Hydraulic 3D printing system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a system and a method for printing a 3D object using a hydraulic device. The device can include an ink cartridge or container assembly that can be disposable or disposable. The container assembly is capable of integrally housing a structure such as a piston, a platform, a plurality of chambers, and a channel, wherein the channel and the chambers are fluidly connected and configured to hold sufficient 3D printing material suitable for printing a single 3D object. In an exemplary embodiment, a moving piston transfers 3D printing material from one chamber to another chamber in which a platform is located; radiation from a light engine coupled to a chamber including a platform exposes the 3D printing material to cured light on a surface of the platform or a cured layer of printing material on the platform in order to build a 3D object on the platform.

Description

[0001] Priority and Related Applications

[0002] This application is a partial continuation of U.S. Non - Provisional Application No. 18 / 198,257, filed on May 16, 2023, which claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 433,185, filed on Dec. 16, 2022. The disclosure of each application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to additive manufacturing methods using three - dimensional (3D) printers. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for printing 3D objects that employ hydraulic principles to effectively build 3D printed objects. Background Art

[0004] Traditionally, the size of the print material tank has been designed to be as large as possible so that a 3D printer can print objects of various sizes or as many objects as possible during a single print job. However, for some users (e.g., dentists or dental professionals), large tanks are undesirable, especially when only a single object (typically a small object) is the subject of the print job. For example, for dental professionals, a large tank may not be desirable for printing 3D printed dental crowns. When the print job involves small objects, smaller tanks are desired for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: maximizing the use of consumable resources such as resin or print material; avoiding wasted time in cleaning large tanks between uses; having to change resin types between jobs, which are typically custom jobs; avoiding human errors that naturally result from having to change and manually maintain large resin tanks; shortening the lifespan of resin poured into the tank but not immediately used, etc. Thus, there is clearly a need for systems and methods that eliminate the problems or obstacles that arise when small, especially custom, 3D printed objects are desired.

[0005] By way of example and for illustrative purposes, SprintRay's current printing devices typically include a large - sized resin tank and a build platform. Before printing, the user needs to add a certain volume of resin to the resin tank. During the printing process, the resin is cured by radiation on the bottom of the build platform and thus a 3D object is formed. For example, see FIG. 1, which shows SprintRay's ProS resin tank, an embodiment of which is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20210146616A1.

[0006] However, if the user wants to print small objects, such as 3D objects like dental crowns, due to the limitation of the resin tank size, the user will still need to add an unnecessary amount of resin to the tank; in fact, for small objects like dental crowns, most of the resin in the tank will not be used, will not cure into a layer or part of the intended object, and will thus be wasted. At the same time, the remaining resin or printing material typically poured into the tank will degrade due to exposure to air; that is, any remaining unused printing material will lose its freshness, which will necessarily affect the freshness of the printing material used subsequently and may affect the quality of the objects printed during subsequent operations. This is technically because the resin tank is usually filled with resin at the bottom and continuously replenished between the build platform and the resin tank after each layer of the target 3D object is printed.

[0007] By way of further example, in some conventional printing devices that utilize printing material or resin tanks, in order to print a dental crown, it is typically necessary to fill the tank with approximately 1000 ml of resin. However, during the printing process, in fact, only approximately ~1 ml to ~2 ml of resin can be used, or rather, cured, to build the dental crown. Thus, when printing small objects, less than 1% of the resin in a conventional tank can be used.

[0008] Although the remaining resin can be recycled, the recycling process affects its freshness and adequacy for future use. This is not only very inconvenient, but when the resin is continuously exposed to air, water molecules in the air can somehow contaminate the resin, resulting in a quality decline, which of course translates into a decline in the performance of the cured 3D object. In addition, it is worth noting that since the resin is exposed to air even during the printing process, the humidity and dust in the air may also affect the accuracy of the cured 3D object. For the same reason, especially when printing small 3D objects, large-sized resin tanks and large-sized build platforms will result in more resin waste, less efficient 3D printed parts, limited performance, and durability.

[0009] Another common problem, including especially in the dental field, involves materials typically required for certain printing jobs. For example, artificial crowns typically may require higher performance than other components or parts, and thus the printing materials for forming artificial crowns typically require high-viscosity resins to ensure flexural strength, modulus of flexure, rigidity, service life, etc. However, high-viscosity resins may not be suitable for existing 3D printers (e.g., bottom-up printers). Traditionally, in bottom-up printers, when curing each layer of an object, the build platform descends to a certain position such that the resin thickness between the bottom of the resin tank and the lower surface of the build platform is equal to the layer of the object. However, due to the high viscosity of the resin and the large size limitation of the build platform, there will be a huge hydrodynamic force between the resin and the build platform; that is, the hydrodynamic force can greatly limit the downward movement of the build platform, such that the build platform may not descend to the required position within a predetermined time period, especially when printing the initial layer. Therefore, because the build platform may not descend to the predetermined position, the resin thickness between the bottom of the resin tank and the lower surface of the build platform will be thicker than the predetermined layer of the object, and thus the resin layer will not be sufficiently cured, especially the part of the layer adjacent to the build platform. Additionally, the insufficiently cured layer will prevent the initial layer of the resin from adhering to the lower surface of the build platform; in this way, the printing will fail. To address these problems of high-viscosity resins required for some builds, there are dedicated tanks suitable for highly viscous printing materials. For example, tanks such as those described in U.S. Patent 11155028 and U.S. Patent Application Publication US20220024117A1 of SprintRay.

[0010] The problem arises again when wanting to switch between a small job that may require one type of printing material and another job that requires another type of printing material. Practitioners (in a dental setting) or users who expect to print several jobs may find themselves cleaning the resin tank, replacing the resin tank, adding or switching printing materials between jobs, or completely switching printers between jobs.

[0011] Accordingly, there is a need that has not been fully addressed by the prior art, and the present invention has been developed for these very aims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention generally relates to a 3D printing system and method employing a hydraulic device configured to facilitate the efficient construction of 3D printed objects.

[0013] Aspects of the present invention relate to methods, systems, and devices for printing or forming 3D objects using principles of fluid mechanics (e.g., hydraulics) to optimize the efficiency and quality of products constructed using these methods, systems, and devices.

[0014] One aspect of the present invention relates to a method for printing a 3D object. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may include the following steps: (a) actuating a piston inside a first chamber, the piston being adapted to actuating the movement of a platform inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber; (b) transferring at least a portion of the printing material stored in the first chamber to the second chamber, the second chamber including a printing area between the surface of a window and the platform; (c) emitting curing light through the window to cure a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a previously cured layer of the printing material that has been cured onto the platform; and (d) repeating steps (a)-(c) until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, actuating the piston inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, actuating the piston inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates a piston in the second chamber, the piston in the second chamber forming at least a part of the platform.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments, step (a) may include (a-1) moving the piston in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber. In some exemplary embodiments, step (a-1) may include (a-2) continuously moving the piston until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, step (a-1) may include (a-3) pausing the movement of the piston at programmable intervals until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, step (b) may include (b-1) setting a layer of the printing material on the glass surface of the window. In some exemplary embodiments, step (b) may include (b-2) setting a layer of the printing material on a film or coating that at least partially forms the window. In some exemplary embodiments, the film may be a flexible oxygen-permeable film. In some exemplary embodiments, the film or coating may be a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film, a polymethylpentene (PMP) film, a transparent polymer X (TPX) film, or a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film.

[0018] In some exemplary embodiments, step (d) may include (d-1) substantially consuming the printing material stored in the first chamber. In some exemplary embodiments, the method may additionally include (e) releasing the platform from the second chamber to allow access to the three-dimensional object formed on the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, the method may additionally include (f) breaking or removing the seal of the container assembly that houses the first and second chambers before actuating the piston.

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a system for forming or printing a three-dimensional object. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include: a cartridge or container assembly for holding one or more printing materials to print a three-dimensional object, the container assembly including: a first chamber adapted to store a first printing material; a platform movable inside a second chamber, the second chamber being in fluid communication with the first chamber; and a first piston movable inside the first chamber and configured to hydraulically actuated the movement of the platform inside the second chamber by transferring at least a portion of the first printing material in the first chamber to the printing area between the surface of the window and the platform in the second chamber. An actuator may be coupled to the controller and configured to move the first piston; and a curing light emitting module in communication with the controller may be configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least a portion of a layer of the printing material to the platform or to a previously cured layer of the printing material until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, the movement of the piston hydraulically actuates the movement of the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, the movement of the piston inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates a piston in the second chamber, the piston in the second chamber forming at least a portion of the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston is adapted to move in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston is additionally adapted to move continuously along the axis of the first chamber until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston is additionally adapted to pause its movement at programmable intervals until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments, the system additionally includes a film or coating disposed above the inner surface of the window. In some exemplary embodiments, the film or coating disposed above the inner surface of the window may be one of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film, a polymethylpentene (PMP) film, a transparent polymer X (TPX) film, or a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film. In some exemplary embodiments, the window includes a flexible oxygen-permeable film.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly houses the first and second chambers. In some exemplary embodiments, the system additionally includes a removable seal for keeping the first and second chambers airtight. In some exemplary embodiments, the system additionally includes a removable lid to prevent light from passing through the window of the container assembly.

[0023] In some exemplary embodiments, a system for printing a 3D object according to the present invention may include: a controller; a container assembly adapted to hermetically store a printing material, the container assembly including: a housing that houses a first chamber adapted to store the printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform; a passage that connects a sidewall of the first chamber to a sidewall of the second chamber within the housing such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure that is movable within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between a surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform; a motor that is coupled to the controller and is configured to move the structure; and a light-emitting module that communicates with the controller and is configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform in order to build a 3D object on the platform.

[0024] In some exemplary embodiments, an arm may be coupled to the motor and is adapted to press against the structure of the container assembly. A housing for the controller, the motor, and the light-emitting module may include a retaining frame disposed on an outer surface of the housing and adapted to receive the container assembly. The housing may include one or more user interface devices, including but not limited to a touchscreen interface disposed on an exterior of the housing.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may further include a heating module adapted to heat the printing material inside the container assembly. The heating module may include a transparent surface heater disposed above a portion of the retaining frame. The heating module may include a layer composed of an indium tin oxide (ITO) coating. The heating module may include an adapter removably coupled to the retaining frame, the adapter having a heating element disposed on a wall of the adapter. The heating module may include a heating element disposed above the arm and adapted to transfer heat to the container assembly.

[0026] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a device, such as an ink cartridge or a container assembly, that holds a printing material for printing a three-dimensional object, wherein the container assembly includes a platform that is adapted to facilitate building a 3D object onto the platform inside the container assembly. In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly may include: a first chamber adapted to store a first printing material; a platform movable inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber; and a first piston that is movable inside the first chamber and is configured to hydraulically actuate movement of the platform inside the second chamber by transferring at least a portion of the first printing material in the first chamber to the second chamber. The second chamber may include a printing area between a surface of a window and the platform, wherein the window is adapted to receive curing light for curing a layer of the first printing material onto the platform in order to build a three-dimensional object on the platform.

[0027] In some exemplary embodiments, the piston is the first piston, and the platform includes a surface of a second piston adapted to move inside the second chamber.

[0028] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly further includes a base that includes an opening exposing the window. In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly further includes a film or coating disposed above the inner surface of the window. In some exemplary embodiments, the film or coating disposed above the inner surface of the window includes one of the following: a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film; a polymethylpentene (PMP) film; a transparent polymer X (TPX) film; or a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film. In some exemplary embodiments, the window of the container assembly includes a flexible oxygen-permeable membrane. In some exemplary embodiments, the flexible oxygen-permeable membrane is adapted to rest against a glass surface of a 3D printing device configured to support the container assembly.

[0029] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly may further include a removable seal that keeps the first and second chambers airtight until the seal is removed. In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly may further include a removable lid to prevent light from passing through the window.

[0030] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly further includes a third chamber that is in fluid communication with the second chamber; and a second piston that is capable of moving inside the third chamber and is adapted to hydraulically actuating the movement of a platform inside the second chamber by delivering at least a portion of a second printing material stored in the third chamber into a printing area inside the second chamber.

