composed of a resin part without fibers. The diameter (maximum width) of the filament can be about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 or 10 mm. In addition, the diameter (maximum width) of the filament can be less than 0.1 mm, or greater than or equal to 10 mm.

[0033] In one example, if Figure 1 As shown, the filament F containing the fiber is prepared in a state of being wound on a bobbin 50. The filament F is pulled out from the bobbin 50 and supplied to the three-dimensional printing device 1. In another example, a bobbin on which a linear resin portion is wound and a bobbin on which a fiber is wound are prepared separately, and the resin portion and the fiber pulled out from the respective bobbins are combined in the three-dimensional printing device 1. The storage state of the filament F is not limited to the winding type.

[0034] like Figure 1As shown, the three-dimensional printing device 1 includes: a first mechanism 100 that continuously supplies filaments (printing materials) F via a nozzle 64, a second mechanism 200 having a molding table 3 for stacking filaments F, a third mechanism (heat compression mechanism) 300 having a heating roller 81 as a heating component, and a control device (control unit, controller) 9 that controls the first mechanism 100, the second mechanism 200, and the third mechanism 300. The control device 9 has a control program, a storage unit (memory), and a processor (processor, processing circuitry, circuitry, processor, processing circuit, circuit) that executes the control program. In one example, the first mechanism 100 includes a head unit 6 and a head moving mechanism 7. In one example, the second mechanism 200 includes a frame 2, a molding table 3, a lifting device 4, and a sliding mechanism 5. In one example, the third mechanism 300 includes a pressing roller unit 8.

[0035] The control device 9 has a first mode ( Figure 2 (a) section), the first mode is a mode in which the filament (printing material) F supplied from the nozzle 64 is continuously arranged on the modeling table 3 along the printing path to form a sheet-like material layer FL. In the first mode, relative movement (printing movement, printing mode movement) between the head unit 6 (nozzle 64) and the modeling table 3 is performed. The sheet-like material layer FL includes at least two adjacent elements (for example, a plurality of line elements arranged adjacent to each other) formed at substantially different times. The sheet-like material layer FL includes a first segment formed by a first printing movement at a first moment, and a second segment formed by a second printing movement at a second moment substantially different from the first moment and adjacent to the first segment. The shape of the sheet-like material layer FL is not limited to a rectangle. The sheet-like material layer FL may include various shapes such as polygonal, linear, curved, circular, elliptical and annular. The sheet-like material layer FL may include a cutout portion, an opening portion and a folding portion. As for the control device 9, the second mode ( Figure 2 (b) part), the second mode is after the first mode, and while the relative movement between the modeling table 3 and the heating component (heating roller) 81 is performed, the material layer FL is compressed by the heating roller 81. The material layer FL of the compression object is composed of one layer (single layer) or multiple layers. Alternatively and / or additionally, the three-dimensional printing device 1 can be configured to additionally provide a compression device having a third mechanism (heat compression mechanism) 300 on the initial device. The compression device may include a mounting mechanism. In addition, in the compression device, at least a portion of the first mechanism 100 and the second mechanism 200 can be reused as a third mechanism. Alternatively, in the compression device, a portion of the third mechanism 300 can be reused as a portion of the first mechanism 100 and the second mechanism 200. It should be noted that in Figure 1In the figure, arrow Z indicates a vertical direction (up and down direction), arrow X indicates one horizontal direction, and arrow Y indicates a horizontal direction that is orthogonal to the Z direction and the X direction.

[0036] The frame 2 is a strength member that directly or indirectly supports the modeling table (workbench) 3, the lifting device 4, the sliding mechanism 5, the head unit 6, the head moving mechanism 7 and the pressing roller unit 8. The frame 2 is assembled into an overall shape such as a rectangular parallelepiped or a cube. The modeling table 3, the lifting device 4, the sliding mechanism 5, the head unit 6, the head moving mechanism 7 and the pressing roller unit 8 are accommodated inside the frame 2. It should be noted that a plurality of wall portions that close the plurality of opening surfaces of the frame 2 may be provided. At least a portion of these wall portions may have a door that can be opened and closed. Through the door, the modeling body formed inside the frame 2 can be easily taken out of the frame 2. In one example, the frame 2 includes a shell surrounding the processing chamber. The shell closes the opening surface of the frame 2. The shell may be provided with an environmental control unit (not shown) that controls the environment in the room as needed. For example, the environmental control unit may have a mechanism for heating the internal space of the frame 2. For example, by forming the modeling body in a state where the internal space of the frame 2 is heated, the thermal influence on the modeling body can be controlled, such as suppressing the warping of the modeling body.

[0037] The styling table 3 is arranged below the head unit 6. In one example, the styling table 3 has a flat plate-like component (substrate or base), and its upper surface is the discharge target surface of the filament F. In another example, the styling table 3 can have another shape. In one example, the styling table 3 can be moved in the Z direction (can be raised and lowered) by the lifting device 4. In addition, the styling table 3 can be moved in the X direction by the sliding mechanism 5. For example, the styling table 3 can be moved from a position directly below the head unit 6 to a position directly below the pressing roller unit 8. In another example, the movement of the styling table 3 can be set arbitrarily.

