3D printing control method and apparatus, and 3D printing device

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a 3D printing control method, device and equipment, the method comprises the following steps: driving a printing platform of a 3D printing equipment to run to a limiting position, and determining whether the printing platform normally runs based on the detection state of the printing platform detected by a sensor arranged on the 3D printing equipment corresponding to the limiting position. According to the embodiment of the present application, the detection state of the printing platform detected by the sensor arranged on the 3D printing equipment corresponding to the limiting position can be used to quickly detect whether the printing platform normally runs, and the detection cost is low.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024119984947, filed with the Chinese Patent Office on December 31, 2024, entitled “3D Printing Control Method, Apparatus and 3D Printing Equipment”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the field of motor testing technology, and more particularly to 3D printing control methods, devices, and 3D printing equipment. Background Technology

[0003] For 3D (Three-Dimensional) printing equipment (such as 3D printers), foreign matter residue inside the cartridge can cause the motor driving the printing platform to stall. Stall detection of the motor is crucial for ensuring motor safety and stable operation, improving production efficiency, and optimizing equipment maintenance. Therefore, strengthening the detection of motor stall during motor use is essential to ensure the normal operation and stable performance of the motor.

[0004] In existing technologies, the detection of motor stall typically utilizes encoders or servo controllers. However, because 3D printers are relatively small and have limited internal space, while encoders or servo controllers are relatively large, they require significant internal space from the 3D printer, greatly reducing the utilization rate of the printer's internal space.

[0005] In addition, not only is the hardware cost of purchasing encoders or servo controllers high, but the installation, debugging, maintenance or upgrading of encoders or servo controllers also requires high human and material costs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention provides a 3D printing control method, apparatus and 3D printing equipment, which aims to solve the problems in the prior art that the installation of encoders or servo controllers reduces the utilization rate of the internal space of 3D printers and the cost of detecting foreign objects or stalling in motors is high.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a 3D printing control method, the method comprising:

[0008] The printing platform of the 3D printing equipment is driven to move to the limit position, and the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position determines whether the printing platform is operating normally.

[0009] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a 3D printing control device, including a unit for executing the 3D printing control method described in the first aspect.

[0010] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a 3D printing device, which includes a base, a material box, a printing platform, a drive assembly, a sensor, and a controller for performing the 3D printing control method as described in the first aspect above. The material box is disposed on the base and located between the base and the printing platform. The printing platform is drivenly connected to the drive assembly. The sensor is disposed on the base and located on one side of the material box. Both the drive assembly and the sensor are connected to the controller.

[0011] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the 3D printing control method described in the first aspect.

[0012] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, the computer program including program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, can implement the 3D printing control method described in the first aspect.

[0013] This invention provides a 3D printing control method, apparatus, and 3D printing equipment. The method includes: driving the printing platform of the 3D printing equipment to a limit position, and determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by a sensor set at the limit position on the 3D printing equipment. This invention allows for rapid detection of whether the printing platform is operating normally by using a sensor set at the limit position on the 3D printing equipment to detect the printing platform's status, and the detection cost is low. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the 3D printing control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 This is another schematic diagram of the 3D printing control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a sub-process of the 3D printing control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 4 This is another flowchart illustrating the 3D printing control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 5 A schematic block diagram of a 3D printing control device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 6 Another schematic block diagram of the 3D printing control device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 7 Another schematic block diagram of the 3D printing control device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 3D printing device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0024] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0025] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0026] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0027] Please also refer to Figure 1 and Figure 8 ,in Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the 3D printing control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 3D printing device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The 3D printing device includes a base 100, a material box (not shown), a controller (not shown), a drive assembly 200, a printing platform 300, and a sensor 400. The material box is disposed on the base 100 and located between the base 100 and the printing platform 300. The printing platform 300 is driveably connected to the drive assembly 200. The sensor 400 is disposed on the base 100 and located on one side of the material box. Both the drive assembly 200 and the sensor 400 are connected to the controller. Figure 1 As shown, the 3D printing control method provided in this embodiment of the invention includes the following steps S100:

[0028] S100: Drive the printing platform of the 3D printing equipment to move to the limit position, and determine whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position.

