Multi-functional printhead and structural circuit integrated additive and subtractive device and application method

Abstract

This invention provides a multi-functional printhead, including a connector and a structural printing module, a three-dimensional wire printing module, and an electrical functional graphic printing module disposed on the connector. The structural printing module is used to print the load-bearing structure, the three-dimensional wire printing module is used to print three-dimensional wires, and the electrical functional graphic printing module is used to print electrical functional graphics. This invention also provides an integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment and application method for structure and circuitry, including the multi-functional printhead. The equipment includes a multi-functional printhead, a subtractive manufacturing mechanism, and a printing platform. The printing platform carries the workpiece to be printed and can move linearly along the X and Y axes and rotate around the Y and Z axes. The multi-functional printhead and the subtractive manufacturing mechanism are distributed above the printing platform and can move linearly along the Z axis and rotate around the Y axis. This invention integrates three sets of printing modules with different functions, realizing the integrated manufacturing of the load-bearing structure, three-dimensional wires, and surface-based electrical functional graphics on a single device, improving production efficiency and manufacturing accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of additive manufacturing technology, specifically relating to a multi-functional printhead, and an integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment and application method including a multi-functional printhead and its structure and circuitry. Background Technology

[0002] Multifunctional components in aerospace and other fields require the integration of load-bearing structures, conductive lines, and electrical functional graphics, placing higher demands on manufacturing equipment. Structural-circuit integrated manufacturing offers a new approach to achieving this goal. However, a multifunctional integrated manufacturing device capable of simultaneously printing load-bearing structures, three-dimensional conductive lines, and electrical functional graphics while meeting high precision and high surface quality requirements still lacks a suitable solution. Patent CN111940732B discloses a device and method for joint printing of uniform microdroplets / polymer spatial circuits. The polymer printing component, uniform metal microdroplet jetting component, and laser are all fixed to the top of the glove box interior via cantilever beams. Upon receiving a control signal, the laser remelts the metal lines that have been deposited and solidified on the hot bed. However, this method can only manufacture conductive lines and cannot meet the requirements of integrated structural-circuit manufacturing. Patent CN220146695U discloses an additive-subtractive integrated manufacturing device that can perform both additive and subtractive processing on a single machine. However, it relies on changing tools to switch processes, making continuous collaborative manufacturing of load-bearing structures, three-dimensional conductive lines, and electrical functional graphics impossible. Furthermore, it suffers from low processing efficiency and poor positioning accuracy.

[0003] Additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment often employs robotic arms. However, due to inherent limitations such as low rigidity and poor control precision of the robotic arms, manufacturing accuracy is low, making it difficult to meet the manufacturing requirements of high-precision parts. Patent CN111827683A discloses a multi-head 3D printing device for concrete construction. This six-axis robot adds concrete and reinforcing steel layer by layer by changing the end effector. However, it can only print a single material in a time-sharing manner and relies on an external measurement system, resulting in insufficient control precision and failing to meet the manufacturing precision requirements of the aerospace industry. Therefore, this invention provides a multi-functional print head, as well as an integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing device and application method incorporating this multi-functional print head, offering an advanced solution for integrated structural and circuit manufacturing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention addresses the problems existing in the prior art by providing a multi-functional printhead, as well as an integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment and application method that includes the multi-functional printhead, thereby solving the problems of complex operation, poor precision, and limited manufacturing functions in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] (i) The present invention provides a multifunctional print head, including a connector and a structural printing module, a three-dimensional wire printing module and an electrical function graphic printing module disposed on different mounting surfaces of the connector; the structural printing module is used to print a load-bearing structure, the three-dimensional wire printing module is used to print three-dimensional wires, and the electrical function graphic printing module is used to print electrical function graphics.

