Method for 3d printing of color objects and three-dimensional printer

Abstract

The application provides a 3D printing method of a color object and a three-dimensional printer, and relates to the field of three-dimensional printers. The 3D printing method of the color object is completed by the three-dimensional printer, and the three-dimensional printer comprises a printing nozzle, an inkjet nozzle and a plasma head module. The 3D printing method of the color object comprises the following steps: when a printing instruction is received, the printing nozzle is triggered to start, and the printing nozzle is controlled to run printing on one or more printing layers according to a first preset route; when a coloring instruction is received, the plasma head module is triggered to start, and the plasma head module is controlled to run plasma treatment on a coloring area of the printing layer according to a second preset route; the inkjet nozzle is triggered to start, and the inkjet nozzle is controlled to perform inkjet coloring on the coloring area after the plasma treatment according to a third preset route. The 3D printing method of the color object provided by the application solves the technical problem of poor coloring effect of a model in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of 3D printers, and more specifically, to a method for 3D printing colored objects and a 3D printer. Background Technology

[0002] In current FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) color printing technology, white material is typically used to print objects, and then the corresponding color is sprayed on after each layer is printed to achieve a model with accurate printing colors.

[0003] Then, the consumables used in FDM printing are mostly polymer materials. When using various inks to color the model surface, due to the smooth and dense surface of the model and the physical properties of the ink, the ink usually has poor adhesion and is easily wiped off; there may even be problems such as uneven dispersion of ink on the model surface, forming uneven spots or failure to cover, resulting in coloring failure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a 3D printing method and a 3D printer for colored objects, so as to alleviate the technical problem of poor model coloring effect in the prior art.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution provided by the present invention is as follows: In a first aspect, the 3D printing method for colored objects provided by the present invention is completed by a 3D printer, the 3D printer including a print head, an inkjet print head, and a plasma head module; the method includes: When a print command is received, the print head is triggered to start and controlled to run along a first preset route to print one or more print layers. When a coloring instruction is received, the plasma head module is triggered to start and is controlled to run along the second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing; the inkjet printhead is triggered to start and is controlled to perform inkjet coloring in the area to be colored after plasma processing along the third preset route.

[0006] Furthermore, controlling the plasma head module to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing includes: The plasma head module is controlled to operate at a first preset speed.

[0007] Furthermore, the inkjet printhead can be connected to an ink tank storing ink via tubing, and the plasma head module can be controlled to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing, including: The power of the plasma head module is controlled according to the printing material and the material of the ink.

[0008] Furthermore, the plasma head module has a fan, and controlling the plasma head module to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing includes: The fan speed is controlled according to the printing material and the material of the ink.

[0009] Secondly, the 3D printer provided by the present invention includes a print head, an inkjet print head, a plasma head module, a print head dock, and a drive mechanism. The printhead, inkjet printhead, and plasma head module are detachably mounted on the printhead dock, and the drive mechanism is optionally releasably connected to one of the printhead, inkjet printhead, and plasma head module.

[0010] Furthermore, the printing nozzle is a nozzle formed by fused deposition modeling; the plasma head module includes a plasma head body, which includes an air inlet area, an excitation area, and an air outlet, with the excitation area located between the air inlet area and the air outlet.

[0011] Furthermore, the plasma head body includes an outer cover, a control board, and a connector, an external piezoelectric module, and an internal piezoelectric electrode installed inside the outer cover; The top of the outer cover is the air inlet area, and the bottom is provided with the air outlet; The connector is installed below the air intake area and above the external piezoelectric module. One end of the internal piezoelectric electrode is connected to the connector, and the other end passes through the external piezoelectric module and extends into the air outlet. The excitation region is formed between the connector, the external piezoelectric module, and the internal piezoelectric electrode; The control board is installed on the outside of the outer casing and is signal-connected to the connector.

