Powder cleaning equipment for additive manufacturing, powder cleaning method and application

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and particularly provides powder cleaning equipment for additive manufacturing. The powder cleaning equipment comprises a turnover device and a powder cleaning assembly; the turnover device comprises a turnover table and a turnover driving part; the driving end of the overturning driving piece is connected with the overturning table; a powder cleaning station is arranged on the overturning table; the powder cleaning station is provided with a printing substrate jacking device; the powder cleaning assembly comprises a forming cylinder sealing cover and a fixing device used for fixing a forming cylinder between the forming cylinder sealing cover and the overturning table. A cavity for accommodating a product and a printing substrate is formed in the sealing cover of the forming cylinder; and the forming cylinder sealing cover is provided with a protective gas blowing port and a gas outlet. According to the powder cleaning equipment, powder is directly cleaned with a cylinder, the powder cleaning effect is better under the triple action of gravity, vibration and pneumatic, powder cleaning is conducted in the protective atmosphere, and the powder is conveyed to automatic powder circulating equipment in a unified mode after being separated by people and powder and recycled and can be reused after being screened. On the basis, the invention provides an efficient and convenient automatic additive manufacturing production line and an automatic additive manufacturing method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and particularly relates to a powder cleaning device, a powder cleaning method and an application for additive manufacturing. Background Art

[0002] Additive manufacturing technology, also known as 3D printing technology, is a new manufacturing technology based on the principle of layer manufacturing. It directly implements a digital model into a solid part by the method of layer-by-layer material accumulation. After the powder to be formed is laid layer by layer, it is then adhered, sintered or melted and solidified to form a shape, which has the characteristics of rapid prototyping, high material utilization rate, and the production of complex parts.

[0003] During the metal laser 3D printing process, powder is laid layer by layer, and a large amount of powder residue remains on the 3D printed parts after layer-by-layer powder laying. At present, the powder cleaning work in metal laser 3D printing is mainly carried out manually, with slow operation, low efficiency, high labor cost, and the flying powder will cause harm to the human body. For the residual powder inside the 3D printing, it is difficult to clean manually and is likely to damage the 3D printed parts. In addition, the powder cleaned manually is difficult to be reused, resulting in powder waste. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to overcome the problems in the prior art such as low powder cleaning efficiency and difficult secondary utilization of powder.

[0005] To this end, the present invention provides a powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing, including: a flipping device and a powder cleaning component; the flipping device includes a flipping table and a flipping driving member; the driving end of the flipping driving member is connected to the flipping table; a powder cleaning station is provided on the flipping table; a printing substrate lifting device is provided at the powder cleaning station; the powder cleaning component includes a forming cylinder sealing cover and a fixing device for fixing the forming cylinder between the forming cylinder sealing cover and the flipping table; a cavity for accommodating the product and the printing substrate is provided inside the forming cylinder sealing cover; a protective gas blowing port and an air outlet are provided on the forming cylinder sealing cover.

[0006] Specifically, a rotating blowing pipe that rotates around the product and the printing substrate is provided inside the above-mentioned cavity.

[0007] Specifically, a vibrator is installed on the above-mentioned flipping table.

[0008] Specifically, the above-mentioned fixing device includes a telescopic mechanism; the telescopic mechanism is fixed on the flipping table; the forming cylinder sealing cover is arranged above the flipping table; the telescopic end of the telescopic mechanism is connected to the forming cylinder sealing cover.

[0009] Specifically, the above-mentioned powder cleaning equipment further includes a powder collecting device; the powder collecting device includes a suction machine and a powder collecting tank; the suction machine is connected to the powder collecting tank and the air outlet of the forming cylinder seal cover through pipelines respectively.

[0010] Specifically, a cover taking station is provided on the above-mentioned flipping table; a cylinder head clamping mechanism is provided at the cover taking station; the cover taking station and the powder cleaning station are connected by a conveyor belt.

[0011] The present invention also provides a powder cleaning method for additive manufacturing, using the above-mentioned powder cleaning equipment for additive manufacturing, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0012] Send the forming cylinder after taking the cover to the powder cleaning station, the forming cylinder seal cover seals the forming cylinder, and fixes the forming cylinder between the forming cylinder seal cover and the flipping table;

[0013] Fill the forming cylinder seal cover with a protective gas, the flipping table flips to invert the forming cylinder, and pour out the powder in the cylinder body;

[0014] The printing substrate lifting device sends the product and the printing substrate into the cavity of the forming cylinder seal cover, and uses air flow to remove the powder on the product and the printing substrate.

[0015] The present invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including a central control system, a powder recycling system, a transfer device, multiple additive manufacturing systems, and the above-mentioned powder cleaning equipment; the powder recycling system is connected to the additive manufacturing systems and the powder cleaning equipment through powder pipelines respectively; the additive manufacturing systems and the powder cleaning equipment are connected through the transfer device; the powder recycling system, the transfer device, the powder cleaning equipment, and the additive manufacturing systems are respectively connected to the central control system in signal.

[0016] The present invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing method, using the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing production line, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0017] The powder recycling system transports powder to the additive manufacturing systems through powder pipelines;

[0018] The additive manufacturing systems perform product printing;

[0019] After printing is completed, the transfer device receives the forming cylinder carrying the product, and transports the empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing systems for the next round of printing;

[0020] The transfer device sends the forming cylinder carrying the product to the powder cleaning equipment for powder cleaning, and transports the recycled powder to the powder recycling system through a powder pipeline;

[0021] After powder cleaning is completed, the transfer device transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

[0022] Specifically, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing method further includes adjusting the operation route of the transfer equipment among the powder circulation system, the powder cleaning equipment, and the additive manufacturing system through the central control system.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0024] The powder cleaning equipment and method for additive manufacturing provided by the present invention can realize the automatic cleaning of the powder on the forming cylinder, the substrate and parts inside it. The whole process of powder cleaning is carried out in an inert gas atmosphere, separating people from powder, which is safer; it reduces the process of manually cleaning the powder step by step, and the equipment directly cleans the powder with the cylinder, which is more convenient; the automatic powder cleaning device has triple effects of gravity, vibration and pneumatic action, and the powder cleaning effect is better. The cleaned powder is concentrated in the recovery tank and uniformly transported to the powder automatic recycling equipment, and after screening, it is used as raw material again, which is more efficient.

[0025] The automated additive manufacturing production line provided by the present invention integrates all the process parts into automation. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder can be quickly replaced. While the workpiece is being cleaned of powder, a new forming cylinder is transported and docked with the printing equipment to carry out the next round of printing work, reducing labor and improving production efficiency.

[0026] The automated additive manufacturing method provided by the present invention can realize the internal circulation of metal powder, basically eliminate workshop dust, ensure the safety of personnel and workshop equipment; reduce the downtime of equipment maintenance, and improve the overall production efficiency of the machine; the automated operation greatly reduces the labor intensity of personnel and labor costs. Compared with the traditional technology production method, it will greatly improve the production efficiency of the equipment.

[0027] The following will further elaborate on the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Description of the Drawings

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the powder cleaning equipment for additive manufacturing provided by the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 is a partial schematic diagram of the powder cleaning equipment in the flipped state provided by the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic internal structure diagram of the forming cylinder sealing cover of the powder cleaning equipment provided by the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the operation of the automated additive manufacturing production line provided by the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 is a schematic internal structure diagram of the frame of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6It is a schematic diagram of the printing state of the forming cylinder of the forming cylinder replacement device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the forming cylinder transfer mechanism of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0035] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the picking and placing device and the forming cylinder lifting assembly structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0036] Figure 9 It is a side view of the printing table driving device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0037] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram of the forming cylinder structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0038] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram of the printing table structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0039] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram of the bottom plate structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0040] Figure 13 It is a schematic diagram of the printing substrate structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0041] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram of the sealing device structure of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0042] Figure 15 It is a schematic diagram of the usage state of the sealing device of the additive manufacturing system provided by the present invention.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals:

