A non-contact printhead height calibration device, method and equipment

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of printhead calibration technology, and discloses a non-contact printhead height calibration device, method, and equipment. The device includes: a projection measurement module, comprising a calibration reference block, a parallel light emitter, and a parallel light receiver, which determines the position information of the calibration reference block and the printhead ejection end within the parallel light based on information about the parallel light being blocked; a calibration module, used to measure the height value of the calibration reference block as the calibration height; and a controller, used to acquire a cutoff height, and determine the distance between the printhead ejection end and the printhead mounting end based on the position information of the printhead ejection end and the calibration reference block within the parallel light, the cutoff height, and the calibration height. This invention utilizes the blocking of parallel light by the calibration reference block and the printhead, determines the height difference based on the information about the blocking of parallel light, and combines this with the calibration height to calibrate the printhead height. There is no mechanical contact, reducing printhead damage caused by mechanical contact, lowering maintenance costs, and improving calibration efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printhead calibration technology, specifically to a non-contact printhead height calibration device, method, and equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In 3D printing, dispensing, and machining applications, tiny working heads such as print heads, dispensing heads, and micro-cutting heads are frequently used. These tiny working heads have a short lifespan and require frequent replacement. After each replacement, the initial position of the working head needs to be calibrated spatially. A common calibration method is contact calibration, where the working head moves continuously until it touches a surface and applies force. At this point, a sensor on the contact surface is triggered, generating a feedback signal that stops the working head. The print head's position is then determined based on the distance traveled and the location of the contacted surface. While contact calibration is accurate and relatively simple, it places certain demands on the hardness and strength of the working head. For tiny, fragile precision print heads, contact calibration can easily damage the print head during calibration: the print head moves to the contact surface and applies force, but before reaching the sensor's trigger threshold, the continued movement causes the interaction force to exceed the print head's tolerance, leading to breakage. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the present invention provides a non-contact printhead height calibration device, method and equipment to solve the problem that precision printheads are easily damaged during contact calibration.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a non-contact printhead height calibration device, the device comprising: a projection measurement module, a calibration module, and a controller, wherein...

[0005] The projection measurement module includes a calibration reference block, a parallel light emitter, and a parallel light receiver. The parallel light emitter and the parallel light receiver are placed parallel to each other at a preset distance. The parallel light emitter is used to emit parallel light, and the parallel light receiver is used to receive parallel light. The parallel light is blocked by the calibration reference block and the print head output end. The position information of the calibration reference block and the print head output end within the parallel light is determined based on the information of the parallel light being blocked.

[0006] The calibration module is used to measure the height of the calibration reference block as the calibration height.

[0007] The controller is used to obtain the cutoff height. Based on the position information of the printhead ejection end and the calibration reference block in the parallel light, the cutoff height, and the calibration height, the controller determines the distance between the printhead ejection end and the printhead mounting end, thereby calibrating the height of the printhead. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead ejection end enters the parallel light range and blocks the parallel light.

[0008] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided by this invention utilizes a calibration reference block and the printhead to block parallel light. Based on the information of the blocked parallel light, the position information of the calibration reference block and the printhead discharge end is determined. Combined with the calibration height, the printhead height is calibrated. This eliminates the need for the printhead to contact the calibration reference block, reducing printhead damage caused by mechanical contact, lowering maintenance costs, and improving calibration efficiency.

[0009] In an alternative implementation, the controller is also used to control the movement of the projection measurement module and / or calibration module, adjusting their relative positions in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block is within the measurement range of the calibration module.

[0010] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided by this invention moves in the horizontal plane through a projection measurement module and / or calibration module, making the relative position adjustment more flexible and able to meet the needs of different scenarios.

[0011] In one optional implementation, the projection measurement module further includes a fixing bracket for fixing the calibration reference block, the parallel light emitter, and the parallel light receiver in their respective preset positions.

[0012] The calibration reference block includes a calibration platform and a calibration block support.

