Powder removal device

Abstract

A powder removal device according to one embodiment removes powder from a laminated molded article. The powder removing apparatus includes: a rotating drum having a processing chamber; and a holder that is disposed in the processing chamber and fixes the laminated molded object, the rotating drum being rotatable about a first axis, and the holder being attached to the rotating drum so as to rotate together with the rotating drum about the first axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a powder removal apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] The lamination apparatus repeatedly performs a process of selectively irradiating metal powder with a laser and melting and solidifying the metal powder to form a lamination of metal. Metal powder remaining outside the laser-irradiated area is retained in the lamination, and therefore needs to be removed after lamination.

[0003] As a technique for removing unbonded powder from a laminated object manufactured by a lamination molding method, a device described in known patent document 1 is described. This device includes: a chamber having an observation window and a glove cover; a rotating stage supporting the laminated object within the chamber; and a horizontal rotation device providing axial support for the rotating stage. The rotating stage vibrates the laminated object while rotating about both a horizontal and a vertical axis. As a result, the powder flows out from the interior of the laminated object, which has a complex internal structure, thus cleaning the laminated object.

[0004] Patent Document 1: German Utility Model No. 202016003042

[0005] As described above, in the device described in Patent Document 1, the rotating stage inside the chamber rotates around two axes, a horizontal axis and a vertical axis, while supporting the stacked model. Therefore, it is required that the chamber be sized to correspond to the rotation diameter of the stacked model. If the size of the chamber increases, the overall device becomes larger. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a powder removal device that can be miniaturized.

[0007] One method involves a powder removal apparatus that removes powder from a laminated molded object. The powder removal apparatus includes: a rotating drum having a processing chamber; and a retainer disposed in the processing chamber to hold the laminated molded object. The rotating drum is rotatable about a first axis, and the retainer is mounted on the rotating drum such that it rotates together with the rotating drum about the first axis.

[0008] According to various methods of this disclosure, the powder removal device can be miniaturized. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram representing a design system that includes a powder removal device.

[0010] Figure 2 (A), (B), and (C) are illustrations showing examples of the shapes of objects.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a powder removal apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the powder removal device.

[0013] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary back panel.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a side view of an exemplary rotating drum.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a front view of the powder removal device with the casing omitted.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a powder removal device.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a front view of the powder removal device with the casing omitted.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a front view of the powder removal device with the casing omitted.

[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0021] 1…Powder removal device; 3…Dust collector; 20…Rotating drum; 27…Outlet; 29…Discharge valve; 30…Cage; 40…Back panel; 40w…Window; 41…Gas port; 42…Dust collection port; 43…Exhaust port; 45…Exhaust pipe; 46…Diffuser valve; 48…Camera; 49…Nozzle; 50…Vibrator; 51…First vibrator; 52…Second vibrator (another vibrator); AX1…First axis; AX2…Second axis; M1…Shape (layered shape); M2…Powder; S…Processing chamber. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, the same or equivalent elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and descriptions will not be repeated. The scale of the drawings may not be consistent with the scale of the description. The terms "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used based on the illustrated states for ease of explanation.

[0023] [Overview of the styling system]

[0024] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram illustrating a design system comprising a powder removal apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 1 The modeling system 100 shown is used to model an object M1 as a layered model and remove powder M2 adhering to the model M1 after modeling. The model M1 is a three-dimensional model obtained by repeatedly sintering, melting, and solidifying the powder M2 as a raw material to form layers of two-dimensional shape. The powder M2 may contain, for example, metal. As an example, the metal may include stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or titanium.

[0025] The molding system 100 includes a powder removal device 1 and an auxiliary manufacturing device 2. The auxiliary manufacturing device 2 forms the molded object M1, for example, based on three-dimensional CAD data. The three-dimensional CAD data includes data on the cross-sectional shape of each layer. As an example, the auxiliary manufacturing device 2 repeatedly forms a film of a powdery raw material (an example of metal powder) containing metal on a metal plate P, such as stainless steel, using a scraper or the like, and forms two-dimensional layers by irradiating the film with a laser or the like, thereby forming a three-dimensional molded object M1. The molded object M1, with unsintered or unmelted powder M2 attached, is removed from the auxiliary manufacturing device 2 along with the plate P.