[0029] In this embodiment, the printing platform 300 in the 3D printing equipment can be driven to move from any position within its travel range, except for the limit position, as the initial directional limit position. The sensor 400 detects when the printing platform 300 reaches the limit position, and the resulting detection state determines whether the printing platform is operating normally. This method quickly determines whether the printing platform is operating normally, ensuring that the printing platform will not be damaged by violent impacts from foreign objects remaining in the material box, nor will it be damaged by obstruction of the printing platform, thus preventing damage to the drive components (such as the motor).

[0030] In some embodiments, prior to step S100, the 3D printing control method further includes the following steps:

[0031] The steps of obtaining a 3D printing command, that is, after detecting a 3D printing command, responding to the 3D printing command to execute the driving of the printing platform of the 3D printing device to move to the limit position, and determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing device at the corresponding limit position.

[0032] In some embodiments, after step S100, the 3D printing control method further includes the following steps:

[0033] After confirming that the printing platform is operating normally, the 3D printing device is driven to perform printing.

[0034] In this embodiment, once it is determined that the printing platform is operating normally, it means that the 3D printing equipment has started normally and the motor has not stalled. At this time, the 3D printing equipment can be driven normally to perform the corresponding 3D printing operation.

[0035] Conversely, if it is determined that the printing platform is not operating normally, printing will be canceled, the 3D printing equipment will stop operating, and the user can perform maintenance on the 3D printing equipment.

[0036] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, as a first embodiment of step S100, step S100 includes the following steps S110-S120.

[0037] S110. Drive the printing platform to move from the first initial position to the limit position according to the preset first current value.

[0038] In this embodiment, a sensor 400 (more specifically, a lower limit sensor) is provided at the limiting position (more specifically, the lower limit position) on the 3D printing equipment. The first current value is the current value of the motor in the drive assembly 200, preferably lower than the current value under normal operating conditions (e.g., the current value during actual printing). For example, for a 3D printing equipment with an operating voltage of 24V and a maximum power of 400W, assuming that the current value of the motor in the drive assembly 200 of the 3D printing equipment is 17A under normal operating conditions, the current value of the motor can be adjusted to 10A by the controller. At this time, since 10A is less than 17A, the current value of 10A is the first current value of the motor in the 3D printing equipment with an operating voltage of 24V and a maximum power of 400W.

[0039] Specifically, the drive component 200 can drive the printing platform 300 to move up and down, and the printing platform passes through the sensor 400 during the up and down movement. The sensor 400 is set with a corresponding limit position (such as the lower limit position). It can be understood that when the printing platform 300 runs to the limit position, the sensor 400 generates a signal output. When the printing platform 300 runs to the limit position, the controller acquires and judges the detection status of the sensor 400, which can realize the judgment of whether there are foreign objects in the material box.

[0040] The controller directs the motor to drive the printing platform to the limit position according to the first current value. The relatively small current value is set to avoid violent collisions between the printing platform and foreign objects in the ink cartridge, which could damage the ink cartridge, printing platform, and drive components. The detection status of sensor 400 can be used to determine whether the printing platform has reached the preset position as expected, thereby determining whether the printing platform is operating normally.

[0041] Sensor 400 is mounted on base 100 and located on one side of the material box. The controller is electrically connected to sensor 400. When the printing platform 300 moves to the limit position under the drive of the motor, the controller can obtain the detection status of sensor 400, which is also the occurrence of sensor 400 signals. The controller detects motor stall based on the detection status of sensor 400.

[0042] S120. Obtain the detection status of the sensor. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the first preset time, determine that the printing platform has run normally to the limit position. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the first preset time, determine that the printing platform has not run to the limit position.

