A hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the field of additive manufacturing technology and discloses a hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device, which is intended to solve the problem of insufficient interlayer bonding strength in traditional FDM printing. The device includes: a hot roller mechanism, a hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism, a hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism, a nozzle, an FDM printer back plate, a nozzle movement mechanism, a substrate, a printing platform, a printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism and an aluminum profile frame. After the nozzle prints a deposition layer on the substrate, the printing platform moves down a preset distance through the printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism, and then the hot roller mechanism realizes rolling of adjacent deposition layers through the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism and the hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism. Under the appropriate high temperature and pressure of the hot roller, the layer lines are reduced, the density and mechanical properties of the printed part are improved, and the interlayer bonding strength is enhanced. The device has a simple structure, is economical and practical, and effectively improves the interlayer bonding strength of FDM printed parts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the field of additive manufacturing and relates to a hot roller assisted fused deposition molding device. Background Art

[0002] Additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) is widely described as a disruptive technology that can produce geometrically optimized components at a low cost and offer capabilities not possible with traditional manufacturing methods. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology has been widely adopted and promoted within the additive manufacturing field due to its low cost, ease of use, high precision, flexibility, and excellent machinability. FDM uses thermoplastic materials (such as wax, ABS, and nylon) as raw materials. The material is heated and melted in a nozzle, then extruded layer by layer. The nozzle moves along a predetermined trajectory to form the product. However, the mechanical properties of FDM-printed parts are significantly lower than those of injection-molded parts, primarily due to the weak interlayer adhesion caused by the layered manufacturing process. Despite improvements such as continuous fiber reinforcement, process optimization, and the development of new materials, interlayer bonding issues continue to hinder the further development of FDM technology. Therefore, new and effective methods are urgently needed to enhance interlayer bonding strength. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the problem of poor bonding strength between layers in the vertical processing direction of fused deposition modeling. In order to overcome this technical problem, a hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device is provided.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0005] A hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device, comprising a hot roller mechanism, a hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism, a hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism, a nozzle, an FDM printer back plate, a nozzle movement mechanism, a base plate, a printing platform, a printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism, and an aluminum profile frame;

[0006] The hot roller mechanism is connected to the Y-axis and Z-axis motion mechanisms of the hot roller on the aluminum profile frame via corresponding connectors. Driven by the nozzle motion mechanism, the nozzle moves along a preset path in the X and Y directions, extruding molten filament and depositing it onto the substrate or the previous deposition layer, forming a new deposition layer. After deposition is completed, the nozzle returns to its origin, and the print platform, driven by the Z-axis motion mechanism, moves downward along the Z axis to prepare for deposition of the next layer. After the deposition layer is formed, the hot roller mechanism, driven by the Z-axis motion mechanism, moves a corresponding distance in the Z direction to above the deposition layer, maintaining its Z-axis position. The Y-axis motion mechanism then drives the hot roller mechanism to move along the Y axis, applying roller pressure to the deposition layer. During the rolling process, the preset high temperature of the hot roller heats the surface material of the deposition layer, and the pressure of the hot roller further bonds the pressed deposition layer to the previous one. Under the appropriate high temperature and pressure of the hot roller, the pressed deposition layer achieves a secondary fusion with the previous deposition layer, thereby enhancing interlayer bonding strength.

[0007] The hot roller mechanism described in the present invention comprises a hot roller, a slip ring, and a hot roller bearing seat. The hot roller is connected to the hot roller Y-axis motion mechanism via the hot roller bearing seats at both ends. Together, the hot roller mechanism and the hot roller Y-axis motion mechanism extend into the FDM printer, positioned directly above the substrate. The hot roller is electrically heated, with internal heating elements transmitting electrical energy via slip rings. The heating temperature is determined by the deposition material, and the surface is typically constructed of wear-resistant and high-temperature-resistant materials such as stainless steel or carbon steel to ensure optimal performance under high temperatures and frequent friction.

[0008] The collector ring of the present invention is mainly used to realize the transmission of electric energy or signals during the rotation of the hot rolling roller, ensure the normal operation of related components such as the heating element, and avoid the influence of line entanglement caused by rotation on the operation of the equipment.

