Post-processing method and device for three-dimensional object
By designing constraint bodies on three-dimensional objects to cooperate with the fixed components of positioning components, the problem of surface damage caused by collisions during the cleaning process is solved, achieving efficient and non-destructive cleaning, which is suitable for the mass production of highly transparent and high-precision three-dimensional objects.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511819519.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-06
AI Technical Summary
In the current cleaning process of 3D printed three-dimensional objects, collisions can easily occur, resulting in surface scratches, abrasions, and cracks, which affect aesthetics and functionality. In addition, the degree of automation is low, making it difficult to meet the needs of large-scale production.
A constraint body is designed on the three-dimensional object to cooperate with the fixing component of the positioning component. The constraint body fixes the three-dimensional object in the cleaning container to avoid collision, and the residual resin is accelerated by means of ultrasonic waves, shaking table vibration and other means.
It effectively avoids defects such as surface scratches, abrasions, and cracks, improves surface quality and reliability, simplifies cleaning operations, increases efficiency, and meets the needs of large-scale production.
Smart Images

Figure CN121608387A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of 3D printing technology, and more particularly to a post-processing method and apparatus for three-dimensional objects. Background Technology
[0002] 3D printing is a rapid prototyping technology that constructs objects layer by layer. This technology has wide applications in many fields. It can quickly produce prototypes of parts, helping engineers to verify and optimize designs, shorten product development cycles, and reduce production costs. It can also be used to create personalized medical devices, such as custom prostheses, dental restorations, and surgical guides, improving treatment outcomes and patient comfort.
[0003] After 3D printing creates a three-dimensional object, post-processing is required to obtain the final product. Among these post-processing steps, cleaning is crucial. This is because after the photopolymer 3D printed parts have completed layer-by-layer curing, a large amount of uncured liquid resin inevitably remains on the surface and in the internal micropores. This residual resin must be removed through a post-processing cleaning step to ensure the performance and appearance quality during subsequent secondary curing, surface polishing, or direct use. In existing technologies, the most common cleaning method is to directly immerse multiple printed parts in a cleaning container containing organic solvents (such as isopropanol, acetone, or specialized cleaning agents), and accelerate the dissolution and removal of residual resin through ultrasonic waves, shaking, spraying, stirring, or manual shaking.
[0004] The above-mentioned traditional cleaning methods have the following obvious drawbacks: 1. Surface damage caused by mechanical impact During batch cleaning, multiple printed parts collide, rub against each other, or come into contact with the tank walls due to liquid flow or ultrasonic vibration within the same cleaning chamber. This can easily lead to scratches, chipping, or microcracks on the surface of the printed parts. For printed parts made of highly transparent materials, even micron-level scratches can create light scattering defects during subsequent photopolymerization or polishing, resulting in significantly reduced transparency and increased optical distortion. This makes them unsuitable for applications with extremely high requirements for appearance and optical performance, such as optical lenses, light guides, and medical observation windows.
[0005] 2. Cleaning hard-to-reach areas and preventing secondary pollution Complex thin-walled, hollow, or micro-structured areas are prone to resin residue due to dead zones in liquid flow; at the same time, as the concentration of dissolved resin in the cleaning solvent increases, it will adhere to the surface of the printed parts, causing secondary pollution and reducing cleaning efficiency.
[0006] 3. Low degree of automation To avoid collision damage, existing technologies for cleaning high-transparency products often employ manual clamping of each item, which is inefficient and inconsistent, making it difficult to meet the needs of large-scale production.
[0007] In summary, while existing cleaning technologies for photopolymer 3D printed parts address the issue of residual resin, they cannot simultaneously meet the stringent requirements of high-transparency, high-precision printed parts for surface-free cleaning without damage or scratches. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a novel cleaning method and equipment that can effectively prevent mechanical collisions between printed parts while achieving efficient and thorough cleaning. Summary of the Invention
[0008] This application provides a post-processing method and apparatus for three-dimensional objects to solve the problem that existing 3D printed three-dimensional objects are prone to collisions during post-processing, especially during cleaning, resulting in scratches, abrasions, cracks, or even breakage on the surface. This not only affects the aesthetics of the three-dimensional objects but may also reduce their functionality and reliability, thereby significantly increasing the defect rate, increasing production costs, and affecting production efficiency.
