A 3D printing color-changing device and method

Abstract

This invention discloses a 3D printing color-changing device and method, relating to the field of 3D printing. The 3D printing color-changing device includes a recycle rack, a print head main frame, and multiple replacement parts. The print head main frame is movable in both the X and Y directions, and the recycle rack is mounted on the printer frame; alternatively, the print head main frame is movable in the X direction, and the recycle rack is mounted on a printing platform movable in the Y direction. Multiple replacement parts are detachably mounted sequentially on the recycle rack along the X direction. The print head main frame can remove and return the replacement parts to the recycle rack. The replacement parts are used for filament extrusion. The 3D printing color-changing device and method provided by this invention reduce costs, improve color-changing efficiency, and ensure good printing effects and quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of 3D printing, and in particular to a 3D printing color-changing device and method. Background Technology

[0002] 3D printing creates three-dimensional objects by printing layers of adhesive material, often requiring color changes during the printing process. One method is the AMS (Automatic Material Changing) system, an external automated material changing system for desktop 3D printers. This system consists of multiple material trays and a changing mechanism that automatically replaces different colors of material as needed, enabling multi-color printing. Currently, this system is the most widely recognized and well-known multi-color 3D printing material changing system among desktop 3D printer users. When a color change is needed, the system uses a motor within the external AMS device to retract the material tray, returning the previous color of filament to the cartridge. Then, it selects the next color to be changed and feeds it into the print head, achieving multi-color printing. However, this system requires selectively driving the retraction and insertion of different colors of filament, necessitates communication and synchronization with the printer, making control complex. It also suffers from slow color changing speeds, significant material waste, high system costs, and is only applicable to specific models such as the Topzhu X-series high-end printers.

[0003] Another approach is the Toolchange system. The Toolchange system uses multiple printheads, allowing for multi-color printing by changing different printheads. It is currently one of the most influential solutions for multi-color 3D printing. This solution involves placing multiple printheads on a printing gantry frame. When switching to the next color, the main frame moves to the position of the current color's printhead, places the existing printhead, and then moves to the position of the next required color's printhead to retrieve it, continuing printing to achieve multi-color printing. However, this technology relies on printhead switching for multi-color printing. Switching itself presents challenges in tool setting accuracy, potentially leading to printing misalignment and quality issues. Furthermore, the switching structure is complex, and problems with program control and slicing are more likely to occur. Since each color requires an additional printhead, and the heavy head switching necessitates a remote extruder, this solution results in slow printing speeds, lower printing accuracy, and higher costs, thus limiting its widespread adoption in the market. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the above technical problems, this invention provides a 3D printing color-changing device and method, which reduces costs, improves color-changing efficiency, and ensures good printing results and quality.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solution:

[0006] This invention provides a 3D printing color-changing device, including a recycling rack, a printhead main frame, and multiple replacement parts. The printhead main frame is movable in the X and Y directions, and the recycling rack is mounted on the printer frame; alternatively, the printhead main frame is movable in the X direction, and the recycling rack is mounted on a printing platform movable in the Y direction. The multiple replacement parts are detachably mounted sequentially on the recycling rack along the X direction. The printhead main frame can remove the replacement parts from the recycling rack and return them to the recycling rack. The replacement parts are used for filament extrusion.

[0007] Preferably, the recycling rack includes a main frame, and a plurality of engagement grooves for accommodating the replacement part are sequentially arranged along the X direction on one side of the main frame. Each engagement groove is provided with a first magnet, the main frame of the print head is provided with a second magnet, and the rear side of the replacement part is provided with a third magnet with the opposite polarity to the first magnet and a fourth magnet with the opposite polarity to the second magnet.

[0008] Preferably, the replacement part includes a main frame of the replacement part and an extrusion mechanism mounted on the main frame of the replacement part. The third magnet and the fourth magnet are arranged sequentially from top to bottom on the rear side of the main frame of the replacement part, and a drive mechanism for driving the extrusion mechanism is provided on the main frame of the printhead.

[0009] Preferably, a plurality of protrusions are sequentially arranged on one side of the main frame along the X direction, and an engagement groove is formed between any two adjacent protrusions. Positioning grooves matching the protrusion structure are provided on both the left and right sides of the replacement main frame.

[0010] Preferably, the extrusion mechanism includes a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, an extrusion main gear, an extrusion secondary gear, a secondary gear holder, and a driven wheel. The first rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame. The extrusion main gear and the driven wheel are sequentially fixedly sleeved on the first rotating shaft from back to front. The driving mechanism is used to drive the driven wheel to rotate. The secondary gear holder is mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame. The second rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the secondary gear holder. The extrusion secondary gear is fixedly sleeved on the second rotating shaft and meshes with the extrusion main gear. The rear end is provided with a first annular groove, in which a plurality of first extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially. The rear end of the second rotating shaft is provided with a second annular groove corresponding to the position of the first annular groove, in which a plurality of second extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially. The upper and lower parts of the replacement part main frame are respectively provided with a consumable inlet hole and a consumable outlet hole. The printhead main frame is provided with a consumable lead-out hole that corresponds to the position of the consumable outlet hole. The consumable can enter between the first annular groove and the second annular groove through the consumable inlet hole and extend out through the consumable outlet hole and the consumable lead-out hole.