[0012] Furthermore, the plasma head module includes a housing, a fan, and control cables. The housing, the fan, and the control board are all installed inside the housing. The top of the housing is provided with an air inlet, which is connected to the air intake area. The fan is located between the air inlet and the air intake area; The control cable passes through the housing and extends into the interior of the housing.

[0013] Furthermore, the outer casing includes a first housing and a second housing, the first housing being snapped into the second housing, and the outer wall of the first housing being provided with a positioning protrusion.

[0014] Furthermore, the 3D printer includes a main frame, and the nozzle dock is mounted on the inner wall of the main frame; The drive mechanism includes a crossbeam and a printhead mount, with the crossbeam slidably mounted within the main frame; the printhead mount is slidably connected to the crossbeam and can be selectively engaged with one of the printhead, the inkjet printhead, or the plasma head module.

[0015] Based on the above technical solutions, the technical effects achievable by this invention can be analyzed as follows: The 3D printing method for colored objects provided by this invention is completed using a 3D printer, which includes a print head, an inkjet print head, and a plasma head module. This plasma head module is a processing module suitable for 3D printers, capable of plasma treatment. By generating active ions that bombard the material surface, physical and chemical changes are triggered, increasing the surface energy of the material. After the material surface has undergone plasma treatment, inkjet printing is performed within the effective timeframe of the treatment. This results in fast model coloring, excellent color effects, and strong ink adhesion to the material surface. It significantly improves the coloring effect of solvent-based inks on model surfaces, and also achieves good coloring results when using water-based inks. The print head is used to print the model, and the inkjet print head is used for inkjet printing.

[0016] The 3D printing method for colored objects includes triggering the printing nozzle to start when a printing instruction is received, and controlling the printing nozzle to run along a first preset route to print one or more printing layers; realizing the layered printing of the model, in which one or more layers can be printed; Upon receiving a coloring command, the plasma head module is activated and runs along a second preset route on the area to be colored in the printing layer, performing plasma processing. The inkjet printhead is then activated and runs along a third preset route on the area to be colored after plasma processing, applying inkjet color. After printing one or more layers, if the corresponding printing layer of the model needs coloring, the plasma head module is activated first to perform plasma processing on the area to be colored, and then the inkjet printhead is activated to apply inkjet color. If there are other layers to print and color, the above procedure is repeated until the entire colored object is printed. This printing method utilizes the plasma head module to increase the surface energy of the material, improving the compatibility between the material and ink. It is applicable to printing and coloring various materials and achieves fast and effective coloring of the model, with strong ink adhesion to the material surface. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A partial structural diagram of a 3D printer provided in an embodiment of this application from a first-view perspective; Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of the 3D printer provided in an embodiment of this application from a second perspective; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the plasma head module in a 3D printer provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the plasma head module in a 3D printer provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the plasma head body of the 3D printer provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the plasma head body of the 3D printer provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the plasma head module of a 3D printer provided in an embodiment of this application (with the second housing hidden). Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a 3D printing method for colored objects provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0019] icon: 1-Printer head; 2-Inkjet printhead; 3-Plasma head module; 31-Plasma head body; 311-Air inlet area; 312-Excitation area; 313-Air outlet; 314-Outer casing; 315-Control board; 316-External piezoelectric module; 317-Internal piezoelectric electrode; 318-Connector; 32-Outer shell; 321-Air inlet; 322-First shell; 324-Fixing protrusion; 325-Snap-fit ​​protrusion; 326-Second shell; 33-Fan; 34-Control cable; 4-Drive mechanism; 41-Crossbeam; 42-Nozzle holder; 5-Main frame; 51-Nozzle dock; 6-Printing platform. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 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.

[0021] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "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 is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and for 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0022] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "setup" and "connection" 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 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.