[0044] 1. Flour cleaning equipment; 101. Forming cylinder sealing cover; 102. Telescopic mechanism; 103. Oxygen content sensor; 104. Protective gas blowing port; 105. Air outlet; 106. Pressure sensor; 107. Cylinder head clamping mechanism; 108. Tipping bearing; 109. Tipping motor; 110. Tipping bracket; 111. Fixed base; 112. Conveyor belt; 113. Conveyor belt motor; 114. Tipping table; 115. Feeding machine; 116. Powder collecting tank; 117. Lifting motor; 118. Lifting shaft; 119. Vibrator; 120. Rotating motor; 121. Rotating blowpipe; 2. Forming cylinder body; 201. Upper side arm; 202. Lower side arm; 3. Cylinder head; 4. Bottom plate; 401. Limit projection; 402. Buckle; 403. Magnetic part; 5. Printing substrate; 501. Limit groove; 502. Card slot; 503. Adapter plate; 504. Robotic arm clamping groove; 6. Sealing ring; 7. Sealed chamber body; 701. Gate plate; 702. Gate guide rail; 703. Gas channel; 704. Inflatable sealing ring; 705. Forming cylinder positioning column; 8. Additive manufacturing system; 801. Operating table; 802. Frame; 9. Transfer equipment; 10. Pick-and-place device; 11. Lifting device; 12. Claw; 13. Forming cylinder transfer device; 14. Transfer track; 15. Forming cylinder support seat; 16. Forming cylinder limit block; 17. Second position sensor; 18. First clamping arm; 19. Second clamping arm; 20. Printing table drive device; 21. Printing chamber; 22. Powder circulation system; 23. Forming cylinder preparation system; 24. Annealing furnace. Detailed implementation manners

[0045] The technical solutions in the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. Although the representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments, but should be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0046] Refer to Figure 1, the present invention provides a powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing, comprising: a flipping device and a powder cleaning assembly; the flipping device includes a flipping table 114 and a flipping driving member, and the flipping table 114 is preferably a platform structure; the driving end of the flipping driving member is connected to the flipping table 114 to drive the flipping table 114 to flip around a horizontal axis, ensuring that the forming cylinder body 2 on the flipping table 114 is inverted; a powder cleaning station is provided on the flipping table 114; a printing substrate 5 lifting device is provided at the powder cleaning station; the powder cleaning assembly includes a forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and a fixing device for fixing the forming cylinder between the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and the flipping table 114; a cavity for accommodating the product and the printing substrate 5 is provided inside the forming cylinder sealing cover 101; a protective gas blowing port 104 and an air outlet 105 are provided on the forming cylinder sealing cover 101.

[0047] During use, after removing the cover of the forming cylinder to be powder cleaned, it is sent to the powder cleaning station, and the forming cylinder is sealed by the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and fixed between the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and the flipping table 114. The lifting shaft 118 of the printing substrate 5 lifting device is connected to the printing substrate 5 inside the forming cylinder. Preferably, a detachable locking mechanism is provided on the lifting shaft 118. When the lifting shaft 118 is connected to the printing substrate 5, the locking mechanism locks the printing substrate 5 and the lifting shaft 118. Argon or other protective gas is filled into the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 through the protective gas blowing port 104, and the gas is discharged from the air outlet 105. Optionally, a pressure sensor 106 and an oxygen content sensor 103 are provided on the forming cylinder sealing cover 101. The pressure sensor 106 monitors the air pressure inside the cylinder body, and the oxygen content sensor 103 monitors the oxygen content inside the cylinder body. When the oxygen content inside the cylinder body is reduced to below 3000 ppm, the flipping table 114 flips to invert the forming cylinder, and most of the powder is removed from the cylinder body by gravity. The printing substrate 5 lifting device pushes the product and the printing substrate 5 into the cavity of the forming cylinder sealing cover 101, and the powder on the product and the printing substrate 5 is removed by the air flow. When the powder cleaning process is completed, the flipping table 114 flips back to the initial angle again, the printing substrate 5 lifting device pulls the printing substrate 5 and the product back to the bottom of the cylinder body again, and the locking mechanism is disconnected. Subsequently, the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 leaves the forming cylinder, the cylinder cover 3 is placed back on the top of the forming cylinder again, and the forming cylinder continues to be conveyed to the waiting area, waiting for the next step of taking out the printing substrate 5 and the product.

[0048] Further, as Figure 3 shown, a rotating blowing pipe 121 that rotates around the product and the printing substrate 5 is provided inside the cavity. During the process of the printing substrate 5 lifting device driving the printing substrate 5 to descend into the cavity, the rotating blowing pipe 121 blows air around the printing substrate 5 and the product, and the stubborn powder is continuously cleaned by the protective air flow. The rotating blowing pipe 121 can be driven to rotate by a rotating motor 120.

[0049] To improve the flour cleaning effect, a vibrator 119 is installed on the turning table 114. While the printing substrate 5 lifting device drives the printing substrate 5 to descend into the cavity, the vibrator 119 vibrates the entire cylinder body with a high amplitude to vibrate and remove the powder adhering to the surfaces of the cylinder body, the substrate, and the product.

[0050] In a refined embodiment, referring to Figure 2 , the fixing device includes a telescopic mechanism 102; the telescopic mechanism 102 is fixed on the turning table 114; the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 is arranged above the turning table 114; the telescopic end of the telescopic mechanism 102 is connected to the forming cylinder sealing cover 101. By adjusting the relative position between the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and the turning table 114 through the telescopic mechanism 102, the sealing and fixing of the forming cylinder are realized.

[0051] To recycle the powder for reuse, the powder cleaning device 1 further includes a powder collecting device; the powder collecting device includes a suction machine 115 and a powder collecting tank 116; the suction machine 115 is connected to the powder collecting tank 116 and the air outlet 105 of the forming cylinder sealing cover through pipelines respectively. During the powder cleaning process, the excess powder is sucked by the suction machine 115 and sent to the powder collecting tank 116 for storage under the action of air flow.

[0052] Furthermore, a cover taking station is provided on the turning table 114; a cylinder cover clamping mechanism 107 is provided at the cover taking station; the cover taking station and the powder cleaning station are connected by a conveyor belt 112. The forming cylinder to be powder cleaned is first sent to the cover taking station. After the cylinder cover clamping mechanism 107 removes the cylinder cover 3, the conveyor belt 112 sends the forming cylinder body 2 to the powder cleaning station for the powder cleaning process. After the powder cleaning is completed, the conveyor belt 112 sends the forming cylinder body 2 back to the cover taking station to cover the cylinder cover 3.

[0053] Specifically, the printing substrate 5 lifting device includes a lifting shaft 118 and a lifting motor 117 connected to each other. The powder cleaning station is arranged on the front of the turning table 114, the lifting motor 117 is fixed on the back of the turning table 114, the powder cleaning station is provided with a through hole for the lifting shaft 118 to pass through, and the lifting shaft 118 passes through the through hole and is connected to the printing substrate 5.

[0054] In a refined embodiment, the turning driving member is a turning motor 109. The turning device further includes a turning support 110 and a fixed base 111. A turning bearing 108 is provided on the fixed base 111, the turning table 114 is rotatably installed on the fixed base 111 through the turning bearing 108, the turning motor 109 is installed on the turning support 110, and the driving end is connected to the turning table 114 to drive the turning table 114 to turn on the fixed base 111.

[0055] Referring to Figure 4, the present invention provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including a central control system, a powder circulation system 22, a transfer device 9, the above-mentioned powder cleaning device 1, and multiple additive manufacturing systems 8; the powder circulation system 22 is connected to the additive manufacturing system 8 and the powder cleaning device 1 respectively through powder pipelines; the additive manufacturing system 8 is connected to the powder cleaning device 1 through the transfer device 9; the powder circulation system 22, the transfer device 9, the powder cleaning device 1, and the additive manufacturing system 8 are respectively signal-connected to the central control system. The number of additive manufacturing systems 8 is designed according to the actual situation of the production line.

[0056] All automatic devices are connected to the central control system, and the central control system is responsible for signal monitoring, distribution of all devices, and signal transmission between interconnected devices. The central control system can select the MES system to intelligently coordinate the overall operation of the production line. The docking completion signal, the cylinder feeding completion signal, and the forming cylinder in-place signal of the transfer device 9 and the additive manufacturing system 8 are all first sent to the central control system, and then the next instruction is sent to each device for execution. Each device does not directly deliver signals and only performs safety anti-fooling.

[0057] The transfer device 9 is responsible for powder addition and the transfer of printed workpieces and forming cylinders. Generally, an AGV with a double station is selected, which can control the entry and exit of two forming cylinders simultaneously and independently. The AGV uses two-dimensional code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, with 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. For the specific route of the AGV and the docking positions with other devices, photoelectric sensors are installed to determine the position of the AGV, and the docking spacing is 10 mm. The central control system pre-plans multiple routes for the AGV. When two vehicles meet on the same track, the central control system divides the priorities into A and B according to the distances of each AGV from the destination. Vehicle B makes way, and vehicle A passes first. The AGV and each device that needs to be docked with the AGV can be selected to use a roller docking method. The roller docking height of each device is the same height. Photoelectric sensors are installed on both sides of the roller docking of the AGV and the device. The laser SLAM navigation can meet an accuracy of ±10 mm, and with the design of the docking bell mouth, the stable entry and exit of the forming cylinder can be realized.

