Vortex type efficient energy-saving vacuum air pump for additive manufacturing

Abstract

The invention discloses a vortex type efficient energy-saving vacuum air pump for additive manufacturing, and relates to the technical field of vacuum air pumps, the vortex type efficient energy-saving vacuum air pump comprises a variable frequency motor, a rear cover, a centrifugal impeller, a shell core and a front cover; a shaft end cover of the variable frequency motor is connected with the rear cover, the rear cover is provided with an axial sealing piece, the shell core is connected between the front cover and the rear cover in a sealed mode, and a rotating shaft of the variable frequency motor penetrates through the axial sealing piece to be connected with the impeller to drive the impeller to rotate in the shell core. A first tuyere is formed in the center of the front cover; a second air opening is formed in the side wall of the shell core, the impeller swings air in a centrifugal mode when rotating, and the air flows to the second air opening from the first air opening; the first air opening is connected with a negative pressure terminal, a negative pressure control mechanism is arranged between the first air opening and the negative pressure terminal, and continuous, interval or stepless adjustment air exhaust is achieved through continuous rotation of the variable frequency motor in cooperation with control of the negative pressure control mechanism. The device has the characteristics of high sealing performance, low heating value, low noise and high energy efficiency, and can stably work for a long time and reduce energy consumption in a metal additive manufacturing environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vacuum pump technology, and in particular to a vortex-type high-efficiency and energy-saving vacuum pump for additive manufacturing. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of metal additive manufacturing (3D printing) equipment, the requirements for air purification and dust control in the production process are becoming increasingly stringent. Vacuum pumps, as crucial devices for maintaining negative pressure and extracting gas and dust particles, play a key role in maintaining the stability of the printing cavity and protecting the precision components of the equipment. Currently, commonly used industrial vacuum pumps are mostly high-pressure blowers or dry screw pumps, which reduce dust diffusion and improve printing accuracy by creating negative pressure or a micro-vacuum inside the additive manufacturing equipment.

[0003] Currently, most high-pressure blowers used in metal additive manufacturing utilize vortex-type flow channels to draw in gas and create a vacuum environment, requiring a leakage rate of no more than 0.1 kPa after standing at a static pressure of 30 kPa for 30 minutes. To meet this requirement, vacuum pumps must possess excellent sealing performance, low energy consumption, and stable temperature rise control. However, traditional vacuum pumps still have significant shortcomings in structural design and manufacturing precision. First, high-pressure blowers experience significant gas leakage at high speeds, making it difficult to maintain negative pressure and increasing energy consumption. Second, the flow channel design within the vortex structure is not refined enough, resulting in high gas flow resistance and internal friction losses, easily generating excessive heat during operation and shortening the lifespan of components. Third, existing vacuum pumps generally use traditional rubber rings or single-stage mechanical seals for sealing the shaft end and various mating surfaces, which are difficult to withstand the combined effects of metal powder and high-temperature environments over long periods. Finally, their noise control and vibration suppression capabilities are weak, making it difficult for the equipment to maintain stability during long printing tasks.

[0004] In addition, existing vacuum pumps focus on simple pumping speed and vacuum level indicators, lacking system optimization design for energy saving and heat dissipation. For example, conventional high-pressure blowers generate a lot of heat during operation, requiring additional cooling units, which increases the complexity of the system and maintenance costs. At the same time, some high-pressure blower products experience aging or deformation of seals due to thermal expansion after long-term operation, which further increases leakage, causing instability in the vacuum environment and affecting the forming quality of metal additive manufacturing parts.

[0005] In summary, the existing technology has at least the following technical problems: Existing vacuum pumps suffer from technical problems such as unreasonable vortex flow channel and internal structure design, high operating energy consumption, and inability to operate with high stability for extended periods in metal additive manufacturing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a vortex-type high-efficiency and energy-saving vacuum pump for additive manufacturing, so as to solve the technical problems of existing vacuum pumps, such as unreasonable design of vortex flow channel and internal structure, high operating energy consumption, and inability to operate with high stability for a long time in metal additive manufacturing.

[0007] The preferred technical solutions among the many technical solutions provided by this invention can produce a variety of technical effects, which are described in detail below.

[0008] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: This invention provides a vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump for additive manufacturing, comprising a variable frequency motor, a rear cover, a centrifugal impeller, a housing, and a front cover; the shaft end cover of the variable frequency motor is connected to the rear cover, an axial seal is installed at the center of the rear cover, the end face of the rear cover is connected to and seals one side of the housing, the shaft of the variable frequency motor passes through the axial seal and is connected to the impeller, for driving the impeller to rotate within the housing; the front cover is sealed to the other side of the housing, and a first air inlet is provided at the center of the front cover, the first air inlet communicating from the center of the impeller with the radial cavity of the impeller. The radial cavity of the impeller is connected to the internal cavity of the shell core; a second air inlet is provided on the side wall of the shell core located between the front cover and the rear cover; the variable frequency motor starts and drives the impeller to agitate the air in the shell core, and the impeller swings the air in a centrifugal manner, causing the air to flow along the direction from the first air inlet to the second air inlet; the first air inlet is connected to a negative pressure terminal to be used; a negative pressure control mechanism is provided between the first air inlet and the negative pressure terminal, and under the continuous rotation of the variable frequency motor, the negative pressure control mechanism controls the negative pressure terminal to continuously, intermittently, and steplessly adjust the negative pressure, while the first air inlet continuously intakes air.

