An automated additive manufacturing production line and an automated additive manufacturing method

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and provides an automatic additive manufacturing production line, which comprises 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 with the additive manufacturing systems and the powder cleaning system through powder pipelines; the additive manufacturing systems and the powder cleaning system are connected through the transfer device; the powder circulation system, the transfer device, the powder cleaning system, the additive manufacturing systems are signal connected with the central control system. The production line integrates all the process parts automatically, and the forming cylinder can be quickly replaced after printing; while the workpiece is cleaned, the new forming cylinder is transported and connected with the printing equipment for the next printing, so that the labor is reduced and the efficiency is improved. The application also provides an automatic additive manufacturing method, which can realize the internal circulation of metal powder, basically eliminate the dust in the workshop, ensure the safety of personnel and equipment, improve the production efficiency of the whole machine, greatly reduce the labor cost and improve the production efficiency of the equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of 3D printing technology, specifically relating to an automated additive manufacturing production line and an automated additive manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] Additive manufacturing technology is a novel manufacturing technique based on the principle of layer-by-layer manufacturing. It uses a method of adding materials layer by layer to directly transform a digital model into a physical part. Utilizing powder to be formed, layers are laid, then bonded, sintered, or melted before solidification to form the final shape. Also known as 3D printing, it can manufacture parts with complex shapes. In the 3D printing process, the three-dimensional model is first sliced ​​into layers. Then, layers of powder material are laid on the printing platform within the forming cylinder. After laying all the powder, printing is performed. After printing is complete, the printing platform lowers by one layer, and more powder is laid, repeating the process until printing is finished.

[0003] The existing single-machine production mode can no longer meet the needs of large-scale application services, and usually suffers from 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 this invention is to overcome the problems of low production efficiency, high requirements for manual operation, and safety hazards in the production process of existing technologies.

[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 powder pipelines; 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 signal-connected to the central control system.

[0006] Specifically, the aforementioned 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 aforementioned automated additive manufacturing production line also includes an annealing furnace; the annealing furnace and the forming cylinder preparation system are connected via a transfer device.

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

[0009] The above-mentioned additive manufacturing system includes a molding cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the molding cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism for transferring molding cylinders between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is equipped with a pick-and-place device for picking up and placing the cylinder head of the molding cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is located below the printing device; the transfer station is connected to the transfer device.

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

[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 powder pipelines;

[0013] Additive manufacturing systems are used for product printing;

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

[0015] The transfer equipment delivers the forming cylinder carrying the product to the powder cleaning system for cleaning, and then transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system through the powder pipeline.

[0016] After the powder cleaning is completed, the transfer equipment will transport the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing steps.

[0017] Specifically, the aforementioned automated additive manufacturing method also includes adjusting the operating routes of the transfer equipment between the powder circulation system, the powder cleaning system, and the additive manufacturing system through a central control system.

[0018] Specifically, the aforementioned subsequent processing includes: the transfer equipment transports the molding cylinder to the molding cylinder preparation system, separates the printing substrate carrying the product from the molding cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate in the molding cylinder; the molding cylinder is then transported by the transfer equipment to the additive manufacturing system to await the next round of printing.

[0019] Specifically, the aforementioned automated additive manufacturing method also includes: when powder raw materials need to be added, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer equipment, which then 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 this invention integrates all process parts into automation. 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, reducing manpower and improving production efficiency.

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

[0023] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the automated additive manufacturing production line provided by the present invention.

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

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

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the molding cylinder replacement device in the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the loading status of the molding cylinder replacement device in the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the molding cylinder printing status of the molding cylinder replacement device in the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

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

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

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

[0033] Figure 10 This is a side view of the printing table drive device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

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

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

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

[0037] Figure 14 This is a first-view structural diagram of the printing substrate of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a second-view structural diagram of the printing substrate of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0039] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing device structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0040] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention in use.

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Additive manufacturing system; 101. Operating table; 102. Frame; 2. Transfer equipment; 3. Picking and placing device; 4. Lifting device; 5. Gripper; 6. Molding cylinder conveying device; 7. Transfer track; 8. Molding cylinder support base; 9. Molding cylinder limit block; 10. Second position sensor; 11. First clamping arm; 12. Second clamping arm; 13. Molding cylinder body; 131. Upper arm; 132. Lower arm; 14. Cylinder cover; 15. Base plate; 151. Limiting protrusion; 152. Buckle; 153. Magnetic suction component; 16. Printing substrate; 161. Limiting groove; 162. Card slot; 163. Adapter plate; 164. Mechanical arm clamping groove; 17. Sealing ring; 18. Sealing chamber; 181. Gate plate; 182. Gate guide rail; 183. Gas channel; 184. Inflatable sealing ring; 185. Air inlet; 186. Molding cylinder positioning post; 19. Printing chamber; 20. Printing table drive device; 21. Powder circulation system; 22. Powder cleaning system; 23. Molding cylinder preparation system; 24. Annealing furnace. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Although representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand 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 defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0043] Reference Figure 1 This 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 via powder pipelines. The additive manufacturing system 1 and the powder cleaning system 22 are connected via 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 all connected to the central control system via signals. The number of additive manufacturing systems 1 is designed according to the actual situation of the production line.