[0058] Multiple additive manufacturing systems 8 are linked for part forming. After printing is completed, a completion signal is sent to the central control system, and the forming cylinder is automatically covered with a dust-proof cover and transported to the discharge port for waiting. The central control system schedules the transfer device 9 to carry an empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 8, receive the forming cylinder carrying the formed product, and send the empty forming cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 8 to start the next round of printing. The transfer device 9 transports the forming cylinder carrying the product received from the additive manufacturing system 8 to the automatic powder cleaning device 1 for powder cleaning, and after powder cleaning, it is transported to the subsequent processing device.

[0059] The powder circulation system 22 is responsible for the powder supply circulation of the additive manufacturing system 8 and the powder recovery of the powder cleaning equipment 1, and has the functions of recovery, powder screening, drying, and powder feeding, and can meet the powder supply requirements of the production line for 24 hours.

[0060] The powder cleaning equipment 1 is used to clean the residual powder during the 3D printing process and recover the powder and send it to the powder circulation system 22 for reuse.

[0061] Furthermore, the automated additive manufacturing production line further includes a forming cylinder preparation system 23 for disassembling and assembling the forming cylinder and the printing substrate 5; the forming cylinder preparation system 23, the additive manufacturing system 8, and the powder cleaning equipment 1 are connected through a transfer device 9. The transfer device 9 sends the forming cylinder after powder cleaning to the forming cylinder preparation machine to separate the printing substrate 5 (with materials) and install a new substrate. The forming cylinder with the new substrate installed is then received by the transfer device 9 and the forming cylinder is replaced after the next additive manufacturing system 8 completes printing.

[0062] Specifically, the automated additive manufacturing production line further includes an annealing furnace 24; the annealing furnace 24 is connected to the forming cylinder preparation system 23 through a transfer device 9. The printing substrate 5 with materials separated by the forming cylinder preparation system 23 is sent to the annealing furnace 24 for post-treatment.

[0063] To facilitate the long-term cyclic operation of the production line, the automated additive manufacturing production line further includes a raw material supply system; the raw material supply system is connected to the powder circulation system 22 through a transfer device 9. When the powder circulation system 22 needs to add powder raw materials, the transfer device 9 adds them from the raw material supply system to the powder circulation system 22.

[0064] In one implementation, refer to Figure 5-6, the additive manufacturing system 8 provided by the present invention includes a forming cylinder replacement device and a printing device; the forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism for transferring the forming cylinder between the transfer station and the printing station; the transfer station is provided with a picking and placing device 10 for picking and placing the cylinder head 3 of the forming cylinder in the transfer station; the printing station is arranged below the printing device; the inlet of the forming cylinder is detachably connected to the material outlet of the printing device. During use, an empty forming cylinder is transported to the transfer station, the cylinder head 3 of the forming cylinder is removed by the picking and placing device 10, and the transfer mechanism transports the uncovered forming cylinder body 2 to the printing station, where the forming cylinder body 2 is tightly docked with the material outlet of the printing device. After processes such as airtightness detection and gas washing, the printing work begins. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder body 2 is disconnected from the material outlet of the printing device, and the transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder body 2 with the product to the transfer station. The picking and placing device 10 covers the cylinder head 3 on the forming cylinder body 2 again to seal the cylinder body and prevent powder spillage during transportation. The sealed forming cylinder is sent out of the forming cylinder replacement device for subsequent powder cleaning process, and then the empty forming cylinder is sent into the transfer station, and the above process is repeated for a new round of printing.

[0065] Specifically, referring to Figure 7 , the forming cylinder transfer mechanism includes a transfer track 14 and a forming cylinder support seat 15; the forming cylinder support seat 15 is slidably installed on the transfer track 14, and both the transfer station and the printing station are located within the travel of the forming cylinder support seat 15. The forming cylinder is carried by the forming cylinder support seat 15 and is transferred from the transfer station to the printing station or the forming cylinder with the product in the printing station is transported back to the transfer station by moving on the transfer track 14. Further, the forming cylinder support seat 15 is provided with a forming cylinder limit block 16 to prevent the forming cylinder from shifting during transportation and affecting printing.

[0066] In one implementation, the forming cylinder support seat 15 can be first run to the transfer station, then the empty forming cylinder is directly sent onto the forming cylinder support seat 15, and then subsequent operations such as removing the cover and printing are carried out.

[0067] In another implementation, in order to avoid the empty forming cylinder entering the transfer station first and interfering with the movement of the forming cylinder support seat 15, the transfer station is also provided with a forming cylinder lifting assembly. During use, the empty forming cylinder is transported to the transfer station, the cylinder head 3 of the forming cylinder is removed by the picking and placing device 10, and the forming cylinder lifting assembly lifts the forming cylinder body 2 to a position higher than the forming cylinder support seat 15. The forming cylinder support seat 15 moves to the transfer station, and the forming cylinder lifting assembly lowers the forming cylinder body 2 onto the forming cylinder support seat 15, and the forming cylinder support seat 15 transports the forming cylinder body 2 to the printing station. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder support seat 15 directly transports the forming cylinder back to the transfer station. The forming cylinder lifting assembly lifts the forming cylinder body 2 and withdraws the forming cylinder support seat 15.

[0068] Specifically, the forming cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 11 and a clamping jaw 12; the clamping jaw 12 is installed at the lifting end of the lifting device 11. The lifting device 11 drives the clamping jaw 12 to clamp the forming cylinder in the transfer station downward, so as to realize the lifting of the forming cylinder body 2.

[0069] Optionally, the picking and placing device 10 and the forming cylinder lifting assembly are integrally designed. As Figure 8 shown, the picking and placing device 10 is preferably an electromagnetic suction and placing device 10, which is arranged in the middle of the clamping jaw 12. During use, the clamping jaw 12 opens, and the electromagnetic suction and placing device 10 and the clamping jaw 12 move downward together. The electromagnetic suction and placing device 10 adsorbs the cylinder head 3, the clamping jaw 12 contracts and clamps the forming cylinder body 2, and the lifting device 11 starts to lift the entire forming cylinder upward to a certain height. After the forming cylinder support seat 15 moves to the lower part of the forming cylinder, the forming cylinder is lowered onto the forming cylinder support seat 15, the clamping of the forming cylinder is released, the adsorption of the electromagnetic suction and placing device 10 on the cylinder head 3 is maintained, the clamping jaw 12, the electromagnetic suction and placing device 10, and the cylinder head 3 are lifted again, and the forming cylinder is opened. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder support seat 15 sends the forming cylinder body 2 back to the transfer station, the clamping jaw 12 lifts the forming cylinder again, the forming cylinder support seat 15 withdraws, the electromagnetic suction and placing device 10 releases the magnetic adsorption, and the cylinder head 3 is covered again.

[0070] The transfer device 9 is docked with the transfer station of the additive manufacturing system 8 to convey the forming cylinder to the transfer station and / or receive the forming cylinder with the formed product output from the transfer station. In a refined embodiment, a forming cylinder conveying device 13 docked with the transfer device 9 is provided in the transfer station. The forming cylinder conveying device 13 receives the empty forming cylinder to the designated position in the transfer station, or sends the forming cylinder after printing completion to the transfer device 9. The forming cylinder conveying device 13 can be selected as a roller line, a conveyor belt or other feasible structures according to needs.

[0071] Preferably, the transfer device 9 is an AGV, and the forming cylinder conveying device 13 is a roller line. At least two workstations are arranged on the AGV, one for receiving the forming cylinder after printing completion and one for placing the empty forming cylinder. During operation, the AGV sends the empty forming cylinder into the roller line, and the roller line transports the forming cylinder to the designated position in the transfer station. Or the roller line transports the forming cylinder after printing completion to the AGV, and the AGV sends the forming cylinder after printing completion into the subsequent powder cleaning device 1. The docking height between the AGV and the roller line is a unified height. Photoelectric sensors are preferably installed on the docking side of the AGV and the roller line. The laser SLAM navigation can meet the accuracy of ±10 mm, and the stable entry and exit of the forming cylinder can be realized with the cooperation of the docking bell mouth design. After docking, the servo shaft of the device pushes out the forming cylinder, the AGV synchronously receives the forming cylinder after printing completion, and then sends the empty cylinder into the device, and the device starts the next round of printing.

[0072] In an optimized implementation manner, a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder is provided at the transfer station. After the forming cylinder is transported in place, the first position sensor emits a signal, and devices such as the picking and placing device 10 and the forming cylinder lifting assembly perform corresponding operations.

[0073] When a forming cylinder transfer device 13 is provided at the transfer station, the first position sensor is arranged on the forming cylinder transfer device 13 to monitor the position of the forming cylinder in real time, ensuring that the forming cylinder is transported in place without affecting the operation of the picking and placing device 10, the forming cylinder lifting assembly, and the forming cylinder transfer mechanism.