[0007] Furthermore, the structural printing module includes at least one set of printing components; the printing components include a back plate, a water cooling device, a nozzle, and a filament feeding wheel; the water cooling device is mounted on the back plate, the filament feeding wheel is rotatably mounted on the side of the water cooling device close to the connector, and the nozzle is located on the side of the water cooling device away from the connector; when the filament feeding wheel rotates, the filament wrapped on its surface can pass through the through-channel of the water cooling device and enter the nozzle for filament printing.

[0008] Furthermore, a tensioning assembly is provided, which includes a slide rod, a spring, and an L-shaped component. The slide rod is fixedly connected to one end of the water-cooling device near the connecting part, and the spring is sleeved on the slide rod. The L-shaped component is rotatably mounted on the back plate, and one end of the L-shaped component is provided with a through hole through which the slide rod passes, and the spring is distributed between the L-shaped component and the water-cooling device. The other end of the L-shaped component is rotatably mounted with a tensioning wheel, which can rotate with the wire feeding wheel.

[0009] Furthermore, the three-dimensional wire printing module includes a high-viscosity jetting device, a material storage needle, a direct-write printing device, and a hot-airflow-assisted laser sintering device; the direct-write printing device is used for extrusion molding of low-viscosity conductive materials; the high-viscosity jetting device is connected to the discharge end of the material storage needle and is used to jet high-viscosity conductive materials into dotted patterns; the hot-airflow-assisted laser sintering device includes a heating tube and a laser lens, used for curing the printed lines and patterns, and the distance between the nozzle of the heating tube and the focal point of the laser lens is adjustable.

[0010] Furthermore, the electro-graphic printing module includes a piezoelectric inkjet printing device and a curing device; the piezoelectric inkjet printing device includes an ink storage bottle and a print head, the ink storage bottle is rotatable and is connected to the print head through a pipeline; the curing device includes a second laser lens and / or a near-infrared light source.

[0011] (II) The present invention provides a structural circuit integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing device, including a subtractive manufacturing mechanism, a printing platform and the multi-functional print head described in the present invention (I); the printing platform is used to carry the part to be printed and is distributed below the multi-functional print head and the subtractive manufacturing mechanism; the distance and angle between the printing platform and the multi-functional print head / subtractive manufacturing mechanism (44) are adjustable.

[0012] Furthermore, the printing platform can move linearly along the X and Y axes and rotate around the Y and Z axes; the multi-functional printhead and subtractive material mechanism can move linearly along the Z axis and rotate around the Y axis.

[0013] Furthermore, the printing platform achieves linear movement and rotation through a first driving mechanism; the first driving mechanism includes an X-axis motion module, a Y-axis motion module, a B3-axis drive module, and a C-axis drive module; the Y-axis motion module is disposed on the moving surface of the X-axis motion module, the B3-axis drive module is disposed on the moving surface of the Y-axis motion module, and the C-axis drive module is disposed on the rotating surface of the B3-axis drive module; the printing platform is disposed on the rotating surface of the C-axis drive module; the multi-functional printhead achieves linear movement and rotation through a second driving mechanism; the second driving mechanism includes a Z1-axis motion module and a B1-axis drive module; the B1-axis drive module is disposed on the moving surface of the Z1-axis motion module, and the multi-functional printhead is disposed on the rotating surface of the B1-axis drive module; the subtractive material mechanism achieves linear movement and rotation through a third driving mechanism; the third driving mechanism includes a Z2-axis motion module and a B2-axis drive module; the B2-axis drive module is disposed on the moving surface of the Z2-axis motion module, and the subtractive material mechanism is disposed on the rotating surface of the B2-axis drive module.

[0014] Furthermore, a low-temperature auxiliary processing device is also provided; the low-temperature auxiliary processing device includes a low-temperature gas cylinder, a low-temperature auxiliary gauge, and a low-temperature gas pipeline; the gas supply port of the low-temperature gas cylinder is connected to the low-temperature gas pipeline, the low-temperature gas pipeline is clamped on the low-temperature auxiliary gauge, and the gas outlet of the low-temperature gas pipeline corresponds to the position of the printing platform.