[0023] Example 1 Currently, FDM color printing technology is in a stage of rapid development and innovation, with various technical solutions striving to address issues such as color reproduction, printing efficiency, and material waste. One such solution, involving spraying and dyeing the model surface, specifically involves first using white material to form one or more printing layers through fused deposition modeling, and then spraying the corresponding color onto each layer after printing. This approach is a current research hotspot in FDM color printing because it can achieve rich, accurate, and truly full-color models at a relatively low cost and speed. The consumables used in FDM printing are mostly polymeric materials such as PLA (polylactic acid), PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). When using various inks to color the surface of models formed using FDM technology, due to the smooth and dense nature of the model surface and the physical repulsion between the model and the ink, poor ink adhesion often occurs, making the ink easy to wipe off; or even the ink may be unevenly dispersed on the model surface, forming uneven spots or failing to cover the surface at all, leading to coloring failure. To address this problem, UV (ultraviolet) inks can be used for coloring. After spraying a layer of UV ink onto the model surface, it is immediately cured by UV light. While this approach effectively solves problems related to color adhesion and other coloring effects, the use of UV inks and curing light sources brings issues such as strong odors from the equipment, potential harm to the human body, especially the eyes, from UV light, and increased costs. These problems significantly reduce user acceptance of such equipment. Alternatively, specific FDM coloring consumables and compatible inks can be used, such as solvent-based inks for coloring modified plastic substrates. However, this approach fails to effectively solve problems such as poor coloring results, slow speed, limited consumable options, and high ink prices. In summary, there is currently a lack of low-cost, high-efficiency, and high-quality FDM inkjet coloring technology solutions on the market.

[0024] See Figure 1 and Figure 2The 3D printer provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a print head 1, an inkjet print head 2, and a plasma head module 3. The plasma head module 3 is a processing module suitable for 3D printers, capable of plasma treatment. By generating active ions that bombard the material surface, physical and chemical changes are triggered, increasing the surface energy of the material. After the material surface has undergone plasma treatment, inkjet printing is performed within the effective timeframe of the treatment, resulting in fast model coloring, good color effects, and strong ink adhesion to the material surface. This significantly improves the coloring effect of solvent-based inks on the model surface, especially when using water-based inks. The print head 1 is used for printing the model, and the inkjet print head 2 is used for inkjet printing. The 3D printer also includes a drive mechanism 4, which is selectively and releasably connected to one of the print head 1, inkjet print head 2, or plasma head module 3, and is connected to the control chip of the 3D printer. The drive mechanism 4 is used to grasp and move the print head 1, inkjet print head 2, or plasma head module 3. The control chip is embedded within the 3D printer. Furthermore, multiple printheads 1 are provided, and all multiple printheads 1 are connected to the drive mechanism 4 for transmission.

[0025] The 3D printing method for this colored object includes the following steps: S100: When a print command is received, the print head 1 is triggered to start, and the print head 1 is controlled to run along a first preset route to print one or more layers. In this embodiment, the start and stop of the print head 1 can be triggered by controlling the opening and closing of the drive component inside the print head 1. The print command can come from slicing software on a PC, control program on a mobile phone, cloud server, or 3D printer terminal, etc., and is not limited here.

[0026] By triggering the start of printhead 1 and controlling its operation, layered printing of the model is achieved. This step can print one or more printing layers. The printing layers can be formed by melting filaments using fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology.

[0027] S200: When a coloring command is received, the plasma head module 3 is triggered to start, and the plasma head module 3 is controlled to run along the second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing; the inkjet printhead 2 is triggered to start, and the inkjet printhead 2 is controlled to perform inkjet coloring in the area to be colored after plasma processing according to the third preset route. In this embodiment, the start and stop of the plasma head module 3 can be triggered by controlling the opening and closing of the driving component inside the plasma head module 3; the inkjet printhead 2 can be triggered by controlling the pressure inside the inkjet printhead 2. The second preset route may be the same as or different from the third preset route, which is not limited here. The coloring command can come from slicing software on the PC, control program on the mobile phone, cloud server or 3D printer terminal, etc., which is not limited here.