[0031] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a 3D printer or device for printing three-dimensional objects using a hydraulic device. The device may include: an actuator adapted to actuating the movement of a piston capable of moving inside a container assembly that is adapted to hold one or more printing materials and print three-dimensional objects; a base adapted to receive the container assembly; a controller coupled to the actuator; and a curing light-emitting module in communication with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to: (a) actuating the movement of a piston inside a first chamber of the container assembly, the piston being adapted to hydraulically actuating the movement of a platform inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber; (b) delivering at least a portion of the printing material stored in the first chamber into the second chamber, the second chamber including a printing area between the surface of the window and the platform; (c) emitting curing light through the window to cure a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a previously cured layer of the printing material that has been cured onto the platform; and (d) repeating steps (a)-(c) until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0032] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly includes a spring releasable by the controller, for example, by actuating an actuator adapted to release the spring; the spring may be adapted to actuating the movement of the piston.

[0033] In some exemplary embodiments, the actuator is configured to directly or indirectly push the piston to move the piston inside the chamber of the container assembly. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston hydraulically actuates the movement of the platform.

[0034] In some exemplary embodiments, the actuator is configured to directly or indirectly pull the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, the movement of the platform hydraulically actuates the movement of the piston.

[0035] In some exemplary embodiments, the release spring actuates the movement of the piston, and the controller actuates the actuator configured to directly or indirectly pull the platform.

[0036] Various objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way of illustration and example. The accompanying drawings submitted herewith form a part of this specification, including exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and illustrate various objects and features of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the operating methods and functions of the related elements of the structure and the combination and economy of manufacture of the parts, will become more apparent when considering the following description and the appended claims in reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a resin tank of the prior art.

[0039] Figure 2-1 A block diagram illustrating a system according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2-2 A block diagram illustrating an apparatus according to the present invention suitable for holding printing materials and printing three-dimensional objects.

[0041] Figure 2-3 A block diagram illustrating a system for printing three-dimensional objects according to the present invention.

[0042] Figure 3-1 and Figure 3-2 Illustrating an apparatus and method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 Illustrating a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 Illustrating a container assembly for printing 3D objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 Illustrating a container assembly for printing 3D objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 Illustrate an exemplary cross-sectional view of a chamber of a device for printing a 3D object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 8 Description Figure 7 An exemplary close-up view of the cross-sectional view shown.

[0048] Figure 9 Illustrate a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 10 Illustrate a container assembly for printing a 3D object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 11 Illustrate an exemplary bottom view of a container assembly for printing a 3D object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 12 Illustrate an exemplary bottom view of a container assembly for printing a 3D object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figures 12-1 to 12-4 Illustrate a method of printing a 3D printed object performed by a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 13-1 Illustrate a method for printing a three-dimensional object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 13-2 Illustrate a system for printing a three-dimensional object using multiple materials according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 13-3 Illustrate a system for printing a three-dimensional object using multiple materials according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figures 14 to 16 Illustrate several views of a device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 17 Illustrate a system for printing a three-dimensional object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 18 Illustrate a container component support configured to support or receive Figure 17 a container component or a cartridge of the system shown.

[0059] Figure 19 Illustrate a system for printing a three-dimensional object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 20 Describe a container component support configured to support or receive one or more container components or cartridges of the system shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 The container component support of the system shown.

[0061] Figure 21 Describe a washing system adapted to receive a platform of a system for printing three-dimensional objects, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 21-1 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of washing a 3D printed object constructed by a system for printing three-dimensional objects, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figures 21-2 to 21-10 Describe an exemplary washing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 22 Describe an exemplary embodiment of a container component, specifically, an improved construction or printing speed of the container component and a simplified body of the container component.

[0065] Figures 23-1 to 23-4 Describe a piston, and more specifically, an exemplary embodiment of pistons of different shapes that can be employed according to the present invention.

[0066] Figure 23-5 Describe an exemplary guiding structure that can be employed according to the present invention.

[0067] Figures 24-1 to 24-3 Describe the container component body configuration according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0068] Figures 24-4 to 24-5 Describe according to Figure 24-1 A cross-sectional view of the container component body configuration according to the embodiment shown.

[0069] Figures 24-6 to 24-9 Describe the container component body configuration according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 25 Describe a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 26 Describe an exemplary hydraulic printing device or container component.

[0072] Figure 27 Describe Figure 26 An exploded view of the container component in.

[0073] Figure 28 For Figure 26A close-up view of one of the chamber walls of the container component in

[0074] Figure 29 A top view illustrating an exemplary container component according to the present invention.

[0075] Figure 30 A cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary container component according to the present invention.

[0076] Figure 31 A close-up view illustrating an exemplary container component or cartridge according to the present invention.

[0077] Figure 32 An isometric view illustrating a part of a 3D printing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0078] Figure 33 A container component coupled to an actuator according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 34 An exploded view of a container component according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 35 A perspective view of a container component according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 36-1 and Figure 36-2 A side view and a cross-sectional view of a container component according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 37 and Figure 38 A 3D printing system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] Figures 39 to 41 A packaging for a container component according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 42 A system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 43 A system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0086] Figures 44 to 57 Different possible arrangements of heating elements on a system according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0087] Figures 58 to 59 Different possible positions or orientations of a container component according to the present invention.

[0088] Figures 60 to 64Describe a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0089] Figures 65 to 68 Describe a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 69 Describe a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 70 Describe a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0092] In the following discussion of the various embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the present invention, in which specific embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced are depicted by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or like elements.

[0093] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of example in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well-known structures, components, and / or their functions or structural relationships, etc. have been described at a relatively high level without detailed description in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the teachings.

[0094] Throughout the specification and claims, the terms may have nuances of meaning that are contextually presented or implied beyond the explicitly stated meaning. Similarly, as used herein, the phrase "in one embodiment / example" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and the phrase "in another embodiment / example" does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment. For example, the subject matter intended to be claimed includes combinations of all or part of the example embodiments.

[0095] Unless otherwise specifically stated, or otherwise understood within the context of use, among other things, conditional language such as "can", "could", "might", "may", "for example", etc., as used herein, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that one or more embodiments in any way require features, elements, and / or steps, whether or not these features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular embodiment or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0096] The terms "comprising", "including", "having", etc. are synonymous and are used in an open-ended manner and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, etc. Further, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than in its exclusive sense), such that when, for example, used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Unless otherwise specifically stated, conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z" is otherwise understood in the context in which it is commonly used to convey that an item, term, etc. can be X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of each of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z. The term "and / or" means "and" for some embodiments and "or" for some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and / or C can be replaced by A, B, and C written in one sentence, and by A, B, or C written in another sentence. A, B, and / or C means that some embodiments can include A and B, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include B and C, some embodiments can include only A, some embodiments can include only B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments include A, B, and C. The term "and / or" is used to avoid unnecessary redundancy. Similarly, terms such as "a", "an" or "the" can also be understood to convey either singular usage or convey plural usage, at least in part depending on the context. Further, the term "based on" can be understood to not necessarily be intended to convey a set of exclusive factors, but can allow for the presence of additional factors that are not necessarily explicitly described, again, at least in part depending on the context.

[0097] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is essential or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; moreover, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention or the invention disclosed herein. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the present disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

[0098] For purposes of this disclosure, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in the figures. However, it should be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, unless expressly stated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the figures and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0099] As used in this disclosure, the term "comprise" and variations of the term such as "comprising" and "comprises" are not intended to exclude other additions, components, elements, or steps.

[0100] Turning now to the figures depicting embodiments of the invention, Figure 2-1 a block diagram illustrating a system according to the invention. More specifically, Figure 2-1 a system 100 is depicted that illustratively includes a container assembly 101 for holding printing material to print a three-dimensional object; a piston 102 capable of moving inside a first chamber of the container assembly 101 and configured to: actuate the movement of a platform 103 inside a second chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber and transfer at least a portion (e.g., a layer) of the printing material stored in the first chamber to the second chamber, wherein the second chamber includes a printing area between a surface of a window inside the second chamber and the platform 102; an actuator 104 coupled to a controller 105 and configured to move the piston; and a curing light module 106 in communication with the controller 105 and configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least a portion of the layer of the printing material to the platform or to a previously cured layer of the printing material until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0101] The container assembly 101 may be a container or cartridge adapted to hold one or more printing materials and adapted to facilitate the building of a 3D object on a platform 103 that is at least partially received inside the cartridge or container assembly 101. As will be described in more detail below, the piston 102 may be adapted to drive the hydraulic transfer of the printing material inside the chamber of the container assembly to the second chamber or printing area between the window of the container assembly 101 and the platform.

[0102] The actuator 104 can be any type of actuator, or can be an actuator module including multiple types of actuators, which can be configured to release the spring mechanism of the container component, push the piston 102, pull the platform 103, or a combination of these functions without limiting the scope of the present invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various actuators and actuator types can be employed to achieve the desired functions described in this disclosure.

[0103] The controller 105 is coupled to or communicates with the actuator 104 and the curing light module 106. The controller 105 can include a memory having executable instructions configured to: (a) actuating the movement of the piston 102 inside the first chamber of the container component 101, the piston 102 being adapted to hydraulically actuating the movement of the platform 103 inside the second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber; (b) transferring at least a portion of the printing material stored in the first chamber to the second chamber, the second chamber including a printing area between the surface of the window and the platform; (c) emitting curing light through the window to cure the layer of the printing material to the platform 102 or to a previously cured layer of the printing material that has been cured to the platform 102; and (d) repeating steps (a) to (c) until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0104] The curing light module 106 is a light module configured to emit curing light through the window of the container component or the ink cartridge to cure at least a portion or layer of the printing material to the platform or to a previously cured layer of the printing material until a three-dimensional object is formed. Any suitable light source and light type can be used as long as the light source is of a type suitable for curing the printing material.

[0105] Moving on to the next figure, Figure 2-2 A block diagram of a device for holding printing material according to the present invention is illustrated. In an exemplary embodiment, the device includes a component that serves as a container (for long-term storage of the printing material), serves as a reservoir (for storing the printing material used during the printing process), and serves as a platform on which a desired 3D object can be formed. This device, such as the container component, can be reusable in some embodiments and can be a disposable ink cartridge that is suitable for storing just enough printing material for printing a desired object, as will be further explained below with reference to other figures.

[0106] In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 2-2As described, the container assembly 101 may include: a first chamber 107 adapted to store printing material (i.e., during an initial or storage phase, most but not necessarily all of the printing material may be stored inside the first chamber); a second chamber 108 in fluid communication with the first chamber 107; and a piston 102 capable of moving inside the first chamber 107, which is configured to: actuating the movement of a platform 103 inside the second chamber 108 and transferring a portion of the printing material in the first chamber 107 to the second chamber. The second chamber 108 may include a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber 108 and the platform 103 (e.g., see Figure 6 , Figure 12 , Figure 25 ).

[0107] As will be more apparent with reference to the following other figures, in some exemplary embodiments, the movement of the piston 102 may hydraulically actuate the movement of the platform 103. In some exemplary embodiments, the movement of the piston 102 inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates a piston in the second chamber, and the piston in the second chamber forms at least a portion of the platform 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston 102 is adapted to move in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston 102 is additionally adapted to continuously move along the axis of the first chamber until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston 102 is additionally adapted to pause its movement at programmable intervals until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0108] Figure 2-3 A block diagram illustrating an apparatus for constructing or printing a three-dimensional object according to the present invention. More specifically, Figure 2-3 A block diagram illustrating a device 110 for printing a 3D object, such as a 3D printing system. The device 110 may include: an actuator or actuator module 104 adapted to actuating the movement of a piston 102 capable of moving inside a container assembly 101, the container assembly 101 being adapted to hold one or more printing materials and print a three-dimensional object; a base or container assembly support 120 adapted to receive and / or fix the container assembly 101; a controller 105 coupled to the actuator 104; and a curing light-emitting module 106 in communication with the controller 105, wherein the controller 105 is configured to: (a) actuating the movement of the piston 102 inside the first chamber of the container assembly 101, the piston 102 being adapted to hydraulically actuate the movement of a platform 103 inside a second chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber; (b) transferring at least a portion of the printing material stored in the first chamber to the second chamber, the second chamber including a printing area between the surface of a window and the platform (e.g., and without limiting the scope of the present invention, see Figure 6 , Figure 12 , Figure 25); (c) emitting curing light through the window to cure the layer of the printing material onto the platform 102 or onto a previously cured layer of the printing material that has been cured onto the platform 102; and (d) repeating steps (a)-(c) until a three-dimensional object is formed layer by layer.

[0109] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly 101 includes a spring 109 or a similar mechanism that actuates the piston 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly 101 does not include a spring mechanism. In an exemplary embodiment, the spring 109 can be released by the controller 105, for example, by actuating an actuator adapted to release the spring; once the spring is released or the mechanism is activated by the actuator 104 or even manually activated by a user, the spring is adapted to actuate the movement of the piston. In some exemplary embodiments, the actuator 104 is configured to directly or indirectly push the piston to move the piston inside the chamber of the container assembly. In some exemplary embodiments, the piston 102 hydraulically actuates the movement of the platform 103. In some exemplary embodiments, the spring 109 is instead coupled to the platform 103 and pulls the platform, which hydraulically actuates the piston 102.