[0009] In one embodiment, the negative pressure terminal is used for adsorbing laser printing fumes and protecting the laser head during additive manufacturing.

[0010] In one embodiment, the negative pressure control mechanism includes a first conical tube, a multi-pass conical tube, and a multi-valve core control unit; one end of the first conical tube is connected to the negative pressure terminal, and the other end is connected to the first air inlet of the multi-pass conical tube, and the air outlet of the multi-pass conical tube is connected to the first air outlet; a second air inlet branch is provided on the tube wall of the multi-pass conical tube, and the second air inlet branch has an air inlet communicating with the external space; the first valve core of the multi-valve core control unit is arranged in the first conical tube, and the second valve core is arranged in the second air inlet branch; under continuous air intake at the first air outlet, the multi-valve core control unit controls the negative pressure terminal to continuously, intermittently, and steplessly adjust the negative pressure by either opening the first conical tube with the first valve core and closing the second air inlet branch with the second valve core, or closing the first conical tube with the first valve core and opening the second air inlet branch with the second valve core.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first conical tube has a conical inner cavity, with the small end of the conical inner cavity facing the negative pressure terminal and the large end facing the multi-port conical tube; the shape of the first valve core corresponds to and matches the conical inner cavity of the first conical tube, and when engaged, the peripheral wall of the first valve core forms a seal with the cavity wall of the conical inner cavity of the first conical tube.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second air inlet branch pipe is provided with a conical air cavity, the small end of the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe facing the air inlet and the large end facing the multi-pass conical cavity pipe; the shape of the second valve core corresponds to and matches the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe, and when combined, the peripheral wall of the second valve core and the cavity wall of the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe form a seal.

[0013] In one embodiment, the multi-pass conical tube includes a main pipe and a second air inlet branch pipe, the second air inlet branch pipe being connected to the main pipe; the two ends of the main pipe are the first air inlet end and the air outlet end, respectively.

[0014] In one embodiment, the multi-valve core control unit includes an active magnetic controller, an adsorption block, multiple drive rods, a first guide rod, a second guide rod, a first guide frame, a second guide frame, a first valve core, and a second valve core. The magnetic controller is disposed on the outer wall of the main pipe and slides along the length of the main pipe. The first guide frame is disposed at the first air inlet end inside the main pipe. One end of the first guide rod slides through the center of the first guide frame and is hinged to the large end of the first valve core, and the other end is hinged to one of the drive rods. The second guide frame is disposed inside the second air inlet branch pipe. One end of the second guide frame slides through the center of the second guide frame and is hinged to the large end of the second valve core, and the other end is hinged to one of the drive rods. The adsorption block is slidably disposed on the inner wall of the main pipe and slides along the length of the main pipe under the magnetic attraction drive of the magnetic controller. The multiple drive rods are all arranged inside the main pipe and are all hinged to the adsorption block.

[0015] In one embodiment, the multi-valve core control unit further includes a drive motor and a linear drive module, which are disposed outside the main pipe. The slider of the linear drive module is connected to the magnetic controller, and the drive motor drives the magnetic controller to slide along the length direction of the main pipe through the linear drive module, thereby driving the adsorption block to drive the first valve core and the second valve core, and realizing the coordinated opening and closing control of the first conical cavity pipe and the second air inlet branch pipe.

[0016] In one embodiment, the second air inlet branch pipe is provided with multiple branches, and the corresponding second valve core, second guide frame, second guide rod and drive rod are also increased accordingly, wherein the increased second valve core, second guide rod and drive rod are all driven by the adsorption block.

[0017] In one embodiment, the impeller is provided with a plurality of radial cavities evenly spaced along the circumference; each radial cavity is provided with an air inlet and an open port at both ends of the impeller in the radial direction, the air inlet being connected to the first air outlet and the open port being connected to the cavity inside the shell core.

[0018] The vortex-type high-efficiency and energy-saving vacuum pump of the present invention, through system optimization in structure and power control, has the following significant advantages over the prior art: (1) High sealing performance and long-term stability: The present invention sets an axial seal in the center of the rear cover, which, together with the shell core, front cover and rear cover, forms a multi-seal structure, effectively reducing gas leakage at the shaft end and joint surface, significantly improving vacuum retention capacity, enabling it to achieve long-term stable operation under static pressure of at least 30 kPa in metal additive manufacturing, and meeting the stringent printing environment requirements.