[0028] By controlling the plasma head module 3 and inkjet printhead 2 to operate sequentially, after printing one or more layers, if the corresponding printed layer of the model needs to be colored, the plasma head module 3 is first activated to perform plasma treatment on the area to be colored, and then the inkjet printhead 2 is activated to spray ink onto the area to be colored. If there are other layers that need to be printed and colored, the above procedure is repeated until the entire colored object is printed. This printing method utilizes the plasma head module 3 to increase the surface energy of the material, improves the compatibility between the material and the ink, and can be used for printing and coloring various materials. It also achieves fast and good coloring of the model, and strong ink adhesion on the material surface.

[0029] In the optional solution provided by this embodiment of the invention, controlling the plasma head module 3 to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer for plasma processing includes the following steps: controlling the plasma head module 3 to run at a first preset speed. The plasma head module 3 runs at the first preset speed to achieve a preset processing effect, which can be evaluated by measuring surface energy changes and inkjet effects. Furthermore, by adjusting the magnitude of the first preset speed, the running speed of the plasma head module 3 and the action time at a specific location can be adjusted to achieve the required processing effect, thus matching different printing materials and inks. Further, the first preset speed can be set to 50-500 mm / s, for example, 50 mm / s, 100 mm / s, or 500 mm / s. Tests have shown that when printing with polylactic acid material, when the first preset speed is set to 100 mm / s, the surface energy of the printing layer before and after processing changes from 33 mN / m to 55 mN / m.

[0030] In the optional solution provided by this embodiment of the invention, the inkjet printhead 2 can be connected to an ink tank for storing ink via a pipeline. Based on this, controlling the plasma head module 3 to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printed layer for plasma treatment includes the following steps: controlling the power of the plasma head module 3 according to the material of the printing material and the ink. Different power of the plasma head module 3 can achieve different processing effects to match different printing materials and inks. In the existing test inks, weak solvent inks do not require plasma treatment due to their strong adhesion; while water-based inks must undergo plasma treatment to achieve better results. We evaluate the improvement effect by the change in surface energy dynes. Table 1 below shows the typical values ​​of surface energy change for two materials under different power settings at a plasma head module 3 moving speed of 100 mm / s. According to Table 1, for the same material, the higher the power of the plasma head module 3, the higher the surface energy of the printed layer.

[0031] Table 1. Surface energy variation of different materials for different plasma head modules with varying power levels.

[0032] In the optional solution provided by this embodiment of the invention, the plasma head module 3 has a fan 33. Based on this, controlling the plasma head module 3 to run along the second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer for plasma processing includes the following steps: controlling the rotation speed of the fan 33 according to the material of the printing material and ink. Different rotation speeds of the fan 33 of the plasma head module 3 can achieve different processing effects to match different printing materials and inks. Under normal circumstances, the surface treatment effect is evaluated by the change in surface energy dynes; see Table 2 below. Table 2 shows the typical values ​​of surface energy change of two materials under different rotation speed settings of the plasma head module 3 with the moving speed of 100mm / s and the power of the plasma head module 3 set to 20W. According to Table 2, when the moving speed and power of the plasma head module 3 are the same, the surface energy of the same material after plasma treatment first increases and then decreases as the rotation speed of the plasma head module 3 increases. Therefore, the rotation speed of the plasma head module 3 can be set within a certain range to ensure the processing effect.

[0033] Table 2. Surface energy variation of different materials at different rotation speeds in plasma head module 3.

[0034] Example 2 See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The 3D printer provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a print head 1, an inkjet print head 2, a plasma head module 3, a print head dock 51, and a drive mechanism 4; the print head 1, the inkjet print head 2, and the plasma head module 3 are detachably installed in the print head dock 51, and the drive mechanism 4 is selectively releasably connected to one of the print head 1, the inkjet print head 2, and the plasma head module 3.

