shelf and 3D printer

Abstract

This application relates to a mounting frame and a 3D printer. The mounting frame is applied to a 3D printer including a tool head. The tool head is capable of loading a replaceable print head. The tool head is configured to move the replaceable print head to the alignment position of the mounting frame along the alignment direction. Then, the 3D printer switches the replaceable print head from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction and places it on the mounting frame. The mounting frame includes a frame body and a positioning member. The positioning member is used to cooperate with the replaceable print head during the alignment or placement process to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head. The positioning member includes a third positioning member, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the activity direction, which is perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2025116218480, filed on November 6, 2025, entitled "Placement Shelf and 3D Printer", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of printing technology, and more specifically, to a mounting rack and a 3D printer. Background Technology

[0003] In recent years, additive printers have developed rapidly. Among them, additive printers with multiple printheads can meet users' needs for printing color models.

[0004] Additive printers with multiple printheads typically store multiple replaceable printheads on a rack, and these replaceable printheads need to be repeatedly picked up and loaded onto the rack during the printing process. However, how to achieve stable fixation of the replaceable printheads during this process remains a problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application describes a mounting frame for a 3D printer including a tool head. The tool head is capable of mounting a replaceable print head. The tool head is configured to move the replaceable print head along an alignment direction to an alignment position on the mounting frame. Then, the 3D printer switches the replaceable print head from a mating position to an unlocked position along an assembly direction and places it on the mounting frame. The mounting frame includes a frame body and a positioning member. The positioning member engages with the replaceable print head during the alignment or placement process to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head. The positioning member includes a third positioning member, which limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along a direction perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction. Thus, the placement frame, through the positioning component, cooperates with the replaceable printhead during the alignment or placement process to limit the replaceable printhead, which helps to improve the stability and fixation of the replaceable printhead during the alignment or placement process and avoids shaking that could lead to placement failure. Among them, the third positioning component limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the active direction, so that the replaceable printhead is limited and guided in the active direction, preventing the replaceable printhead from shaking in the active direction.

[0006] In some embodiments, the third positioning element is used to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the activity direction during the alignment process, in which the replaceable printhead moves along the alignment direction to the alignment position. It is understood that the order of loading the replaceable printhead is that the tool head first moves the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction to the alignment position on the placement frame, and then the 3D printer switches the replaceable printhead from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction; that is, the alignment process precedes the placement process. Therefore, by restricting the degree of freedom of movement in the activity direction first during the alignment process, the third positioning element can provide early limitation and guidance in the activity direction for the replaceable printhead, making the alignment process and subsequent placement more accurate.

[0007] In some embodiments, the third positioning element includes at least two first sub-positioning portions, which are arranged at intervals along the direction of movement, and the interval between the two first sub-positioning portions is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead.

[0008] In some embodiments, the third positioning member includes at least two second sub-positioning members, which are arranged at intervals along the activity direction. The interval between the two second sub-positioning members is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead, and the second sub-positioning members and the first sub-positioning part are spaced apart along the assembly direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, the mounting frame has multiple replaceable printhead placement positions, and the multiple replaceable printheads are arranged along the direction of movement.

[0010] In some embodiments, the positioning element further includes a second positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction; after the 3D printer places the replaceable print head on the placement frame, the second positioning element limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction under the action of the power element.

[0011] In some embodiments, the positioning element further includes a first positioning element for limiting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction; after the 3D printer places the replaceable printhead on the placement frame, the first positioning element restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the positioning element includes a first positioning element for defining the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction.

[0013] In some embodiments, one of the replaceable printhead and the first positioning member can be a hook, and the other can be a slot that engages with the hook; or, one of the replaceable printhead and the first positioning member can be a pin, and the other can be a slot that engages with the pin; or, one of the replaceable printhead and the first positioning member can be a magnet or electromagnet, and the other can be a magnetic element.

[0014] In some embodiments, the positioning element further includes a second positioning element for limiting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction; the placement process of the replaceable printhead includes the first positioning element first limiting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction, and then the second positioning element limiting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning member can be a hook, and the other can be a slot that engages with the hook; or, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning member can be a pin, and the other can be a slot that engages with the pin; or, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning member can be a magnet, and the other can be a magnetic element.

[0016] In some embodiments, during the movement of the tool head to the alignment position, the second positioning member is activated to release the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction; after the 3D printer places the replaceable print head on the placement frame, the second positioning member, under the action of the power member, limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the power element is at least one of an elastic element, an electromagnetic element, a magnetic element, and an electric drive device; during the process of the tool head moving to the alignment position, the second positioning element moving to release the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction includes: the second positioning element being driven by the tool head and overcoming the force of the power element, so that the second positioning element moves to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction, or the power element actively drives the second positioning element to move to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning element can be a magnet and the other can be a magnetic element, wherein the magnet is inclined away from the assembly direction from the surface of the magnetic element, and the surface of the magnetic element is inclined toward the magnet.

[0019] In some embodiments, the overall extending plane of the magnet toward the surface of the magnetic element forms an angle with the assembly direction.

[0020] In some embodiments, the side of the magnet facing the magnetic element includes two magnetic regions with opposite polarities.

[0021] In some embodiments, the two magnetic regions are arranged toward the assembly direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the angle of inclination between the overall extending plane of the magnet and the magnetic element and the assembly direction is the same.

[0023] In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of the overall extending plane of the magnet and magnetic element relative to the assembly direction ranges from 5° to 90°.

[0024] In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of the overall extending plane of the magnet and magnetic element relative to the assembly direction ranges from 15° to 40°.

[0025] This application describes a 3D printer, comprising: a replaceable printhead, the replaceable printhead including a heating chamber and a nozzle, the heating chamber being used to heat the filament into a molten state and output the printed material through the nozzle; a placement frame, the placement frame being used to place the replaceable printhead; a tool head, the tool head including a drive component and an assembly component, the assembly component being used to adjust the position of the replaceable printhead relative to the tool head to a mating position; the tool head is configured such that after moving the replaceable printhead along an alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame, the assembly component is further used to switch the replaceable printhead along an assembly direction from the mating position to an unlocked position, so as to place the replaceable printhead on the placement frame; a third positioning component, the third positioning component being used to cooperate with the replaceable printhead during the alignment or placement process of the replaceable printhead to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along a movement direction, the movement direction being perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction.

[0026] In some embodiments, the assembly includes an assembly part, one end of which is connected to the replaceable printhead; the drive is driven to move the assembly part.

[0027] In some embodiments, the assembly assembly further includes an adjusting member that is drively connected to both the assembly part and the drive member.

[0028] In some embodiments, the adjusting member moves or rotates to cause the insertion portion to slide along the assembly direction, so that the assembly moves between the mating position and the unlocking position.

[0029] Other beneficial effects of this application will be explained in detail through the introduction of specific technical features and technical solutions in the specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art should be able to understand the beneficial technical effects brought about by the technical features and technical solutions through the introduction of these technical features and technical solutions. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The preferred embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the 3D printer in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial structural diagram of the 3D printer in the illustrated embodiment; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the motion system and tool head in some other embodiments when they are engaged; Figure 4 for Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the tool head's structure in some embodiments; Figure 5 for Figure 4 Exploded view of the tool head in some embodiments shown in the illustration; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the 3D printer in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 for Figure 5 Assembly diagram of some tool heads in some embodiments shown in the illustration; Figure 8 for Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of the placement rack in some embodiments. Figure 9 for Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment shows a partial structural diagram of the tool head in some embodiments. Figure 10 for Figure 7 A partial structural diagram of the tool head in the illustrated embodiment; Figure 11 for Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment shows a structural diagram of the placement rack in other embodiments; Figure 12 for Figure 11 The illustrated embodiment is a structural diagram showing the loading or unloading of the replaceable printhead from the placement rack and tool head. Figure 13 for Figure 11The illustrated embodiment is a structural diagram showing the loading or unloading of the replaceable printhead from the placement rack and tool head. Figure 14 for Figure 12 An exploded view of a portion of the placement rack in some embodiments of the illustrated examples; Figure 15 for Figure 8 The illustrated embodiment shows a structural diagram of the placement rack in other embodiments; Figure 16 for Figure 15 A partial enlarged view of the placement frame and the replaceable printhead in the illustrated embodiment; Figure 17 for Figure 15 The diagram shown illustrates the arrangement of the mounting frame with the replaceable printhead in the embodiment. Figure 18 for Figure 17 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the placement frame and replaceable printhead in the embodiment shown; Figure 19 This is a partial structural diagram of a 3D printer in some embodiments of this application.

[0032] The annotations in the attached figures are explained as follows: A100, 3D printer; A10, machine body; X, length direction; Y, width direction; Z, height direction / gravity direction; A20, motion system; A1001, opening; A1002, door panel; A30, Tool head; A31, Mounting base; A32, Replaceable print head; A321, Connecting base; A322, Feed channel; A325, Assembly section; A3251, First assembly section; A3252, Second assembly section; A3254, Third assembly section; A33, Extrusion mechanism; A331, Mating wheel; A332, Extrusion wheel; A501, Feed tube / supply tube; A34, Spacing adjustment assembly; A341, Moving part; A342, Rotating part; A35, Drive component; A351, Rotary motor; A352, Assembly motor; A36, Assembly assembly; A361, Assembly part; A3612, Rotating part; A362, Adjusting component; A3621, First motion groove; A3622, First rack part; A363, Drive wheel; A40, Placement rack; A41, Frame; A42, Positioning component; A421, First positioning component; A422, Second positioning component; A4221, Abutting part; A4222, Limiting part; A4223, Unlocking part; A423, Third positioning component; A4231, First sub-positioning part; A4232, Second sub-positioning component; A424, Power component; A425, Mounting plate; A426, Fixing component; A43, Sealing assembly; a, Inclined angle. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0034] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0035] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0036] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0037] Next, this application describes a 3D (Three Dimensions) printer. The 3D printer A100 can be used to heat and melt a filament to form a printing material, and to build objects by stacking the printing material layer by layer, thereby realizing the printing of three-dimensional models.