[0044] All automated equipment is connected to a central control system, which is responsible for monitoring and distributing signals from all equipment and transmitting signals between interconnected devices. The central control system can be an MES system, which intelligently coordinates the overall operation of the production line. The signals indicating the completion of the docking between the transfer equipment 2 and the additive manufacturing system 1, the cylinder delivery completion signal, and the forming cylinder arrival signal are all sent to the central control system first, and then the next instructions are issued to each piece of equipment for execution. The equipment does not directly deliver signals; it only performs safety error prevention.

[0045] Transfer equipment 2 is responsible for powder addition and the transfer of printed workpieces and molding cylinders. It typically uses a dual-station AGV, capable of simultaneously and independently controlling the entry and exit of two molding cylinders. The AGV employs QR code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, with 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. Photoelectric sensors are installed at the docking points with other equipment along specific AGV routes to determine the AGV's position, with a docking spacing of 10 mm. The central control system pre-plans multiple routes for the AGVs. When two AGVs meet on the same track, the central control system prioritizes them (A and B) based on their distance from the destination; vehicle B yields, and vehicle A has priority. The AGVs and the equipment that needs to dock with them can use a roller docking method. The roller docking height for all equipment is uniform. Photoelectric sensors are installed on both sides of the roller docking point for both the AGV and the equipment. Laser SLAM navigation can achieve an accuracy of ±10 mm, and the flared docking opening design ensures stable entry and exit of the molding cylinders.

[0046] Multiple additive manufacturing systems 1 operate in tandem for part forming. After printing, each system sends a completion signal to the central control system and automatically transports the dust cover on the forming cylinder to the discharge port. The central control system dispatches a transfer device 2 carrying an empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 1. The transfer device 2 receives the forming cylinder containing the formed product and sends the empty forming cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 1 to begin the next printing cycle. The transfer device 2 then sends the forming cylinder containing the product received from the additive manufacturing system 1 to an automatic powder cleaning system 22 for powder cleaning. After cleaning, the part is transported to 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 functions of recovery, sieving, 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 can be an automatic powder cleaner and / or a manual powder cleaner to clean up the powder remaining during the 3D printing process and recycle the powder to the powder recycling 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 powder cleaning to the molding cylinder preparation machine for separating the printing substrate 16 (with material) and installing 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 also includes an annealing furnace 24; the annealing furnace 24 is connected to the molding cylinder preparation system 23 via a transfer device 2. The printed substrate 16 containing materials separated from the molding cylinder preparation system 23 is sent to the annealing furnace 24 for post-processing.

[0051] To facilitate long-term cyclical operation of the production line, the automated additive manufacturing production line also includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system and the powder circulation system 21 are connected via a transfer device 2. When the powder circulation system 21 needs to be replenished with powder raw materials, the transfer device 2 adds the powder raw materials from the raw material supply system to the powder circulation system 21.

[0052] In one implementation, refer to Figure 2-6The additive manufacturing system 1 provided by this invention includes a molding cylinder replacement device and a printing device. The molding cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the molding cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station. The transfer station is equipped with a pick-and-place device 3 for picking up and placing the molding cylinder cover 14 within the transfer station. The printing station is located below the printing device. The inlet of the molding cylinder is detachably connected to the material outlet of the printing device. In use, an empty molding cylinder is transported to the transfer station, the pick-and-place device 3 removes the molding cylinder cover 14, and the transfer mechanism transports the opened molding cylinder body 13 to the printing station, where the molding cylinder body 13 is tightly connected to the material outlet of the printing device. After airtightness testing and air washing, printing begins. After printing is completed, the molding cylinder body 13 is disconnected from the material outlet of the printing device, and the transfer mechanism transports the molding cylinder body 13 with the printed part to the transfer station. The pick-and-place device 3 then covers the molding cylinder body 13 with the cover 14 again, sealing the cylinder and preventing powder spillage during transfer. After sealing, the forming cylinder is sent out to replace the forming cylinder equipment for subsequent powder cleaning process. 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 8. The forming cylinder support 8 is slidably mounted on the transfer track 7, and both the transfer station and the printing station are located within the stroke of the forming cylinder support 8. The forming cylinder is carried by the forming cylinder support 8, and by moving along the transfer track 7, an empty cylinder is transferred from the transfer station to the printing station, or a forming cylinder containing printed parts in the printing station is transported back to the transfer station. Further, as... Figure 8 As shown, the forming cylinder support base 8 is equipped with a forming cylinder limit block 9 to prevent the forming cylinder from shifting during the transfer process and affecting printing.

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

[0055] In another embodiment, to prevent the empty forming cylinder from entering the transfer station first and interfering with the movement of the forming cylinder support 8, the transfer station is also equipped with a forming cylinder lifting assembly. 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 8. The forming cylinder support 8 moves to the transfer station, the forming cylinder lifting assembly lowers the forming cylinder body 13 onto the forming cylinder support 8, and the forming cylinder support 8 transports the forming cylinder body 13 to the printing station. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder support 8 directly transfers the forming cylinder back to the transfer station. The forming cylinder lifting assembly lifts the forming cylinder body 13 and removes the forming cylinder support 8.

[0056] Specifically, the forming cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 4 and a gripper 5; the gripper 5 is installed on the lifting end of the lifting device 4. The lifting device 4 drives the gripper 5 to grip the forming cylinder in the transfer station downwards, thereby lifting the forming cylinder body 13.

