Limiting mechanism and printing system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a limiting mechanism and a printing system, the limiting mechanism comprises a limiting part and a driving part, the limiting part comprises a cantilever, and the driving part is connected with the limiting part and can drive the limiting part to move. According to the 3D printer, the container assembly can be limited layer by layer through layer-by-layer ascending of the cantilever, so that layer-by-layer printing of the 3D printer is achieved, and the printing precision is guaranteed.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202511073917.9, filed on July 31, 2025, entitled "Container Components, Printing Equipment and Printing System," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202511433214.2, filed on September 30, 2025, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China, entitled "Container Components, Printing Equipment, Printing System, Printing Material Capsule and Printing Material Capsule Assembly," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of 3D printing technology, and in particular to a limiting mechanism and printing system. Background Technology

[0003] Most existing photopolymer 3D printing equipment uses a motor and lead screw to move the printing platform along the Z-axis to achieve layer-by-layer 3D printing. This method is quite difficult for printing high-viscosity resin materials. Furthermore, limiting the container components during the printing process to ensure printing accuracy is challenging. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a limiting mechanism and a printing system to alleviate the problem in the prior art that it is difficult to limit the container components during the printing process to ensure printing accuracy.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a limiting mechanism, including a limiting part and a driving part. The limiting part includes a cantilever, and the driving part is connected to the limiting part and can drive the limiting part to move.

[0006] Furthermore, the cantilever is provided with an air injection mechanism, and the cantilever can abut against the container assembly under the drive of the drive unit, and the air injection mechanism is connected to the air vent of the container assembly.

[0007] Furthermore, the gas injection mechanism includes a gas outlet connector, the outlet of which forms a gas outlet; an elastic sealing sleeve is fitted on the outside of the gas outlet connector, and when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly, the elastic sealing sleeve is sealed and inserted into the vent.

[0008] Furthermore, the elastic sealing sleeve includes a sleeve body, and a sealing sheet protruding outward is provided on the circumferential outer wall of the sleeve body; when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly, the sealing sheet abuts against the vent.

[0009] Furthermore, along the first direction, the number of sealing pieces is at least two.

[0010] Furthermore, along the first direction, among two adjacent sealing sheets, the outer diameter of the sealing sheet closer to the interior of the container assembly is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing sheet farther from the interior of the container assembly.

[0011] Furthermore, a first positioning structure is provided on the surface of the limiting part having the air outlet; a second positioning structure is correspondingly provided on the container assembly; when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly, the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure cooperate to position the limiting part and the container assembly in a first direction and a first plane, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0012] Furthermore, the first positioning structure includes a protrusion disposed on the bottom surface of the limiting part, and the second positioning structure includes a recess disposed on the container assembly; when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly, the protrusion is inserted into the recess.

[0013] Furthermore, the driving unit includes a lead screw, a motor, and a slider. The motor is connected to the lead screw to drive the lead screw to rotate, and the lead screw is connected to the limiting part. The slider is threadedly connected to the lead screw and is used for fixed connection with the frame.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a locking device mounted on the cantilever, which is used to lock and fix the container assembly to the cantilever.

[0015] Furthermore, the locking device includes:

[0016] Base;

[0017] A drive component, wherein the drive component is disposed on the base;

[0018] A snap-fit ​​assembly, which is rotatably connected to the outer surface of the base;

[0019] The drive component drives the buckle component to rotate, so that the buckle component opens or closes during the rotation, thereby locking or unlocking the container component.

[0020] Furthermore, the locking device further includes: a rotating part, which is rotatably disposed on the base, the rotating part being connected to the driving assembly, and the outer contour of the rotating part contacting one end of the buckle assembly;

[0021] The outer contour of the rotating part includes two oppositely arranged first contours and two oppositely arranged second contours. The first contours and the second contours are connected, and one of the first contours and the second contours protrudes along the radial direction of the rotating part.

[0022] The shapes of the first contour and the second contour are matched with the opening and closing motion trajectory of the buckle assembly, and the buckle assembly is opened and closed by the rotational motion of the rotating part.

[0023] Furthermore, the locking device is adapted to the positioning part of the cantilever, the positioning part is axially engaged with the container assembly, and the buckle assembly engages with the container assembly when closed to lock the container assembly.

[0024] Furthermore, the base is provided with a clearance area. When the locking device is installed on the positioning part, the clearance area is used to allow the vent hole on the positioning part to communicate with the air injection mechanism on the cantilever.

[0025] Furthermore, the buckle assembly includes at least two hooks, which are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the base. Each hook has a force-receiving end and a locking end.

[0026] The force-bearing end is in contact with the first contour, and the locking end is in a locked state;

[0027] The force-bearing end is in contact with the second contour, and the locking end is in the unlocked state.

[0028] Furthermore, the end of the container assembly has a radially extending protrusion;

[0029] When the locking device is in the locked state, the locking end of the buckle assembly engages with the protrusion of the container assembly to lock the container assembly.

[0030] Furthermore, it also includes: an elastic element disposed between the base and the hook element, and the elastic element is used to provide an elastic force in the inward direction at the force-bearing end.

[0031] Furthermore, the drive assembly includes a drive unit and a transmission assembly;

[0032] One end of the transmission assembly is connected to the drive unit, and the other end of the transmission assembly is connected to the rotating unit;

[0033] The transmission assembly includes a first transmission member and a second transmission member, which are rotatably connected to the driving unit. The driving unit drives the first transmission member to rotate, thereby causing the second transmission member to rotate.