[0038] The modeling table 3 may have a heating device (heater). For example, by building a heater into the modeling table, the filaments F on the modeling table 3 can be heated using the heater. By heating a surface of the modeling table 3 on which the filaments F are arranged, the state of the filaments F on the modeling table 3 can be controlled (for example, to suppress curing). As the heating device of the modeling table 3, in addition to a plate heater, a surface heater, etc., various mechanisms that can control the temperature of the resin on the modeling table 3 can also be applied.

[0039] The lifting device 4 supports the modeling table 3 from below. The lifting device 4 moves the modeling table 3 in the Z direction based on the control of the control device 9. In one example, the lifting device 4 includes a cylinder device or a motor that generates power to lift the modeling table 3. Since the modeling table 3 can move freely up and down, the distance (and relative position relationship) between the nozzle 64 of the head unit 6 and the modeling table 3 can be freely adjusted.

[0040] The slide mechanism 5 supports the lifting device 4 from below. The slide mechanism 5 moves the lifting device 4 in the X direction based on the control of the control device 9. In one example, the slide mechanism 5 includes an actuator that generates power to move the lifting device 4 horizontally, a linear guide that guides the movement of the lifting device 4, and the like. By moving the lifting device 4, the modeling table 3 moves in the X direction. The slide mechanism 5 moves the modeling table 3 in the X direction via the lifting device 4.

[0041] For example, when a material layer of the filament F is formed on the modeling table 3, the slide mechanism 5 moves the modeling table 3 to a position where the material layer can be pressed by the pressing roller unit 8. When the material layer of the filament F is pressed, the slide mechanism 5 moves the modeling table 3 from below the head unit 6 to below the pressing roller unit 8.

[0042] The head unit 6 discharges the filament F toward the molding surface of the molding table 3. The head unit 6 is supported from above by the head moving mechanism 7. In addition, the head unit 6 can move in the X direction and the Y direction by the head moving mechanism 7. In one example, the head unit 6 pulls out the filament F from the bobbin 50 based on the control of the control device 9, and discharges the filament F after heating and softening the filament F.

[0043] The head unit 6 has: a pair of filament drive rollers 61, and a motor 62 that drives the filament drive roller 61. In one example, a stepper motor can be used as the motor 62. In another example, other drive devices such as a servo motor can be used as the motor 62. The motor 62 is configured to drive the filament drive roller 61 at an arbitrary speed. In one example, the head unit 6 has a cutting device (not shown) for cutting the filament F. For example, the cutting device can cut both the resin element and the fiber element in the filament F. At a specified time when the layer of the filament F is changed, the head unit 6 cuts the filament F through the cutting device. In another example, the head unit 6 may have other mechanisms for splitting the filament F.

[0044] In one example, the filament drive roller 61 is a tire-shaped roller, and the outer peripheral surface of the roller is formed with a filament holding groove extending in a direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction. A pair of filament drive rollers 61 are arranged at a position capable of clamping the filament F. The rotation speed of each filament drive roller 61 is controlled by the control device 9 according to the amount of the filament F discharged from the head unit 6.

[0045] The head unit 6 includes: a filament heating device 63 for heating the filament F, and a nozzle 64 for discharging the filament F. The filament heating device 63 is arranged below the filament driving roller 61. In one example, the filament heating device 63 is arranged to cover the periphery of the nozzle 64. The filament heating device 63 heats the filament F. The filament F is softened by being heated by the filament heating device 63. The filament heating device 63 can use, for example, a cartridge heater or an aluminum foil heater. As a heating method for the filament heating device 63, for example, an electric heater (surface heater, plate heater, aluminum foil heater, cartridge heater), high frequency heating, induction heating, ultrasonic heating, laser heating, etc. can be cited.

[0046] The nozzle 64 is arranged below the filament drive roller 61. In one example, the nozzle 64 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The filament F sent out from the filament drive roller 61 is supplied to the inside of the nozzle 64. The nozzle 64 can be applied in various shapes. An opening (nozzle opening, outlet opening) for spraying the filament F is provided in the nozzle 64. The nozzle opening is set according to the thickness of the filament F to be sprayed. For example, the nozzle opening can be changed by replacing the nozzle 64 with another nozzle. Additionally and / or alternatively, a plurality of nozzles 64 can be provided in one head unit 6. The number of inlets (inlet ports) and the number of outlets (outlet ports) in the head unit 6 can be the same or different.

[0047] The head moving mechanism 7 is a mechanism that moves the head unit 6 in a direction intersecting the Y direction (for example, the X direction and the Y direction). In one example, the head moving mechanism 7 includes an X-axis drive device 71 and a Y-axis drive device 72. The X-axis drive device 71 moves the head unit 6 in the X direction based on the control of the control device 9. The Y-axis drive device 72 moves the head unit 6 in the Y direction based on the control of the control device 9. That is, the head moving mechanism 7 moves the head unit 6 two-dimensionally in the X direction and the Y direction based on the control of the control device 9. Various types of head moving mechanisms 7 can be applied. In one example, the head moving mechanism 7 can have a robot arm. Using the robot arm, the head unit 6 can move along a surface parallel to the modeling table 3. In another example, the head moving mechanism 7 can be configured to enable the head unit 6 to move in three dimensions, or to be able to move in six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, θX, θY, θZ). The head moving mechanism 7 may be configured to adjust the relative positional relationship between the head unit 6 and the modeling table 3 in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, and to adjust the posture of at least a part of the tilt and rotation angle.