[0038] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the 3D printer A100 in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment presents a partial structural diagram of the 3D printer A100. The 3D printer A100 may include a body A10, a motion system A20, and a tool head A30. Please refer to further details... Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the motion system A20 and the tool head A30 in cooperation in some other embodiments. The motion system A20 may be mounted on the body A10. The tool head A30 may be mounted on the motion system A20. The motion system A20 can drive the tool head A30, thereby enabling the movement of the tool head A30.

[0039] The body A10 may have orthogonally arranged length direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z. The motion system A20 can be used to drive the tool head A30 along at least one of the three directions X, Y, and Z, thereby moving the tool head A30. In some embodiments, the height direction Z may be the direction of gravity.

[0040] For example, motion system A20 can drive tool head A30 on a printing plane defined by length direction X and width direction Y. Using tool head A30, the three-dimensional model is printed layer by layer with printing material. Then, motion system A20 continues to adjust the position of tool head A30 in height direction Z, and then further drives tool head A30 on another printing plane defined by length direction X and width direction Y. Using tool head A30, the three-dimensional model is printed layer by layer with printing material. This process is repeated multiple times to complete the layer-by-layer stacking of printing material and realize the printing of the three-dimensional model.

[0041] It is understandable that the body A10 and the motion system A20 can be configured based on technical solutions known to those skilled in the art, and will not be elaborated upon.

[0042] Please see Figure 1 The 3D printer A100 may have an open port A1001. Open port A1001 connects the interior of the 3D printer A100 to the outside. Users can adjust or repair the internal structure of the 3D printer A100, such as the mounting frame A40 and tool head A30, through open port A1001. The replaceable print head A32 includes a wiring harness. The heating element A3224 is connected to the internal structure of the 3D printer A100 via the wiring harness to obtain heating current. The replaceable print head A32 has a wiring harness connector for electrical connection to the wiring harness on the 3D printer A100.

[0043] In some embodiments, the 3D printer A100 also includes a door panel A1002, which is used to close the opening A1001, thereby helping to maintain a constant internal temperature and improve printing quality. Additionally, the door panel A1002 can also be used to replace or maintain the tool head A30 or the replaceable print head A32.

[0044] This application also describes a tool head A30. Please refer to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 for Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the tool head A30 in some embodiments. Figure 5 for Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment shows an exploded view of the tool head A30 in some embodiments. The tool head A30 can be used in a 3D printer A100 as a core printing component of the 3D printer A100. It is designed to heat and melt the filament and output printing material. It can then move under the control of the 3D printer A100, for example, the motion system A20, to achieve the layer-by-layer stacking of printing material and complete the printing of a three-dimensional model.

[0045] The tool head A30 may include a mounting base A31, a replaceable print head A32, and an extrusion mechanism A33. The mounting base A31 allows for the mounting of structures on the tool head A30, such as the replaceable print head A32 and the extrusion mechanism A33. The replaceable print head A32 is detachably mounted on the mounting base A31. A feed line can enter the replaceable print head A32. The replaceable print head A32 can heat and melt the feed line and output the printed material. The extrusion mechanism A33 can extrude the feed line, thereby conveying the feed line by compressing and driving it. The extrusion mechanism A33 can convey the feed line into the replaceable print head A32, where it can be heated and melted, and then output to complete the printing.

[0046] Please see Figure 2 The 3D printer A100 may also include a mounting rack A40. The mounting rack A40 can be used to hold the replaceable printhead A32. For example, unused replaceable printheads A32 can be placed on the mounting rack A40. Replaceable printheads A32 that are needed can also be removed from the mounting rack A40.

[0047] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 5The replaceable printhead A32 can be detachably mounted on the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31, during the printing process. The replaceable printhead A32 can then be replaced based on the type of feed line, color, maintenance needs, or other requirements. That is, the replaceable printhead A32 to be replaced can be removed from the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31, and a replacement replaceable printhead A32 can be mounted on the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31.

[0048] Understandably, to enable the A100 3D printer to adapt to different types of filaments or 3D models, or other requirements, multiple replaceable printheads A32 can be provided. These replaceable printheads may differ from each other in structure, performance, size, or material to match the requirements of different types of filaments or 3D models. The replaceable printheads A32 are selectable and replaceable, and are mounted on the mounting base A31 for use. This significantly reduces material waste from flushing, saves time changing filaments, and improves printing efficiency.

[0049] In some embodiments, a replaceable printhead A32 can be detached from a tool head A30, such as a mounting base A31, and another replaceable printhead A32 can be mounted on the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31. In a further embodiment, the detached replaceable printhead A32 can be placed on a placement rack A40. In a further embodiment, the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31, can mount another replaceable printhead A32 from the placement rack A40, and the other replaceable printhead A32 can be removed from the placement rack A40.

[0050] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 The replaceable printhead A32 can melt the filament that extends into it, for example, to form printing material, and can output the printing material to achieve the printing of a 3D model.

[0051] The replaceable printhead A32 may include a connector A321. In some embodiments, the connector A321 may be mounted on a tool head A30, such as a mounting base A31. In some embodiments, the replaceable printhead A32 may further include a feed channel A322 to allow a feed line to enter the replaceable printhead A32. In some embodiments, the feed channel A322 may be disposed on the connector A321. In some embodiments, the feed channel A322 may be mounted on the mounting base A31. In a further embodiment, the connector A321 and the feed channel A322 may cooperate to mount the replaceable printhead A32 on the mounting base A31.

[0052] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6The placement rack A40 has multiple slots for replaceable printheads A32, with different slots corresponding to different replaceable printheads A32. By assigning a fixed slot to each different replaceable printhead A32, the replaceable printheads A32 can be arranged in an orderly manner. Since the replaceable printheads A32 are also connected to the feed tube A501, placing each replaceable printhead A32 in a different slot can prevent the feed tube A501 from getting tangled and interfering with the printing process.

[0053] In some embodiments, the replaceable printhead A32 may be provided with an assembly part A325 to cooperate with the placement frame A40, so as to realize the installation of the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement frame A40 through the assembly part A325.

[0054] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The extrusion mechanism A33 may include at least one of the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332.

[0055] The mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 can extrude the material line. Furthermore, the interval between the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 can match the size of the material line, such as the wire diameter and material. When the material line is extruded by the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 to the replaceable print head A32, the feed line passes through or accommodates the material line.

[0056] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 To allow for adjustable spacing to match the dimensions of the feed line, such as wire diameter and material, the tool head A30, for example, the extrusion mechanism A33, may also include a spacing adjustment component A34. This component A34 can be connected to at least one of the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332, thereby controlling the radial movement of at least one of them to adjust the spacing between them. For example, the spacing can be adjusted via the spacing adjustment component A34 to load or unload the feed line. Alternatively, the spacing can be adjusted to match the dimensions of the feed line, such as wire diameter and material, to extrude (e.g., clamp and push) the feed line, thereby achieving feed line delivery.

[0057] In some embodiments, to enable adjustable spacing, the tool head A30 may further include a drive member A35, which drives the mating wheel A331 and / or the extrusion wheel A332 to move relative to each other, for example, radially, to adjust the clamping gap (i.e., the spacing). For example, the spacing can be adjusted by the drive member A35 to load or unload the wire, or to match the wire size, such as wire diameter or material, so that the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 can further extrude the wire, thus conveying the wire. In some embodiments, the drive member A35 may be a motor, electric cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or other power-providing components or structures known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the drive member A35 may be driveably connected to the spacing adjustment assembly A34, thereby providing power to the spacing adjustment assembly A34 to achieve spacing adjustment.

[0058] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 , Figure 7 for Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment shows an assembly diagram of part of the tool head A30 in some embodiments. Figure 9 for Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment shows a partial structural diagram of the tool head A30 in some embodiments. Figure 10 for Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment shows a partial structural diagram of the tool head A30. The spacing adjustment assembly A34 may include a movable part A341, which is rotatably connected to the mounting base A31. To enable the spacing adjustment assembly A34 to adjust the spacing, an extrusion wheel A332 may be mounted on and rotatably connected to the movable part A341. Furthermore, when the movable part A341 moves, it can drive the extrusion wheel A332 to move together, and move towards or away from the mating wheel A331 to adjust the spacing.

[0059] In some embodiments, the moving part A341 can be directly connected to the driving member A35 so that the driving member A35 can drive the moving part A341 to rotate, thereby causing the extrusion wheel A332 to move together toward or away from the mating wheel A331.

[0060] In some embodiments, the spacing adjustment assembly A34 may include a rotating portion A342. The rotating portion A342 is rotatably connected to the mounting base A31 and is capable of abutting against the moving portion A341. Furthermore, the rotating portion A342 is rotatable relative to the mounting base A31.

[0061] The rotating part A342 can be rotated relative to the mounting base A31 to push the moving part A341, so that the moving part A341 can rotate relative to the mounting base A31 and move, thereby adjusting the interval.

[0062] In some embodiments, the rotating part A342 may be connected to the driving member A35 for transmission so as to rotate under the drive of the driving member A35, thereby pushing the moving part A341 to move.

[0063] To enable the spacing adjustment assembly A34 to adjust the spacing, the rotating part A342 can rotate relative to the mounting base A31, further pushing the moving part A341. This allows the moving part A341 to rotate relative to the mounting base A31, thus moving it and driving the extrusion wheel A332 to move together, towards or away from the mating wheel A331, thereby achieving spacing adjustment. In other words, the rotating part A342 can change the relative position of the moving part A341 on the mounting base A31 by rotation, and can further drive the extrusion wheel A332 towards or away from the mating wheel A331.