[0013] The calibration platform is used to block parallel light;

[0014] The calibration block support is used to support the calibration platform.

[0015] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided by this invention has a relatively fixed position of the projection measurement module, which ensures the effectiveness and accuracy of printhead height calibration, avoids damage to the printhead or other equipment due to movement of the projection measurement module, and improves the safety of the printhead height calibration process.

[0016] In one alternative implementation, the calibration module includes:

[0017] The height sensor is used to measure the height of the calibration reference block as the calibration height.

[0018] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided by this invention uses a height sensor to measure the height of the calibration reference block. The measurement method is simple and the measurement results are accurate. When measuring the height of the calibration table, there is no need to contact the calibration table, avoiding equipment damage caused by mechanical contact and reducing maintenance costs.

[0019] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a non-contact printhead height calibration method, the method being applied to any of the non-contact printhead height calibration devices of the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0020] Obtain the cutoff height of the printhead and the information on the obstruction of the parallel light by the printhead output end and the calibration reference block at the cutoff height. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead output end enters the parallel light range and obstructs the parallel light.

[0021] The position information of the printhead output end and the position information of the calibration reference block are determined based on the obstruction information.

[0022] Determine the height difference between the printhead output end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block based on the position information of the printhead output end and the position information of the calibration reference block.

[0023] The calibration height is obtained, and based on the height difference, cutoff height, and calibration height, the distance between the printhead output end and the printhead mounting end is determined, thereby calibrating the printhead height.

[0024] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided by this invention utilizes a calibration reference block and the printhead to block parallel light. Based on the information of the blocked parallel light, the position information of the calibration reference block and the printhead output end is determined. Combined with the calibration height, the printhead height is calibrated. This eliminates the need for the printhead to contact the calibration reference block, reducing printhead damage caused by mechanical contact, lowering maintenance costs, and improving calibration efficiency.

[0025] In one alternative implementation, the method further includes:

[0026] The printhead is controlled to descend from the initial height to the safe height at a first preset speed. The initial height is the height of the printhead mounting end when the printhead is at the preset starting position. The safe height is the height of the printhead mounting end when the height difference between the printhead discharge end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block is greater than a preset threshold.

[0027] The printhead is controlled to descend from the safe height to the cutoff height at a second preset speed, which is less than the first preset speed.

[0028] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided by this invention controls the printhead to descend at two different speeds during the height calibration process, ensuring the calibration speed while avoiding safety issues caused by the printhead descending too quickly, thereby improving safety.

[0029] In one alternative implementation, obtaining the calibration height includes:

[0030] Move the calibration module and / or calibration reference block in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block is within the measurement range of the calibration module;

[0031] The calibration height is determined by measuring the height of the calibration reference block using the calibration module.

[0032] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided by this invention determines the height of the calibration reference block as the calibration height in a non-contact manner, resulting in more accurate calibration height and more flexible movement of the calibration module and calibration module, which can meet the needs of different scenarios.

[0033] In one alternative implementation, the printhead includes multiple printheads of different lengths, and when the longest printhead reaches the safe height, the height difference between the printhead outlet end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block is greater than 0.

[0034] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided by this invention is applicable to printheads of various lengths, thus having a wider range of applications. For the longest printhead, when it is in a safe position, it will not come into contact with the calibration reference block, avoiding collision damage and improving the safety of printhead height calibration.

[0035] Thirdly, the present invention provides a computer device, comprising: a memory and a processor, the memory and the processor being communicatively connected to each other, the memory storing computer instructions, and the processor executing the computer instructions to perform the method described in the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment thereof.

[0036] Fourthly, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the method described in the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a non-contact printhead height calibration device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of another non-contact printhead height calibration device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing printheads of different lengths.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the measurement and calibration height in a non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the descent of the printhead from its initial height to a safe height in a non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the printhead entering the parallel light projection field of view in the non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a computer device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, 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 embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. 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.