[0110] In some exemplary embodiments, the actuator 104 is instead configured to directly or indirectly pull the platform 103. In some embodiments, a spring mechanism on the ink cartridge or container assembly is actuated to move the piston, and in addition, the actuator 104 also directly or indirectly pulls the platform 103. In some embodiments, the container assembly does not include a spring mechanism, and the actuator 104 directly or indirectly pulls the platform 103. In some embodiments, the container assembly does not include a spring mechanism, and the actuator 104 directly or indirectly pushes the piston 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the actuator 104 only releases the spring mechanism 109 to actuate or move the piston 102. In an exemplary embodiment, releasing the spring actuates the movement of the piston, and the controller actuates the actuator 104 configured to directly or indirectly pull the platform 103.

[0111] The container assembly support 120 can be any suitable structure adapted to receive at least a portion of the container assembly 101. For example, the container assembly support 120 can be as simple as a substantially flat base, or can be a more complex structure that is adapted to receive and align a portion of the container assembly 101 in order to secure the container assembly 101 to the support structure 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the support structure 120 secures the container assembly or even multiple container assemblies during a printing operation such that actuation of the piston or platform does not undesirably move the container assembly in a manner that interferes with the quality of the printing operation.

[0112] Moving on to the next set of figures, Figures 3-1 to 3-2 illustrating an apparatus and method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, Figure 3-1 showing an exemplary hydraulic device in a starting phase andFigure 3-2 An apparatus is shown at the end stage of an exemplary printing process during which a 3D printed object is formed. Refer to Figure 3-1 , the hydraulic device 1 includes a body or housing 11, a plurality of chambers (e.g., a spare resin chamber 12 and a printing chamber 13), a channel 14, a piston 15, and a platform 16. The body 11 may generally be a hollow structure with only one or more openings in the top region; the hollow structure may be divided into the chamber 12 and the chamber 13 by a partition or separator 111. In an exemplary embodiment, since the separator 111 does not at least partially contact the bottom of the body 11, the channel 14 may be formed between the chamber 12 and the chamber 13, thereby fluidly connecting the two chambers. Thus, when the piston 15 moves into the chamber 12, the printing material (resin 2 in this exemplary embodiment) can flow from the chamber 12 to the chamber 13 through the channel 14; hydraulically moving the platform 16 in the chamber 13. The piston 15 is at least partially installed in the spare resin chamber 12, and the platform 16 is also at least partially installed in the printing chamber 13.

[0113] The substrate 112 that can form the bottom portion of the body 11 may include a window (e.g., see Figure 4 ) between the platform 16 and the light engine 4 of the printing device, and may preferably be transparent (or, at least transparent in the area suitable for guiding sufficient light to the platform 16, which area is inside the printing chamber 13 - the printing area, as will be discussed further with reference to other figures below). This allows the radiation or curing light emitted from the light curing module to pass through and cure the exposed printing material or resin 2 in the printing area or zone, to allow the resin to cure onto the platform or onto the previously cured layer of the printing material used.

[0114] As can be understood from Figure 3-1 and Figure 3-2 , another aspect of the present invention relates to a method. The method can be described with reference to these figures as follows:

[0115] (1) Initial stage:

[0116] In the initial stage, the platform 16 may be installed or positioned closer to the bottom of the printing chamber 13 than to the top of the printing chamber, not necessarily in contact, but allowing the initial layer or thickness of the printing material to reach the top surface of the substrate 112. A certain volume of resin 2 may be filled into the spare resin chamber 12 and the channel 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the type and size of the target 3D object (to be printed), e.g., the height of the object to be printed, may determine the specific volume of the resin 2 to be used and the height of the initial layer present in the second or printing chamber 13 in the initial stage. In this initial stage, the piston 15 may be at least partially installed or positioned inside the chamber 12, in contact with the top surface of the resin 2 inside the storage or spare chamber 12.

[0117] (2) Printing Process / Stage

[0118] During the printing process, the piston 15 is actuated downward a certain distance (e.g., 0.1 mm, which can be determined in part by the thickness of each layer of the 3D object, and the relative cross-sectional areas of the chambers 12 and 13). Since the resin 2 is non-compressible, the movement of the piston hydraulically moves the platform; the resin 2 flows from the chamber 12 into the printing chamber 13, for example, by moving a single layer thickness from the chamber 12 to the chamber 13, and the platform 16 can also be actuated upward by a single layer thickness.

[0119] During the printing process, in addition to the movement of the piston and the platform, the light engine 4 can project a specific pattern onto the printing area below or aligned with the printing chamber 13, so that at least one layer of the resin 2 in the chamber 13 can be cured, and the cured resin will adhere to the platform 16. Throughout the process, including printing the next layer or subsequent layers, the hydraulic printing device will repeat the above steps until the entire 3D object is completed.

[0120] (3) End Stage

[0121] During or at the end stage, the entire 3D object has been printed. The user can remove the platform 16 from the printing chamber 13 and additionally detach the desired 3D object from the platform 16. In some exemplary embodiments, a device for ejecting the platform from the chamber 13 and / or the housing 11 can be provided.

[0122] Figure 4 Describe a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As Figure 4 shown, in some exemplary embodiments, in order to reduce the complexity of the 3D printer, the printing device 1 can be installed on an existing 3D printer, for example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention in any way, installed on top of an existing resin tank 6; in this configuration, the tank 6 will be empty, but its clear or transparent bottom can be used to support the base of the device 1.

[0123] In Figure 4 the non-limiting example shown, the piston 15 of the device 1 is actuated by the build platform 5, and the cross-sectional areas of the chambers 12 and 13 are the same. Therefore, when printing a smaller 3D object, the user does not need to adjust the basic parameters of the 3D printer (e.g., printing speed, each stroke of the build platform 5, etc.), or set other parameters for compensation. In other embodiments, the hydraulic printing device 1 can be installed on a mounting base 7 (e.g., see Figure 9 ), and the mounting base can be configured to receive and fix the hydraulic printing device 1 in place.

[0124] Moving on to the next figure, Figure 5 Describe a container assembly for printing 3D objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically,Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of the hydraulic printing device 1 is shown, which may optionally include several sealing rings 18 that can be fixed to the bottom of the piston 15 and the platform 16 and are configured to prevent printing materials such as curable resin 2 from leaking to the outside of the housing or the container body 11.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the substrate 112 can be replaced by a flexible film 17 (e.g., PDMS film, TPX film, FEP film; see also, for example, Figure 7 ). Compared with the rigid substrate 112, the adhesion force between the cured resin and the film 17 will be significantly reduced, such that the cured resin will be more easily separated from the flexible film 17, and additionally, the printing speed will also increase. However, if the hydraulic printing device 1 does not include the rigid substrate 112, then in an exemplary embodiment, the device can simply be placed and / or fixed on a rigid structure, for example and without limiting the scope of the present invention in any way, placed on the glass of the mounting base 7 (see Figure 9 ), or placed on the existing resin tank 6 (see Figure 4 ). In some exemplary embodiments, the resin tank 6 can include a mounting base 7 that is fixed or integral with the substrate of the device 1 (see Figure 9 ), such that the glass surface provides a rigid surface. Otherwise, if not placed on a rigid structure, then when the piston pushes the resin 2, the flexible film 17 will deform downward, and the hydraulic pressure may not be sufficient to move the platform 16 and additionally drive it out of the second chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible film 17 can be an oxygen-permeable membrane. In this embodiment, the substrate of the hydraulic printing device can be replaced by the oxygen-permeable membrane 17, and it can be placed on the glass of the mounting base 7.

[0126] During the printing process, oxygen permeates the membrane 17, and a "dead zone" is formed on the top surface of the membrane 17. The "dead zone" typically hinders the polymerization reaction within the "dead zone", which is beneficial for preventing the 3D object 3 from undesirably adhering to the membrane 17. Naturally, this helps to reduce the adhesion force between the 3D object 3 and the membrane 17 and increase the printing speed. The dead zone principle is described by Carbon, Inc. in U.S. Patent 9,360,757.

[0127] Generally, the present invention employs the principle of "liquids being substantially incompressible". Based on this principle, when the spare resin is pushed by the piston, a certain volume of resin will flow from the chamber 12 into the printing chamber 13, and the platform 15 will be driven upward by an appropriate or proportional distance. The reduced volume of the spare chamber 12 is equal to the increased volume of the printing chamber 13. Therefore, by controlling the operating speed of the piston 15, the relative cross-sectional areas, printing thickness, speed, and other properties of the chamber 12 and the chamber 13 can be precisely adjusted. Figure 8 Explanation Figure 7 An exemplary close-up view of the cross-sectional view shown.

[0128] The present invention is suitable for printing various objects, but is particularly suitable for printing smaller 3D objects, such as printable dental crowns used by dental professionals on their patients. In an exemplary embodiment, a device such as device 1 can be easily installed on an existing 3D printer. As will be further discussed with reference to other figures below, in some exemplary embodiments, according to the present invention, a more specialized printer suitable for engaging with a dedicated container assembly or ink cartridge can be employed.

[0129] Compared with traditional printing methods (e.g., top-down, bottom-up), in the device according to the present invention, the printing material can always be in a closed chamber and never be in direct contact with air until the desired object is completed and most or all of the printing material is exhausted for all intents and purposes. Therefore, the printing system and method as presented in this disclosure effectively reduce the impact of humidity and dust in the air that adversely affect the quality and durability of the printing material and the 3D printed objects formed using the system and method.

[0130] Now turning to Figure 7 , an exemplary cross-sectional view of a chamber of a device for printing 3D objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0131] In a traditional 3D printer, due to machine limitations (e.g., motor and electronic control precision), each upward or downward movement of the build platform has a minimum travel, referred to as Z min . Under this limitation, the height of each layer forming the intended 3D object must be higher than Z min , such that in a traditional 3D printer, we cannot otherwise improve the precision of the 3D object along the Z-axis. However, according to the present invention, the Z min can be broken by adjusting the relative cross-sectional areas of chamber 12 and chamber 13.

[0132] For example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, as Figure 9 shown, the cross-sectional area of the printing chamber 16 can be increased such that it is twice the cross-sectional area of chamber 15. Therefore, when the build platform 5 moves downward by a height of Z min , the platform 16 can be driven upward by half of Z min . Thus, using the present invention, a 3D object can be divided into more layers for printing, thereby improving the precision of the 3D object along the Z-axis.

[0133] Figure 6 An exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary container assembly for printing 3D objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. More specifically, Figure 6Shown during or after completion of a printing operation, thus shown where the 3D printed object is still cured to a platform that remains inside the chamber of the container assembly.

[0134] As Figure 6 shown in this view, the container assembly 600 can include a piston 601 that moves along the z-axis of a first chamber 602 that is in fluid communication with a second chamber 603. The piston 601 is adapted to hydraulically actuate the movement of a platform 604 inside the second chamber 603, for example by moving or transferring at least a portion 605 of the printing material stored in the first chamber 602 to a printing area 606 inside the second chamber 603 (the printing area 606 is shown in dashed lines, between the surface of the window 607 and the surface 604a of the platform 604). When the container assembly 600 is actuated during a printing operation, a curing light engine configured to emit curing light guides the curing light through the window 607 to cure a layer of the printing material within the printing area to the platform or to a previously cured layer of printing material that has previously been cured to the platform. By subsequently repeating these steps, a three-dimensional object 608 can be formed. In some exemplary embodiments, the window 607 can be glass or a similar hard transparent or translucent surface. In some exemplary embodiments, the glass or similar hard transparent or translucent surface can be treated with a coating 609 such as a gel, e.g., a PDMS gel coating on the glass surface of the window 607.

[0135] Turning now to the next set of figures, Figures 10 to 12 illustrating another exemplary embodiment in accordance with the present invention, which shows a container assembly configured for building a single 3D printed object, where the container assembly includes a body that can exemplarily (but in no way limits the scope of the present invention) be shaped like a boot or otherwise have a boot-shaped body that includes a plurality of fluidly connected chambers (i.e., similar to those shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3 and Figure 6 ).