[0057] Optionally, the pick-and-place device 3 is integrated with the molding cylinder lifting assembly, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the pick-and-place device 3 is preferably an electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3, located in the middle of the gripper 5. In use, the gripper 5 opens, and the electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3 and the gripper 5 move downwards together, attracting the cylinder cover 14. The gripper 5 retracts to clamp the forming cylinder body 13, and the lifting device 4 is activated, raising the entire forming cylinder to a certain height. After the forming cylinder support 8 moves below the forming cylinder, the forming cylinder is lowered onto the forming cylinder support 8, releasing the clamp on the forming cylinder. The electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3 maintains its attraction to the cylinder cover 14, and the gripper 5, electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3, and cylinder cover 14 are raised again, opening the forming cylinder. After printing is complete, the forming cylinder support 8 returns the forming cylinder body 13 to the transfer station, the gripper 5 raises the forming cylinder again, the forming cylinder support 8 is removed, the electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3 releases its magnetic attraction, and the cylinder cover 14 is reattached.

[0058] The transfer equipment 2 docks with the transfer station of the additive manufacturing system 1, conveying molding cylinders to the transfer station and / or receiving molding cylinders with molded products output from the transfer station. In a detailed embodiment, the transfer station is equipped with a molding cylinder conveying device 6 that docks with the transfer equipment 2. The molding cylinder conveying device 6 receives empty molding cylinders to a designated position in the transfer station, or sends molded cylinders that have completed printing to the transfer equipment 2. The molding cylinder conveying device 6 can be selected as a roller conveyor, conveyor belt, or other feasible structure as needed.

[0059] Preferably, the transfer device 2 is an AGV, and the forming cylinder conveying device 6 is a roller conveyor. The AGV has at least two stations: one for receiving printed forming cylinders and the other for placing empty forming cylinders. During operation, the AGV delivers empty forming cylinders into the roller conveyor, which then transports them to a designated location at the transfer station. Alternatively, the roller conveyor transports printed forming cylinders to the AGV, which then delivers them to the subsequent powder cleaning equipment. The docking height between the AGV and the roller conveyor is uniform. Photoelectric sensors are preferably installed on the docking side of the AGV and roller conveyor. Laser SLAM navigation can achieve an accuracy of ±10mm, and the flared docking opening design ensures stable entry and exit of the forming cylinders. After docking, the equipment servo axis pushes out the forming cylinder, the AGV simultaneously receives the printed forming cylinder, and then delivers the empty cylinder into the equipment, which then begins the next printing cycle.

[0060] In one optimized embodiment, the transfer station is equipped with a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder. When the forming cylinder is transported to its designated 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 equipped with a molding cylinder conveying device 6, the first position sensor is set on the molding cylinder conveying device 6 to monitor the position of the molding cylinder in real time, ensuring that the molding cylinder is transported to the correct position and does not affect the operation of the pick-and-place device 3, the molding cylinder lifting component, and the molding cylinder transfer mechanism.

[0062] Furthermore, the printing station is equipped with a fixing device for securing the forming cylinder to the printing station. After the forming cylinder body 13 is tightly connected with the printing equipment in the printing station, the fixing device secures the forming cylinder body 13. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder body 13 is disconnected 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] To ensure proper alignment between the forming cylinder and the printing equipment, a second position sensor 10 is installed on the transfer mechanism to detect the position of the forming cylinder. Based on the information fed back by the second position sensor 10, the position of the forming cylinder is adjusted or the fixing device or other equipment is activated to perform corresponding operations.

[0064] In a detailed embodiment, the fixing device includes a drive assembly and a first clamping arm 11 and a second clamping arm 12 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the printing station. The drive assembly drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move relative to each other. The drive assembly can be a drive cylinder, and the mounting sides of the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 are selected according to the running direction of the forming cylinder transfer mechanism, so as not to interfere with the forming cylinder transfer mechanism. After the forming cylinder transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder to the printing station, the drive cylinder drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move towards each other, clamping the forming cylinder.

[0065] In one implementation, refer to Figure 11-12The forming cylinder includes a forming cylinder body 13 and a base plate 15; the base 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 equipment. A printing substrate 16 is detachably mounted on the base plate 15 to form a printing stage. After the forming cylinder body 13 is docked with the printing equipment, powder is spread and printing is performed on the printing substrate 16. After the forming cylinder that has finished printing is transported to the powder cleaning system 22, the base plate 15 drives the printed part to rise inside 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, disconnects the printing substrate 16 from the base plate 15, and begins 360-degree powder cleaning. The base plate 15 is combined with the new printing substrate 16 and put into the next round of printing.

[0066] To facilitate the printing process, the base plate 15 moves the printing substrate 16 to the printing height, such as... Figure 10 As shown, a printing station drive device 20 is provided below the printing station to drive the base plate 15 to slide within the forming cylinder body 13, preferably a Z-axis lifting cylinder. When the forming cylinder is transported to the printing station and docked and fixed with the printing chamber 19, the top end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder extends out and contacts the bottom of the base plate 15, pushing the base plate 15 to move within the forming cylinder body 13.

[0067] Optionally, the top and bottom of the forming cylinder body 13 are provided with openings, forming a through cavity inside. The printing table is installed in the cavity and is slidably and sealingly connected to the cavity wall. In the working state, the driving end of the printing table drive device 20 extends into the forming cylinder body 13 through the bottom opening and contacts the bottom of the base plate 15, pushing the base plate 15 to slide up and down inside the forming cylinder body 13.