[0048] The pressing roller unit 8 is a unit capable of heating and pressing the filament F on the molding table 3. In one example, Figure 1As shown, the pressing roller unit 8 is provided separately from the head unit 6 having the nozzle 64. The pressing roller unit 8 has a mechanism for heating the filaments F on the modeling table 3 as a heating device different from the filament heating device 63 of the head unit 6 and the heating device provided on the modeling table 3.

[0049] The pressing roller unit 8 includes a heating roller 81 (pressing portion), a bearing portion 82, and a supporting portion 83. For example, the heating roller 81 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and is supported so as to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the molding surface (upper surface) of the molding table 3. In one example, the heating roller 81 is supported so as to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the Y direction. That is, the axis of the heating roller 81 is parallel to the Y direction. In another example, the axis of the heating roller 81 can be set to be non-parallel to the Y direction. For example, the axis of the heating roller 81 can be parallel to the X direction, or the axis of the heating roller 81 can be inclined relative to the X direction and the Y direction. In another example, the shape of the roller body of the heating roller 81 can have a shape other than a cylindrical shape. In addition, the heating roller 81 can be a structure in which the roller body does not substantially rotate.

[0050] The heating roller 81 has a roller body and a heater disposed inside the roller body. In one example, the heater of the heating roller 81 generates heat based on the control of the control device 9. The heating roller 81 heats and presses the filament F (material layer). Both ends of the heating roller 81 are axially supported by the bearing portion 82. As the heating mechanism of the heating roller 81, for example, an electric heater (cartridge heater, heater roller), a high-frequency heating mechanism, an induction heating mechanism, an ultrasonic heating mechanism, and a laser heating mechanism can be cited.

[0051] In one example, the heating roller 81 rotates as the molding table 3 moves in the X direction. That is, the molding table 3 moves in the X direction while the peripheral surface of the heating roller 81 is in contact with the filament F on the molding table 3, so that the heating roller 81 rotates around the shaft core. In another example, the pressing roller unit 8 may include a driving unit that drives the heating roller 81 to rotate. In the case of including such a driving unit, for example, the rotation speed of the heating roller 81 is adjusted according to the movement speed of the molding table 3 in the X direction.

[0052] In one example, the heating roller 81 can be set to a temperature higher than the nozzle 64. For example, when the filament F is pressed (compressed), based on the control of the control device 9, the heating roller 81 (the surface of the heating roller 81) is heated to a higher temperature than the nozzle 64. The filament F discharged onto the modeling table 3 leaves the nozzle 64, so that the temperature decreases, and the viscosity increases. The heating roller 81 is cooled by contact with the cooled filament F. In the case where the temperature of the heating roller 81 is the same as the temperature of the nozzle 64, the filament F may not be heated to the same temperature as when it is discharged from the nozzle 64. In contrast, as described above, by setting the temperature of the heating roller 81 to be higher than the set temperature of the nozzle 64, the temperature of the filament F on the modeling table 3 can be increased to the same degree as when it is discharged, or to a higher temperature.

[0053] The set temperature of the heating roller 81 is not limited to being higher than the temperature of the nozzle 64, and can be set arbitrarily. The set temperature of the heating roller 81 is, for example, within a range of -150°C to +150°C relative to the set temperature of the nozzle 64, and is about -150, -140, -130, -120, -110, -100, -90, -80, -70, -60, -50, -40, -30, -20, -10, 0, +10, +20, +30, +40, +50, +60, +70, +80, +90, +100, +110, +120, +130, +140 or +150°C. The temperature of the heating roller 81 is set according to the material of the filament F, the specification of the target molding, the processing speed, etc. The set temperature of the heating roller 81 may be a value outside the above range.

[0054] Figure 3 81 is a perspective view schematically showing the relationship between the heating roller 81 and the modeling table 3, and showing a comparison between the heating roller 81 and the modeling table 3. Figure 3As shown, the length dimension of the heating roller 81 in the direction along the axis L (Y direction) is set to d1. In addition, the length dimension of the configurable area R of the filament F on the modeling table 3 in the Y direction (the length in the direction along the axis L) is set to d2. In one example, the length dimension d1 of the heating roller 81 is set to be larger than the length dimension d2 of the configurable area R of the modeling table 3. In this case, by moving the modeling table 3 in the X direction, the entire filament F on the modeling table 3 can be pressed by the heating roller 81 without moving it in the Y direction. By the relative movement between the modeling table 3 and the heating roller 81 (relative movement in the direction intersecting the Z direction, compression mode movement), the pressing process is performed on the substantially entire surface of the material layer FL. In one example, the substantial length of the heating roller 81 is set to be larger than the width of the material layer (compression target layer) FL, and the pressing process is performed on the substantially entire surface of the material layer FL by one relative movement. In another example, the substantial length of the heating roller 81 is set to be greater than the width of the material layer (compression target layer) FL, and the pressing process is performed on substantially the entire surface of the material layer FL through multiple relative movements. In yet another example, the substantial length of the heating roller 81 is set to be less than the width of the material layer (compression target layer) FL, and the pressing process is performed on substantially the entire surface of the material layer FL through multiple relative movements. In yet another example, the pressing process is performed on substantially the entire surface of the material layer (compression target layer) FL by using multiple relative movements of the heating rollers 81.