[0019] (2) Low energy consumption and energy-saving operation: The centrifugal impeller is driven by a variable frequency motor, and the adjustable speed control is used to match the vacuum extraction with the actual working conditions, avoiding ineffective energy consumption at high speed. By optimizing the design of the vortex flow channel and the radial cavity connection method, the flow resistance and energy loss are reduced, and efficient energy-saving operation is achieved.

[0020] (3) Low heat generation and long service life; the matching design of the shell core, impeller and air outlet allows air to enter through the first air outlet in the center of the front cover. The fluid enters the center of the impeller and is thrown out to the shell core by centrifugal force along the radial cavity. The fluid forms a vortex along the shell core and enters the second air outlet connected to the side wall of the shell core in a tangential direction, making the air (fluid) flow path smoother, reducing internal friction and vortex, and reducing the heat generation during operation; at the same time, it can avoid damage to the seals and mechanical parts by high temperature, and extend the service life and maintenance cycle of the whole machine.

[0021] (4) Low noise and stable operation; the combination of centrifugal impeller with front cover, shell core and rear cover to form a sealed structure improves airflow balance, which helps to reduce operating vibration and noise, and is beneficial for use in noise-sensitive environments such as additive manufacturing workshops, thus improving working comfort.

[0022] (5) Adjustable negative pressure and multi-condition adaptation; the present invention sets a negative pressure control mechanism between the first air outlet and the negative pressure terminal. Through the variable frequency motor drive and the negative pressure control mechanism to control the opening and closing of the pipeline flow channel, the variable frequency motor and impeller can be continuously operated, but the negative pressure terminal can still continuously or intermittently pump air, avoiding frequent start-stop or acceleration and deceleration of the variable frequency motor and impeller, thereby accurately controlling the negative pressure output, improving the compatibility and flexibility of the equipment with different additive manufacturing processes, and reducing energy consumption, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0023] In summary, this invention not only effectively solves the technical problems of existing vacuum pumps, such as unreasonable design of vortex flow channels and internal structures, high operating energy consumption, and difficulty in long-term high-stability operation in metal additive manufacturing, but also achieves comprehensive improvements in energy efficiency, sealing performance, noise control, and lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present invention, 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 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the rotary high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump, negative pressure control mechanism and negative pressure terminal of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a side view of the shell core structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a side view of the impeller structure of the present invention.

[0026] The reference numerals in the attached figures are as follows: 1. Variable frequency motor; 2. Rear cover; 21. Axial seal; 3. Impeller; 31. Radial cavity; 311. Air inlet; 312. Open port; 4. Shell core; 41. Air outlet duct; 411. Second air outlet; 42. Sealing groove; 5. Front cover; 51. First air vent; 6. Negative pressure control mechanism; 7. First conical cavity tube; 71. Conical inner cavity; 8. Multi-port conical duct; 81. Main pipe; 811. First air inlet; 812. Air outlet; 82. Second air inlet branch pipe; 821. Conical air cavity; 822. Air inlet; 9. Multi-valve core control unit; 91. Magnet controller; 92. Adsorption block; 921. Drive rod; 93. First valve core; 931. First guide rod; 932. First guide frame; 94. Second valve core; 941. Second guide rod; 942. Second guide frame; 95. Drive motor; 96. Linear drive module; 10. Negative pressure terminal. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] A specific embodiment provides a vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump for additive manufacturing, including a variable frequency motor, a rear cover, a centrifugal impeller, a shell core, and a front cover; the shaft end cover of the variable frequency motor is connected to the rear cover, the rear cover is equipped with an axial seal, the shell core is sealed between the front cover and the rear cover, the rotating shaft of the variable frequency motor passes through the axial seal and is connected to the impeller to drive the impeller to rotate inside the shell core; a first air inlet is provided at the center of the front cover; a second air inlet is provided on the side wall of the shell core, and when the impeller rotates, it centrifugally swirls the air, causing the air to flow from the first air inlet to the second air inlet; The first air outlet connects to the negative pressure terminal, and a negative pressure control mechanism is set between the first air outlet and the negative pressure terminal. The continuous rotation of the variable frequency motor, combined with the control of the negative pressure control mechanism, enables continuous, intermittent, or stepless adjustment of air extraction. It features high sealing performance, low heat generation, low noise, and high energy efficiency, enabling long-term stable operation and reduced energy consumption in metal additive manufacturing environments. It effectively solves the technical problems of existing vacuum pumps, such as unreasonable vortex flow channel and internal structure design, high operating energy consumption, and inability to operate with high stability for extended periods in metal additive manufacturing.