[0009] The hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism of the present invention comprises: a hot-roller Y-axis stepper motor, a hot-roller Y-axis stepper motor bracket, a hot-roller Y-axis coupling, a hot-roller Y-axis drive screw, a hot-roller Y-axis screw nut, a hot-roller left Y-axis connector, a hot-roller right Y-axis connector, a hot-roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing, a hot-roller Y-axis screw fixed bearing seat, a linear rail, and a rail block. The hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism is connected to the hot-roller mechanism via the hot-roller left Y-axis connector and the hot-roller right Y-axis connector, and the connection is achieved by tightening bolts. The hot-roller Y-axis stepper motor drives the hot-roller Y-axis drive screw to rotate, and the connection between the Y-axis connector and the screw nut drives the hot-roller mechanism 1 to precisely move linearly along the Y-axis direction. Simultaneously, the two linear rails provide stable support and precise guidance for the movement of the hot-roller, achieving precise movement of the hot-roller in the Y-axis direction.

[0010] The linear rail and rail block described in the present invention are fixed to the aluminum profile frame and the fixed shell of the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving device by bolts through the linear rail fixing holes, providing stable guidance and support for the movement of the hot rolling roller, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the hot rolling roller during movement, and reducing the impact of displacement deviation on printing quality.

[0011] The hot roller left and right Y-axis connectors described in this invention are key components connecting the hot roller mechanism to the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism. Bolts are inserted through the following connection holes: the lead screw nut connection hole, the Y-axis linear rail connection hole, and the hot roller connection hole, thus connecting the hot roller mechanism to the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism.

[0012] The hot roller Z-axis movement mechanism described in the present invention includes: a hot roller Z-axis stepper motor, a hot roller Z-axis stepper motor bracket, a hot roller Z-axis coupling, a hot roller Z-axis T-screw, a fixed seat bearing, a hot roller Z-axis block nut, a linear rail block, a linear rail, and a hot roller Z-axis connector. The hot roller Z-axis movement mechanism is connected to the aluminum profile frame via the hot roller Z-axis connector, and then to the hot roller Y-axis movement mechanism, thereby achieving connection with the hot roller mechanism. The hot roller Z-axis stepper motor drives the hot roller Z-axis T-screw to rotate, and power is transmitted to the hot roller mechanism via the hot roller Z-axis block nut and the hot roller Z-axis connector. Simultaneously, the linear rails on both sides provide stable support and precise guidance for the hot roller mechanism's Z-axis movement, ensuring accurate and stable Z-axis movement of the hot roller to meet printing requirements of different heights and layers.

[0013] The hot roller Z-axis connector described in this invention is a key component connecting the hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism with the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism. It connects the hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism with the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism and the hot roller mechanism through the following connecting holes: the Z-axis linear rail connection hole and the Y-axis moving mechanism connection hole.

[0014] The nozzle described in the present invention includes: a wire feeding mechanism, a heat dissipation mechanism, a heat dissipation fan, a heating mechanism, a nozzle, an optical axis connection hole, a nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole, a nozzle back plate and a nozzle housing. Among them, the nozzle housing not only protects and fixes the internal components, but also constitutes a connection structure between the nozzle and the nozzle movement mechanism together with the nozzle back plate. Specifically, the nozzle housing and the nozzle back plate are interlocked to form an optical axis connection hole and a nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole. Through these two connection holes, the nozzle is connected to the nozzle moving optical axis, the upper synchronous belt and the lower synchronous belt on the nozzle movement mechanism, thereby realizing precise motion control of the nozzle in the X and Y directions. The wire feeding mechanism is responsible for accurately delivering the wire material to the nozzle. The heating mechanism heats the wire material to a molten state and extrude it through the nozzle. The heat dissipation mechanism and the heat dissipation fan ensure the stability of the nozzle under high temperature working conditions.

[0015] The main function of the FDM printer back plate of the present invention is to provide comprehensive protection for the electronic components and circuits inside the FDM printer, effectively preventing damage to the internal components from dust, debris and external forces, while providing stable support for the overall structure of the printer.

[0016] The nozzle motion mechanism described in the present invention includes: an upper synchronous belt, a synchronous pulley, a nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor, a lower synchronous belt, an optical axis fixing seat, an optical axis linear bearing, and a nozzle moving optical axis. The nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor is connected to the upper and lower synchronous belts via the synchronous pulley and optical axis fixing seat, forming a complete synchronous belt transmission system. The nozzle moving optical axis is mounted on the optical axis fixing seat via the optical axis linear bearing, providing support and guidance for the movement of the nozzle in the X and Y directions. The nozzle is connected to the nozzle moving optical axis and the synchronous belt transmission system via the optical axis connection hole and the nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole, thereby achieving precise motion control of the nozzle in the X and Y directions under the drive of the nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor.