[0026] Figure 2 Figures (A) to (C) are examples of shapes M1 manufactured by the additional manufacturing device 2. In layered molding, lightweight components are often achieved by utilizing manufacturing methods with this characteristic to create shapes with internal spaces. Figure 2 The shape shown in (A) has tiny pores formed on its surface. Figure 2 The shape shown in (B) has multiple holes formed from six directions. Figure 3 The object shown in (C) has a complex internal structure. Figure 3 The shapes shown in (A) to (C) sometimes cannot be adequately powdered using existing powder removal methods, such as blowing gas. For example, Figure 2 The shape shown in (A) is not a through hole (blind hole), so it is difficult to remove the powder completely by blowing gas. The powder removal device 1 applies vibration based on setting the shape in an arbitrary position, thereby removing the powder M2 from the shape M1 which has a complex shape.

[0027] The molded object M1, along with the board P, is transported to the powder removal device 1 using a forklift or similar handling device. The powder removal device 1 removes the powder M2 adhering to the surface or interior of the molded object M1, which was molded in the auxiliary manufacturing device 2. More specifically, the molded object M1 is fixed within the powder removal device 1 to a holder 30 (described later) and positioned in an orientation corresponding to the structure of the molded object M1. Then, vibration is applied to the molded object M1, separating and removing the powder M2 adhering to its surface or interior. Details of the interior of the processing chamber S will be described later. The molded object M1, with the powder M2 removed, is then removed from the powder removal device 1 using a handling device.

[0028] The powder M2 removed by the powder removal device 1 is recycled to the recycling container C. Alternatively, an inert gas can be sealed in the recycling container C to prevent oxidation of the powder M2. The powder M2 contained in the recycling container C can also be reused as raw material for the molded object M1 in the auxiliary manufacturing device 2.

[0029] In one embodiment, the modeling system 100 also includes a dust collector 3. The dust collector 3 is connected to the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 via a dust collection pipe 3a. The dust collector 3, for example, includes a filter for removing dust, and collects dust contained in the gas inside the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1. The dust collector 3 discharges the gas that has passed through the filter to the outside of the dust collector 3. The operation of the dust collector 3 can also be performed according to the dust condition inside the processing chamber S. For example, a dust sensor can be installed inside the processing chamber S, and the dust collector 3 can operate when the detection value of the dust sensor exceeds a threshold. This reduces excessive operation of the dust collector 3.

[0030] During the operation of the dust collector 3, powder M2 separated from the model M1 is dispersed inside the processing chamber S. If the oxygen concentration inside the processing chamber S is high, there is a possibility of a dust explosion. Therefore, the modeling system 100 also includes a gas supply unit 4 for supplying inert gas to the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1. The gas supply unit 4 is connected to the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 via a gas pipe 4a. The gas supply unit 4 includes a gas source 5 and a valve 6. The gas source 5 supplies inert gas to the gas pipe 4a. The inert gas is, for example, nitrogen or argon. The inert gas supplied from the gas source 5 is introduced into the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 via the gas pipe 4a. The valve 6 is provided on the gas pipe 4a to control the flow rate of the inert gas supplied to the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1.

[0031] If the oxygen concentration in the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 is reduced to below 10%, a dust explosion is less likely to occur. Therefore, the oxygen concentration in the processing chamber S is adjusted to below 10% during operation of the powder removal device 1. The oxygen concentration in the processing chamber S during operation of the powder removal device 1 can also be set to below 5%. Furthermore, by setting the oxygen concentration to below 10%, the possibility of powder M2 oxidizing and becoming unusable within the processing chamber S is avoided. Additionally, by setting the processing chamber S to a non-reactive gas environment, the additional sealing process for sealing the non-reactive gas into the recovery container C is eliminated.

[0032] The exhaust gas from the dust collector 3 can also return to the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 via pipe 3b. That is, the dust collector 3 circulates the gas (air or inactive gas) in the processing chamber S. As a result, the amount of inactive gas supplied to ensure the oxygen concentration in the processing chamber S can be suppressed.