[0055] In one example, a surface treatment is applied to the circumferential surface (peripheral surface) of the heating roller 81 to impart a prescribed functionality. As functions imparted by the surface treatment, for example, liquid repellency, adhesion, demoulding properties, chemical resistance, heat resistance, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, hardness, wear resistance, lubricity and thermal conductivity can be cited. As surface treatment, for example, electroplating treatment, chemical treatment, film-forming treatment, coating treatment and surface processing treatment can be cited. For example, fine bumps and / or grooves can be formed on the circumferential surface (peripheral surface) of the main body of the heating roller 81. For example, the circumferential surface (peripheral surface) of the main body of the heating roller 81 can be coated with a resin coating (for example, a fluorine coating). The surface treatment suppresses, for example, the adhesion of the softened filament F. It should be noted that such a surface treatment can also be applied to the nozzle 64.

[0056] Back to Figure 1 The heating roller 81 is axially supported by the bearings 82. The bearings 82 are provided at each of the two end portions of the heating roller 81. The bearings 82 are supported by the frame 2 via the support portions 83.

[0057] The support portion 83 supports the heating roller 81 via the bearing portion 82. For example, the support portion 83 has a structure in which a plurality of units provided for each bearing portion 82 are separately mounted on the fixed portion (frame 2, etc.). Alternatively, the support portion 83 has a structure in which one unit provided for a plurality of bearing portions 82 is mounted on the fixed portion (frame 2, etc.). The support portion 83 may have a position adjustment mechanism for adjusting the support position of the heating roller 81. For example, the support portion 83 may be configured to be able to adjust at least one of the six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, θX, θY, and θZ) of the axis of the heating roller 81. In one example, the support portion 83 may be configured to be able to move the posture of the heating roller 81 in three dimensions, or to be able to move the posture of the heating roller 81 in six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, θX, θY, θZ). The position adjustment mechanism may be configured so that in addition to being able to adjust the relative positional relationship between the heating roller 81 and the modeling table 3 in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, it is also possible to adjust the posture of at least a part of the tilt and rotation angle. For example, each support portion 83 may be able to extend and retract in the vertical direction (Z direction). By each support portion 83 being able to extend and retract in the vertical direction, the position and / or posture (the inclination of the axis, etc.) of the heating roller 81 in the Z direction can be adjusted. The support portion 83 is able to extend and retract in the vertical direction by, for example, having a cylinder unit. For example, the inclination (for example, θX and / or θZ) of the axis of the heating roller 81 relative to the direction of relative movement between the modeling table 3 and the heating roller 81 is controlled by the position adjustment mechanism.

[0058] The control device 9 controls the lifting device 4, the slide mechanism 5, the head unit 6, the head moving mechanism 7, and the pressing roller unit 8. For example, the control device 9 controls the lifting device 4 so that the head unit 6 is lifted and lowered. In addition, the control device 9 controls the slide mechanism 5 so that the modeling table 3 moves in the X direction. In addition, the control device 9 heats the filament F by controlling the head unit 6, and discharges the filament F from the nozzle 64. In addition, the control device 9 controls the head moving mechanism 7 so that the head unit 6 moves. In addition, the control device 9 controls the pressing roller unit 8 to heat the heating roller 81.

[0059] Furthermore, when the filaments F are pressed by the heating roller 81, the control device 9 controls the slide mechanism 5 so that the modeling table 3 moves below the pressing roller unit 8. By stacking the layers of the filaments F with respect to the modeling table 3, a modeling body is formed.

[0060] like Figure 2As shown in (a), the control device 9 continuously arranges the filament F on the modeling table 3 along the printing path to form a sheet-like material layer FL. For example, the head unit 6 moves relative to the modeling table 3 in the X direction and the Y direction, and the filament F for the first layer is discharged from the head unit 6. In one example, the printing path relative to one layer has: a first extension portion (first line element), a second extension portion (second line element), and a return portion (third line element, bend, flexure, intermediate portion) between the first extension portion and the second extension portion. The first extension portion mainly corresponds to the first movement of the head unit 6 in the first direction (first relative movement, first direction printing movement). The second extension portion mainly corresponds to the second movement of the head unit 6 in the second direction opposite to the first direction (second relative movement, second direction printing movement). In one example of the element area, the first extension portion and the second extension portion are adjacent to each other. In another example of the element area, multiple first extension portions are adjacent to each other, or multiple second extension portions are adjacent to each other. The return portion corresponds to the conversion movement (return movement) of the head unit 6 between the first movement and the second movement. For example, the return portion includes a curved shape and a bent shape. When the formation of the first layer is completed, the modeling table 3 moves away from the head unit 6, and a process of forming a second layer on the first layer is performed. For example, the head unit 6 moves relative to the modeling table 3 in the X direction and the Y direction, and the filament F for the second layer is discharged from the head unit 6.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown in (b), during the lamination process of the filaments F for forming the modeling body, the control device 9 compresses the material layer FL by the heating roller 81. The control device 9 controls the pressing roller unit 8 so that the heating roller 81 compresses the filaments F (material layer FL) on the modeling table 3.