[0017] The Z-axis moving mechanism of the printing platform described in the present invention includes: linear bearings, a printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw, a printing platform Z-axis stepper motor, a printing platform Z-axis fixed seat and a printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis. Among them, the printing platform Z-axis stepper motor serves as a power source, and drives the printing platform to move up and down along the Z-axis direction by driving the rotation of the printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw. The printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis is installed on the printing platform through linear bearings, providing a high-precision linear motion guide for the printing platform, ensuring that the printing platform remains stable and accurate during movement. The top of the printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw and the printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis are fixed to the printing platform Z-axis fixed seat, and the bottom is fixed to the FDM printer base to ensure their installation accuracy and stability.

[0018] The aluminum profile frame described in this invention includes angle fittings, 5-series aluminum profiles (20×20mm side length), and 8-series aluminum profiles (20×40mm side length). The angle fittings connect the aluminum profiles, precisely joining the standard aluminum profiles together to form a stable aluminum profile frame. This framework also connects and supports the Y-axis and Z-axis motion mechanisms of the hot rolling rollers. As the supporting structure for the entire device, this frame offers significant advantages, including light weight, high strength, and corrosion resistance. It not only provides a stable mounting base for various components but also effectively ensures the overall rigidity and stability of the device, ensuring precise positioning and movement of various components during printing, thereby improving printing quality and efficiency.

[0019] In addition, different thermoplastic materials require different operating parameters for the hot roller. When changing printing materials, parameters such as the hot roller temperature, pressure, and rolling speed should be readjusted according to the material's characteristics. Parameters can be optimized and finalized by performing a small number of trial prints to observe the printing effect and interlayer bonding.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] By applying appropriate high temperature and pressure to adjacent deposited layers through hot rolling rollers, the interlayer materials are fully fused, effectively solving the problem of poor bonding strength between layers in the vertical processing direction of fused deposition molding. Compared with traditional FDM printing, it can meet more application scenarios with higher requirements for mechanical properties. The hot rolling process makes the deposited layer materials more densely arranged, improves the surface quality of the printed parts, reduces surface roughness and layer patterns, and makes the appearance of the printed parts smoother and flatter. The device of the present invention is improved on the basis of the existing FDM printer, mainly adding hot rolling rollers and related drive and control components, and the structure is relatively simple and clear. Compared with some complex additive manufacturing improvement technologies, its manufacturing cost and maintenance cost are lower, and it is easy to promote and apply in actual production, providing a relatively economical and practical FDM printing enhancement solution. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the overall structure of the device of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of the hot rolling roller mechanism of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of the Y-axis moving mechanism of the hot rolling roller of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of the Y-axis moving mechanism of the hot rolling roller of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 A three-dimensional diagram showing the connection between the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism and the aluminum profile frame of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a front view of the connection between the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism and the aluminum profile frame of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 7 A three-dimensional diagram of the Z-axis connecting member of the hot rolling roller of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the connection between the printing platform and the printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9 A three-dimensional diagram of the nozzle motion mechanism of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a front view of the nozzle of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle of the present invention.

[0033] Components include: 1-hot rolling roller mechanism; 2-hot rolling roller Y-axis movement mechanism; 3-hot rolling roller Z-axis movement mechanism; 4-aluminum profile frame; 5-printer head; 6-FDM printer rear panel; 7-printer head movement mechanism; 8-base plate; 9-printing platform; 10-printing platform Z-axis movement mechanism; 11-FDM printer base; 12-hot rolling roller; 13-collector ring; 14-hot rolling roller bearing seat; 15-linear rail; 16-linear rail block; 17-hot rolling roller Y-axis stepper motor bracket. 18-hot rolling roller Y-axis stepper motor; 19-hot rolling roller Y-axis coupling; 20-hot rolling roller Y-axis transmission screw; 21-hot rolling roller left Y-axis connecting piece; 22-hot rolling roller Y-axis screw nut; 23-hot rolling roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing; 24-hot rolling roller Y-axis screw fixed bearing seat; 25-hot rolling roller right Y-axis connecting piece; 26-linear rail fixing hole; 27-screw nut connecting hole; 28-Y-axis linear rail connecting hole; 29-hot rolling roller connecting hole; 30-hot rolling roller Roller Z-axis stepper motor bracket; 31-hot rolling roller Z-axis stepper motor; 32-hot rolling roller Z-axis coupling; 33-hot rolling roller Z-axis T-screw; 34-hot rolling roller Z-axis block nut; 35-fixed seat bearing; 36-hot rolling roller Z-axis connector; 37-Z-axis linear rail connection hole; 38-Y-axis moving mechanism connection hole; 39-linear bearing; 40-print platform Z-axis moving screw; 41-print platform Z-axis stepper motor; 42-print platform Z-axis fixed seat; 43- Print platform Z-axis moving optical axis; 44-upper side synchronous belt; 45-synchronizing wheel; 46-stepping motor of nozzle movement mechanism; 47-lower side synchronous belt; 48-optical axis fixing seat; 49-optical axis linear bearing; 50-nozzle moving optical axis; 51-wire feeding mechanism; 52-heat dissipation mechanism; 53-cooling fan; 54-heating mechanism; 55-nozzle; 56-optical axis connecting hole; 57-connecting hole between nozzle and synchronous belt; 58-nozzle back plate; 59-nozzle housing; 60-angle piece. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the solutions of the present invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] Please refer to Figure 1In this embodiment, a hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device includes: a hot roller mechanism 1, a hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2, a hot roller Z-axis moving mechanism 3, a nozzle 5, an FDM printer back plate 6, a nozzle movement mechanism 7, a substrate 8, a printing platform 9, a printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism 10 and an aluminum profile frame 4.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 2 The hot rolling roller mechanism 1 in this embodiment includes: a hot rolling roller 12, a collector ring 13, and a bearing seat 14; both ends of the hot rolling roller 12 extend into the hot rolling roller bearing seat 14, and the hot rolling roller bearing seat 14 provides fixation and support for the hot rolling roller 12.