[0029] The first implementation of a vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump, for example Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the device includes a variable frequency motor 1, a rear cover 2, a centrifugal impeller 3, a housing 4, and a front cover 5. The shaft end cover of the variable frequency motor 1 is connected to the rear cover 2. An axial seal 21 is installed at the center of the rear cover 2. The end face of the rear cover 2 connects to and seals one side of the housing 4. The shaft of the variable frequency motor 1 passes through the axial seal 21 and connects to the impeller 3 to drive the impeller 3 to rotate inside the housing 4. The front cover 5 is sealed to the other side of the housing 4. A first air vent 51 is provided at the center of the front cover 5. The first air vent 51 connects to the radial cavity 31 of the impeller 3 from the center of the impeller 3. The radial cavity 31 of the impeller 3 connects to the housing 4. The cavity is connected; the shell core 4 is provided with a second air vent 411 on the side wall between the front cover 5 and the rear cover 2; the variable frequency motor 1 starts and drives the impeller 3 to stir the air in the shell core 4. The impeller 3 swings the air in a centrifugal manner, so that the air flows along the direction from the first air vent 51 to the second air vent 411; the first air vent 51 is connected to the negative pressure terminal 10 to be used; a negative pressure control mechanism 6 is provided between the first air vent 51 and the negative pressure terminal 10. Under the continuous rotation of the variable frequency motor 1, the negative pressure control mechanism 6 controls the negative pressure terminal 10 to continuously, intermittently and steplessly adjust the negative pressure, and the first air vent 51 continuously intakes air.

[0030] Among them, a sealing groove 42 is provided on the end face where the shell core 4 connects with the front cover 5 and the rear cover 2. The sealing groove 42 is used to install a sealing ring, so that the connection between the front cover 5 and the shell core 4, and the connection between the shell core 4 and the rear cover 2 form a sealed connection.

[0031] Specifically, such as Figure 3As shown, an air outlet 41 is provided on the side wall of the shell core 4 located between the front cover 5 and the rear cover 2. The second air outlet 411 is located at the end of the air outlet 41, and the axis of the air outlet 41 intersects the side wall of the shell core 4 in a tangential manner. This is used to improve the smoothness of the fluid being thrown into the air outlet 41 inside the shell core 4, reduce the heat, noise and vibration generated by the fluid rubbing against the inner wall of the shell core 4, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump and improving the continuous operation stability and energy efficiency of the vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump.

[0032] Since the shell core 4 is provided with an air outlet 41 on the side wall between the front cover 5 and the rear cover 2, and the second air outlet 411 is located at the end of the air outlet 41, and the axis of the air outlet 41 is tangential to and intersects with the side wall of the shell core 4; in actual operation, when the variable frequency motor 1 drives the impeller 3 to rotate at high speed, the air is centrifugally attracted and thrown into the internal cavity of the shell core 4, and flows circumferentially along the internal cavity of the shell core 4 and finally enters the air outlet 41 in a tangential direction, thus forming a stable, low eddy fluid path.

[0033] When applied, this structure can effectively reduce the friction and impact of fluid on the inner wall of the shell core 4, reduce air flow loss and local turbulence, reduce heat generation, noise and vibration, significantly improve the stability and overall energy efficiency of the vacuum pump during continuous operation, and solve the problem of unstable operation of existing vacuum pumps in metal additive manufacturing due to excessive heat, vibration and flow resistance.

[0034] In addition, to further reduce heat generation, noise and vibration, and improve the smoothness of the flow channel, a wear-resistant coating is provided on the inner wall of the air outlet duct 41 or the inner wall of the shell core 4 to further suppress heat generation, high-frequency noise and vibration.

[0035] This technical solution utilizes a vortex-type high-efficiency and energy-saving vacuum pump. Through system optimization in structure, fluid, and power control, it solves the technical problems of existing vacuum pumps, such as unreasonable vortex flow channel and internal structure design, high operating energy consumption, and inability to operate stably for extended periods in metal additive manufacturing. It has several technical advantages: high sealing performance and long-term stability. The invention features an axial seal 21 at the center of the rear cover 2, which, together with the shell core 4, front cover 5, and rear cover 2, forms a multi-seal structure. This effectively reduces gas leakage at the shaft end and mating surface, significantly improving vacuum retention capacity. This enables the pump to operate stably for extended periods under a static pressure of at least 30 kPa in metal additive manufacturing, meeting the stringent requirements of the printing environment.

[0036] Low energy consumption and energy-saving operation: The centrifugal impeller 3 is driven by a variable frequency motor 1, and the adjustable speed control is used to match the vacuum extraction with the actual working conditions, avoiding ineffective energy consumption at high speed. By optimizing the design of the vortex flow channel and the connection method of the radial cavity 31, the flow resistance and energy loss are reduced, achieving efficient and energy-saving operation.