[0047] This invention provides a non-contact printhead height calibration device, method, and apparatus. By using a calibration reference block and the printhead to block parallel light, the height of the printhead is calibrated based on the information of the blocked parallel light and the calibration height, thereby achieving the effect of printhead height calibration through a non-contact method.

[0048] According to embodiments of the present invention, a non-contact printhead height calibration device is provided, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the device includes: a projection measurement module 1, a calibration module 2, and a controller 3.

[0049] like Figure 1As shown, the projection measurement module 1 includes a calibration reference block 11, a parallel light emitter 12, and a parallel light receiver 13. The parallel light emitter 12 and the parallel light receiver 13 are placed parallel to each other at a preset distance. The parallel light emitter 12 is used to emit parallel light, and the parallel light receiver 13 is used to receive parallel light. The parallel light is blocked by the calibration reference block 11 and the print head output end. The position information of the calibration reference block 11 and the print head output end within the parallel light is determined based on the information of the parallel light being blocked.

[0050] Specifically, the projection measurement module 1 can be fixed in a preset position within the printing plane of the 3D printer, but the projection measurement module 1 cannot be in the printing area and cannot affect normal printing. Alternatively, when the print head needs to be calibrated, the projection measurement module 1 can be manually placed in a preset position within the printing plane of the 3D printer, but the position of the projection measurement module 1 remains fixed throughout the calibration process.

[0051] The parallel light emitter 12 in the projection measurement module 1 emits parallel light rays of a preset area, and the parallel light receiver 13 receives parallel light rays of a corresponding preset area. The two are placed parallel to each other at a preset distance. When an object (made of a material impermeable to parallel light rays) enters the parallel light ray, the parallel light is blocked. The parallel light receiver 13 cannot receive the full area of ​​parallel light rays emitted by the parallel light emitter 12, thus determining the object's outline projection under the parallel light. Based on the outline projection, the blocked area of ​​the parallel light is determined, thereby determining the object's size. An optimal measurement range exists between the parallel light emitter 12 and the parallel light receiver 13. During calibration, the blocking object (e.g., calibration reference block 11) can be placed within this optimal measurement range to ensure the accuracy of the printhead calibration. The optimal measurement range can be the midpoint between the parallel light emitter 12 and the parallel light receiver 13, or the midpoint of the parallel light ray; this is merely an example and not a limitation.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, calibration module 2 is used to measure the height value of calibration reference block 11 as the calibration height.

[0053] Specifically, the calibration module 2 can be fixedly installed in the print head mounting position of the 3D printing equipment, located above the projection calibration module 2. The position can be adjusted so that the calibration module 2 is directly above the calibration reference block 11, so that the calibration reference block 11 is within the measurement range of the calibration module 2, and the height value of the measured calibration reference block 11 is used as the calibration height.

[0054] like Figure 1As shown, controller 3 is used to obtain the cutoff height. Based on the position information of the printhead output end and the calibration reference block 11 in the parallel light, the cutoff height, and the calibration height, it determines the distance between the printhead output end and the printhead mounting end, thereby calibrating the height of the printhead. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead output end enters the parallel light range and blocks the parallel light.

[0055] Specifically, the controller 3 is communicatively connected to the projection measurement module 1, the calibration module 2, and the 3D printer to be calibrated, respectively, to obtain relevant data from the projection measurement module 1, the calibration module 2, and the 3D printer to be calibrated, including: the cutoff height when the print head of the 3D printer to be calibrated moves to the calibration position, the information of the print head output end and the calibration reference block 11 in parallel light, and the calibration height measured by the calibration module 2.

[0056] The controller 3 uses the acquired data to perform calculations and processes the data to obtain the distance between the print head ejection end and the print head mounting end. This distance is then transmitted as the print head length to the 3D printer to be calibrated, thereby calibrating the print head height.