[0034] Furthermore, the rotating part also has a through hole, and a circumferential third transmission component is provided on the cavity wall of the through hole;

[0035] The third transmission component is connected to the second transmission component in a transmission manner.

[0036] Furthermore, the third transmission component is rotatably connected to the base via a bearing;

[0037] The rotating part is provided with a stepped part, the inner end of the bearing is engaged with the stepped part, and the outer end of the bearing is engaged with the base.

[0038] Furthermore, it also includes: an adapter, one end of which passes through the through hole of the rotating part and is fixedly connected to the driving part, and the other end of which is fixedly connected to the base.

[0039] Furthermore, an air injection mechanism is provided inside the cantilever, and a positioning part is provided at the end of the cantilever, with a vent hole communicating with the air injection mechanism on the positioning part.

[0040] When the locking device locks and fixes the container assembly to the cantilever, the vent hole of the positioning part aligns with the air inlet of the container assembly.

[0041] Furthermore, the cantilever moves up and down, and the container assembly is fixed by the locking device, so that the cantilever drives the container assembly to move up and down synchronously.

[0042] Furthermore, the vent is provided with a sealing element, which includes aluminum foil and / or heat-shrink film.

[0043] Furthermore, the cantilever is provided with a piercing element for penetrating the package.

[0044] Secondly, this application provides a printing system, including a system host, a container component, and a limiting mechanism as described in any of the above.

[0045] This application has at least the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0046] This application provides a limiting mechanism and a printing system. The limiting mechanism includes a limiting part and a driving part. The limiting part includes a cantilever, and the driving part is connected to the limiting part and can drive the limiting part to move. This application can limit the container assembly layer by layer by raising the cantilever layer by layer, thereby enabling the 3D printer to print layer by layer to ensure printing accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0048] Figure 1 A side view of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application after printing;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application before printing;

[0051] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of the area at position M in the middle;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application after printing.

[0053] Figure 6 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning component of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application before clamping;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning component clamping the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0056] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the fixing stage of the positioning component of the printing system provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the locking device provided in the embodiments of this application when it is open;

[0058] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the locking device when closed, as provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0059] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of the locking device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the locking device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0061] Figure 14 This is an exploded view of the printing device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a printing device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 16 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the printing device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0064] Icons: 100 - Container component; 110 - Outer cylinder; 124 - Inner cylinder body; 1255 - Second positioning structure;

[0065] 200 - Positioning component; 210 - Fixing platform; 211 - Positioning recess; 212 - Support platform; 213 - Light-transmitting support component; 220 - Clamping part;

[0066] 300 - Injection mechanism; 310 - Outlet connector; 320 - Elastic sealing sleeve; 321 - Sealing plate; 330 - Limiting part; 331 - First positioning structure;

[0067] 400 - Limiting mechanism; 410 - Lead screw; 420 - Slider; 430 - Slide rail; 440 - Track groove;

[0068] 10-Locking device;

[0069] 20 - Base; 21 - Through hole; 22 - Third mounting slot;

[0070] 30 - Drive assembly; 31 - Drive unit; 32 - Transmission assembly; 3211 - First transmission component; 3221 - Second transmission component;

[0071] 40 - Rotating part; 41 - Outer contour; 411 - First contour; 412 - Second contour; 42 - Through hole; 421 - Third transmission component; 43 - Bearing; 44 - Stepped part;

[0072] 50-Snap-on assembly; 51-Hook component; 511-Force-bearing end; 512-Locking end; 513-First mounting slot; 514-Second mounting slot; 52-Rotating shaft; 53-Elastic component;

[0073] 600-Adapter;

[0074] 700 - Printing equipment; 710 - Cantilever; 711 - Positioning part; 712 - Vent; 730 - Platform assembly; 731 - Protrusion; 740 - Buffer;

[0075] 800 - Printing System. Detailed Implementation

[0076] 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, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0077] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0078] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0079] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of this application is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0080] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0081] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0082] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing system provided in this application includes a container assembly 100, a positioning assembly 200, an air injection mechanism 300, and a limiting mechanism 400.

[0083] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the air outlet of the air injection mechanism 300 is connected to the air vent; the limiting mechanism 400 includes a limiting part 330 that can move along a first direction, used to limit the movement distance of the platform assembly 120 in the first direction.

[0084] like Figures 3-5 As shown, before printing, the gas injection mechanism 300 is connected to the container assembly 100 to inject gas into the container assembly 100. During printing, in order to control the movement distance of the platform assembly 120, the limiting part 330 of the limiting mechanism 400 is connected to the platform assembly 120. It should be noted that the limiting part 330 and the platform assembly 120 can be directly connected; or they can form an abutment relationship, that is, during the rising process of the platform assembly 120, the limiting part 330 acts as a stop, and when the platform assembly 120 contacts the limiting part 330, the platform assembly 120 cannot continue to rise. After the limiting part 330 moves a distance L in the first direction, the platform assembly 120 will move upward a distance L under the pressure of gas. In this embodiment, the limiting part 330 can be set to rise at a fixed speed. Correspondingly, under the limitation of the limiting part 330, the platform component 120 will move vertically upward at approximately the same speed. The limiting part 330 moves layer by layer, and the platform component 120 moves layer by layer, thereby realizing layer-by-layer printing to form a printed part. This avoids the platform component 120 from failing to move the required distance due to excessive or insufficient air pressure, which would lead to printing failure.