[0074] Furthermore, a fixing device for fixing the forming cylinder at the printing station is provided. After the forming cylinder body 2 in the printing station is closely docked with the printing equipment, the fixing device fixes the forming cylinder body 2. After printing is completed, the forming cylinder body 2 is disengaged from the printing chamber 21, the fixing device releases the forming cylinder body 2, and the forming cylinder transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder body 2 with the product to the transfer station.

[0075] In order to ensure that the forming cylinder is docked with the printing equipment in place, a second position sensor 17 for sensing the position of the forming cylinder is provided on the transfer mechanism. According to the information fed back by the second position sensor 17, the position of the forming cylinder is adjusted or devices such as the fixing device are started to perform corresponding operations.

[0076] In a refined implementation manner, the fixing device includes a driving component, and a first clamping arm 18 and a second clamping arm 19 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the printing station; the driving component drives the first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 to move relatively. The driving component can be a driving cylinder, and the installation sides of the first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 are selected according to the running direction of the forming cylinder transfer mechanism as long as they do not interfere with the forming cylinder transfer mechanism. After the forming cylinder transfer mechanism transports the forming cylinder to the printing station, the driving cylinder drives the first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 to move towards each other to clamp the forming cylinder.

[0077] In one implementation manner, referring to Figure 10-11 , the forming cylinder includes a forming cylinder body 2 and a bottom plate 4; the bottom plate 4 is slidably and sealingly connected to the inner wall of the forming cylinder body 2; the inlet of the forming cylinder body 2 is detachably connected to the material outlet of the printing equipment. A printing substrate 5 is detachably installed on the bottom plate 4 to form a printing table. After the forming cylinder body 2 is docked with the printing equipment in place, powder spreading and printing are performed on the printing substrate 5. After the completed printing forming cylinder is transported to the powder cleaning equipment 1, the bottom plate 4 drives the product to rise in the forming cylinder body 2 until it leaves the forming cylinder body 2. During the rising process, most of the powder will flow out of the cylinder body under gravity. The robotic arm grabs the printing substrate 5, releases the connection between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4, and starts 360-degree powder cleaning. The bottom plate 4 is combined with a new printing substrate 5 and put into the next round of printing.

[0078] In order to facilitate the movement of the bottom plate 4 and the printing substrate 5 to the printing height during the printing process, as Figure 9 shown, a printing table driving device 20 for driving the bottom plate 4 to slide in the forming cylinder body 2 is provided below the printing station, preferably a Z-axis lifting cylinder. When the forming cylinder is transported to the printing station and docked and fixed with the printing chamber 21, the lifting end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder extends out and contacts the bottom of the bottom plate 4, pushing the bottom plate 4 to move in the forming cylinder body 2.

[0079] Optionally, openings are provided at both the top and bottom of the forming cylinder body 2, that is, a through cavity is formed inside. The printing table is installed in the cavity and is slidably and sealedly connected to the cavity wall. In the working state, the driving end of the printing table driving device 20 passes through the bottom opening of the forming cylinder body 2 and extends into the forming cylinder body 2, contacts the bottom of the bottom plate 4, and pushes the bottom plate 4 to slide up and down in the forming cylinder body 2.

[0080] Specifically, a limiting protrusion 401 is provided on the bottom plate 4; a limiting groove 501 matching the limiting protrusion 401 is provided on the printing substrate 5; the printing substrate 5 is detachably installed on the top of the bottom plate 4 through the limiting protrusion 401 and the limiting groove 501. The limiting protrusion 401 and the limiting groove 501 adopt a mortise and tenon structure. As Figure 12-13 shown, the limiting protrusion 401 is preferably a T-shaped rib, and the limiting groove 501 is preferably a T-shaped groove matching the T-shaped rib. During use, the T-shaped rib is inserted into the T-shaped groove from the side to realize the connection between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4. After printing, the bottom plate 4 drives the printing substrate 5 to rise and leave the forming cylinder body 2, and the robotic arm grabs the printing substrate 5 and pulls it out from the side to release the connection between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4. The number, length, and arrangement position of the T-shaped rib and the T-shaped groove are designed according to the actual sizes of the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4 to ensure the connection stability of the casing.

[0081] In order to improve the connection stability between the bottom plate 4 and the printing substrate 5, a buckle 402 is provided on the bottom plate 4; a card slot 502 matching the buckle 402 is provided on the printing substrate 5; the buckle 402 and the card slot 502 are detachably connected. The number and installation position of the buckle 402 and the card slot 502 are designed according to the actual sizes of the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4.

[0082] Furthermore, a magnetic component 403 is provided on the bottom plate 4; a transfer plate 503 is provided at the bottom of the printing substrate 5; and the magnetic component 403 is magnetically connected to the transfer plate 503. The bottom plate 4 can firmly fix the transfer plate 503 through the magnetic component 403. When it is necessary to remove the transfer plate 503, only the magnetic force needs to be released, and the transfer plate 503 together with the printing substrate 5 can be easily removed, which is convenient and fast, and promotes the automation to be more intelligent. Preferably, an electromagnetic suction component 403 is provided on the top of the bottom plate 4, equipped with a controllable magnetic attraction function. The transfer plate 503 is a carbon steel transfer plate 503 or a magnetic transfer plate 503 made of other materials that meet the magnetic attraction requirements. The transfer plate 503 is generally fixed at the middle position of the bottom of the printing substrate 5, which is conducive to the adsorption of the magnetic component 403 on the bottom plate 4, so that the printing substrates 5 made of various materials can be magnetically fixed to the bottom plate 4 through the transfer plate 503.

[0083] In the above embodiment, the detachable connection method between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4 enables the back surface of the printing substrate 5 to be connected to the bottom plate 4, and there are no screw holes on the front printing surface, which is conducive to disassembly and improves the utilization rate of the printing surface. The printing table can adopt a combination of various detachable connection methods. By equipping with a controllable magnetic attraction function and a controllable mortise and tenon structure, magnetic attraction and mechanical double fixation are realized, ensuring the stable combination of the printing Z-axis and the cylinder bottom plate 4, accurately fixing the substrate and the bottom plate 4, and facilitating the automatic disassembly of the two. The above detachable connection mechanism can be quickly loaded and unloaded through automation.

[0084] In a refined embodiment, a robotic arm clamping groove 504 is provided on the side arm of the printing substrate 5. When a transfer plate 503 is provided at the bottom of the printing substrate 5, the robotic arm clamping groove 504 can be opened on the side arm of the transfer plate 503. After printing is completed, the robotic arm grabs the printing substrate 5 through the robotic arm clamping groove 504 on the side, and then releases the connection between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4 to start 360-degree powder cleaning. The groove facilitates the transfer and mechanical clamping of the substrate.

[0085] In order to prevent the temperature of the bottom of the model from decreasing during printing, and the situation that the part of the model in contact with the printing platform warps or even the whole model falls off, a heater for heating the printing substrate 5 is provided on the bottom plate 4 to continuously heat the model.

[0086] Furthermore, a connecting piece for docking with the control device of the additive manufacturing system 8 is provided at the bottom of the bottom plate 4. After the forming cylinder and the printing device of the additive manufacturing system 8 are installed in place, they are accurately and quickly docked with the control device through the connecting piece. Using the control device, the level of the printing substrate 5 is automatically adjusted by distance measurement to ensure that the level is within ±0.05 mm. When a magnetic component 403, a heater or other functional structures are provided on the substrate, the docking control device starts to control the overall substrate heating, magnetic attraction and height position to cooperate with the device printing.

[0087] In an optimized implementation, a cylinder head positioning groove is provided at the top of the forming cylinder body 2, which facilitates placing the cylinder head 3 after printing, limits and seals the cylinder body, and prevents powder spillage during transportation.

[0088] Furthermore, a printing device positioning hole is also provided at the top of the forming cylinder body 2. The forming cylinder is docked with the printing device through the positioning hole to ensure that the forming cylinder is in place.

[0089] To facilitate the transportation of the forming cylinder, side arms for clamping and carrying are provided outside the forming cylinder body 2. Optionally, upper side arms 201 and lower side arms 202 are respectively provided at the upper and lower ends of the outer side wall of the forming cylinder body 2. The upper side arms 201 facilitate external carrying and clamping operations, and the lower side arms 202 are used for positioning before the forming cylinder body 2 is docked with the equipment.