[0033] In addition, Figure 1 In the illustration, the dust collector 3 and the gas supply unit 4 are shown as separate devices from the powder removal device 1. However, in one embodiment, the powder removal device 1 may also include at least one of the dust collector 3 and the gas supply unit 4.

[0034] The powder removal device 1 includes a control unit 8 that operates the aforementioned structural elements. The control unit 8 may be configured as, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). Alternatively, the control unit 8 may be configured as a computer system including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), input / output devices such as a touch panel, mouse, keyboard, and display, and communication devices such as a network card. Under the control of the processor based on a computer program stored in memory, the control unit 8 operates each piece of hardware, thereby automating the operation of the powder removal device 1. For example, the control unit 8 sends control signals to the powder removal device 1, the dust collector 3, and the valve 6, thereby controlling the operation of the powder removal device 1, the dust collector 3, and the valve 6.

[0035] [Details of the powder removal device]

[0036] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a powder removal apparatus 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the powder removal device 1. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4The sectional view along line AA. Furthermore, in the following description, the three mutually orthogonal axes will be referred to as the "X direction," "Y direction," and "Z direction." The X and Y directions are mutually perpendicular horizontal directions, and the Z direction is a vertical direction. In the following description, one side of the Y direction may sometimes be referred to as "front," and the other side as "rear."

[0037] like Figure 3 As shown, the powder removal device 1 includes a housing 10, a rotating drum 20, and a retainer 30. The housing 10 houses the rotating drum 20 and the retainer 30 inside. An opening and closing door 11 for the molded object M1 to enter and exit is provided at the front of the housing 10. A window 12 for visually confirming the interior of the housing 10 may also be provided in the opening and closing door 11.

[0038] The housing 10 does not have an opening for placing a hand inside the housing 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent accidents where a hand is caught in the rotating body inside the housing 10 when a hand is placed inside the housing 10 for cleaning or other purposes.

[0039] Additionally, a discharge door 13 is provided at the lower part of the housing 10. The discharge door 13 can slide in the Y direction by activating an actuator 14 such as a cylinder. By placing the recovery container C on the discharge door 13 and sliding the discharge door 13 rearward, the recovery container C is housed in the receiving space 10s within the housing 10. Figure 4 As shown, the containment space 10s is located below the rotating drum 20.

[0040] The rotating roller 20 is disposed inside the housing 10. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the rotating roller 20 is cylindrical, with a processing chamber S divided within it. The rotating roller 20 is supported within the housing 10 in a manner rotatable about a first axis AX1 extending in the Y direction. The rotating roller 20 has a front opening 21 facing forward and a rear opening 22 facing backward. The rotating roller 20 has a cover 23 for opening and closing the front opening 21. By opening the door 11 and the cover 23, the model M1 can be moved into the processing chamber S. By closing the cover 23, the processing chamber S is closed from the front.

[0041] The powder removal device 1 includes a back panel 40 for covering the rear opening 22. The back panel 40 is fixed to the housing 10 and does not rotate relative to the housing 10. In other words, the rotating drum 20 rotates relative to the back panel 40. The back panel 40 contacts the edge of the rear opening 22 of the rotating drum 20 via a sealing member such as an oil seal. As a result, the processing chamber S is closed from the rear.

[0042] In one implementation, such as Figure 5As shown, the back panel 40 has a gas hole 41 for supplying inert gas to the processing chamber S. The gas hole 41 is an opening that penetrates the back panel 40 along its thickness direction and is connected to a gas pipe 4a. Inert gas from the gas source 5 is supplied to the processing chamber S through the gas pipe 4a and the gas hole 41. In another embodiment, the back panel 40 has a dust collection hole 42 for discharging powder M2 from the processing chamber S to the outside. The dust collection hole 42 is an opening that penetrates the back panel 40 along its thickness direction and is connected to a dust collection pipe 3a. When the dust collector 3 is operating, the powder M2 scattered in the processing chamber S, along with the gas (e.g., inert gas) in the processing chamber S, is sent to the dust collector 3 through the dust collection hole 42 and the dust collection pipe 3a. The powder M2 sent to the dust collector 3 is captured by the filter of the dust collector 3.