[0043] In this embodiment, the time required for the printing platform 300 to run normally from the first initial position to the limit position according to the preset first current value should be a time setpoint. When the printing platform 300 runs to the limit position, the sensor 400 will generate a signal (e.g., from high level to low level or from low level to high level) and send it to the controller. If the controller fails to obtain the signal from the sensor 400 within the time limit (i.e., exceeding the normal time setpoint), it indicates that the printing platform is not running normally, such as if there are foreign objects in the material box that are obstructing the operation of the printing platform. If the controller normally receives the signal from the sensor 400 (i.e., the time when the controller obtains the signal from the sensor 400 is consistent with the normal time setpoint), it indicates that the motor has normally driven the printing platform 300 to run to the limit position. The time taken for the motor to drive the printing platform 300 to the limit position according to the first current value is obtained (the first time point of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor, and the second time point at which the printing platform starts moving from the first initial position to the limit position according to the first current value, the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is used to determine the running time), and the comparison result between the running time and the first preset time is obtained to determine whether the printing platform is operating normally. If the movement time is consistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has reached the limit position normally, indicating that the printing platform is operating normally and there are no foreign objects exceeding the limit position in the material box. If the running time is inconsistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not reached the limit position, indicating that the printing platform is not operating normally, there are foreign objects exceeding the limit position in the material box, and the motor is stalled due to the obstruction of the foreign objects. It should be noted that the first preset time is the time required for the printing platform 300 to move normally from the first initial position to the limit position according to the preset first current value. In addition to comparing by running time, comparison can also be made by running time points.

[0044] The above method fully utilizes the existing controller and sensor 400, eliminating the need for additional hardware devices (such as encoders or servo controllers). This not only saves on hardware costs but also reduces the complexity of the 3D printing equipment. Furthermore, since the sensor 400 does not occupy internal space in the 3D printing equipment, more internal capacity is available for optimizing the setup of other components, thereby improving the utilization rate of internal space.

[0045] It is evident that precise time measurement and a rigorous interval comparison mechanism can quickly and accurately determine whether the motor is operating normally during the initial descent phase, avoiding errors and uncertainties inherent in subjective human judgment. Recording detailed test data helps equipment maintenance personnel analyze motor performance trends during long-term equipment operation, identify potential problems early, and perform preventative maintenance. This reduces downtime caused by motor failures, improving production efficiency and overall equipment stability.

[0046] Furthermore, if it is determined that the printing platform has not reached its limit position (i.e., the printing platform is not operating normally, such as due to a stall), a message indicating that the printing platform cannot operate normally will be sent to the user terminal connected to the 3D printing equipment, and the 3D printing equipment may also terminate operation. After receiving the above message, the user terminal can quickly troubleshoot and repair the corresponding fault of the printing platform of the 3D printing equipment to shorten the downtime of the 3D printing equipment and reduce the impact on the overall production plan.

[0047] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the procedure following step S120 further includes:

[0048] S130. After the printing platform runs normally to the limit position, the printing platform is driven to move towards the target zero position at a first preset distance or a second preset time according to the preset second current value, and then the printing platform is driven to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to the preset third current value.

[0049] In this embodiment, once the printing platform reaches the limit position during normal operation, the first round of testing to determine whether the printing platform can operate normally ends, and the test result confirms that the printing platform can operate normally. Then, starting from the limit position, the printing platform is driven by a second current value to move towards the target zero position at a first preset distance or a second preset time. Afterward, the printing platform is driven to move back towards the limit position according to a preset third current value. The target zero position is located below the limit position.

[0050] In this design, both the second and third current values ​​refer to the current values ​​of the motor (i.e., the drive component). The second current value is preferably lower than the current value under normal motor operation, and more preferably equal to the first current value. The third current value is preferably the current value under normal motor operation, and more preferably higher than the second current value, and more preferably higher than the first current value, to improve operating efficiency. Of course, the first, second, and third current values ​​may or may not be equal. For example, for a 3D printing device with a working voltage of 24V and a maximum power of 400W, assuming the motor in this 3D printing device has a normal operating current of 17A, the controller can adjust the motor current to 10A. In this case, 10A is the second current value of the motor in the 3D printing device with a working voltage of 24V and a maximum power of 400W.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first initial position is any position within the travel of the printing platform other than the target zero position, that is, any position in the operating interval between the initial zero position and the target zero position (including the initial zero position but excluding the target zero position). The initial zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is furthest from the target zero position. The initial zero position to the target zero position constitutes the maximum travel of the printing platform. The target zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box. The first preset distance is the distance between the limit position and the target zero position, that is, the distance the printing platform travels from the limit position to the target zero position. The second preset time is the time required for the printing platform to travel from the limit position to the target zero position according to the preset second current value.