[0037] Low heat generation and long lifespan; the matching design of the shell core 4, impeller 3 and air outlet allows air to enter through the first air outlet 51 at the center of the front cover 5. The fluid enters the center of the impeller 3 and is thrown out along the radial cavity 31 by centrifugal force to the shell core 4. The fluid forms a vortex along the shell core 4 and enters the air outlet duct 41 which is tangentially connected to the side wall of the shell core 4, making the air (fluid) flow path smoother, reducing internal friction and vortex, and reducing the heat generation during operation; at the same time, it can avoid damage to the seals and mechanical parts by high temperature, and extend the life of the whole machine and the maintenance cycle.

[0038] Low noise and smooth operation; the combination of the centrifugal impeller 3 with the front cover 5, shell core 4 and rear cover 2 to form a sealed structure improves airflow balance, helps reduce operating vibration and noise, and is suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments such as additive manufacturing workshops, improving working comfort.

[0039] Adjustable negative pressure and adaptability to multiple working conditions: This invention sets up a negative pressure control mechanism 6 between the first air outlet 51 and the negative pressure terminal 10. Driven by the variable frequency motor 1 and controlled by the negative pressure control mechanism 6 to open and close the pipeline flow channel, the variable frequency motor 1 and impeller 3 can be continuously operated, but the negative pressure terminal 10 can still continuously or intermittently pump air, avoiding frequent start-stop or acceleration / deceleration of the variable frequency motor 1 and impeller 3, thereby accurately controlling the negative pressure output, improving the compatibility and flexibility of the equipment with different additive manufacturing processes, and reducing energy consumption, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0040] In summary, this invention not only effectively solves the technical problems of existing vacuum pumps, such as unreasonable design of vortex flow channels and internal structures, high operating energy consumption, and difficulty in long-term high-stability operation in metal additive manufacturing, but also achieves comprehensive improvements in energy efficiency, sealing performance, noise control, and lifespan.

[0041] As one alternative implementation method: Regarding the specific application of the aforementioned negative pressure terminal 10, the negative pressure terminal 10 is used for adsorbing laser printing fumes and protecting the laser head in additive manufacturing.

[0042] In application, the negative pressure terminal 10 is connected to the airflow path of the first air outlet 51. It forms a stable negative pressure suction channel to adsorb the fumes generated during the high-temperature melting process of laser printing, thereby protecting the laser head. When the variable frequency motor 1 drives the impeller 3, the negative pressure control mechanism 6 can select continuous, intermittent, or stepless adjustment of the negative pressure according to process requirements. It moves with the printing laser head and forms controllable suction to promptly extract and collect powder, fumes, or microparticles. This significantly improves the air cleanliness of the laser print head and printing work area in additive manufacturing, effectively preventing residues from affecting the performance of production equipment and the quality of workpieces. It also solves the problems of unstable suction or inability to continuously clean for extended periods using traditional vacuum pumps.

[0043] In addition, a replaceable filter unit, metal dust separator or dust sensor module is added between the negative pressure terminal 10 and the first air outlet 51 to realize online monitoring of dust concentration, assist in automatic adjustment of suction power or link with the equipment control system, thereby improving the system's intelligence and safety.

[0044] Regarding the specific flow channel structure of the impeller 3 and the fluid path of the vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump, this embodiment is, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, multiple radial cavities 31 are evenly spaced along the circumference inside the impeller 3; each radial cavity 31 has an air inlet 311 and an open port 312 at both ends of the radial direction of the impeller 3, the air inlet 311 is connected to the first air outlet 51, and the open port 312 is connected to the cavity inside the shell core 4.

[0045] When the variable frequency motor 1 starts, air enters the impeller 3 from the first air inlet 51, passes through multiple radial cavities 31, and is thrown from the center of the circumference to the outer diameter of the circumference by centrifugal force into the internal cavity of the shell core 4, and is then discharged through the air outlet 41 and the second air inlet 411, forming an efficient, continuous and uniform vortex fluid passage.

[0046] When applied, this technical structure can significantly reduce flow resistance and energy loss, enhance pumping or negative pressure efficiency, reduce pulsating pressure caused by local overheating and uneven airflow, and solve the problems of unstable flow and high energy consumption caused by the traditional impeller with a single channel.

[0047] The radial cavity 31 can be arc-shaped, airfoil-shaped, or have a variable cross-section to optimize the airflow acceleration effect. An adjustable guide vane or temperature control device can also be installed between the impeller 3 and the shell core 4 to achieve dynamic optimization and heat dissipation control under different operating conditions.