[0057] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided in this embodiment utilizes the calibration reference block 11 and the printhead to block parallel light. Based on the information of the parallel light being blocked, the position information of the calibration reference block 11 and the printhead discharge end is determined. Combined with the calibration height, the printhead height is calibrated. There is no need for the printhead to contact the calibration reference block 11, which reduces printhead damage caused by mechanical contact, lowers maintenance costs, and improves calibration efficiency.

[0058] In some optional implementations, the controller 3 is also used to control the movement of the projection measurement module 1 and / or the calibration module 2, adjusting their relative positions in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block 11 is within the measurement range of the calibration module 2.

[0059] Specifically, 3D printers typically need to set a printing coordinate system to accurately determine the printing position. With the xy-axis of the 3D printer's printing coordinate system as the horizontal plane, the calibration module 2 and the projection measurement module 1 can move relative to each other in the xy-axis direction of the horizontal plane to adjust their relative positions within the horizontal plane, ensuring that the calibration reference block 11 is within the measurement range of the calibration module 2. Generally, the measurement range of the calibration module 2 is within a preset range directly below the calibration module 2, which is only an example and is not a limitation.

[0060] At least one of the calibration module 2 and the projection measurement module 1 is fixed on an axis that can move in the x and y directions; or the calibration module 2 can move in the x direction and the projection measurement module 1 can move in the y direction, or the calibration module 2 can move in the y direction and the projection measurement module 1 can move in the x direction. In practical applications, the calibration module 2 can be mounted on the printhead mounting axis of the 3D printing equipment, eliminating the need for a separate moving axis. The printhead mounting axis used by the calibration module 2 and the printhead mounting axis to be calibrated can be different axes or the same axis; this is just an example and is not a limitation.

[0061] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided in this embodiment moves in the horizontal plane through the projection measurement module 1 and / or calibration module 2, making the relative position adjustment more flexible and able to meet the needs of different scenarios.

[0062] In some alternative implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, the projection measurement module 1 further includes: a fixed bracket 14 for fixing the calibration reference block 11, the parallel light emitter 12, and the parallel light receiver 13 in their respective preset positions; the calibration reference block 11 includes a calibration platform and a calibration block bracket; the calibration platform is used to block the parallel light; and the calibration block bracket is used to support the calibration platform.

[0063] Specifically, the parallel light emitter 12 and the parallel light receiver 13 are fixed parallel to each other at both ends of the fixed bracket 14, and the calibration reference block 11 is fixed in the middle position of the fixed bracket 14. The calibration platform is partially or completely within the parallel light range.

[0064] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided in this embodiment has a relatively fixed position for the projection measurement module 1, which ensures the effectiveness and accuracy of printhead height calibration, avoids damage to the printhead or other equipment due to movement of the projection measurement module 1, and improves the safety of the printhead height calibration process.

[0065] In some alternative implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, calibration module 2 includes:

[0066] The height sensor is used to measure the height value of the calibration reference block 11 as the calibration height.

[0067] Specifically, the height sensor can be a laser rangefinder or an ultrasonic rangefinder. First, the first distance from the height sensor to the horizontal plane where the projection measurement module 1 is located can be measured, and then the second distance from the height sensor to the upper surface of the reference calibration block can be measured. The difference between the first distance and the second distance is used as the height of the calibration reference block 11, i.e. the calibration height. This is just an example, but it is not limited to this.

[0068] The non-contact printhead height calibration device provided in this embodiment uses a height sensor to measure the height of the calibration reference block 11. The measurement method is simple and the measurement results are accurate. When measuring the height of the calibration table, there is no need to contact the calibration table, avoiding equipment damage caused by mechanical contact and reducing maintenance costs.

[0069] According to the present invention, an embodiment of a non-contact printhead height calibration method is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0070] This embodiment provides a non-contact printhead height calibration method, which can be used in the aforementioned computer system or non-contact printhead height calibration device. Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a non-contact printhead height calibration method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0071] Step S101: Obtain the cutoff height of the printhead and the information on the obstruction of the parallel light by the printhead output end and the calibration reference block 11 at the cutoff height. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead output end enters the parallel light range and obstructs the parallel light.