[0043] In one implementation, such as Figure 5 As shown, the back panel 40 also has an exhaust port 43. The exhaust port 43 is connected to an exhaust pipe 45. The exhaust pipe 45 discharges the gas in the processing chamber S to the outside. The powder removal device 1 may also include a diffusion valve 46, which is used to release the gas in the processing chamber S to the outside via the exhaust pipe 45 when the pressure in the processing chamber S exceeds a reference value (see reference). Figure 4 The diffusion valve 46 automatically opens, for example, when the pressure in the processing chamber S rises excessively due to a dust explosion, and releases the excess pressure to the outside, thereby preventing damage to the powder removal device 1.

[0044] In one embodiment, the powder removal device 1 may also include a camera 48 for photographing the interior of the processing chamber S. For example, the camera 48 is fixed to the outside of the back panel 40. Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary back panel 40. (As shown) Figure 6 As shown, the back panel 40 may also have a light-transmitting window 40w. The window 40w may be made of a transparent resin material such as polycarbonate or acrylic resin. Figure 6 As shown, camera 48 is positioned outside the processing chamber S and captures images of the interior of the processing chamber S through window 40w. Camera 48 may also be equipped with illumination to project light into the interior of the processing chamber S.

[0045] A nozzle 49 for spraying gas toward the window 40w can also be installed inside the processing chamber S. By spraying gas toward the window 40w, dust and other particles adhering to the powder M2 on the window 40w are removed, preventing obstruction of photography within the processing chamber S based on the camera 48. Furthermore, the nozzle 49 can also spray inactive gas toward the window 40w, for example.

[0046] Figure 7This is a side view of an exemplary rotating roller 20. The rotating roller 20 is capable of rotating about a first axis AX1 extending in the Y direction. For example, the rotating roller 20 includes a drive device that generates driving force and a transmission mechanism that transmits driving force. As a transmission mechanism, for example, a belt that transmits the rotation of the drive device to the rotating roller 20 is used. If the rotational force is transmitted to the rotating roller 20 by the drive of the drive device, the rotating roller 20 rotates about the first axis AX1. The operation of the drive device is controlled by the control unit 8.

[0047] Additionally, a discharge port 27 for discharging powder M2 from the processing chamber S is formed on the peripheral wall 20a of the rotating drum 20. A hopper 28 for guiding powder M2 to the discharge port 27 is connected to the discharge port 27. A discharge valve 29 for opening and closing the discharge port 27 is provided at the discharge port 27. The discharge valve 29 is, for example, a butterfly valve. When the rotating drum 20 rotates about the first axis AX1 and the discharge port 27 is configured downwards, the discharge port 27 is positioned opposite the recovery container C configured in the receiving space 10s. If the discharge valve 29 is opened in this state, powder M2 is discharged from the discharge port 27 and recovered into the recovery container C.

[0048] A sieve can also be installed at the discharge port 27 of the powder removal device 1. The sieve classifies the discharged powder M2. In the auxiliary manufacturing device 2, particles (splatter) larger than the powder used as raw material may be generated during the lamination molding process. The powder used as raw material has an average size of about 10 μm to 50 μm. Particles larger than 100 μm are difficult to melt and may get caught between the scraper and the top surface of the molded object during the film application process in the auxiliary manufacturing device 2, affecting the lamination molding. The sieve removes the splatter that cannot be reused. Thus, powder of a reusable size is recycled. The sieve may also be equipped with a mechanism that vibrates using ultrasound or the like.

[0049] Figure 8 A front view of the powder removal device 1 is shown. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, in... Figure 8 In the diagram, the casing 10 is omitted. Figure 8 As shown, the retainer 30 is mounted on the peripheral wall 20a of the rotating drum 20 and disposed in the processing chamber S. Therefore, the retainer 30 rotates together with the rotating drum 20 about the first axis AX1 when the rotating drum rotates about the first axis AX1. As will be described later, the retainer 30 is a rotary table capable of rotating about a second axis AX2 that intersects the first axis AX1.