[0048] A second implementation of a vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump, for example Figure 2 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment is that the negative pressure control mechanism 6 includes a first conical tube 7, a multi-pass conical tube 8, and a multi-valve core control unit 9; one end of the first conical tube 7 is connected to the negative pressure terminal 10, and the other end is connected to the first air inlet 811 of the multi-pass conical tube 8, and the air outlet 812 of the multi-pass conical tube 8 is connected to the first air outlet 51; a second air inlet branch pipe 82 is provided on the pipe wall of the multi-pass conical tube 8, and the second air inlet branch pipe 82 is provided with an air inlet 822 communicating with the external space; The first valve core 93 of the multi-valve core control unit 9 is arranged in the first conical cavity tube 7 and the second valve core 94 is arranged in the second air inlet branch pipe 82. Under the continuous air intake of the first air outlet 51, the multi-valve core control unit 9 controls the negative pressure terminal 10 to continuously, intermittently and steplessly adjust the negative pressure by either opening the first conical cavity tube 7 with the first valve core 93 and closing the second air inlet branch pipe 82 with the second valve core 94, or closing the first conical cavity tube 7 with the first valve core 93 and opening the second air inlet branch pipe 82 with the second valve core 94.

[0049] In application, the negative pressure control mechanism 6 dynamically adjusts the negative pressure terminal 10 through the first conical cavity pipe 7, the multi-pass conical cavity pipe 8, and the multi-valve core control unit 9. When the first valve core 93 opens the first conical cavity pipe 7 and the second valve core 94 closes the second air inlet branch pipe 82, the negative pressure terminal 10 continuously draws air. The opening degree of the first valve core 93 and the second valve core 94 is controlled in conjunction with the suction force required by the negative pressure terminal 10 to prevent a reduction in the air intake of the impeller 3 due to a decrease in the opening degree of the first valve core 93, thus preventing overload damage to the variable frequency motor 1 or increased energy consumption. When the first valve core 93 closes the first conical cavity pipe 7 and the second valve core 94 opens the second air inlet branch pipe 82, the negative pressure terminal 10 pauses suction or applies negative pressure. However, since the variable frequency motor 1 does not stop, the air intake demand of the impeller 3 is met by the second air inlet branch pipe 82, preventing overload of the variable frequency motor 1.

[0050] In practical applications, this structure can automatically switch between pumping and replenishing states according to the amount of dust and airflow requirements in the metal additive manufacturing process, maintaining stable vacuum, reducing energy consumption and avoiding overheating of the pump body, thus solving the problems of high energy consumption and large negative pressure fluctuations in existing vacuum pumps under a single negative pressure mode.

[0051] In addition, the multi-valve core control unit 9 is linked with the equipment control system to realize intelligent suction or negative pressure regulation; and pressure sensors, flow sensors and temperature sensors are added in the first conical cavity tube 7, the multi-pass conical cavity tube 8 or the shell core 4 to provide real-time feedback on the internal status of the vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump and adaptively adjust the valve core opening.

[0052] Regarding the internal structure of the aforementioned first conical cavity tube 7, this embodiment, for example... Figure 2 As shown, the first conical tube 7 is provided with a conical inner cavity 71. The small end of the conical inner cavity 71 of the first conical tube 7 faces the negative pressure terminal 10, and the large end faces the multi-pass conical tube 8. The shape of the first valve core 93 corresponds to and matches the conical inner cavity 71 of the first conical tube 7, and when they are engaged, the peripheral wall of the first valve core 93 and the cavity wall of the conical inner cavity 71 of the first conical tube 7 form a seal.

[0053] When operating under suction or negative pressure, the gas enters at high speed through the small end, forming a contraction jet effect, and then diffuses into the multi-pass conical tube 8 through the large end, reducing pressure loss and improving suction efficiency. This structure can effectively reduce airflow turbulence and leakage, reduce energy consumption and heat accumulation, and extend the life of the seals, thereby solving the problems of high internal friction and serious air leakage in traditional straight-tube connecting pipes.

[0054] In addition, a wear-resistant coating or a microchannel texture is added to the inner wall of the conical cavity 71 to reduce friction.

[0055] Regarding the structure of the aforementioned multi-pass tapered tube 8, this embodiment is, for example... Figure 2As shown, the multi-pass conical tube 8 is provided with a main pipe 81 and a second air inlet branch pipe 82, the second air inlet branch pipe 82 being connected to the main pipe 81; the two ends of the main pipe 81 are a first air inlet end 811 and an air outlet end 812, respectively.

[0056] Regarding the internal structure of the second air inlet branch pipe 82, a conical air cavity 821 is provided inside the second air inlet branch pipe 82. The small end of the conical air cavity 821 of the second air inlet branch pipe 82 faces the air inlet 822, and the large end faces the multi-pass conical cavity pipe 8. The shape of the second valve core 94 corresponds to and matches the conical air cavity 821 of the second air inlet branch pipe 82, and when they are engaged, the peripheral wall of the second valve core 94 and the cavity wall of the conical air cavity 821 of the second air inlet branch pipe 82 form a seal.