[0072] Specifically, when the printhead ejection end enters the parallel light range and blocks the parallel light, the height value of the printhead mounting end is obtained as the cutoff height H2. Information on the obstruction of the parallel light by the printhead ejection end and the calibration reference block 11 at the cutoff height is obtained. To ensure measurement accuracy, the length of the parallel light obstructed by the printhead ejection end can be one-third to one-half of the parallel light field of view; this is merely an example and not a limitation.

[0073] Step S102: Determine the position information of the printhead output end and the position information of the calibration reference block 11 based on the obstruction information.

[0074] Specifically, the printhead and the calibration reference block 11 simultaneously block the parallel light. Based on the information about the blocking of the parallel light, the position information of the printhead's output end and the position information of the calibration reference block can be determined. For example, taking the printing horizontal plane as a reference, the height range of the parallel light is 1mm to 10mm. After being blocked, the vertical length of the area of ​​the parallel light blocked by the printhead is 3.5mm, and the vertical length of the area of ​​the parallel light blocked by the calibration reference block 11 is 3mm. Therefore, it can be determined that the height of the printhead's output end from the reference plane of the projection measurement module is 6.5mm, and the height difference between the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 and the reference plane of the projection measurement module is 4mm. This is just an example, but it is not a limitation.

[0075] Step S103: Determine the height difference between the printhead output end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 based on the position information of the printhead output end and the position information of the calibration reference block 11.

[0076] Specifically, the position information of the printhead ejection end and the position information of the calibration reference block 11 are both determined based on the occlusion information of the parallel light. Therefore, the height difference between the printhead ejection end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 can be calculated based on the projection information of the printhead ejection end and the calibration reference block 11 in the parallel light. For example, in step S102, since the printhead starts to block the parallel light from the upper line of the parallel light range, and the calibration reference block 11 starts to block the parallel light from the lower line of the parallel light range, the vertical length of the area of ​​the parallel light blocked by the printhead is 3.5mm, and the vertical length of the area of ​​the parallel light blocked by the calibration reference block 11 is 3.0mm. Therefore, the height difference between the printhead ejection end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 can be determined as s = 9.0mm - 3.5mm - 3.0mm = 2.5mm. This is only an example and is not a limitation.

[0077] Step S104: Obtain the calibration height, and determine the distance between the printhead output end and the printhead mounting end based on the height difference, cutoff height, and calibration height, thereby calibrating the printhead height.

[0078] Specifically, the height value of the calibration reference block 11 is obtained by the height sensor as the calibration height h, and the distance between the print head discharge end and the print head mounting end is determined according to the height difference s, the cutoff height H2 and the calibration height h, which is used as the 0 position height of the print head with the height of the height sensor of the calibration module 2 as the reference. The 0 position height = cutoff height H2 - height difference s - calibration height h.

[0079] It should be noted that all height values ​​in this embodiment are based on measurements taken by a height sensor. The height sensor used in the calibration module is the same as the one used during actual printing to ensure that the reference height is the same. For the print head, the 0-position height represents the height position of the print head mounting end when the print head ejection end contacts the surface of an object, at which point the height sensor measures a reading of 0 (the internal reading of the 3D printer is 0). After obtaining the 0-position height, before actual sample printing, the height of the sample surface to be printed needs to be measured using a height sensor. Based on the height sensor measurement, the difference between the height position of the sample surface and the 0-position height is obtained. Furthermore, by controlling the height of the print head mounting end, the print head ejection end can be accurately controlled to descend to a preset height position relative to the surface of the object to be printed. For example, during actual printing, when the height sensor measures a reading of 0 on the sample surface, the corresponding 0-position height of the print head is the height at which the print head ejection end just contacts the surface. Assume the mechanical height of the print head mounting end corresponding to the 0-position height is 50mm.