[0015] Furthermore, a dust collection device and an observation device are also provided; the dust collection device includes a dust collection chamber, a dust collection meter holder, and a dust collection pipe; the inlet of the dust collection chamber is connected to the dust collection pipe, the dust collection pipe is clamped on the dust collection meter holder, and the inlet of the dust collection pipe corresponds to the position of the printing platform; the observation device is clamped on the observation device holder.

[0016] (III) This invention provides an application method for an integrated structural circuit additive / subtractive manufacturing equipment, including: S1. An initial load-bearing structure is formed on the printing platform by the structural printing module. The initial load-bearing structure is processed by the subtractive material mechanism to form a groove structure. Then, horizontal wires are printed in the groove structure by the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module and sintered by laser. S2. The upper load-bearing structure is further constructed through the structural printing module. The subtractive material mechanism processes through holes in the upper load-bearing structure. Vertical wires are printed in the holes by the spraying device of the three-dimensional wire printing module and then laser sintered. S3. Repeat the process of printing the load-bearing structure, subtractive processing, printing and sintering the vertical wires in S2 until the vertical wires reach the target height. S4. Electrical functional patterns are printed on the supporting structure through the print head of the electrical functional pattern printing module, and then sintered through a curing device.

[0017] More specifically, it includes the following steps: S1. The multi-functional printhead rotates and switches to the structural printing module. The printing platform moves below the structural printing module, and the structural printing module prints the supporting structure on the printing platform. The printing platform moves below the subtractive processing mechanism, and the subtractive processing mechanism processes the groove structure on the supporting structure. The multi-functional printhead rotates and switches to the three-dimensional wire printing module. The printing platform moves below the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module, and the three-dimensional wire printing module prints horizontal wires in the grooves of the supporting structure. The printing platform moves below the laser lens of the three-dimensional wire printing module, and the laser lens sintersects and solidifies the horizontal wires. S2. The multi-functional printhead switches to the structural printing module, and the printing platform moves below the structural printing module. The structural printing module prints the load-bearing structure on the load-bearing structure and horizontal guide wires. The printing platform moves below the subtractive processing mechanism, and the subtractive processing mechanism processes the hole structure on the load-bearing structure. The multi-functional printhead switches to the three-dimensional guide wire printing module, and the printing platform moves below the jetting device of the three-dimensional guide wire printing module. The three-dimensional guide wire printing module prints vertical guide wires in the holes of the load-bearing structure. The printing platform moves below the laser lens of the three-dimensional guide wire printing module, and the laser lens sintersects and solidifies the vertical guide wires. S3. Repeat step S2 until the vertical 3D guide at the designed height is printed. S4. The multi-functional printhead switches to the electrical functional graphic printing module, the printing platform moves below the electrical functional graphic printing module, and the printhead of the electrical functional graphic printing module prints electrical functional graphics on the supporting structure and vertical lines; the printing platform moves below the curing device of the electrical functional graphic printing module to sinter the electrical functional graphics.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this invention are: (1) The multi-functional printhead provided by this invention integrates three sets of printing modules with different functions: a structural printing module, a three-dimensional wire printing module, and an electrical functional graphic printing module. The three modules are evenly distributed at 120 degrees, realizing efficient and precise integrated manufacturing of structures, three-dimensional wires, and electrical functional graphics on a single device. This solves the problem of repeated clamping, positioning, and accumulated errors in traditional multi-machine process flow, and greatly improves the molding accuracy and quality of the final product. The system can quickly switch between different printing modules, significantly shortening the overall manufacturing cycle, solving the problem of long printing time, and greatly improving production efficiency. (2) In this invention, the structural printing module can be equipped with dual printing heads, which can realize the fused deposition modeling of two materials, overcome the inherent contradiction between extreme lightweight and structural strength, and carry out local reinforcement in key parts such as stress concentration according to design requirements, thereby significantly improving its mechanical properties and reliability while ensuring product lightweight. (3) In this invention, the three-dimensional wire printing module integrates jet printing and direct writing printing modules, which can complete high-precision three-dimensional wire printing. By equipping an automatic cleaning module and a hot airflow laser composite sintering module, real-time cleaning and temperature gradient control can be achieved, which can form high-density, low-resistivity three-dimensional wires, effectively avoiding thermal damage to the polymer matrix and ensuring the excellent conductivity and long-term reliability of the printed circuit. (4) In this invention, the electro-functional graphic printing module can flexibly print fine two-dimensional graphics, and sinter the graphics according to different requirements through the surface light source and the laser sintering module; (5) In this invention, the free switching between additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing can be achieved by moving and rotating the multi-functional print head, the subtractive manufacturing mechanism and the printing platform. Subtractive manufacturing can be used to mill holes and slots in three-dimensional circuits, thereby improving the accuracy of three-dimensional circuit forming. (6) In this invention, the milling cutter status can be monitored through an observation device during the micro-milling process, improving the safety of the manufacturing process. A low-temperature auxiliary device is also installed to reduce the temperature of the milling cutter and workpiece, improving milling accuracy and the surface quality of the parts. Combined with a dust extraction device for continuous cleaning, this prevents chips from directly damaging the milling cutter and parts, ensuring the normal operation of the milling cutter. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the multi-functional printhead of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the printing module of the present invention; Figure 3 This is another schematic diagram of the structural printing module of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional wire printing module of the present invention; Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of the three-dimensional wire printing module of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical function graphic printing module of the present invention; Figure 7 This is another schematic diagram of the electrical functional graphic printing module of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the flange-type connector structure of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a rear view of the integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment for the structure and circuit of this invention; Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating the control principle of the integrated structural circuitry additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment of this invention. Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the working method of the integrated structural circuit additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment of the present invention.

