Automatic additive manufacturing production line and automatic additive manufacturing method

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and provides an automatic additive manufacturing production line which comprises a central control system, a powder circulating system, transfer equipment, a powder cleaning system and a plurality of additive manufacturing systems. The powder circulating system is connected with the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system through powder pipelines. The additive manufacturing system is connected with the powder cleaning system through transfer equipment; and the powder circulating system, the transfer equipment, the powder cleaning system and the additive manufacturing system are respectively in signal connection with the central control system. According to the production line, all the process parts are automatically integrated, the forming cylinders can be rapidly replaced after printing is completed, a new forming cylinder is conveyed to be in butt joint with printing equipment for next-round printing while powder of workpieces is removed, manpower is reduced, and efficiency is improved. The invention further provides an automatic additive manufacturing method, internal circulation of metal powder can be achieved, workshop dust is basically eradicated, the safety of personnel and equipment is guaranteed, the production efficiency of the whole machine is improved, the labor cost is greatly reduced, and the production efficiency of the equipment is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and in particular relates to an automated additive manufacturing production line and an automated additive manufacturing method. Background Art

[0002] Additive manufacturing technology is a new manufacturing technology based on the principle of layered manufacturing. It uses the method of accumulating materials layer by layer to directly implement digital models into physical parts. It is also called 3D printing. The powder to be formed is spread layer by layer, and then solidified and formed after adhesion, sintering or melting. It can realize the manufacturing of parts with complex shapes. In the 3D printing process, the three-dimensional model is first sliced ​​and layered, and then the powder material is spread on the printing platform in the forming cylinder. After spreading, printing is performed. After printing is completed, the printing platform is lowered by one layer, and powder is spread again. The above process is repeated until printing is completed.

[0003] The single-machine production model in the existing technology can no longer meet the needs of large-scale application services, and usually has problems such as low production efficiency, high requirements for manual operation, and safety hazards in the production process. Summary of the invention

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to overcome the problems of low production efficiency, high requirements for manual operation, and potential safety hazards in the production process in the prior art.

[0005] To this end, the present invention provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including a central control system, a powder circulation system, a transfer device, a powder cleaning system and multiple additive manufacturing systems; the powder circulation system is connected to the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system respectively through a powder pipeline; the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system are connected through the transfer device; the powder circulation system, the transfer device, the powder cleaning system and the additive manufacturing system are respectively connected to the central control system by signal.

[0006] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing production line also includes a molding cylinder preparation system for disassembling and assembling the molding cylinder and the printing substrate; the molding cylinder preparation system, the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system are connected by a transfer device.

[0007] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing production line also includes an annealing furnace; the annealing furnace is connected to the forming cylinder preparation system through a transfer device.

[0008] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing production line also includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system and the powder circulation system are connected through a transfer device.

[0009] The above-mentioned additive manufacturing system includes a forming cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station and a transfer mechanism for transferring the forming cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is provided with a picking and placing device for picking and placing the cylinder cover of the forming cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is arranged below the printing device; the transfer station is docked with the transfer device.

[0010] Specifically, the transfer mechanism includes a transfer track and a forming cylinder support seat; the forming cylinder support seat is slidably installed on the transfer track, and the transfer station and the printing station are both located within the travel of the forming cylinder support seat.

[0011] The present invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing method, comprising the following steps:

[0012] The powder circulation system delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system through a powder pipeline;

[0013] Additive manufacturing systems to print products;

[0014] After printing is completed, the transfer device receives the build cylinder containing the product and transports the empty build cylinder to the additive manufacturing system for the next round of printing;

[0015] The transfer equipment sends the forming cylinder containing the product to the powder cleaning system for powder cleaning, and transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system through the powder pipeline;

[0016] After the powder is cleaned, the transfer equipment transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

[0017] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing method also includes adjusting the operation route of the transfer equipment between the powder circulation system, the powder cleaning system and the additive manufacturing system through the central control system.

[0018] Specifically, the above-mentioned subsequent processing process includes: the transfer equipment transports the forming cylinder to the forming cylinder preparation system, separates the printing substrate carrying the product from the forming cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate in the forming cylinder; the forming cylinder is transported by the transfer equipment to the additive manufacturing system to wait for the next round of printing.

[0019] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing method also includes: when it is necessary to add powder raw materials, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer equipment, and the transfer equipment takes powder from the raw material area and adds it to the powder circulation system.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0021] The automated additive manufacturing production line provided by the present invention integrates all process parts automatically. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder can be quickly replaced. While the workpiece is being cleaned of powder, a new forming cylinder is transported to connect with the printing equipment for the next round of printing, thereby reducing manpower and improving production efficiency.

[0022] The automated additive manufacturing method provided by the present invention can realize the internal circulation of metal powder, basically eliminate dust in the workshop, and ensure the safety of personnel and workshop equipment; reduce equipment maintenance downtime and improve the production efficiency of the whole machine; automated operation greatly reduces the labor intensity and labor costs of personnel, and compared with traditional technical production methods, it will greatly improve the production efficiency of equipment.

[0023] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is an operation flow chart of the automated additive manufacturing production line provided by the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the frame of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 It is a schematic structural diagram of the forming cylinder replacement equipment of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the loading state of the forming cylinder replacement device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the printing state of a forming cylinder of a forming cylinder replacement device of an additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the forming cylinder transfer mechanism of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the forming cylinder support seat of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0032] Fig. 9 It is a schematic structural diagram of a pick-and-place device and a forming cylinder lifting assembly of an additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0033] Fig.10 It is a side view of the printing table driving device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0034] Fig.11It is a schematic diagram of the structure of a forming cylinder of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0035] Fig.12 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of a printing table of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0036] Fig.13 It is a schematic diagram of the base plate structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0037] Fig.14 It is a schematic structural diagram of a printing substrate from a first perspective of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0038] Fig.15 It is a schematic structural diagram of a printing substrate of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention from a second viewing angle.

[0039] Fig.16 It is a schematic structural diagram of the sealing device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0040] Fig.17 It is a schematic diagram of the use status of the sealing device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0041] Description of reference numerals: 1. additive manufacturing system; 101. operating table; 102. rack; 2. transfer equipment; 3. pick-and-place device; 4. lifting device; 5. clamping claw; 6. forming cylinder conveying device; 7. transfer track; 8. forming cylinder support seat; 9. forming cylinder limit block; 10. second position sensor; 11. first clamping arm; 12. second clamping arm; 13. forming cylinder body; 131. upper side arm; 132. lower side arm; 14. cylinder cover; 15. bottom plate; 151. limit protrusion; 152. buckle; 153. Magnetic element; 16. Printing substrate; 161. Limiting groove; 162. Card slot; 163. Adapter plate; 164. Robot arm clamping groove; 17. Sealing ring; 18. Sealing chamber; 181. Gate; 182. Gate guide rail; 183. Gas channel; 184. Inflatable sealing ring; 185. Air inlet; 186. Forming cylinder positioning column; 19. Printing cabin; 20. Printing table drive device; 21. Powder circulation system; 22. Powder cleaning system; 23. Forming cylinder preparation system; 24. Annealing furnace. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The technical scheme in the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. Although the representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments, but should be limited by the attached claims and their equivalents.