[0011] Preferably, the extrusion mechanism further includes an adjusting screw and a spring. The upper end of the auxiliary gear frame is rotatably mounted on the main frame of the replacement part via a pin. The auxiliary gear frame is provided with a T-shaped hole, the axial direction of which is perpendicular to the axial direction of the pin. The T-shaped hole includes a first circular hole and a second circular hole. The inner diameter of the first circular hole is larger than the inner diameter of the second circular hole. A threaded hole is provided on the side of the main frame of the replacement part near the auxiliary gear frame. The second circular hole is located between the first circular hole and the threaded hole. The inner diameter of the second circular hole is larger than the outer diameter of the adjusting screw. The spring is disposed in the first circular hole and sleeved on the outside of the adjusting screw. The adjusting screw passes through the first circular hole and the second circular hole in sequence and is installed in the threaded hole.

[0012] Preferably, the drive mechanism includes an extrusion motor and a drive wheel. The extrusion motor is mounted on the main frame of the print head, and the drive wheel is fixedly sleeved on the power output shaft of the extrusion motor. The drive wheel can mesh with the driven wheel.

[0013] Preferably, the main frame of the printhead includes a base frame, a bottom plate, a top plate, a rear side plate, and a front side plate. The bottom plate is disposed at the rear end of the upper part of the base frame. The rear side plate and the front side plate are respectively disposed at the rear end and the front end of the upper part of the bottom plate. The top plate is disposed at the rear end of the upper part of the front side plate. The driving mechanism is disposed on the front side plate. The second magnet is disposed on the rear side plate.

[0014] Preferably, the rear side of the main frame of the replacement part is provided with a fastening groove, and the front side of the rear side plate is provided with a fastening block that matches the fastening groove structure; the upper and lower parts of the front end of the main frame of the replacement part are respectively provided with a first locking block and a second locking block; the lower left and right sides of the top plate are each provided with a first protrusion, and a first locking groove matching the first locking block structure is formed between the two first protrusions; a first gap exists between the first protrusion and the front side plate for the first locking block to move in the X direction; the upper left and right sides of the bottom plate are each provided with a second protrusion, and a second locking groove matching the second locking block structure is formed between the two second protrusions; a second gap exists between the second locking block and the front side plate for the second locking block to move in the X direction.

[0015] This invention also provides a 3D printing color-changing method based on a 3D printing color-changing device, comprising the following steps:

[0016] Get the file to be printed;

[0017] Determine the three-dimensional model of the document to be printed;

[0018] The three-dimensional model is colored to obtain a colored three-dimensional model.

[0019] The colored 3D model is sliced ​​to obtain individual sliced ​​3D models.

[0020] Print the sliced ​​3D model and identify whether the sliced ​​3D model has undergone color changes;

[0021] If so, then the main frame of the print head can be controlled to perform a color-changing operation independently, or the main frame of the print head and the printing platform can be controlled to perform a color-changing operation; the color-changing operation is to replace the replacement part corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment in the slice 3D model with the replacement part corresponding to the color state parameter of the current moment.

[0022] The present invention achieves the following technical effects compared to the prior art:

[0023] The 3D printing color-changing device of the present invention includes a recycling rack, a printhead main frame, and multiple replacement parts. The printhead main frame is movable in both the X and Y directions, and the recycling rack is mounted on the printer frame; alternatively, the printhead main frame is movable in the X direction, and the recycling rack is mounted on a printing platform movable in the Y direction. Multiple replacement parts are detachably mounted sequentially on the recycling rack along the X direction. The printhead main frame can remove the replacement parts from the recycling rack and return them to it. In this invention, when color changing is required, only the replacement part used for filament extrusion needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire printhead. After color changing, there are no issues with tool setting accuracy, thus avoiding adverse effects on printing accuracy and quality, ensuring good printing results and quality. The 3D printing color-changing device is installed based on the printer's own structure, eliminating the need for additional power and control components, reducing costs, facilitating control, and improving color-changing efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a front view of the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a side view of the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the recycling rack in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the replacement part in the main frame of the print head when it is in the rear position in the 3D printing color changing device provided by the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the replacement part in the front position of the main frame of the print head in the 3D printing color changing device provided by the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the main frame of the print head and the drive mechanism in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8This is a side view of the main frame of the print head and the drive mechanism in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the first three-dimensional structure of the replacement part in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second three-dimensional structure of the replacement part in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the third three-dimensional structure of the replacement part in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0036] Figure 12 An exploded view of the replacement part in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention;