[0062] In one example, the control device 9 performs compression processing as one layer (single layer). That is, after forming the first material layer FL composed of the first layer, before forming the second layer, the first material layer FL is compressed. In addition, after forming the second material layer FL composed of the second layer, before forming the third layer, the second material layer is compressed. For example, the pressing amount (compression amount) of the filament F is set based on the distance from the heating roller 81 to the modeling surface of the modeling table 3. In one example, the pressing amount is set to 5% to 95% relative to the diameter of the filament F discharged from the head unit 6 (the thickness of one layer). For example, when the diameter of the filament F is 0.2 mm, the pressing amount is set to approximately 0.01 mm to 0.19 mm. In one example, the pressing amount is set to about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90% or 95% relative to the diameter of the filament F discharged from the head unit 6 (the thickness of one layer). In another example, the pressing amount can be set to a value other than the above values. In one example, the control device 9 controls the position adjustment mechanism of the support portion 83 of the pressing roller unit 8 and / or adjusts the position of the modeling table 3 in the Z direction to adjust the pressing amount.

[0063] In another example, the control device 9 performs compression processing on the multi-layer. That is, after forming the first material layer FL composed of the multi-layer, before forming the next layer, the first material layer FL is compressed. In addition, after forming the second material layer FL composed of the multi-layer, before forming the next layer, the second material layer FL is compressed. In one example, the pressing amount is set to 5% to 95% relative to the material layer FL composed of the multi-layer. For example, the pressing amount is set to about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90% or 95% relative to the thickness of the material layer (multi-layer) FL. In other examples, the pressing amount can be set to a value other than the above values.

[0064] Next, an example of the operation (three-dimensional printing method) of such a three-dimensional printing apparatus 1 will be described.

[0065] The shape data of the target object is input into the storage unit or the external storage unit of the control device 9. In one example, the shape data is three-dimensional data (three-dimensional model data), which is sliced ​​and converted into data consisting of stacked two-dimensional data by a control program. In addition, according to the control program, the printing stroke in the two-dimensional data of each layer is determined. Based on the determined two-dimensional data, the control program determines the travel path (printing path) of the nozzle 64. The control device 9 controls the sliding mechanism 5 to move the modeling table 3 in such a manner that the modeling table 3 is located below the head unit 6. The control device 9 controls the lifting device 4 to adjust the position of the modeling table 3 in the Z direction. For example, the control device 9 controls the lifting device 4 so that the distance from the head unit 6 to the modeling surface of the modeling table 3 becomes a distance suitable for discharging the filament F.

[0066] The control device 9 controls the head unit 6 so that the filament F is discharged from the nozzle 64. The filament F wound on the bobbin B is pulled out from the bobbin 50 by the filament driving roller 61 and sent to the bottom of the filament driving roller 61. The filament F sent to the bottom of the filament driving roller 61 is supplied to the nozzle 64. The filament F supplied to the nozzle 64 is heated and softened by the filament heating device 63. The softened filament F is discharged downward from the nozzle 64 and arranged on the modeling table 3.

[0067] The control device 9 controls the head moving mechanism 7 to move the head unit 6 after the filament F is discharged. The control device 9 moves the head unit 6 (nozzle 64) along a plane including the X direction and the Y direction via the head moving mechanism 7 based on the two-dimensional data of the object.

[0068] The molding body is formed by stacking multiple layers of filaments F in the Z direction. The control device 9 forms multiple layers in sequence. The control device 9 controls the head moving mechanism 7 to move the head unit 6 in a direction intersecting the Z direction (for example, the X direction and the Y direction). The filaments F continuously discharged from the head unit 6 are arranged on the molding table 3 to form a layer.

[0069] When one layer is formed, the control device 9 controls the head unit 6 to stop the discharge of the filament F and moves the modeling table 3 to the lower side of the pressing roller unit 8. The heating roller 81 of the pressing roller unit 8 is arranged at a portion capable of pressing the uppermost layer of the material layer FL of the filament F arranged on the modeling table 3. The control device 9 moves the modeling table 3 to the lower side of the pressing roller unit 8. The control device 9 controls the slide mechanism 5 to move the modeling table 3 in the X direction. Figure 4 The material layer FL of the filament F is pressed by the heating roller 81 .

[0070] In addition, as far as the control device 9 is concerned, when the material layer FL of the filament F is pressed by the heating roller 81, the heating roller 81 is heated. The material layer FL of the filament F is heated by the heating roller 81. For example, after being discharged from the nozzle 64, the filament F that has solidified due to the temperature reduction is heated and softened again. By pressing the filament F in a softened state, for example, the adhesion of the peripheral surface between the mid-section of adjacent filaments F is improved. The control device 9 presses the heating roller 81 on the material layer FL of the filament F so that the multiple line elements of the filament F are pressed against each other in the transverse direction. Here, the transverse direction is a direction that intersects with the Z direction and the axial direction of the filament F in a specified area (element area, segment) of a layer, and is the direction in which the adjacent multiple line elements in the filament F of a layer are arranged. It should be noted that, as needed, the adhesion between the filament F of the bottom layer and the molding table 3 can be improved by pressing the filament F of the bottom layer.

[0071] The control device 9 controls the lifting device 4 to lower the modeling table 3. For example, the modeling table 3 is lowered by the thickness of one layer. The control device 9 controls the sliding mechanism 5 to move the modeling table 3 to the bottom of the head unit 6 again. The control device 9 controls the head unit 6 and discharges a new filament F to be stacked on the filament F previously arranged on the modeling table 3. When a new layer is formed by the filament F, the control device 9 presses the layer of the filament F again using the pressing roller unit 8. The control device 9 presses the heating roller 81 on the material layer FL of the filament F, so that the multiple line elements of the filament (printing material) F are pressed against each other in the lateral direction, and the multiple line elements of the filament (printing material) F are pressed against each other in the stacking direction.