[0009] In a first aspect, this application provides a post-processing method for three-dimensional objects, comprising the following steps: Provides a three-dimensional object formed by 3D printing, the three-dimensional object comprising a body and a constraint body connected to the body; The three-dimensional object is mounted onto a positioning assembly, wherein the positioning assembly has a fixing member that matches the constraint body, and the positioning assembly is disposed in the cleaning container of the cleaning mechanism; The three-dimensional object is cleaned using the cleaning mechanism. The cleaned three-dimensional object is detached from the positioning component; Separate the constraint body from the main body to obtain the main body.
[0010] Optionally, the constraint body is connected to the main body via a support member.
[0011] Optionally, the constraint body on the three-dimensional object is a base plate, wherein the base plate is at least the first layer to be formed at the beginning of 3D printing, and the base plate is connected to the main body through the support member.
[0012] Optionally, at least a portion of the constraint body is clamped to mount the three-dimensional object to or detach it from the positioning component.
[0013] Optionally, the cleaning container contains a cleaning solvent to clean the three-dimensional object.
[0014] Optionally, the constraint body includes at least one sheet-like member, and the fixing member includes at least one slot that mates with the sheet-like member.
[0015] Optionally, the constraint body and the fixing member are in a sliding fit, a snap-fit fit, or a shaft-hole fit.
[0016] Optionally, the body is transparent or semi-transparent.
[0017] Optionally, the method further includes a post-curing mechanism comprising a positioning element having a fixing portion that matches the constraint of the three-dimensional object; after the cleaned three-dimensional object is detached from the positioning element, the method further includes placing the three-dimensional object in the fixing portion of the post-curing mechanism containing solvent for post-curing.
[0018] Secondly, this application provides a post-processing device for cleaning three-dimensional objects, wherein the three-dimensional objects are formed by 3D printing, and the three-dimensional objects include a main body and a constraint body connected to the main body; the post-processing device includes: A positioning component having a fixing member that matches the constraint body, wherein the three-dimensional object is mounted on the positioning component; A cleaning mechanism, wherein the positioning component is disposed in the cleaning container of the cleaning mechanism, and the three-dimensional object is cleaned by the cleaning mechanism; The cleaned three-dimensional object can detach from the positioning component; The constraint body can be separated from the main body.
[0019] The technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages compared with the prior art: The method provided in this application embodiment controls a 3D printing device to process three-dimensional objects. A constraint body for connection with a positioning component is designed and printed on the three-dimensional object, such as a sheet-like part, rectangular boss, or circular boss extending from the body of the three-dimensional object. This constraint body is connected to the body of the three-dimensional object, ensuring that the three-dimensional object can be stably fixed in the cleaning container by the positioning component during the cleaning process. The three-dimensional object is placed in the cleaning container of the cleaning mechanism for cleaning. During the cleaning process, the dissolution and peeling of residual resin are accelerated by means of ultrasonic waves, shaking table vibration, spraying, stirring, or manual shaking. During the cleaning process, because the three-dimensional object is fixed in the cleaning container by the connection between the constraint body and the fixing component, collisions between different three-dimensional objects and between the three-dimensional object and the cleaning container are avoided, effectively protecting the surface quality of the three-dimensional object. After cleaning, the three-dimensional object is removed from the cleaning container, and the constraint body structure is removed, separating the three-dimensional object from the constraint body. By designing constraints on the 3D object and fixing it using the fixing components of the positioning assembly, collisions between the 3D object and other 3D objects or cleaning containers are effectively avoided during the cleaning process. This prevents defects such as surface scratches, abrasions, and cracks, significantly improving the surface quality and reliability of the 3D object. Furthermore, designing constraints on the main body and separating them in subsequent processes allows for the design of identical constraints on different main bodies, enabling the use of the same positioning assembly to fix different main bodies. Attached Figure Description
[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.
[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0022] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.
[0023] Figure 1 A step diagram illustrating a post-processing method for a three-dimensional object provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A structural diagram of a three-dimensional object provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 Structural diagrams of the three-dimensional object and positioning components provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 A structural diagram of the post-processing device for a three-dimensional object provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 The structure of a three-dimensional object on a 3D printing platform provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ; Figure 6 The structure of a three-dimensional object on a 3D printing platform provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ; Figure 7 The structure of a three-dimensional object on a 3D printing platform provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 .
[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Three-dimensional object; 11. Main body; 12. Constraint body; 13. Supporting component; 12a. Base plate; 2. Positioning component; 21. Fixing component; 21a. Slot; 3. Cleaning facilities; 4. Clean the container; 5. Molding platform. Detailed Implementation
[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0026] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed.