[0068] Specifically, the base plate 15 is provided with a limiting protrusion 151; the printing substrate 16 is provided with a limiting groove 161 that matches the limiting protrusion 151; the printing substrate 16 is detachably mounted on the top of the base plate 15 via 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 protrusion, and the limiting groove 161 is preferably a T-shaped groove that matches the T-shaped protrusion. In use, the T-shaped protrusion is inserted into the T-shaped groove from the side to connect the printing substrate 16 to the base plate 15. After printing, the base plate 15 drives the printing substrate 16 to rise away from the forming cylinder body 13. The robotic arm grabs the printing substrate 16 and pulls it out from the side, detaching the connection between the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15. The number, length, and arrangement of the T-shaped protrusions and T-shaped grooves are designed according to the actual dimensions of the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15 to ensure the stability of their connection.

[0069] To improve the connection stability between the base plate 15 and the printing substrate 16, the base plate 15 is provided with a buckle 152; the printing substrate 16 is provided with a slot 162 that matches the buckle 152; the buckle 152 and the slot 162 are detachably connected. The number and installation position of the buckles 152 and the slots 162 are designed according to the actual dimensions of the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15.

[0070] Furthermore, the base plate 15 is provided with a magnetic suction member 153; the bottom of the printing substrate 16 is provided with an adapter plate 163; the magnetic suction member 153 and the adapter plate 163 are magnetically connected. The base plate 15 can firmly fix the adapter plate 163 through the magnetic suction member 153. When it is necessary to remove the adapter plate 163, simply release the magnetic force, and the adapter plate 163 along with the printing substrate 16 can be easily removed, which is convenient and quick, and promotes more intelligent automation. Preferably, an electromagnetic suction member 153 is provided on the top of the base plate 15, equipped with a controllable magnetic suction function. The adapter plate 163 is a carbon steel adapter plate 163 or a magnetic suction adapter plate 163 made of other materials that meet the magnetic suction requirements. The adapter plate 163 is generally fixed in the middle of the bottom of the printing substrate 16, which is conducive to the attraction of the magnetic suction member 153 on the base plate 15, so that the printing substrate 16 made of various materials can be magnetically fixed to the base plate 15 through the adapter plate 163.

[0071] In the above embodiments, the detachable connection between the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15 allows the back of the printing substrate 16 to be connected to the base plate 15, with no screw holes on the front printing surface, facilitating disassembly and improving the utilization rate of the printing surface. The printing table can adopt various detachable connection methods, and by equipping it with a controllable magnetic attraction function and a controllable tenon and mortise structure, it achieves both magnetic attraction and mechanical fixation, ensuring a stable connection between the printing Z-axis and the cylinder base plate 15, accurately fixing the substrate and the base plate 15, and facilitating automatic disassembly of both. The above detachable connection mechanism can be quickly and automatically assembled and disassembled.

[0072] In a detailed embodiment, a robotic arm gripping groove 164 is provided on the side arm of the printing substrate 16. When the bottom of the printing substrate 16 is provided with an adapter plate 163, the robotic arm gripping groove 164 can be formed on the side arm of the adapter plate 163. After printing is completed, the robotic arm grips the printing substrate 16 through the side robotic arm gripping groove 164, and then disconnects the printing substrate 16 from the base plate 15 to begin 360-degree toner cleaning. The groove facilitates substrate transfer and mechanical gripping.

[0073] To prevent the temperature at the bottom of the model from dropping during the printing process, which could cause the part of the model that is in contact with the printing platform to warp or even detach the entire model, the base plate 15 is equipped with a heater for heating the printing substrate 16 to continuously heat the model.

[0074] Furthermore, the bottom of the base plate 15 is provided with a connector for docking with the control equipment of the additive manufacturing system 1. After the forming cylinder and the printing equipment of the additive manufacturing system 1 are installed in place, they are precisely and quickly docked with the control equipment through the connector. The control equipment automatically adjusts the level of the printing substrate 16 by distance measurement to ensure that the levelness is within ±0.05mm. When the substrate is equipped with a magnetic suction component 153, a heater, or other functional structures, the docked control equipment begins to control the overall heating of the substrate, and the magnetic suction and height position are coordinated with the printing equipment.

[0075] In one optimized embodiment, the top of the forming cylinder body 13 is provided with a positioning groove for the cylinder cover 14, which facilitates the placement of the cylinder cover 14 after printing, limits and seals the cylinder body, and prevents powder from overflowing during the transfer process.

[0076] Furthermore, the top of the forming cylinder body 13 is also provided with a printing equipment positioning hole, which connects with the printing equipment to ensure that the forming cylinder is in place.

[0077] To facilitate the transfer of the forming cylinder, the forming cylinder body 13 is provided with side arms for clamping and carrying. Optionally, 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 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 platform is adapted to the inner cavity of the molding cylinder body 13, and a sealing ring 17 is fitted on the circumferential surface of the printing platform that contacts the inner wall of the molding cylinder body 13. Preferably, the sealing ring 17 is fitted on the circumferential surface of the base plate 15 that contacts the inner wall of the molding cylinder body 13. The sealing ring 17 achieves sealing of the entire cylinder body on the one hand, and ensures that powder does not overflow on the other hand.

[0079] In one embodiment, the printing device includes a laser printing component and a printing chamber 19. The laser printing component performs laser printing within the printing chamber 19. The material outlet of the printing chamber 19 is detachably connected to the inlet of the forming cylinder. Printing is performed by the laser printing component on the printing platform of the forming cylinder. The laser printing component can be selected with an optical system adapted to the industry's mass production needs. The printing chamber 19 is the location for laser scanning and printing. Metal powder is spread onto the printing platform within the forming cylinder via a powder cylinder and a powder spreading mechanism. After spreading, printing is performed. After printing, the printing platform descends one layer, and powder is spread again, repeating the above process until printing is complete. The powder spreading mechanism can store a certain amount of powder, returning to the powder refilling position after every two layers of powder are spread. A high-definition camera can be installed above the printing chamber 19 to monitor printing and powder spreading in real time. When printing or powder spreading abnormalities occur, a prompt is given and powder is re-spread.