[0136] In Figure 10 , an exemplary container assembly 1000 includes a housing or body 1100 that includes a first chamber 1002 that initially holds the printing material and is adapted to receive at least a portion of a first piston 1001. A second chamber 1003 is adapted to receive at least a portion of a second piston that forms at least a portion of a platform 1004, where the chamber 1002 is fluidly connected to the second chamber 1003 such that when the piston 1001 moves or in this case is pressed, the volume inside the chamber 1002 decreases, transferring at least a portion of the printing material to the chamber 1003, e.g., by hydraulically driving the printing material into the chamber 1003 such that the layer of printing material between the platform and the base or window of the container assembly can be exposed to a light source that cures the printing material to the platform 1004.

[0137] In an exemplary embodiment, the base 1005 forms or secures a window 1008 at the bottom portion of the container assembly 1000 (see Figure 12 ), where the window is configured to allow a light source to direct curing light onto a layer of printing material delivered into the chamber 1003. The light source can then be directed at the window 1008 to print each layer onto the surface of the build platform 1004.

[0138] Figure 11 and Figure 12 An image of the bottom section of the container assembly 1000 is shown. From Figure 11 's view, it can be understood that the chambers 1002 and 1003 are fluidly connected at the bottom region of the container assembly. More specifically, a channel 1007 can be formed at the bottom of the container to fluidly connect the chambers 1002 and 1003. This channel 1007 can be sealed by the bottom surface of the base, which can be glass or can be part of the main body 1001 of the container assembly. The channel 1007 is partially formed by a recess 1006 that separates the bottoms of each chamber 1002 and 1003 from the terminus of the housing 1100.

[0139] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 12 's view, it can be understood that in some exemplary embodiments, the window 1008 is exactly below the chamber 1003 (i.e., the chamber in which the platform 1004 is slidably received), and can be positioned such that only the layer of printing material below the chamber 1003 is exposed to the curing light. For example and without departing from or limiting the scope of the present invention, this can be achieved by including a base 1009 that is solid except for a transparent aperture that forms the window 1008.

[0140] Now turning to the next set of figures, Figures 12-1 to 12-4 illustrates a method of printing a 3D printed object performed by a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] By way of example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, starting from Figure 12-1 , at step (1), the platform 1104 of the container assembly 1100 can be actuated from the initial position or state of the device. For example, initially, the platform 1104 can be positioned at its lowest or deepest submerged position inside the chamber 1103. At this initial or starting stage, 3D printer components such as a printing arm can be coupled to the piston 1101 and adapted to actuate the piston 1101 (e.g., by pressing down on it) into the chamber 1102, which initially holds at least some or most of the printing material therein.

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly 1100 may hold most of the printing material, such as resin, inside the chamber 1102 and just enough printing material inside the chamber 1103 suitable for curing the initial layer of the desired 3D printed object. In other exemplary embodiments, the piston 1101 must first be actuated to introduce the first layer of the appropriate or sufficient printing material into the chamber 1103. Thus, whether the appropriate layer of printing material is already in the chamber 1103 or the appropriate layer of printing material must be initially introduced into the chamber 1103 by actuation of the piston 1101, the curing light module 1105 may be activated simultaneously or subsequently to begin emitting curing light onto the appropriate layer of printing material to cure the layer onto the surface of the platform 1104.

[0143] At step (2), as Figure 12-2 shown, the process continues such that the actuated piston 1101 continues to move, transferring printing material between the fluidly connected chambers 1102 and 1103. In some exemplary embodiments, the process is continuous and the piston 1101 is continuously pushed into the chamber 1102 to continuously introduce printing material into the chamber 1103 for printing the desired 3D printed object 1107. In some exemplary embodiments, there may be pauses in the actuation of the piston 1101; in an exemplary embodiment, the actuation timing of the piston 1101 is coordinated with the activation timing of the light engine to maximize the speed, efficiency, and quality of the 3D printed object 1107. As Figure 12-2 exemplarily illustrated, when the piston 1101 is actuated and additionally moves inside the chamber 1102 to transfer a portion 1106 of the printing material into the chamber 1103, the platform 1104 may be raised or moved out of the chamber 1103, respectively.

[0144] At step (3), as Figure 12-3 shown, the process continues: printing the next or subsequent layer, and the hydraulic printing device repeats the above steps until the entire 3D object is completed. In an exemplary embodiment, most or all of the printing material stored in the first chamber may be transferred to the second chamber (although not necessarily). As described above, one of the benefits of the present invention is that the container assembly can safely hold the printing material required for single use in a sealed environment to preserve and maintain the printing material in an optimal state before use. This is a significant improvement over prior art printing methods that require opening the containers of the printing material, which can be used after opening the packaged printing material and are typically reused or not fully used and only used later when their shelf life and exposure to the environment reduce their efficacy.

[0145] At step (4), as Figure 12-4As shown, the construction or printing process can be completed. In an exemplary embodiment, the platform 1104 can be completely removed from the chamber 1103 manually or mechanically, such that the completed 3D printed object 1107 can be accessed and separated from the platform 1104. Naturally, as the construction process is completed, the light engine can be deactivated or made inactive. As can be understood from this exemplary method of constructing a 3D printed object, in an exemplary embodiment, the container assembly is a single-use component. Of course, in other exemplary embodiments, the same hydraulic principle can be applied to a multi-chamber tank assembly similar to the container assembly, which is not single-use and can subsequently be filled and used again.

[0146] As can be understood from the exemplary method of printing a 3D printed object according to the present invention, the actuation of the piston 1101 (or otherwise moving the piston 1101) can be achieved by movement in a single direction. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the piston 1101 moves downward into the chamber 1102 in a single direction (i.e., during the construction process, the piston 1101 is not pulled out of the chamber 1102); this causes the platform 1104 to also move in a single direction (i.e., the platform 1104 never moves into the chamber 1103, only moves out of the chamber 1103 in a single direction). Movement in a single direction facilitates a more efficient overall process, as no time is wasted moving the platform towards and away from the printing material, as is the case with prior art 3D printers that use stereolithography methods to construct 3D objects.

[0147] Next, FIG. 13 illustrates a method for printing a three-dimensional object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary method 1200. It should be understood that although the method 1200 is shown in a particular order, it is contemplated that different orders with fewer or more steps can be performed without departing from the scope of the present invention. In an exemplary embodiment, the method 1200 can include the following steps:

[0148] In step 1201, the piston on a device (such as a container assembly) according to the present invention can be actuated or otherwise moved. For example, the piston can be slidably moved into or through the chamber of the container assembly. This can involve actuating the piston inside the first chamber, where the piston is adapted to actuate the movement of a platform inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber.

[0149] In step 1202, at least a portion of the printing material stored in the chamber can be transferred to the printing area between the surface of the window and the platform. This typically can involve transferring at least a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to the second chamber where the platform is located, and thus allowing a suitable layer of the printing material to be exposed to curing light through the window.

[0150] In step 1203, curing light can be emitted through the window to cure at least a portion of the layer of printing material to the platform (i.e., for example, if it is the first layer) or to a previously cured layer of the printing material (i.e., if the previous layer has been cured and a new layer is being formed on the existing cured layer of the 3D object being formed).

[0151] In step 1204, steps 1201 to 1203 can be repeated until the desired 3D object is finally formed.

[0152] In some exemplary embodiments, step 1201 can include moving the piston in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber. In some exemplary embodiments, moving the piston in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber can include continuously moving the piston until a three-dimensional object is formed. In some exemplary embodiments, moving the piston in a single direction along the axis of the first chamber can include pausing the movement of the piston at programmable intervals until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0153] In some exemplary embodiments, step 1202 can include setting the layer of printing material on the glass surface of the window. In some exemplary embodiments, step 1202 can include setting the layer of printing material on a film or coating that at least partially forms the window. In some exemplary embodiments, the film can be a flexible oxygen-permeable film. In some exemplary embodiments, the film or coating can be a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film, a polymethylpentene (PMP) film, a transparent polymer X (TPX) film, or a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film.

[0154] In some exemplary embodiments, step 1204 can include substantially consuming the printing material stored in the first chamber or transferring it to a second chamber that houses the platform.

[0155] In some exemplary embodiments, method 1200 can additionally include, after the printing process is completed, releasing the platform from the second chamber to allow access to the three-dimensional object formed on the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, method 1200 can additionally include, before step 1201 - before actuating the piston - breaking or removing the seal of the container assembly that houses the first and second chambers.

[0156] In an exemplary embodiment, method 1201 can be performed in part or in whole by a controller of a system according to the present invention. For example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, Figure 2-1 or Figure 2-3The controller 105 in []. Accordingly, the controller 105 may include a memory having executable instructions configured to: (a) actuate a piston inside the first chamber, the piston being adapted to actuate the movement of a platform inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber; (b) transfer at least a portion of the printing material stored at least partially in the first chamber to a second chamber in a printing area between a surface including a window and the platform; (c) emit curing light through the window to cure a layer of the printing material to the platform or to a previously cured layer of the printing material that has been cured to the platform; and (d) repeat steps (a)-(c) until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0157] In some exemplary embodiments, actuating the piston inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates the platform. In some exemplary embodiments, actuating the piston inside the first chamber hydraulically actuates a piston in the second chamber, the piston in the second chamber forming at least a portion of the platform.

[0158] Figure 13-2 Illustrate a system for printing three-dimensional objects using multiple materials according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, Figure 13-2 Show a container assembly 1300 configured to build a 3D printed object that may include multiple types of materials, such as printing materials 1311, 1312, and 1313, which may be cured onto a platform 1301, for example, by transferring multiple printing materials from a first chamber containing a piston 1303 to a second chamber containing the platform 1301. Each of the materials is used according to the build specifications or parameters of the desired 3D printed object such that each material is introduced into the chamber containing the platform 1301 in a predetermined order so that the desired material sequence is cured as needed. Using this exemplary embodiment, a 3D printed object can be formed using different materials inside the container assembly or cartridge to facilitate printing multi-color or multi-material products. In some exemplary embodiments, this can be achieved by implementing multiple pistons in separate fluidly connected chambers configured to transfer different printing materials from other chambers to the chamber containing the build platform. Such an exemplary embodiment is shown with reference to the next figure.

[0159] Figure 13-3 Illustrate a system for printing three-dimensional objects using multiple materials according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, Figure 13-3 Depict a first chamber containing a first piston 1301 and a first printing material 1304. A second chamber contains a second piston 1302 and a second printing material 1305. Both the first and second chambers are adapted to be selectively in fluid communication with a third chamber containing a platform 1303. The selective fluid communication can be controlled by valves 1306 and 1307, such as one-way valves that allow the first or second piston to transfer the printing material to the third chamber containing the platform.

[0160] In an exemplary embodiment, valves 1306 and 1307 can be configured to control the feed rate of different materials. Platform 1303 is adapted to receive different materials during printing, and the system allows the same 3D printed object to be printed with different materials at different layer heights.

[0161] Turning now to the next set of figures, various structures and / or components can be exemplarily disposed inside each chamber and / or outside the piston and the platform in order to maintain a desired pressurized environment within the hydraulic system of the container assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, these structures or components inside each chamber facilitate an airtight seal. By way of example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, the airtight seal or pressurized environment can include treating the surfaces with materials that promote surface treatment, and / or employing structures such as O-rings.

[0162] Figures 14 to 16 Showing several views of an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, Figures 14 to 16 A cross-sectional view of a container chamber having a piston or platform 1401 is shown, with wall 1402 forming the wall of the chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in these views, the piston (or platform) can include at least one or more structures, such as an O-ring 1403 located inside the recessed wall 1404 of the piston 1401, to provide a tight seal that prevents the printing material, which is typically highly viscous, from spilling out.

[0163] As described above, the airtight seal or pressurized environment helps to maintain the printing material in an optimal state until the printing material is exhausted during the printing protocol. Additionally, another benefit of the present invention is that the pressurized environment is suitable for building or printing 3D objects using highly viscous materials. This is particularly helpful for certain applications, including but not limited to applications in the dental field. By way of example and without in any way limiting the scope of the present invention, in the dental field, it may be desirable to print objects such as dental crowns. The inability to properly handle highly viscous printing materials is a problem that the prior art has not fully addressed, and the present invention solves this problem through the hydraulic system of the can or container assembly described herein.

[0164] In an exemplary embodiment, the volume ratio of chambers 1 and 2 is 1:1; in some embodiments, different ratios can be used in order to optimize the efficiency of the building process as well as the quality of the 3D printed object being built. Thus, without departing from or limiting the scope of the present invention, the present invention can be practiced using chambers, chamber lengths, chamber volumes, and / or chamber numbers of similar or different sizes.

[0165] Turning now to the next set of figures, Figure 17 Illustrating a system for printing three-dimensional objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 18 Illustrating an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention that is configured to support or receive Figure 17The base support of the container component or cartridge of the system shown.