[0043] Reference Figure 1 The present invention provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including a central control system, a powder circulation system 21, a transfer device 2, a powder cleaning system 22, and multiple additive manufacturing systems 1; the powder circulation system 21 is connected to the additive manufacturing system 1 and the powder cleaning system 22 through a powder pipeline; the additive manufacturing system 1 is connected to the powder cleaning system 22 through the transfer device 2; the powder circulation system 21, the transfer device 2, the powder cleaning system 22, and the additive manufacturing system 1 are respectively connected to the central control system by signal. The number of additive manufacturing systems 1 is designed according to the actual situation of the production line.

[0044] All automatic equipment is connected to the central control system, which is responsible for signal monitoring, distribution and signal transmission between interconnected equipment. The central control system can use the MES system to intelligently coordinate the overall operation of the production line. The completion signal of the docking between the transfer equipment 2 and the additive manufacturing system 1, the completion signal of the cylinder delivery and the signal of the molding cylinder in place are all sent to the central control system first, and then the next step of the command is issued to each device for execution. Each device does not directly deliver the signal, but only for safety prevention.

[0045] Transfer equipment 2 is responsible for the addition of powder and the transfer of printed workpieces and molding cylinders. Generally, an AGV with a double station is selected, which can simultaneously and independently control the entry and exit of two molding cylinders. AGV uses QR code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, and 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. AGV specific routes and docking positions with other equipment are equipped with photoelectric sensors for AGV position determination, and the docking spacing is 10 mm. The AGV is planned by the central control system in advance for multiple routes. When two vehicles meet on the same track, the central control system divides the priority A and B according to the distance of each AGV from the destination. Vehicle B makes an avoidance and vehicle A passes first. AGV and each device that needs to be docked with AGV can be docked by rollers. The docking height of each device roller is a unified height. Photoelectric sensors are installed on both sides of the AGV and the equipment roller docking. Laser SLAM navigation can meet the accuracy of ±10mm, and the docking bell mouth design can achieve stable entry and exit of the molding cylinder.

[0046] Multiple additive manufacturing systems 1 are linked together to form parts. After printing is completed, a completion signal is sent to the central control system, and the dust cover on the molding cylinder cover is automatically transported to the discharge port to wait. The central control system dispatches the transfer device 2 to carry an empty molding cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 1, receive the molding cylinder with the molded product, and send the empty molding cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 1 to start the next round of printing. The transfer device 2 sends the molding cylinder with the product received from the additive manufacturing system 1 to the automatic powder cleaning system 22 for powder cleaning, and after the powder cleaning is completed, it is transported to the subsequent processing equipment.

[0047] The powder circulation system 21 is responsible for the powder supply circulation of the additive manufacturing system 1 and the powder recovery of the powder cleaning system 22. It has the functions of recovery, powder screening, drying and powder delivery, and can meet the powder supply needs of the production line 24 hours a day.

[0048] The powder cleaning system 22 may use an automatic powder cleaning machine and / or a manual powder cleaning machine to clean the powder remaining during the 3D printing process, and recycle the powder to the powder circulation system 21 for reuse.

[0049] Furthermore, the automated additive manufacturing production line also includes a molding cylinder preparation system 23 for disassembling and assembling the molding cylinder and the printing substrate 16; the molding cylinder preparation system 23, the additive manufacturing system 1 and the powder cleaning system 22 are connected by a transfer device 2. The transfer device 2 sends the molding cylinder after the powder cleaning to the molding cylinder preparation machine for separation of the printing substrate 16 (with materials) and installation of a new substrate. The molding cylinder with the new substrate installed is then received by the transfer device 2, and the molding cylinder is replaced after the next additive manufacturing system 1 completes printing.

[0050] Specifically, the automated additive manufacturing production line further includes an annealing furnace 24, which is connected to the molding cylinder preparation system 23 via a transfer device 2. The printed substrate 16 with the material separated by the molding cylinder preparation system 23 is sent to the annealing furnace 24 for post-processing.

[0051] In order to facilitate the long-term circulation operation of the production line, the automated additive manufacturing production line also includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system is connected to the powder circulation system 21 through the transfer device 2. When the powder circulation system 21 needs to add powder raw materials, the transfer device 2 adds powder raw materials from the raw material supply system to the powder circulation system 21.

[0052] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 2-6The additive manufacturing system 1 provided by the present invention includes a forming cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station and a transfer mechanism for transferring the forming cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is provided with a pick-up and placement device 3 for taking and placing the cylinder cover 14 of the forming cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is arranged below the printing device; the inlet of the forming cylinder is detachably connected to the material outlet of the printing device. When in use, the empty forming cylinder is transported to the transfer station, the cylinder cover 14 of the forming cylinder is removed by the pick-up and placement device 3, and the transfer mechanism transports the opened forming cylinder body 13 to the printing station, and the forming cylinder body 13 is closely connected with the material outlet of the printing device. After the air tightness test, air washing and other processes, the printing work begins. After the printing is completed, the forming cylinder body 13 is undocking from the material outlet of the printing device, and the transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder body 13 with the printed part to the transfer station, and the pick-up and placement device 3 covers the forming cylinder body 13 with the cylinder cover 14 again, sealing the cylinder body to prevent the powder from overflowing during the transportation process. The sealed forming cylinder is sent out of the forming cylinder replacement equipment for subsequent powder cleaning process, and then the empty forming cylinder is sent to the transfer station, and the above process is repeated for a new round of printing.

[0053] Specifically, refer to Figure 7 The forming cylinder transfer mechanism includes a transfer track 7 and a forming cylinder support seat 8; the forming cylinder support seat 8 is slidably mounted on the transfer track 7, and the transfer station and the printing station are both located within the travel of the forming cylinder support seat 8. The forming cylinder is carried by the forming cylinder support seat 8, and by moving on the transfer track 7, an empty cylinder is transferred from the transfer station to the printing station, or a forming cylinder with a printed part in the printing station is transported back to the transfer station. Further, as Figure 8 As shown, a forming cylinder limit block 9 is provided on the forming cylinder support seat 8 to prevent the forming cylinder from shifting during transportation and affecting printing.

[0054] In one embodiment, the forming cylinder support seat 8 can be first moved to the transfer station, and then the empty forming cylinder can be directly sent to the forming cylinder support seat 8, and then subsequent operations such as removing the cover and printing can be performed.