[0072] By repeating such an operation, the heated filaments F are stacked in multiple layers on the molding table 3 to form a molding body. While the filaments F are being stacked, the heating rollers 81 are used to press each layer (thermal compression).

[0073] Figure 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a layer of filament F, Figure 5 (a) indicates the unpressed state, Figure 5 (b) indicates the pressed state. Figure 5 As shown in (a), in the non-pressed state, there is a tendency for gaps K to be generated between the mid-points of the filament F (between the line elements). Such gaps K reduce the rigidity of the shaped body and become a major factor in reducing the mechanical properties of the shaped body.

[0074] On the other hand, in the pressed state, Figure 5As shown in (b), the cross-sectional shape of the line element changes due to the crushing of the filament F, and the resins of adjacent line elements are at least partially bonded to each other. As a result, the gap K between the middle parts of the filament F (between the line elements) is reduced or disappears. The reduction of the gap K is beneficial to improving the mechanical properties of the molded body, such as the rigidity of the molded body.

[0075] Generally, when the filament F includes fibers, unique phenomena such as fiber twisting are likely to occur in the printing path, especially in curved portions. Figure 2 As shown in (b), the control device 9 performs relative movement (compression mode movement) between the modeling table 3 and the heating roller 81 in a manner that the printing path and the moving direction of the heating roller 81 at least partially intersect. For example, at a curved portion of the printing path, the extension direction of the printing path intersects with the relative movement direction of the heating roller 81. In addition to the extension portion in the printing path, the filament F is also reliably thermally compressed at the return portion (curved portion). Even in the case where the filament F includes fibers, the resins of adjacent line elements in the material layer FL are reliably bonded to each other. This is conducive to improving the mechanical properties of the fiber-containing modeling body.

[0076] As described above, the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment includes the nozzle 64, the modeling table 3, the heating roller 81, and the control device 9. The nozzle 64 continuously discharges the heated filaments F. As for the modeling table 3, the filaments F discharged from the nozzle 64 are stacked in multiple layers. The heating roller 81 can heat and press the filaments F on the modeling table 3. In addition, the heating roller 81 is provided separately from the nozzle 64. The control device 9 causes the heating roller 81 to press the filaments F on the modeling table 3 while the filaments F are being stacked.

[0077] According to such a three-dimensional printing device 1, the filaments F are heated and pressed in the middle of the stacking of the filaments F. Therefore, the filaments F on the molding table 3 are pressed in a softened state, and the gaps between the middle parts of the filaments F are reduced. In addition, the adhesion between the middle parts of the filaments F is improved. Therefore, according to the three-dimensional printing device 1 of this embodiment, the mechanical characteristics of the molding body are improved.

[0078] In addition, in the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the heating roller 81 is provided separately from the nozzle 64. Such a heating roller 81 is separated from the nozzle 64 and can move relative to the modeling table 3. Therefore, the heating roller 81 does not need to move following the nozzle 64. In addition, it is not necessary to move the nozzle 64 while considering the position of the heating roller 81. Therefore, the control can be simplified.

[0079] Furthermore, in the three-dimensional printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, before the filaments F forming the next layer are discharged onto the previously formed layer, the previously formed layer is heated by the heating roller 81. Therefore, compared with the case where the previously formed layer is cooled, the adhesion between the previously formed layer and the newly discharged filaments F can be improved.

[0080] In addition, in the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the heating roller 81 is used as a pressing portion. For example, the heating roller 81 is formed in a cylindrical shape and supported so as to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the upper surface of the modeling table 3. According to the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the filament F on the modeling table 3 can be easily pressed by relatively moving the modeling table 3 and the heating roller 81.

[0081] Furthermore, in the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the length dimension d1 of the heating roller 81 along the axis direction is greater than the length dimension d2 of the configurable region R of the filament F on the modeling table 3 along the axis direction. According to the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the filament F on the modeling table 3 can be pressed without moving the heating roller 81 along the axis direction.

[0082] Furthermore, in the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, when the filament F is pressed, the heating roller 81 is heated to a temperature higher than the heating temperature of the filament F in the nozzle 64. According to the three-dimensional printing device 1 of the present embodiment, the temperature of the filament F on the modeling table 3 can be increased to the discharge temperature or higher by heating the heating roller 81 to a temperature higher than the nozzle 64. Therefore, the filament F can be pressed in a state where the filament F is fully softened, and the gaps between the mid-sections of the filament F can be more reliably reduced.

[0083] In addition, in the three-dimensional printing method of the present embodiment, the heated filaments F are stacked on the modeling table 3 to form a modeling body. In addition, in the three-dimensional printing method of the present embodiment, the heating roller 81 separated from the nozzle 64 that discharges the filaments F is heated, and the heated heating roller 81 is used to press the filaments F on the modeling table 3 during the stacking process. According to the three-dimensional printing method of the present embodiment, the filaments F are heated and pressed during the stacking process of the filaments F. Therefore, the discharged filaments F are pressed in a softened state, and the gaps between the parts of the filaments F can be reduced. Moreover, the adhesion between the parts of the filaments F can be improved. Therefore, according to the three-dimensional printing method of the present embodiment, the mechanical properties of the modeling body can be improved.