[0166] More specifically, Figure 17 A printing system 1700 is described that includes a container component 1701 for holding printing material to print a three-dimensional object; a piston 1702 that can move inside a first chamber of the container component 1701 and is configured to: actuate the movement of a platform inside a second chamber that is in fluid communication with the first chamber, and transfer a layer of the printing material stored in the first chamber to a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform.

[0167] In addition, the system 1700 includes at least one or more actuators 1703 coupled to a controller and configured to move the piston 1701 (e.g., via an arm 1704); and a curing light module 1705 in communication with the controller and configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least a portion of the layer of the printing material to the platform or to a previously cured layer of the printing material until a three-dimensional object is formed.

[0168] In some exemplary embodiments, the system 1700 includes a base support 1706 configured to receive a single cartridge or container component 1701. The base support can be a transparent base or at least have a transparent portion so that the curing light module 1705 can direct curing light into the printing area of the container component 1701.

[0169] As Figure 18 shown, the base support 1706 can have regions, such as region 1801, that optionally (but not necessarily) align with the base portion of the container component 1701; this can be useful for fixing the container component 1701 to the system 1700 during the printing process so that the container component does not move and the curing light can be precisely projected during the printing process.

[0170] Next, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 19 a similar system 1900 is described, and Figure 20 a similar base support 1901 configured to support or receive multiple container components or cartridges is described. An arm 1902 can be configured to actuate each of a plurality of pistons of a plurality of container components that can be fixed to the base support 1901 simultaneously. From Figure 20 the view, it can be understood that the base support 1901 suitable for receiving multiple container components need not be limited to a specific orientation - that is, the container components can be positioned along the width or length of the base support and can support multiple container components or cartridges in multiple orientations; the surface of the base support can have separate recessed portions, such as recessed regions 2001 and 2002, to align with one or more container components.

[0171] Now turning to the last figure, Figure 21 illustrates a washing system for a platform adapted to receive a system for printing three-dimensional objects according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include auxiliary washing components suitable for the platform components as discussed in the present disclosure. That is, a washing device 2100 for washing residual printing material from new 3D printed parts (and platforms) may be modified or designed to have holes 2101 adapted to align with a portion of the platform 1104 of a container assembly or cartridge according to the present invention, thereby exposing the platform 1104 (and the attached 3D printed object 1107, for example) to an internal chamber in which the parts may be exposed to a washing module 2102 for applying a solvent and / or a light module 2103 for applying post-curing light to post-cure the newly printed 3D printed parts after exposure.

[0173] In Figure 21-1 , exemplary steps for cleaning and solidifying a 3D object and steps for recovering the cleaning solvent are illustrated by a method 2110 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Method 2110 may include the steps of: heating a washing solvent (2111); pressurizing the washing solvent (2112) to generate high-temperature and high-pressure steam in a pipeline; and injecting the high-temperature and high-pressure steam onto the 3D object (2113). The steam carries away the viscosity of the remaining resin on the surface of the 3D object; the remaining resin gradually decreases and is finally removed from the surface of the 3D object by the steam.

[0174] In step 2114, hot air may be injected onto the 3D object; although the surface of the 3D object may not appear to have residual resin after exposure to high-temperature and high-pressure steam, there is still a possibility that some resin may remain dissolved in droplets on the surface of the 3D object. Therefore, the hot air injected in step 2114 may blow away these droplets (and the residual resin therein) from the surface of the 3D object and dry the cleaned 3D object.

[0175] At step 2115, after completing the cleaning steps 2111 to 2114, the 3D object may be solidified; the 3D object may be placed in a curing chamber for additional curing to obtain a 3D object with higher performance. As referred to in FIG. 21, this step may be performed in a single device that includes a chamber for exposing the 3D object to a cleaning protocol as well as a post-curing protocol - such as by a post-curing lamp, sufficient heat, etc. Alternatively, this step may use a different post-curing device.

[0176] At step 2116, the resin can solidify and be separated from any liquid waste; after the washing solvent vapor used cools and condenses into liquid waste, the liquid waste can be placed in a sunlight or UV environment where the resin solidifies, and the washing solvent is separated and recycled for reuse in the next washing process.

[0177] Therefore, at step 2117, the washing solvent can be recycled.

[0178] Figure 21-2 Illustrate an exemplary structure of the cleaning device according to the present invention. More specifically, the device 2118 is shown in more exemplary detail, including a pipeline composed of three parts: an intake pipeline 2118-1, a mixing pipeline 2118-2, and a transmission pipeline 2118-3. In the part of the intake pipeline 2118-1, high-temperature steam and high-temperature and high-pressure air are respectively input through two separate intake pipelines 2118-1(a) and 2118-1(b); in the part of the mixing pipeline 2118-1, the high-temperature steam from the intake pipeline 2118-1(a) and the high-temperature and high-pressure air from the intake pipeline 2118-1(b) are mixed together to form high-temperature and high-pressure steam; in the part of the transmission pipeline 2118-3, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam from the mixing pipeline 2118-2 is respectively transmitted to the transmission pipelines 2118-3(a), 2118-3(b), 2118-3(c), and 2118-3(d), and then it will enter the cleaning chamber 2118-6 through nozzles from different angles.

[0179] The solenoid valve 2118-4 includes valves 2118-4(a) and 2118-4(b), which are respectively configured to control the opening or closing of the intake pipelines 2118-1(a) and 2118-1(b). The relay 2118-5 can be configured to send commands to the solenoid valve 2118-4 to open or close the valves. The cleaning chamber 2118-6 can be, for example, a place where the cleaning steps 2113 and 2114 described in the reference Figure 21-1 are performed.

[0180] Now turn to Figure 21-3 , according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, illustrate the assembly relationship between the platform 2119-3 and the cleaning chamber 2119-6 in the cleaning device 2119. At the top surface of the cleaning chamber 2119-6, there is a groove 2119-4 that matches the shape of the platform 2119-3, and the outer edge of the groove 2119-4 extends upward to form a groove body 2119-2. At the bottom of the platform 2119-3, there is a 3D object that has solidified and been connected thereto through the printing or building process according to the present invention; the platform 2119-3 can be inserted into the cleaning chamber 2119-6 through the groove or hole 2119-4.

[0181] Now turn to the next figure,Figure 21-4 A schematic diagram showing the cleaning device 2120 in operation, particularly showing the internal structure of the cleaning chamber 2120-6. As previously described, after high-temperature and high-pressure steam flows through the transfer pipes 2120-3(a), 2120-3(b), 2120-3(c) and 2120-3(d), it will be sprayed into the cleaning chamber 2120-6 from different angles through the nozzles 2120-4(a), 2120-4(b), 2120-4(c) and 2120-4(d) respectively. When the platform 2119-3 can be installed at the pointed position and the system receives a "start" command from the user, the nozzles 2120-4 will spray a steam stream onto the 3D object 2119-2.

[0182] In addition, one or several windows 2120-7 can be provided on the side wall of the cleaning chamber 2120-6 to prevent the steam stream from accumulating inside the cleaning chamber and causing high pressure, which may lead to a decrease in the pressure of the steam stream sprayed from the nozzles 2120-4, or even prevent the steam from spraying out, thus affecting the cleaning effect.

[0183] It should be noted that the cleaning chamber 2120-6 is typically located inside a larger sealed chamber. After the steam stream is sprayed from the nozzles 2120-4 to clean the 3D object 2119-2, the steam stream can be transferred from the cleaning chamber 2120-6 to the outside through the windows 2120-7, but the steam stream always remains inside the sealed chamber. And after the cleaning process is completed, the sealed chamber can be cooled (or the steam stream will first be transferred to a specific container and then cooled), causing the steam containing the residual resin to condense into liquid waste. In the next step, the liquid waste can be further solidified and separated under UV light or sunlight, and thus the cleaning solvent can be separated from the liquid waste and recycled for further use.

[0184] Preferably, the nozzles 2120-4(a), 2120-4(b) and 2120-4(c) are arranged on the same horizontal plane and are spaced 120°, spraying a steam stream onto the 3D object 2119-2. In addition, the nozzle 2120-4(d) can be located directly below the 3D object 2119-2 and spray the steam stream upward onto the 3D object 2119-2. This nozzle arrangement can effectively clean the surface of the 3D object 2119-2, especially a dental crown.

[0185] In the next figure, Figure 21-5 A top view showing the cleaning device 2121, which respectively shows the transfer pipe 2121-3 and the cleaning chamber 2121-6. Figure 21-6 Shown in Figure 21-5 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning device 2121 at the A-A area in, and particularly showing a partial enlarged view at the B area. As Figure 21-6As shown, the groove 2121-4 not only extends upward to form the groove body 2121-2, but also extends inward to form the step 2121-1 to support the platform 2119-3. It should be noted that, however, the 3D object 2119-2 mounted on the bottom of the platform 2119-3 will pass through the groove 2121-4 and enter the cleaning chamber.

[0186] In an exemplary embodiment, the groove body 2121-2 is designed to be high enough. For example, the height of the groove body is 1 / 5, or 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2, or even higher than that of the platform, so as to enhance the stability of the platform and the connected 3D object during the cleaning process. In an exemplary embodiment, the inner diameter of the groove body and the outer diameter of the platform are designed to fit tightly together, such as an interference fit, so as to enhance the stability of the platform and the connected 3D object during the cleaning process. In an exemplary embodiment, the washing solvent during heating and pressurization is water. In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature of the steam flow at the nozzle is 110°C to 150°C, more preferably, the temperature is 120°C to 140°C, and even more preferably, the temperature is 130°C. In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure of the steam flow at the nozzle can be 0.03 Mpa to 0.2 Mpa, more preferably, the pressure is 0.05 Mpa to 0.1 Mpa, and even more preferably, the pressure is 0.08 Mpa.

[0187] In an exemplary embodiment, in addition to the two solenoid valves in the intake pipe, there are four additional solenoid valves (not shown) installed on the transfer pipe. These valves can be opened and / or closed in a certain order to gradually clean the respective surfaces of the 3D object, thereby avoiding interference between the steam flows and improving the cleaning effect.

[0188] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 21-8 , Figure 21-9 and Figure 21-10 illustrated, the cleaning device 2122 can be configured with a rotating structure. As Figure 21-8 shown, during the cleaning process, the platform 713 and the connected 3D object 712 rotate continuously under the drive of the motor 715. The platform 713 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 715 through the coupling sleeve 714.

[0189] In this exemplary embodiment, since the platform 713 and the connected 3D object 712 can rotate continuously around the Z axis, it may not be necessary to arrange the nozzles at a certain distance or angle.

[0190] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 700 may include nozzles (not shown) at the ends of the transfer pipes 703(a) at the bottom and nozzles (not shown) at the ends of the transfer pipes 703(b) at the side walls to clean the bottom and sides of the 3D object 712. As the 3D object 712 rotates, the residual resin held on the side surfaces will be removed. If desired, the cleaning device 700 may include additional nozzles (not shown) at the ends of the transfer pipes 703(c) to clean the top of the 3D object 712.

[0191] Figure 21-9 , Figure 21-10 Separate exploded views and cross-sectional views of the cleaning device 700 are shown for reference. As Figure 21-10 shown, the output shafts of the platform 713 and the motor 715 may be tightly connected together to the coupling sleeve 714, for example, as an interference fit. Alternatively, a mechanical locking method such as threading or keyways may also be used.

[0192] Although the basic embodiments have been described above, the following are some alternative / optional embodiments: Optionally, the inner diameter of the pipe may be 5 mm and the diameter of the nozzle may be 1.8 mm to reduce the kinetic energy loss of the steam flow. The pipe may be made of fluororubber that is resistant to high temperature and high pressure to improve its service life. Optionally, the cleaning chamber may include several grooves to clean several 3D objects together and improve the cleaning efficiency. Alternatively, the grooves may be replaced with a cage (as disclosed in US11279089B2 of SprintRay, Inc.). After the user removes several 3D objects and places them in the cage, the cleaning device will eject a steam flow to clean the 3D objects together, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency. Optionally, the material of the cleaning chamber may be plastic or metal.

[0193] In an exemplary embodiment, the washing solvent may be organic. In an exemplary embodiment, the cleaning process may be completed without any solvent, relying only on high-temperature and high-pressure air to achieve cleaning.

[0194] Optionally, the cleaning device may be modified to rotate the support base by driving the rotation of the platform with a motor. For example, the grooves may be designed as components that move independently of the cleaning chamber and may be driven to rotate by a motor. The platform may be configured to rotate synchronously with the grooves.