[0090] Furthermore, the printing table is adapted to the inner cavity of the forming cylinder body 2, and a sealing ring 6 is sleeved on the circumferential surface of the printing table in contact with the inner wall of the forming cylinder body 2. Preferably, the sealing ring 6 is sleeved on the circumferential surface of the bottom plate 4 in contact with the inner wall of the forming cylinder body 2. On the one hand, the sealing ring 6 seals the entire cylinder body, and on the other hand, it ensures that the powder does not overflow downward.

[0091] In one implementation, the printing device includes a laser printing component and a printing chamber 21; the laser printing component is used for laser printing in the printing chamber 21; the material outlet of the printing chamber 21 is detachably connected to the inlet of the forming cylinder. Printing is performed on the printing table of the forming cylinder by the laser printing component. The laser printing component can select an optical system that adapts to the mass production requirements of the industry as needed. The printing chamber 21 is the position for laser scanning and printing forming. Metal powder is spread on the printing platform in the forming cylinder by a powder cylinder and a powder spreading mechanism. After spreading, printing is performed. After printing is completed, the printing table descends one layer, and powder is spread again. The above process is repeated until printing is completed. A certain amount of powder can be stored in the powder spreading mechanism, and powder is added back to the powder adding position every two layers of powder spreading. A high-definition camera can be configured above the printing chamber 21 to monitor printing and powder spreading in real time. When printing or powder spreading is abnormal, a prompt and re-powder spreading are given.

[0092] Furthermore, a pressure sensor is provided on the printing chamber 21. The central control system adjusts the supply amount of the protective gas in real time according to the pressure situation feedback by the pressure sensor to meet the gas requirements during the printing process and the replacement process of the forming cylinder.

[0093] To save the protective gas and shorten the gas washing time, refer to Figure 14-15, the additive manufacturing system 8 further includes a sealing device; the sealing device includes a sealed chamber body 7; one side of the sealed chamber body 7 is connected to the material outlet of the printing chamber 21, and the other side is detachably connected to the inlet of the forming cylinder; a gas passage 703 communicating the printing chamber 21 and the forming cylinder is provided in the sealed chamber body 7; a gate assembly for opening or blocking the gas passage 703 is provided in the gas passage 703. During use, first install the sealed chamber body 7 at the material outlet of the printing chamber 21, and then connect the forming cylinder body 2 to the sealed chamber body 7. Open the gate assembly to open the gas passage 703, so that the printing chamber 21 and the forming cylinder body 2 are communicated through the gas passage 703 of the sealed chamber body 7. The device starts the gas washing operation to reduce the oxygen content. When the oxygen content reaches the standard, the device starts to work. When the work is completed and the forming cylinder needs to be replaced, close the gate assembly to block the gas passage 703 and disconnect the sealed chamber body 7 from the forming cylinder. Due to the blocking effect of the gate assembly, the printing chamber 21 remains in a sealed state, isolating the air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. When used for the next work, it can be exempted from gas washing or only a small amount of gas washing is required to ensure the internal oxygen content, achieving the saving of a large amount of gas washing waiting time and the gas consumption cost brought by long-term gas washing, and greatly improving the overall production efficiency of the device.

[0094] Specifically, the gate assembly includes a gate guide rail 702 and a gate plate 701; the gate guide rail 702 is installed on the inner wall of the gas passage 703; a gate plate 701 access opening communicating with the gas passage 703 is provided on the side wall of the sealed chamber body 7; the gate plate 701 passes through the gate plate 701 access opening and is slidably connected to the gate guide rail 702. The gate plate 701 passes through the gate plate 701 access opening and inserts into the sealed chamber body 7. By slidingly cooperating with the gate guide rail 702, the gas passage 703 is opened or blocked, thereby realizing the communication or sealing of the printing chamber 21 and the forming cylinder during use. In order to prevent the gate plate 701 from falling into the gas passage 703, a limit block can be provided at one end of the gate plate 701. The limit block is larger than the gate plate 701 access opening. When the gate plate 701 passes through the gate plate 701 access opening and inserts into the sealed chamber body 7, the limit block is located outside the sealed chamber body 7 to prevent the entire gate plate 701 from inserting into the sealed chamber body 7.

[0095] The length and installation position of the guide rail and the number and size of the gate plates 701 are designed according to the actual size of the gas passage 703 to ensure the airtightness effect in the closed state of the gate.

[0096] Optionally, the sealed chamber body 7 is of a cuboid structure, with a gas passage 703 having a rectangular cross-section opened along the height direction. The upper and lower end faces of the sealed chamber body 7 are respectively a printing chamber connection surface and a forming cylinder connection surface. The guide rail of the shutter 701 is installed on the inner wall of the gas passage 703 and is parallel to the upper and lower end faces. The inlet and outlet of the shutter 701 are opened on the side surface of the sealed chamber body 7 and communicate with the gas passage 703. The specific opening position of the inlet and outlet of the shutter 701 is designed according to the shutter guide rail 702 to ensure that the shutter 701 is accurately inserted into the shutter 701 guide rail after passing through the inlet and outlet of the shutter 701.

[0097] To improve the sealing effect, two sets of shutter assemblies can be provided, and the two inlets and outlets of the shutters 701 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the sealed chamber body 7, and the two shutters 701 are arranged in parallel. Multiple sets of shutter assemblies can also be designed according to needs.

[0098] Furthermore, the shutter assembly further includes a driving member for driving the shutter 701 to slide along the shutter guide rail 702. The driving member can be selected from a cylinder or other feasible devices to realize the automatic opening or closing of the shutter 701.

[0099] To improve the connection tightness between the sealing device and the forming cylinder, an inflatable sealing ring 704 is provided on the sealed chamber body 7; the inflatable sealing ring 704 is arranged around the port of the gas passage 703 on the side where the sealed chamber body 7 is connected to the forming cylinder. Before the forming cylinder is connected, the inflatable sealing ring 704 is in an uninflated state, leaving a gap for the forming cylinder to be docked with the sealing device. When the forming cylinder body is in place, the inflatable sealing ring 704 is inflated to make it expand and be in close contact with the top surface of the forming cylinder. The inflatable sealing ring 704 can be selected from an inflatable hose with a strong contraction and expansion mechanism.

[0100] In an optimized implementation manner, a groove matching the inflatable sealing ring 704 is provided at the docking position between the top surface of the forming cylinder body 2 and the inflatable sealing ring 704. After the inflatable sealing ring 704 expands, it fits into the groove, thereby achieving a good sealing effect.

[0101] Furthermore, the sealing device further includes a gas source; the output end of the gas source is communicated with the air inlet of the inflatable sealing ring 704. The output end of the gas source is preferably provided with an electromagnetic valve to inflate and inhale the inflatable sealing strip through the gas source.

[0102] Optionally, a forming cylinder sensor is provided on the sealing device; the forming cylinder sensor is electrically connected to the gas source. When the forming cylinder sensor senses that the cylinder body is in place, the gas source inflates the inflatable sealing ring 704 to ensure the connection tightness.

[0103] To control the sealing effect, a pressure gauge is provided between the output end of the gas source and the air inlet of the inflatable sealing ring 704, and according to the result feedback by the pressure gauge, the maximum inflation amount of the inflatable sealing ring 704 is adjusted.

[0104] In a refined embodiment, a forming cylinder positioning post 705 is provided on one side of the sealed bin body 7 connected to the forming cylinder body 2. A matching positioning hole can be provided on the forming cylinder, and the precise docking of the sealing device and the forming cylinder is achieved through the positioning post and the positioning hole to ensure that the forming cylinder is in place.

[0105] Furthermore, on one side of the sealed bin body 7 connected to the printing device, a fixed connecting piece for connecting the printing chamber 21 is provided. The fixed connecting piece can be selected from bolts or other devices that can achieve the fixed connection of two structures. The sealed bin body 7 is fixedly installed at the material inlet and outlet of the printing device to be washed through the fixed connecting piece, generally arranged below the printing chamber 21. During daily use, there is no need to disconnect the connection between the sealed bin body 7 and the printing chamber 21.

[0106] In a refined embodiment, the additive manufacturing system 8 further includes a frame 802; an operating platform 801 is provided inside the frame 802, the forming cylinder replacement device is installed on the operating platform 801, and the printing device is installed inside the frame 802. The frame 802 is preferably a sealed structure, and the transfer station is arranged at the inlet and outlet ends of the frame 802 to facilitate the feeding or output of the forming cylinder. To facilitate the movement of the additive manufacturing system 8, rollers are provided at the bottom of the frame 802.

[0107] Furthermore, a dust removal device and a soot collection bucket are also provided inside the frame 802 to collect the soot generated inside the additive manufacturing system 8, and a flame retardant material is regularly sprayed into the soot collection bucket to reduce the risk of fire and explosion.