[0057] During suction or negative pressure operation, the second air inlet branch pipe 82 is controlled by the second valve core 94, allowing air to be supplied from the external space or closing the air supply path, thus enabling rapid adjustment of the suction force of the vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump to the negative pressure terminal 10. This structure significantly improves the negative pressure response speed and stability, reduces pump energy consumption and vibration, thereby solving the problems of delayed air supply or unstable negative pressure in traditional pumps.

[0058] A silencer and a guide vane can also be added to the second air inlet branch pipe 82 to improve the noise reduction effect and the uniformity of airflow.

[0059] Regarding the specific structure of the aforementioned multi-valve core control unit 9, this embodiment is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the multi-valve core control unit 9 includes an active magnetic controller 91, an adsorption block 92, multiple drive rods 921, a first guide rod 931, a second guide rod 941, a first guide frame 932, a second guide frame 942, a first valve core 93, and a second valve core 94. The magnetic controller 91 is mounted on the outer wall of the main pipe 81 and slides along the length of the main pipe 81. The first guide frame 932 is located at the first air inlet end 811 inside the main pipe 81. One end of the first guide rod 931 slides through the center of the first guide frame 932 and connects with the first valve core 93. The large end of the valve core 94 is hinged, and the other end is hinged to one of the drive rods 921; the second guide frame 942 is located inside the second air inlet branch pipe 82; one end of the second guide frame 942 slides through the center of the second guide frame 942 and is hinged to the large end of the second valve core 94, and the other end is hinged to one of the drive rods 921; the adsorption block 92 is slidably disposed on the inner wall of the main pipe 81 and slides along the length direction of the main pipe 81 under the magnetic attraction drive of the magnetic controller 91; multiple drive rods 921 are arranged inside the main pipe 81 and are all hinged to the adsorption block 92.

[0060] Specifically, the power structure for the sliding of the multi-valve core control unit 9 and the magnetic controller 91 includes a drive motor 95 and a linear drive module 96, which are located outside the main pipe 81. The slider of the linear drive module 96 is connected to the magnetic controller 91. The drive motor 95 drives the magnetic controller 91 to slide along the length of the main pipe 81 through the linear drive module 96, thereby driving the adsorption block 92 to drive the first valve core 93 and the second valve core 94, and realizing the linkage opening and closing control of the first cone cavity pipe 7 and the second air inlet branch pipe 82.

[0061] The drive motor 95 can be either a servo motor or a stepper motor.

[0062] In practical operation, the drive motor 95 drives the linear drive module 96 slider to push the magnetic controller 91 to slide along the length of the main pipe 81, thereby driving the adsorption block 92 and multiple drive rods 921 to move in a coordinated manner, realizing the synchronous action of the first valve core 93 and the second valve core 94. This allows the negative pressure terminal 10 to form a continuous, intermittent, steplessly adjustable negative pressure achieved by the mixed suction of the first conical cavity pipe 7 and the second air inlet branch pipe 82. This structure allows for precise control of the negative pressure output during application, reducing energy consumption and minimizing the impact of frequent starts on the pump body, thus solving the problem of traditional vacuum pumps that can only be adjusted by a single valve and have a slow response.

[0063] Servo motor control is preferred, and more precise valve core displacement control is achieved through feedback from coded sensors on the servo motor.

[0064] The third embodiment of the vortex-type high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump differs from the second embodiment in that the second air inlet branch pipe 82 is provided with multiple branches, and the corresponding second valve core 94, second guide frame 942, second guide rod 941, and drive rod 921 are also increased accordingly. The added second valve core 94, second guide rod 941, and drive rod 921 are all driven by the adsorption block 92.

[0065] In practical applications, multiple second air inlet branch pipes 82 enable parallel control of multiple airflow paths, improving the ability to perform high-flow suction or multi-area segmented air replenishment. This allows the impeller 3 and variable frequency motor 1 of the vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump to operate continuously and stably under complex working conditions. This structure allows for multi-channel redundant suction or negative pressure in application, improving the reliability of the entire system. It solves the technical problems of traditional single-channel pumps being prone to overload or large negative pressure fluctuations under high loads, making the vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum pump more durable in additive manufacturing scenarios.

[0066] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described.

Claims

1. A vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump for additive manufacturing, characterized in that it comprises a variable frequency motor, a rear cover, a centrifugal impeller, a shell core and a front cover. The shaft end cover of the variable frequency motor is connected with the rear cover, the rear cover is centrally provided with an axial seal, the end surface of the rear cover is connected with and seals one side of the shell core, the rotating shaft of the variable frequency motor penetrates through the axial seal and is connected with the impeller for driving the impeller to rotate in the shell core. The front cover is sealingly connected to the other side of the shell core, the front cover is centrally provided with a first air port, the first air port communicates with the radial cavity of the impeller from the center of the impeller, and the radial cavity of the impeller communicates with the internal cavity of the shell core. The shell core is provided with a second air port on the side wall between the front cover and the rear cover. The variable frequency motor drives the impeller to stir air in the shell core, and the impeller centrifugally flings air to flow in the direction from the first air port to the second air port. The first air port is connected with a negative pressure terminal to be used. A negative pressure control mechanism is arranged between the first air port and the negative pressure terminal, under the continuous rotation of the variable frequency motor, the negative pressure control mechanism controls the negative pressure terminal to continuously, intermittently or steplessly adjust the negative pressure, and the first air port continuously admits air.