[0195] Now turning to the next figure, Figure 22 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a container assembly, specifically the body of the container assembly, which improves the build or print speed and simplifies the container assembly. More specifically, this embodiment is similar to the reference Figure 3-1 and Figure 3-2Described embodiments, where the substrate 112 forms the bottom part of the housing or body 11, which is preferably transparent; similarly, as explained above, the substrate 112 can be replaced by a flexible film. As described above, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the flexible film can be disposed above the top surface of the substrate 112 (e.g., glass), such that the film and the substrate 112 together form the bottom part of the body 11 - this configuration of the hydraulic device results in an increased printing speed and also facilitates transportation as a single product (i.e., the container assembly serves as a printing material container, as well as a platform and a printing material tank, all in one device or product). However, a potential drawback of this configuration is that, in the absence of any means to attach or stably position the film, disposing the flexible film above the substrate 112 (e.g., glass) can result in undesired deformation during interaction with the fluid and / or adhesion forces during operation, which may lead to the formation of an irregular surface of the film that holds the printing material. If this occurs, then the deformation may undesirably reduce the accuracy of the 3D object and may even result in printing failure.

[0196] Therefore, Figure 22 An exemplary embodiment is illustrated, where an adhesive material 2201 is applied between the film 17 and the glass 112 in order to tightly fix the film 17 to the glass 112 and additionally prevent other creep deformations. In some exemplary embodiments, the adhesive material 2201 can be a silicone adhesive (e.g., such as a PDMS adhesive), a UV adhesive, or any suitable transparent adhesive capable of attaching the film 17 on top of the glass 112.

[0197] Figures 23-1 to 23-4 An exemplary embodiment of the piston is illustrated, and more specifically, different shapes of pistons that can be employed according to the present invention are illustrated. For example and without limiting the scope of the present invention in any way, reference Figure 5 and Figure 10 The embodiments shown and discussed show a generally cylindrical piston forming the platform 1004. In some exemplary embodiments, as Figures 23-1 to 23-3 illustrated, other shapes can be employed. These other shapes, some polygonal, other elliptical, rectangular, oblong, or shapes with different dimensions, such as Figure 23-2 the shape shown, can provide the advantage of preventing minor rotations inside the container assembly, which may undesirably lead to a series of uncontrolled consequences, such as a reduction in the accuracy of the 3D object or even complete printing failure.

[0198] Therefore, in some exemplary embodiments, a regular prism structure can be employed, for example, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a quadrangular prism, etc. It is worth noting that traditional O-ring seals may not be suitable for these shapes. Similarly, Figure 23-2A regular prismatic structure is also shown. The term "regular" specifically means that the cross-section is a simple geometric shape and the cross-sectional area is easy to calculate; the benefit of this configuration is that the manufacturer can easily ensure and adjust the relative cross-sectional area between the first chamber and the second chamber. In Figure 23-2 an elliptical cylindrical piston is provided; this shape is not only useful for preventing unwanted rotation, but also suitable for applying a more typical O-ring seal. Figure 23-3 An irregular prismatic structure with a water droplet shape is shown; this shape can better conform to the decorative industrial design of the piston according to the present invention. Figure 23-4 Explanation of supplement Figures 23-1 to 23-3 A series of pistons with the cross-sections as described.

[0199] Figure 23-5 Exemplary guiding structures that can be adopted according to the present invention are illustrated. More specifically, this view shows one or more exemplary guiding structures 2301, which can be provided or formed on the contact surface between the side wall of the chamber and the piston; this configuration helps to prevent the unwanted rotation of the platform - thus, in some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, according to the present invention, guiding or anti-rotation structures can be provided along the surface of the support structure (such as the piston or the platform) or the walls with which these structures are aligned. As Figure 23-5 shown, the guiding structure 2301 can include several raised linear ribs on the outer surface of the piston and / or several linear grooves on the chamber.

[0200] Figures 24-1 to 24-3 The main body configuration of the container assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. More specifically, this view shows another embodiment of the container assembly or the hydraulic device according to the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the platform 16 is located inside the piston 15, where the piston 15 and the platform 16 are concentrically positioned; the piston 15 is formed as a hollow cylindrical structure that slidably receives the platform 16 inside. Both the piston 15 and the platform 16 are located inside the housing 11 that houses the entire structure. The main body of the hydraulic device is generally a hollow structure, and the hollow area is divided by the separator 111 into an O-ring shaped chamber 12 (i.e., the spare resin or printing material chamber) and a printing chamber 13. One or more channels, such as channel 14, can be formed at the bottom of the separator 111 to fluidly connect the chamber 12 and the chamber 13. In the exemplary embodiment, the sealing structure as described in the above embodiment can be adopted, and the platform can have the varying shapes as described above. In some exemplary embodiments, the separator 111 may not be included, such that the hollow area can form an undivided chamber; that is, there is no division between the spare chamber 12 and the printing chamber 13.

[0201] On the contrary, the platform 16 can be outside the piston 15, and the 3D object can be cured below the O-ring shaped lower surface of the platform 16. Figure 24-1 and Figure 24-3Both of the designs shown are beneficial for reducing the size of the hydraulic device and allow for the arrangement and use of more devices on the base support (as referenced Figure 20 as described). Figures 24-4 to 24-5 A cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the main body of a container assembly according to an embodiment shown in Figure 24-1 . Figures 24-6 to 24-9 A description of the configuration of the main body of a container assembly according to an embodiment shown in Figure 24-1 , except that this configuration does not include the use of a separator 111; instead, chambers 12 and 13 are formed by a closely positioned piston 15 and a platform 16. As in the previous embodiment, chamber 13 can extend into the area or chamber formed between the outer concentric cylinder forming piston 15 and a piston 16 that moves along the length of piston 15, and thus allows the printing material to be transferred into this area or chamber 13 therein.

[0202] Figure 25 A description of a system according to an exemplary embodiment, which is similar to the embodiment shown and described in reference Figures 24-1 to 24-2 .

[0203] Now turning to the next figure, Figure 26 A description of an exemplary hydraulic printing device or container assembly 2600, which includes several structures that facilitate an anti-rotation function - that is, preventing its components from rotating in an undesired manner; Figure 27 A description of its exploded view; and Figure 28 A close-up view of the structure along the sidewall of the chamber, which facilitates air flow to allow movement regardless of any negative pressure generated from the printing process.

[0204] In some exemplary embodiments, the container assembly 2600 includes a piston 15, a platform 16, chambers 12 and 13, a substrate 112, and several sealing rings 18, as described in the previous embodiments. However, in an exemplary embodiment, such as the embodiment shown in these views, the main body of chamber 13 additionally includes an anti-rotation portion 131, which can be formed as a non-cylindrical chamber. For example and without departing from or limiting the scope of the present invention, chamber 13 can include a first portion having a circular cross-section that extends a first length along the axis of the chamber, and a non-circular cross-section that extends a second length along the axis of the chamber; by way of example, the second length can have an elliptical cross-section. Additionally, the platform 16 can include a corresponding structure; this can consist of an elliptical cap 161 and a cylinder (i.e., a body having a circular cross-section), the elliptical cap 161 ensuring that the platform 16 cannot rotate during the printing process, and the cylinder ensuring a tight alignment of the platform with the portion of chamber 13 having a circular cross-section.

[0205] Similar to the above-described embodiments, the container assembly 2600 can be a single-use ink cartridge; that is, a disposable ink cartridge that can be used once and then the empty cartridge can be discarded, or preferably recycled, or sent to a service provider for refilling. In other exemplary embodiments, the container assembly 2600 can be an ink cartridge that is not necessarily disposable and can be refilled by the end user for reuse.

[0206] In an exemplary embodiment, to conveniently control the relative cross-sectional area and ensure the sealing effect, the main body of the platform 16 is still provided as a cylinder and mates with the cylindrical portion 132 of the chamber body for sealing. In some exemplary embodiments, the relative cross-sectional areas of the chambers 12 and 13 can be 1:1. In an exemplary embodiment, the top portion of the platform 16 can include a cap 161, which can further include a handle portion 162 that is adapted for the end user to easily pull out the platform 16 after the printing process is completed in order to expose the 3D printed part built on the build surface of the platform 16, as discussed above.

[0207] In an exemplary embodiment, the container assembly 2600 is a single-use or disposable (i.e., recyclable) ink cartridge that is partially defined by a monolithic housing that houses a plurality of chambers adapted to hydraulically transfer printing material from a first chamber that primarily stores the printing material to a second chamber in which a layer of the printing material can be disposed above a platform within the second chamber for building a 3D object thereon. In an exemplary embodiment, the monolithic, single-use or disposable ink cartridge is pre-filled with a printing material such as a photosensitive resin that is stored and sealed inside the ink cartridge until it is unsealed before or during use of the ink cartridge. After building a 3D object on the platform, the 3D object is removed from the platform and the ink cartridge can be discarded.

[0208] The container assembly 2600 facilitates the introduction of the build material for the 3D object into the build chamber 16 by applying pressure; for example, positive pressure (i.e., the positive pressure applied to the piston 15 in this case) facilitates the introduction (or transfer) of the build material into the build chamber 16 in which the build material is exposed to curing light. Other structures employed (such as the non-cylindrical portions, negative pressure chambers or vent holes 19 in this exemplary embodiment) are adapted to ensure a sealed and controlled environment that both protects the efficacy of the build material before use and facilitates the design of the additive manufacturing system. Of course, as demonstrated from the present disclosure and the embodiments discussed throughout, the introduction of the build material can be achieved by a pushing or pulling structure, by pressing down or pressing up, by injection or by extrusion, or can be any other means of applying pressure in order to transfer, move, inject or otherwise introduce the build material into the build chamber of the controlled environment.

[0209] Figure 29Shows a top view of the ink cartridge or container assembly 2600; Figure 30 Shows a cross-sectional view thereof; and Figure 31 Additionally shows a close-up view of a side wall having structural components adapted to eliminate or minimize the undesirable effects of negative pressure that can form within the chamber interior of chamber 13.

[0210] As Figure 29 and Figure 30 depicted, due to the different shapes of the cap 161 and the body of the platform 16, during the printing process, when the platform 16 is actuated upward, a negative pressure chamber 21 can form at the junction of the anti-rotation portion 131 and the cylindrical portion 132 (i.e., having a circular cross-section). The negative pressure will undesirably impede the movement of the platform 16 and affect the printing process; to solve this problem, the anti-rotation portion 131 provides several vertical linear vent holes 19 to facilitate the flow of air, as Figure 28 shown in the close-up view of.

[0211] Thus, a container assembly for printing 3D objects according to the present invention may include: a housing that houses a first chamber adapted to store printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform; a passage that connects the side wall of the first chamber to the side wall of the second chamber within the housing such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure that is movable within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform for receiving curing light for curing a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform in order to build a 3D object on the platform.

[0212] In some embodiments, the second chamber is adapted to restrict or prevent rotation of the platform; the second chamber may be a non-cylindrical chamber or have a structure that prevents or restricts rotation of the platform. The second chamber may include a circular cross-section extending a first length along the axis of the second chamber and a non-circular cross-section extending a second length along the axis of the second chamber.

[0213] The platform may include a cylindrical portion adapted to align with the circular cross-section extending a first length along the axis of the second chamber. The platform may additionally include a portion having a non-circular cross-section adapted to align with the non-circular cross-section of the second chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, the platform includes a seal adapted to airtight seal the circular cross-section extending a first length along the axis of the second chamber. In some exemplary embodiments, the second chamber includes one or more structures along one or more side walls adapted to relieve negative pressure during movement of the platform - such as negative pressure chambers and / or vent holes along one or more side walls of the second chamber, etc.

[0214] In an exemplary embodiment, a container assembly for printing a 3D object may include: a disposable outer shell that houses a first chamber adapted to hermetically store a printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform, wherein the second chamber is adapted to restrict or prevent rotation of the platform; a channel that connects the sidewall of the first chamber to the sidewall of the second chamber within the disposable outer shell such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure capable of moving within the first chamber and adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform for receiving curing light for curing a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform in order to build a 3D object on the platform.

[0215] Turning now to the next set of figures, Figures 32 to 36-1 FIGS. 36-2 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention, which system may provide improved effective sealing performance and fit, eliminate the need for additional seals, and provide smoother linear movement and reduced drag during a printing operation.