[0064] In some embodiments, when the rotating part A342 is rotated to the first position, there is a first gap between the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332. The mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 cooperate to clamp the material line, so that the material line can be extruded and conveyed from the first gap. In some embodiments, the first gap can be adjusted so that the mating wheel A331 and the extrusion wheel A332 can extrude different types of material lines, thereby realizing the conveying of different types of material lines. Please refer to [link to previous text]. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 To facilitate the removal and installation of the replaceable printhead A32, the tool head A30 may further include an assembly component A36. The assembly component A36 is capable of adjusting the position of the replaceable printhead A32 relative to the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31. For instance, adjusting the position of the replaceable printhead A32 relative to the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31, to a mating position allows for the installation of the replaceable printhead A32 onto the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31. Alternatively, adjusting the position of the replaceable printhead A32 relative to the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31, to an unlocked position allows for the removal of the replaceable printhead A32 from the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31.

[0065] In some embodiments, a replaceable printhead A32, such as a connector A321, can be detached from the mounting base A31, for example, by means of an assembly assembly A36, or another replaceable printhead A32 can be mounted on the mounting base A31, for example, by means of an assembly assembly A36.

[0066] In some embodiments, the assembly component A36 can be driven by the drive component A35 to move the replaceable printhead A32 between an engaged position and an unlocked position, thereby enabling the replaceable printhead A32 to be removed from or installed on the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31.

[0067] In some embodiments, the drive member A35 may be drively connected to the spacing adjustment component A34 and the assembly component A36, thereby enabling the drive member A35 to drive the spacing adjustment component A34 to move in order to adjust the spacing, and thereby enabling the drive member A35 to drive the assembly component A36 to move in order to remove or install the replaceable printhead A32 on the tool head A30, for example, the mounting base A31.

[0068] The drive component A35 can drive assembly component A36 and pitch adjustment component A34 simultaneously, or drive assembly component A36 and pitch adjustment component A34 sequentially.

[0069] In some embodiments, the drive component A35 can first drive the pitch adjustment component A34 to move, increasing the pitch (e.g., making the pitch larger than the wire size), allowing the wire within the pitch to disengage from the clamp. Then, it drives the assembly component A36 to move, switching the replaceable printhead A32 from a mating position to an unlocked position along the assembly direction, thus disassembling the replaceable printhead A32. Alternatively, the drive component A35 can first drive the assembly component A36 to move, switching the replaceable printhead A32 from an unlocked position to a mating position along the assembly direction, thus loading the replaceable printhead A32. Then, it drives the pitch adjustment component A34 to move, decreasing the pitch.

[0070] With this configuration, the drive component A35 can stagger the movement of the spacing adjustment component A34 and the assembly component A36 in a staggered manner. This can effectively prevent the feed line from remaining clamped during the process of the replaceable printhead A32 switching from the mating position to the unlocked position. This would prevent the feed line in the heating chamber of the replaceable printhead A32 from being pulled out and causing a blockage, or the feed line from obstructing the position switching process of the replaceable printhead A32.

[0071] To assemble the tool head A30, the replaceable print head A32 can be placed on the assembly component A36. The assembly component A36 is then driven by the drive component A35 to switch the replaceable print head A32 from the unlocked position to the mating position, thus installing the replaceable print head A32 on the tool head A30. The drive component A35 then drives the spacing adjustment component A34 to move, reducing the spacing and completing the material line installation. Alternatively, the replaceable print head A32 can be placed in the mounting position of the tool head A30, and the assembly component A35 can be driven by the drive component A35 to switch the assembly component A36 from the unlocked position to the mating position, locking the replaceable print head A32 in the mating position.

[0072] To disassemble the tool head A30, the drive component A35 drives the spacing adjustment component A34 to increase the spacing, thereby removing the feed line. Furthermore, the drive component A35 drives the assembly component A36, causing the replaceable print head A32 to switch from the mating position to the unlocked position, or causing the assembly component A36 to switch from the mating position to the unlocked position, thus allowing the replaceable print head A32 to be removed.

[0073] Understandably, the drive component A35 can be a power-providing element or structure that can be connected to the pitch adjustment component A34 and the assembly component A36 via a transmission mechanism, thereby driving the assembly component A36 and the pitch adjustment component A34 simultaneously or sequentially when providing power.

[0074] Of course, the drive unit A35 can also be two power-providing components or structures, one of which can provide power to the drive assembly A36 and the other can provide power to the pitch adjustment assembly A34.

[0075] For example, the drive unit A35 may include a rotary motor A351 and an assembly motor A352. The rotary motor A351 can drive the pitch adjustment component A34 to move, thereby increasing the pitch, for example, to a pitch larger than the thread size, allowing the thread within the pitch to disengage from the clamp. The assembly motor A352 can drive the assembly component A36 to move, enabling the replaceable printhead A32 to switch from a mating position to an unlocked position along the assembly direction, thus facilitating the removal of the replaceable printhead A32.

[0076] For example, the drive unit A35 may include a rotary motor A351 and an assembly motor A352. The assembly motor A352 can drive the assembly assembly A36 to move, so that the replaceable printhead A32 can be switched from an unlocked position to a mating position along the assembly direction, thereby loading the replaceable printhead A32. The rotary motor A351 can drive the pitch adjustment assembly A34 to move, so that the pitch is reduced.

[0077] In some embodiments, the drive component A35, such as the rotary motor A351, can first drive the pitch adjustment component A34 to move, thereby increasing the pitch, for example, by making the pitch larger than the size of the wire, so that the wire within the pitch can be disengaged from the clamp. Then, the drive component A35, such as the assembly motor A352, can drive the assembly component A36 to move, thereby switching the replaceable printhead A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction, thus enabling the disassembly of the replaceable printhead A32.

[0078] In some embodiments, the drive element A35, such as the assembly motor A352, can first drive the assembly assembly A36 to move, so that the replaceable printhead A32 switches from the unlocked position to the mating position along the assembly direction, thereby loading the replaceable printhead A32. Then, the drive element A35, such as the rotary motor A351, can drive the spacing adjustment assembly A34 to move, so that the spacing decreases.

[0079] In some embodiments, the assembly direction can be the height direction Z, the length direction X, or the width direction Y, etc.

[0080] In some embodiments, the assembly motor A352 may be omitted, and the assembly component A36 may be driven by the rotary motor A351, which is connected to the assembly component A36. Alternatively, the rotary motor A351 may be omitted, and the assembly motor A352 may be connected to the pitch adjustment component A34, which is connected to the pitch adjustment component A34.

[0081] It is understandable that the setting method of assembly component A36 and its cooperation method with other structures can also be referred to the setting method of spacing adjustment component A34 and its cooperation method with other structures. Correspondingly, the setting method of spacing adjustment component A34 and its cooperation method with other structures can also be referred to the setting method of assembly component A36 and its cooperation method with other structures, and will not be elaborated further.

[0082] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment shows a partial structural diagram of the tool head A30. The assembly component A36 may include an assembly part A361, one end of which is connected to the replaceable print head A32. A drive component A35 is drively connected to the assembly part A361 to drive its movement, thereby enabling it to move between a mating position and an unlocked position along the assembly direction, thus facilitating the loading and unloading of the replaceable print head A32. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the drive component A35 may directly drive the assembly part A361, thereby causing the replaceable print head A32 to move relative to the tool head A30 along the assembly direction between a mating position and an unlocked position.

[0083] It is understandable that the configuration of assembly A361 and its cooperation with other structures can also be referred to the configuration of moving part A341 and its cooperation with other structures. Correspondingly, the configuration of moving part A341 and its cooperation with other structures can also be referred to the configuration of assembly A361 and its cooperation with other structures, and will not be elaborated further.

[0084] In some embodiments, assembly A361 may be drivenly connected to assembly motor A352 so that assembly motor A352 drives assembly A361 to move. In some embodiments, rotary motor A351 may be drivenly connected to assembly A361 to drive assembly A361 to move.

[0085] In some embodiments, a replaceable printhead A32, such as a connector A321, can mate with an assembly component A36, such as an accessory A361, to achieve installation on a mounting base A31. In some embodiments, the connector A321 is detachably connected to the mounting base A31.

[0086] In some embodiments, the mounting accessory A361 is rotatable relative to the mounting base A31, enabling the mounting accessory A361 to move the replaceable printhead A32 between a mating position and an unlocked position. For example, the replaceable printhead A32 can move relative to the tool head A30 along the assembly direction between a mating position and an unlocked position.

[0087] To enable the drive component A35 to simultaneously or sequentially drive the assembly assembly A36 and the pitch adjustment assembly A34 via a power-providing element or structure, the assembly assembly A36 may further include an adjustment component A362. The adjustment component A362 can be driven by the assembly part A361 and the drive component A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, respectively. This allows the drive component A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, to be driven by the assembly part A361 via the adjustment component A362, thereby driving the assembly part A361 and further enabling it to move along the assembly direction between a mating position and an unlocked position. It also allows the replaceable printhead A32 to move relative to the tool head A30 along the assembly direction between a mating position and an unlocked position.

[0088] It is understandable that the setting method of the adjusting member A362 and its cooperation method with other structures can also be referred to the setting method of the rotating part A342 and its cooperation method with other structures, and correspondingly, the setting method of the adjusting member A362 and its cooperation method with other structures can also be referred to the setting method of the rotating part A342 and its cooperation method with other structures, and will not be described in detail.