[0020] The labels in the attached diagram are: 1. Structural printing module; 2. 3D wire drawing printing module; 3. Electrical function graphic printing module; 4. Connector; 5. Slide cylinder; 6. Water cooling device; 7. K-type thermocouple; 8. Heating rod; 9. First mounting plate; 10. L-shaped component; 11. Wire feed roller; 12. Spring; 13. Nozzle; 14. Pneumatic shears; 15. Heating block; 16. Heating tube; 17. Displacement slide; 18. Laser lens; 19. Direct writing printing device; 20. Rotary cylinder; 21. High viscosity jetting device; 22. Material storage needle; 23. Brush; 24. Second mounting plate; 25. Slide cylinder; 26. Industrial camera; 27. Outer spherical bearing; 28. Ink storage bottle; 30. Printhead fixing device; 31. Third mounting plate; 32. Near-infrared external light source; 33. Second slide cylinder; 34. Rotatable pneumatic connector; 35. Second laser lens; 36. Rear plate of connector; 37. Front cover; 38. Threaded hole; 39. Countersunk hole; 40. Square wiring hole; 41. Irregular wiring hole; 42. Threaded hole of rear plate; 43. Multifunctional print head; 44. Subtractive material mechanism; 45. Printing platform; 46. X-axis motion module; 47. Y-axis motion module; 48. B3 axis drive module; 49. C-axis drive module; 50. Z1 axis motion module; 51. B1 axis drive module; 52. Z2 axis motion module; 53. B2 axis drive module; 54. Cryogenic gas cylinder; 55. Cryogenic auxiliary gauge holder; 56. Cryogenic gas pipeline; 57. Dust collection chamber; 58. Dust collection gauge holder; 59. Dust collection pipeline; 60. Observation device; 61. Observation device gauge holder; 62. Stepper motor. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] Example 1 like Figures 1-8As shown, this embodiment provides a multi-functional printhead, including a connector 4 and a structural printing module 1, a three-dimensional wire printing module 2, and an electrical function graphic printing module 3, which are mounted (bolted together) on different mounting surfaces of the connector 4. The structural printing module 1 is used to print load-bearing structures, the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 is used to print three-dimensional wires, and the electrical function graphic printing module 3 is used to print electrical function graphics.