[0085] The air injection mechanism 300 is connected to the limiting part 330. The limiting part 330 drives the air injection mechanism 300 to move toward or away from the air inlet, so that the air inlet and the air outlet are connected or separated.

[0086] In other feasible solutions, the gas injection mechanism 300 and the limiting part 330 can be two independent components.

[0087] like Figures 2-4 As shown, in this embodiment, to simplify the structure and improve the degree of automation, the gas injection mechanism 300 and the limiting part 330 are integrated on the same component. The limiting part 330 includes a cantilever that can move up and down. The gas injection mechanism 300 is mounted on the cantilever, and the gas outlet of the gas injection mechanism 300 is fixedly connected to the cantilever. Before printing, the cantilever moves to a position above the installation position of the container assembly 100, assembling the container assembly 100 into place. Then, the cantilever is lowered, causing the gas outlet of the gas injection mechanism 300 to align with the vent. Simultaneously, the cantilever presses against the top surface of the platform assembly 120, forming a limiting position. During the printing process, as the cantilever rises, the platform assembly 120 also moves upward under gas compression. The gas outlet of the gas injection mechanism 300 remains aligned with the vent. The rising position of the cantilever restricts the rising position of the platform assembly 120. The cantilever rises layer by layer, limiting the platform assembly 120 layer by layer, thereby enabling the 3D printer to print layer by layer.

[0088] For example, the vent connector 310 can be fixedly mounted on the cantilever or movably connected to the cantilever. When the vent connector 310 is fixedly mounted on the cantilever, the vent connector 310 connects with the vent when the cantilever and platform assembly are engaged.

[0089] like Figure 4 As shown, the air injection mechanism 300 includes an air outlet connector 310, the outlet of which forms an air outlet; an elastic sealing sleeve 320 is sleeved on the outside of the air outlet connector 310, which is used to seal and insert with the air inlet.

[0090] The vent connector 310 is inserted into the inside of the vent. The elastic sealing sleeve 320 on the outside of the vent connector 310 can be squeezed and deformed against the inner wall of the first skirt 1252 to fill the gap between them, thereby increasing the sealing performance and preventing air leakage.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, the elastic sealing sleeve 320 includes a sleeve body, and a sealing piece 321 protruding outward is provided on the circumferential outer wall of the sleeve body. Along the first direction, the number of sealing pieces 321 can be one, two or more. The spaced sealing pieces 321 can provide a larger deformation space. The sealing pieces 321 will undergo greater deformation when squeezed, thereby better filling the gap between the sleeve body and the first skirt 1252, and also making it easier to assemble.

[0092] Along the first direction, among two adjacent sealing pieces 321, the outer diameter of the sealing piece 321 closer to the inside of the receiving cavity 121 is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing piece 321 farther from the inside of the receiving cavity 121.

[0093] From top to bottom, the first skirt 1252 has a tapered cylindrical structure. In order to match the tapered shape of the first skirt 1252, the shape of the elastic sealing sleeve 320 is matched with the shape of the first skirt 1252, so that the elastic sealing sleeve 320 can be easily inserted into the first skirt 1252; at the same time, the contact surface between the two is larger, the sealing effect is greater, and the assembly is easier.

[0094] A first positioning structure 331 is provided on the surface of the limiting part 330 with an air outlet; a second positioning structure 1255 is provided on the cover 125 of the platform assembly 120. The first positioning structure 331 and the second positioning structure 1255 cooperate to position the limiting part 330 and the platform assembly 120 in a first direction and a first plane, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0095] The first positioning structure 331 includes a protrusion on the bottom surface of the limiting part 330, while the second positioning structure 1255 includes a recess on the cover 125. After the limiting part 330 descends and the air outlet connector 310 is inserted into the inside of the air vent, the first positioning structure 331 is inserted into the second positioning structure 1255 to form a positioning. After positioning, the axial direction of the container assembly 100 is perpendicular to the bottom surface of the limiting part 330, thus ensuring that the axial direction of the container assembly 100 is vertical. Furthermore, after the first positioning structure 331 is inserted into the second positioning structure 1255, the container assembly 100 cannot move relative to the circumference under the positioning of the first positioning structure 331, thereby improving the stability of the container assembly 100 during printing and preventing shaking. Alternatively, the first positioning structure 331 may include a recess on the bottom surface of the limiting part 330, while the second positioning structure 1255 may include a protrusion on the cover 125.

[0096] like Figures 3-6 As shown, the printing equipment also includes a frame. The limiting mechanism 400 includes a drive unit, and the limiting unit 330 is connected to the drive unit. The drive unit is used to drive the limiting unit 330 to move in a first direction. The drive unit includes a lead screw 410, a motor, and a slider 420. The motor is connected to the lead screw 410 to drive the lead screw 410 to rotate. The slider 420 is threadedly connected to the lead screw 410. The slider 420 is fixedly connected to the frame. The motor and the limiting unit 330 move only relative to the frame in the first direction, so that after the motor is started, the motor and the lead screw 410 move together relative to the slider 420 in the first direction.

[0097] The lower end of the lead screw 410 is connected to the motor, and the upper end is rotatably connected to the limiting part 330. The lead screw 410 and the limiting part 330 can rotate relative to each other, but the limiting part 330 is restricted from rotating relative to the frame. Therefore, during the printing process, the frame is stationary and the slider 420 is fixedly connected to the frame. After the motor starts, the lead screw 410 rotates. Since the slider 420 is fixed and the motor is restricted by the frame to move only in the first direction and cannot rotate, the lead screw 410, the motor and the limiting part 330 move together in the first direction.