[0027] For ease of description, spatial relative terms may be used in the text to describe the relative position or movement of one element or feature relative to another element or feature, as shown in the figure. These relative terms include, for example, "inside," "outside," "middle," "outer," "below," "below," "above," "front," "back," etc. Such spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure undergoes a positional flip, orientation change, or change of motion, these directional indications will change accordingly. For instance, an element described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" will subsequently be oriented "above other elements or features" or "above other elements or features." Therefore, the example term "below" can include both upper and lower orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatial relative descriptors used in the text will be interpreted accordingly.
[0028] To address the technical problem that 3D printed objects 1 are prone to collisions during post-processing, especially during cleaning, resulting in scratches, abrasions, cracks, or even breakage on their surfaces, which not only affects their aesthetics but may also reduce their functionality and reliability, thus significantly increasing the defect rate, production costs, and production efficiency, this application provides a cleaning method. By designing the 3D object 1 to include a connected main body 11 and a constraint body 12, and setting a fixing component 21 that matches the constraint body 12 in the positioning component 2, the 3D object 1 is stably fixed during the cleaning process.
[0029] Please see Figures 1 to 6 The cleaning method provided in this application includes the following steps: Step S100: Provide a three-dimensional object 1 formed by 3D printing, the three-dimensional object 1 including a main body 11 and a constraint body 12 connected to the main body 11.
[0030] In step S100, a three-dimensional object 1 is processed using a 3D printing device, and one or more constraint bodies 12 connected to the positioning component 2 are designed and printed on the outer surface of the main body 11. These constraint bodies 12 are, for example, sheet-like parts (one or more) or boss structures connected to the main body 11 via support members 13. Figure 5As shown, the constraint 12 can be either a base plate 12a formed in the first few layers of 3D printing (determined by the set thickness) (the shape of the base plate can be configured as needed, for example, having a roughly circular, rectangular, or trapezoidal cross-section), the base plate 12a being connected to the main body 11 via the support member 13, or an additional structure connected to the main body 11. The constraint 12 is a structure that can fix the main body 11 during the cleaning process. The constraint 12 is connected to the main body 11 via the support member 13. After cleaning, the constraint 12 and the main body 11 can be separated by removing the support member 13, for example, by removing the support structure manually or mechanically later, or by placing the three-dimensional object 1 in a specific solution to remove or dissolve the support member 13 (or remove or dissolve the support member 13 and the constraint 12). The shape and size of the constraint 12 are designed to match the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2, such as the slot 21a, to ensure that the two can mutually limit each other and prevent the three-dimensional object 1 from loosening during subsequent cleaning. 3D printing generally uses photopolymerization 3D forming technology, including SLA equipment, LCD, DLP, etc.
[0031] Step S200: The three-dimensional object 1 is installed onto the positioning component 2, wherein the positioning component 2 has a fixing member 21 that matches the constraint body 12, and the positioning component 2 is disposed in the cleaning container 4 of the cleaning mechanism 3.
[0032] In step S200, the processed three-dimensional object 1 is removed from the printing platform (e.g., separated from the contact surface of the base plate 12a and the forming platform 5 by a shovel), and at least a portion of the constraint body 12 is clamped (e.g., held by hand or clamped by a tool) so that the constraint body 12 of the three-dimensional object 1 cooperates with the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2. The positioning component 2 is pre-fixed in the cleaning container 4 of the cleaning mechanism 3, or the positioning component 2 and the three-dimensional object 1 are placed together in the cleaning container 4 of the cleaning mechanism 3 for subsequent cleaning steps. The fit between the constraint body 12 and the fixing member 21 can be a sliding fit, a snap-fit fit, or a shaft-hole fit, and the fit between the constraint body 12 and the fixing member 21 is detachable. To facilitate the printing of the three-dimensional object 1, the constraint body 12 is generally set as a sheet-like part, a boss structure, or any structure that can match and limit the main body 11, so that when the constraint body 12 matches the fixing member 21, it limits the main body 11 in at least one direction, preventing it from shifting in at least one direction with the flow of cleaning solvent in the cleaning container. In order to match the constraint body 12, the fixing member 21 is generally set as a groove structure. By clamping the constraint body 12, the user can better operate the main body 11, and it can also prevent the user's hands or other sources of contamination from touching the main body 11, thereby affecting the surface quality of the main body 11. At the same time, it can also avoid the problem of damage to the surface of the main body 11 caused by using other tools to clamp the main body 11. The cleaning mechanism 3 may include a shaking table, an ultrasonic cleaner, or a manual shaking device. During the cleaning process, the residual resin is dissolved and peeled off by means of ultrasonic waves, shaking table vibration, spraying, stirring, or manual shaking. The cleaning mechanism 3 may be an ordinary container, such as a box, and cleaning is achieved by manual shaking. The vibration or shaking of the cleaning mechanism 3 effectively cleans the three-dimensional object 1.