[0108] The present invention also provides an automated additive manufacturing method, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0109] Set the model parameters and upload them to the central control system for production scheduling and arrange for the corresponding additive manufacturing system 8 to produce. The central control system sends signals to the transfer device 9 and the powder circulation system 22. The transfer device 9 transports an empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 8, and the powder circulation system 22 transports powder to the additive manufacturing system 8 through a powder pipeline.

[0110] The additive manufacturing system 8 prints a product on the printing substrate 5 inside the forming cylinder, and sends a signal to the central control system after printing is completed.

[0111] The transfer device 9 carries an empty forming cylinder to the docking location of the additive manufacturing system 8, receives the forming cylinder carrying the product, and transports the empty forming cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 8 for the next round of printing.

[0112] The transfer device 9 transports the forming cylinder carrying the product to the powder cleaning device 1. The powder cleaning device 1 performs powder cleaning and transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system 22 through a powder pipeline.

[0113] After powder cleaning is completed, the transfer device 9 transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

[0114] Furthermore, the above-mentioned automated additive manufacturing method further includes adjusting the operation route of the transfer device 9 among the powder circulation system 22, the powder cleaning device 1, multiple additive manufacturing systems 8, and the subsequent processing system through the central control system.

[0115] Specifically, the above-mentioned subsequent processing process includes: the transfer device 9 transports the forming cylinder to the forming cylinder preparation system 23, separates the printing substrate 5 carrying the product from the forming cylinder, and installs a new printing substrate 5 in the forming cylinder; the separated printing substrate 5 is sent to the subsequent processing process, and the forming cylinder is transported by the transfer device 9 to the additive manufacturing system 8 to wait for the next round of printing.

[0116] Since the printing time of the additive manufacturing system 8 is relatively long, while the production rhythms of the powder cleaning device 1 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 are fast, the powder cleaning device 1 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 will mostly wait for the additive manufacturing system 8 to print. When the forming cylinder preparation system 23 finishes processing the forming cylinder, the transfer device 9 can directly transport the empty forming cylinder to the waiting position in the production area of the additive manufacturing system 8 to save time. After the additive manufacturing system 8 sends a completion signal to the central control system, the additive manufacturing system 8 will transfer the forming cylinder carrying the product to the docking port. At the same time, the transfer device 9 carrying the empty forming cylinder at the waiting position in the production area will also receive the information and go to the docking port of the additive manufacturing system 8. The additive manufacturing system 8 starts to dock with the transfer device 9. After the forming cylinder carrying the product is received, the transfer device 9 starts to send the empty forming cylinder into the additive manufacturing system 8, and the additive manufacturing system 8 automatically runs to start the next printing work.

[0117] Furthermore, when the system detects that powder raw materials need to be added, the central control system sends a signal to the transfer device 9, and the transfer device 9 takes the raw material barrel filled with powder from the powder raw material rack and adds it to the powder circulation system 22. An raw material adding device is designed in the powder circulation system 22. After the raw material barrel is placed in place, the door is closed tightly and argon gas is filled for protection. The clamping arm opens the lid to start feeding. After feeding, the raw material barrel is transported away by the AGV, and so on in a cycle.

[0118] In a refined embodiment, the additive manufacturing system 8 performs gas washing before printing, or after printing is completed, during the process of replacing the forming cylinder, when the forming cylinder is separated from the printing chamber 21, the protective gas leaks, resulting in insufficient protective gas during the next round of gas washing or printing. The central control system adjusts the gas supply amount in real time through the air pressure in the printing chamber 21.

[0119] The above method does not limit the sequence of each step, which is planned by the central control system according to the actual situation.

[0120] Next, the effects of the powder cleaning device, powder cleaning method and application for additive manufacturing of the present invention are studied through specific embodiments.

[0121] Example 1:

[0122] This embodiment provides a powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing, which includes a flipping device, a powder cleaning component, and a powder collecting device.

[0123] The flipping device includes a flipping table 114, a flipping driving member, a flipping bracket 110, and a fixed base 111. A flipping bearing 108 is provided on the fixed base 111, and the flipping table 114 is rotatably installed on the fixed base 111 through the flipping bearing 108; the flipping driving member is a flipping motor 109, which is installed on the flipping bracket 110, and its driving end is connected to the flipping table 114 to drive the flipping table 114 to flip on the fixed base 111.

[0124] The flipping table 114 is of a platform structure, and its front side is provided with a cover taking station and a powder cleaning station. A cylinder head clamping mechanism 107 is provided at the cover taking station, and the cover taking station is connected to the powder cleaning station through a conveyor belt 112. The conveyor belt 112 is driven by a conveyor belt motor 113; a vibrator 119 is installed on the flipping table 114.

[0125] The powder cleaning station is provided with a lifting device for the printing substrate 5; the lifting device for the printing substrate 5 includes a lifting shaft 118 and a lifting motor 117 connected to each other. The lifting motor 117 is fixed on the reverse side of the flipping table 114. The powder cleaning station is provided with a through hole for the lifting shaft 118 to pass through. The lifting shaft 118 passes through the through hole and is connected to the printing substrate 5; a detachable locking mechanism is provided at the connection end of the lifting shaft 118 and the printing substrate 5.

[0126] The powder cleaning component includes a forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and a fixing device; the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 is arranged above the powder cleaning station of the flipping table 114; the fixing device includes a telescopic mechanism 102, and the telescopic mechanism 102 is fixed on the front side of the flipping table 114, and its telescopic end is connected to the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 to drive the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 to move up and down relative to the flipping table 114.

[0127] A cavity for accommodating the product and the printing substrate 5 is provided inside the forming cylinder sealing cover 101; a rotating air blowing pipe 121 that rotates around the product and the printing substrate 5 is provided inside the cavity. The rotating air blowing pipe 121 is driven to rotate by a rotating motor 120; a protective gas blowing port 104, an air outlet 105, a pressure sensor 106, and an oxygen content sensor 103 are provided on the forming cylinder sealing cover 101.

[0128] The powder collecting device includes a suction machine 115 and a powder collecting tank 116; the suction machine 115 is connected to the inlet of the powder collecting tank 116 and the air outlet 105 of the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 through pipelines respectively.

[0129] Based on the above powder cleaning device 1, this embodiment also provides a powder cleaning method for additive manufacturing, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0130] The forming cylinder that has completed additive manufacturing is moved to the lid-taking station through the conveyor belt 112. The cylinder head clamping mechanism 107 clamps and raises the cylinder head 3 of the forming cylinder. Subsequently, the forming cylinder body 2 continues to be conveyed to the powder cleaning station. The telescopic mechanism 102 drives the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 to descend, seals the forming cylinder, and fixes the forming cylinder between the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 and the turning table 114. The printing substrate 5 in the forming cylinder is locked by the locking mechanism at the top of the lifting shaft 118. Subsequently, protective gas is filled from the protective gas blowing port 104, and gas is discharged from the air outlet 105. The pressure sensor 106 monitors the air pressure inside the cylinder, and the oxygen content sensor 103 monitors the oxygen content inside the cylinder. When the oxygen content inside the cylinder drops below 3000 ppm, the turning table 114 rotates around the turning bearing 108 to gradually invert the forming cylinder, and most of the powder is removed from the cylinder using gravity (the first heavy powder cleaning). Under the action of the air flow, the excess powder is sucked by the powder suction machine 115 and sent to the powder collection tank 116 for storage; under the action of the lifting motor 117, the printing substrate 5 and the product gradually move downward along with the lifting shaft 118. At the same time, the vibrator 119 performs high-amplitude vibration on the entire cylinder (the second heavy powder cleaning) to vibrate and remove the powder adhering to the surface of the cylinder, the substrate, and the product; during the descent of the printing substrate 5, the rotating blow pipe 121 rotates around the printing substrate 5 and the product under the action of the rotating motor 120 to blow air (the third heavy powder cleaning), and the protective air flow is used to continuously clean the stubborn powder, realizing high-quality and high-efficiency cleaning of the powder inside the cylinder. When the powder cleaning process is completed, the turning table 114 rotates back to the initial angle, the lifting shaft 118 pulls the printing substrate 5 and the product back into the forming cylinder body 2 again, and the locking mechanism is disengaged. Subsequently, the telescopic mechanism 102 drives the forming cylinder sealing cover 101 away from the forming cylinder. The forming cylinder is conveyed to the lid-taking station, the cylinder head 3 is placed back on the top of the forming cylinder, and the forming cylinder continues to be conveyed to the waiting area, waiting for the next step of taking out the printing substrate 5 and the product.

[0131] Example 2:

[0132] Referring to Figure 4 , this embodiment provides an automated additive manufacturing production line, including an MES system, a powder recycling system 22, a transfer device 9, a powder cleaning device 1, a forming cylinder preparation system 23, an argon station, a vacuum annealing furnace 24, and five additive manufacturing systems 8.