[0037] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation of the first rotating shaft, the main extrusion gear, and the driven wheel on the main frame of the replacement part in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation of the second rotating shaft and the extrusion auxiliary gear on the auxiliary gear frame in the 3D printing color-changing device provided by the present invention.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Recycling rack; 11. Main frame; 12. Protrusion; 13. Engaging groove; 2. Print head main frame; 21. Base frame; 22. Base plate; 23. Top plate; 24. Rear side plate; 25. Front side plate; 26. First protrusion; 27. Second protrusion; 28. Second magnet; 29. ​​Fastening block; 210. Consumable outlet hole; 211. First gap; 212. Second gap; 3. Replacement part; 31. Replacement part main frame; 32. Third magnet; 33. Fourth magnet 34. Iron; 35. Snap-fit ​​groove; 36. Positioning groove; 37. First rotating shaft; 38. Extrusion main gear; 39. Driven wheel; 30. Secondary gear frame; 310. Second rotating shaft; 311. Extrusion secondary gear; 312. Pin hole; 313. T-shaped hole; 314. Threaded hole; 315. Adjusting screw; 316. Consumable inlet hole; 317. Consumable outlet hole; 318. First locking block; 319. Second locking block; 320. Cover plate; 321. First mounting groove; 4. Extrusion motor; 5. Drive wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] The purpose of this invention is to provide a 3D printing color-changing device and method, which reduces costs, improves color-changing efficiency, and ensures good printing effects and printing quality.

[0042] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0043] like Figures 1-14 As shown, this embodiment provides a 3D printing color-changing device, including a recycle rack 1, a printhead main frame 2, and multiple replacement parts 3. For a gantry-type printer, the printhead main frame 2 can move in the X and Y directions, and the recycle rack 1 is used to mount on the printer frame. In this case, the printhead main frame 2 or the printing platform can move in the Z direction. Specifically, when the printhead main frame 2 can move in the X and Y directions, and the printing platform can move in the Z direction, the installation height of the printhead main frame 2 is consistent with the installation height of the recycle rack 1. For a Cartesian-type printer, the printhead main frame 2 can move in the X direction, and the recycle rack 1 is used to mount on a printing platform that can move in the Y direction. In this case, the printhead main frame 2 can move in the Z direction. Multiple replacement parts 3 are detachably installed on the recycling rack 1 in sequence along the X direction. The printhead main frame 2 can remove the replacement parts 3 from the recycling rack 1 and put the replacement parts 3 back on the recycling rack 1. The replacement parts 3 are used for the extrusion of consumables. The printhead main frame 2 is provided with a drive mechanism for driving the replacement parts 3 to achieve the extrusion of consumables.

[0044] When color changes are needed, only the replacement part 3 used for filament extrusion needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire print head. After color change, there is no issue with tool setting accuracy, thus avoiding any adverse effects on printing accuracy and quality. This ensures good printing results and quality. The 3D printing color change device is installed based on the printer's own structure, without the need for additional power or control components, reducing costs and facilitating control while improving color change efficiency.

[0045] like Figure 4As shown, the recycling rack 1 includes a main frame 11. Multiple engagement slots 13 for accommodating replacement parts 3 are sequentially arranged along the X direction on one side of the main frame 11. The replacement parts 3 can be engaged in the engagement slots 13. Each engagement slot 13 is provided with a first magnet. A second magnet 28 is provided on the printhead main frame 2. A third magnet 32 ​​with the opposite polarity to the first magnet and a fourth magnet 33 with the opposite polarity to the second magnet 28 are provided on the rear side of the replacement parts 3. When the first magnet and the third magnet 32 ​​attract each other, the replacement parts 3 can be stably installed in the engagement slots 13. When the second magnet 28 and the fourth magnet 33 attract each other, the replacement parts 3 can be stably installed in the printhead main frame 2.

[0046] The replacement part 3 includes a replacement part main frame 31 and an extrusion mechanism mounted on the replacement part main frame 31. A third magnet 32 ​​and a fourth magnet 33 are arranged sequentially from top to bottom on the rear side of the replacement part main frame 31. A drive mechanism for driving the extrusion mechanism is provided on the printhead main frame 2, thereby enabling the extrusion of consumables.

[0047] Multiple protrusions 12 are sequentially arranged along the X direction on one side of the main frame 11. A meshing groove 13 is formed between any two adjacent protrusions 12. Each first magnet is located on the front side of the main frame 11 and between any two adjacent protrusions 12. Positioning grooves 35 matching the structure of the protrusions 12 are provided on both the left and right sides of the replacement main frame 31. During the placement of the replacement main frame 31 into the meshing groove 13, the positioning grooves 35 move along the Y direction of the protrusions 12. The structure of the positioning grooves 35 cooperating with the protrusions 12 and the structure of the first magnets cooperating with the third magnets 32 work together to ensure that the replacement part 3 can be stably installed in the meshing groove 13 of the recycling rack 1.

[0048] In this specific embodiment, both the left and right sides of the protrusion 12 are arc-shaped structures, and the positioning groove 35 is an arc-shaped groove.