[0035] Specifically, the print head 1, inkjet print head 2, and plasma head module 3 can perform different tasks. Before printing, all three types of print heads are placed in the print head dock 51. During printing, the drive mechanism 4 picks up different print heads to perform the tasks. Furthermore, multiple print heads 1 can be set up, and multiple print heads 1 are placed in the print head dock 51. The drive mechanism 4 picks up different print heads 1 for printing, improving efficiency. When using this 3D printer, the drive mechanism 4 picks up the required print head 1 and prints one or more printing layers according to the slice data. After printing, the print head 1 is returned to its original position. If coloring is required, the plasma head module 3 is picked up to perform plasma treatment on the area to be colored. After the plasma head module 3 is processed, it is returned to its original position, and the inkjet print head 2 is picked up to perform inkjet coloring on the area to be colored after plasma treatment. If there are other layers to be printed, the process is repeated until the printing of the colored object is completed. In this embodiment, the plasma head module 3 is integrated into a single module and placed inside the printhead dock 51. Of course, the plasma head module 3 is divided into two modules: a plasma generator and a plasma processing probe. The plasma generator is fixed at a certain position on the printer, and the plasma processing probe is placed inside the printhead dock 51 of the printer. This arrangement should also be within the protection scope of this embodiment.

[0036] This 3D printer miniaturizes an atmospheric pressure plasma generator into a processing module suitable for 3D printing, namely the plasma head module 3. This module is the same size as other FDM printheads and can be grasped and moved by the drive mechanism 4. Before inkjet printing on the FDM-formed printed layer, the plasma head module 3 performs plasma treatment on the surface of the material to be printed. The generated active particles bombard the material surface, inducing physical and chemical changes and increasing the surface energy of the material. After the material surface has undergone plasma treatment, inkjet printing is performed within the effective time of the treatment effect, which is particularly suitable for water-based inks. It achieves fast model coloring, good color effect, and strong ink adhesion to the material surface. It not only greatly improves the coloring effect of solvent-based inks on model surfaces, but also achieves good coloring effect when using water-based inks to print on model surfaces. It has been verified that water-based inks from household paper printers can be used for coloring, thus improving the cost competitiveness of FDM full-color printing equipment.

[0037] Among the optional solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 , Figure 4 The green arrow in the middle indicates the direction of gas flow; the printing nozzle 1 is a nozzle formed by fused deposition; the plasma head module 3 includes a plasma head body 31, which includes an air inlet area 311, an excitation area 312 and an air outlet 313, with the excitation area 312 located between the air inlet area 311 and the air outlet 313.

[0038] Specifically, the plasma head module 3 is miniaturized for use in 3D printers and integrated into the printer head. Utilizing piezoelectric direct discharge, the plasma head module 3 operates on a 24V low-voltage power supply, ensuring safety and reliability. Its power is adjustable from 15-50W, and its operating temperature is within the normal range (approximately 50-80°C), preventing dimensional accuracy fluctuations in FDM consumables due to temperature variations. Air plasma is preferred, as the relatively small coloring area of ​​FDM requires a processing depth of approximately 1-5µm to improve coloring quality. To further enhance the processing effect, the distance between the plasma head and the material surface can be adjusted from 1-5mm, as can the processing time. The power of the plasma head module 3 can be adjusted according to different materials and inks. The fan 33 (hereinafter referred to as fan 33) speed, movement speed, processing distance, and time within the plasma head module 3 can all alter the processing effect. Plasma technology uses plasma (ionized gas with equal amounts of positive and negative charges, the fourth state of matter) as a high-temperature heat source to drive chemical reactions. Plasma generation requires specific conditions. Its main working principle involves boosting a low voltage to positive and negative high voltages via a step-up circuit. These high voltages ionize air (primarily oxygen), generating a large number of positive and negative ions, with the number of negative ions being approximately 1.5 times that of positive ions. Plasma is classified by flame temperature into high-temperature plasma (e.g., solar plasma, plasma generated by nuclear fusion) and low-temperature plasma. This plasma module uses low-temperature plasma. Low-temperature plasma generation technologies include: DC glow discharge, low-frequency discharge plasma, high-frequency discharge plasma, non-equilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma discharge, dielectric barrier discharge, and corona discharge. Plasma is a state of matter composed of charged and neutral particles, characterized by high temperature, high energy, and a strong electric field. In plasma technology, piezoelectric direct discharge technology is a common method for plasma preparation. Its principle is to utilize the piezoelectric effect to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, thereby generating high-energy plasma. This plasma module uses piezoelectric direct discharge technology to generate plasma. The principle of this technology is to use an instantaneous high-voltage power supply to generate corona discharge, forming a high-density gas plasma layer on the electrode surface. Combined with inlet and outlet nozzles, atmospheric / normal pressure plasma flow is achieved, bombarding the material surface with these active particles, triggering physical and chemical changes, thereby achieving surface modification and enhancing the adhesion between the ink and the substrate. Alternatively, corona treatment can be used if the desired coloring effect is achieved; corona treatment is a type of low-temperature plasma technology. The principle of corona treatment is that under a high-voltage electric field, the air between the electrodes is broken down, causing corona discharge, generating low-temperature plasma that acts on the plastic surface.