[0050] A retainer 30 secures the molded object M1 within the processing chamber S. The retainer 30 includes a first component 31, a second component 32, and an elastic body 33. The first component 31 includes a main body 31a, a rotating shaft 31b, and a pair of flanges 31c. The main body 31a is, for example, a metal plate. The rotating shaft 31b is connected to the central portion of the main body 31a. The rotating shaft 31b extends along a second axis AX2 perpendicular to the first axis AX1 and is supported on the rotating roller 20 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the second axis AX2. Figure 4 As shown, the rotating shaft 31b passes through the peripheral wall 20a of the rotating roller 20 and extends to the outer side of the rotating roller 20. A drive device 35 is provided on the outer side of the rotating roller 20. The drive device 35 is, for example, an electric motor. The operation of the drive device 35 is controlled by the control unit 8. When the drive device 35 is driven, the driving force is transmitted to the rotating shaft 31b, and the holder 30 rotates together with the model M1 around the second axis AX2.

[0051] A pair of flange portions 31c are erected from both ends of the main body portion 31a toward the second component 32. Each of the pair of flange portions 31c includes: a base end portion 31c1 extending in a direction parallel to the second axis AX2, and a front end portion 31c2 extending from the base end portion 31c1 in a direction perpendicular to the first axis AX1 and the second axis AX2. The front end portion 31c2 of the pair of flange portions 31c is opposite to the main body portion 31a. That is, each of the pair of flange portions 31c has a generally L-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0052] The second component 32 includes a main body 32a and a pair of protrusions 32b. The main body 32a is, for example, a metal plate, and is disposed on the first component 31. The pair of protrusions 32b protrude from the main body 32a in a direction perpendicular to the first axis AX1 and the second axis AX2, and are respectively disposed between the main body 31a and the front end portion 31c2 of the pair of flange portions 31c. The placement of the pair of protrusions 32b between the main body 31a and the front end portion 31c2 of the pair of flange portions 31c prevents the first component 31 and the second component 32 from separating when the rotating roller 20 rotates about the first axis AX1.

[0053] The elastomer 33 is disposed between the first component 31 and the second component 32. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, elastic bodies 33 are respectively provided between the main body 31a and a pair of protrusions 32b, and between the pair of protrusions 32b and the front ends 31c2 of a pair of flanges 31c. That is, the first component 31 supports the second component 32 via a plurality of elastic bodies 33.

[0054] The plate P, which is moved into the processing chamber S, is fixed to the second component 32 by fasteners such as bolts or clamps. Thus, the decorative element M1 disposed on the plate P is fixed to the retainer 30. Furthermore, a component for positioning the plate P in its fixed position may also be provided in the second component 32.

[0055] In addition, the powder removal device 1 also includes one or more vibrators 50 that apply vibration to the molded object M1 fixed to the holder 30. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the powder removal apparatus 1 includes a first vibrator 51 and a second vibrator 52 (another vibrator) as vibrator 50. As an example, the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52 are ultrasonic vibration devices, ball oscillators, relay-type percussion devices, vibration motors, or piston oscillators. In one embodiment, the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52 apply vibrations to the molded object M1 in mutually different directions. For example, the first vibrator 51 is fixed to the second component 32 of the holder 30 and applies vibration to the second component 32 in the width direction (perpendicular to the first axis AX1 and the second axis AX2). On the other hand, the second vibrator 52 is fixed to the second component 32 of the holder 30 and applies vibration to the second component 32 in the thickness direction (parallel to the second axis AX2). Thus, vibrations are applied to the plate P in different directions, resulting in vibration of the molded object M1 from any direction. Therefore, the efficiency of powder removal is improved.

[0056] [Operation of the powder removal device]

[0057] Next, refer to Figure 9 The operation of the powder removal device 1 will be explained. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the powder removal device 1. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the manufactured model M1 is first removed from the auxiliary manufacturing device 2, and the model M1 and the plate P are moved together into the processing chamber S of the powder removal device 1 (step ST1).

[0058] Next, plate P is fastened to holder 30 with bolts or the like, thereby fixing the molded object M1 to holder 30 (step ST2). Next, inactive gas is supplied to processing chamber S (step ST3). For this purpose, control unit 8 controls valve 6 to supply inactive gas from gas source 5 to processing chamber S. At this time, inactive gas is continuously supplied to processing chamber S until the oxygen concentration in processing chamber S becomes 10% or less or 5% or less. When the oxygen concentration in processing chamber S becomes 10% or less or 5% or less, the supply of inactive gas from gas source 5 is stopped.