[0023] like Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, connector 4 is a hexagonal flange with a central hole and three mounting surfaces. It integrates three printing modules, with the normal directions of the mounting surfaces forming a 120-degree angle with each other, resulting in a compact and fully functional design. The through holes, irregular holes, and central hole on the flange mounting panel can be used to lay necessary water, electricity, and gas lines. Finally, the internal wiring of the flange is encapsulated by a front cover. The three printing modules (structural printing module 1, 3D wire printing module 2, and electrical function graphic printing module 3) work together to achieve integrated molding of the structural circuit. This compact, integrated design fundamentally solves the problems of multi-machine coordination and difficult process flow in traditional processes, greatly simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0024] like Figures 2-3 As shown, the structural printing module 1 includes a first mounting plate 9 and two sets of printable parts. The two sets of printable parts can be used to print thermoplastic polymer filaments containing short fibers (such as PEEK, short-fiber glass fiber PEEK, etc.) and continuous fibers, respectively. The first mounting plate 9 is fixedly connected to one mounting surface of the connector 4. The printable parts include a back plate, a water-cooling device 6, a nozzle 13, and a filament feed roller 11. The back plate is connected to the first mounting plate 9, the water-cooling device 6 is mounted on the back plate, the filament feed roller 11 is rotatably mounted on the side of the water-cooling device 6 near the connector 4, and the nozzle 13 is located on the side of the water-cooling device 6 away from the connector 4. The filament feed roller 11 is driven to rotate by a stepper motor 62, which is connected to the first mounting plate 9. When the filament feed roller 11 rotates, the filaments wound on its surface can pass through the through-channel of the water-cooling device 6 and enter the nozzle 13 for filament printing.

[0025] In this embodiment, the nozzle 13 is also equipped with a heating device. The heating device is a heating block 15 with a K-type thermocouple 7 and a heating rod 8 installed. It works with a temperature controller to achieve a heating function over a wide temperature range, melting the polymer filament and extruding it from the nozzle 13 as a consumable of the same diameter. The water cooling device 6 can isolate the temperature of the heating block to achieve printing of high-melting-point materials and prevent the filament from over-melting.

[0026] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a tensioning assembly is also provided, which includes a slide rod, a spring 12, and an L-shaped member 10. The slide rod is fixedly connected to one end of the water-cooling device 6 near the connecting member 4, and the spring 12 is sleeved on the slide rod. The corner of the L-shaped member 10 is rotatably connected to the back plate. One end of the L-shaped member 10 is provided with a through hole, through which the slide rod passes, and the spring 12 is distributed between the L-shaped member 10 and the water-cooling device 6. A tensioning wheel is rotatably mounted on the other end of the L-shaped member 10, and the tensioning wheel can rotate with the wire feeding wheel 11. The wire feeding wheel 11 provides a pre-tensioning force to the tensioning wheel through the spring 12 to clamp the wire, and the stepper motor 62 drives the wire feeding gear 11 to engage the wire to realize the wire feeding and retraction functions.

[0027] As a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a slide cylinder 5 is also provided. The slide cylinder 5 is mounted on the first mounting plate 9, and its driving end is connected to the back plate of one of the printed parts (short fiber printed parts), enabling it to drive one of the printed parts to move toward or away from the first mounting plate 9. The slide cylinder 5 allows for switching between two printing stations.

[0028] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pneumatic scissor 14 is also provided and mounted on the first mounting plate 9, which is adapted to one of the printing parts (for printing continuous fiber filaments) for cutting the continuous fiber filaments, thereby completing the continuous fiber filament printing task.