[0049] like Figures 9-14As shown, the extrusion mechanism includes a first rotating shaft 36, a second rotating shaft 310, an extrusion main gear 37, an extrusion secondary gear 311, a secondary gear carrier 39, and a driven wheel 38. The first rotating shaft 36 is rotatably mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame 31, and the axis of the first rotating shaft 36 is aligned with the Y direction. The extrusion main gear 37 and the driven wheel 38 are sequentially fixedly sleeved on the first rotating shaft 36 from back to front. A drive mechanism is used to drive the driven wheel 38 to rotate. The secondary gear carrier 39 is mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame 31, and the second rotating shaft 310 is rotatably mounted on the secondary gear carrier 39, with the axis of the second rotating shaft 310 aligned with the Y direction. The extrusion secondary gear 311 is fixedly sleeved on the second rotating shaft 310. The first rotating shaft 36 has a first annular groove at its rear end, in which multiple first extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially. The second rotating shaft 310 has a second annular groove at its rear end, corresponding to the position of the first annular groove, in which multiple second extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially. The upper and lower parts of the replacement main frame 31 are respectively provided with a consumable inlet hole 316 and a consumable outlet hole 317. The printhead main frame 2 is provided with a consumable lead-out hole 210 that corresponds to the position of the consumable outlet hole 317. The consumable can enter between the first and second annular grooves through the consumable inlet hole 316 and extend out through the consumable outlet hole 317 and the consumable lead-out hole 210. Specifically, the first and second extrusion teeth clamp and directly contact the consumable, and are driven by the drive mechanism to directly correspond to the movement of the consumable.

[0050] In this embodiment, the consumable can be inserted into the replacement part 3. The replacement part 3 always clamps the consumable. One replacement part 3 corresponds to one type of consumable. Switching the replacement part 3 can replace the consumable.

[0051] Specifically, the main frame 31 of the replacement part is provided with a first mounting groove 321 for mounting the first rotating shaft 36 and the extrusion main gear 37. The opening direction of the first mounting groove 321 faces the secondary gear carrier 39, and the first rotating shaft 36 is rotatably mounted in the first mounting groove 321 through a first bearing. The secondary gear carrier 39 is provided with a second mounting groove on the side facing the main frame 31 of the replacement part, and the second rotating shaft 310 is rotatably mounted in the second mounting groove through a second bearing.

[0052] During operation, the drive mechanism drives the driven wheel 38 to rotate, causing the first rotating shaft 36 and the extrusion main gear 37 to rotate, which in turn causes the extrusion secondary gear 311 and the second rotating shaft 310 to rotate. At this time, the consumable material located between the first annular groove and the second annular groove moves downward under the clamping action of the first extrusion tooth and the second extrusion tooth, thereby realizing the extrusion of the consumable material.

[0053] The extrusion mechanism also includes an adjusting screw 315 and a spring. The upper end of the auxiliary gear frame 39 is rotatably mounted on the replacement main frame 31 via a pin. The replacement main frame 31 is provided with a pin hole 312 for mounting the pin. The auxiliary gear frame 39 is provided with a T-shaped hole 313. The axial direction of the T-shaped hole 313 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the pin. The T-shaped hole 313 includes a first circular hole and a second circular hole. The inner diameter of the first circular hole is larger than the inner diameter of the second circular hole. The replacement main frame 31 is provided with a threaded hole 314 on the side near the auxiliary gear frame 39. The second circular hole is located between the first circular hole and the threaded hole 314. The inner diameter of the second circular hole is larger than the outer diameter of the adjusting screw 315. The spring is set in the first circular hole and sleeved on the outside of the adjusting screw 315. The adjusting screw 315 passes through the first circular hole and the second circular hole in sequence and is installed in the threaded hole 314.

[0054] Turning the adjusting screw 315 inward causes the secondary gear carrier 39 to rotate towards the side closer to the main frame 31 of the replacement part. This reduces the distance between the second rotating shaft 310 and the first rotating shaft 36, thereby increasing the clamping force on the consumable. Conversely, turning the adjusting screw 315 outward causes the secondary gear carrier 39 to rotate away from the main frame 31 of the replacement part. This increases the distance between the second rotating shaft 310 and the first rotating shaft 36, thereby reducing the clamping force on the consumable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the clamping force on the consumable can be adjusted according to actual needs by turning the adjusting screw 315.

[0055] The extrusion mechanism also includes a cover plate 320, which is disposed on the front side of the replacement main frame 31 and covers the front of the driven wheel 38. Specifically, the cover plate 320 is fixed to the front side of the replacement main frame 31 by bolts.

[0056] The drive mechanism includes an extrusion motor 4 and a drive wheel 5. The extrusion motor 4 is mounted on the main frame 2 of the printhead, and the drive wheel 5 is fixedly sleeved on the power output shaft of the extrusion motor 4. The drive wheel 5 can mesh with the driven wheel 38. During operation, the extrusion motor 4 drives the drive wheel 5 to rotate, which in turn causes the driven wheel 38 to rotate. The extrusion motor 4 can control the precise retraction of consumables or provide power for extrusion.

[0057] In this embodiment, the main frame 2 of the printhead contains the basic elements of a normal printhead. The two gears responsible for engaging the material in the extrusion section are separated to form a separate replaceable module. The main frame 2 of the printhead contains the extrusion motor 4 and the drive wheel 5 of the extrusion section.