[0098] like Figure 2 As shown, specifically, the motor and the limiting part 330 are connected by a slide rail 430, and the motor, the limiting part 330, and the slide rail 430 have the same motion state. A track groove 440 is provided on the frame to slide in connection with the slide rail 430. The slide rail 430 is slidably connected in the track groove 440, and the track groove 440 limits the slide rail 430, so that it can only move in the first direction and cannot rotate.

[0099] The printing device also includes a positioning component 200 for securing the container assembly 100.

[0100] like Figures 7-9 As shown, before printing, the container assembly 100 needs to be installed on the main body of the 3D printing equipment. Specifically, the outer cylinder 110 is fixed to ensure the installation position of the outer cylinder 110 and to prevent the outer cylinder 110 from shifting during the printing process, which would affect the shape of the printed part in the forming cavity 140.

[0101] The positioning assembly 200 includes a fixed platform 210 and a clamping assembly. The fixed platform 210 is used to position and install the container assembly 100; the clamping assembly is used to clamp and fix the container assembly 100 onto the fixed platform 210. The fixed platform 210 is located on the frame, and the clamping assembly is located on the fixed platform 210. Of course, the clamping assembly can also be located on the frame, or directly or indirectly on the fixed platform 210.

[0102] The mounting platform 210 provides a standard position for the installation of the container assembly 100. The bottom of the container assembly 100 is mounted on the mounting platform 210, and the vent on the container assembly 100 is aligned vertically with the vent connector 310 on the limiting part 330. The clamping assembly clamps the container assembly 100 to prevent it from shaking.

[0103] like Figure 9 As shown, a positioning platform 211 is provided on the fixed platform 210 so that the bottom of the container assembly 100 can be positioned and installed in the positioning platform 211.

[0104] The shape and size of the positioning platform 211 roughly correspond to the shape and size of the outer cylinder 110. The outer cylinder 110 can be just fitted into the positioning platform 211. The inner side wall of the positioning platform 211 can form a stop on the outer side wall of the outer cylinder 110, thus playing a positioning role.

[0105] The bottom of the positioning platform 211 is provided with an upwardly protruding support platform 212. The support platform 212 is inserted into the bottom end of the container assembly 100, so that the light-transmitting membrane 111 is tautly supported on the surface of the support platform 212. Specifically, the support platform 212 is inserted into the cover 112, and the support platform 212 is inserted through the opening of the cover 112 to press against the light-transmitting membrane 111, so that it is tautly supported on the surface of the support platform 212. The height of the support platform 212 is not less than the height from the mounting end of the light-transmitting membrane 111 on the cover 112 to the bottom end. Preferably, the height of the support platform 212 is slightly higher than the height from the mounting end of the light-transmitting membrane 111 on the cover 112 to the bottom end. In this embodiment, the height of the support platform 212 is slightly higher than the height of the cover 112. The support platform 212 is provided with a light-transmitting hole and a light-transmitting support member 213 that seals the light-transmitting hole. The light-transmitting support member 213 abuts against the light-transmitting membrane 111 of the light-transmitting assembly, so that the light-transmitting membrane 111 is taut.

[0106] When the outer cylinder 110 descends into the positioning platform 211, the light-transmitting support 213 first contacts the light-transmitting film 111, and then the bottom of the outer cylinder 110 contacts the bottom surface of the positioning platform 211. The light-transmitting film 111 is then squeezed and tightened upwards, allowing light to directly enter the forming cavity 140, reducing reflection and refraction. It should be noted that the fixed platform 210 and the limiting part 330 are correspondingly arranged, and the container assembly 100 is installed between the fixed platform 210 and the limiting part 330.

[0107] In this embodiment, a cantilever storage groove is formed between the positioning platform 211 and the support platform 212. When the outer cylinder 110 is removed from the fixed platform 210, the drive unit can drive the cantilever to move along the first direction so that at least part of the cantilever (such as the air outlet connector 310, the sealing plate 321, the first positioning structure 331, etc.) is stored in the cantilever storage groove, thereby reducing the size of the whole machine in the first direction, which is beneficial to the miniaturization requirements of the whole machine.

[0108] refer to Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 This application also provides a locking device 10, installed on the aforementioned limiting mechanism 400, specifically on the cantilever 710. The locking device 10 may include a base 20, a drive assembly 30, a rotating part 40, and a latching assembly 50. In one possible implementation, the drive assembly 30 may be disposed on the base 20, while the rotating part 40 may be located between the drive assembly 30 and the base 20. The rotating part 40 may be driveably connected to the drive assembly 30, and is rotatably disposed on the base 20. Figure 3 As shown, the latching assembly 50 is rotatably connected to the outer surface of the base 20, and one end of the latching assembly 50 is in contact with the outer contour 41 of the rotating part 40.

[0109] It is understandable that the drive component 30 can drive the rotating part 40 to rotate. During the rotation of the rotating part 40, it can drive the buckle component 50 to rotate. During the rotation, the buckle component 50 can open or close, so that the buckle component 50 opens and closes with the rotation of the outer contour 41 of the rotating part 40, thereby realizing the locking or unlocking action.

[0110] Thus, the locking device 10 provided in this embodiment drives the rotating part 40 to rotate via the driving component 30, thereby pushing the latching component 50 to open and close, thereby achieving the locking or unlocking state of the platform component 730. Furthermore, the platform component 730 does not require magnetic components, reducing costs.