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

[0081] To conserve protective gas and shorten the gas washing 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 forming cylinder; the sealing chamber 18 has a gas passage 183 connecting the printing chamber 19 and the forming cylinder; the gas passage 183 has a gate assembly for opening or blocking the gas passage 183. In use, the sealing chamber 18 is first installed at the material outlet of the printing chamber 19, and then the forming cylinder body 13 is connected to the sealing chamber 18. The gate assembly is opened to open the gas passage 183, so that the printing chamber 19 and the forming cylinder body 13 are connected through the gas passage 183 of the sealing chamber 18. The equipment starts gas washing to reduce the oxygen content. When the oxygen content reaches the standard, the equipment starts working. When the work is completed and the forming cylinder needs to be replaced, the gate assembly is closed to block the gas passage 183 and disconnect the sealing chamber 18 from the forming cylinder. Due to the barrier effect of the gate assembly, the printing chamber 19 remains sealed, isolating it from air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. When it is used for the next operation, it can be exempted from gas washing or only a small amount of gas washing is needed to ensure the internal oxygen content, thereby saving a lot of gas washing waiting time and the gas consumption cost caused by long gas washing, and greatly improving the overall production efficiency of the equipment.

[0082] Specifically, the gate assembly includes a gate guide rail 182 and a gate plate 181; the gate guide rail 182 is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 183; the side wall of the sealed chamber 18 has an inlet and outlet of the gate plate 181 communicating with the gas channel 183; the gate plate 181 is slidably connected to the gate guide rail 182 through the inlet and outlet of the gate plate 181. The gate plate 181 is inserted into the sealed chamber 18 through the inlet and outlet of the gate plate 181, and by slidingly engaging with the gate guide rail 182, it opens or blocks the gas channel 183, thereby achieving communication between the printing chamber 19 and the forming cylinder or sealing of the printing chamber 19 during use. To prevent the gate 181 from falling into the gas passage 183, a limiting block can be set at one end of the gate 181. The limiting block is larger than the gate 181 inlet and outlet. When the gate 181 passes through the gate 181 inlet and outlet and is inserted into the sealing chamber 18, the limiting block is located outside the sealing chamber 18, preventing the gate 181 from being completely inserted into the sealing chamber 18.

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

[0084] Optionally, the sealed chamber 18 has a cuboid structure with a rectangular gas channel 183 along its height. The upper and lower end faces of the sealed chamber 18 are the connecting surface for the printing chamber and the connecting surface for the forming cylinder, respectively. The gate 181 guide rail is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 183 and is parallel to the upper and lower end faces. The gate 181 inlet and outlet are located on the side of the sealed chamber 18 and are connected to the gas channel 183. The specific location of the gate 181 inlet and outlet is designed according to the gate guide rail 182 to ensure that the gate 181 is accurately inserted into the gate guide rail after passing through the gate 181 inlet and outlet.

[0085] To improve the sealing effect, two sets of gate assemblies can be installed, with two gate plates 181 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sealed chamber 18, and the two gate plates 181 arranged in parallel. Multiple sets of gate assemblies can also be designed as needed.

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

[0087] To improve the airtightness of the connection between the sealing device and the molding cylinder, an inflatable sealing ring 184 is provided on the sealing chamber 18. The inflatable sealing ring 184 is arranged around the gas channel 183 port on the side where the sealing chamber 18 connects to the molding cylinder. Before the molding cylinder is connected, the inflatable sealing ring 184 is in an uninflated state, leaving a gap for the molding cylinder to dock with the sealing device. After the molding cylinder is in place, air is inflated into the inflatable sealing ring 184, causing it to expand and make tight contact with the top surface of the molding cylinder. The inflatable sealing ring 184 can be made of an inflatable hose with a strong contraction and expansion mechanism.

[0088] In one optimized embodiment, the top surface of the molding cylinder body 13 is provided with a groove that matches the inflatable sealing ring 184 at the joint between the top surface 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 the air source is connected to the air inlet 185 of the inflatable sealing ring 184. Preferably, the output end of the air source is equipped with a solenoid valve, which inflates and draws air into the inflatable sealing strip.

[0090] Optionally, the sealing device is equipped with a forming cylinder sensor; the forming cylinder sensor is electrically connected to the air source, and when the forming cylinder sensor senses that the cylinder is in place, the air source inflates the air sealing ring 184 to ensure the connection is airtight.

[0091] In order to control the sealing effect, a pressure gauge is provided between the output end of the air source and the air inlet 185 of the air-filled sealing ring 184. Based on the feedback from the pressure gauge, the inflation of the air-filled sealing ring 184 is increased.

[0092] In a detailed embodiment, a molding cylinder positioning post 186 is provided on the side where the sealing chamber 18 connects to the molding cylinder body 13. Matching positioning holes can be provided on the molding cylinder, and the precise docking of the sealing device and the molding cylinder can be achieved through the positioning post and positioning holes to ensure that the molding cylinder is in place.