[0058] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the main frame 2 of the printhead includes a base frame 21, a bottom plate 22, a top plate 23, a rear side plate 24, and a front side plate 25. The bottom plate 22 is located at the rear end of the upper part of the base frame 21, and the consumable lead-out hole 210 is located on the bottom plate 22. The rear side plate 24 and the front side plate 25 are respectively located at the rear end and front end of the upper part of the bottom plate 22. The top plate 23 is located at the rear end of the upper part of the front side plate 25. The second magnet 28 is located on the rear side plate 24. In this embodiment, the rear side plate 24 is provided with a mounting hole for installing the second magnet 28. The drive mechanism is located on the front side plate 25. Specifically, the extrusion motor 4 is located on the front side of the front side plate 25, and the power output shaft of the extrusion motor 4 passes through the front side plate 25 and extends to the rear end, where the drive wheel 5 is fixedly sleeved.

[0059] The rear side of the replacement main frame 31 is provided with a fastening groove 34, and the front side of the rear side plate 24 is provided with a fastening block 29 that matches the structure of the fastening groove 34. The upper and lower parts of the front end of the replacement main frame 31 are respectively provided with a first locking block 318 and a second locking block 319. The lower left and right sides of the top plate 23 are each provided with a first protrusion 26, and the two first protrusions 26 form a first locking groove that matches the structure of the first locking block 318. There is a first gap 211 between the first protrusion 26 and the front side plate 25 for the first locking block 318 to move in the X direction. The upper left and right sides of the bottom plate 22 are each provided with a second protrusion 27, and the two second protrusions 27 form a second locking groove that matches the structure of the second locking block 319. There is a second gap 212 between the second locking block 319 and the front side plate 25 for the second locking block 319 to move in the X direction.

[0060] Specifically, the left, right, and rear sides of the first and second locking blocks 318 and 319 are all inclined surfaces, and the inclination angle of each inclined surface is 45°; the front side and the side near the other first protrusion 26 of each first protrusion 26 are all inclined surfaces, and the inclination angle of each inclined surface is 45°; the front side and the side near the other second protrusion 27 of each second protrusion 27 are all inclined surfaces, and the inclination angle of each inclined surface is 45°, so that the replacement part 3 can be stably fitted when it is in the rear position in the printhead main frame 2.

[0061] like Figure 5As shown, in the initial state, the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment is in the rear position in the main frame 2 of the printhead, that is, the second magnet 28 and the fourth magnet 33 are attracted to each other, the fastening block 29 is located in the fastening groove 34, the first locking block 318 is located in the first locking slot, the second locking block 319 is located in the second locking slot, and the consumable lead-out hole 210 and the consumable outlet hole 317 are correspondingly positioned, that is, the replacement part 3 and the main frame 2 of the printhead are relatively fixed at this time; when the replacement part 3 needs to be put back on the main frame 2 of the printhead, first The printhead main frame 2 and the recycling rack 1 are positioned at the same height, and the positioning groove 35 and the protrusion 12 are positioned at the same height. By controlling the movement of the printhead main frame 2 in the X direction, the replacement part 3 is aligned with its corresponding engagement groove 13 on the recycling rack 1. By controlling the movement of the printhead main frame 2 or the printing platform in the Y direction, the replacement part 3 is installed into its corresponding engagement groove 13 on the recycling rack 1, and the replacement part 3 changes from a rear position to a front position in the printhead main frame 2. Figure 6 As shown, during this process, the fourth magnet 33 disengages from the second magnet 28, the engaging groove 34 disengages from the engaging block 29, the first locking block 318 disengages from the first locking slot and enters the first gap 211, the second locking block 319 disengages from the second locking slot and enters the second gap 212, and the replacement part 3 is engaged in its corresponding engagement groove 13, and the first magnet and the third magnet 32 ​​attract each other, thus realizing the return of the replacement part 3 to the recycling rack 1. At this time, the printhead main frame 2 can move relative to the replacement part 3 in the X direction.

[0062] Then, the printhead main frame 2 removes the replacement part 3 corresponding to the current color state parameter. Specifically, the printhead main frame 2 is controlled to move in the X direction so that it corresponds to the position of the replacement part 3 corresponding to the current color state parameter. At this time, the replacement part 3 is in the front position in the printhead main frame 2. By controlling the printhead main frame 2 or the printing platform to move in the Y direction, the replacement part 3 is made to be in the rear position in the printhead main frame 2. At this time, the replacement part 3 is relatively fixed with the printhead main frame 2, and subsequent printing work can be performed by controlling the printhead main frame 2.

[0063] This embodiment also provides a 3D printing color-changing method based on a 3D printing color-changing device, including the following steps:

[0064] Get the file to be printed;

[0065] Determine the 3D model of the document to be printed;

[0066] The 3D model is colored to obtain the colored 3D model;

[0067] The colored 3D model is sliced ​​to obtain individual sliced ​​3D models.