[0037] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this embodiment, the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 includes: a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor 18, a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor bracket 17, a hot rolling roller Y-axis coupling 19, a hot rolling roller Y-axis transmission screw 20, a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw nut 22, a hot rolling roller left Y-axis connecting member 21, a hot rolling roller right Y-axis connecting member 25, a hot rolling roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing 23, a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw fixed bearing seat 24, a linear rail 15 and a linear rail block 16; wherein, the upper side of the hot rolling roller left Y-axis connecting member 21 is connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis screw nut 22 through the screw nut connecting hole 27. The left side is connected to the linear rail 15 via the Y-axis linear rail connection hole 28. At the same time, the left linear rail 15 is bolted to the hot roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing 23 through the linear rail fixing hole 26. The right linear rail 15 is bolted to the hot roller right Y-axis connector 25 through the Y-axis linear rail connection hole 28. The hot roller right Y-axis connector 25 is bolted to the hot roller bearing seat 14 in the hot roller mechanism 1 through the hot roller connection hole 29. This connection method not only assists in supporting the hot roller mechanism 1, but also works in conjunction with the left Y-axis connector 21. The connection between the hot roller left Y-axis connector 21, the hot roller right Y-axis connector 25, the linear rail 15, and the hot roller Y-axis lead screw nut 22 realizes the connection between the hot roller mechanism 1 and the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2. The hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 drives the rotation of the hot roller Y-axis drive screw 20. The connection between the Y-axis connector and the screw nut drives the hot roller mechanism 1 to precisely move linearly along the Y-axis. Simultaneously, two linear rails 15 provide stable support and precise guidance for the movement of the hot roller 12, enabling precise movement of the hot roller 12 along the Y-axis and meeting the requirement for uniform rolling of the deposited layer.

[0038] Please refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7In this embodiment, the hot-roller Z-axis moving mechanism 3 includes: a hot-roller Z-axis stepper motor 31, a hot-roller Z-axis stepper motor bracket 30, a hot-roller Z-axis coupling 32, a hot-roller Z-axis T-screw 33, a fixed seat bearing 35, a hot-roller Z-axis block nut 34, a linear rail block 16, a linear rail 15, and a hot-roller Z-axis connecting member 36. The hot-roller Z-axis connecting member 36 is connected to the linear rail 15 via a Z-axis linear rail connecting hole 37 and to the hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 via a Y-axis moving mechanism connecting hole 38. This connection not only provides auxiliary support for the hot-roller Z-axis moving mechanism 3 but also closely cooperates with the hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 to achieve Z-axis movement of the hot-roller mechanism 1. The hot rolling roller Z-axis stepper motor 31 drives the hot rolling roller Z-axis T-screw 33 to rotate, and the power is transmitted to the hot rolling roller mechanism 1 through the hot rolling roller Z-axis block nut 34 and the hot rolling roller Z-axis connector 36. At the same time, the linear rails 15 fixed on both sides of the aluminum profile frame 4 provide stable support and precise guidance for the Z-axis movement of the hot rolling roller mechanism 1, thereby ensuring the balance and precision of the hot rolling roller 12 when moving in the Z-axis direction.