[0055] In another embodiment, in order to prevent the empty forming cylinder from entering the transfer station first and interfering with the movement of the forming cylinder support seat 8, the transfer station is further provided with a forming cylinder lifting assembly. When in use, the empty forming cylinder is transported to the transfer station, the cylinder cover 14 of the forming cylinder is removed by the pick-and-place device 3, and the forming cylinder lifting assembly lifts the forming cylinder body 13 to a position higher than the forming cylinder support seat 8. The forming cylinder support seat 8 moves to the transfer station, and the forming cylinder lifting assembly lowers the forming cylinder body 13 onto the forming cylinder support seat 8, and the forming cylinder support seat 8 transports the forming cylinder body 13 to the printing station. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder support seat 8 directly transports the forming cylinder back to the transfer station. The forming cylinder lifting assembly lifts the forming cylinder body 13 and withdraws the forming cylinder support seat 8.

[0056] Specifically, the molding cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 4 and a clamping claw 5; the clamping claw 5 is installed at the lifting end of the lifting device 4. The lifting device 4 drives the clamping claw 5 to clamp the molding cylinder in the transfer station downward, so as to lift the molding cylinder body 13.

[0057] Optionally, the pick-and-place device 3 is integrated with the molding cylinder lifting assembly, such as Fig. 9 As shown, the pick-and-place device 3 is preferably an electromagnetic suction and placement device 3, which is arranged in the middle of the clamping jaws 5. When in use, the clamping jaws 5 are opened, and the electromagnetic suction and placement device 3 and the clamping jaws 5 move downward together, and the electromagnetic suction and placement device 3 adsorbs the cylinder cover 14, and the clamping jaws 5 contract and clamp the molding cylinder body 13, and the lifting device 4 is started to lift the entire molding cylinder upward to a certain height. After the molding cylinder support seat 8 moves to the bottom of the molding cylinder, the molding cylinder is lowered onto the molding cylinder support seat 8, and the clamping of the molding cylinder is released, and the electromagnetic suction and placement device 3 is kept adsorbing the cylinder cover 14. The clamping jaws 5, the electromagnetic suction and placement device 3, and the cylinder cover 14 are lifted again to open the molding cylinder. After printing is completed, the molding cylinder support seat 8 sends the molding cylinder body 13 back to the transfer station, the clamping jaws 5 lift the molding cylinder again, the molding cylinder support seat 8 is evacuated, the electromagnetic suction and placement device 3 releases the magnetic attraction, and the cylinder cover 14 is covered again.

[0058] The transfer device 2 is connected to the transfer station of the additive manufacturing system 1 to deliver the forming cylinder to the transfer station and / or receive the forming cylinder with the formed product output by the transfer station. In a detailed embodiment, a forming cylinder conveying device 6 connected to the transfer device 2 is provided in the transfer station. The forming cylinder conveying device 6 receives the empty forming cylinder to the designated position of the transfer station, or delivers the forming cylinder after printing to the transfer device 2. The forming cylinder conveying device 6 can select a roller line, a conveyor belt or other feasible structures as needed.

[0059] Preferably, the transfer equipment 2 is an AGV, and the molding cylinder conveying device 6 is a roller line. At least two stations are set on the AGV, one for receiving the molding cylinder that has been printed, and the other for placing the empty molding cylinder. During operation, the AGV sends the empty molding cylinder to the roller line, and the roller line transports the molding cylinder to the designated position of the transfer station. Or the roller line transports the printed molding cylinder to the AGV, and the AGV sends the printed molding cylinder to the subsequent powder cleaning equipment. The docking height of the AGV and the roller line is a unified height. The docking side of the AGV and the roller line is preferably installed with a photoelectric sensor. The laser SLAM navigation can meet the accuracy of ±10mm, and the docking bell mouth design can realize the stable entry and exit of the molding cylinder. After docking, the servo axis of the equipment pushes out the molding cylinder, the AGV synchronously receives the printed molding cylinder, and then sends the empty cylinder to the equipment, and the equipment starts the next round of printing.

[0060] In an optimized implementation, the transfer station is provided with a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder. When the forming cylinder is delivered to the position, the first position sensor sends a signal, and the pick-and-place device 3, the forming cylinder lifting assembly and other equipment perform corresponding operations.

[0061] When the transfer station is provided with a molding cylinder conveying device 6, the first position sensor is arranged on the molding cylinder conveying device 6 to monitor the position of the molding cylinder in real time to ensure that the molding cylinder is transported to the right place without affecting the operation of the picking and placing device 3, the molding cylinder lifting assembly and the molding cylinder transfer mechanism.

[0062] Furthermore, the printing station is provided with a fixing device for fixing the forming cylinder in the printing station. When the forming cylinder body 13 in the printing station is tightly docked with the printing device, the fixing device fixes the forming cylinder body 13. After the printing is completed, the forming cylinder body 13 is undocking from the printing chamber 19, the fixing device releases the forming cylinder body 13, and the forming cylinder transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder body 13 with the printed part to the transfer station.

[0063] In order to ensure that the forming cylinder is properly docked with the printing device, the transfer mechanism is provided with a second position sensor 10 for sensing the position of the forming cylinder. According to the information fed back by the second position sensor 10, the position of the forming cylinder is adjusted or the fixing device and other equipment are started to perform corresponding operations.

[0064] In a detailed embodiment, the fixing device includes a driving assembly and a first clamping arm 11 and a second clamping arm 12 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the printing station; the driving assembly drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move relative to each other. The driving assembly can be a driving cylinder, and the installation side of the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 is selected according to the running direction of the forming cylinder transfer mechanism, and does not interfere with the forming cylinder transfer mechanism. After the forming cylinder transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder to the printing station, the driving cylinder drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move toward each other to clamp the forming cylinder.

[0065] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 11-12, the forming cylinder includes a forming cylinder body 13 and a bottom plate 15; the bottom plate 15 is slidably sealed to the inner wall of the forming cylinder body 13; the inlet of the forming cylinder body 13 is detachably connected to the material outlet of the printing device. A printing substrate 16 is detachably mounted on the bottom plate 15 to form a printing table. After the forming cylinder body 13 and the printing device are docked in place, powder is spread and printed on the printing substrate 16. After the forming cylinder that has completed printing is transported to the powder cleaning system 22, the bottom plate 15 drives the printed part to rise in the forming cylinder body 13 until it leaves the forming cylinder body 13. During the rising process, most of the powder will flow out of the cylinder under gravity. The robotic arm grabs the printing substrate 16, releases the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15, and starts 360-degree powder cleaning. The bottom plate 15 is combined with the new printing substrate 16 and put into the next round of printing.

[0066] In order to facilitate the printing process, the bottom plate 15 drives the printing substrate 16 to move to the printing height, such as Fig.10 As shown, a printing table driving device 20 is provided below the printing station to drive the bottom plate 15 to slide in the molding cylinder body 13, preferably a Z-axis lifting cylinder. When the molding cylinder is transported to the printing station, docked and fixed with the printing cabin 19, the top end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder extends out and contacts the bottom of the bottom plate 15, pushing the bottom plate 15 to move in the molding cylinder body 13.