[0111] refer to Figure 12Based on the above embodiments, the outer contour 41 of the rotating part 40 may include a first contour 411 and a second contour 412. In one possible implementation, the number of first contours 411 and second contours 412 may each be two; this application embodiment does not impose a limitation. In this application embodiment, the two first contours 411 may be arranged opposite each other, and correspondingly, the two second contours 412 may be arranged opposite each other. The first contours 411 and second contours 412 are connected to form the outer contour 41 of the rotating part 40.

[0112] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, one of the first contour 411 and the second contour 412 protrudes along the radial direction of the rotating portion 40. In one possible implementation, the first contour 411 may protrude along the radial direction of the rotating portion 40. Alternatively, in another possible implementation, the second contour 412 may protrude along the radial direction of the rotating portion 40. The embodiments described in this application are not intended to be limiting.

[0113] In this embodiment, the first contour 411 protrudes radially along the rotating part 40 as an example. It is understood that when the rotating part 40 rotates until the first contour 411 contacts the latching assembly 50, the latching assembly 50 is in a closed state, thereby locking the platform assembly 730. Correspondingly, when the rotating part 40 rotates until the second contour 412 contacts the latching assembly 50, the latching assembly 50 is in an open state, thereby unlocking the platform assembly 730. Thus, the shapes of the first contour 411 and the second contour 412 can match the opening and closing trajectory of the latching assembly 50, allowing the latching assembly 50 to open and close through the rotational movement of the rotating part 40.

[0114] In one possible implementation, for example, the rotating part 40 can be a cam structure, but this application embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0115] refer to Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 Based on the above embodiments, the locking device 10 is installed on the cantilever 710. Specifically, the locking device 10 can be adapted to the positioning part 711 of the cantilever 710. The positioning part 711 can be axially engaged with the platform assembly 730, and the latching assembly 50 can be engaged with the platform assembly 730 when closed, thereby locking the platform assembly 730.

[0116] In one possible implementation, the base 20 may have a clearance area, the cantilever may have an air injection mechanism, and the positioning part may have a vent hole 712. It is understood that when the locking device 10 is installed on the positioning part 711, the clearance area can be used to allow the vent hole 712 on the positioning part 711 to communicate with the air injection mechanism on the cantilever 710.

[0117] Continue to refer to Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 Based on the above embodiments, exemplarily, the snap-fit ​​assembly 50 may include a male snap or a female snap. The snap-fit ​​assembly 50 may further include a hook member 51. In one possible implementation, the number of hook members 51 may be at least two; however, this application embodiment does not limit the number of hook members 51. In this application embodiment, two hook members 51 are used as an example. Figure 3 As shown, two hooks 51 are evenly distributed on the outer surface of the base 20 along the circumferential direction. Each hook 51 may have a force-receiving end 511 and a locking end 512. The force-receiving end 511 is used to contact the outer contour 41 of the rotating part, while the locking end 512 is used to engage with the platform assembly 730.

[0118] In the embodiments of this application, it is understood that when the force-receiving end 511 contacts the first contour 411, the locking end 512 is closed inward and in a locked state. Conversely, when the force-receiving end 511 contacts the second contour 412, the locking end 512 is open outward and in an unlocked state.

[0119] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, the base 20 may have a through hole 21, and the hook member 51 may have a first mounting groove 513. The through hole 21 may correspond to the first mounting groove 513. In one possible implementation, a rotating shaft 52 may be sequentially inserted through the first mounting groove 513 and the through hole 21, allowing the hook member 51 to rotate around the rotating shaft 52, thereby achieving a rotatable connection between the hook member 51 and the base 20 via the rotating shaft 52.

[0120] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, the locking device 10 may further include an elastic element 53. The elastic element 53 may be disposed between the base 20 and the hook element 51. In this embodiment, it is understood that the elastic element 53 can provide an inward elastic force to the force-bearing end 511, thereby causing the locking end 512 to tend to open.

[0121] Continue to refer to Figure 12Based on the above embodiments, in one possible implementation, the hook member 51 may also have a second mounting groove 514, and the base 20 may have a third mounting groove 22. It is understood that the second mounting groove 514 and the third mounting groove 22 are correspondingly provided. In this embodiment, the elastic member 53 may be disposed in the third mounting groove 22 of the base 20 and cooperate with the second mounting groove 514 on the hook member 51, thereby fixing the elastic member 53 between the base 20 and the hook member 51.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the elastic element 53 can be one of an elastic hoop, a spring, or a rubber component, and this application embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0123] When the elastic element 53 is a spring, the spring can be set in the third mounting groove 22 of the base 20. The two ends of the spring abut against the bottom wall of the third mounting groove 22 and the wall surface corresponding to the second mounting groove 514 of the hook element 51, thereby providing the hook element 51 with an elastic preload force perpendicular to the direction of the base 20.

[0124] When the elastic member 53 is an elastic hoop, at least a portion of the elastic hoop can be disposed in the second mounting groove 514 of the hook member 51, and rely on its own radial elastic tension to hold the wall of the second mounting groove 514, thereby providing radial fastening force for the hook member 51.

[0125] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, the drive assembly 30 may include a drive unit 31 and a transmission assembly 32. One end of the transmission assembly 32 may be connected to the drive unit 31, while the other end of the transmission assembly 32 may be connected to the rotating part 40, thereby connecting the drive unit 31 to the rotating part 40 via the transmission assembly 32. In one possible implementation, the drive unit 31 may be a motor; however, this embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0126] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, in one possible implementation, the transmission assembly 32 may further include a first transmission member 3211 and a second transmission member 3221, which are rotatably connected to the drive unit 31. In this embodiment, it is understood that the drive unit 31 can drive the first transmission member 3211 to rotate, thereby driving the second transmission member 3221 to rotate via the first transmission member 3211.