[0033] Step S300: The three-dimensional object 1 is cleaned by the cleaning mechanism 3.
[0034] In step S300, the cleaning mechanism 3 is activated to clean the three-dimensional object 1 inside the cleaning container 4. During the cleaning process, the cleaning fluid (such as isopropanol, acetone, or a special cleaning agent) removes residual resin from the surface and internal micropores of the three-dimensional object 1. Since the three-dimensional object 1 is fixed in the positioning component 2 by the constraint body 12, collisions between the three-dimensional objects 1 and mechanical friction with the positioning component 2 are avoided.
[0035] Step S400: The cleaned 3D object 1 is detached from the positioning component 2.
[0036] In step S400, after cleaning is completed, the cleaning mechanism 3 is turned off, the cleaning container 4 is opened, and the three-dimensional object 1 is removed from the positioning component 2 by holding the restraint body 12. At this time, the surface of the three-dimensional object 1 is clean and there are no scratches or damage caused by collision.
[0037] In step S500, the constraint body 12 is separated from the main body 11 to obtain the main body 11.
[0038] In step S500, the support member 13 can be removed manually or using a special tool to separate the main body 11 from the constraint body 12. Alternatively, the support member 13 (or the support member 13 and the constraint body 12) can be removed by dissolving by setting support members 13 of different materials (or support members 13 and constraint body 12).
[0039] This application, by designing a constraint body 12 on the outer surface of the main body 11 and using the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2 to limit the constraint body 12, effectively avoids collisions between the three-dimensional object 1 and other three-dimensional objects 1 or the cleaning container 4 during the cleaning process. This prevents surface scratches, abrasions, cracks, and other defects, significantly improving the surface quality and reliability of the main body 11. This method achieves fixed cleaning of the main body 11, reducing the defect rate caused by collisions and lowering production costs. Simultaneously, the fixed cleaning method simplifies the cleaning operation, improves cleaning efficiency, and meets the needs of large-scale production. Furthermore, after cleaning, the main body 11 and the constraint body 12 can be separated by removing the support member 13, simplifying the operation and further improving production efficiency.
[0040] Please see Figure 2 The constraint body 12 is connected to the main body 11 via the support member 13. Optionally, the plane containing the main body 11 and the plane containing the constraint body 12 are set at an angle.
[0041] When designing the main body 11 model in 3D modeling software, additional support components 13 and constraint bodies 12 are designed simultaneously. The shape and size of the support component 13 are optimized according to the structure of the main body 11 and the requirements of the constraint body 12 to ensure that the support component 13 can firmly connect the main body 11 and the constraint body 12. In particular, a predetermined angle can be formed between the plane of the main body 11 and the plane of the constraint body 12. For example, by designing an inclined support component 13, a specific angle can be formed between the main body 11 and the constraint body 12. This angle can be set between 30 degrees and 90 degrees, specifically 45 degrees. This setting can further increase the number of three-dimensional objects 1 that can be cleaned simultaneously in the positioning component 2. This angle setting can also ensure that all outer surfaces of the three-dimensional object 1 can be thoroughly cleaned during the cleaning process. The shape of the support component 13 is not limited and can be one or more cylinders or cuboids, etc.
[0042] Please see Figure 5 When designing the main body 11 model in 3D modeling software, a base plate 12a and a support member 13 are usually added to ensure successful printing of the main body 11. The forming platform 5 is the platform used for printing on the 3D printing equipment. First, a base plate 12a of a certain thickness is formed on the forming platform 5. The forming platform 5 contacts the base plate 12a. Then, the support member 13 is formed, and then the main body 11 is formed. Then, the base plate 12a and the forming platform 5 are separated with a tool, and the entire three-dimensional object 1 is moved into the cleaning container 4. By using the base plate 12a as a constraint 12 and engaging with the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2, the entire three-dimensional object 1 is fixed in the cleaning container. Then, the three-dimensional object 1 is cleaned. After cleaning, the three-dimensional object 1 is removed by detaching the constraint 12 from the fixing member 21. The support member 13 in the three-dimensional object 1 is removed to separate the constraint 12 from the main body 11, resulting in the cleaned main body 11; or other post-processing can be performed after cleaning, and then the support member 13 can be removed (this can be done after different post-processing steps depending on the actual situation), resulting in the processed main body 11.