[0052] In this embodiment, the first initial position is any position between the initial zero position and the limit position within the stroke, including the initial zero position but excluding the limit position. Preferably, the first initial position is the initial zero position. The initial position where the printing platform in the 3D printing equipment initially stops when the equipment is turned on is generally the initial zero position (generally, when the previous 3D printing task of the 3D printing equipment ends, the printing platform will return to this initial zero position by default). It should be noted that the limit position is generally not higher than the limit height of the resin liquid in the cartridge, and the limit position is located between the limit height liquid level and the target zero position.

[0053] S140. Obtain the detection status of the sensor. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the third preset time, determine that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the third preset time, determine that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

[0054] In this embodiment, after the printing platform has reached the limit position during normal operation, a second round of detection can be performed to check whether the printing platform is operating normally. That is, the printing platform is first driven to move towards the target zero position at a first preset distance or a second preset time according to the second current value, and then the printing platform is driven to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to the preset third current value. In the second round of testing, the running time of the motor driving the printing platform 300 to reverse to the limit position according to the second current value can be obtained (for example, the third time point when the printing platform starts to reverse and the fourth time point when the sensor generates a signal when it reverses to the limit position are obtained, and the reverse running time is determined by the time interval between the fourth time point and the third time point), and the comparison result between the reverse running time and the third preset time is obtained to determine whether the printing platform is operating normally; wherein, if the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor is consistent with the third preset time (i.e., the reverse running time is consistent with the third preset time), it is determined that the printing platform is operating normally to the target zero position, there are no foreign objects in the material box, the printing platform is operating normally, and the drive component is operating normally (for example, the motor is not stalled); if the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor is inconsistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position, there are no foreign objects in the material box, the printing platform is blocked by foreign objects and has not operated normally to the target zero position, and the drive component is not operating normally (for example, the motor is stalled, etc.). It should be noted that the third preset time is the time required for the printing platform to move from the target zero position to the limit position according to the preset third current value. The comparison between the reverse running time and the third preset time can be a comparison of duration or a comparison of time points. It can be understood that the running time, running distance, and movement speed of the printing platform, as well as the running time, running distance, and movement speed of the drive component, are all related parameters and can be converted into each other. Therefore, the comparison of time can also be replaced by the comparison of other parameters. For example, when the drive component includes a motor, the normal operation of the printing platform can also be determined by comparing the number of steps the motor takes, that is, by comparing the number of steps the motor takes in reverse running with the number of steps required for the motor to drive the printing platform from the target zero position to the limit position (i.e., the preset number of steps). It should also be noted that the second current value is preferably lower than the current value under normal operating conditions to ensure that the printing platform will not be damaged by violent collisions caused by foreign objects remaining in the material box during its movement towards the target zero position. As a further preferred embodiment, the second current value is equal to the first current value. The third current value is preferably the current value under normal operating conditions of the printing platform. The third current value is preferably higher than the second current value, and even more preferably higher than the first current value, in order to improve operating efficiency. Of course, the first current value, the second current value, and the third current value may be equal or unequal.

[0055] As can be seen, after obtaining the first detection result through the first round of detection in steps S110-S120 and the second detection result through the second round of detection in steps S130-S140, the operating status of the motor can be more comprehensively and accurately judged based on the first and second detection results. This enables the detection of foreign objects of different sizes remaining in the material box without causing damage to the material box, printing platform, and drive components due to violent collisions caused by foreign object residue. Furthermore, by performing a stall detection on the motor before formal printing, printing interruptions due to foreign object residue in the material box are avoided, ensuring normal printing operation, improving printing efficiency, and reducing printing costs. Similarly, if the second detection result is a stall result, a stall warning message will be issued, and the 3D printing equipment can stop operation for troubleshooting and repair.

[0056] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, as a second embodiment of step S100, step S100 includes the following embodiments:

[0057] S101. Drive the printing platform to move from the second initial position to the target zero position at a second preset distance or a fourth preset time according to the preset fourth current value, and then drive the printing platform to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to the preset fifth current value.