[0084] Although one embodiment of the present invention is described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is self-evident that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The various shapes and combinations of the components shown in the above embodiment are only examples, and various changes can be made based on design requirements within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

[0085] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the heating roller 81 presses the predetermined pressing amount at one time is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Figure 6 As shown, the filament F can be pressed multiple times so that a prescribed pressing amount is pressed. By pressing the filament F multiple times, the filament F can be pressed while suppressing the sudden displacement of the filament F. The number of repetitions can be set arbitrarily. In addition, in multiple pressing processes, the temperature of the heating roller 81 can be changed. In one example, the material layer FL is compressed by the heating roller 81 at a first target temperature. Thereafter, the material layer FL is compressed by the heating roller 81 at a second target temperature different from the first target temperature. Thereafter, the material layer FL is compressed by the heating roller at a third target temperature different from the first target temperature and the second target temperature. In one example, the first target temperature is higher than the second target temperature, and the second target temperature is higher than the third target temperature. In another example, the first target temperature is lower than the second target temperature, and the second target temperature is lower than the third target temperature. In yet another example, the first target temperature is higher than the second target temperature, and the second target temperature is lower than the third target temperature. The temperature change is not subject to the above restrictions and can be set arbitrarily.

[0086] In addition, for example, Figure 7 As shown, a scraper 10 may be provided to remove the filaments F adhering to the surface of the heating roller 81. By providing the scraper 10, even when the filaments F adhere to the heating roller 81, the filaments F can be removed from the surface of the heating roller 81.

[0087] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the filament F is pressed by the heating roller 81 is described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 8 As shown, the filaments F can be pressed using a heatable pressing plate 11 .

[0088] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the modeling table 3 may include the same material as the filament F. For example, the modeling table 3 may be formed of the same material as the resin portion of the filament F. As described above, by forming the modeling table 3 using the same material as the filament F, the adhesion of the filament F to the modeling table is improved. Therefore, a modeling body can be formed within a stable period. It should be noted that only the surface layer of the modeling table 3 may be formed of the same material as the filament F, rather than forming the entire modeling table 3 from the same material as the filament F. That is, at least the surface of the modeling table 3 may include the same material as the filament F. In this case, for example, after the modeling body is formed, the modeling body and the modeling table 3 are cut.

[0089] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which only the filament F is arranged on the modeling table 3 is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a support material supporting the filament F can be arranged on the modeling table 3. Such a support material can be discharged from the head unit 6. In addition, a dedicated head unit for discharging the support material can be provided separately from the head unit 6 for discharging the filament F.

[0090] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the modeling table 3 can move in the X direction and the Z direction and the head unit 6 can move in the X direction and the Y direction is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the head unit 6 can be moved in the Z direction. In addition, for example, the modeling table 3 can be moved in the Y direction. In addition, the heating roller 81 can be moved in the X direction or the Z direction.

[0091] exist Fig. 9In the modified example shown, the pressing roller unit 8 has a plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D. Relative movement (compression mode movement) between the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D and the modeling table 3 is performed. Two or more heating rollers 8 among the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are pressed against the material layer FL substantially at the same time. The height positions (Z positions) of the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are arbitrarily adjusted. In one example, the height positions (Z positions) of the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are set to be substantially the same. In another example, the heating roller 81A is set at a height position relatively far from the modeling table 3, the heating roller 81D is set at a height position relatively close to the modeling table 3, and the heating rollers 81B and 81C are set at intermediate positions therebetween. The temperatures of the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are arbitrarily adjusted. For example, the material layer FL is compressed by one heating roller 8 at a first target temperature, and the material layer FL is compressed by another heating roller at a second target temperature different from the first target temperature. In one example, the target temperatures of the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are set to be substantially the same. In another example, the target temperature of the heating roller 81A is set to be the highest, the target temperature of the heating roller 81D is set to be the lowest, and the target temperatures of the heating rollers 81B and 81C are set to be intermediate temperatures. The surface treatments for the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D are arbitrarily adjusted. In one example, the same surface treatment is applied to the plurality of heating rollers 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D. In another example, a first surface treatment is applied to one heating roller 8, and a second surface treatment different from the first surface treatment is applied to another heating roller. For example, the material layer FL is compressed by a first contact surface of a heating roller 8 having a first surface characteristic, and the material layer FL is compressed by a second contact surface of another heating roller having a second surface characteristic different from the first surface characteristic.

[0092] exist Fig.10 In the modified example shown, the pressing roller unit 8 has a plurality of heating rollers 81E and 81F, and the plurality of heating rollers 81E and 81F have mutually different outer diameters. Relative movement (compression mode movement) between the plurality of heating rollers 81E, 81F and the modeling table 3 is performed. For example, the material layer FL is compressed by a first contact surface of one heating roller 81E having a first outer diameter, and the material layer FL is compressed by a second contact surface of the heating roller 8F having a second outer diameter different from the first outer diameter.