[0089] Furthermore, the fitting and setting methods of assembly A361 and adjusting member A362 can also be found in the fitting and setting methods of moving part A341 and rotating part A342, and will not be elaborated further. Similarly, the fitting and setting methods of moving part A341 and rotating part A342 can also be found in the fitting and setting methods of assembly A361 and adjusting member A362, and will not be elaborated further.

[0090] Furthermore, the adjustment component A362 can be configured not only to enable the simultaneous or sequential driving of assembly component A36 and spacing adjustment component A34 using the same drive component A35, but also to change the transmission direction and method. Thus, the adjustment component A362 allows assembly motor A352 to be connected to assembly component A361 via the adjustment component A362. This further enables rotary motor A351 to be connected to spacing adjustment component A34.

[0091] Adjusting member A362 can be driven to assembly A361 and drive member A35, such as rotary motor A351 or assembly motor A352, respectively, so that drive member A35, such as rotary motor A351 or assembly motor A352, can be driven to assembly A361 through adjusting member A362.

[0092] In some embodiments, the adjusting member A362 may be mounted on the mounting base A31.

[0093] In some embodiments, the adjusting member A362 can move or rotate to cause the plug portion to slide along the assembly direction, so that the assembly part A361 can move between the mating position and the unlocked position. It can also cause the assembly part A361, for example the plug portion, to drive the replaceable print head A32 to move relative to the tool head A30, for example the mounting base A31, along the assembly direction between the mating position and the unlocked position.

[0094] In some embodiments, the adjusting member A362 can move the rotating part A3612 along the assembly direction by moving or rotating, so that the assembly part A361 can move between the mating position and the unlocked position. The rotating part A3612 can also drive the replaceable print head A32 to move relative to the tool head A30, such as the mounting base A31, along the assembly direction between the mating position and the unlocked position.

[0095] Adjusting member A362 may be provided with a first motion groove A3621, which extends along a first direction and along the assembly direction. The first motion groove A3621 has at least two positions with different heights, and the assembly part A361 is partially movably disposed within the first motion groove A3621. Driving member A35 drives adjusting member A362 to move along the first direction, so that the assembly part A361 mates with different groove wall areas of the first motion groove A3621, so that the assembly part A361 moves along the groove wall of the first motion groove A3621, thereby driving the replaceable printhead A32 to move relative to the tool head A30.

[0096] The first motion groove A3621 allows the assembly A361 to move along the groove wall of the first motion groove A3621, thereby allowing it to be located at different heights, such as different heights along the assembly direction. This allows the assembly A361 to be in different positions based on different heights, enabling the assembly A361 to move between the mating position and the unlocked position based on height adjustment. It also allows the assembly A361 to drive the replaceable printhead A32 to move relative to the tool head A30 along the assembly direction between the mating position and the unlocked position.

[0097] It should be noted that the terms used to describe the height, top, bottom, etc. of the first motion groove A3621 are relative to the assembly direction and the first direction. The assembly direction can be the gravity direction or the height direction Z, or the length direction X or the width direction Y, etc. In some embodiments, the first direction intersects with the assembly direction, for example, the first direction is perpendicular to the assembly direction.

[0098] In some embodiments, the adjusting member A362 may further include a first rack portion A3622. The driving member A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, drives the assembly part A361 to move along the extension direction of the first motion groove A3621.

[0099] The first rack portion A3622 can mesh with the drive wheel A363 for transmission, and the drive wheel A363 can be connected to the drive member A35 for transmission. Therefore, under the drive of the drive member A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, the first rack portion A3622 can move along the extending direction of the first motion groove A3621. In some embodiments, the first rack portion A3622 can be slidably connected to the mounting base A31.

[0100] In some embodiments, the assembly component A36 may further include a drive wheel A363. The drive wheel A363 and the assembly component A361 are arranged along the extending direction of the first motion groove A3621. The drive wheel A363 may be driven by a drive member A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352. Furthermore, the drive member A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, is driven by the drive wheel A363 to the adjusting member A362. In some embodiments, the drive wheel A363 may mesh with the adjusting member A362, such as a first rack portion A3622. Furthermore, under the drive of the drive member A35, such as a rotary motor A351 or an assembly motor A352, the adjusting member A362 is driven to move along the extending direction of the first motion groove A3621 by the engagement of the drive wheel A363 with the adjusting member A362, such as the first rack portion A3622.

[0101] In some embodiments, the first rack portion A3622 may be slidably connected to the mounting base A31. In some embodiments, the rotation axis of the drive wheel A363 may be perpendicular to the first direction. In a further embodiment, the drive wheel A363 may be a complete gear. In some embodiments, the rotation axis of the drive wheel A363 may be perpendicular to the first direction; for example, the drive wheel A363 may be a worm, and the first rack portion A3622 is provided with teeth that mesh with the worm.

[0102] In some embodiments, drive wheel A363 may be connected to motor A352 via a transmission.

[0103] In some embodiments, the drive wheel A363 may be a full gear, an incomplete gear, or a cam. In some embodiments, the adjusting member A362 may also be a lever structure.

[0104] In some embodiments, the tool head A30 can be detached from the replaceable print head A32 and attached to the holder A40 via the assembly assembly A36.

[0105] In some embodiments, the tool head A30 can load the replaceable print head A32 located on the placement rack A40 via the assembly assembly A36 and move the replaceable print head A32 so that the replaceable print head A32 leaves the placement rack A40.

[0106] This application also describes a mounting frame A40, which can be used in a 3D printer A100 to hold the replaceable print head A32 in the above embodiments. For example, in a scenario where the tool head A30 is equipped with the replaceable print head A32, the 3D printer A100 can place the replaceable print head A32 on the tool head A30 onto the mounting frame A40. For example, in a scenario where the replaceable print head A32 is placed on the mounting frame A40, the 3D printer A100 can load the replaceable print head A32 on the mounting frame A40 onto the tool head A30.

[0107] In some embodiments, during the process of placing the replaceable printhead A32 into the placement rack A40, the tool head A30 needs to move the replaceable printhead A32 to the alignment position of the placement rack A40, and then the 3D printer A100 can place the replaceable printhead A32 into the placement rack A40.

[0108] In some embodiments, during the loading of the replaceable printhead A32 located on the mounting frame A40, the tool head A30 needs to be moved to the alignment position of the mounting frame A40, and then the 3D printer A100 can load the replaceable printhead A32 on the mounting frame A40 onto the tool head A30.

[0109] In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 moves the replaceable print head A32 to the alignment position of the placement rack A40, the tool head A30 switches the replaceable print head A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position via the assembly component A36 and places it in the placement rack A40.

[0110] In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 moves to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, the tool head A30 switches the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40 from the unlocked position to the mating position through the assembly component A36, and loads the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40 onto the tool head A30.

[0111] In some embodiments, the placement and unlocking processes of the replaceable printhead A32 can be performed simultaneously, thereby reusing the unlocking process of the replaceable printhead A32 and simplifying the control actions and number of motion mechanisms of the 3D printer A100.

[0112] In some embodiments, the placement frame A40 can be moved to remove the replaceable printhead A32 from the tool head A30, thereby placing the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement frame A40. For example, in some embodiments, the placement frame A40 can be moved along the assembly direction to remove the replaceable printhead A32 from the tool head A30, thereby detaching the replaceable printhead A32 from the tool head A30 and placing the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement frame A40.

[0113] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 , Figure 8 for Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the placement rack A40 in some embodiments. Figure 11 for Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the placement rack A40 in other embodiments. Figure 12 for Figure 11 The illustrated embodiment is a structural diagram showing the mounting frame A40 and tool head A30 during the loading or unloading of the replaceable print head A32. Figure 13 for Figure 11 The illustrated embodiment is a structural diagram of the mounting frame A40 and tool head A30 during the loading or unloading of the replaceable printhead A32. The frame A41 can support structures mounted on the mounting frame A40, such as at least one positioning element A42, and of course, can also support the replaceable printhead A32. The positioning element A42 can cooperate with the replaceable printhead A32 during alignment or placement to limit the replaceable printhead A32 in at least one direction, effectively fixing the replaceable printhead A32 and enabling its placement.

[0114] The mounting frame A40, such as the frame A41, can be fixed to the body A10, or it can move relative to the body A10.

[0115] At least one positioning element A42 can be used with the replaceable printhead A32 through a structure design that achieves positioning by means of plug-in mating, position limiting, clamping and fixing, snap-fit ​​connection, magnetic mating or other separable and combinable means known to those skilled in the art, without further details.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least one positioning member A42 can limit the replaceable printhead A32 in at least one of the three directions: length direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z, thereby effectively fixing the replaceable printhead A32.

[0117] In some embodiments, at least one positioning member A42 can limit the replaceable printhead A32 in at least one of three directions: alignment direction, movement direction, or assembly direction, and effectively fix the replaceable printhead A32.

[0118] In some embodiments, one of the three directions—length direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z—can be an alignment direction, another can be a movement direction, and the last can be an assembly direction. It is understood that any one of the three directions—length direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z—can simultaneously be an alignment direction and a movement direction, or an assembly direction and a movement direction.

[0119] In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 moves the replaceable print head A32 to the alignment position of the placement rack A40, the tool head A30 or the replaceable print head A32 is aligned with the alignment position of the placement rack A40 along the alignment direction. In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 moves to the alignment position of the placement rack A40, it is aligned with the alignment position of the placement rack A40 along the alignment direction. In some embodiments, the alignment direction may be located in the plane defined by the length direction X and the width direction Y. In some embodiments, the alignment direction may be the length direction X and / or the width direction Y, and of course, it may be other directions, which will not be elaborated further.

[0120] In some embodiments, the assembly direction may be the direction in which the tool head A30 is assembled with the replaceable print head A32. In some embodiments, the assembly direction may be the direction in which the assembly assembly A36 is assembled with the replaceable print head A32.