[0058] S102. Obtain the detection status of the sensor. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the fifth preset time, determine that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the fifth preset time, determine that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

[0059] In some embodiments, the second initial position is any position in the travel of the printing platform other than the target zero position, that is, any position between the initial zero position and the target zero position within the travel of the printing platform, including the initial zero position but excluding the target zero position, preferably any position between the limiting position and the target zero position, including the limiting position but excluding the target zero position. The initial zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is furthest from the target zero position, and the target zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box. The second preset distance is the distance between the second initial position and the target zero position. It should be noted that the limiting position is generally not higher than the resin liquid level limit of the material box.

[0060] In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment of step S100 is that in the second embodiment of step S100, the starting running position of the printing platform starts from the second initial position. The second initial position can be different from the position of the first initial position or the same as the position of the first initial position. More specifically, the second initial position is any position within the travel of the printing platform except for the target zero position. The second initial position can belong to any position within the interval from the first initial position to the limit position (including the first initial position and the limit position), or it can belong to any position within the interval from the limit position to the target zero position (including the limit position but excluding the target zero position).

[0061] When the printing platform is driven to move from the second initial position to the target zero position at a second preset distance or a fourth preset time according to the fourth current value (which may be equal to or different from the first and second current values, but preferably lower than the current value under normal printing conditions of the 3D printing equipment), and then driven to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to the preset fifth current value (which may be equal to or different from the third current value, but preferably equal to the current value under normal printing conditions of the 3D printing equipment), the sensor 400 will generate a signal (e.g., from high level to low level or from low level to high level). The controller will monitor the signal status of the sensor 400 in real time. If the controller receives the signal change of the sensor 400 normally, it indicates that the motor can normally drive the printing platform 300 to the limit position. The system acquires the running time of the printing platform 300 driven by the motor to reverse to the limit position according to the fifth current value (acquiring the fifth time point of the sensor's detection signal and the sixth time point at which the printing platform starts to reverse according to the fifth current value; the running time is determined by the time interval between the fifth and sixth time points). The system then compares this running time with a fifth preset time to determine whether the printing platform is operating normally. The fifth preset time is the time required for the printing platform to move from the target zero position to the limit position according to the preset fifth current value. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has operated normally to the target zero position, and there are no residual foreign objects in the material box, indicating that the printing platform is operating normally and is not obstructed. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not moved to the target zero position, and the printing platform is obstructed by foreign objects and is not operating normally (such as motor stall). The comparison between the reverse running time and the fifth preset time can be a comparison of duration or a comparison of time points. It can be understood that the running time, running distance, and movement speed of the printing platform, as well as the running time, running distance, and movement speed of the drive component, are all related parameters that can be converted into each other. Therefore, the comparison of time can also be replaced by the comparison of other parameters. For example, when the drive component includes a motor, the normal operation of the printing platform can also be determined by comparing the number of steps the motor takes. That is, the number of steps the motor takes in reverse running is compared with the number of steps required for the motor to drive the printing platform from the target zero position to the limit position (i.e., the preset number of steps).

[0062] The above method fully utilizes the existing controller and sensor 400, eliminating the need for additional hardware devices (such as encoders or servo controllers). This not only saves on hardware costs but also reduces the complexity of the 3D printing equipment. Furthermore, since the sensor 400 does not occupy internal space in the 3D printing equipment, more internal capacity is available for optimizing the setup of other components, thereby improving the utilization rate of internal space.

[0063] Figure 5 This is a schematic block diagram of the 3D printing control device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 5 As shown, corresponding to the above 3D printing control method, the present invention also provides a 3D printing control device 1000. This 3D printing control device 1000 includes a unit for executing the above 3D printing control method. Specifically, the printing control device 1000 includes a printing platform detection unit 100.

[0064] The printing platform detection unit 100 is used to drive the printing platform of the 3D printing equipment to move to the limit position, and to determine whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position.

[0065] In some embodiments, the 3D printing control device 1000 further includes:

[0066] A printing instruction detection unit is used to respond to a 3D printing instruction if a 3D printing instruction is detected, and to execute the step of driving the printing platform of the 3D printing device to move to a limit position, and determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing device at the corresponding limit position.