[0068] Print the sliced ​​3D model and identify whether the sliced ​​3D model has changed color;

[0069] If so, then the main frame 2 of the print head can be controlled to perform the color change operation separately, or the main frame 2 of the print head and the printing platform can be controlled to perform the color change operation. The color change operation is to replace the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment in the sliced ​​3D model with the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the current moment.

[0070] The following explanation uses the example of the printhead main frame 2 being able to move in the X and Y directions. Specifically, it describes how to control the printhead main frame 2 to perform a color-changing operation independently, or how to control the printhead main frame 2 and the printing platform to perform a color-changing operation, including:

[0071] The main frame of the printhead is moved upward by a first set distance, or the printing platform is moved downward by a first set distance, so that the main frame of the printhead is separated from the current printed part by a certain distance, and the consumable is pulled back by a second set distance, so that the consumable is ejected upward from the consumable lead-out hole 210 of the main frame of the printhead; then, the main frame of the printhead is moved to the vicinity of the recycling rack 1 by controlling the movement of the main frame of the printhead in the X and Y directions, and the positioning groove 35 and the protrusion 12 are at the same height by controlling the position of the main frame of the printhead or the printing platform in the Z direction;

[0072] According to the color state parameters of the previous moment, move the main frame 2 of the print head to the Y direction of the placement position of the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameters of the previous moment in the recycling rack 1, and align it with the engagement groove 13 of the replacement part 3 and the recycling rack 1.

[0073] The printhead main frame 2 is controlled to move a third set distance along the Y direction so that the recycling rack 1 presses against the replacement part 3, so that the replacement part 3 is in the front position in the printhead main frame 2;

[0074] The main frame 2 of the print head is controlled to move a fourth predetermined distance in the X direction and the target replacement part is selected; the target replacement part is the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color status parameter at the current moment.

[0075] Control the printhead main frame 2 to move forward along the Y direction and remove the target replacement part, so that the target replacement part is in the rear position in the printhead main frame 2;

[0076] Control the main frame 2 of the print head to move to the designated ejection point to over-extrude the target replacement part in order to clean the residue in the nozzle from the previous moment;

[0077] Control the main frame 2 of the print head to move to the coordinate point where printing was paused and resume printing.

[0078] The complete 3D printing process using a traditional printer is as follows:

[0079] 3D modeling involves first generating a 3D model corresponding to the file to be printed using modeling software, and then saving it as a 3D model binary file, such as an STL format.

[0080] Slicing involves processing 3D model binary files such as STL using slicing software to generate gcode files that can be recognized by printers. The gcode files can control the 3D printer to perform printing actions, such as controlling the movement of XYZ 3D coordinate points, extruder position coordinates, acceleration, speed and other parameters.

[0081] The printer completes the production printing work based on files such as gcode files.

[0082] This embodiment also provides a method for color-changing printing with a printer, including:

[0083] Step 101: Obtain the file to be printed.

[0084] Step 102: Determine the 3D model of the document to be printed.

[0085] Step 103: Color the 3D model to obtain the colored 3D model.

[0086] Step 104: Slice the colored 3D model to obtain individual slice 3D models.

[0087] Step 105: Print the sliced ​​3D model and identify whether the sliced ​​3D model has changed color.

[0088] Step 106: If so, control the main frame 2 of the print head to perform the color change operation separately, or control the main frame 2 of the print head and the printing platform to perform the color change operation; the color change operation is to replace the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment in the sliced ​​3D model with the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the current moment.

[0089] In practical applications, the MEC system does not change existing 3D printing methods. It only requires providing a color parameter during multi-color printing. When the color parameter changes, code will appear in the gcode file to implement the MEC system's color-changing operation (hereinafter referred to as the Change operation). The specific steps of the MEC method are as follows:

[0090] The process of creating 3D models of printable files and exporting them as binary files is consistent with existing mainstream 3D printing modeling methods.

[0091] Multi-color slicing is performed, and gcode is generated based on the model's color parameters. This gcode is consistent with standard gcode and can be used normally by commercially available printers. However, this gcode includes an initial gcode to determine color changes. When a statement indicating a color change is encountered, the code in the initial gcode to replace the color is automatically executed. In other words, any printer, after assembling the MEC system, only needs to perform the corresponding multi-color slicing to achieve multi-color printing.

[0092] The core of the MEC system is the replacement operation (color change operation), which enables material changing and color printing. The logic, code generation, and machine movement methods for the replacement operation are as follows:

[0093] First, determine whether to perform a replacement operation. Reasons for triggering a replacement operation include:

[0094] First, when printing in color, if the software detects a color change, a replacement operation is required.

[0095] For color 3D printing, before slicing the STL or other 3D model binary files, the model needs to be manually colored. Users can use various point, region, and interface drawing tools to color the model (the micro-code hierarchy assigns a corresponding parameter to each small facet of the 3D model, which records the model's color). After coloring, multi-color slicing is performed. When a change in color parameters is detected, the printer needs to perform a color change operation, generating code to tell the printer which color to replace (this code is directly interspersed in the printer's normal Gcode code to pass the color parameters).