[0029] like Figures 4-5 As shown, the 3D conductive wire printing module 2 includes a second mounting plate 24, a high-viscosity jetting device 21, a material storage needle tube 22, a direct-write printing device 19, and a hot airflow-assisted laser sintering device. The second mounting plate 24 is fixedly connected to the connector 4. The high-viscosity jetting device 21, the material storage needle tube 22, the direct-write printing device 19, and the hot airflow-assisted laser sintering device are all mounted on the second mounting plate 24. The direct-write printing device 19 is used for extruding low-viscosity conductive materials. The high-viscosity jetting device 21 is connected to the discharge end of the material storage needle tube 22 and is used to jet high-viscosity conductive materials into dotted patterns. The direct-write printing device 19 is connected to an air pump, and extrusion molding of low-viscosity conductive materials is achieved by applying air pressure. The extrusion needle on the device can be changed to different diameters according to line width requirements and material properties. It can be used to print horizontal lines and patterns on the surface of structural parts, forming 3D conductive wires after sintering. The high-viscosity spraying device 21 drives the impact pin through a high-frequency solenoid valve to spray the high-viscosity conductive material in the storage needle tube 22 onto the internal surface of the structure, forming a dot pattern on the surface. The dots are connected into lines by the coordinated movement of the print head. After sintering, a horizontal wire pattern can be formed. In the vertical direction, by spraying dot patterns layer by layer, a vertical wire pattern can be formed after sintering.

[0030] The hot airflow-assisted laser sintering device includes a heating tube 16 and a laser lens 18. The heating tube 16 is a gas heating tube capable of ejecting hot airflow for preheating the circuits and patterns before sintering, evaporating some solvent, reducing the porosity of the three-dimensional wires and patterns, and improving the forming quality. The laser lens 18 is an 808nm infrared laser lens used for curing the printed circuits and patterns. The heating tube 16 can be positioned via a displacement slide 17 and a slide cylinder 25 for station switching, thereby avoiding interference between the nozzle of the hot airflow device and the workpiece during the circuit and pattern forming process. By precisely controlling the heating tube temperature, gas pressure, and infrared laser power, the temperature gradient for curing and sintering can be controlled, thus sintering the circuits formed by jet printing and direct writing printing into three-dimensional wires with high density and low resistivity.

[0031] As a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a cleaning device is also provided. The cleaning device includes a brush 23, a rotary cylinder 20, and a cantilever. The rotary cylinder 20 is positioned outside the high-viscosity spraying device 21. One end of the cantilever is connected to the output end of the rotary cylinder 20 and can be rotated under the drive of the rotary cylinder 20. The brush 23 is connected to the other end of the cantilever. When the brush 23 rotates with the cantilever to below the high-viscosity spraying device 21, it can clean the nozzle of the high-viscosity spraying device 21. The cleaning device equipped on the spraying module ensures the cleanliness of the nozzle during printing, thereby guaranteeing the stability and quality of line printing.

[0032] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an industrial camera 26 is also provided. The industrial camera 26 is used to calibrate the focal position of the high-viscosity jetting device 21, the direct writing printing device 19 and the laser lens 18, so as to realize the coordinate unification of the three printing modules. After the industrial camera is aligned and calibrated, the coordinate points are recorded in sequence to calculate their relative coordinates, which facilitates the programming of wire lines and patterns, reduces errors and improves the printing accuracy.

[0033] like Figures 6-7 As shown, the electro-graphic printing module 3 includes a third mounting plate 31, a piezoelectric inkjet printing device, and a curing device, both of which are mounted on the third mounting plate 31.