[0133] The powder cleaning device 1 adopts the powder cleaning device 1 provided in Example 1.

[0134] The powder recycling system 22 is designed with a raw material adding device and is equipped with 21 branch pipes. Twenty of these pipes are respectively connected to the powder dropping units of the five additive manufacturing systems 8, including 5 powder feeding pipes, 5 powder feeding gas recovery pipes, 5 powder returning pipes, and 5 powder returning gas recovery pipes. The remaining powder returning pipe is connected to the powder collection tank 116 of the powder cleaning device 1.

[0135] The forming cylinder preparation system 23 is provided with a printed substrate separation station and a new substrate installation station.

[0136] The argon gas station supplies argon gas to the additive manufacturing system 8, the powder circulation system 22, the automatic powder cleaning machine and the manual powder cleaning machine through pipelines.

[0137] The vacuum annealing furnace 24 is used to receive the printed product and remove the product stress.

[0138] The transfer device 9 includes multiple AGVs using two-dimensional code navigation and laser SLAM navigation, with 360-degree laser obstacle avoidance. Two transport stations are set on the AGV, one for receiving the completed forming cylinder (the first station), and one for placing the empty forming cylinder (the second station). The AGV routes are planned in advance by the central control system.

[0139] The additive manufacturing system 8 includes a forming cylinder, a frame 802, and an operating table 801, a forming cylinder replacement device, a sealing device, and a printing device installed inside the frame 802.

[0140] The printing device includes a laser printing component and a printing chamber 21, and a pressure sensor is provided on the printing chamber 21.

[0141] The sealing device includes a sealing chamber body 7; one side of the sealing chamber body 7 is fixed to the material outlet of the printing chamber 21 by screws, and the other side is provided with a forming cylinder connection port; a gas channel 703 is provided between the forming cylinder connection port and the printing chamber 21, and a gate assembly is provided in the gas channel 703. The gate assembly includes a gate guide rail 702 and a gate plate 701. The gate guide rail 702 is installed on the inner wall of the gas channel 703. An entrance and exit for the gate plate 701 communicating with the gas channel 703 is provided on the side wall of the sealing chamber body 7. The gate plate 701 passes through the entrance and exit of the gate plate 701 and inserts into the sealing chamber body 7, and is slidably matched with the gate guide rail 702. An inflation sealing ring 704 is provided around the forming cylinder connection port on the side where the sealing chamber body 7 is connected to the forming cylinder; the air inlet of the inflation sealing ring 704 is connected to the output end of the air source; a forming cylinder sensor and a forming cylinder positioning post 705 are provided on the sealing device.

[0142] The forming cylinder includes a cylinder head 3, a forming cylinder body 2, and a printing table. The top and bottom of the forming cylinder body 2 are both provided with openings, and a through cavity for accommodating the printing table is formed inside; on the edge of the top opening of the forming cylinder body 2, there are a cylinder head 3 positioning groove, a sealing chamber body 7 positioning hole, and a groove matching the inflatable sealing ring 704; on the upper and lower ends of the outer side wall of the forming cylinder body 2, there are an upper side arm 201 and a lower side arm 202 respectively. The printing table includes a bottom plate 4 and a printing substrate 5 whose sizes are adapted to the inner cavity of the forming cylinder body 2. On the left and right sides of the top of the bottom plate 4, there is a buckle 402 each, and on the top surface, there are two T-shaped ridges parallel to the left and right sides, and the two T-shaped ridges are symmetrically arranged. Between the two T-shaped ridges, there are an electromagnetic absorber 403 and a heater, and at the four corners of the bottom of the bottom plate 4, there are four connectors symmetrically arranged for connecting the electromagnetic absorber 403 and the heater to an external control device. The circumferential surface of the bottom plate 4 in contact with the inner wall of the forming cylinder body 2 is provided with three sealing rings 6 with different material functions. The top surface of the printing substrate 5 is a printing surface without screw holes, the bottom surface is provided with two T-shaped grooves corresponding to the T-shaped ridges one by one, and the left and right sides are provided with slots 502 corresponding to the buckles 402 on the bottom plate 4 one by one. At the position corresponding to the electromagnetic absorber 403 on the bottom surface of the printing substrate 5, a carbon steel adapter plate 503 is embedded; on the side surface of the printing substrate 5, there is a robotic arm clamping groove 504.

[0143] The forming cylinder replacement device includes a transfer station, a picking and placing device 10, a printing station, and a transfer mechanism.

[0144] The transfer mechanism includes two transfer tracks 14 arranged in parallel on the tabletop of the operation table 801 and a forming cylinder support base 15 slidably connected to the two tracks; on the forming cylinder support base 15, there are a forming cylinder limit block 16 and a second position sensor 17 for sensing the position of the forming cylinder.

[0145] Above the transfer station, there are a forming cylinder lifting assembly and a picking and placing device 10. The transfer station is arranged at one end of the transfer track 14 and is located between the two transfer tracks 14. Inside the transfer station, there is a roller line, and on the roller line, there is a first position sensor for sensing the position of the forming cylinder. The forming cylinder lifting assembly includes a lifting device 11 and a gripper 12; the gripper 12 is installed at the lifting end of the lifting device 11, and the picking and placing device 10 is an electromagnetic picking and placing device 10, which is arranged in the middle of the gripper 12. Photoelectric sensors are installed on both the docking sides of the AGV and the roller line, and the docking height is the same height.

[0146] The printing station is arranged at the other end of the transfer track 14 and is located between the two transfer tracks 14. A printing chamber 21 is located above the printing station. Below the printing station, there is a Z-axis lifting cylinder. The printing station is provided with a fixing device, and the fixing device includes a first clamping arm 18 and a second clamping arm 19 symmetrically arranged outside the two transfer tracks 14; both the first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 are connected with driving cylinders and move relatively under the action of their respective driving cylinders.

[0147] The powder circulation system 22, the transfer equipment 9, the powder cleaning equipment 1, the molding cylinder preparation system 23, the argon gas station, and the additive manufacturing system 8 are respectively connected to the MES system signal.

[0148] Embodiment 3:

[0149] Based on the automated additive manufacturing production line provided in Example 2, this embodiment provides an automated additive manufacturing method, including the following steps.

[0150] The model parameters are set and uploaded to the MES system, which automatically schedules the production and arranges the corresponding additive manufacturing system 8 for production.

[0151] The MES system sends a signal to the AGV and the powder circulation system 22, and the powder circulation system 22 delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system 8 through the powder pipeline. The AGV delivers the empty molding cylinder to the transfer station roller line of the additive manufacturing system 8, and the roller line transports the molding cylinder to the designated position of the transfer station. The first position sensor sends a signal, the clamping jaw 12 opens, the electromagnetic suction and release device 10 and the clamping jaw 12 move downward together, the electromagnetic suction and release device 10 adsorbs the cylinder cover 3, the clamping jaw 12 shrinks and clamps into the upper side arm 201 of the outer side wall of the molding cylinder body 2, and the lifting device 11 starts to lift the entire molding cylinder upward to a certain height. The molding cylinder support seat 15 moves to the bottom of the molding cylinder, and the molding cylinder lifting assembly lowers the molding cylinder onto the molding cylinder support seat 15, and the molding cylinder limit block 16 limits the molding cylinder. Then the clamping jaw 12 releases the clamping of the molding cylinder, while keeping the electromagnetic suction and release device 10 adsorbing the cylinder cover 3, the clamping jaw 12, the electromagnetic suction and release device 10, and the cylinder cover 3 are lifted again to open the molding cylinder. The molding cylinder support seat 15 drives the molding cylinder after opening the cover to run to the printing station. After the second position sensor 17 sends a molding cylinder in place signal, the molding cylinder is closely docked with the printing chamber 21, and the driving cylinder drives the first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 to move relative to each other to clamp the molding cylinder. After the molding cylinder sensor of the sealed warehouse body 7 senses the molding cylinder, it docks with the top positioning hole of the molding cylinder body 2 through the molding cylinder positioning column 705, and starts the gas source to inject air into the inflatable sealing ring 704 to expand it, so that it is in close contact with the top surface of the molding cylinder to achieve sealing. Pull out the gate 701, open the gas channel 703, and connect the printing chamber 21 and the molding cylinder body 2 through the gas channel 703 of the sealed warehouse body 7. After the air tightness test, the lifting end of the Z-axis lifting cylinder drives the printing table to move to the printing height. The argon station supplies gas through a pipeline, and the equipment starts the gas washing work to reduce the oxygen content in the printing chamber 21 and the molding cylinder. When the oxygen content reaches the standard, the equipment starts to work, and the laser printing component performs laser melting printing in the printing chamber 21.