[0121] In some embodiments, the direction of movement may lie within the plane defined by the length direction X and the width direction Y. In some embodiments, the direction of movement may be the length direction X or the width direction Y, and of course, other directions may also be used, which will not be elaborated further. In some embodiments, the direction of movement may be perpendicular to the alignment direction; for example, the direction of movement may be the width direction Y, and the alignment direction may be the length direction X. In some embodiments, the direction of movement may be perpendicular to the assembly direction.

[0122] Understandably, the tool head A30 carrying the replaceable printhead A32 can be moved along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, so that the tool head A30 or the replaceable printhead A32 can be aligned with the alignment position of the placement frame A40 along the alignment direction. Then, the replaceable printhead A32 is unlocked along the assembly direction and placed on the placement frame A40, so that the placement frame A40 can limit the replaceable printhead A32 in at least one direction by at least one positioning member A42, or it can limit the replaceable printhead A32 in three mutually perpendicular directions. For example, at least one of the three directions of length (X), width (Y), and height (Z) limits the replaceable printhead A32. For example, at least one of the three directions of alignment, movement, or assembly limits the replaceable printhead A32.

[0123] In some embodiments, the alignment direction is the width direction Y, the assembly direction is the gravity direction, and the movement direction is the length direction X.

[0124] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the alignment direction.

[0125] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a second positioning member A422, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the assembly direction.

[0126] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a third positioning member A423, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the direction of activity.

[0127] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 15 In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 is used to cooperate with the replaceable printhead A32 during the alignment or placement process of the replaceable printhead A32 to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the activity direction, which is perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction.

[0128] Understandably, during the alignment process, the replaceable printhead A32 moves along the alignment direction driven by the tool head A30, and its position in the alignment direction is constrained by the tool head A30. During placement, however, the replaceable printhead A32 moves along the assembly direction to be placed on the placement rack A40; the assembly direction is its placement movement direction. In contrast, the direction of movement is neither the alignment direction driven by the tool head A30 nor the assembly direction during placement; it is the direction in which the replaceable printhead A32 is relatively unconstrained at this stage. Therefore, by restricting the movement freedom of the third positioning component A423, on the one hand, it can provide the replacement printhead A32 with a limit and guide in the movement direction as early as possible, making its position more accurate during the alignment process and subsequent placement process, facilitating stable placement, and preventing placement failure due to movement direction shaking or inaccurate positioning, thus preventing the replacement printhead A32 from falling or shaking; on the other hand, restricting the movement direction will not interfere with the tool head's driving of the replacement printhead A32 along the alignment direction, nor will it hinder the placement movement of the replacement printhead A32 along the assembly direction, avoiding conflicts or jamming with the movement during the alignment and placement processes, making the pick-and-place process smoother and more reliable.

[0129] In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 is used to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the active direction during the alignment process in which the replaceable printhead A32 moves to the alignment position along the alignment direction Y. That is, the third positioning member A423 begins to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the active direction X during the alignment process in which the replaceable printhead A32 moves to the alignment position along the alignment direction Y.

[0130] Thus, the placement rack A40, through the positioning member A42, cooperates with the replaceable printhead A32 during the alignment or placement process to limit the replaceable printhead A32, which helps to improve the stability and fixation of the replaceable printhead A32 during the alignment or placement process and avoids shaking that could lead to placement failure. Among them, the third positioning member A423 limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the active direction, so that the replaceable printhead A32 is limited and guided in the active direction, preventing the replaceable printhead A32 from shaking in the active direction.

[0131] Understandably, during the alignment process, the replaceable printhead A32 moves along the alignment direction driven by the tool head A30, and its position in the alignment direction is constrained by the tool head. During placement, the replaceable printhead A32 moves along the assembly direction to be placed on the placement rack A40; the assembly direction is its placement direction, while the movement direction is relatively unconstrained during placement. Therefore, restricting the movement freedom of the movement direction by the third positioning element A423 provides, on the one hand, limiting and guiding the replaceable printhead A32 in the movement direction, making its position more accurate when aligned along the alignment direction and placed along the assembly direction, facilitating stable fixation of the replaceable printhead A32; on the other hand, restricting the movement direction neither interferes with the tool head A30's driving of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction nor hinders the placement movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the assembly direction, avoiding conflicts or jamming with the alignment and placement movements, making the pick-and-place process smoother and more reliable.

[0132] In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 includes two first sub-positioning portions A4231 spaced apart along the direction of movement, the gap between the two first sub-positioning portions A4231 being used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32. When the replaceable printhead A32 enters the alignment position along the alignment direction with the tool head A30, the replaceable printhead A32 enters the gap between the two first sub-positioning portions A4231, and is limited and guided by the first sub-positioning portions A4231 on both sides along the direction of movement, thereby limiting the replaceable printhead A32 in both directions of movement, further enhancing the stability of the replaceable printhead fixation.

[0133] In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 includes a second sub-positioning member A4232. Two second sub-positioning members A4232 are arranged at a distance along the movement direction, the distance between them being used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32, and the second sub-positioning members A4232 and the first sub-positioning part A4231 are spaced apart along the assembly direction. Thus, the second sub-positioning members A4232 and the first sub-positioning part A4231 jointly limit the replaceable printhead A32 in its movement direction at different positions along the assembly direction, thereby further preventing the replaceable printhead A32 from shaking or rotating on the placement frame A40.

[0134] Understandably, in some embodiments, the alignment direction is the width direction Y, the assembly direction is the gravity direction (i.e., the height direction), and the movement direction is the length direction X. The tool head A30 can move along the width direction Y to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, and then the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40 along the gravity direction. In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the width direction Y, and a second positioning member A422, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the gravity direction. Further, in some embodiments, the tool head A30 can move in the plane defined by the length direction X and the width direction Y for printing, and the positioning member A42 also includes a third positioning member A423, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 in the length direction X. Understandably, in some embodiments, the placement process of the replaceable printhead A32 includes a first positioning member A421 restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the width direction Y, and then a second positioning member A422 restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the direction of gravity. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 15 , Figure 15 for Figure 8 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of the placement rack A40 in other embodiments. The third positioning member A423 includes a first sub-positioning portion A4231, with two first sub-positioning portions A4231 arranged at intervals along the length direction X. The interval between the two first sub-positioning portions A4231 is used to accommodate a replaceable printhead A32. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 15 The third positioning element A423 includes a second sub-positioning element A4232. The two second sub-positioning elements A4232 are arranged at intervals along the length direction X, and the interval between the two second sub-positioning elements A4232 is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32.

[0135] Understandably, in some embodiments, the alignment direction is the width direction Y, and the assembly direction is the length direction X. The tool head A30 moves within the plane defined by the length direction X and the width direction Y to perform printing. The tool head A30 can move along the width direction Y to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, and then the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 along the length direction X on the placement frame A40. In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the width direction Y, and a second positioning member A422, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the length direction X. Understandably, in some embodiments, the placement process of the replaceable print head A32 includes the first positioning member A421 first restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the width direction Y, and then the second positioning member A422 restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the length direction X.

[0136] Understandably, in some embodiments, the alignment direction is the direction of gravity, the assembly direction is the width direction Y, and the movement direction is the length direction X. The tool head A30 moves within the plane defined by the length direction X and the width direction Y to perform printing. The tool head A30 and / or the placement frame A40 can move along the direction of gravity so that the tool head A30 is positioned in the aligned position of the placement frame A40. Subsequently, the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40 along the width direction Y. In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the direction of gravity, and a second positioning member A422, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the width direction Y. Further, in some embodiments, the positioning member A42 also includes a third positioning member A423, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 in the length direction X. Understandably, in some embodiments, the placement process of the replaceable printhead A32 includes firstly restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the direction of gravity by a first positioning member A421, and then secondly restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the width direction Y by a second positioning member A422. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 15 The third positioning member A423 includes a first sub-positioning portion A4231. Two first sub-positioning portions A4231 are arranged at a distance along the length direction X, and the distance between the two first sub-positioning portions A4231 is used to accommodate a replaceable printhead A32. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 15 The third positioning element A423 includes a second sub-positioning element A4232. The two second sub-positioning elements A4232 are arranged at intervals along the length direction X, and the interval between the two second sub-positioning elements A4232 is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32.

[0137] Understandably, in some embodiments, the alignment direction is the direction of gravity, and the assembly direction is the length direction X. The tool head A30 moves or extends within the plane defined by the direction of gravity and the length direction X for printing. The tool head A30 and / or the placement frame A40 can move along the direction of gravity so that the tool head A30 is positioned in the alignment position of the placement frame A40. Subsequently, the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40 along the length direction X. In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the direction of gravity, and a second positioning member A422, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the length direction X. Understandably, in some embodiments, the placement process of the replaceable printhead A32 includes a first positioning member A421 first restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the direction of gravity, and then a second positioning member A422 restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the length direction X.

[0138] In some embodiments, the tool head A30 is capable of moving the replaceable print head A32 along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40. In a further embodiment, the 3D printer A100, for example, the assembly component A36, unlocks the replaceable print head A32, such that the replaceable print head A32 is placed on the placement frame A40. In some embodiments, the tool head A30, for example, the assembly component A36, is capable of switching the replaceable print head A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction and placing it on the placement frame A40. It is understood that in some embodiments, the placement process is performed simultaneously with the unlocking process of the replaceable print head A32, thus reusing the unlocking process of the replaceable print head A32 and simplifying the control actions and the number of motion mechanisms.