[0216] In the exemplary embodiment shown in these views, a disclosed system 3200; according to the present invention, system 3200 may employ a printing device that includes a static support structure such as a hoop or arm 8 adapted to support an actuation or movement device adapted to actuate or move a piston of a container assembly or cartridge 3201. In an exemplary embodiment, the piston may be threaded to engage the cartridge 3201. The piston may be connected to an output shaft of a moving unit, such as a device with a motor such as - without limiting the scope of the present invention - a stepper motor; or the piston may be connected to a stepper motor via a connector. In addition to moving along the longitudinal axis of the chamber, the piston may additionally be adapted to rotate with the stepper motor and move downward, for example, although not necessarily in synchronization with the motor, in order to transfer a photosensitive resin or printing material from chamber 12 to chamber 13 within the cartridge 3201.

[0217] Figure 32 An isometric side view of a 3D printer 3210 is shown with a cartridge 3201 coupled to a support surface of the 3D printer 3210. Figure 33 The cartridge 3201 coupled to an actuator 82 is described in more detail. As Figure 32 and Figure 33 depicted, the 3D printer 3210 includes an arm 8 - by way of non-limiting example, which is shown as a hoop support structure to which a motor 82 may be coupled and fixed. A connector 83 may be employed to effectively transfer torque from the output shaft of the motor to the cartridge 3201 to facilitate rotation of the piston. It should be understood that in some cases, the use of the connector 83 may not be necessary and the piston of a hydraulic printing device may instead be directly connected to the output shaft of the motor 82.

[0218] Figure 34 Explain the exploded view of the ink cartridge 3201. Figure 35 Explain the perspective view of the ink cartridge 3201 without a piston; Figure 36-1 and Figure 36-2 Explain its side view and cross-sectional view. As depicted in these views, the ink cartridge 3201 may include a threaded piston 15 and a threaded chamber 12, and the piston 15 is arranged at its upper part with one or several grooves designed to engage with the convex edge of the connector 83; the platform of the device is not shown in these views.

[0219] In an exemplary embodiment of the system 3200, the structural component (such as the arm 8) that fixes the motor adapted to move the piston 15 remains stationary, while the connector 82 further includes a spring 831 to apply pressure on the piston 15, thereby facilitating the linear movement of the piston 15 along the z-axis. Before starting the printing process, the spring 831 can be pre-compressed to ensure optimal performance. During the printing process, when the motor 82 rotates, it pushes the piston 15 along a threaded path, where the spring 831 continuously applies a force on the piston, gradually releasing the tension until the printing is completed. Preferably, the motor can be a stepper motor.

[0220] In some alternative embodiments, the connector 83 or its spring 831 can be omitted. Instead, another stepper motor can be employed to facilitate the movement of the piston along the z-axis. However, the motor 82, the threaded piston 15, and the threaded chamber 15 can still work as described above.

[0221] Now turn to the next set of figures, Figure 37 and Figure 38 Explain the system 3700, which includes a 3D printing device 3710 employing a dynamic support structure adapted to move the structure on the container assembly for printing a 3D object, and the container assembly can be a disposable or single-use ink cartridge. This embodiment is similar to Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19An embodiment, where the 3D printing device 3710 includes a housing 3701 having a base or support surface 3702 generally on the top region of the device 3710 configured to receive one or more container components such as the container component 3703. The support surface 3702 is adapted to include a transparent base or at least have a transparent portion 3704 such that a curing light module (not shown in this view) housed inside the housing 3701 can direct the curing light into the printing area of the container component or the container component 3703. The support surface 3702 may have areas that are optionally but not necessarily aligned with the base portion of the container component 3703; this can be useful for securing the container component 3703 and multiple other similar container components or 3D printing cartridges to the 3D printing device 3710 during the printing process such that each container component or cartridge is secured and does not move undesirably to interrupt the printing process - i.e., such that the curing light can be precisely projected during the printing process.

[0222] In addition, a dynamic or movable structure, such as a moving or actuating arm or hoop 3705, is adapted to move the structure of the container component in the same manner as the embodiments discussed above, such as a piston; that is, the 3D printing device 3710 employs the hoop 3705 instead of the motor 83 in order to facilitate the 3D printing process - i.e., as can be understood from Figure 38 When the hoop 3705 moves downward, thus pressing down on each piston of one or more cartridges that can be fixed to the support surface 3702 of the 3D printing device 3710, the 3D printing material stored in the one or more cartridges is transferred into each chamber of each cartridge, and at least one layer is set on the printing area between the surface of the window of each cartridge and the platform. The 3D printing device 3710 emits curing light through the transparent portion 3704 and the windows of one or more cartridges to cure the layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a previously cured layer of the printing material cured onto the platform of each cartridge in order to build a 3D object inside each of the one or more cartridges.

[0223] The 3D printing device 3710 may include a user interface, such as UI 3706, which may include physical buttons to activate or otherwise initiate the printing process of a single cartridge; similarly, the UI 3706 may include indicators to facilitate use. In an exemplary embodiment, a display or a touchscreen user interface, such as the touchscreen 3707, may be employed to enable a user to interact with the 3D printing device 3710.

[0224] In an exemplary embodiment, each cartridge may be individually packaged, or multiple cartridges may be packaged in batches. For example, Figures 39 to 41 depicts a container or package, such as the container component 3703, that can be sealed and is adapted to hold three single-use or disposable cartridges therein.

[0225] Now turn to the next set of figures: Figure 42 An isometric view of the components of a 3D printer to which a container assembly is coupled in an exemplary embodiment; and Figure 43 An isometric view showing it from another angle. As Figure 42 and 43 shown, the 3D printing system includes a container assembly 1, a light engine 4, a mounting base 7, and a hoop or arm 8. The mounting base 7 includes: a holding frame 71 having several windows configured to position the container assembly 1; a transparent substrate 72 configured to provide a flat plane and support the holding frame 71 and the container assembly 1; a substrate frame 73 including large openings that allow light to pass through and several edges that hold the transparent substrate 72 firmly in place; a bracket chassis 74; and a motor 75 that can be mounted on the bracket chassis 74 and is configured to actuate the arm 8 in an upward or downward direction through several transmission mechanisms.

[0226] During the printing process, the curing light from the light engine 4 sequentially passes through the bracket chassis 74, the substrate frame 73, the transparent substrate 72, and the windows / openings / paths of the holding frame 71, and finally forms a pattern on the bottom of the container assembly 1.

[0227] The arm 8 includes several pistons 81; when the arm 8 is actuated downward, the pistons 81 apply pressure to the piston 15 of the container assembly 1 to transfer (i.e., and optionally continuously transfer) the printing material from the reserve chamber 12 to the printing chamber 13.

[0228] Figure 44 A top view of the 3D printer is shown, Figure 45 showing a cross-sectional view along the Figure 44 A-A axis, and Figure 46 showing a close-up view of the area B as Figure 45 shown. As Figure 37 and Figure 38 shown, a housing such as the housing 3701 may be adapted to accommodate the controller, motor, and light-emitting module of the system.

[0229] As Figure 45 and 46 shown, the 3D printer further includes a transparent surface heater 101, which is mounted on and tightly connected to the transparent substrate 72.

[0230] When current is applied to the heater 101, the heater 101 encounters resistance and gets hot. Then, the heat generated by the heater 101 is transferred to the transparent substrate 72, which serves as a medium to evenly distribute the heat on its surface and then transfer the heat to the high-viscosity resin.

[0231] Preferably, the heater 101 can be selected as a conductive material, especially for example an indium tin oxide (ITO) coating. Figure 47 Shows a top view of the working surface of a 3D printer in an exemplary embodiment, which illustrates the arrangement of the ITO coating 101(a), while Figure 48 shows another arrangement.

[0232] Since the ITO coating 101(a) allows the curing light to pass through, it can be directly installed under the transparent substrate 72 without worrying about the heater blocking the light path. In Figure 47 the arrangement shown, the ITO coating 101(a) covers at least the entire area of all the container components 1, so that the heated resin can be transferred more smoothly from the spare chamber 12 to the printing chamber 13; but in some cases, the ITO coating 101(a) can only cover the areas of all the printing chambers 13 and the channels 14, as Figure 48 shown, which can not only reduce costs but also be effective.

[0233] In addition, compared with other heating methods, the ITO coating 101(a) provides more stable and uniform heat to the resin contained in the container components. Preferably, the heater 101 can have a built-in temperature sensor or thermostat to regulate the heat output, and these controls ensure that the substance being heated remains within the desired temperature range. In some exemplary embodiments, the temperature range of the heater is 40 °C to 60 °C, preferably 48 °C to 52 °C.

[0234] Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the ITO coating can be installed above the transparent substrate 72, and its top surface is in direct contact with the bottom of the container component 1. This arrangement allows heat to be transferred more effectively to the hydraulic system.

[0235] Figure 49 Shows a cross-sectional view of this arrangement in the above embodiment. Figure 50 Shows an isometric view of the working surface of a 3D printer with an adapter 76 in an exemplary embodiment.

[0236] As Figure 50 shown, the adapter 76 is connected to the holding frame 71 and is configured to provide a stable position for the container component 1. This configuration helps to ensure that the container component 1 is firmly held in place during the printing process. It should be noted that the adapter 76 can be a through structure or can include a transparent bottom.

[0237] Figure 51 Shows the adapter 76 with several heaters 101(b). Additionally, as Figure 52As shown, the heater 101(b) can be attached to the wall of the adapter 76, but there is no limit to the number of available heaters 101(b), and there is no limit to whether the heater 101(b) is transparent. The heater 101(b) can include, but is not limited to, any flexible heater or any other type of surface contact heater. If the adapter 76 includes a transparent bottom, then the heater 101(b) can also be installed on the bottom of the adapter 76. Similarly, the bottom heater 101(b) should also be transparent to allow the curing light to pass through. Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the heater 101(c) can be integrated into the arm 8 or the hoop piston 81.

[0238] Figure 52 Schematic diagrams showing different arrangements of the heater 101(c) in exemplary embodiments. During the printing process, there is a predetermined period during which the hoop piston 81 will contact the piston 15 and apply pressure to it. This allows heat to be transferred from the arm 8 or the hoop piston 81 to the high-viscosity resin through the piston 15. In some cases, the arm 8 can be actuated downward before the start of printing, causing the hoop piston 81 to contact the piston 15 and allowing the high-viscosity resin to be heated for a longer predetermined period. The heater 101(c) can include, but is not limited to, any flexible heater or any plug-in heater. Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the heater 101(c) and its power connector can be integrated into the container assembly 1.

[0239] Figure 53 and Figure 54 Cross-sectional view and close-up view showing another arrangement of the heater 101(d) integrated into the piston 15. In this exemplary embodiment, the heater 101(d) is located at the end near the high-viscosity resin 2, so that heat can be transferred more effectively. The piston 15 and the piston 81 of the arm 8 can additionally include a power connector, allowing current to be transmitted from the piston 81 to the container assembly 1 via wired or wireless means. The above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only. In fact, the output power connector 102(a) can be integrated into some other locations, such as the wall of the adapter 76, the top surface of the transparent substrate 72, or any other suitable location. Similarly, the input power connector 102(b) is not limited to being integrated into the piston 15 of the container assembly 1. The heater 101(d) can include, but is not limited to, any plug-in heater, flexible heater, or any other type of surface contact heater.

[0240] Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, if the heater 101(e) is opaque (non-transparent), then it cannot be installed below the printing area to avoid interfering with the light path. However, the heater 101(e) can still be installed above / below the transparent substrate 72 outside the printing area.

[0241] Figure 55A top view of the working surface of a 3D printer in an exemplary embodiment is shown, which illustrates the arrangement of the opaque heater 101(e). During printing, when the heat generated by the heater 101(e) will be transferred to the high-viscosity resin through the transparent substrate 72. Alternatively, in some examples, the heater 101 may be a non-contact heater mounted on the mounting base 7.

[0242] Figure 56 A cross-sectional view and a close-up view of the container assembly 1 and the mounting base 7 in an exemplary embodiment are shown, which illustrate the arrangement of the non-contact heater. In the exemplary embodiment as Figure 56 depicted, the non-contact heater may be a hot air blower for the container assembly 1. The hot air blower sucks ambient air from the surrounding internal space through the air inlet, uses the fan 111 to generate an air flow, and pushes the air flow 112 towards the transparent substrate 72 below the container assembly 1. Then, the heat will be transferred to the high-viscosity resin located in the container assembly 1. The non-contact heater includes but is not limited to any blower, any infrared heater or any indirect contact heater. The placement of the non-contact heater is not restricted and may be positioned from the top, especially for the container assembly 1 for hot air delivery.

[0243] The heating device can be used to heat the pre-cured resin contained in the container assembly, thereby enhancing its fluidity and improving the overall printing process. By improving the fluidity of the resin, the printing resolution is enhanced, the printing speed is increased, and the success rate of the printing process is raised. Therefore, using a heating device within the container assembly can achieve a more efficient and effective printing process.