[0039] Please refer to Figure 8 The Z-axis movement mechanism 10 of the printing platform in this embodiment includes a linear bearing 39, a Z-axis moving lead screw 40, a Z-axis stepper motor 41, a Z-axis fixed base 42, and a Z-axis moving optical axis 43. The Z-axis stepper motor 41 drives the Z-axis moving lead screw 40, thereby moving the printing platform 9 up and down along the Z-axis. The Z-axis moving optical axis 43 is mounted on the printing platform 9 via the linear bearing 39, providing linear motion guidance for the printing platform 9 and ensuring smooth and precise movement. The Z-axis moving lead screw 40 and the Z-axis moving optical axis 43 are fixed to the Z-axis fixed base 42 at the top and to the FDM printer base 11 at the bottom.

[0040] Please refer to Figure 9 The nozzle motion mechanism 7 in this embodiment includes an upper synchronous belt 44, a synchronous pulley 45, a nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor 46, a lower synchronous belt 47, an optical axis fixing seat 48, an optical axis linear bearing 49, and a nozzle moving optical axis 50. The nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor 46 is connected to the upper synchronous belt 44 and the lower synchronous belt 47 via the synchronous pulley 45 and the optical axis fixing seat 48, forming a complete synchronous belt transmission system. The nozzle moving optical axis 50 is mounted on the optical axis fixing seat 48 via the optical axis linear bearing 49, providing support and guidance for the movement of the nozzle in the X and Y directions. The nozzle 5 is connected to the nozzle moving optical axis 50 and the synchronous belt transmission system via the optical axis connection hole 56 and the nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole 57. This allows precise control of the nozzle movement in the X and Y directions under the drive of the nozzle motion mechanism stepper motor 46.

[0041] Please refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The nozzle 5 in this embodiment includes: a wire feeding mechanism 51, a heat dissipation mechanism 52, a heat dissipation fan 53, a heating mechanism 54, a nozzle 55, an optical axis connection hole 56, a nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole 57, a nozzle back plate 58, and a nozzle housing 59; the nozzle housing 59 and the nozzle back plate 58 interlock to form the optical axis connection hole 56 and the nozzle and synchronous belt connection hole 57, which are respectively connected to the nozzle moving optical axis 50 and the synchronous belt transmission system. This connection method enables the nozzle 5 to move precisely in the X and Y directions under the drive of the nozzle movement mechanism 7. The wire feeding mechanism 51 is responsible for accurately conveying the wire material to the nozzle 55, the heating mechanism 54 heats the wire material to a molten state and extrudes it through the nozzle 55, and the heat dissipation mechanism 52 and the heat dissipation fan 53 ensure the stability of the nozzle under high temperature working conditions, thereby ensuring the smooth progress of the printing process.

[0042] Please refer to Figures 1 to 10 The hot-roller mechanism 1 is connected to the hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 via the hot-roller bearing seat 14, the hot-roller left Y-axis connector 21, and the hot-roller right Y-axis connector 25. The hot-roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 drives the rotation of the hot-roller Y-axis drive screw 20, driving the two linear rails 15 to move along the Y-axis, achieving precise Y-axis movement of the hot-roller 12. The hot-roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 is also connected to the hot-roller Z-axis moving mechanism 3 via the angle piece 60, the hot-roller Z-axis connector 36, and the aluminum profile frame 4, achieving Z-axis movement of the hot-roller 12. This connection ensures the integrity and structural strength of the device, enabling the various components to work together to ensure precise positioning of the hot-roller during the assisted fused deposition modeling process.

[0043] In another aspect of the present invention, a hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device is implemented as follows:

[0044] 1. Select the appropriate thermoplastic filament according to the printing requirements and install it on the wire feeding mechanism 51 of the nozzle 5. By setting the parameters such as the diameter of the filament in the wire feeding mechanism 51 and the wire feeding speed of the wire feeding stepper motor, the filament can be stably fed into the nozzle 5.

[0045] 2. Set the model parameters for the print in the control system, such as model size, layer thickness, and fill rate. Also set the operating parameters of the hot roller 12, including temperature, pressure, and rolling speed. The temperature parameter should be adjusted based on the type and properties of the filament, generally within a range of 10-30°C above the material's glass transition temperature. The pressure parameter can be initially set based on the thickness of the printed layer and the material's fluidity, and fine-tuned during the actual printing process based on the desired effect. The rolling speed must match the print speed of the nozzle 5 to ensure timely and effective rolling after each layer is deposited.