[0139] In some embodiments, the tool head A30 is capable of moving the replaceable print head A32 along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40. In a further embodiment, the 3D printer A100, for example, the placement frame A40, is movable such that the replaceable print head A32 is placed on the placement frame A40. In some embodiments, the placement frame A40 is capable of engaging with the replaceable print head A32 in an unlocked state, and by movement of the tool head A30 and / or the placement frame A40, the replaceable print head A32 is detached from the tool head A30 and placed on the placement frame A40.

[0140] In some embodiments, similar to the foregoing embodiments, both the tool head A30 and the placement rack A40 are movable, and they work together to remove the replaceable print head A32 from the tool head A30 and place it on the placement rack A40, which will not be described in detail here.

[0141] In some embodiments, the tool head A30 is configured to move the replaceable print head A32 to the alignment position of the placement frame A40 along the alignment direction. In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 moves the replaceable print head A32 to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40, and / or the tool head A30 picks up the replaceable print head A32 from the placement frame A40 and continues printing after leaving the alignment position.

[0142] In some embodiments, after the tool head A30 is configured to move the replaceable print head A32 to the alignment position of the placement rack A40, the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement rack A40.

[0143] In some embodiments, after the replaceable printhead A32 is placed on the mounting bracket A40, the replaceable printhead A32 is not yet completely misaligned from the tool head A30. For example, the replaceable printhead A32 is mounted on the tool head A30 along the length direction X. In the assembled state or after the replaceable printhead A32 is placed on the mounting bracket A40, the projections of the tool head A30 and the replaceable printhead A32 along the width direction Y still overlap, which restricts the movement of the tool head A30, for example, restricting the tool head A30 from moving along the width direction Y, so that the tool head A30 can only move along the alignment direction. After the tool head A30 moves along the alignment direction, so that the distance between the tool head A30 and the mounting bracket A40 reaches a preset value, the replaceable printhead A32 and the tool head A30 are completely misaligned, which allows the replaceable printhead A32 to detach from the tool head A30. This releases the restriction on the movement of the tool head A30 in the printing plane, allowing the tool head A30 to continue moving in the printing plane.

[0144] After the tool head A30 is set to move the replaceable print head A32 along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, the 3D printer A100 switches the replaceable print head A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction and places it on the placement frame A40.

[0145] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 15 At least one positioning element A42 may include a first positioning element A421. The first positioning element A421 may be disposed on the placement frame A40 and used to cooperate with the replaceable printhead A32 to limit the position of the replaceable printhead A32, and may also be used for mounting the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement frame A40, for example, the frame A41.

[0146] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 may include a first positioning member A421, which limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the alignment direction, thereby limiting the replaceable printhead A32 along the alignment direction. In some embodiments, the replaceable printhead A32 may be provided with a hook, and the first positioning member A421 may be provided with a slot; alternatively, the assembly portion of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the first assembly portion A3251, may be provided with a slot, and the first positioning member A421 may be a hook. Furthermore, the hook can be placed within the slot, achieving a limiting engagement between the first positioning member A421 and the replaceable printhead A32, such as the first assembly portion A3251. In some embodiments, the slot may also be provided on the frame A41, engaging with the first assembly portion A3251 of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the hook. In some embodiments, the first assembly portion A3251 of the replaceable printhead A32 may be a pin, and the first positioning member A421 may be provided with a slot; alternatively, the replaceable printhead A32, for example, the first assembly portion A3251, may be provided with a slot, and the first positioning member A421 may be a pin. Furthermore, the pin can be placed within the slot to achieve a limiting engagement between the first positioning member A421 and the replaceable printhead A32, for example, the first assembly portion A3251. In some embodiments, the slot may also be provided on the frame A41 to engage with the pin of the replaceable printhead A32, for example, the first assembly portion A3251.

[0147] In some embodiments, the replaceable printhead A32, such as the first assembly part A3251, may be provided with a magnetic element (i.e., a magnetic force element), and the first positioning member A421 may be a magnetic element. The magnetic elements are then attracted to each other through the magnetic field between them, achieving connection and further enabling the first positioning member A421 to limit the positioning of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the first assembly part A3251. In some embodiments, the magnetic element may be a magnet, such as an electromagnet, a permanent magnet, or a structure made of a magnetically conductive material.

[0148] In some embodiments, the placement rack A40 is provided with multiple replacement printhead A32 placement positions, with different placement positions corresponding to different replacement printheads A32. The third positioning member A423 pre-limits the movement direction to prevent the replacement printheads A32 from wobbling along the movement direction during placement, and to avoid collisions with the replacement printheads A32 in adjacent placement positions or the structure of the placement rack A40.

[0149] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 15 The positioning member A42 may include a second positioning member A422, which can define the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the assembly direction. In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 can also define the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the activity direction.

[0150] In some embodiments, the assembly portion of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252, may be provided with a hook, and the second positioning member A422 may be provided with a slot; alternatively, the assembly portion of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252, may be provided with a slot, and the second positioning member A422 may be a hook. Furthermore, the hook can be placed within the slot, achieving a limiting engagement between the second positioning member A422 and the assembly portion of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252. In some embodiments, the slot may also be provided on the frame A41, engaging with the second assembly portion A3252 of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the hook. In some embodiments, the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252, may be provided with a pin, and the second positioning member A422 may be provided with a slot; alternatively, the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252, may be provided with a slot, and the second positioning member A422 may be a pin. Furthermore, the pin can be placed within the slot to achieve a limiting engagement between the second positioning member A422 and the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly part A3252. In some embodiments, the slot may also be provided on the frame A41 to engage with the pin of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly part A3252.

[0151] In some embodiments, one of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252, and the second positioning member A422 may be provided with a magnetic element, and the other may be provided with a magnet. The magnetic field between the magnetic element and the magnet attracts the printhead, achieving connection and further enabling the second positioning member A422 to limit the movement of the replaceable printhead A32, such as the second assembly portion A3252. It is understood that the magnet can be a permanent magnet or electromagnet that provides the magnetic field, and the magnetic element can be a magnet or other object that can be attracted by a magnetic field.

[0152] Please see Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 14 for Figure 12The diagram shows an exploded view of the placement frame A40 in some embodiments. During the movement of the tool head A30 to the alignment position, the second positioning member A422 is movable, allowing space for the replaceable print head A32, thus not limiting its movement and releasing the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction. In some embodiments, after the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40, the second positioning member A422, under the action of the power member A424, limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction. That is, the second positioning member A422 is driven by the tool head A30 and overcomes the force of the power member A424, so that the second positioning member A422 moves to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction, or the power member A424 actively drives the second positioning member A422 to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction, or the power member A424 actively drives the second positioning member A422 to a position that limits the replaceable print head A32.

[0153] In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 can move from a position that releases the replaceable printhead A32's degree of freedom of movement along the assembly direction to a position that limits the replaceable printhead A32, or it can move from a position that limits the replaceable printhead A32 to a position that releases the replaceable printhead A32's degree of freedom of movement along the assembly direction.

[0154] In some embodiments, the placement rack A40 may further include a power member A424, which provides a locking force to move the second positioning member A422 toward locking the replaceable printhead A32. By receiving an activity signal, the power member A424 drives the second positioning member A422 to move, thereby switching between restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the assembly direction and releasing the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the assembly direction.

[0155] In some embodiments, the power member A424 may be at least one of an elastic member, an electromagnetic member, a magnetic member, or an electric drive device, and drives the second positioning member A422 to move by directly driving the second positioning member A422 or by being connected to the second positioning member A422 in a transmission manner.

[0156] In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 may have an abutment portion A4221. The abutment portion A4221 engages or disengages with the replaceable printhead A32 or the tool head A30 to lock or unlock the replaceable printhead A32. In some embodiments, the tool head A30 or the replaceable printhead A32 has a trigger portion that engages with the abutment portion A4221 as the tool head A30 approaches the placement holder A40. The trigger portion pushes the abutment portion A4221 and overcomes the locking force provided by the power member A424 as the tool head A30 moves toward the placement holder A40, thereby moving the second positioning member A422 to make way for the replaceable printhead A32. This allows the replaceable printhead A32 to move to the alignment position and releases the replaceable printhead A32's freedom of movement along the assembly direction. This ensures that the second positioning member A422 does not obstruct the movement of the tool head A30 or the replaceable printhead A32 during the process of the tool head A30 moving the replaceable printhead A32 to the alignment position of the placement holder A40. The engagement between the triggering part and the contacting part A4221 can be a continuous, gradual engagement or a one-time trigger engagement, etc. This application does not limit the engagement method.

[0157] In some embodiments, when the tool head A30 moves the replaceable printhead A32 to the alignment position and switches the replaceable printhead A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction, the tool head A30 leaves the placement rack A40 along the alignment direction. The trigger part and the abutment part A4221 disengage, causing the power member A424 to release the locking force on the second positioning member A422. This causes the second positioning member A422 to move in the direction of locking the replaceable printhead A32, thereby restricting the degree of freedom of the replaceable printhead A32 in the assembly direction. Through the cooperation of the abutment part A4221, the trigger part, and the power member A424, the tool head A30 is not interfered with by the second positioning member A422 during the alignment process of moving the replaceable printhead A32 to the alignment position. When the tool head A30 places the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement rack A40 and leaves the placement rack A40 along the alignment direction, the second positioning member A422 can move to the position where the replaceable printhead A32 is limited under the drive of the power member.

[0158] The triggering part overcoming and releasing the locking force of the power member A424 can take various forms, and this application is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 can move relative to the placement frame A40, and the triggering part cooperates with the abutment part A4221. The power member A424 is a compression spring and is disposed between the second positioning member A422 and the frame A41. In some embodiments, the frame A41 is connected to the fixing member A426, and the fixing member A426 can be fitted with a compression spring, such that one end of the compression spring abuts against the fixing member A426 and the other end abuts against the second positioning member A422. Thus, driven by the compression spring, the second positioning member A422 moves relative to the placement frame A40. By compressing the spring during the movement of the second positioning member A422, the spring can provide a locking force for the second positioning member A422 to move in the direction of locking the replaceable printhead A32. After the tool head A30 or the replaceable printhead A32 disengages from the abutment part A4221, the spring can drive the abutment part A4221 to move the second positioning member A4222 in the direction of locking the replaceable printhead A32, thereby restricting the degree of freedom of the replaceable printhead A32 in the assembly direction.