[0043] Please see Figure 6 First, a substrate of a certain thickness is formed on the forming platform 5, with the forming platform 5 in contact with the substrate. Then, the supporting components of the three-dimensional object 1 are formed, followed by the main body 11 and the constraint body 12. The constraint body 12 and the main body 11 are connected by the aforementioned supporting member 13. Next, the substrate and the forming platform 5 are separated using a tool, and the supporting components between the substrate and the main body 11, as well as between the substrate and the constraint body 12, are removed. The main body 11 and the connected constraint body 12 are then moved together into the cleaning container 4. By engaging the constraint body 12 with the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2, the entire three-dimensional object 1 is fixed in the cleaning container. The three-dimensional object 1 is then cleaned. After cleaning, the three-dimensional object 1 is removed by detaching the constraint body 12 from the fixing member 21. The supporting member 13 connecting the main body 11 and the constraint body 12 is removed to separate the constraint body 12 from the main body 11, resulting in a cleaned main body 11. Alternatively, the constraint body 12 may not be directly connected to the substrate, but can be connected at any position on the main body 11. The position can be determined based on the shape of the main body 11, the shape of the matching fixing member, etc.
[0044] like Figure 7As shown, the constraint body 12 can be a part of the main body 11, and the main body 11 is fixed to the positioning component 2 by using part of the main body 11's own structure. Specifically, a base plate of a certain thickness is first formed on the forming platform 5, and the forming platform 5 contacts the base plate; then the support component of the three-dimensional object 1 is formed, and then the main body 11 including the constraint body 12 is formed. The constraint body 12 is a part of the structure of the main body 11. Then, the base plate and the forming platform 5 are separated by tools, the support component between the base plate and the main body 11 is removed, and the main body 11 is moved into the cleaning container 4. By engaging the constraint body 12, which is a part of the structure of the main body 11, with the fixing component 21 of the positioning component 2, the main body 11 is fixed in the cleaning container. Then, the main body 11 is cleaned. After cleaning, the main body 11 is removed by detaching the constraint body 12 from the fixing component 21, and the cleaned main body 11 is obtained.
[0045] When the constraint body 12 is the base plate 12a, the support member 13 provides support for the main body 11 to ensure its smooth forming, while also connecting the main body 11 and the constraint body 12 to ensure that the main body 11 will not loosen or fall off during cleaning or other post-processing. When the constraint body 12 is an additionally designed protrusion, the support member 13 connects the main body 11 and the constraint body 12 to ensure that the main body 11 will not loosen or fall off during cleaning or other post-processing. When the constraint body 12 is part of the main body 11, it is fixed to the positioning component to ensure that the main body 11 will not loosen or fall off during cleaning or other post-processing, and the subsequent separation step between the constraint body 12 and the main body 11 can be omitted. By setting the angle between the plane where the main body 11 is located and the plane where the constraint body 12 is located, the usage effect of the main body 11 can be optimized according to different application scenarios and needs. For example, during the cleaning process, the main body 11 is fixed to the constraint body 12 by the support member 13, which can effectively prevent damage to the main body 11 caused by collision or water flow impact.
[0046] In this embodiment, when controlling the 3D printing equipment to process the three-dimensional object 1, the shape and size of the constraint body 12 are optimized according to the structure of the main body 11 and the requirements of the printing platform. For example, the constraint body 12 can exist as a base plate 12a, with a plane at its bottom matching the shape of the processing platform; or, for example, the constraint body 12 can be an additional protrusion connected to the main body 11, formed together with the main body 11, used to fix and limit the three-dimensional object 1 in subsequent post-processing. The designed model is imported into the 3D printing equipment, and appropriate printing parameters, such as printing speed, layer thickness, and material, are selected. The 3D printing equipment is started, and the equipment will print the three-dimensional object 1 layer by layer according to the designed model. During the printing process, when the constraint body 12 is designed as a base plate 12a, it is first formed on the processing platform, and then printed layer by layer to form the support 13 and the main body 11, ensuring the smooth formation of the main body 11. When the constraint body 12 is designed as an additional protrusion, it is formed layer by layer together with the main body 11 after the base plate 12a is formed by 3D printing.