[0046] 3. Start the FDM printer and hot roller mechanism 1. The printer nozzle 5 begins heating the filament. Once the filament melts and reaches the set temperature and fluidity, the nozzle 5 moves along the X and Y directions along the preset printing path, extruding the molten filament through the nozzle 55 and depositing it on the substrate 8, forming the first deposition layer. After the first layer is deposited, the nozzle 5 returns to its initial position along the -X and -Y directions. Simultaneously, the Z-axis stepper motor 41 drives the Z-axis guide screw 40 of the printing platform, causing the printing platform 9 to move downward along the Z-axis by the preset layer thickness, preparing for the deposition of the next layer.

[0047] 4. The nozzle 5 continues to move along the X and Y directions according to the preset printing path, extruding and depositing the molten filament onto the first deposition layer, forming the second deposition layer. After the second layer is deposited, the nozzle 5 returns to its initial position along the -X and -Y directions. Simultaneously, the Z-axis stepper motor 41 drives the Z-axis guide screw 40 of the printing platform, causing the printing platform 9 to move downward along the Z-axis by the preset layer thickness, preparing for the next layer deposition.

[0048] 5. The control system drives the hot roller Z-axis stepper motor 31 according to a preset program, moving the hot roller 12 to a specific distance above the second deposited layer. The gap between the roller and the deposited layer to be pressed is adjusted based on the required pressure and processing conditions. The hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 drives the hot roller Y-axis drive screw 20, causing the hot roller 12 to roll the second deposited layer in the Y-axis direction at a set speed and pressure. During the rolling process, heat from the hot roller 12 is transferred to the deposited layer, further softening the surface material of the deposited layer. Under the action of pressure and temperature, the contact area between the third and second deposited layers is increased, further fusing the two deposited layers.

[0049] 6. After the second layer is rolled, the hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 continues to drive the hot roller Y-axis drive screw 20, returning the hot roller 12 to its initial position in the Y-axis direction. The nozzle 5 then deposits the third layer. The nozzle 5 moves along the X and Y directions according to the preset printing path, extruding the molten filament through the nozzle 55 and depositing it on the second deposition layer, forming the third deposition layer. After the second layer is deposited, the nozzle 5 returns to its initial position in the -X and -Y directions. Simultaneously, the print platform 9 moves downward in the Z direction by the preset layer thickness to prepare for the next layer deposition.

[0050] 7. The hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor 18 drives the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2, so that the hot rolling roller 12 moves in the Y-axis direction to roll the third deposited layer with a certain pressure.

[0051] 8. After the third layer is rolled, the hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 continues to drive the hot roller Y-axis drive screw 20, returning the hot roller 12 to its initial position in the Y-axis direction. The nozzle 5 then moves along the X and Y directions according to the preset printing path, extruding and depositing the molten filament onto the second deposition layer, forming the fourth deposition layer. After the fourth layer is deposited, the nozzle 5 returns to its initial position along the -X and -Y directions. Simultaneously, the print platform 9 moves downward in the Z direction by the preset layer thickness to prepare for the next layer deposition.

[0052] 9. The hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 drives the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 to move the hot roller 12 in the Y-axis direction to roll the fourth deposited layer with a certain pressure.

[0053] 10. After the Nth layer is rolled, the hot roller Y-axis stepper motor 18 continues to drive the hot roller Y-axis motion mechanism 2, returning the hot roller 12 to its initial position in the Y-axis direction. The nozzle 5 then moves along the X and Y directions according to the preset printing path, extruding and depositing the molten filament onto the N+1 deposition layer, forming the N+1 deposition layer. After the N+1 layer is deposited, the nozzle 5 returns to its initial position along the -X and -Y directions. Simultaneously, the print platform 9 moves downward in the Z direction by the preset layer thickness to prepare for the next layer deposition.

[0054] 11. The hot roller Y-axis stepping motor 18 drives the hot roller Y-axis moving mechanism 2 to move the hot roller 12 in the Y-axis direction to roll the N+1th deposited layer with a certain pressure.

[0055] Repeat the above-mentioned rolling process to further fuse the adjacent deposited layers. Afterwards, each time a layer of deposition is completed, the hot roller 12 rolls the new deposited layer until the entire model is printed.

[0056] In the traditional fused deposition modeling process, the filament is melted in the nozzle 5 and then extruded and deposited. Because the lower layer material cools rapidly before the upper layer material is deposited, the interlayer molecular diffusion is insufficient and the bonding strength is weak. The present invention introduces a hot roller auxiliary device, which uses a hot roller 12 to roll the deposited layer after each layer is deposited. The heat from the hot roller 12 softens the surface material of the deposited layer again, reaching or approaching the glass transition temperature of the material. At this time, the activity of the material molecules increases and the fluidity is enhanced. This effectively improves the interlayer bonding strength. At the same time, this thermomechanical effect can also make the deposited layer materials more densely arranged, reduce gaps and defects, improve the density and mechanical properties of the printed parts, and improve the quality and application range of the printed parts.