[0039] The plasma head body 31 includes an air inlet zone 311, an excitation zone 312, and an air outlet 313. The excitation zone 312 is located between the air inlet zone 311 and the air outlet 313 and is used to excite the air entering from the air inlet zone 311 and spray it out from the air outlet 313 to act on the surface of the printed object, thereby achieving the effect of surface modification.

[0040] Among the optional solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 4 to 6 The plasma head body 31 includes an outer cover 314, a control board 315, and a connector 318, an external piezoelectric module 316, and an internal piezoelectric electrode 317 installed inside the outer cover 314. The top of the outer cover 314 is an air inlet area 311, and the bottom is provided with an air outlet 313. The connector 318 is installed below the air inlet area 311 and above the external piezoelectric module 316. One end of the internal piezoelectric electrode 317 is connected to the connector 318, and the other end passes through the external piezoelectric module 316 and extends into the air outlet 313. An excitation area 312 is formed between the connector 318, the external piezoelectric module 316, and the internal piezoelectric electrode 317. The control board 315 is installed outside the outer cover 314 and is signal-connected to the connector 318.

[0041] Specifically, the control board 315 provides the required voltage and frequency conversion to excite the external piezoelectric module 316 and the internal piezoelectric electrode 317 to ionize the flowing gas; the external piezoelectric module 316 has an annular cup-shaped structure to facilitate the passage of gas through the middle; the internal piezoelectric electrode 317 is connected to the connector 318; the plasma gas is ejected from the outlet 313 and can act on the surface of the printed object.

[0042] An excitation region 312 is formed between the external piezoelectric module 316, the connector 318, and the internal piezoelectric electrode 317 to perform plasma treatment on the gas entering the excitation region 312.

[0043] Among the optional solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The plasma head module 3 includes a housing 32, a fan 33, and a control cable 34. The outer cover 314, the fan 33, and the control board 315 are all installed inside the housing 32. The top of the housing 32 is provided with an air inlet 321, which is connected to the air intake area 311. The fan 33 is located between the air inlet 321 and the air intake area 311. The control cable 34 passes through the housing 32 and extends into the interior of the housing 32.

[0044] Specifically, air enters through the air inlet 321 of the housing 32, and the fan 33 is positioned between the air inlet 321 and the air intake zone 311, i.e., above the connector 318, to provide air into the excitation zone 312. Furthermore, the fan 33's rotation speed is adjustable, thereby changing the plasma flow rate and pressure; during processing, the control board 315 can adjust the power of the excitation plasma generation according to the settings. The distance and relative speed between the air outlet 313 and the surface of the printed material, as well as the interaction time, are all adjustable. Furthermore, pressurized gas can also be input into the housing 32, or an oxygen source can be supplied to enhance the plasma processing effect.