[0080] When the height sensor measures a value of 0.1mm on the sample to be printed, the print head needs to be 0.1mm higher than its zero position, with the print head just touching the sample surface. The corresponding mechanical height of the mounting end is 50.1mm. When the height sensor measures a value of -0.5mm on the sample to be printed, the print head needs to be 0.5mm lower than its zero position, with the print head's output end just touching the sample surface. The corresponding mechanical height of the mounting end is 49.5mm. These are just examples and are not absolute. It should be noted that the positive and negative values ​​here correspond to raising or lowering the print head, and can be customized at the software level.

[0081] This embodiment implements height calibration, which can be understood as calibration in the z-direction. Calibration in the x and y directions can be achieved using existing methods that can calibrate the printhead in the x and y directions. The specific implementation method is not limited.

[0082] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided in this embodiment utilizes the calibration reference block 11 and the printhead to block parallel light. Based on the information of the parallel light being blocked, the position information of the calibration reference block 11 and the printhead discharge end is determined. Combined with the calibration height, the printhead height is calibrated. There is no need for the printhead to contact the calibration reference block 11, which reduces printhead damage caused by mechanical contact, lowers maintenance costs, and improves calibration efficiency.

[0083] In some alternative implementations, the method further includes:

[0084] The printhead is controlled to descend from the initial height to the safe height at a first preset speed. The initial height is the height of the printhead mounting end when the printhead is at the preset starting position, and the safe height is the height of the printhead mounting end when the height difference between the printhead discharge end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 is greater than a preset threshold.

[0085] The printhead is controlled to descend from the safe height to the cutoff height at a second preset speed, which is less than the first preset speed.

[0086] Specifically, considering the actual situation, the initial position of the print head is usually directly above the printing area. Therefore, during calibration, the print head needs to descend from the initial height H0 to the cutoff height. To avoid collisions, a safety height H1 between the initial height H0 and the cutoff height H2 can be manually selected or set. The specific vertical height of the safety height can be determined according to the actual situation. It is necessary to ensure that when the print head is at the safety height, the print head output end has entered the parallel light range, and the print head output end will not collide with the calibration reference block 11. The preset threshold is set according to the actual situation. For example, it can be set as the distance between the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 and the upper line of the parallel light range. This is just an example, but it is not a limitation.

[0087] To reduce calibration time, the printhead is controlled to descend from the initial height H0 to the safe height H1 at a relatively fast speed. Then, to ensure safety, the printhead is controlled to descend from the safe height H1 to H2 at a slower speed. In case of printhead trajectory error, the printhead can be manually controlled to stop in an emergency to avoid damage to the printhead.

[0088] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided in this embodiment controls the printhead to descend at two different speeds during the height calibration process. This ensures the calibration speed while avoiding safety issues caused by the printhead descending too quickly, thus improving safety.

[0089] In some alternative implementations, obtaining the calibration height includes:

[0090] Step a1: Move the calibration module 2 and / or the calibration reference block 11 in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block 11 is within the measurement range of the calibration module 2.

[0091] Step a2: Use calibration module 2 to measure the height value of calibration reference block 11 as the calibration height.

[0092] Specifically, 3D printers typically need to set a printing coordinate system to accurately determine the printing position. With the xy-axis of the 3D printer's printing coordinate system as the horizontal plane, the calibration module 2 and the projection measurement module 1 can move relative to each other in the xy-axis direction of the horizontal plane to adjust their relative positions within the horizontal plane, ensuring that the calibration reference block 11 is within the measurement range of the calibration module 2. Generally, the measurement range of the calibration module 2 is within a preset range directly below the calibration module 2, which is only an example and is not a limitation.