[0057] In this application, terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," and "center" indicate positions or locations based on the positions or locations shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily intended to better describe this application and its embodiments and are not intended to limit the devices, elements, or components indicated to having a specific orientation, or to being constructed or operated in a specific orientation.

[0058] Furthermore, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connected," and "provided with" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, removable connections, or integral structures; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or connections through an intermediary; or internal communication between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0059] The above content fully describes the technical solutions, implementation methods, beneficial effects, and principles of the present invention, and is intended to provide clear and detailed technical guidance to those skilled in the relevant fields, ensuring the accurate implementation and application of the present invention. Furthermore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall encompass all improvements and modifications based on the technical concepts presented, to encourage technological innovation and development.

Claims

1. A hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device, characterized in that: The invention comprises a hot rolling roller mechanism (1), a hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2), a hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3), a nozzle (5), an FDM printer back plate (6), a nozzle motion mechanism (7), a base plate (8), a printing platform (9), a printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism (10) and an aluminum profile frame (4); wherein the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) is connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) and the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3) on the aluminum profile frame (4) through corresponding connecting parts; the nozzle (5) is driven by the nozzle motion mechanism (7) to move in the X and Y directions according to a preset path. The hot roller mechanism (1) moves in the Z direction, extrude the melted wire and deposit it on the substrate (8) or the previous deposition layer to form a new deposition layer; after the deposition is completed, the nozzle (5) returns to the origin, and the printing platform (9) moves down along the Z axis driven by the printing platform Z axis moving mechanism (10) to prepare for the deposition of the next layer; after the deposition layer is formed, the hot roller mechanism (1) moves a corresponding distance along the Z direction to above the deposition layer and keeps the Z axis position unchanged under the drive of the hot roller Z axis moving mechanism (3), and then the hot roller mechanism (1) is driven by the hot roller Y axis moving mechanism (2) to move along the Y axis to apply roller pressure to the deposition layer; The hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) comprises: a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor (18), a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor bracket (17), a hot rolling roller Y-axis coupling (19), a hot rolling roller Y-axis transmission screw (20), a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw nut (22), a hot rolling roller left Y-axis connecting piece (21), a hot rolling roller right Y-axis connecting piece (25), a hot rolling roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing (23), a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw fixed bearing seat (24), a linear rail (15) and a linear rail block (16); wherein the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) is connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor (18), a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor bracket (17), a hot rolling roller Y-axis coupling (19), a hot rolling roller Y-axis transmission screw (20), a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw nut (22), a hot rolling roller left Y-axis connecting piece (21), a hot rolling roller right Y-axis connecting piece (25), a hot rolling roller Y-axis moving device fixed housing (23), a hot rolling roller Y-axis screw fixed bearing seat (24), a linear rail (15) and a linear rail block (16); wherein, the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) is connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor (18), a hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor bracket (17 ... The Y-axis connecting member (21) on the left side of the hot rolling roller and the Y-axis connecting member (25) on the right side of the hot rolling roller are connected to the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) by means of bolts tightening. The hot rolling roller Y-axis driving screw (20) is driven to rotate by the hot rolling roller Y-axis stepping motor (18). The hot rolling roller mechanism (1) is driven to move accurately in a straight line along the Y-axis direction by the connection between the Y-axis connecting member and the screw nut. At the same time, the two linear rails (15) provide stable support and accurate guidance for the movement of the hot rolling roller (12), thereby realizing accurate movement of the hot rolling roller (12) in the Y-axis direction. The hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3) comprises: a hot rolling roller Z-axis stepping motor (31), a hot rolling roller Z-axis stepping motor bracket (30), a hot rolling roller Z-axis coupling (32), a hot rolling roller Z-axis T-shaped lead screw (33), a fixed seat bearing (35), a hot rolling roller Z-axis block nut (34), a linear rail block (16), a linear rail (15) and a hot rolling roller Z-axis connecting piece (36); wherein the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3) is connected to the aluminum profile frame (4) through the hot rolling roller Z-axis connecting piece (36), and is further connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (4). The hot rolling roller mechanism (2) is connected to the hot rolling roller mechanism (1); the hot rolling roller Z-axis stepping motor (31) drives the hot rolling roller Z-axis T-shaped lead screw (33) to rotate, and the power is transmitted to the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) via the hot rolling roller Z-axis block nut (34) and the hot rolling roller Z-axis connecting member (36). At the same time, the linear rails (15) on both sides provide stable support and precise guidance for the movement of the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) in the Z-axis direction, ensuring that the hot rolling roller (12) moves accurately and stably in the Z-axis direction to meet the printing layers and printing requirements of different heights.