[0093] Furthermore, the sealed chamber 18 is provided with a fixing connector on the side connected to the printing equipment for connecting the printing chamber 19. The fixing connector can be bolts or other devices that can achieve a fixed connection between the two structures. The sealed chamber 18 is fixedly installed at the material inlet and outlet of the printing equipment requiring gas washing via the fixing connector, generally located below the printing chamber 19. During normal use, it is not necessary to disconnect the sealed chamber 18 from the printing chamber 19.

[0094] In a detailed embodiment, the additive manufacturing system 1 further includes a frame 102; an operating table 101 is provided inside the frame 102, a forming cylinder changing device is installed on the operating table 101, and a printing device is installed inside the frame 102. The frame 102 is preferably a sealed structure, with a transfer station located at the inlet / outlet end of the frame 102 to facilitate the feeding or output of the forming cylinder. To facilitate the movement of the additive manufacturing system 1, casters are provided at the bottom of the frame 102.

[0095] Furthermore, the rack 102 is also equipped with dust removal equipment and a smoke collection bin to collect the smoke generated in the additive manufacturing system 1, and to periodically spray flame-retardant materials into the smoke collection bin to reduce the risk of fire and explosion.

[0096] This invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing method, specifically including the following steps:

[0097] The model parameters are set and uploaded to the central control system for production scheduling and to arrange production of the corresponding additive manufacturing system 1. 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 inside 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, which cleans the powder and then transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system 21 through the powder pipeline.

[0101] After the powder cleaning is completed, the transfer device 2 will transport the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

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

[0103] Specifically, the aforementioned subsequent processing includes: the transfer device 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, and the molding cylinder is transported by the transfer device 2 to the additive manufacturing system 1 to wait for the next round of printing.

[0104] Because the additive manufacturing system 1 has a long printing time, while the powder cleaning system 22 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 have a fast production pace, the powder cleaning system 22 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 spend most of their time waiting for the additive manufacturing system 1 to print. Once the forming cylinder preparation system 23 has finished processing the forming cylinder, the transfer device 2 can directly transport the empty forming 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 rotate the forming cylinder carrying the product to the docking interface. At the same time, the transfer device 2, which is waiting in the production area with the empty forming cylinder, will also receive the information and go to the docking interface of the additive manufacturing system 1. The additive manufacturing system 1 begins to dock with the transfer device 2. After the forming cylinder carrying the product is received, the transfer device 2 begins to send the empty forming cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 1, and the additive manufacturing system 1 automatically starts the next printing job.

[0105] Furthermore, when the system detects the need to add powdered raw materials, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer device 2, which then retrieves a raw material bucket containing powder from the powder raw material rack and adds it to the powder circulation system 21. The powder circulation system 21 is equipped with a raw material adding device. After the raw material bucket is placed in place, the door is sealed and argon gas is introduced for protection. The clamping arm opens the lid to begin adding the material. After adding the material, the raw material bucket is transported away by an AGV, and the cycle continues.

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

[0107] The above method does not restrict the order of the steps; the central control system will plan the steps according to the actual situation.

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

[0109] Example 1:

[0110] Reference Figure 1 This 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 station, a vacuum annealing furnace 24, and five additive manufacturing systems 1.

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

[0112] The powder circulation system 21 is designed with a raw material adding device and is equipped with 22 branch pipes. 20 of these branch pipes are connected to the powder feeding units of the five additive manufacturing systems 1, including 5 powder feeding pipes, 5 powder feeding 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 cleaner and the manual powder cleaner, respectively.

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

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

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

[0116] The transfer equipment 2 includes multiple AGVs using QR code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, with 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. Each AGV has two transport stations: one for receiving printed molding cylinders (station 1) and one for placing empty molding cylinders (station 2). The AGVs' routes are planned in advance by a 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 includes a laser printing assembly and a printing chamber 19, on which a pressure sensor is installed.

[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 and the printing chamber 19 are connected by a gas channel 183, and a gate assembly is provided in the gas channel 183. The gate assembly includes a gate guide rail 182 and a gate plate 181. The gate guide rail 182 is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 183. The side wall of the sealing chamber 18 has an inlet and outlet of the gate plate 181 that communicates with the gas channel 183. The gate plate 181 passes through the inlet and outlet of the gate plate 181 and is inserted into the sealing chamber 18, slidingly engaging with the gate guide rail 182. An inflatable sealing ring 184 is provided around the forming cylinder connection port on the 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; the sealing device is provided with a forming cylinder sensor and a forming cylinder positioning post 186.

[0120] The forming cylinder includes a cylinder cover 14, a forming cylinder body 13, and a printing table. The forming cylinder body 13 has openings at both the top and bottom, forming a through cavity to accommodate the printing table. The top opening edge of the forming cylinder body 13 has a positioning groove for the cylinder cover 14, a positioning hole for the sealing chamber 18, and a groove matching the inflation sealing ring 184. The upper and lower ends of the outer wall of the forming cylinder body 13 are respectively provided with an upper arm 131 and a lower arm 132. The printing table includes a base plate 15 and a printing substrate 16, the size of which is adapted to the internal cavity of the forming cylinder body 13. The base plate 15 has a buckle 152 on each of its left and right sides at the top, and two T-shaped protrusions parallel to the left and right sides are provided on the top surface, with the two T-shaped protrusions arranged symmetrically. An electromagnetic attractor 153 and a heater are provided between the two T-shaped protrusions, and four connectors for connecting the electromagnetic attractor 153, the heater, and external control equipment are symmetrically provided at the four corners of the bottom of the base plate 15. The circumferential surface of the base plate 15, which contacts the inner wall of the forming 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 has two T-shaped grooves corresponding to the T-shaped protrusions. The left and right sides have slots 162 corresponding to the buckles 152 on the base plate 15. A carbon steel adapter plate 163 is embedded on the bottom surface of the printing substrate 16 at the position corresponding to the electromagnetic suction component 153; the side of the printing substrate 16 is provided with a robotic arm clamping groove 164.