[0067] In some embodiments, the 3D printing control device 1000 further includes:

[0068] The printing task control unit is used to drive the 3D printing device to perform printing after determining that the printing platform is operating normally.

[0069] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 As a first embodiment of the printing platform detection unit 100, the printing platform detection unit 100 includes a first driving unit 110 and a first detection unit 120, wherein:

[0070] The first driving unit 110 is used to drive the printing platform to move from the first initial position to the limit position according to a preset first current value;

[0071] The first detection unit 120 acquires the detection status of the sensor. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is consistent with a first preset time, it determines that the printing platform has reached the limit position normally. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the first preset time, it determines that the printing platform has not reached the limit position.

[0072] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the 3D printing control device 1000 further includes a second drive unit 130 and a second detection unit 140, wherein:

[0073] The second drive unit 130 is used to drive the printing platform to move towards the target zero position by a first preset distance or a second preset time according to a preset second current value after the printing platform has been running normally to the limit position, and then drive the printing platform to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to a preset third current value.

[0074] The second detection unit 140 is used to acquire the detection status of the sensor. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first initial position is any position in the travel of the printing platform other than the target zero position, the target zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box, and the first preset distance is the distance between the limiting position and the target zero position.

[0076] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 7 As a second embodiment of the printing platform detection unit 100, the printing platform detection unit 100 includes a third driving unit 101 and a third detection unit 102, wherein:

[0077] The third driving unit 101 is used to drive the printing platform to move from the second initial position to the target zero position at a second preset distance or a fourth preset time according to a preset fourth current value, and then drive the printing platform to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to a preset fifth current value.

[0078] The third detection unit 102 is used to acquire the detection status of the sensor. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of acquiring the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second initial position is any position in the travel of the printing platform other than the target zero position, the target zero position is the position of the 3D printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box, and the second preset distance is the distance between the second initial position and the target zero position.

[0080] It should be noted that those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the specific implementation process of the above-mentioned 3D printing control device and each unit can be referred to the corresponding description in the foregoing method embodiments. For the sake of convenience and brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0081] like Figure 8As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a 3D printing device, which includes a base 100, a material box, a drive assembly 200, a printing platform 300, a sensor 400, and a controller; the material box is disposed on the base 100 and located between the base 100 and the printing platform 300, the printing platform 300 is connected to the drive assembly 200, the sensor 400 is disposed on the base 100 and located on one side of the material box, and both the drive assembly 200 and the sensor 400 are connected to the controller.

[0082] In this embodiment, the printing platform 300 in the 3D printing equipment can be driven to move from any position within its travel range, except for the limit position, as the initial directional limit position. The sensor 400 detects when the printing platform 300 reaches the limit position, and the resulting detection state determines whether the printing platform 300 is operating normally. This method quickly determines whether the printing platform 300 is operating normally, ensuring that the printing platform 300 will not be damaged by violent impacts from foreign objects remaining in the material box, nor will it be damaged by obstruction of the driving component 200 (such as a motor).

[0083] Specifically, since the drive assembly 200 is connected to the controller (not shown in the figure), the controller can control the motor in the drive assembly 200 to turn on and off, control the current, and send corresponding control commands to the drive assembly 200. When the printing platform 300 needs to rise or fall, the controller will send a corresponding signal to the drive assembly 200 according to a pre-set program or user operation command. After receiving the signal, the drive assembly 200 will drive the motor to rotate in the required direction (forward or reverse) to drive the lifting printing platform 300 to rise or fall.

[0084] When the 3D printing equipment executes the 3D printing control method to check whether the motor is stalled, the specific process is as follows:

[0085] The printing platform 300 of the 3D printing equipment is driven to move to the limit position. The sensor 400 set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position detects the status of the printing platform 300 to determine whether the printing platform 300 is operating normally.

[0086] The more specific process is as follows:

[0087] The printing platform 300 is driven to move from the first initial position to the limit position according to the preset first current value;

[0088] The detection status of the sensor 400 is obtained. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor 400 is consistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform 300 has run normally to the limit position. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor 400 is inconsistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform 300 has not run to the limit position.