[0127] Continue to refer to Figure 12Based on the above embodiments, the rotating part 40 may also have a through hole 42. A third transmission member 421 may be provided on the wall of the through hole 42. In one possible implementation, the third transmission member 421 may be arranged circumferentially along the wall of the through hole 42. In this embodiment, the third transmission member 421 may be connected to the second transmission member 3221 for transmission. It is understood that after the driving part 31 drives the first transmission member 3211 to rotate, it drives the second transmission member 3221 to rotate, and then drives the entire rotating part 40 to rotate via the third transmission member 421.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the first transmission member 3211, the second transmission member 3221, and the third transmission member 421 can all be gear structures, and this application embodiment is not limited thereto. In this application embodiment, the first transmission member 3211 can be meshed with the second transmission member 3221, and the second transmission member 3221 can also be meshed with the third transmission member 421.

[0129] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, in one possible implementation, the third transmission member 421 can be rotatably connected to the base 20 via a bearing 43. In the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the rotating part 40 may be provided with a stepped part 44. It can be understood that the inner end of the bearing 43 can cooperate with the stepped part 44, while the outer end of the bearing 43 can cooperate with the base 20, so that the bearing 43 can be located between the rotating part 40 and the base 20, which facilitates the rotation of the rotating part 40.

[0130] Continue to refer to Figure 12 Based on the above embodiments, the locking device 10 may further include an adapter 600. In one possible implementation, the number of adapters 600 may be one or more, and this application embodiment does not impose a limitation. In this application embodiment, one end of the adapter 600 may pass through the through hole 42 of the rotating part 40 and be fixedly connected to the driving part 31. Additionally, the other end of the adapter 600 may be fixedly connected to the base 20.

[0131] refer to Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 In a second aspect, this application provides a printing device 700. The printing device 700 may include a cantilever 710 and the aforementioned locking device 10. In this application embodiment, it is understood that the locking device 10 can be used to achieve a locked or unlocked state of the platform component 730.

[0132] Continue to refer to Figure 15Based on the above embodiments, the locking device 10 can be fixedly installed on the cantilever 710. An air injection mechanism is provided inside the cantilever 710. A positioning part 711 is provided at the end of the cantilever 710. A vent 712 communicating with the air injection mechanism is provided on the positioning part 711.

[0133] In the embodiments of this application, it is understood that the locking device 10 can be used to lock and fix the platform assembly 730 to the cantilever 710 and ensure that the air injection mechanism on the cantilever 710 and the air vent 712 on the positioning part 711 are reliably connected.

[0134] In the embodiments of this application, it can be understood that the cantilever 710 moves up and down, and the platform component 730 is fixed by the locking device 10, so that the cantilever 710 drives the platform component 730 to move up and down synchronously.

[0135] The locking device 10 is disposed within the cantilever 710, the base 20 is mounted on the positioning part 711, and the hook member 51 extends beyond the positioning part 711, cooperating with the positioning part 711 to form a slot for the positioning platform assembly 730. The platform assembly 730 has a protrusion 731 at its end. In one possible embodiment, the platform assembly 730 has a protrusion 731 at the end facing the locking device 10, the protrusion 731 protruding outward laterally along the platform assembly 730, and the protrusion 731 is positioned within the slot. Alternatively, a slot can be provided in the platform assembly 730, and the hook member 51 can be positioned within the slot.

[0136] In the printing device 700, an integrated gas injection mechanism is provided to supply gas to the platform component 730. Specifically, the gas injection mechanism is built into the cantilever 710. The gas output end of the gas injection mechanism is guided to the positioning part 711 at the end of the cantilever 710.

[0137] A vent hole 712 is provided on the positioning part 711. This vent hole 712 serves as a gas outlet and is connected to the gas injection mechanism, thereby forming a complete and closed gas delivery path from the gas source to the interface. In one embodiment, the positioning part 711 is provided with a vent connector, and the vent hole 712 is provided on the vent connector, which is engaged with the air inlet interface.

[0138] When the locking device 10 securely locks the platform assembly 730 onto the cantilever 710, it simultaneously ensures that the corresponding air inlet on the platform assembly 730 and the vent hole 712 on the positioning part 711 of the cantilever 710 are precisely aligned and reliably sealed. This allows the gas from the gas injection mechanism to be delivered to the platform assembly 730 through the vent hole 712, and then to the printing cavity formed by the platform assembly 730 and the container assembly 100, to complete specific printing process steps.

[0139] Continue to refer to Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 This application provides a printing system 800 in a third aspect. The printing system 800 may include the aforementioned printing device 700, container assembly 100, and platform assembly 730. The platform assembly 730 is connected to the container assembly 100, and the locking device 10 of the printing device 700 is used to lock or unlock the platform assembly 730. In one possible implementation, one end of the platform assembly 730 is connected to the container assembly 100, and the other end of the platform assembly 730 cooperates with the positioning portion 711 of the cantilever 710.