[0034] The piezoelectric inkjet printer includes an ink reservoir 28 and a printhead, which is fixed by a printhead fixing device 30. The printing material used is conductive nano-silver ink. The ink is stored in the ink reservoir 28, which is connected to the printhead via tubing. The ink reservoir 28 is fixed to an outer spherical bearing 27 (mounted on a back plate connected to a third mounting plate 31) by a clamp, and the ink reservoir 28 can rotate. When the connector 4 rotates, the ink reservoir 28 remains vertical due to its own weight, preventing ink spillage that could lead to contamination and printing failure. During printing, the droplet state of the piezoelectric inkjet printhead is controlled by air pressure. The connected air path is transferred via a rotatable pneumatic connector 34, which prevents the reservoir from losing its vertical position due to tubing twisting or tangling. The pattern is formed by the piezoelectric inkjet printhead, and the pattern needs to be further cured by a curing device. The curing device includes a second laser lens 35 and a near-infrared external light source 32. The high-precision printed lines can be cured and sintered using infrared laser generated by the second laser lens 35. Larger two-dimensional patterns can be cured and sintered using a near-infrared external light source 32. The second laser lens 35 is fixed to the rear of the print head by a clamp. The near-infrared external light source 32 is fixed by a second sliding cylinder 33 and can move up and down. When the print head is working, the second sliding cylinder 33 is raised to ensure stable operation of the print head. When the surface light source curing function is required, the second sliding cylinder 33 is lowered to bring it closer to the printed pattern, thereby curing and sintering the two-dimensional pattern.

[0035] This embodiment, through a highly integrated design, enables rapid and convenient switching between the three printing modules, fundamentally solving the positioning error problem caused by traditional multi-machine process flow, and significantly improving the processing efficiency and final accuracy of integrated molding of structure and circuit.

[0036] The high-viscosity jetting device 21, the direct-write printing device 19, the laser lens, and the piezoelectric inkjet printing device described above are all existing devices disclosed in the art, and their structures will not be described in detail in this application.

[0037] Example 2 like Figures 9-12 As shown, this embodiment provides a structural circuit integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment, including a gantry frame, a subtractive manufacturing mechanism 44, a printing platform 45, and a multi-functional printhead 43 with the same structure as in Embodiment 1.

[0038] The printing platform 45 is used to carry the workpiece to be printed and can move linearly along the X and Y axes and rotate around the Y and Z axes. The multi-functional printhead 43 and the subtractive material mechanism 44 are distributed above the printing platform 45 and can move linearly along the Z axis and rotate around the Y axis.

[0039] More specifically, the printing platform 45 achieves linear movement and rotation through a first drive mechanism. The first drive mechanism includes an X-axis motion module 46, a Y-axis motion module 47, a B3-axis drive module 48, and a C-axis drive module 49. The X-axis motion module 46 is fixedly installed in the lower part of the gantry frame. The Y-axis motion module 47 is disposed on the moving surface of the X-axis motion module 46, the B3-axis drive module 48 is disposed on the moving surface of the Y-axis motion module 47, and the C-axis drive module 49 is disposed on the rotating surface of the B3-axis drive module 48. The printing platform 45 is disposed on the rotating surface of the C-axis drive module 49. The printing platform 45 can move and rotate linearly with the X-axis motion module 46, the Y-axis motion module 47, the B3-axis drive module 48, and the C-axis drive module 49, thereby adjusting the coordinates and angles of the printing platform 45.

[0040] The multi-function printhead 43 achieves linear movement and rotation via a second drive mechanism. The second drive mechanism includes a Z1-axis motion module 50 and a B1-axis drive module 51. The Z1-axis motion module 50 is fixedly mounted on the upper part of the gantry frame, the B1-axis drive module 51 is positioned on the moving surface of the Z1-axis motion module 50, and the multi-function printhead 43 is positioned on the rotating surface of the B1-axis drive module 51. The multi-function printhead 43 can rise or fall with the Z1-axis motion module 50 to adjust its distance from the printing platform, and rotate with the B1-axis drive module 51 to switch between the three printing modules.