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

[0122] The transfer mechanism includes two parallel transfer tracks 7 arranged on the surface of the operating table 101 and a forming cylinder support 8 slidably connected to the two tracks; the forming cylinder support 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] Above the transfer station is a forming cylinder lifting assembly and a pick-and-place device 3. The transfer station is located at one end of the transfer track 7 and between two transfer tracks 7. A roller conveyor is installed within the transfer station, and a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder is installed on the roller conveyor. The forming cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 4 and grippers 5; the grippers 5 are installed on the lifting end of the lifting device 4, and the pick-and-place device 3 is an electromagnetic pick-and-place device 3, located in the middle of the grippers 5. Photoelectric sensors are installed on the docking sides of both the AGV and the roller conveyor, and the docking height is uniform.

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

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

[0126] Example 2:

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

[0128] The model parameters are set and uploaded to the MES system. The MES system automatically schedules production and arranges the corresponding additive manufacturing system 1 for production.

[0129] The MES system sends signals to the AGV and powder circulation system 21, which then transports powder to the additive manufacturing system 1 via powder pipelines. The AGV transports an empty forming cylinder to the transfer station roller conveyor of the additive manufacturing system 1, which moves the forming cylinder to a designated position at the transfer station. A first position sensor sends a signal, causing the gripper 5 to open. The electromagnetic suction and release device 3 and the gripper 5 move downwards together, with the electromagnetic suction and release device 3 adsorbing the cylinder cover 14. The gripper 5 retracts and clamps the upper arm 131 of the outer wall of the forming cylinder body 13. The lifting device 4 is activated, lifting the entire forming cylinder to a certain height. The forming cylinder support 8 moves below the forming cylinder, and the forming cylinder lifting assembly lowers the forming cylinder onto the support 8. The forming cylinder limiting block 9 limits the forming cylinder. Then, the gripper 5 releases its grip on the forming cylinder while maintaining the electromagnetic suction and release device 3's adsorption on the cylinder cover 14. The gripper 5, electromagnetic suction and release device 3, and cylinder cover 14 are then lifted again, opening the forming cylinder. The forming cylinder support 8 drives the formed cylinder, after its cover is opened, to the printing station. Once the second position sensor 10 sends a signal indicating the forming cylinder is in position, the forming cylinder tightly engages with the printing chamber 19. The drive cylinder then drives the first clamping arm 11 and the second clamping arm 12 to move relative to each other, clamping the forming cylinder. After the forming cylinder sensor in the sealed chamber 18 detects the forming cylinder, it connects with the positioning hole at the top of the forming cylinder body 13 via the forming cylinder positioning pin 186. The air source is then activated to inject air into the inflatable sealing ring 184, causing it to expand and tightly contact the top surface of the forming cylinder to achieve a seal. The gate 181 is pulled out, opening the gas channel 183, allowing the printing chamber 19 and the forming cylinder body 13 to connect through the gas channel 183 of the sealed chamber 18. After the airtightness test, the lifting end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder drives the printing stage to the printing height. Argon gas station supplies gas through pipelines, and the equipment begins gas washing to reduce the oxygen content in printing chamber 19 and forming cylinder. Once the oxygen content reaches the standard, the equipment starts working, and the laser printing components are laser melt-printed in printing chamber 19.

[0130] The connectors at the four corners of the bottom of the base plate 15 are connected to the control equipment. The system automatically adjusts the level of the printing substrate 16 using distance measurement, ensuring a levelness within ±0.05mm. The connected control equipment then controls the electromagnetic suction component 153 and the heater to attract the carbon steel adapter plate 163 and heat the printing substrate 16. During printing, the Z-axis lifting cylinder adjusts the printing stage height in real time.

[0131] After printing is complete, the additive manufacturing system 1 sends a signal to the central control system to close the gate 181, block the gas passage 183, and disconnect the sealed chamber 18 from the forming cylinder. Due to the blocking effect of the gate 181, the printing chamber 19 remains sealed, isolating air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. The first gripping arm 11 and the second gripping arm 12 move in opposite directions to release the forming cylinder, and the forming cylinder body 13 with the printed part is transported to the transfer station by the forming cylinder support 8. The gripper 5 lifts the forming cylinder, removes the forming cylinder support 8, the electromagnetic suction component 153 releases its magnetic attraction, the forming cylinder is resealed with the cylinder cover 14, and falls back onto the roller conveyor, which then delivers it to the inlet and outlet. The photoelectric sensor ensures accurate cylinder positioning.

[0132] After receiving the signal, the AGV carries an empty cylinder to Additive Manufacturing System 1 at station 2. It first connects the empty station 1 to the roller conveyor to receive the printed cylinder. After station 1 completes the reception, the AGV moves to station 2, which then connects to the roller conveyor to deliver the empty cylinder into the equipment, starting the next round of printing.

[0133] The AGV sends the received molding cylinder into the powder cleaning system 22 to begin 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 AGV transports the molding cylinder to the printing substrate separation station of the molding cylinder preparation system 23, and pushes the printing substrate 16 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 slot 162 are released. The robotic arm grasps the robotic arm clamping groove 164 on the side of the printing substrate 16 and pulls the printing substrate 16 out from the side, detaching 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 wire cutting separates the substrate from the parts.