[0089] The above-described testing process for the printing platform 500 is considered the first round of testing. A second round of testing can then be performed, as detailed below:

[0090] After the printing platform 300 operates normally to the limit position, it is driven to move towards the target zero position by a first preset distance or a second preset time according to the preset second current value. Then, it is driven to move back to the limit position according to the preset third current value.

[0091] The detection status of the sensor 400 is obtained. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor 400 is consistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform 300 has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor is inconsistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform 300 has not run to the target zero position.

[0092] This invention provides a 3D printing control method, apparatus, and 3D printing equipment. The method includes: driving the printing platform of the 3D printing equipment to a limit position, and determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by a sensor set at the limit position on the 3D printing equipment. This invention allows for rapid detection of whether the printing platform is operating normally by using a sensor set at the limit position on the 3D printing equipment to detect the printing platform's status, and the detection cost is low.

[0093] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A 3D printing control method, characterized in that, The methods include: The printing platform of the 3D printing equipment is driven to move to the limit position, and the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position determines whether the printing platform is operating normally; The 3D printing equipment drives the printing platform to a limit position. The system determines whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the sensor located at the corresponding limit position on the 3D printing equipment, including: After the printing platform reaches the limit position normally, it is driven to move towards the target zero position by a first preset distance or a second preset time according to a preset second current value. Then, it is driven to move back towards the limit position according to a preset third current value. The detection status of the sensor is obtained. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor is consistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of obtaining the detection signal of the sensor is inconsistent with the third preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

2. The 3D printing control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Any position between the initial zero position and the limit position within the stroke of the printing platform is recorded as the first initial position. The initial zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is furthest from the target zero position. The target zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box. The first preset distance is the distance between the limit position and the target zero position.

3. A 3D printing control method, characterized in that, The methods include: The printing platform of the 3D printing equipment is driven to move to the limit position, and the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position determines whether the printing platform is operating normally; The 3D printing equipment drives the printing platform to a limit position. The system determines whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the sensor located at the corresponding limit position on the 3D printing equipment, including: The printing platform is driven to move from the second initial position to the target zero position at a second preset distance or a fourth preset time according to a preset fourth current value, and then the printing platform is driven to move in the opposite direction to the limit position according to a preset fifth current value. The detection status of the sensor is obtained. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has run normally to the target zero position. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the fifth preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the target zero position.

4. The 3D printing control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second initial position is any position between the initial zero position and the target zero position within the travel of the printing platform. The initial zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is furthest from the target zero position. The target zero position is the position of the printing platform when it is in contact with the bottom surface of the material box. The second preset distance is the distance between the second initial position and the target zero position.

5. The 3D printing control method according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The 3D printing equipment drives the printing platform to a limit position. The system determines whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the sensor located at the corresponding limit position on the 3D printing equipment, including: The printing platform is driven to move from the first initial position to the limit position according to a preset first current value; The detection status of the sensor is obtained. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is consistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has run normally to the limit position. If the time of obtaining the sensor's detection signal is inconsistent with the first preset time, it is determined that the printing platform has not run to the limit position.

6. The 3D printing control method according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, Before the step of determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by a sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position, the method further includes: The steps include: acquiring a 3D printing instruction, responding to the 3D printing instruction to execute the driving of the 3D printing equipment to move the printing platform to a limit position, and determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by the sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position.

7. The 3D printing control method according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, After the step of determining whether the printing platform is operating normally based on the detection status of the printing platform by a sensor set on the 3D printing equipment at the corresponding limit position as the printing platform moves to the limit position, the method further includes: After confirming that the printing platform is operating normally, the 3D printing device is driven to perform printing.

8. A 3D printing control device, characterized in that, It includes a unit for performing the 3D printing control method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. A 3D printing device, characterized in that, The device includes a base, a material box, a printing platform, a drive assembly, a sensor, and a controller for performing the 3D printing control method as described in any one of claims 1-7. The material box is disposed on the base and located between the base and the printing platform. The printing platform is drively connected to the drive assembly. The sensor is disposed on the base and located on one side of the material box. Both the drive assembly and the sensor are connected to the controller.

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