[0047] By designing the constraint body 12 as a base plate 12a that contacts the processing platform during the 3D printing process, the molding of additional protrusions can be reduced, and it can continue to play a role in subsequent cleaning or other post-processing to ensure the fixation and protection of the main body 11. For example, during the cleaning process, the constraint body 12 can act as a fixing device to prevent the main body 11 from moving or colliding in the cleaning fluid, thereby improving the surface quality and reliability of the main body 11.
[0048] Please see Figure 3 In one embodiment, the user can hold at least a portion of the constraint body 12 to install the three-dimensional object 1 onto or detach it from the positioning component 2. Specifically, the constraint body 12 is a sheet-like structure. After the three-dimensional object 1 is installed as a whole on the positioning component 2, a portion of it protrudes beyond the fixing member 21 of the positioning component 2. This part of the structure allows the user to hold the constraint body 12 by hand or use tools to perform operations such as installation or movement of the main body 11.
[0049] By designing a constraint 12 exposed on the fixed component 21, the operator can easily grasp and move the three-dimensional object 1 without direct contact with the main body 11 itself, thereby improving the convenience and efficiency of the operation. For example, when cleaning a high-precision 3D printed three-dimensional object 1, the constraint 12 can prevent scratches or damage caused by the operator's direct contact with the main body 11. The design of the constraint 12 reduces the operator's chance of direct contact with the main body 11, thereby reducing the risk of scratches, abrasions, etc. on the surface of the main body 11 due to improper operation, and effectively protecting the surface quality and integrity of the main body 11. For example, when cleaning a high-transparency 3D printed main body 11, the constraint 12 can ensure that the main body 11 remains undamaged during the cleaning process, improving the final quality of the main body 11.
[0050] Please see Figure 4 The cleaning container 4 contains cleaning solvent to clean the three-dimensional object 1.
[0051] In this embodiment, the cleaning container 4 contains a cleaning solvent specifically designed for cleaning the three-dimensional object 1. When the three-dimensional object 1 is a resin product manufactured using photopolymer 3D printing technology, the cleaning solvent can be isopropanol (IPA), acetone, or a specialized cleaning agent. These solvents can effectively dissolve and remove residual resin from the surface and internal micropores of the three-dimensional object 1. During implementation, the three-dimensional object 1 is mounted onto the positioning component 2 fixed in the cleaning container 4, ensuring that the three-dimensional object 1 is completely immersed in the cleaning solvent. For example, when using isopropanol as the cleaning solvent, the isopropanol level in the cleaning container 4 can be set to a height sufficient to cover the three-dimensional object 1. Then, the cleaning mechanism 3 is activated, accelerating the dissolution and removal of residual resin through ultrasonic vibration or shaking table vibration. During the cleaning process, the cleaning solvent fully contacts every surface of the three-dimensional object 1, thereby achieving comprehensive cleaning.
[0052] This application designs a customized constraint body 12 on the main body 11. This constraint body 12 can fix and limit the main body 11 during the cleaning process and can be separated from the main body 11 in subsequent processes to obtain the post-processed main body 11. This customized constraint body 12 design effectively avoids collisions between the three-dimensional object 1 and other objects or the cleaning container 4 during the cleaning process, thus preventing surface scratches, abrasions, cracks, and other defects. It also avoids surface defects caused by clamping of the main body 11 during the cleaning process, prevents unstable clamping of the main body 11 during the cleaning process, eliminates the need for fixtures to clamp the main body 11, and allows the constraint body to be separated from the main body in subsequent processes. This design is particularly suitable for the post-processing of 3D printed products with high transparency or high surface quality requirements. When using an ultrasonic cleaner, the high-frequency vibration of ultrasound can generate a large number of microbubbles in the cleaning solvent. The impact force generated when these bubbles burst can accelerate the peeling of residual resin. Simultaneously, because the three-dimensional object 1 is fixed in the positioning component 2 by the constraint body 12, damage caused by collisions is avoided. After cleaning, the three-dimensional object 1 can be used to obtain the final product by simply removing the constraint body 12. The operation is simple and further improves production efficiency.