[0045] The housing 32 encloses the outer casing 314, fan 33, and control board 315, protecting their internal components, and is detachably connected to the nozzle dock 51. The control cable 34 provides control current and signal transmission.

[0046] In the optional solution provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the outer shell 32 includes a first shell 322 and a second shell 326. The first shell 322 is snapped into the second shell 326, and the outer wall of the first shell 322 is provided with a positioning protrusion (not shown in the figure, but can be set according to the actual situation).

[0047] Specifically, the first housing 322 and the second housing 326 engage to accommodate the various parts within the outer housing 32. See also... Figure 7 The first housing 322 has a fixing protrusion 324 and a snap-fit ​​protrusion 325 inside. The fixing protrusion 324 has a through hole, and the fan 33 is installed above the fixing protrusion 324; the outer cover 314 is snapped inside the snap-fit ​​protrusion 325.

[0048] The first housing 322 has a positioning protrusion for use as a mating reference when the drive mechanism 4 grips.

[0049] In the optional solution provided by the embodiments of the present invention, the 3D printer includes a main frame 5, and the printhead dock 51 is installed on the inner wall of the main frame 5; the drive mechanism 4 includes a crossbeam 41 and a printhead seat 42, the crossbeam 41 is slidably installed in the main frame 5; the printhead seat 42 is slidably connected to the crossbeam 41, and is selectively engaged with the printing printhead 1, the inkjet printhead 2 and the plasma head module 3.

[0050] Specifically, see Figure 1The printhead holder 42 is mounted on the crossbeam 41, and the crossbeam 41 is equipped with a guide transmission mechanism to drive the printhead holder 42 to move. During printing, the printhead holder 42 can grasp different printheads to work. There is a positioning and fixing mechanism between the printhead holder 42 and the printhead dock 51. The printhead dock 51, printhead holder 42, and crossbeam 41 are all set in the main frame 5, and a height-adjustable printing platform 6 is set below. The guide transmission mechanism can be set as a motor and lead screw cooperation structure, a guide rail and slider movement structure, a synchronous belt drive structure, etc.; the positioning and fixing mechanism can be set as a hole shaft, plate groove, magnetic attraction, rotary locking, etc.

[0051] After the printhead holder 42 is engaged with any printhead, the printhead holder 42 can move along the length of the crossbeam 41, and the crossbeam 41 can move along its own width, so that the printhead holder 42 can move on the printing platform 6, thereby realizing the printing and coloring functions.

[0052] See Figure 8 The following is a detailed explanation of the 3D printing method for this colored object: Receive slice data and prepare to print; Printhead holder 42 grips printhead 1; Print one or more printing layers, and after completion, printhead holder 42 puts printhead 1 back into printhead dock 51; Nozzle holder 42 grips plasma head module 3; The plasma head module 3 processes the area to be colored in the printing layer, and after completion, the printhead holder 42 puts the plasma head module 3 back into the printhead dock 51. Printhead holder 42 grips inkjet printhead 2; The inkjet printhead 2 applies color to the area to be colored after plasma treatment, and after completion, the printhead holder 42 puts the inkjet printhead 2 back into the printhead dock 51. Repeat the necessary steps until printing is complete.

[0053] This 3D printer miniaturizes an atmospheric pressure plasma generator into a processing module suitable for FDM printers. Before inkjet printing on the FDM-generated print layer, the plasma processor treats the surface of the material to be printed with plasma. The generated active particles bombard the material surface, triggering physical and chemical changes and increasing the surface energy of the material. After plasma treatment, inkjet printing is performed within the effective timeframe of the treatment. This results in fast and effective inkjet printing on the model, with strong ink adhesion to the material surface. By increasing the surface energy of the material, the compatibility of the material and ink is improved, making it suitable for printing on a variety of materials.