[0067] Optionally, the top and bottom of the molding cylinder body 13 are both provided with openings, that is, a through cavity is formed inside, and the printing table is installed in the cavity and is slidably and sealedly connected to the cavity wall. In the working state, the driving end of the printing table driving device 20 extends into the molding cylinder body 13 through the bottom opening of the molding cylinder body 13, contacts the bottom of the bottom plate 15, and pushes the bottom plate 15 to slide up and down in the molding cylinder body 13.

[0068] Specifically, the bottom plate 15 is provided with a limiting protrusion 151; the printing base plate 16 is provided with a limiting groove 161 matching the limiting protrusion 151; the printing base plate 16 is detachably mounted on the top of the bottom plate 15 through the limiting protrusion 151 and the limiting groove 161. The limiting protrusion 151 and the limiting groove 161 adopt a mortise and tenon structure, such as Figure 13-15 As shown, the limiting protrusion 151 is preferably a T-shaped convex strip, and the limiting groove 161 is preferably a T-shaped groove matching the T-shaped convex strip. When in use, the T-shaped convex strip is inserted into the T-shaped groove from the side to achieve the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15. After printing is completed, the bottom plate 15 drives the printing substrate 16 to rise and leave the molding cylinder body 13, and the mechanical arm grabs the printing substrate 16 and pulls the printing substrate 16 out from the side to release the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15. The number, length and arrangement position of the T-shaped convex strips and T-shaped grooves are designed according to the actual size of the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15 to ensure the stability of the connection between the two.

[0069] In order to improve the connection stability between the bottom plate 15 and the printed substrate 16, a buckle 152 is provided on the bottom plate 15; a slot 162 matching the buckle 152 is provided on the printed substrate 16; the buckle 152 and the slot 162 are detachably connected. The number and installation position of the buckle 152 and the slot 162 are designed according to the actual size of the printed substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15.

[0070] Furthermore, a magnetic member 153 is provided on the bottom plate 15; an adapter plate 163 is provided at the bottom of the printed substrate 16; and the magnetic member 153 is magnetically connected to the adapter plate 163. The bottom plate 15 can firmly fix the adapter plate 163 through the magnetic member 153. When the adapter plate 163 needs to be removed, the magnetic force only needs to be released, and the adapter plate 163 together with the printed substrate 16 can be easily removed, which is convenient and fast, making automation more intelligent. Preferably, an electromagnetic member 153 is provided on the top of the bottom plate 15, and is equipped with a controllable magnetic attraction function. The adapter plate 163 is a carbon steel adapter plate 163 or a magnetic adapter plate 163 made of other materials that meet the magnetic attraction requirements. The adapter plate 163 is generally fixed in the middle position of the bottom of the printed substrate 16, which is conducive to the adsorption of the magnetic member 153 on the bottom plate 15, so that the printed substrate 16 made of various materials can be magnetically fixed to the bottom plate 15 through the adapter plate 163.

[0071] In the above embodiment, the detachable connection mode of the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15 enables the back of the printing substrate 16 to be connected to the bottom plate 15, and the front printing surface has no screw holes, which is convenient for disassembly and improves the utilization rate of the printing surface. The printing table can adopt a combination of multiple detachable connection modes, and by equipping with a controllable magnetic suction function and a controllable mortise and tenon structure, a dual fixation of magnetic suction and mechanical is achieved, ensuring that the printing Z axis is firmly combined with the cylinder bottom plate 15, accurately fixing the substrate and the bottom plate 15, and facilitating the automatic disassembly of the two. The above detachable connection mechanism can be quickly assembled and unassembled through automation.

[0072] In a detailed embodiment, a mechanical arm clamping groove 164 is provided on the side arm of the printing substrate 16. When an adapter plate 163 is provided at the bottom of the printing substrate 16, the mechanical arm clamping groove 164 can be opened on the side arm of the adapter plate 163. After printing is completed, the mechanical arm grabs the printing substrate 16 through the mechanical arm clamping groove 164 on the side, and then releases the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15, and starts 360-degree powder cleaning. The groove can facilitate the transportation and mechanical clamping of the substrate.

[0073] In order to prevent the temperature of the bottom of the model from decreasing during printing, causing the part of the model that fits the printing platform to warp or even cause the entire model to fall off, a heater for heating the printing substrate 16 is provided on the bottom plate 15 to continuously heat the model.

[0074] Furthermore, a connector for docking with the control device of the additive manufacturing system 1 is provided at the bottom of the base plate 15. After the molding cylinder and the printing device of the additive manufacturing system 1 are installed in place, the connector is accurately and quickly docked with the control device, and the control device is used to automatically adjust the level of the printed substrate 16 by distance measurement to ensure the levelness within ±0.05mm. When a magnetic suction member 153, a heater or other functional structures are provided on the substrate, the docking control device starts to control the heating, magnetic suction and height position of the entire substrate to cooperate with the equipment printing.

[0075] In an optimized implementation, a positioning groove for the cylinder cover 14 is provided on the top of the forming cylinder body 13, so as to facilitate the placement of the cylinder cover 14 after printing is completed, limit the sealing of the cylinder body, and prevent powder from overflowing during transportation.

[0076] Furthermore, a printing equipment positioning hole is also provided on the top of the forming cylinder body 13, and the forming cylinder is connected to the printing equipment through the positioning hole to ensure that the forming cylinder is in place.

[0077] In order to facilitate the transportation of the forming cylinder, a side arm for clamping and carrying is provided on the outside of the forming cylinder body 13. Optionally, an upper side arm 131 and a lower side arm 132 are provided on the upper and lower ends of the outer side wall of the forming cylinder body 13, respectively, the upper side arm 131 facilitates external carrying and clamping operations, and the lower side arm 132 is used for positioning the forming cylinder body 13 before docking with the equipment.

[0078] Furthermore, the printing table is adapted to the inner cavity of the molding cylinder body 13, and a sealing ring 17 is provided on the peripheral surface where the printing table contacts the inner wall of the molding cylinder body 13. Preferably, the sealing ring 17 is provided on the peripheral surface where the bottom plate 15 contacts the inner wall of the molding cylinder body 13, and the sealing ring 17 not only realizes the sealing of the entire cylinder body, but also ensures that the powder does not overflow.

[0079] In one embodiment, the printing device includes a laser printing component and a printing chamber 19; the laser printing component is used to perform laser printing in the printing chamber 19; the material outlet of the printing chamber 19 is detachably connected to the inlet of the forming cylinder. The laser printing component prints on the printing table of the forming cylinder. The laser printing component can select an optical system that adapts to the mass production needs of the industry as needed. The printing chamber 19 is the location for laser scanning printing and molding. The metal powder is spread on the printing platform in the forming cylinder through the powder cylinder and the powder spreading mechanism. After spreading, printing is performed. After printing is completed, the printing table descends one layer and spreads powder again. The above process is repeated until printing is completed. A certain amount of powder can be stored in the powder spreading mechanism, and it will return to the powder adding position to add powder after every two layers of powder are spread. A high-definition camera can be configured above the printing chamber 19 to monitor printing and powder spreading in real time. When printing or powder spreading is abnormal, prompts are given and powder is spread again.