[0152] The connectors at the four corners of the bottom of the bottom plate 4 are docked with the control device, and the horizontal level of the printing substrate 5 is automatically adjusted by distance measurement to ensure a levelness within ±0.05 mm. The docked control device starts to control the electromagnetic suction part 403 and the heater, adsorb the carbon steel adapter plate 503, and heat the printing substrate 5. During the printing process, the Z-axis lifting cylinder adjusts the height of the printing table in real time.

[0153] After printing is completed, the additive manufacturing system 8 sends a signal to the central control system to close the shutter 701, block the gas passage 703, and release the connection between the sealed chamber 7 and the forming cylinder. Due to the blocking effect of the shutter 701, the printing chamber 21 remains airtight, isolating the air and ensuring the internal oxygen content. The first clamping arm 18 and the second clamping arm 19 move in the opposite direction to release the forming cylinder, and the forming cylinder support seat 15 transports the forming cylinder body 2 with the product to the transfer station. The gripper 12 lifts the forming cylinder, withdraws the forming cylinder support seat 15, the electromagnetic suction part 403 releases the magnetic attraction, the forming cylinder is covered with the cylinder head 3 again to seal the cylinder body, and it falls back onto the roller line and is sent to the loading and unloading port by the roller line. The photoelectric sensor ensures the accurate position of the cylinder body.

[0154] After receiving the signal, the AGV carries an empty cylinder to the additive manufacturing system 8 at the second station. First, it docks the empty first station with the roller line and receives the completed forming cylinder. After the first station finishes receiving, the AGV moves, and the second station docks with the roller line again to send the empty cylinder into the equipment to start the next round of printing.

[0155] The AGV sends the received forming cylinder to the powder cleaning station of the powder cleaning equipment 1 to start automatic powder cleaning, and transports the recovered powder to the powder recycling system 22 through the powder pipeline. After the powder cleaning is completed, the AGV transports the forming cylinder to the printing substrate separation station of the forming cylinder preparation system 23 to push out the printing substrate 5 from the forming cylinder body 2. Release the magnetic force of the electromagnetic suction part 403 and the connection between the buckle 402 and the card slot 502. The robotic arm grabs the robotic arm clamping groove 504 on the side of the printing substrate 5 and pulls out the printing substrate 5 from the side to release the connection between the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4. The separated printing substrate 5 is sent to the vacuum annealing furnace 24 to remove the product stress, and the substrate and the part are cut by wire cutting.

[0156] The forming cylinder installs a new printing substrate 5 at the new substrate installation station of the forming cylinder preparation system 23. The robotic arm inserts the T-shaped rib of the bottom plate 4 into the T-shaped groove of the printing substrate 5 from the side. After the two are fitted in place, the buckles 402 on the left and right sides are snapped into the corresponding card slots 502 to complete the assembly of the printing substrate 5 and the bottom plate 4 to form a printing table. The cylinder head 3 is installed on the top of the forming cylinder body 2 to complete the assembly of the forming cylinder, and it is transported by the AGV to the additive manufacturing system 8 to wait for the next round of printing.

[0157] The production rhythm of the additive manufacturing system 8 is approximately 5 hours, while the production rhythms of the powder cleaning equipment 1 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 are approximately 20 minutes. Most of the time, the powder cleaning equipment 1 and the forming cylinder preparation system 23 will be waiting for the additive manufacturing system 8 to print. When the forming cylinder preparation system 23 finishes processing the forming cylinder, the AGV can directly place the empty forming cylinder at the second station and transport it to the waiting position in the production area of the additive manufacturing system 8. After the additive manufacturing system 8 sends a completion signal to the central control system, the additive manufacturing system 8 will transfer the forming cylinder carrying the product to the roller line at the transfer station. At the same time, the AGV carrying the empty forming cylinder at the waiting position in the production area will also receive the information and go to the docking port of the additive manufacturing system 8. The roller line of the additive manufacturing system 8 starts to dock with the first station of the AGV. Photoelectric sensors are installed at the docking positions of both sides to determine the position of the AGV. The AGV laser navigation will also have a position. When the two positions are the same (±10 mm), the forming cylinder carrying the product is pushed out to the first station of the AGV. After the forming cylinder carrying the product is received, the second station of the AGV docks with the additive manufacturing system 8, and the empty forming cylinder is sent into the additive manufacturing system 8, and the additive manufacturing system 8 automatically runs to start the next printing operation.

[0158] During the operation of the production line, the central control system plans and adjusts the running routes of multiple AGVs among the powder circulation system 22, the powder cleaning equipment 1, and multiple additive manufacturing systems 8 according to the printing progress of the equipment, to avoid detours, backtracking, or route conflicts.

[0159] At the same time, the central control system adjusts the gas supply volume and gas supply timing of the argon gas station in real time through the air pressure change in the printing chamber 21 feedback by the pressure sensor to meet the demand for protective gas during the gas washing or printing process.

[0160] When the system detects that metal powder raw materials need to be added, the MES system sends a signal to the AGV. The AGV takes the raw material bucket filled with powder from the powder raw material rack in the raw material area and adds it to the raw material adding device of the powder circulation system 22. After the raw material bucket is placed in place, the door is closed tightly and argon gas is filled for protection. The clamping arm opens the lid to start feeding. After feeding, the raw material bucket is transported away by the AGV, and so on in a cycle.

[0161] The above examples are only illustrative of the present invention and do not constitute a limitation on the protection scope of the present invention. Any design identical or similar to the present invention falls within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing, characterized in that: include: A turning device and a powder cleaning component; the turning device includes a turning table and a turning drive; the driving end of the turning drive is connected to the turning table; a powder cleaning station is provided on the turning table; the powder cleaning station is provided with a printing substrate lifting device; the powder cleaning component includes a molding cylinder sealing cover and a fixing device for fixing the molding cylinder between the molding cylinder sealing cover and the turning table; a cavity for accommodating products and printing substrates is provided in the molding cylinder sealing cover; a protective gas blowing port and an air outlet are provided on the molding cylinder sealing cover.

2. The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: A rotating air blowing pipe which rotates around the product and the printing substrate is arranged in the cavity.

3. The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: A vibrator is installed on the turning table.

4. The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixing device comprises a telescopic mechanism; the telescopic mechanism is fixed on the turning table; the forming cylinder sealing cover is arranged above the turning table; and the telescopic end of the telescopic mechanism is connected to the forming cylinder sealing cover.

5. The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a powder collecting device; the powder collecting device includes a suction machine and a powder collecting tank; the suction machine is connected to the powder collecting tank and the air outlet of the sealing cover of the forming cylinder through pipelines.

6. The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The turning table is provided with a cover removing station; the cover removing station is provided with a cylinder cover clamping mechanism; the cover removing station is connected with the powder cleaning station through a conveyor belt.

7. A powder cleaning method for additive manufacturing, characterized in that: The powder cleaning device for additive manufacturing according to claim 1 specifically comprises the following steps: The molding cylinder with the cover removed is sent to the powder cleaning station, the molding cylinder sealing cover seals the molding cylinder, and the molding cylinder is fixed between the molding cylinder sealing cover and the turning table; Fill the sealing cover of the molding cylinder with protective gas, turn the turning table over to invert the molding cylinder, and pour out the powder in the cylinder; The printing substrate lifting device delivers the product and the printing substrate into the cavity of the sealing cover of the forming cylinder, and uses airflow to remove powder on the product and the printing substrate.

8. An automated additive manufacturing production line, characterized in that: It includes a central control system, a powder circulation system, a transfer device, multiple additive manufacturing systems and the powder cleaning device described in any one of claims 1 to 6; the powder circulation system is connected to the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning device through a powder pipeline respectively; the additive manufacturing system and the powder cleaning device are connected through the transfer device; the powder circulation system, the transfer device, the powder cleaning device, and the additive manufacturing system are respectively connected to the central control system signal.

9. An automated additive manufacturing method, characterized in that: The automated additive manufacturing production line according to claim 8 specifically comprises the following steps: The powder circulation system delivers powder to the additive manufacturing system through a powder pipeline; Additive manufacturing systems to print products; After printing is completed, the transfer device receives the build cylinder containing the product and transports the empty build cylinder to the additive manufacturing system for the next round of printing; The transfer equipment sends the forming cylinder containing the product to the powder cleaning equipment for powder cleaning, and transports the recovered powder to the powder circulation system through the powder pipeline; After the powder is cleaned, the transfer equipment transports the forming cylinder to the subsequent processing process.

10. The automated additive manufacturing method according to claim 9, wherein: It also includes adjusting the operating route of the transfer equipment between the powder circulation system, powder cleaning equipment and additive manufacturing system through a central control system.

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