[0093] At least one of the calibration module 2 and the projection measurement module 1 is fixed on an axis that can move in the x and y directions; or the calibration module 2 can move in the x direction and the projection measurement module 1 can move in the y direction, or the calibration module 2 can move in the y direction and the projection measurement module 1 can move in the x direction. In practical applications, the calibration module 2 can be mounted on the printhead mounting axis of the 3D printing equipment, eliminating the need for a separate moving axis. The printhead mounting axis used by the calibration module 2 and the printhead mounting axis to be calibrated can be different axes or the same axis; this is just an example and is not a limitation.

[0094] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided in this embodiment determines the height of the calibration reference block 11 as the calibration height in a non-contact manner, making the calibration height more accurate. The method of moving the calibration module 2 and the calibration module is more flexible and can meet the needs of different scenarios.

[0095] In some alternative implementations, the printhead includes multiple printheads of different lengths, and when the longest printhead reaches the safe height, the height difference between the printhead outlet end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 is greater than 0.

[0096] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, the length of the first precision printhead on the left is shorter than the length of the second precision printhead on the right. During actual calibration, if the printer can use both printheads, when setting the safety height during the calibration process, it is necessary to ensure that the discharge end of the second precision printhead will not touch the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 when the mounting end of the second precision printhead is at the safety height.

[0097] The non-contact printhead height calibration method provided in this embodiment is applicable to printheads of various lengths, and has a wider range of applications. For the longest printhead, when it is in a safe position, it will not come into contact with the calibration reference block 11, avoiding collision damage and improving the safety of printhead height calibration.

[0098] In one specific implementation, the process of height calibration of the target printhead after replacing the printhead is as follows:

[0099] (1) Move the height sensor and / or projection measurement module 1 in the x and y directions so that the height sensor measures the height value of the calibration reference block 11 as the calibration height h, such as Figure 5 As shown.

[0100] (2) Move the target printhead in the x and y directions to the preset area above the reference calibration block. The target printhead does not need to be perfectly aligned with the center of the calibration reference block 11. Figure 6 As shown.

[0101] (3) The target printhead rapidly descends from its initial height H0 to a safe height H1, then slowly moves into the parallel light field of view. The height of the printhead mounting end at this point is recorded as the cutoff height H2. The projected distance s (i.e., height difference s) between the upper surface of the calibration reference block 11 and the printhead output end is determined using a projection measurement sensor. Figure 7 As shown.

[0102] (4) Calculate the 0-position height of the printhead based on the height of the height sensor of calibration module 2: 0-position height = cutoff height H2 - projection distance s - calibration height h.

[0103] (5) Raise the print head to the initial height to complete the calibration of the target print head height.

[0104] This invention also provides a computer device having the above-described features. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The non-contact printhead height calibration device shown.

[0105] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computer device provided in an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the computer device includes one or more processors 10, memory 20, and interfaces for connecting the components, including high-speed interfaces and low-speed interfaces. The components communicate with each other via different buses and can be mounted on a common motherboard or otherwise installed as needed. The processors can process instructions executed within the computer device, including instructions stored in or on memory to display graphical information of a GUI on external input / output devices (such as display devices coupled to the interfaces). In some alternative implementations, multiple processors and / or multiple buses can be used with multiple memories and multiple memory modules, if desired. Similarly, multiple computer devices can be connected, each providing some of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server array, a group of blade servers, or a multiprocessor system). Figure 8 Take a processor 10 as an example.

[0106] Processor 10 may be a central processing unit, a network processor, or a combination thereof. Processor 10 may further include a hardware chip. The hardware chip may be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a combination thereof. The programmable logic device may be a complex programmable logic device (CAMP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a general-purpose array logic (GDA), or any combination thereof.

[0107] The memory 20 stores instructions executable by at least one processor 10 to cause the at least one processor 10 to perform the method shown in the above embodiments.

[0108] The memory 20 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the computer device. Furthermore, the memory 20 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some alternative embodiments, the memory 20 may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor 10, and these remote memories may be connected to the computer device via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0109] The memory 20 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory; the memory may also include non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, hard disk or solid-state drive; the memory 20 may also include a combination of the above types of memory.