[0059] Next, the rotating roller 20 is rotated about the first axis AX1 (step ST4). To rotate the rotating roller 20, the control unit 8 controls the operation of the drive device 25. Next, the retainer 30 is rotated about the second axis AX2 (step ST5). To rotate the retainer 30, the control unit 8 controls the operation of the drive device 35. In steps ST4 and ST5, the rotation angles of the rotating roller 20 about the first axis AX1 and the rotation angles of the retainer 30 about the second axis AX2 are adjusted so that the orientation of the molded object M1 is such that the powder M2 can easily fall from the molded object M1. For example, the rotation angles of the rotating roller 20 and the retainer 30 are adjusted so that the opening formed on the molded object M1 faces downwards. Figure 10 The powder removal device 1 is shown with the rotation angle of the rotating drum 20 and the holder 30 adjusted.

[0060] Next, with the pose of the model M1 changed, vibration is applied to the model M1 using the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52 (step ST6). At this time, the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52 can also apply vibrations to the model M1 in different directions. To activate the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52, the control unit 8 sends control signals to them. By applying vibration to the model M1, powder M2 adhering to the surface or interior of the model M1 falls off and is removed.

[0061] Here, the rotation angle of the rotating drum 20 around the first axis AX1, the rotation angle of the cage 30 around the second axis AX2, and the operation of the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator can also be controlled via the touch panel 15 (see reference) connected to the operator operation and control unit 8. Figure 1 Alternatively, it can be operated manually using the control controller. Furthermore, a series of actions performed based on the aforementioned manual operation can be stored as a program in the control unit 8, and the same actions according to the program can be repeatedly reproduced.

[0062] In one embodiment, steps ST4 to ST6 can be performed repeatedly, in which the posture of the model M1 is changed sequentially while vibration is applied to the model M1 to remove the powder M2 from the model M1. Alternatively, steps ST4 to ST6 can be performed simultaneously.

[0063] Next, the dust collector 3 is activated (step ST7). As a result, the dust from the powder M2 that flies in the processing chamber S when the model M1 is vibrated is collected by the dust collector 3. Next, the powder M2 removed from the model M1 is recovered (step ST8). For example, as... Figure 11As shown, the discharge port 27 of the rotating drum 20 is positioned opposite the recycling container C, and the discharge valve 29 is opened. For this purpose, the control unit 8 sends control signals to the drive unit 25 and the discharge valve 29. Thus, the powder M2 removed from the molded object M1 is recycled back into the recycling container C.

[0064] Next, the inactive gas is discharged from the processing chamber S (step ST9). To discharge the inactive gas, for example, an exhaust valve (not shown) formed in the rotating drum 20 is opened, activating the dust collector 3. Atmosphere flows into the processing chamber S from the exhaust valve due to the suction force of the dust collector 3, thereby replacing the environment of the processing chamber S with atmospheric air. Next, the opening and closing door 11 of the housing 10 and the cover 23 of the rotating drum 20 are opened, releasing the plate P from the holder 30. Then, the molded object M1, from which the powder M2 has been removed, is removed from the processing chamber S (step ST10).

[0065] As explained above, in the powder removal device 1, the rotating drum 20 can rotate about the first axis AX1, and the holder 30 can rotate about the second axis AX2, which is perpendicular to the first axis AX1. Therefore, the posture of the molded object M1 fixed to the holder 30 can be arbitrarily changed. Furthermore, the molded object M1 fixed to the holder 30 is vibrated by the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52. Therefore, the powder removal device 1 can be used to position the molded object M1 so that the powder M2 can fall off easily. Thus, even... Figure 2 The powder removal device 1 can also properly remove the powder M2 adhering to the molded object M1, which has a complex structure on the surface or inside as shown in (A) to (C).

[0066] Furthermore, in the powder removal device 1, the retainer 30 is mounted on the rotating drum 20 and rotates together with the rotating drum 20 about a first axis. That is, when the posture of the molded object M1 is changed about the first axis AX1, the molded object M1 does not rotate relative to the rotating drum 20, thus preventing the molded object M1 from contacting the rotating drum 20. Therefore, the processing chamber S can be designed to be smaller, and the powder removal device 1 can be miniaturized.