[0080] Furthermore, a pressure sensor is provided on the printing chamber 19. The central control system adjusts the supply of protective gas in real time through the pressure feedback from the pressure sensor to meet the gas demand during the printing process and the replacement of the molding cylinder.

[0081] In order to save protective gas and shorten the purge time, refer to Figure 16-17 The additive manufacturing system 1 also includes a sealing device; the sealing device includes a sealing chamber 18; one side of the sealing chamber 18 is connected to the material outlet of the printing chamber 19, and the other side is detachably connected to the inlet of the molding cylinder; a gas channel 183 connecting the printing chamber 19 and the molding cylinder is provided in the sealing chamber 18; a gate assembly for opening or blocking the gas channel 183 is provided in the gas channel 183. When in use, the sealing chamber 18 is first installed at the material outlet of the printing chamber 19, and then the molding cylinder body 13 is connected to the sealing chamber 18. The gate assembly is opened, the gas channel 183 is opened, and the printing chamber 19 and the molding cylinder body 13 are connected through the gas channel 183 of the sealing chamber 18. The equipment starts the gas washing work to reduce the oxygen content, and when the oxygen content reaches the standard, the equipment starts to work. When the work is completed and the molding cylinder needs to be replaced, the gate assembly is closed, the gas channel 183 is blocked, and the connection between the sealing chamber 18 and the molding cylinder is released. Due to the barrier effect of the gate assembly, the printing chamber 19 remains in a closed state, isolating the air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. When it is used for the next work, it is free from gas washing or a small amount of gas washing can ensure the internal oxygen content, thereby saving a lot of gas washing waiting time and the gas consumption cost caused by long-term gas washing, and greatly improving the overall production efficiency of the equipment.

[0082] Specifically, the gate assembly includes a gate rail 182 and a gate plate 181; the gate rail 182 is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 183; the side wall of the sealed chamber 18 is provided with a gate plate 181 entrance and exit communicating with the gas channel 183; the gate plate 181 passes through the gate plate 181 entrance and exit and is slidably connected to the gate rail 182. The gate plate 181 passes through the gate plate 181 entrance and exit and is inserted into the sealed chamber 18, and opens or blocks the gas channel 183 by slidingly cooperating with the gate rail 182, thereby realizing the communication between the printing chamber 19 and the molding cylinder or the sealing of the printing chamber 19 during use. In order to prevent the gate plate 181 from falling into the gas channel 183, a limit block can be set at one end of the gate plate 181. The limit block is larger than the entrance and exit of the gate plate 181. When the gate plate 181 passes through the entrance and exit of the gate plate 181 and is inserted into the sealed warehouse body 18, the limit block is located outside the sealed warehouse body 18 to prevent the gate plate 181 from being completely inserted into the sealed warehouse body 18.

[0083] The length and installation position of the guide rail as well as the number and size of the gate plates 181 are designed according to the actual size of the gas channel 183 to ensure the sealing effect when the gate is closed.

[0084] Optionally, the sealed chamber body 18 is a rectangular parallelepiped structure, and a gas passage 183 with a rectangular cross section is opened along the height direction. The upper and lower end faces of the sealed chamber body 18 are the printing chamber connection face and the molding cylinder connection face respectively. The gate plate 181 guide rail is installed on the inner wall of the gas passage 183 and is parallel to the upper and lower end faces. The gate plate 181 entrance and exit are opened on the side of the sealed chamber body 18 and communicated with the gas passage 183. The specific opening position of the gate plate 181 entrance and exit is designed according to the gate guide rail 182 to ensure that the gate plate 181 is accurately inserted into the gate plate 181 guide rail after passing through the gate plate 181 entrance and exit.

[0085] In order to improve the sealing effect, two groups of gate assemblies can be set, and the inlets and outlets of the two gate plates 181 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sealing chamber body 18, and the two gate plates 181 are arranged in parallel. Multiple groups of gate assemblies can also be designed as needed.

[0086] Furthermore, the gate assembly further includes a driving member for driving the gate plate 181 to slide along the gate guide rail 182. The driving member can be a cylinder or other feasible device to realize automatic opening or closing of the gate plate 181.

[0087] In order to improve the airtightness of the connection between the sealing device and the forming cylinder, an inflatable sealing ring 184 is provided on the sealing chamber body 18; the inflatable sealing ring 184 is arranged around the port of the gas channel 183 on the side where the sealing chamber body 18 is connected to the forming cylinder. Before the forming cylinder is connected, the inflatable sealing ring 184 is in an uninflated state, leaving a gap to facilitate the connection between the forming cylinder and the sealing device. When the forming cylinder body is in place, the inflatable sealing ring 184 is inflated to expand it and make close contact with the top surface of the forming cylinder. The inflatable sealing ring 184 can be an inflatable hose with a strong contraction and expansion mechanism.

[0088] In an optimized implementation, a groove matching the inflatable sealing ring 184 is provided at the joint between the top surface of the forming cylinder body 13 and the inflatable sealing ring 184. After the inflatable sealing ring 184 expands, it fits into the groove, thereby achieving a good sealing effect.

[0089] Furthermore, the sealing device also includes an air source, the output end of which is connected to the air inlet 185 of the inflatable sealing ring 184. The output end of the air source is preferably provided with an electromagnetic valve, and the inflatable sealing strip is inflated and sucked through the air source.

[0090] Optionally, a forming cylinder sensor is provided on the sealing device; the forming cylinder sensor is electrically connected to the air source, and when the forming cylinder sensor senses that the cylinder body is in place, the air source inflates the air sealing ring 184 to ensure the airtightness of the connection.

[0091] In order to control the sealing effect, a pressure gauge is provided between the output end of the gas source and the air inlet 185 of the inflatable sealing ring 184. The pressure of the inflatable sealing ring 184 is adjusted based on the feedback result of the pressure gauge.

[0092] In a detailed embodiment, a molding cylinder positioning column 186 is provided on one side of the sealing chamber 18 connected to the molding cylinder body 13. Matching positioning holes can be provided on the molding cylinder, and the sealing device and the molding cylinder can be accurately docked through the positioning column and the positioning hole to ensure that the molding cylinder is in place.

[0093] Furthermore, a fixed connector for connecting the sealed bin body 18 to the printing device is provided on one side thereof for connecting to the printing chamber 19. The fixed connector may be a bolt or other device capable of achieving fixed connection between two structures. The sealed bin body 18 is fixedly installed at the inlet and outlet of the printing device that needs to be cleaned by the fixed connector, and is generally arranged below the printing chamber 19. In daily use, there is no need to release the connection between the sealed bin body 18 and the printing chamber 19.