[0096] Secondly, if the consumables are detected to be exhausted during normal printing, a replacement operation will be performed according to the user settings, generating a code such as A, which corresponds to different consumables with different color parameters.

[0097] After determining that a replacement operation is needed, a code will be generated to tell the printer which replacement part should be replaced. This code should be relatively simple, such as MEChang01, which can be interpreted as replacing with replacement part number 1.

[0098] Clearly, code like MEChang01 alone is insufficient for the machine to directly execute and complete the replacement operation. The actual execution code is generated by the software and placed within the initial G-code of the complete codebase. This initial G-code is used to perform the replacement action and is adapted to different printers. Because each replacement operation differs only in the pick-up and place-down positions (coordinates), the rest of the actions are the same. Therefore, the function of this G-code is illustrated below:

[0099] The printer operates based on the sliced ​​G-code code from the MEC system. After executing the statement that changes the color, the printer will perform the following operations in part of the initial G-code code:

[0100] 1) Control the printhead main frame 2 to move upward by a first set distance, or control the printing platform to move downward by a first set distance, and retract the consumables by a second set distance.

[0101] In practical applications, the main frame 2 of the print head moves upward a short distance (first set distance) or the printing platform moves downward a short distance (first set distance), and the consumable is pulled back a short distance (second set distance). This step is to prevent filament pulling and stabilize the material breakage in a temporary state.

[0102] 2) Move the main frame 2 of the print head to the Y direction of the placement position of the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment in the recycling rack 1, and align it with the engagement groove 13 of the replacement part 3 and the recycling rack 1.

[0103] In practical applications, the printhead main frame 2 is moved in the Y direction to the existing replacement part 3 of the recycling rack 1 according to the current color status parameters and aligned with the interlocking groove 13 of the replacement part 3 and the recycling rack 1.

[0104] 3) Control the printhead main frame 2 to move a third set distance along the Y direction so that the recycling rack 1 presses against the replacement part 3, so that the replacement part 3 is in the front position in the printhead main frame 2.

[0105] In practical applications, the printhead main frame 2 moves a small distance (the third set distance) in the Y direction to make the recycling rack 1 hold the recycling part against the magnetic attraction between the replacement part 3 and the printhead main frame 2, and to make the replacement part 3 in the front position in the printhead main frame 2.

[0106] 4) Control the main frame 2 of the print head to move a fourth set distance in the X direction and select the target replacement part; the target replacement part is the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color status parameter at the current moment.

[0107] In practical applications, the replacement part 3 is in the front position in the main frame 2 of the print head. The main frame 2 of the print head can move freely in the X direction and select the target replacement part, that is, move to the position of the replacement part 3 corresponding to the color parameter.

[0108] 5) Control the printhead main frame 2 to move forward along the Y direction and remove the target replacement part, so that the target replacement part is in the rear position in the printhead main frame 2.

[0109] In practical applications, the printhead main frame 2 has already selected the corresponding replacement part 3. At this time, it moves forward in the Y direction to overcome the magnetic attraction between the replacement part 3 and the recycling rack 1, thereby removing the replacement part 3 and placing the replacement part 3 in the rear position in the printhead main frame 2. At this time, the replacement part 3 and the printhead main frame 2 are relatively fixed.

[0110] 6) Control the main frame 2 of the print head to move to the designated discharge point to over-extrude the target replacement part in order to clean the residue in the nozzle from the previous moment.

[0111] In practical applications, the main frame 2 of the printhead moves to the designated ejection point to extrude the consumable. A strategy of over-extruding a small section of consumable is adopted to clean up the residue of another consumable in the nozzle.

[0112] After the over-extrusion cleaning is completed, the main frame 2 of the printhead will move to the nozzle wiping area and reciprocate to clean the waste residue on the nozzle through the brush in the nozzle wiping area.

[0113] 7) Control the main frame 2 of the print head to move to the coordinate point where printing was paused and resume printing.

[0114] In practical applications, after completing the above operations, quickly go to the coordinates of the reprint and resume printing. At this point, the color change operation has been completed.

[0115] As can be seen, the 3D printing color-changing device in this embodiment does not add any electronic devices compared to existing 3D printers, and does not require any complex control or communication structures. During operation, simply selecting the special slicing module and correctly assembling the 3D printing color-changing device onto the printer enables automatic material changing and multi-color printing. Furthermore, its structure is relatively simple, eliminating the need to replace the entire print head and preventing any loss of printing accuracy or quality after color changing. This reduces costs while ensuring printing effect and quality, facilitating widespread adoption.