[0159] In some embodiments, the placement rack A40 is provided with a receiving area for accommodating the fixing member A426 and the moved second positioning member A422 and power member A424, so that the second positioning member A422 makes way for the tool head A30 and the replaceable print head A32, which is beneficial to making full use of the internal space of the placement rack A40 and to miniaturizing the whole machine and making it neat in appearance.

[0160] In some embodiments, the placement rack A40 is provided with a mounting plate A425 at the position corresponding to the receiving area, and the fastener A426, the second positioning member A422, and the power member A424 are installed in the receiving area by disassembly. The mounting plate A425 is used to block the opening of the receiving area, and the second positioning member A422 can also be inserted through a perforation to make way for the second positioning member A422.

[0161] In some embodiments, the 3D printer A100 has an opening A1001 to connect the interior of the 3D printer A100 with the outside. Users can adjust or repair internal structures such as the mounting frame A40 and tool head A30 through the opening A1001. The mounting frame A40 is also provided with an unlocking part A4223, with the side of the mounting frame A40 having the unlocking part A4223 facing the opening A1001 of the 3D printer A100. Users can adjust the second positioning member A422 through the opening A1001, overcoming the locking force provided by the power member A424, allowing the second positioning member A422 to move and releasing the restriction on the degree of freedom of the replaceable print head A32 in the assembly direction. This allows users to manually remove the replaceable print head A32 from the mounting frame A40, facilitating adjustments and maintenance.

[0162] In some embodiments, the power component A424 is a compression spring, and the second positioning component A422 is provided with an unlocking part A4223. The user can move the second positioning component A4222 by pulling the unlocking part A4223, moving it in a direction that releases the degree of freedom of the replaceable printhead A32 in the assembly direction. By activating the second positioning component A422 to compress the compression spring, the spring provides a locking force to the second positioning component A422 in the direction of locking the replaceable printhead A32. When the user releases the force applied to the unlocking part A4223, the spring can drive the second positioning component A422 to move in the direction of locking the replaceable printhead A32, thereby restricting the degree of freedom of the replaceable printhead A32 in the assembly direction. By providing an unlocking part A4223 that can be manually released from locking the replaceable printhead A32, the flexibility of adjusting or repairing the 3D printer A100 is increased. Furthermore, by positioning the unlocking part A4223 on the side of the mounting bracket A40 facing the opening A1001, the convenience of adjustment or repair for the user is increased.

[0163] In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 is further provided with a limiting portion A4222 to cooperate with the assembly portion A325, such as the third assembly portion A3254, to limit the degree of freedom of the replaceable printhead A32 in the assembly direction. In some embodiments, the limiting portion A4222 may be a plug-in post, and the assembly portion A325, such as the third assembly portion A3254, is provided with a plug-in hole to achieve limiting when the plug-in post is inserted into the plug-in hole.

[0164] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 includes a third positioning member A423, which can define the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the direction of activity.

[0165] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 15 The third positioning member A423 includes a first sub-positioning portion A4231. Two first sub-positioning portions A4231 are arranged at intervals along the length direction X, and the interval between the two first sub-positioning portions A4231 is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32. In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 includes a second sub-positioning member A4232. Two second sub-positioning members A4232 are arranged at intervals along the length direction X, and the interval between the two second sub-positioning members A4232 is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead A32, and the second sub-positioning members A4232 and the first sub-positioning portions A4231 are spaced apart along the assembly direction. Thus, the second sub-positioning members A4232 and the first sub-positioning portions A4231 respectively jointly limit the replaceable printhead A32 in the direction of movement at different positions along the assembly direction, thereby further preventing the replaceable printhead A32 from shaking or rotating on the placement frame A40.

[0166] In some embodiments, the third positioning member A423 may be connected to the first positioning member A421, or the third positioning member A423 may also be referred to as the second positioning member A422, or the second positioning member A422 may also be referred to as the third positioning member A423.

[0167] Furthermore, in a further embodiment, the placement rack A40 may also include a power component that cooperates with the third positioning member A423. The cooperation method between the third positioning member A423 and the power component is similar to the cooperation method between the second positioning member A422 and the power component, and will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the second positioning member A422 and the third positioning member A423 may be driven by the power component A424.

[0168] In some embodiments, multiple replaceable printheads A32 are arranged along the direction of movement. Since the direction of movement is perpendicular to both the alignment and assembly directions, arranging the replaceable printheads A32 along this direction ensures that the arrangement, alignment, and placement processes of the replaceable printheads A32 are uninterrupted. This facilitates the tool head A30's sequential handling of each replaceable printhead A32 and ensures the orderly arrangement of the feed tubes connected to each replaceable printhead A32, preventing the feed tubes from becoming tangled and interfering with the printing process. This allows the placement rack A40 to simultaneously hold multiple replaceable printheads A32, enabling the 3D printer to easily switch between them based on filament type, color, or maintenance needs, thus meeting multi-color or multi-material printing requirements.

[0169] In some embodiments, the positioning member further includes a second positioning member A422, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction; after the 3D printer places the replaceable print head A32 on the placement frame A40, the second positioning member A422 limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction under the action of the power member A424.

[0170] Specifically, during the alignment process of the tool head A30 moving along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40, the replaceable print head A32 enters the gap between the two first sub-positioning parts A4231, and the third positioning member A423 restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the active direction; after the replaceable print head A32 is placed on the placement frame A40, the second positioning member A422 further restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction. In other words, the third positioning member A423 limits the replaceable print head before the second positioning member A422.

[0171] This design serves two purposes. First, after placement, the second positioning element A422 is held in place by the power element A424, which maintains the assembly direction. This eliminates the need for continuous force from the tool head A30, ensuring the replaceable printhead A32 is stably fixed to the placement frame A40 and preventing it from easily falling off or loosening along the assembly direction. Second, the pre-limiting position of the third positioning element A423 in the moving direction improves placement accuracy, preventing the replaceable printhead A32 from shifting along the moving direction during its movement along the assembly direction, thus avoiding placement misalignment. Furthermore, when the second positioning element A422 uses a magnetic suction device, the pre-limiting position in the moving direction allows the magnetic suction device to accurately engage along the assembly direction, preventing the magnetic force from generating a skewed component along the moving direction and reducing interference to the replaceable printhead A32 during placement.

[0172] In some embodiments, the positioning member A42 further includes a first positioning member A421, which defines the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead A32 along the alignment direction. After the 3D printer A100 places the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement rack A40, the first positioning member A421 restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction.

[0173] The tool head is configured to move the replaceable print head A32 along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame A40. The 3D printer A100 switches the replaceable print head A32 from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction and places it on the placement frame A40. The third positioning member A423 restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the movement direction. After the replaceable print head A32 is placed on the placement frame A40, the first positioning member A421 further restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head A32 along the alignment direction.

[0174] With this configuration, the first positioning element A421 and the third positioning element A423 cooperate to limit the replaceable printhead A32 in both the alignment and movement directions. The third positioning element A423 first restricts the movement direction during alignment, which helps the replaceable printhead A32 to accurately position itself along the alignment direction. This allows the first positioning element A421 to reliably limit the alignment direction after positioning, improving the positioning accuracy and fixing reliability in the alignment direction. Furthermore, when the first positioning element A421 uses a magnetic suction device, the pre-limiting in the movement direction also facilitates accurate magnetic attraction, preventing the magnetic force from generating a skewed component along the movement direction and reducing interference to the replaceable printhead A32 during placement.

[0175] Please see Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 , Figure 16 for Figure 15 A partially enlarged view of the placement frame A40 and the replaceable printhead A32 in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 17 for Figure 15 The diagram shown illustrates the engagement of the placement rack A40 and the replaceable printhead A32 in the embodiment illustrated. Figure 18 for Figure 17 The illustrated embodiment shows a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the placement frame A40 and the replaceable printhead A32 in conjunction. For the replaceable printhead A32 and the second positioning member A422, the second mounting portion A3252 of the replaceable printhead A32, for example, a magnetic element, extends along the assembly direction towards the surface of the second positioning member A422, for example, a magnetic element, and tilts towards the side closer to the placement frame A40. Conversely, the second positioning member A422, for example, a magnetic element, extends along the assembly direction towards the surface of the second mounting portion A3252 of the replaceable printhead A32, for example, a magnetic element, and tilts towards the side closer to the tool head A30. Therefore, during the alignment or placement of the replaceable printhead A32, the magnetic lines of force of the magnet are tilted relative to the magnetic element, resulting in a smaller attraction. Until the replaceable printhead A32 is at or about to be in the mating position, the magnetic lines of force are closer to the magnetic element, resulting in a larger attraction. This makes the position of the replaceable printhead A32 less susceptible to interference from the magnet during placement. That is, the overall extending plane of the surface of any magnetic element forms an angle with the assembly direction. The overall extension plane of the magnet is the fitted plane of the surface facing the magnet. It represents the approximate direction of the surface as a whole and is perpendicular to the normal of the surface. It can be obtained by using the least squares method, edge line fitting, or other methods to find the ideal plane passing through the average position of all points on the surface. For example, for a plane, the fitted plane is a plane; for a curved surface, the fitted plane can be the line connecting the two edges of the curved surface as a reference, extending into a plane; the same applies to concave, convex, or walled surfaces, which will not be elaborated here.