[0134] The molding cylinder installs a new printing substrate 16 at the new substrate mounting station of the molding cylinder preparation system 23. A robotic arm inserts the T-shaped protrusion of the base plate 15 into the T-shaped groove of the printing substrate 16 from the side. After the two are in place, the buckles 152 on the left and right sides are snapped into the corresponding slots 162, completing the assembly of the printing substrate 16 and the base plate 15 to form a printing table. The cylinder cover 14 is installed on the top of the molding cylinder body 13, completing the assembly of the molding cylinder. It is then transported by AGV to the additive manufacturing system 1 to await the next round of printing.

[0135] The production cycle of Additive Manufacturing System 1 is approximately 5 hours, while the production cycle of Powder Cleaning System 22 and Molding Cylinder Preparation System 23 is approximately 20 minutes. Most of the time, Powder Cleaning System 22 and Molding Cylinder Preparation System 23 wait for Additive Manufacturing System 1 to print. Once Molding Cylinder Preparation System 23 has finished processing the molding cylinder, the AGV can directly place the empty molding cylinder at station number two and transport it to the waiting position in the production area of ​​Additive Manufacturing System 1. After Additive Manufacturing System 1 sends a completion signal to the central control system, it will transfer the molding cylinder carrying the product to the transfer station roller conveyor. Simultaneously, the AGV carrying the empty molding cylinder in the waiting position in the production area will also receive the information and proceed to the docking interface of Additive Manufacturing System 1. The roller conveyor of Additive Manufacturing System 1 begins docking with the AGV at station number one. Both docking points are equipped with photoelectric sensors for AGV position determination, and the AGV's laser navigation also provides position information. When the two positions are consistent (±10mm), the molding cylinder carrying the product is pushed out to the AGV's station number one. Once the forming cylinder carrying the product has been received, the AGV's second station docks with the additive manufacturing system 1, sending the empty forming cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 1. The additive manufacturing system 1 then automatically starts the next printing operation.

[0136] During the operation of the production line, the central control system plans and adjusts the running 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, so as to avoid detours, backtracking, or route conflicts.

[0137] Meanwhile, the central control system adjusts the gas supply and timing of the argon station in real time based on the pressure changes in the printing chamber 19 fed back by the pressure sensor, so as to meet the protective gas requirements during the gas 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 then takes the raw material bucket containing 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 bucket is placed in place, the door is sealed and argon gas is introduced for protection. The clamping arm opens the cover to start adding the material. After the material is added, the raw material bucket 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 scope of protection of the present invention. All designs that are the same as or similar to the present invention are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated additive manufacturing production line, characterized by: The system 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 via powder pipelines. The additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning system are connected via the transfer device. The powder circulation system, transfer device, powder cleaning system, and additive manufacturing system are all signal-connected to the central control system. The additive manufacturing system includes a molding cylinder replacement device, a printing device, and a sealing device. The molding cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the molding cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station. The printing station is located below the printing device. The transfer station is connected to the transfer device. The printing device includes a printing chamber. The sealing device includes a sealing chamber. One side of the sealing chamber is connected to the material outlet of the printing chamber, and the other side is detachably connected to the inlet of the molding cylinder. The sealing chamber has a gas channel connecting the printing chamber and the molding cylinder. The gas channel has a gate assembly for opening or blocking the gas channel.

2. The automated additive manufacturing production line of claim 1, wherein: It also includes a molding cylinder preparation system for assembling and disassembling 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.

3. The automated additive manufacturing production line of claim 2, wherein: It also includes an annealing furnace; the annealing furnace and the forming cylinder preparation system are connected by a transfer device.

4. The automated additive manufacturing production line of claim 1, wherein: It also includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system and the powder circulation system are connected by a transfer device.

5. The automated additive manufacturing production line of claim 1, wherein: The additive manufacturing system includes a molding cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the molding cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism for transferring molding cylinders between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is equipped with a pick-and-place device for picking up and placing the cylinder head of the molding cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is located below the printing device; the transfer station is connected to the transfer device.

6. The automated additive manufacturing production line of claim 5, wherein: The transfer mechanism includes a transfer track and a forming cylinder support; the forming cylinder support is slidably installed on the transfer track, and both the transfer station and the printing station are located within the stroke of the forming cylinder support.

7. An automated additive manufacturing method, characterized in that, The automated additive manufacturing production line based on any one of claims 1-6 includes the following steps: The powder circulation system delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system through powder pipelines; Additive manufacturing systems are used for product printing; After printing is complete, the transfer equipment receives the forming cylinder containing the product and transports the empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system for the next round of printing; The transfer equipment delivers the forming cylinder carrying the product to the powder cleaning system for cleaning, and then transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system through the powder pipeline. After the powder cleaning is completed, the transfer equipment will transport the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing steps.

8. The automated additive manufacturing method as described in claim 7, characterized in that: It also includes adjusting the operating routes of the transfer equipment between the powder circulation system, the powder cleaning system, and the additive manufacturing system through a central control system.

9. The automated additive manufacturing method as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The subsequent processing includes: a transfer device transports the molding cylinder to a molding cylinder preparation system, separates the printing substrate carrying the product from the molding cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate in the molding cylinder; the molding cylinder is then transported by the transfer device to an additive manufacturing system to await the next round of printing.

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

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