[0116] This specification uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of the present invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the ideas of the present invention, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

Claims

1. A 3D printing color-changing device, characterized in that, The printer includes a recycling rack, a main printhead frame, and multiple replacement parts. The main printhead frame is movable in both the X and Y directions, and the recycling rack is mounted on the printer frame; alternatively, the main printhead frame is movable in the X direction, and the recycling rack is mounted on a printing platform movable in the Y direction. The multiple replacement parts are detachably mounted sequentially on the recycling rack along the X direction. The main printhead frame can remove the replacement parts from the recycling rack and place them back onto it. The replacement parts are used for filament extrusion. The recycling rack includes a main frame body... The main frame has a plurality of engagement slots arranged sequentially along the X direction on one side for accommodating the replacement part. Each engagement slot is provided with a first magnet. The main frame of the printhead is provided with a second magnet. The rear side of the replacement part is provided with a third magnet with the opposite polarity to the first magnet and a fourth magnet with the opposite polarity to the second magnet. The replacement part includes a replacement part main frame and an extrusion mechanism mounted on the replacement part main frame. The third magnet and the fourth magnet are arranged sequentially from top to bottom on the rear side of the replacement part main frame. The main frame of the printhead is provided with a drive mechanism for driving the extrusion mechanism.

2. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple protrusions are sequentially arranged along the X direction on one side of the main frame, and an engagement groove is formed between any two adjacent protrusions. Positioning grooves matching the protrusion structure are provided on both the left and right sides of the replacement main frame.

3. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extrusion mechanism includes a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, an extrusion main gear, an extrusion secondary gear, a secondary gear holder, and a driven wheel. The first rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame. The extrusion main gear and the driven wheel are sequentially fixedly sleeved on the first rotating shaft from back to front. The driving mechanism is used to drive the driven wheel to rotate. The secondary gear holder is mounted on the front side of the replacement part main frame. The second rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the secondary gear holder. The extrusion secondary gear is fixedly sleeved on the second rotating shaft and meshes with the extrusion main gear. The rear end of the first rotating shaft... The first annular groove is provided, and multiple first extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially in the first annular groove. The rear end of the second rotating shaft is provided with a second annular groove corresponding to the position of the first annular groove, and multiple second extrusion teeth are arranged circumferentially in the second annular groove. The upper and lower parts of the replacement part main frame are respectively provided with a consumable inlet hole and a consumable outlet hole. The printhead main frame is provided with a consumable lead-out hole that corresponds to the position of the consumable outlet hole. The consumable can enter between the first annular groove and the second annular groove through the consumable inlet hole and extend out through the consumable outlet hole and the consumable lead-out hole.

4. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extrusion mechanism also includes an adjusting screw and a spring. The upper end of the auxiliary gear frame is rotatably mounted on the main frame of the replacement part via a pin. The auxiliary gear frame is provided with a T-shaped hole, the axis of which is perpendicular to the axis of the pin. The T-shaped hole includes a first circular hole and a second circular hole. The inner diameter of the first circular hole is larger than the inner diameter of the second circular hole. The main frame of the replacement part is provided with a threaded hole on the side near the auxiliary gear frame. The second circular hole is located between the first circular hole and the threaded hole. The inner diameter of the second circular hole is larger than the outer diameter of the adjusting screw. The spring is disposed in the first circular hole and sleeved on the outside of the adjusting screw. The adjusting screw passes through the first circular hole and the second circular hole in sequence and is installed in the threaded hole.

5. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes an extrusion motor and a drive wheel. The extrusion motor is mounted on the main frame of the print head, and the drive wheel is fixedly mounted on the power output shaft of the extrusion motor. The drive wheel can mesh with the driven wheel.

6. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main frame of the printhead includes a base frame, a bottom plate, a top plate, a rear side plate, and a front side plate. The bottom plate is located at the rear end of the upper part of the base frame. The rear side plate and the front side plate are respectively located at the rear end and the front end of the upper part of the bottom plate. The top plate is located at the rear end of the upper part of the front side plate. The drive mechanism is located on the front side plate. The second magnet is located on the rear side plate.

7. The 3D printing color-changing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The rear side of the main frame of the replacement part is provided with a fastening groove, and the front side of the rear side plate is provided with a fastening block that matches the fastening groove structure; the upper and lower parts of the front end of the main frame of the replacement part are respectively provided with a first locking block and a second locking block; the lower left and right sides of the top plate are each provided with a first protrusion, and a first locking groove that matches the first locking block structure is formed between the two first protrusions; a first gap exists between the first protrusion and the front side plate for the first locking block to move in the X direction; the upper left and right sides of the bottom plate are each provided with a second protrusion, and a second locking groove that matches the second locking block structure is formed between the two second protrusions; a second gap exists between the second locking block and the front side plate for the second locking block to move in the X direction.

8. A 3D printing color-changing method based on the 3D printing color-changing device as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Get the file to be printed; Determine the three-dimensional model of the document to be printed; The three-dimensional model is colored to obtain a colored three-dimensional model. The colored 3D model is sliced ​​to obtain individual sliced ​​3D models. Print the sliced ​​3D model and identify whether the sliced ​​3D model has undergone color changes; If so, then the main frame of the print head can be controlled to perform a color-changing operation independently, or the main frame of the print head and the printing platform can be controlled to perform a color-changing operation; the color-changing operation is to replace the replacement part corresponding to the color state parameter of the previous moment in the slice 3D model with the replacement part corresponding to the color state parameter of the current moment.

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