[0176] In some embodiments, at least one of the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252 includes two magnetic regions on its surface. Exemplarily, the side of the magnet facing the magnetic element includes two magnetic regions with opposite polarities, ensuring a strong magnetic force while reducing the divergence range of the magnetic field lines, thereby reducing the influence of the magnet on the placement process and making it less likely to cause placement deviation.

[0177] In some embodiments, at least one of the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252 has two magnetic regions on its surface, which are arranged toward the assembly direction, so that in the mating state, the magnetic attraction along the assembly direction is greater and the positioning is more stable.

[0178] In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of the overall extending plane of the magnet and the magnetic element relative to the assembly direction is the same. Thus, during the process of the 3D printer A100 placing the replaceable print head A32 along the assembly direction onto the placement frame A40, the direction of the attractive force between the magnet and the magnetic element is parallel to the direction of movement. This facilitates the stability of the magnet and the magnetic element during the magnetic attraction process, and promotes the accurate engagement of the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252, avoiding the possibility of placement position deviation or inaccurate placement caused by the skewed component of the magnetic force.

[0179] In some embodiments, in the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252, the inclined angle α of the overall extension plane of at least one of the two magnetic elements relative to the assembly direction ranges from 5° to 90°. Of course, the inclined angle α can also range from 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70° or 80°.

[0180] In some embodiments, in the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252, the overall extension plane of the surface of at least one of the two magnetic elements has an inclination angle α relative to the assembly direction ranging from 15° to 40°. Of course, the inclination angle α can also be 16°, 18°, 25°, 28°, 35°, or 38°, etc.

[0181] In some embodiments, in the second positioning member A422 and the second assembly part A3252, the angle α of the overall extension plane of the surface of at least one of the two magnetic elements relative to the assembly direction ranges from 60°-70° or 35°-55° or 25°-50° or 30°-70° or 22°-40° or 45°-65°, etc.

[0182] In some implementations, the replaceable printhead A32 may not include the drive unit A35, thus enabling weight reduction. However, this weight reduction also makes the replaceable printhead A32 more prone to wobbling, thus requiring at least one positioning unit A42 for omnidirectional restraint.

[0183] Please see Figure 19 , Figure 19 This is a partial structural diagram of the 3D printer A100 in some embodiments of this application. The control method for the 3D printer A100 includes: 3D printer A100 includes a tool head A30 equipped with a replaceable print head A32. The replaceable print head A32 includes a heating chamber and a nozzle. The heating chamber heats the filament into a molten state and outputs it through the nozzle to a heated bed for layer-by-layer printing in the height direction. Replacing the tool head A30 with the replaceable print head A32 includes: The placement rack A40 lowers the replaceable printhead A32 along the height direction so that the replaceable printhead A32 is aligned with the unlocked position on the tool head A30; During or before the placement rack A40 descends, control the heated bed to descend a preset distance.

[0184] In some embodiments, when the printing height is between 0-20mm, the tool head A30 controls the heated bed to descend a preset distance when replacing the replaceable print head A32. In the early stages of printing, the replaceable print head A32 is prone to colliding with protruding parts of the heated bed or printing panel, such as the wiping nozzle area, the flushing area, and the marking area.

[0185] In some embodiments, the placement rack A40 includes a blocking assembly A43 for cooperating with the replaceable printhead A32 during placement to block the nozzle exit during at least partial placement. Understandably, due to the presence of the blocking assembly A43, the lowest position of the replaceable printhead A32 on the placement rack A40 corresponding to the placement rack A40 is lower than the lowest position of the nozzle of the replaceable printhead A32 on the tool head A30. Therefore, without lowering the heated bed, the placement rack A40 will collide with the heated bed or print panel after descent.

[0186] In some embodiments, the control method for the 3D printer A100 includes: 3D printer A100 includes a tool head A30 equipped with a replaceable print head A32. The replaceable print head A32 includes a heating chamber and a nozzle. The heating chamber heats the filament into a molten state and outputs it through the nozzle to a heated bed for layer-by-layer printing in the height direction. Replacing the tool head A30 with the replaceable print head A32 includes: The placement rack A40 lowers the replaceable printhead A32 along the height direction so that the replaceable printhead A32 is aligned with the unlocked position on the tool head A30; During or before the placement rack A40 descends, control the heated bed to descend a preset distance.

Claims

1. A mounting rack for a 3D printer including a tool head, the tool head being capable of mounting a replaceable print head, characterized in that, The tool head is configured to move the replaceable print head along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement frame, and then the 3D printer switches the replaceable print head from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction and places it on the placement frame. The placement frame includes a frame and a positioning element. The positioning element is used to cooperate with the replaceable printhead during the alignment or placement process of the replaceable printhead to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead. The positioning element includes a third positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the active direction, the active direction being perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction.

2. The placement rack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third positioning element is used to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the activity direction during the alignment process in which the replaceable printhead moves to the alignment position along the alignment direction.

3. The placement rack according to claim 2, characterized in that, The third positioning element includes at least two first sub-positioning parts, which are arranged at intervals along the direction of movement, and the interval between the two first sub-positioning parts is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead.

4. The placement rack according to claim 2, characterized in that, The third positioning element includes at least two second sub-positioning elements, which are arranged at intervals along the direction of movement. The interval between the two second sub-positioning elements is used to accommodate the replaceable printhead, and the second sub-positioning elements and the first sub-positioning element are spaced apart along the assembly direction.

5. The placement rack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting frame has multiple replaceable printhead placement positions, and the multiple replaceable printheads are arranged along the direction of movement.

6. The placement rack according to claim 5, characterized in that, The positioning element further includes a second positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction; After the 3D printer places the replaceable printhead on the mounting frame, the second positioning member, under the action of the power member, limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction.

7. The placement rack according to claim 5, characterized in that, The positioning element further includes a first positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction; After the 3D printer places the replaceable printhead on the mounting frame, the first positioning element restricts the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction.

8. The placement rack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning element includes a first positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction.

9. The placement rack according to claim 8, characterized in that, The replaceable printhead and the first positioning component can be either a hook or a slot that engages with the hook; or, either a pin or a slot that engages with the pin; or, either a magnet or an electromagnet or a magnetic element.

10. The placement rack according to claim 8, characterized in that, The positioning element further includes a second positioning element, which is used to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction; The placement process of the replaceable printhead includes the first positioning member restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction, and then the second positioning member restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction.

11. The placement rack according to claim 10, characterized in that, The replaceable printhead and the second positioning component can be either a hook or a slot that engages with the hook. Alternatively, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning component may be a pin, and the other may be a slot that engages with the pin. Alternatively, one of the replaceable printhead and the second positioning element may be a magnet, and the other may be a magnetic element.

12. The placement rack according to claim 11, characterized in that, During the movement of the tool head to the alignment position, the second positioning element moves to release the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction; After the 3D printer places the replaceable printhead on the mounting frame, the second positioning member, under the action of the power member, limits the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the assembly direction.

13. The placement rack according to claim 12, characterized in that, The power component is at least one of an elastic component, an electromagnetic component, a magnetic component, and an electric drive device; during the process of the tool head moving to the alignment position, the second positioning component moves to release the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction, including: the second positioning component is driven by the tool head and overcomes the force of the power component, so that the second positioning component moves to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction, or the power component actively drives the second positioning component to move to a position that releases the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable print head along the assembly direction.

14. The placement rack according to claim 11, characterized in that, The replaceable printhead and the second positioning element can be either a magnet or a magnetic element. The magnet is tilted away from the assembly direction from the surface of the magnetic element, and the surface of the magnetic element is tilted towards the magnet.

15. The placement rack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The overall extending plane of the magnet toward the surface of the magnetic element forms an angle with the assembly direction.

16. The placement rack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The side of the magnet facing the magnetic element includes two magnetic regions with opposite polarities.

17. The placement rack according to claim 16, characterized in that, The two magnetic regions are arranged facing the assembly direction.

18. The placement rack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The angle of inclination of the integral extension plane of the magnet and the magnetic element relative to the assembly direction is the same.

19. The placement rack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The angle between the overall extension plane of the magnet and magnetic element and the assembly direction is in the range of 5°-90°.

20. The placement rack according to claim 19, characterized in that, The angle between the overall extension plane of the magnet and magnetic element and the assembly direction is in the range of 15°-40°.

21. A 3D printer, characterized in that, include: A replaceable printhead includes a heating chamber and a nozzle, wherein the heating chamber is used to heat the feed line into a molten state and output the printed material through the nozzle; A placement rack for holding the replaceable printhead; A tool head, the tool head including a drive component and an assembly component, the assembly component being used to adjust the position of the replaceable print head relative to the tool head to a mating position; The tool head is configured to move the replaceable printhead along the alignment direction to the alignment position of the placement rack. The assembly assembly is also used to switch the replaceable printhead from the mating position to the unlocked position along the assembly direction, so as to place the replaceable printhead on the placement rack. The third positioning element is used to cooperate with the replaceable printhead during the alignment or placement process of the replaceable printhead to limit the degree of freedom of movement of the replaceable printhead along the active direction, which is perpendicular to both the alignment direction and the assembly direction.

22. The 3D printer according to claim 21, characterized in that, The assembly includes an assembly part, one end of which is connected to the replaceable printhead; the drive component is connected to the assembly part in a transmission connection to drive the assembly part to move.

23. The 3D printer according to claim 22, characterized in that, The assembly component also includes an adjusting member, which is connected to both the assembly part and the driving member in a transmission manner.

24. The 3D printer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The adjusting member moves or rotates to cause the plug-in part to slide along the assembly direction, so that the assembly moves between the mating position and the unlocking position.

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