2. The vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the negative pressure terminal is used for laser printing smoke adsorption and laser head protection in additive manufacturing.

3. The vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the negative pressure control mechanism comprises a first conical cavity pipe, a multi-pass conical cavity pipe and a multi-valve core joint control unit. One end of the first conical cavity pipe is connected with the negative pressure terminal, the other end is connected with the first air inlet end of the multi-pass conical cavity pipe, and the air outlet end of the multi-pass conical cavity pipe is connected with the first air port. The multi-pass conical cavity pipe is provided with a second air inlet branch pipe on the pipe wall, and the second air inlet branch pipe is provided with an air inlet opening communicating with the external space. The first valve core of the multi-valve core joint control unit is arranged in the first conical cavity pipe, and the second valve core is arranged in the second air inlet branch pipe. Under the continuous air admission of the first air port, the multi-valve core joint control unit controls the negative pressure terminal to continuously, intermittently or steplessly adjust the negative pressure in the mode that the first valve core opens the first conical cavity pipe, the second valve core closes the second air inlet branch pipe, or the first valve core closes the first conical cavity pipe, and the second valve core opens the second air inlet branch pipe.

4. The vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 3, characterized in that the first conical cavity pipe is provided with a conical inner cavity, the small end of the conical inner cavity of the first conical cavity pipe faces the negative pressure terminal, and the large end faces the multi-pass conical cavity pipe. The shape of the first valve core corresponds to and matches the conical inner cavity of the first conical cavity pipe, and when combined, the peripheral wall of the first valve core and the cavity wall of the conical inner cavity of the first conical cavity pipe form a seal.

5. The vortex high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 3, characterized in that ​ ​ ​ ​ The second air inlet branch pipe is provided with a conical air cavity, the small end of the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe is directed to the air inlet, and the large end is directed to the multi-pass conical cavity pipe; The shape of the second valve core corresponds to the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe, and the peripheral wall of the second valve core forms a seal with the cavity wall of the conical air cavity of the second air inlet branch pipe when combined.

6. The scroll high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 5, wherein The multi-pass conical cavity pipe is provided with a main pipe and the second air inlet branch pipe, and the second air inlet branch pipe is communicated with the main pipe; and the two ends of the main pipe are respectively the first air inlet end and the air outlet end.

7. The scroll high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 6, wherein The multi-valve core joint control unit comprises a main driven magnetic controller, an adsorption block, a plurality of driving rods, a first guide rod, a second guide rod, a first guide frame, a second guide frame, the first valve core and the second valve core; The magnetic controller is arranged on the outer wall of the main pipe and slides along the length direction of the main pipe; The first guide frame is arranged at the first air inlet end in the main pipe; one end of the first guide rod slides through the center of the first guide frame and is hingedly connected with the large end of the first valve core, and the other end is hingedly connected with one of the driving rods; The second guide frame is arranged in the second air inlet branch pipe; one end of the second guide frame slides through the center of the second guide frame and is hingedly connected with the large end of the second valve core, and the other end is hingedly connected with one of the driving rods; The adsorption block is arranged on the inner wall of the main pipe and slides under the magnetic attraction drive of the magnetic controller along the length direction of the main pipe; The plurality of driving rods are arranged in the main pipe and are hingedly connected with the adsorption block.

8. The scroll high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 7, wherein The multi-valve core joint control unit further comprises a driving motor and a linear drive module, and the driving motor and the linear drive module are arranged outside the main pipe; The slider of the linear drive module is connected with the magnetic controller, the driving motor drives the magnetic controller to slide along the length direction of the main pipe through the linear drive module, drives the adsorption block to drive the first valve core and the second valve core, and realizes the linkage opening and closing control of the first conical cavity pipe and the second air inlet branch pipe.

9. The scroll high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 7, wherein The second air inlet branch pipe is provided with a plurality of corresponding second valve cores, second guide frames, second guide rods and driving rods, and the second valve cores, second guide rods and driving rods are driven by the adsorption block.

10. The scroll high-efficiency energy-saving vacuum air pump according to claim 1, wherein A plurality of radial cavities are uniformly arranged in the impeller along the circumference; The radial cavities are respectively provided with an air inlet hole and an open port at the two ends in the radial direction of the impeller, the air inlet hole is communicated with the first air inlet, and the open port is communicated with the inner cavity of the shell core.

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