[0110] The computer device also includes a communication interface 30 for communicating with other devices or communication networks.

[0111] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The methods described above according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code downloaded via a network and originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and then stored on a local storage medium. Thus, the methods described herein can be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium can also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that computers, processors, microprocessor controllers, or programmable hardware include storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code, which, when accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, implements the methods shown in the above embodiments.

[0112] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A non-contact printhead height calibration device, characterized in that, The device includes: a projection measurement module, a calibration module, and a controller, wherein, The projection measurement module includes a calibration reference block, a parallel light emitter, and a parallel light receiver. The parallel light emitter and the parallel light receiver are placed parallel to each other at a preset distance. The parallel light emitter is used to emit parallel light, and the parallel light receiver is used to receive parallel light. The parallel light is blocked by the calibration reference block and the print head output end. The position information of the calibration reference block and the print head output end within the parallel light is determined based on the information of the parallel light being blocked. The calibration module is used to measure the height value of the calibration reference block as the calibration height; The controller is used to obtain the cutoff height, and determine the distance between the printhead output end and the printhead mounting end based on the position information of the printhead output end and the calibration reference block in the parallel light, the cutoff height, and the calibration height, so as to calibrate the height of the printhead. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead output end enters the parallel light range and blocks the parallel light.

2. The non-contact printhead height calibration device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also used to control the movement of the projection measurement module and / or the calibration module, and adjust their relative positions in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block is within the measurement range of the calibration module.

3. The non-contact printhead height calibration device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The projection measurement module further includes a fixing bracket for fixing the calibration reference block, the parallel light emitter, and the parallel light receiver in their respective preset positions. The calibration reference block includes a calibration platform and a calibration block support, wherein... The calibration platform is used to block parallel light; A calibration block support is used to support the calibration platform.

4. The non-contact printhead height calibration device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The calibration module includes: A height sensor is used to measure the height of the calibration reference block as the calibration height.

5. A non-contact printhead height calibration method, characterized in that, The method is applied to the non-contact printhead height calibration device according to any one of claims 1-4, and the method includes: The cutoff height of the printhead and the information on the obstruction of parallel light by the printhead output end and the calibration reference block at the cutoff height are obtained. The cutoff height is the height value of the printhead mounting end when the printhead output end enters the parallel light range and obstructs the parallel light. The position information of the printhead output end and the position information of the calibration reference block are determined based on the obstruction information. The height difference between the printhead discharge end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block is determined based on the position information of the printhead discharge end and the position information of the calibration reference block. The calibration height is obtained, and based on the height difference, cutoff height, and calibration height, the distance between the printhead output end and the printhead mounting end is determined, thereby calibrating the printhead height.

6. The non-contact printhead height calibration method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: The print head is controlled to descend from an initial height to a safe height at a first preset speed. The initial height is the height of the print head mounting end when the print head is at a preset starting position. The safe height is the height of the print head mounting end when the height difference between the print head discharge end and the upper surface of the calibration reference block is greater than a preset threshold. The printhead is controlled to descend from a safe height to a cutoff height at a second preset speed, which is less than the first preset speed.

7. The non-contact printhead height calibration method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The process of obtaining the calibration height includes: Move the calibration module and / or the calibration reference block in the horizontal plane so that the calibration reference block is within the measurement range of the calibration module; The height of the calibration reference block is measured using the calibration module and used as the calibration height.

8. The non-contact printhead height calibration method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The printhead includes printheads of various lengths, and when the longest printhead reaches the safe height, the height difference between the printhead outlet and the upper surface of the calibration reference block is greater than 0.

9. A computer device, characterized in that, include: A memory and a processor, the memory and the processor being communicatively connected to each other, the memory storing computer instructions, the processor executing the computer instructions to perform the method of any one of claims 5 to 8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the method of any one of claims 5 to 8.

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