[0093] like Fig.11 As shown, the relative moving direction of the heating roller 81 relative to the printing path (the direction of the compression path) is arbitrarily adjusted. During thermal compression, the angle between the main extension direction of the printing path of the filament (printing material) F and the relative moving direction (the direction of the compression path) is controlled. Fig.11 In the example shown in (a), the main extension direction of the printing path and the direction of the compression path are substantially the same. Fig.11 In the example shown in (b), a predetermined angle (inclination of the compression path) θ1 is set between the main extension direction of the printing path and the direction of the compression path. The inclination of the compression path can be set arbitrarily. For example, the inclination θ1 of the compression path is approximately 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89 or 90°.

[0094] exist Fig.12 In the modified example shown, the pressing roller unit 8 includes a heating roller 81, and the roller body of the heating roller 81 has a shape other than a cylindrical shape. In one example, at least a portion of the heating roller 81 has a spherical surface or a curved surface. By setting the contact area of ​​the heating roller 81 with respect to the material layer FL to be small, precise heat pressing can be performed. The control device 9 ( Figure 1 ) includes: a first mode in which the filament (printing material) F supplied from the nozzle 64 is continuously arranged on the modeling table 3 along the printing path to form a sheet-like material layer FL; and a second mode in which, after the first mode, the material layer FL is compressed along the compression path by the heating roller 81 while the relative movement between the modeling table 3 and the heating component (heating roller) 81 is performed. In one example, the compression path of the heating roller 81 is set to be at least partially along the printing path. In another example, the inclination of the compression path is set so that the compression path of the heating roller 81 is at least partially at a specified angle to the printing path. For example, the compression path of the heating roller 81 intersects with the printing path. In one example, the heating roller 81 is set separately from the nozzle 64 (head unit 6). In another example, the heating roller 81 is installed on the head unit 6. In the first mode, the formation of the material layer FL is performed using the nozzle 64, and in the second mode, the thermal compression of the material layer FL is performed using the heating roller 81.

[0095] It should be noted that the relative movement between the first component and the second component described in this specification (for example, printing mode movement, compression mode movement) may include: movement of the first component relative to the second component, movement of the second component relative to the first component and / or movement of both the first component and the second component.

[0096] Description of Reference Numerals

[0097] 1 three-dimensional printing device, 2 frame, 3 modeling table (workbench), 4 lifting device, 5 sliding mechanism, 6 head unit, 7 head moving mechanism, 8 pressing roller unit, 9 control device (control part), 10 scraper, 11 pressing plate (pressing part), 61 filament driving roller, 62 motor, 63 filament heating device, 64 nozzle, 71 X-axis driving device, 72 Y-axis driving device, 81 heating roller (pressing part), 82 bearing part, 83 support part, F filament (modeling material, printing material), 100 first mechanism, 200 second mechanism, 300 third mechanism, K gap, L axis core, R configurable area

Claims

1. A three-dimensional printing device, comprising: A first mechanism continuously supplies printing material via a nozzle; A second mechanism having a workbench for stacking the printing materials; a third mechanism having a heating component; as well as The control unit controls the first mechanism, the second mechanism and the third mechanism, including: a first mode in which the printing material supplied from the nozzle is arranged along a printing path to form a sheet-like material layer, wherein the material layer is composed of one layer or multiple layers; and a second mode in which, after the first mode, the material layer is compressed by the heating component while the relative movement between the workbench and the heating component is performed.

2. The three-dimensional printing device according to claim 1, wherein: The second mode includes pressing the heating component against the material layer so that a plurality of line elements of the printing material are pressed against each other in a transverse direction.

3. The three-dimensional printing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The material layer is composed of multiple layers. The second mode includes pressing the heating member against the material layer so that a plurality of line elements of the printing material are pressed against each other in a stacking direction.

4. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The second mode includes performing the relative movement in such a way that the printing path at least partially intersects a movement direction of the heating member.

5. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The second mode comprises controlling an angle between a main extension direction of the printing path of the printing material in the relative movement and a direction of the relative movement.

6. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second mode includes compressing the material layer by the heating member at a first target temperature and compressing the material layer by the heating member at a second target temperature different from the first target temperature.

7. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The second mode includes compressing the material layer with a first contact surface of the heating component having a first surface characteristic and compressing the material layer with a second contact surface of the heating component having a second surface characteristic different from the first surface characteristic.

8. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The third mechanism includes a cylindrical heating roller supported to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the upper surface of the table.

9. The three-dimensional printing device according to claim 8, wherein: The length dimension of the heating roller in the direction along the axis core is greater than the length dimension of the configurable area of ​​the printing material on the workbench in the direction along the axis core.

10. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: When the printing material is pressed, the third mechanism is heated to a temperature higher than a heating temperature of the printing material in the nozzle.

11. The three-dimensional printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: At least a surface of the workbench comprises the same material as the printing material.

12. A three-dimensional printing method, comprising: A first step is to form a sheet-like material layer by placing a printing material supplied from a nozzle on a workbench along a printing path, wherein the material layer is composed of one or more layers; and A second step, after the first step, compressing the material layer by the heating member while relatively moving the worktable and the heating member.

13. A compression device for a three-dimensional printing device, wherein: The three-dimensional printing device comprises: A first mechanism having a nozzle that continuously supplies printing material; A second mechanism having a workbench for stacking printing materials; and Control Department, The compression device includes a thermal compression mechanism having a heating member. The thermal compression mechanism is configured to compress a sheet-shaped material layer formed of the printing material by the heating member.

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