[0244] In the embodiment as Figures 42 to 46 depicted, or in any other embodiment where heat is conducted through a transparent substrate, the biggest challenge is the cracking of the substrate (such as glass) during the heating process. The glass acts as a substrate sheet under the container assembly, and we use it to conduct heat through the container assembly to the resin. Glass cracking depends on various factors, including the type and thickness of the glass, the applied temperature gradient, and the stress tolerance of the glass. Substrate glass is known for its poor thermal conductivity, which means it distributes heat unevenly. When a local area of the glass is heated while the surrounding areas remain cooler, thermal stress can accumulate within the glass. This stress can cause the glass to crack or even break.

[0245] To solve this problem, several methods can be adopted: The target temperature can be set to a certain threshold to reduce the risk of cracking. A flexible heater and glass with a similar coefficient of thermal expansion can be utilized; mismatched coefficients may generate additional stress points, increasing the likelihood of cracking. Additionally, by using gradual heating or a temperature control mechanism, rapid and uneven temperature changes can be avoided to reduce the stress on the glass. Furthermore, thicker glass can be used to increase crack resistance. Additionally, an additional heating plate with high thermal conductivity can be installed to dissipate or transfer the accumulated heat. In some exemplary embodiments, the 3D printer can employ a heating plate with high thermal conductivity to dissipate or transfer heat to the container assembly.

[0246] Therefore, a system for printing 3D objects according to the present invention may include: a controller; a container assembly adapted to hermetically store printing materials, which includes: a housing that houses a first chamber adapted to store printing materials and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform; a channel that connects the sidewall of the first chamber to the sidewall of the second chamber within the housing such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure that can move within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing materials from the first chamber to the printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform; a motor that is coupled to the controller and is configured to move the structure; and a light-emitting module that communicates with the controller and is configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least the layer of printing materials onto the platform or onto the cured layer of printing materials on the platform in order to build a 3D object on the platform.

[0247] In some exemplary embodiments, an arm may be coupled to the motor and is adapted to press against the structure of the container assembly. The housing for the controller, the motor, and the light-emitting module may include a holding frame provided on the outer surface of the housing and adapted to receive the container assembly. The housing may include one or more user interface devices, including but not limited to a touchscreen interface provided on the exterior of the housing.

[0248] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may additionally include a heating module adapted to heat the printing materials inside the container assembly. The heating module may include a transparent surface heater provided above a portion of the holding frame. The heating module may include a layer composed of an indium tin oxide (ITO) coating. The heating module may include an adapter removably coupled to the holding frame, the adapter having a heating element provided on the wall of the adapter. The heating module may include a heating element provided above the arm and adapted to transfer heat to the container assembly.

[0249] The system according to the present invention can be said to be configured to introduce or inject an additive manufacturing material to build a 3D object. For example, by introducing an additive manufacturing material (i.e., 3D printing material) into a build chamber according to the present invention, a method for replenishing the additive manufacturing material can be facilitated; it is characterized by the process of introducing the build material into the build chamber by applying a positive pressure. The build chamber can be hermetically sealed on at least three sides, thus ensuring a controlled environment as discussed above. The fourth side of the build chamber can be designed to be integrated with a build material feed path, thus facilitating the seamless and efficient transfer of the manufacturing material into the build chamber.

[0250] As described above, referring to the various figures throughout this disclosure, the second chamber adapted to receive the platform is the build chamber, which is adapted to receive, via the application of a certain pressure (such as positive pressure), the build material introduced into the build chamber via the feed path. Thus, many embodiments, adaptations, or configurations can be made. In these different embodiments, building a 3D object in the build chamber is achieved by applying a pressure (such as positive pressure) to facilitate the introduction of the build material into the build chamber, in which the build material is exposed to curing light.

[0251] Therefore, according to the present invention, a method for introducing an additive manufacturing material to build a 3D object may include the steps of: providing a build chamber having a plurality of walls, the plurality of walls including a wall common with a second chamber adapted to hold the build material, the plurality of walls being sealed to ensure a controlled environment; and introducing the build material into the build chamber via the feed path by applying a positive pressure to facilitate building a 3D object in the build chamber.

[0252] One of the many advantages of the present invention is that the controlled environment generated by a hydraulic device - for example, an airtight sealed container assembly according to the present invention - allows the building or printing process to be performed with the container assembly in any orientation; the container assembly can be inverted, on one side, positioned at an angle - without limitation - but the controlled environment therein will still allow the building process to be achieved. This facilitates - various designs for additive manufacturing systems and devices (i.e., 3D printers, etc.) can be incorporated according to the needs of the environment in which the device according to the present invention is desired to be used.

[0253] Figures 58 to 59 Illustrate different possible positions or orientations of the hydraulic device according to the present invention to illustrate this benefit. The controlled environment in which the build material or 3D printing material is stored within the container assembly eliminates the need to position the "tank" of the system according to the present invention in any particular orientation. In traditional additive manufacturing systems, especially those using resins, a horizontal orientation may be required to avoid spillage and allow layers to be printed precisely onto the platform. In contrast, the present invention eliminates this limitation by employing a controlled environment within the container assembly.

[0254] In some exemplary embodiments, for example, a system 5800 for constructing a 3D object may include a holding frame 5802 adapted to hold a container assembly 5801 upside down, as Figure 58 shown. In some exemplary embodiments, a system 5900 for constructing a 3D object may include a holding frame 5902 adapted to hold a container assembly 5901 at an angle or angled position as Figure 59 shown.

[0255] As can be understood from the present disclosure, alternative configurations for practicing the present invention may be made. For example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, Figures 60 to 64 a system is described in which spring means and a motor may be employed to facilitate movement of the container assembly.

[0256] In this embodiment, according to the present invention, a system 6000 is shown having a spring 6001 on an arm 6002 with a structure 6006 (such as a piston, etc.) coupled to a container assembly 6003. Another arm 6004 coupled to a motor or actuator module 6005 may be coupled to a platform of the container assembly. In such a system, the following method may be performed: at step (1), the arm 6002 may be positioned (automatically, mechanically, or manually) such that the spring 6001 may be in a "loaded" position; in step (2), the spring is loaded, but it should be noted that since the motor or actuator module 6005 has not been activated, the arm 6004 prevents movement of the structure 6006 (i.e., the hydraulic system within the container assembly 6003 is a controlled system such that there is no movement (and thus transfer of the build material in the storage chamber is not achievable); in step (3), the motor or actuator module 6005 may be deployed such that sufficient movement of the arm 6004 along the z-axis is facilitated, thus allowing the loaded spring 6001 to apply positive pressure and transfer or introduce the build material into the build chamber of the container assembly 6003. It should be noted that, as with other embodiments described in the present disclosure, the z-axis along the build platform is passive as it is the applied positive pressure that introduces or transfers the build material into the build chamber of the moving platform.

[0257] Figures 65 to 68 Another system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention is described. In this system 6500, the build chamber may be coupled to a build material source (such as a pressurized container, or a container with a controlled environment, including, for example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, an extrudable container.

[0258] Accordingly, in the embodiments shown in these figures, a single-chamber ink cartridge or container assembly 6501 may be employed. In some embodiments of this configuration, the resin liquid may be compressed by a liquid actuation system 6502, which may be a pump, an air compressor, etc. The resin container 6503 may include a tube 6504 connected to the liquid actuation system 6502; the liquid resin may be introduced into the build chamber through a syringe 6505. In some embodiments, as Figure 68 shown in the cross-sectional view of, the container 6503 may be squeezable, and the liquid actuation system 6502 may simply squeeze the container 6503 to inject or otherwise introduce the build material into a single cavity or chamber of the container assembly 6501.

[0259] Figure 69 Illustrate a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In this embodiment, the system 6900 includes a storage chamber 6901, where a structure such as a piston may be replaced by a non-piston-based precision hydraulic pump 6902 (e.g., an external / internal gear pump, a rotary vane pump, a cycloidal pump, a screw pump, etc.). The precision hydraulic pump 6902 may be configured to control the pressure in the storage chamber 6903 to hydraulically actuated the build platform in the build chamber.

[0260] Figure 70 Illustrate a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In this embodiment, the system 7000 includes a storage chamber 7001, where a structure such as a piston may be eliminated; the build platform 7002 is movably sealed in the build chamber 7003 such that it acts as a hydraulic piston, and the build platform is gradually lifted upward (e.g., using a motor M) to hydraulically suck the resin layer by layer from the left chamber into the right chamber. Without limiting the scope of the present invention, this variant may include a follower seal 7004 in the storage chamber, which follows the top level of the resin to prevent it from being exposed to air.

[0261] As can be understood, many embodiments, adaptations, or configurations can be made. In various embodiments, building a 3D object in the build chamber is achieved by applying pressure (such as positive pressure) to facilitate the introduction of the build material into the build chamber, where the build material is exposed to curing light. The structures employed are adapted to ensure a sealed controlled environment, which both protects the efficacy of the build material before use and facilitates the design of the additive manufacturing system.

[0262] Hydraulic 3D printing systems and methods have been described. For purposes of illustration and disclosure, the foregoing description of various exemplary embodiments of the present invention has been presented. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations can be made in light of the above teachings without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A container assembly for printing three-dimensional (3D) objects, comprising: a housing that houses a first chamber adapted to store printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform; a channel that connects a sidewall of the first chamber to a sidewall of the second chamber within the housing such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure that is movable within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform for receiving curing light for curing a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform to build the 3D object on the platform.

2. The container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber is adapted to restrict or prevent rotation of the platform.

3. The container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber is a non-cylindrical chamber.

4. The container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber includes a circular cross-section extending a first length along an axis of the second chamber and a non-circular cross-section extending a second length along the axis of the second chamber.

5. The container assembly according to claim 4, wherein the platform includes a cylindrical portion adapted to align with the circular cross-section extending the first length along the axis of the second chamber.

6. The container assembly according to claim 4, wherein the platform includes a seal adapted to airtight seal the circular cross-section extending the first length along the axis of the second chamber.

7. The container assembly according to claim 4, wherein the second chamber includes one or more structures along one or more sidewalls adapted to relieve negative pressure during movement of the platform.

8. The container assembly according to claim 7, wherein the one or more structures include negative pressure chambers or vent holes along the one or more sidewalls of the second chamber.

9. The container assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a handle portion coupled to the platform for removing the platform from the second chamber to facilitate removal of the 3D object built on the platform.

10. The container assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing is adapted to receive heat from a heat source external to the container assembly.

11. A system for printing three-dimensional objects, comprising: a controller; a container assembly adapted to airtight store printing material, comprising: a housing that houses a first chamber adapted to store printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform; a channel that connects a sidewall of the first chamber to a sidewall of the second chamber within the housing such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and a structure that is movable within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between the surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform; a motor coupled to the controller and configured to move the structure; and A light emitting module, which communicates with the controller and is configured to emit curing light through the window to cure at least a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform, so as to build the 3D object on the platform.

12. The system according to claim 11, further comprising an arm coupled to the motor and adapted to press against the structure of the container assembly.

13. The system according to claim 12, further comprising a housing for the controller, the motor and the light emitting module, and an outer surface of the housing includes a retaining frame adapted to receive the container assembly.

14. The system according to claim 13, further comprising a touch screen interface disposed on an exterior of the housing.

15. The system according to claim 13, further comprising a heating module adapted to heat the printing material inside the container assembly.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the heating module includes a transparent surface heater disposed above a portion of the retaining frame.

17. The system according to claim 15, wherein the heating module includes a layer formed of an indium tin oxide (ITO) coating.

18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the heating module includes an adapter removably coupled to the retaining frame, and the adapter has a heating element disposed on a wall of the adapter.

19. The system according to claim 15, wherein the heating module includes a heating element disposed above the arm.

20. A container assembly for printing a three-dimensional (3D) object, comprising: A disposable outer shell that houses a first chamber adapted to airtightly store printing material and a second chamber adapted to receive a platform, wherein the second chamber is adapted to restrict or prevent rotation of the platform; A channel that connects a sidewall of the first chamber to a sidewall of the second chamber within the disposable outer shell, such that the first chamber and the second chamber are in fluid communication; and A structure that is movable within the first chamber and is adapted to transfer a portion of the printing material from the first chamber to a printing area between a surface of a window in the second chamber and the platform for receiving curing light for curing a layer of the printing material onto the platform or onto a cured layer of the printing material on the platform, so as to build the 3D object on the platform.

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