[0067] Furthermore, in the powder removal device 1, the retainer 30 rotates around an axis inside the rotating drum 20, thus simplifying the construction of the retainer 30. This reduces the number of structures within the processing chamber S and decreases the hassle of cleaning the processing chamber S by cleaning the rotating drum 20.

[0068] The powder removal apparatus 1 according to various embodiments has been described above, but it is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention without changing the spirit of the invention. That is, it should be noted that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0069] For example, in the above embodiment, the molded object M1 and the plate P are fixed to the retainer 30 by fixing the plate P to the retainer 30, but the retainer 30 can also directly fix the molded object M1. That is, the retainer 30 can directly or indirectly fix the molded object M1. In addition, the powder removal device 1 may have only one of the first vibrator 51 and the second vibrator 52, or it may have three or more vibrators.

[0070] Powder M2 may not contain metal. For example, powder M2 may be resin powder. Powder removal device 1 may also lack dust collector 3, gas supply unit 4, and nozzle 49. Part or all of the operation of powder removal device 1 may be performed by control unit 8 or by operators. An oxygen sensor may also be installed in the processing chamber S, and powder removal device 1 may stop operating based on the detection value of the oxygen sensor. Thus, powder removal device 1 can stop powder removal processing in case of abnormalities such as atmospheric suction, thereby enabling safer processing. When using powder M2 that has the property of not causing dust explosion even in the presence of an ignition source, the gas supplied to processing chamber S is not limited to inert gas, and may also be compressed air supplied by a compressor or the like.

[0071] [The forms included in this disclosure]

[0072] This disclosure includes the forms described in the following terms.

[0073] (Clause 1)

[0074] The powder removal apparatus disclosed herein removes powder from a laminated molded object. One aspect of this powder removal apparatus removes powder from the laminated molded object. This powder removal apparatus includes: a rotating drum having a processing chamber; and a retainer disposed in the processing chamber to hold the laminated molded object. The rotating drum is rotatable about a first axis, and the retainer is mounted on the rotating drum such that it rotates together with the rotating drum about the first axis. In this powder removal apparatus, the retainer is mounted on the rotating drum and rotates together with the rotating drum about the first axis. That is, when the posture of the molded object is changed about the first axis, the molded object does not rotate relative to the rotating drum, preventing the molded object from contacting the rotating drum. Therefore, the processing chamber can be designed to be smaller, and the powder removal apparatus can be miniaturized.

[0075] (Clause 2)

[0076] The powder removal device described in Clause 1 may also include a vibrator that applies vibration to the stacked molded object fixed to the aforementioned holder. In this case, the vibration of the vibrator can shake the powder off the molded object.

[0077] (Clause 3)

[0078] In the powder removal apparatus described in Clause 1 or 2, the aforementioned retainer may also be rotatable about a second axis intersecting the first axis. In this powder removal apparatus, the rotating drum can rotate about the first axis, and the retainer can rotate about the second axis, thus allowing for arbitrary changes to the posture of the molded object fixed to the retainer. Therefore, the molded object can be positioned in a way that facilitates powder falling, allowing the powder to be shaken off. Consequently, even molded objects with complex structures can have the powder adhering to them properly removed using the powder removal apparatus.

[0079] (Clause 4)

[0080] In any of the powder removal apparatuses described in clauses 1 to 3, the rotating drum may have a rear opening, and the powder removal apparatus may have a non-rotating back panel covering the rear opening, the back panel having gas holes for supplying inert gas to the processing chamber. Alternatively, the rotating drum may have a rear opening, and the powder removal apparatus may have a non-rotating back panel covering the rear opening. The non-rotating back panel prevents the piping connected to the back panel from becoming entangled when the rotating drum rotates. Furthermore, by supplying inert gas to the processing chamber, the possibility of dust explosions can be reduced even if static electricity or other ignition sources are generated in the state of powder dispersion. Additionally, by supplying inert gas to the processing chamber, powder oxidation can be suppressed, thus allowing the recovered powder to be reused as raw material for laminated moldings.