[0094] In a detailed implementation, the additive manufacturing system 1 further includes a frame 102; an operating table 101 is provided in the frame 102, a molding cylinder replacement device is installed on the operating table 101, and a printing device is installed in the frame 102. The frame 102 is preferably a sealed structure, and the transfer station is provided at the inlet and outlet end of the frame 102 to facilitate the feeding or output of the molding cylinder. In order to facilitate the movement of the additive manufacturing system 1, rollers are provided at the bottom of the frame 102.

[0095] Furthermore, dust removal equipment and a smoke collection barrel are also provided in the rack 102 to collect the smoke generated in the additive manufacturing system 1, and flame retardant materials are sprayed into the smoke collection barrel regularly to reduce the risk of fire and explosion.

[0096] The present invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing method, which specifically comprises the following steps:

[0097] The model parameters are set and uploaded to the central control system for production scheduling and the corresponding additive manufacturing system 1 is arranged for production. The central control system sends signals to the transfer equipment 2 and the powder circulation system 21. The transfer equipment 2 transports the empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 1, and the powder circulation system 21 transports powder to the additive manufacturing system 1 through the powder pipeline.

[0098] The additive manufacturing system 1 prints products on the printing substrate 16 in the forming cylinder, and sends a signal to the central control system after printing is completed.

[0099] The transfer device 2 carries the empty forming cylinder to the docking point of the additive manufacturing system 1, receives the forming cylinder carrying the product, and transports the empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 1 for the next round of printing.

[0100] The transfer device 2 delivers the forming cylinder carrying the product to the powder cleaning system 22 , and the powder cleaning system 22 cleans the powder and delivers the recovered powder to the powder circulation system 21 through the powder pipeline.

[0101] After the powder is cleaned, the transfer device 2 transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

[0102] Furthermore, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing method also includes adjusting the operation route of the transfer equipment 2 between the powder circulation system 21, the powder cleaning system 22, the multiple additive manufacturing systems 1, and the subsequent processing system through the central control system.

[0103] Specifically, the above-mentioned subsequent processing process includes: the transfer equipment 2 transports the molding cylinder to the molding cylinder preparation system 23, separates the printing substrate 16 carrying the product from the molding cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate 16 in the molding cylinder; the separated printing substrate 16 is sent to the subsequent processing process, and the molding cylinder is transported by the transfer equipment 2 to the additive manufacturing system 1 to wait for the next round of printing.

[0104] Since the printing time of the additive manufacturing system 1 is relatively long, while the production rhythm of the powder cleaning system 22 and the molding cylinder preparation system 23 is fast, the powder cleaning system 22 and the molding cylinder preparation system 23 will spend most of their time waiting for the additive manufacturing system 1 to print. When the molding cylinder preparation system 23 has processed the molding cylinder, the transfer equipment 2 can directly transport the empty molding cylinder to the waiting position in the production area of ​​the additive manufacturing system 1, saving time. After the additive manufacturing system 1 sends a completion signal to the central control system, the additive manufacturing system 1 will transfer the molding cylinder carrying the product to the docking port. At the same time, the transfer equipment 2 carrying the empty molding cylinder in the waiting position in the production area will also receive the information and go to the docking port of the additive manufacturing system 1. The additive manufacturing system 1 starts to dock with the transfer equipment 2. After the molding cylinder carrying the product is received, the transfer equipment 2 starts to send the empty molding cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 1, and the additive manufacturing system 1 automatically runs to start the next printing job.

[0105] Furthermore, when the system detects that powder raw materials need to be added, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer device 2, and the transfer device 2 takes the raw material barrel containing powder from the powder raw material rack and adds it to the powder circulation system 21. The powder circulation system 21 is designed with a raw material adding device. After the raw material barrel is placed in place, the door is closed and filled with argon protection. The clamping arm opens the lid to start adding materials. After the addition, the raw material barrel is transported away by the AGV, and the cycle continues.

[0106] In a detailed implementation, the additive manufacturing system 1 performs air washing before printing, or after printing is completed, during the process of replacing the forming cylinder, the protective gas leaks when the forming cylinder is separated from the printing chamber 19, resulting in insufficient protective gas during the next round of air washing or printing. The central control system adjusts the gas supply in real time through the air pressure in the printing chamber 19.

[0107] The above method does not limit the sequence of the steps, which is planned by the central control system according to actual conditions.

[0108] The effects of the automated additive manufacturing production line and the automated additive manufacturing method of the present invention are studied below through specific embodiments.

[0109] Embodiment 1:

[0110] Reference Figure 1 The present embodiment provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including an MES system, a powder circulation system 21, a transfer device 2, a powder cleaning system 22, a molding cylinder preparation system 23, an argon gas station, a vacuum annealing furnace 24, and five additive manufacturing systems 1.

[0111] The powder cleaning system 22 includes an automatic powder cleaning machine and a manual powder cleaning machine.

[0112] The powder circulation system 21 is designed with a raw material adding device and is equipped with 22 branch pipes, 20 of which are connected to the powder dropping units of the five additive manufacturing systems 1, including 5 powder delivery pipes, 5 powder delivery gas recovery pipes, 5 powder return pipes, and 5 powder return gas recovery pipes. The remaining two powder return pipes are connected to the automatic powder cleaning machine and the manual powder cleaning machine respectively.

[0113] The forming cylinder preparation system 23 is provided with a printing substrate separation station and a new substrate installation station.

[0114] The argon gas station supplies argon gas to the additive manufacturing system 1, the powder circulation system 21, the automatic powder purifier and the manual powder purifier through pipelines.

[0115] The vacuum annealing furnace 24 is used to receive printed products and remove product stress.

[0116] The transfer equipment 2 includes multiple AGVs that use QR code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, and 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. Two transport stations are set on the AGV, one for receiving the printed molding cylinder (station 1) and the other for placing the empty molding cylinder (station 2). The AGV route is planned in advance by the central control system.

[0117] The additive manufacturing system 1 includes a forming cylinder, a frame 102, an operating table 101 installed in the frame 102, a forming cylinder replacement device, a sealing device, and a printing device.

[0118] The printing device comprises a laser printing assembly and a printing chamber 19 , on which a pressure sensor is provided.

[0119] The sealing device includes a sealing chamber 18; one side of the sealing chamber 18 is fixed to the material outlet of the printing chamber 19 by screws, and the other side is provided with a forming cylinder connection port; the forming cylinder connection port is connected to the printing chamber 19 through a gas channel 183, and a gate assembly is provided in the gas channel 183. The gate assembly includes a gate guide 182 and a gate plate 181, the gate guide 182 is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 183, and the side wall of the sealing chamber 18 is provided with a gate plate 181 inlet and outlet connected to the gas channel 183, and the gate plate 181 is inserted into the sealing chamber 18 through the gate plate 181 inlet and outlet, and slides with the gate guide 182. An inflatable sealing ring 184 is provided around the forming cylinder connection port on one side of the sealing chamber 18 connected to the forming cylinder; the air inlet 185 of the inflatable sealing ring 184 is connected to the output end of the gas source; and a forming cylinder sensor and a forming cylinder positioning column 186 are provided on the sealing device.