[0053] Please see Figure 3The constraint body 12 includes at least one sheet-like component, and the fixing component includes at least one slot 21a that matches the sheet-like component. The constraint body 12 can be designed as a sheet-like structure with a slot, the shape and size of which match the slot 21a in the fixing component 21. During implementation, after the 3D object 1 is removed from the 3D printing platform, the sheet-like component of the constraint body 12 is held and aligned with the slot 21a in the positioning component 2 and inserted, thereby firmly fixing the 3D object 1 in the positioning component 2. When the sheet-like component of the constraint body 12 is rectangular, the slot 21a of the fixing component 21 is also designed to be rectangular, and the two are fixed by a tight snap-fit. This design not only ensures the stability of the 3D object 1 during the cleaning process, but also facilitates the quick installation and removal of the 3D object 1 by the operator. In addition, the design of the sheet-like component can be optimized as needed, such as adding anti-slip texture or adjusting the thickness, to further improve the fixing effect. The matching design of the sheet-like component and slot 21a ensures that the 3D object 1 will not loosen or shift during the cleaning process, thereby effectively avoiding defects such as surface scratches, abrasions, and cracks caused by collisions, and significantly improving the surface quality and reliability of the product. When cleaning high-precision 3D printed parts, the tight fit between the sheet-like component and slot 21a ensures that the parts remain stable during the cleaning process, avoiding damage caused by vibration or water flow impact.
[0054] Please see Figure 3 The constraint body 12 and the fixing component 21 can be fitted with sliding joints, snap-fit joints, or shaft-hole joints, allowing users to flexibly choose the appropriate fixing method according to different 3D object structures and cleaning requirements. This ensures the stable fixation of the 3D object during the cleaning process and effectively avoids damage caused by collisions or vibrations. Sliding joints facilitate quick installation and disassembly, improving operational efficiency; snap-fit joints provide a more reliable fixing effect, ensuring that the 3D object will not loosen during cleaning; shaft-hole joints are suitable for 3D objects requiring precise alignment, ensuring their stability during cleaning. This diversity of fitting methods not only improves the safety and reliability of the cleaning process but also enhances the adaptability and flexibility of the entire cleaning system.
[0055] In one embodiment, the main body 11 is transparent or semi-transparent. The cooperation between the constraint body 12 and the fixing member 21 improves the safety and reliability of the cleaning process and enhances the adaptability and flexibility of the entire cleaning system, making it particularly suitable for the cleaning needs of high-precision, high-transparency three-dimensional objects 1.
[0056] Please see Figure 1 The post-processing method for the three-dimensional object 1 further includes providing a post-curing mechanism, which includes a positioning element having a fixing part that matches the constraint of the three-dimensional object 1; after the cleaned three-dimensional object 1 is detached from the positioning component 2, the method further includes placing the three-dimensional object 1 in the fixing part of the post-curing mechanism containing solvent for post-curing.
[0057] In this embodiment, after the cleaned three-dimensional object 1 is detached from the positioning component 2, it is placed in the fixing part of the post-curing mechanism containing solvent for post-curing. For example, the post-curing mechanism can be a container with a fixing part designed as a groove or slot structure that matches the constraint body 12. In practice, after removing the cleaned three-dimensional object 1 from the positioning component 2, the constraint body 12 is held and inserted into the fixing part of the post-curing mechanism to ensure that the three-dimensional object 1 is firmly fixed on the fixing part, thereby ensuring a higher quality post-curing. The post-curing mechanism contains solvent that immerses the three-dimensional object 1, ensuring that it achieves its final mechanical and optical properties.
[0058] Secondly, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 This application provides a post-processing device for three-dimensional objects, used for cleaning three-dimensional objects. The three-dimensional object 1 is formed by 3D printing and includes a main body 11 and a constraint body 12 connected to the main body 11. The post-processing device includes a positioning component 2 and a cleaning mechanism 3. The positioning component 2 has a fixing member 21 that matches the constraint body. The three-dimensional object 1 is installed in the positioning component 2. The positioning component 2 is disposed in the cleaning container 4 of the cleaning mechanism 3, and the three-dimensional object 1 is cleaned by the cleaning mechanism 3. The cleaned three-dimensional object 1 can be detached from the positioning component 2. The constraint body 12 can be separated from the main body 11.