[0081] (Clause 5)

[0082] In the powder removal apparatus described in Clause 4, the aforementioned back panel may also have dust collection holes connected to a dust collector. By having dust collection holes connected to a dust collector, dust flying in the processing chamber can be removed.

[0083] (Clause 6)

[0084] In the powder removal apparatus described in Clause 4 or 5, the back panel may have an exhaust port connected to an exhaust pipe, and the powder removal apparatus may also include a diffusion valve for releasing gas from the processing chamber to the outside via the exhaust pipe when the pressure inside the processing chamber exceeds a reference value. By including a diffusion valve, when the pressure inside the processing chamber becomes too high due to dust explosions or the like, the pressure can be released to the outside, thereby preventing damage to the powder removal apparatus.

[0085] (Clause 7)

[0086] In any of the powder removal apparatuses described in clauses 1 to 6, the rotating drum may have a discharge port for discharging the powder from the processing chamber, and the powder removal apparatus may also include a discharge valve for opening and closing the discharge port. In this case, the powder removed from the laminated molded object can be discharged from the discharge port.

[0087] (Clause 8)

[0088] In any of the powder removal devices described in clauses 1 to 7, the aforementioned retainer may also include: a first component, a second component supporting the stacked molded object, and an elastic body disposed between the first component and the second component. By including the elastic body, vibrations based on a vibrator fixed to the retainer can be efficiently applied to the stacked molded object, which is also fixed to the retainer.

[0089] (Clause 9)

[0090] In any of the powder removal devices described in clauses 2 to 8, there may also be another vibrator different from the vibrator described above, which applies vibrations to the stacked molded object in mutually different directions. In this powder removal device, the molded object can be vibrated from any direction, thus effectively shaking off the powder.

[0091] (Clause 10)

[0092] In any of the powder removal apparatuses described in clauses 4 to 9, a camera for photographing the interior of the processing chamber may also be included. The back panel has a light-transmitting window, and the camera is positioned outside the processing chamber so as to photograph the interior of the processing chamber through the window. By photographing the interior of the processing chamber with the camera, the posture of the stacked model can be changed while checking the powder removal status. This allows for effective powder removal. Furthermore, by positioning the camera outside the processing chamber, damage to the camera can be prevented.

[0093] (Clause 11)

[0094] The powder removal device described in Clause 10 may also include a nozzle installed in the processing chamber and spraying gas toward the window. By spraying gas toward the window, powder adhering to the window can be removed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent photography in the processing chamber from being obstructed by dirt on the window.

Claims

1. A powder removal device for removing powder from a stacked molded object, characterized in that, have: Rotating drum with a processing chamber; and A retainer, disposed in the processing chamber, secures the stacked model. The rotating drum is capable of rotating about a first axis. The retainer is mounted on the rotating drum in such a way that it rotates together with the rotating drum about the first axis.

2. The powder removal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a vibrator that applies vibration to the stacked shape fixed to the holder.

3. The powder removal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cage is capable of rotating about a second axis that intersects the first axis.

4. The powder removal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating drum has a rear opening. The powder removal device has a non-rotating back panel that covers the rear opening. The back panel has gas holes for supplying inactive gas to the processing chamber.

5. The powder removal device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The back panel has dust collection holes that connect to the dust collector.

6. The powder removal device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The back panel has an exhaust port that connects to the exhaust pipe. The powder removal device also includes a diffusion valve, which is used to release the gas in the processing chamber to the outside through the exhaust pipe when the pressure in the processing chamber exceeds a reference value.

7. The powder removal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating drum has a discharge port for discharging the powder from the processing chamber. The powder removal device also includes a discharge valve for opening and closing the discharge port.

8. The powder removal device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retainer includes: a first component, a second component supporting the stacked structure, and an elastic body disposed between the first component and the second component.

9. The powder removal device according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also has another vibrator, different from the vibrator mentioned above. The vibrator and the other vibrator apply vibrations in different directions to the stacked structure.

10. The powder removal device according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a camera for photographing the interior of the processing room. The back panel has a light-transmitting window. The camera is positioned outside the processing room so as to photograph the interior of the processing room through the window.

11. The powder removal apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also has a nozzle installed in the processing chamber and spraying gas toward the window.

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