[0054] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0055] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method for 3D printing a colored object, characterized in that, The process is accomplished using a 3D printer, which includes a printhead (1), an inkjet printhead (2), and a plasma head module (3); the method includes: When a printing command is received, the print head (1) is triggered to start and the print head (1) is controlled to run and print one or more layers of printing according to the first preset route; When a coloring instruction is received, the plasma head module (3) is triggered to start and the plasma head module (3) is controlled to run in the area to be colored on the printing layer according to the second preset route to perform plasma processing; the inkjet printhead (2) is triggered to start and the inkjet printhead (2) is controlled to perform inkjet coloring in the area to be colored after plasma processing according to the third preset route.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Controlling the plasma head module (3) to run along the second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer for plasma processing includes: Control the plasma head module (3) to run at a first preset speed.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inkjet printhead (2) can be connected to an ink tank storing ink via a pipeline, and the plasma head module (3) is controlled to run along a second preset route in the area to be colored on the printing layer to perform plasma processing, including: The power of the plasma head module (3) is controlled according to the printing material and the material of the ink.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plasma head module (3) has a fan (33), and controlling the plasma head module (3) to run in the area to be colored on the printing layer according to the second preset route to perform plasma processing includes: The rotational speed of the fan (33) is controlled according to the printing material and the material of the ink.

5. A three-dimensional printer, characterized in that, include: Printing nozzle (1), inkjet nozzle (2), plasma head module (3), printhead dock (51) and drive mechanism (4); The printhead (1), the inkjet printhead (2) and the plasma head module (3) are detachably mounted on the printhead dock (51), and the drive mechanism (4) is selectively releasably connected to one of the printhead (1), the inkjet printhead (2) and the plasma head module (3).

6. The three-dimensional printer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The printing nozzle (1) is a nozzle formed by fused deposition modeling; the plasma head module (3) includes a plasma head body (31), the plasma head body (31) includes an air inlet area (311), an excitation area (312) and an air outlet (313), the excitation area (312) is located between the air inlet area (311) and the air outlet (313).

7. The three-dimensional printer according to claim 6, characterized in that, The plasma head body (31) includes an outer cover (314), a control board (315), and a connector (318), an external piezoelectric module (316), and an internal piezoelectric electrode (317) installed in the outer cover (314). The top of the outer cover (314) is the air inlet area (311), and the bottom is provided with the air outlet (313). The connector (318) is installed below the air intake area (311) and above the external piezoelectric module (316). One end of the internal piezoelectric electrode (317) is connected to the connector (318), and the other end passes through the external piezoelectric module (316) and extends into the air outlet (313). The excitation region (312) is formed between the connector (318), the external piezoelectric module (316), and the internal piezoelectric electrode (317). The control board (315) is mounted on the outside of the outer cover (314) and is signal connected to the connector (318).

8. The three-dimensional printer according to claim 7, characterized in that, The plasma head module (3) includes a housing (32), a fan (33) and a control cable (34). The outer cover (314), the fan (33) and the control board (315) are all installed inside the housing (32). The top of the housing (32) is provided with an air inlet (321), which is connected to the air intake area (311). The fan (33) is located between the air inlet (321) and the air intake area (311); The control cable (34) passes through the housing (32) and extends into the interior of the housing (32).

9. The three-dimensional printer according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer shell (32) includes a first shell (322) and a second shell (326), the first shell (322) and the second shell (326) are snapped together, and the outer wall of the first shell (322) is provided with a positioning protrusion.

10. The three-dimensional printer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The 3D printer includes a main frame (5), and the nozzle dock (51) is installed on the inner wall of the main frame (5); The drive mechanism (4) includes a crossbeam (41) and a printhead holder (42). The crossbeam (41) is slidably installed in the main frame (5). The printhead holder (42) is slidably connected to the crossbeam (41) and is selectively engaged with the printing printhead (1), the inkjet printhead (2), and the plasma head module (3).

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