[0059] The three-dimensional object post-processing equipment provided in this application is specifically designed for cleaning a three-dimensional object 1 formed by 3D printing. Specifically, after removing the three-dimensional object 1 from the 3D printing platform, it is mounted on the positioning component 2 through the cooperation of the constraint body 12 and the fixing component 21, such as sliding fit, snap-fit fit, or shaft hole fit. For example, when the constraint body 12 is a sheet-like structure with a slot, the fixing component 21 can be designed as a matching groove structure, achieving fixation of the three-dimensional object 1 through snap-fit. The fixing component 21 can be pre-fixed in the cleaning container 4 of the cleaning mechanism 3. The cleaning mechanism 3 can employ an ultrasonic cleaner, a shaking table vibrator, or a manual shaking device, using ultrasonic waves, vibration, spraying, stirring, or manual shaking to accelerate the dissolution and peeling of residual resin. After cleaning, the cleaning mechanism 3 is turned off, the cleaning container 4 is opened, and the constraint body 12 is clamped to remove the three-dimensional object 1 from the positioning component 2. Finally, as needed, the main body 11 can be separated from the constraint body 12 by manual removal or by dissolution, obtaining the final post-processed main body 11.
[0060] This application, by designing a constraint body 12 on the three-dimensional object 1 and fixing it using the fixing component 21 of the positioning assembly 2, effectively avoids collisions between the three-dimensional object 1 and other objects or the cleaning container 4 during the cleaning process. This prevents defects such as surface scratches, abrasions, and cracks, significantly improving the surface quality and reliability of the main body 11. This equipment achieves fixed cleaning of the three-dimensional object 1, reducing the defect rate caused by collisions and lowering production costs. Simultaneously, the fixed cleaning method simplifies the cleaning operation, improves cleaning efficiency, and meets the needs of large-scale production. Furthermore, after cleaning, the main body 11 and the constraint body 12 can be separated through a simple removal operation, simplifying the operation and further improving production efficiency. For example, when cleaning a high-precision, high-transparency 3D printed main body 11, this fixing method ensures that the main body 11 remains undamaged during the cleaning process, improving the final quality of the main body 11.
[0061] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” as used herein may also include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not construed as requiring them to be performed in a particular order described or illustrated unless the order of performance is explicitly indicated. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used.
[0062] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used in this document to describe multiple elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.
[0063] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.
Claims
1. A post-processing method of a three-dimensional object, characterized by, The method comprises the following steps: providing a three-dimensional object (1) formed by 3D printing, the three-dimensional object (1) comprising a main body (11) and a constraint body (12) connected with the main body; mounting the three-dimensional object (1) to a positioning assembly (2), wherein the positioning assembly (2) has a fixing member (21) matched with the constraint body (12), and the positioning assembly (2) is arranged in a cleaning container (4) of a cleaning mechanism (3); cleaning the three-dimensional object (1) by the cleaning mechanism (3); separating the three-dimensional object (1) from the positioning assembly (2) after cleaning; separating the constraint body (12) from the main body (11) to obtain the main body (11).
2. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, The constraint body (12) is connected with the main body (11) by a support (13).
3. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 2, wherein, The constraint body (12) on the three-dimensional object (1) is a bottom plate (12a), wherein the bottom plate (12a) is at least a first layer formed by starting 3D printing, and the bottom plate (12a) is connected with the main body (11) by the support (13).
4. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, At least a part of the constraint body (12) is clamped to mount or separate the three-dimensional object (1) to or from the positioning assembly (2).
5. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning container (4) contains a cleaning solvent to clean the three-dimensional object (1).
6. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, The constraint body (12) comprises at least one sheet, and the fixing member (21) comprises at least one slot (21a) matched with the sheet.
7. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, The constraint body (12) and the fixing member (21) are in a sliding fit, a snap fit or a shaft hole fit.
8. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein, The main body (11) is transparent or translucent.
9. The post-processing method of a three-dimensional object according to claim 1, wherein The method further comprises providing a post-curing mechanism comprising a positioning member having a fixing part matched with the constraint body (12) of the three-dimensional object (1); After separating the three-dimensional object (1) from the positioning assembly (2) after cleaning, the method further comprises placing the three-dimensional object (1) in the fixing part of the post-curing mechanism containing a solvent for post-curing.
10. A post-processing apparatus for washing a three-dimensional object (1), comprising: The three-dimensional object (1) is formed by 3D printing, and the three-dimensional object (1) comprises a main body (11) and a constraint body (12) connected with the main body (11); The post-processing device comprises: a positioning assembly (2) having a fixing member (21) matched with the constraint body (12), and the three-dimensional object (1) is mounted in the positioning assembly (2); a cleaning mechanism (3), and the positioning assembly (2) is arranged in a cleaning container (4) of the cleaning mechanism (3), and the three-dimensional object (1) is cleaned by the cleaning mechanism (3); the three-dimensional object (1) after cleaning can be separated from the positioning assembly (2); the constraint body (12) can be separated from the main body (11).