2. A hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot rolling roller mechanism (1) comprises: a hot rolling roller (12), a collector ring (13) and a hot rolling roller bearing seat (14); the hot rolling roller (12) is connected to the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) through the hot rolling roller bearing seats (14) at both ends, and the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) and the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) are extended into the FDM printer together and are positioned directly above the substrate (8); the hot rolling roller (12) is heated by electric heating, and a heating element is provided inside the hot rolling roller, and electric energy transmission of the hot rolling roller (12) during rotation is realized through the collector ring (13).

3. The hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot rolling roller left side Y-axis connecting member (21) and the hot rolling roller right side Y-axis connecting member (25) are key components for connecting the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) and the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2); the hot rolling roller mechanism (1) and the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) are connected by tightening bolts through the following connecting holes: the lead screw nut connecting hole (27), the Y-axis linear rail connecting hole (28), and the hot rolling roller connecting hole (29).

4. The hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hot rolling roller Z-axis connecting member (36) is a key component for connecting the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3) and the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2); it is connected by tightening bolts through the following connecting holes: the Z-axis linear rail connecting hole (37) and the Y-axis moving mechanism connecting hole (38), thereby realizing the connection between the hot rolling roller Z-axis moving mechanism (3), the hot rolling roller Y-axis moving mechanism (2) and the hot rolling roller mechanism (1).

5. The hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle (5) includes: a wire feeding mechanism (51), a heat dissipation mechanism (52), a heat dissipation fan (53), a heating mechanism (54), a nozzle (55), an optical axis connecting hole (56), a nozzle and synchronous belt connecting hole (57), a nozzle back plate (58) and a nozzle shell (59); wherein the nozzle shell (59) not only plays the role of protecting and fixing the internal components, but also together with the nozzle back plate (58) constitutes a connection structure between the nozzle (5) and the nozzle movement mechanism (7); specifically, the nozzle shell (59) and the nozzle back plate (58) are interlocked to form an optical axis connecting hole. The nozzle (5) is connected to the nozzle moving optical axis (50), the upper synchronous belt (44) and the lower synchronous belt (47) on the nozzle movement mechanism (7) through these two connection holes, thereby realizing precise movement control of the nozzle in the X and Y directions; the wire feeding mechanism (51) is responsible for accurately delivering the wire to the nozzle (55); the heating mechanism (54) heats the wire to a molten state and extrude it through the nozzle (55); the heat dissipation mechanism (52) and the heat dissipation fan (53) ensure the stability of the nozzle under high temperature working conditions.

6. The hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle movement mechanism (7) comprises: an upper synchronous belt (44), a synchronous wheel (45), a nozzle movement mechanism stepper motor (46), a lower synchronous belt (47), an optical axis fixing seat (48), an optical axis linear bearing (49) and a nozzle moving optical axis (50); wherein the nozzle movement mechanism stepper motor (46) is connected to the upper synchronous belt (44) and the lower synchronous belt (47) through the synchronous wheel (45) and the optical axis fixing seat (48), forming a complete synchronous belt transmission system; the nozzle moving optical axis (50) is installed on the optical axis fixing seat (48) through the optical axis linear bearing (49), providing support and guidance for the movement of the nozzle in the X and Y directions; the nozzle (5) is connected to the nozzle moving optical axis (50) and the synchronous belt transmission system through the optical axis connecting hole (56) and the nozzle and synchronous belt connecting hole (57), thereby realizing precise motion control of the nozzle in the X and Y directions under the drive of the nozzle movement mechanism stepper motor (46).

7. The hot roller assisted fused deposition modeling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The printing platform Z-axis moving mechanism (10) includes: a linear bearing (39), a printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw (40), a printing platform Z-axis stepping motor (41), a printing platform Z-axis fixed seat (42) and a printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis (43); wherein, the printing platform Z-axis stepping motor (41) serves as a power source, and drives the printing platform (9) to move up and down along the Z-axis direction by driving the rotation of the printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw (40); the printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis (43) is installed on the printing platform (9) through the linear bearing (39), providing a high-precision linear motion guide for the printing platform (9), ensuring that the printing platform (9) remains stable and accurate during the movement; the printing platform Z-axis moving lead screw (40) and the printing platform Z-axis moving optical axis (43) are fixed on the printing platform Z-axis fixed seat (42) at the top and fixed on the FDM printer base (11) at the bottom, ensuring their installation accuracy and stability.

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