[0120] The forming cylinder includes a cylinder cover 14, a forming cylinder body 13 and a printing table. The forming cylinder body 13 is provided with openings at the top and bottom, and a through cavity for accommodating the printing table is formed inside; the top opening edge of the forming cylinder body 13 is provided with a cylinder cover 14 positioning groove, a sealing chamber 18 positioning hole and a groove matching the inflatable sealing ring 184; the upper and lower ends of the outer side wall of the forming cylinder body 13 are respectively provided with an upper side arm 131 and a lower side arm 132. The printing table includes a bottom plate 15 and a printing base plate 16 whose size is adapted to the internal cavity of the forming cylinder body 13. A buckle 152 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the top of the bottom plate 15, and two T-shaped convex strips parallel to the left and right sides are provided on the top surface, and the two T-shaped convex strips are symmetrically arranged. An electromagnetic suction piece 153 and a heater are provided between the two T-shaped convex strips, and four connectors for connecting the electromagnetic suction piece 153 and the heater to an external control device are symmetrically provided at the four corners of the bottom of the bottom plate 15. The circumference of the bottom plate 15 in contact with the inner wall of the molding cylinder body 13 is provided with three layers of sealing rings 17 of different materials. The top surface of the printing substrate 16 is the printing surface, without screw holes, and the bottom surface is provided with two T-shaped grooves corresponding to the T-shaped convex strips, and the left and right sides are provided with card slots 162 corresponding to the buckles 152 on the bottom plate 15. A carbon steel adapter plate 163 is embedded in the bottom surface of the printing substrate 16 corresponding to the electromagnetic suction member 153; the side of the printing substrate 16 is provided with a mechanical arm clamping groove 164.

[0121] The forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a pick-and-place device 3, a printing station and a transfer mechanism.

[0122] The transfer mechanism includes two transfer rails 7 arranged in parallel on the surface of the operating table 101 and a forming cylinder support seat 8 slidably connected to the two rails; the forming cylinder support seat 8 is provided with a forming cylinder limit block 9 and a second position sensor 10 for sensing the position of the forming cylinder.

[0123] A forming cylinder lifting assembly and a pick-and-place device 3 are provided above the transfer station. The transfer station is set at one end of the transfer track 7 and is located between two transfer tracks 7. A roller line is provided in the transfer station, and a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder is provided on the roller line. The forming cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 4 and a clamp 5; the clamp 5 is installed at the lifting end of the lifting device 4, and the pick-and-place device 3 is an electromagnetic suction and placement device 3, which is provided in the middle of the clamp 5. Photoelectric sensors are installed on the docking side of the AGV and the roller line, and the docking height is a uniform height.

[0124] The printing station is arranged at the other end of the transfer track 7 and between the two transfer tracks 7, and the printing chamber 19 is located above the printing station. A Z-axis lifting cylinder is arranged below the printing station. The printing station is provided with a fixing device, which includes a first clamping arm 11 and a second clamping arm 12 symmetrically arranged outside the two transfer tracks 7; the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 are both connected to a driving cylinder, and move relative to each other under the action of each driving cylinder.

[0125] The powder circulation system 21, the transfer equipment 2, the powder cleaning system 22, the molding cylinder preparation system 23, the argon gas station, and the additive manufacturing system 1 are respectively connected to the MES system signal.

[0126] Embodiment 2:

[0127] Based on the automated additive manufacturing production line provided in Example 1, this embodiment provides an automated additive manufacturing method, including the following steps.

[0128] Set the model parameters and upload them to the MES system, which will automatically schedule the production and arrange for the corresponding additive manufacturing system 1 to produce it.

[0129] The MES system sends a signal to the AGV and the powder circulation system 21, and the powder circulation system 21 delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system 1 through the powder pipeline. The AGV delivers the empty molding cylinder to the transfer station roller line of the additive manufacturing system 1, and the roller line transports the molding cylinder to the designated position of the transfer station. The first position sensor sends a signal, the clamp 5 opens, the electromagnetic suction and release device 3 and the clamp 5 move downward together, the electromagnetic suction and release device 3 adsorbs the cylinder cover 14, the clamp 5 shrinks and clamps into the upper side arm 131 of the outer side wall of the molding cylinder body 13, and the lifting device 4 starts to lift the entire molding cylinder upward to a certain height. The molding cylinder support seat 8 moves to the bottom of the molding cylinder, and the molding cylinder lifting assembly lowers the molding cylinder onto the molding cylinder support seat 8, and the molding cylinder limit block 9 limits the molding cylinder. Then the clamp 5 releases the clamp on the molding cylinder, while maintaining the electromagnetic suction and release device 3 adsorbing the cylinder cover 14, the clamp 5, the electromagnetic suction and release device 3, and the cylinder cover 14 are lifted again to open the molding cylinder. The molding cylinder support seat 8 drives the molding cylinder after opening the cover to run to the printing station. After the second position sensor 10 sends a molding cylinder in place signal, the molding cylinder is closely docked with the printing chamber 19, and the driving cylinder drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move relative to each other to clamp the molding cylinder. After the molding cylinder sensor of the sealed chamber 18 senses the molding cylinder, it docks with the top positioning hole of the molding cylinder body 13 through the molding cylinder positioning column 186, and starts the gas source to inject air into the inflatable sealing ring 184 to expand it and make it closely contact with the top surface of the molding cylinder to achieve sealing. Pull out the gate 181 and open the gas channel 183 to connect the printing chamber 19 and the molding cylinder body 13 through the gas channel 183 of the sealed chamber 18. After the air tightness test, the lifting end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder drives the printing table to move to the printing height. The argon station supplies gas through a pipeline, and the equipment starts the gas washing work to reduce the oxygen content in the printing chamber 19 and the molding cylinder. When the oxygen content reaches the standard, the equipment starts to work, and the laser printing component performs laser melting printing in the printing chamber 19.

[0130] The connectors at the four corners of the bottom plate 15 are docked with the control device, and the level of the printed substrate 16 is automatically adjusted by distance measurement to ensure the levelness within ±0.05mm. The docked control device starts to control the electromagnetic suction component 153 and the heater to adsorb the carbon steel adapter plate 163 and heat the printed substrate 16. During the printing process, the Z-axis lifting cylinder adjusts the height of the printing table in real time.