[0140] Continue to refer to Figure 15 Based on the above embodiments, the platform assembly 730 has a protrusion 731 at its end. In one possible implementation, the platform assembly 730 has the protrusion 731 at the end facing the locking device 10. The protrusion 731 protrudes outwards laterally along the platform assembly 730, specifically, it protrudes radially along the platform assembly 730. Exemplarily, the protrusion 731 can be a flange eaves; this embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0141] Thus, in this embodiment, when the locking device 10 is in the locked state, the locking end 512 of the latching component 50 of the locking device 10 can engage with the protrusion 731 of the platform component 730, thereby locking it to the platform component 730. Correspondingly, when the locking device 10 is in the unlocked state, the locking end 512 of the latching component 50 of the locking device 10 can separate from the protrusion 731 of the platform component 730, thereby unlocking it to the platform component 730.

[0142] Continue to refer to Figure 14 Based on the above embodiments, the printing device 700 may further include a buffer 740. The buffer 740 may be fitted onto the cantilever 710. It is understood that the buffer 740 serves to provide an airtight seal and elasticity when the snap-fit ​​assembly 50 is engaged. In one possible implementation, the buffer 740 may be a rubber component; however, this embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0143] When the platform assembly 730 comes into contact with the cantilever 710, the drive part 31 in the locking device 10 starts to rotate, sequentially driving the first transmission member 3211, the second transmission member 3221, the third transmission member 421 and the rotating member to rotate. The first contour 411 of the rotating part 40 gradually comes into contact with the force-receiving end 511 of the hook member 51, causing the locking end 512 of the hook member 51 to tighten inward, and then engage with the protrusion 731 of the platform assembly 730, thereby locking the platform assembly 730.

[0144] The drive unit 31 in the locking device 10 continues to rotate, sequentially driving the first transmission member 3211, the second transmission member 3221, the third transmission member 421, and the rotating member to rotate. The second contour 412 of the rotating part 40 gradually comes into contact with the force-receiving end 511 of the hook member 51, and is subjected to the action of the elastic member 53, causing the force-receiving end 511 to close inward, thereby making the locking end 512 open, and thus unlocking the platform assembly 730.

[0145] In this embodiment, the platform component 730 can be connected to the container component 100. The printing process of the printing device 700 is as follows: the platform component 730 moves upward from the bottom of the container component 100, and reciprocates throughout the printing process. A thin layer of liquid resin is formed between the platform component 730 and the container component 100. Then, a light source passes through the container component 100, irradiating the liquid resin according to the slice pattern. The resin in the irradiated area cures and firmly adheres to the platform component 730 or the previously cured layer, achieving exposure curing. Next, the platform component 730 is lifted upward, separating the new cured layer from the bottom of the container component 100. After the platform component 730 is lifted, the liquid resin flows again, continuing to spread into a uniform thin layer. Finally, the above steps are repeated until the entire object is printed.

[0146] In one possible implementation, the container assembly 100 is a container assembly 100 containing resin. Of course, it can also be a container assembly 100 without resin. This application embodiment is not limited in this respect.

[0147] In this embodiment, the locking device 10 provides a method to drive the latching assembly 50 to rotate via the driving assembly 30, thereby pushing the latching assembly 50 to open or close, thus achieving the locking or unlocking state of the platform assembly 730. Furthermore, the platform assembly 730 does not require magnetic components, reducing costs.

[0148] like Figure 16As shown, the vent is encapsulated with aluminum foil and / or heat-shrink film. The cantilever moves towards the forming platform, causing a piercing element on the cantilever to puncture the encapsulation, allowing the inflation connector to engage with the vent. In this embodiment, the cantilever is fixedly connected to or abuts against the forming platform, and the cantilever and forming platform move synchronously. Of course, the inflation connector can also engage with the vent independently, without depending on the engagement state of the cantilever and forming platform. In this embodiment, controlling the cantilever to move toward the molding module specifically includes controlling the cantilever to move toward the molding module so that the piercing element on the cantilever pierces the encapsulation of the molding platform; controlling the cantilever to move toward the molding module so that the inflation connector on the cantilever is inserted and connected to the vent of the molding platform; controlling the cantilever to move toward the molding module so that the cantilever abuts against the molding platform; further including controlling the cantilever to move toward the molding module so that the cantilever abuts against the molding platform and the molding platform abuts against the light-transmitting component (the light-transmitting component is supported and tensioned by the printing device); controlling the clamp on the cantilever to clamp the molding platform to form a fixed connection while the cantilever is abutting against the molding platform; and performing zero-position detection while the molding platform is abutting against the light-transmitting component.

[0149] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A limiting mechanism (400), characterized in that, It includes a limiting part (330) and a driving part. The limiting part (330) includes a cantilever. The driving part is connected to the limiting part (330) and can drive the limiting part (330) to move.

2. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cantilever is provided with an air injection mechanism (300). The cantilever can abut against the container assembly (100) under the drive of the drive unit, and the air injection mechanism (300) is connected to the air vent of the container assembly (100).

3. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gas injection mechanism (300) includes a gas outlet connector (310), the outlet of which forms a gas outlet; an elastic sealing sleeve (320) is sleeved on the outside of the gas outlet connector (310), and when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly (100), the elastic sealing sleeve (320) is sealed and inserted into the vent.

4. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic sealing sleeve (320) includes a sleeve body, and a sealing piece (321) protruding outward is provided on the circumferential outer wall of the sleeve body; when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly (100), the sealing piece (321) abuts against the vent.

5. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the number of sealing pieces (321) is at least two.

6. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 5, characterized in that, Along the first direction, among two adjacent sealing pieces (321), the outer diameter of the sealing piece (321) closer to the interior of the container assembly (100) is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing piece (321) farther from the interior of the container assembly (100).

7. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first positioning structure (331) is provided on the surface of the limiting part (330) having the air outlet; a second positioning structure (1255) is correspondingly provided on the container assembly (100); when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly (100), the first positioning structure (331) and the second positioning structure (1255) cooperate to position the limiting part (330) and the container assembly (100) in a first direction and a first plane, wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the first direction.

8. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first positioning structure (331) includes a protrusion disposed on the bottom surface of the limiting part (330), and the second positioning structure (1255) includes a recess disposed on the container assembly (100); when the cantilever abuts against the container assembly (100), the protrusion is inserted into the recess.

9. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit includes a lead screw (410), a motor, and a slider (420). The motor is connected to the lead screw (410) to drive the lead screw (410) to rotate. The lead screw (410) is connected to the limiting part (330). The slider (420) is threadedly connected to the lead screw (410) and is used to fix it to the frame.

10. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a locking device mounted on the cantilever, the locking device being used to lock and fix the container assembly (100) to the cantilever.

11. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The locking device includes: Base (20); A drive assembly (30) is disposed on the base (20); A snap-fit ​​assembly (50) is rotatably connected to the outer surface of the base (20); The buckle assembly (50) is driven to rotate by the drive assembly (30) so that the buckle assembly (50) opens or closes during the rotation, thereby locking or unlocking the container assembly (100).

12. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The locking device further includes a rotating part (40), which is rotatably disposed on the base (20), the rotating part (40) is connected to the driving assembly (30) in a transmission manner, and the outer contour (41) of the rotating part (40) is in contact with one end of the buckle assembly (50); The outer contour (41) of the rotating part (40) includes two opposing first contours (411) and two opposing second contours (412), the first contours (411) and the second contours (412) are connected, and one of the first contours (411) and the second contours (412) protrudes along the radial direction of the rotating part (40); The shapes of the first contour (411) and the second contour (412) are matched with the opening and closing motion trajectory of the buckle assembly (50), and the buckle assembly (50) is opened and closed by the rotational motion of the rotating part (40).

13. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The locking device (10) is adapted to the positioning part (711) of the cantilever (710), the positioning part (711) is axially engaged with the container assembly (100), and the buckle assembly (50) is engaged with the container assembly (100) when closed, so as to lock the container assembly (100).

14. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The base (20) is provided with a clearance area. When the locking device is installed on the positioning part (711), the clearance area (21) is used to allow the vent hole (712) on the positioning part (711) to communicate with the air injection mechanism on the cantilever (710).

15. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The buckle assembly (50) includes at least two hooks (51), which are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the base (20). The hooks (51) have a force-receiving end (511) and a locking end (512). The force-receiving end (511) is in contact with the first contour (411), and the locking end (512) is in a locked state; The force-receiving end (511) is in contact with the second contour (412), and the locking end (512) is in the unlocked state.

16. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The container assembly (100) has a radially extending protrusion (731) at its end. When the locking device (10) is in the locked state, the locking end (512) of the buckle assembly (50) engages with the protrusion (731) of the container assembly (100) to lock the container assembly (100).

17. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 16, characterized in that, Also includes: An elastic element (53) is disposed between the base (20) and the hook (51), and the elastic element (53) is used to provide an elastic force in the inward direction of the force-bearing end (511).

18. The limiting mechanism (400) according to any one of claims 12-17, characterized in that, The drive assembly (30) includes a drive unit (31) and a transmission assembly (32). One end of the transmission assembly (32) is connected to the drive unit (31), and the other end of the transmission assembly (32) is connected to the rotating unit (40); The transmission assembly (32) includes a first transmission member (3211) and a second transmission member (3221). The first transmission member (3211) and the second transmission member (3221) are rotatably connected to the drive unit (31). The drive unit (31) drives the first transmission member (3211) to rotate, thereby driving the second transmission member (3221) to rotate.

19. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The rotating part (40) also has a through hole (42), and a third circumferential transmission member (421) is provided on the cavity wall of the through hole (42). The third transmission component (421) is connected to the second transmission component (3221) in a transmission connection.

20. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The third transmission component (421) is rotatably connected to the base (20) via a bearing (43); The rotating part (40) is provided with a stepped part (44), the inner end of the bearing (43) is engaged with the stepped part (44), and the outer end of the bearing (43) is engaged with the base (20).

21. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 20, characterized in that, Also includes: The adapter (600) has one end inserted through the through hole (42) of the rotating part (40) and fixedly connected to the driving part (31), and the other end of the adapter (600) is fixedly connected to the base (20).

22. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 10, characterized in that, An air injection mechanism is provided inside the cantilever (710), and a positioning part (711) is provided at the end of the cantilever (710). A vent (712) communicating with the air injection mechanism is provided on the positioning part (711). When the locking device (10) locks the container assembly (100) onto the cantilever (710), the vent (712) of the positioning part (711) is connected to the air inlet of the container assembly (100).

23. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The cantilever (710) moves up and down, and the container assembly (100) is fixed by the locking device (10). The cantilever (710) drives the container assembly (100) to move up and down synchronously.

24. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The vent is provided with a sealing element, which includes aluminum foil and / or heat shrink film.

25. The limiting mechanism (400) according to claim 24, characterized in that, The cantilever is provided with a piercing element for penetrating the encapsulation.

26. A printing system comprising a system host, a container assembly (100), and a limiting mechanism (400) as described in any one of claims 1-25.

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