[0131] After printing is completed, the additive manufacturing system 1 sends a signal to the central control system to close the gate 181, block the gas channel 183, and release the connection between the sealed chamber 18 and the molding cylinder. Due to the blocking effect of the gate 181, the printing chamber 19 is still in a closed state, isolating the air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. The first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 move in opposite directions to release the molding cylinder, and the molding cylinder support seat 8 transports the molding cylinder body 13 with the printed part to the transfer station. The clamp 5 lifts the molding cylinder and withdraws the molding cylinder support seat 8. The electromagnetic suction part 153 releases the magnetic suction, and the molding cylinder is covered with the cylinder cover 14 to seal the cylinder body, falls back on the roller line, and is sent to the inlet and outlet by the roller line. The photoelectric sensor ensures the accurate position of the cylinder body.

[0132] After receiving the signal, the AGV carries an empty cylinder at the No. 2 station to the additive manufacturing system 1, first docking the vacant No. 1 station with the roller line to receive the completed molding cylinder. After the No. 1 station completes the reception, the AGV moves, and the No. 2 station docks with the roller line again, delivers the empty cylinder to the equipment, and starts the next round of printing.

[0133] The AGV sends the received molding cylinder to the powder cleaning system 22 to start automatic powder cleaning, and transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system 21 through the powder pipeline. After the powder cleaning is completed, the molding cylinder is transported by the AGV to the printing substrate separation station of the molding cylinder preparation system 23, and the printing substrate 16 is pushed out of the molding cylinder body 13. The magnetic force of the electromagnetic suction component 153 and the connection between the buckle 152 and the card slot 162 are released, and the robot grabs the robot clamping groove 164 on the side of the printing substrate 16, pulls the printing substrate 16 out from the side, and releases the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15. The separated printing substrate 16 is sent to the vacuum annealing furnace 24 to remove product stress, and the substrate and parts are separated by wire cutting.

[0134] The forming cylinder is installed with a new printing substrate 16 at the new substrate installation station of the forming cylinder preparation system 23. The robot arm inserts the T-shaped convex strip of the bottom plate 15 into the T-shaped groove of the printing substrate 16 from the side. After the two are fitted in place, the left and right buckles 152 are snapped into the corresponding slots 162 to complete the assembly of the printing substrate 16 and the bottom plate 15 to form a printing table. The cylinder cover 14 is installed on the top of the forming cylinder body 13 to complete the assembly of the forming cylinder, and the AGV is transported to the additive manufacturing system 1 to wait for the next round of printing.

[0135] The production rhythm of additive manufacturing system 1 is about 5 hours, while the production rhythm of powder cleaning system 22 and molding cylinder preparation system 23 is about 20 minutes. Powder cleaning system 22 and molding cylinder preparation system 23 will spend most of their time waiting for additive manufacturing system 1 to print. When molding cylinder preparation system 23 completes the processing of the molding cylinder, AGV can directly place the empty molding cylinder at station No. 2 and transport it to the waiting position in the production area of ​​additive manufacturing system 1. When additive manufacturing system 1 sends a completion signal to the central control system, additive manufacturing system 1 will transfer the molding cylinder carrying the product to the transfer station roller line. At the same time, the AGV carrying the empty molding cylinder at the waiting position in the production area will also receive the information and go to the docking port of the additive manufacturing system 1. The roller line of additive manufacturing system 1 begins to dock with station No. 1 of AGV. Photoelectric sensors are installed at the docking positions of both parties for AGV position determination. AGV laser navigation will also have a position. When the two positions are consistent (±10mm), the molding cylinder carrying the product is pushed out to station No. 1 of AGV. When the forming cylinder carrying the product is received, the No. 2 station of the AGV is docked with the additive manufacturing system 1, and the empty forming cylinder is sent into the additive manufacturing system 1, and the additive manufacturing system 1 automatically runs to start the next printing job.

[0136] During the operation of the production line, the central control system plans and adjusts the operation routes of multiple AGVs between the powder circulation system 21, the powder cleaning system 22 and multiple additive manufacturing systems 1 according to the printing progress of the equipment to avoid detours, backtracking or route conflicts.

[0137] At the same time, the central control system adjusts the gas supply volume and timing of the argon gas station in real time through the pressure changes in the printing chamber 19 fed back by the pressure sensor to meet the demand for protective gas during the washing or printing process.

[0138] When the system detects that metal powder raw materials need to be added, the MES system sends a signal to the AGV, which takes the raw material barrel filled with powder from the powder raw material rack in the raw material area and adds it to the raw material adding device of the powder circulation system 21. After the raw material barrel is put in place, the door is closed and argon gas is filled for protection. The clamping arm opens the lid and starts adding materials. After the addition, the raw material barrel is transported away by the AGV, and the cycle continues.

[0139] The above examples are merely illustrative of the present invention and do not constitute a limitation on the protection scope of the present invention. All designs that are the same or similar to the present invention fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated additive manufacturing production line, characterized in that: It includes a central control system, a powder circulation system, a transfer device, a powder cleaning system and multiple additive manufacturing systems; the powder circulation system is connected to the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system through a powder pipeline; the additive manufacturing system is connected to the powder cleaning system through the transfer device; the powder circulation system, the transfer device, the powder cleaning system and the additive manufacturing system are respectively connected to the central control system by signal.

2. The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a molding cylinder preparation system for disassembling and assembling the molding cylinder and the printing substrate; the molding cylinder preparation system, the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system are connected through a transfer device.

3. The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 2, characterized in that: It also includes an annealing furnace; the annealing furnace is connected to the forming cylinder preparation system through a transfer device.

4. The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system is connected to the powder circulation system through a transfer device.

5. The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that: The additive manufacturing system includes a forming cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station and a transfer mechanism for transferring the forming cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is provided with a picking and placing device for picking and placing the cylinder cover of the forming cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is arranged below the printing device; the transfer station is docked with the transfer device.

6. The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 5, characterized in that: The transfer mechanism includes a transfer track and a forming cylinder support seat; the forming cylinder support seat is slidably installed on the transfer track, and the transfer station and the printing station are both located within the travel of the forming cylinder support seat.

7. An automated additive manufacturing method, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: The powder circulation system delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system through a powder pipeline; Additive manufacturing systems to print products; After printing is completed, the transfer device receives the build cylinder containing the product and transports the empty build cylinder to the additive manufacturing system for the next round of printing; The transfer equipment sends the forming cylinder containing the product to the powder cleaning system for powder cleaning, and transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system through the powder pipeline; After the powder is cleaned, the transfer equipment transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

8. The automated additive manufacturing method according to claim 7, wherein: It also includes adjusting the operating route of the transfer equipment between the powder circulation system, powder cleaning system and additive manufacturing system through a central control system.

9. The automated additive manufacturing method according to claim 7, wherein: The subsequent processing process includes: the transfer equipment transports the forming cylinder to the forming cylinder preparation system, separates the printing substrate carrying the product from the forming cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate in the forming cylinder; the forming cylinder is transported by the transfer equipment to the additive manufacturing system to wait for the next round of printing.

10. The automated additive manufacturing method according to claim 7, wherein: Also includes: When powder raw materials need to be added, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer equipment, which takes powder from the raw material area and adds it to the powder circulation system.

Images