[0041] The subtractive material processing mechanism 44 achieves linear movement and rotation via a third drive mechanism. The third drive mechanism includes a Z2-axis motion module 52 and a B2-axis drive module 53. The Z2-axis motion module 52 is fixedly mounted on the upper part of the gantry frame, the B2-axis drive module 53 is disposed on the moving surface of the Z2-axis motion module 52, and the subtractive material processing mechanism 44 is disposed on the rotating surface of the B2-axis drive module 53. The subtractive material processing mechanism 44 can rise or fall with the Z2-axis motion module 52 to adjust its distance from the printing platform, and rotate with the B2-axis drive module 53 to adjust the cutting angle.

[0042] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cryogenic auxiliary processing device is also provided. The cryogenic auxiliary processing device includes a cryogenic gas cylinder 54, a cryogenic auxiliary gauge holder 55, and a cryogenic gas pipeline 56. The cryogenic auxiliary gauge holder 55 is installed inside the gantry frame, the gas supply port of the cryogenic gas cylinder 54 is connected to the cryogenic gas pipeline 56, the cryogenic gas pipeline 56 is clamped on the cryogenic auxiliary gauge holder 55, and the gas outlet of the cryogenic gas pipeline 56 corresponds to the position of the printing platform 45.

[0043] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a dust collection device is also provided. The dust collection device includes a dust collection chamber 57, a dust collection meter holder 58, and a dust collection pipe 59. The dust collection meter holder 58 is installed inside the gantry frame, the inlet of the dust collection chamber 57 is connected to the dust collection pipe 59, the dust collection pipe 59 is clamped on the dust collection meter holder 58, and the inlet of the dust collection pipe 59 corresponds to the position of the printing platform 45.

[0044] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an observation device 60 is also provided, which is clamped on an observation device frame 61, and the observation device frame 61 is installed inside the gantry frame.

[0045] As a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a tool setting device 62 is also provided, which is disposed on the printing platform 45 and is used to measure the height of the milling cutter from the printing platform 45.

[0046] The Z1 axis motion module 50 and Z2 axis motion module 52 mentioned above are moved by servo motors, the X axis motion module 46 and Y axis motion module 47 are moved by linear motors, and the B1 axis drive module 51, B2 axis drive module 53 and B3 axis drive module 48 are rotated by torque motors.

[0047] The X-axis motion module 46 includes an X-axis driver, an X-axis linear motor, and an X-axis grating ruler. The X-axis driver is used to drive the X-axis linear motor, and the X-axis grating ruler is used to provide feedback on the movement position of the X-axis linear motor. The X-axis linear motor controls the printing platform 45 to move along the X-axis.

[0048] The Y-axis motion module 47 includes a Y-axis driver, a Y-axis linear motor, and a Y-axis grating ruler. The Y-axis driver is used to drive the Y-axis linear motor, and the Y-axis grating ruler is used to provide feedback on the position, speed, and direction of the Y-axis linear motor. The Y-axis linear motor controls the printing platform 45 to move along the Y-axis.

[0049] The Z1 axis drive system 50 includes a Z1 axis driver, a Z1 axis servo motor, and a Z1 axis encoder. The Z1 axis driver is used to drive the Z1 axis servo motor, and the Z1 axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the servo motor. The Z1 axis servo motor controls the movement of the multi-function printhead 43 along the Z1 axis.

[0050] The Z2 axis drive system 52 includes a Z2 axis driver, a Z2 axis servo motor, and a Z2 axis encoder. The Z2 axis driver is used to drive the Z2 axis servo motor, and the Z2 axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the servo motor. The Z2 axis servo motor controls the subtractive material mechanism 44 to move along the Z2 axis.

[0051] The B1 axis drive system 51 includes a B1 axis driver, a B1 axis torque motor, and a B1 axis encoder. The B1 axis driver is used to drive the B1 axis torque motor, and the B1 axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the torque motor. The B1 axis torque motor controls the rotation of the multi-function printhead 43 around the Y-axis.

[0052] The B2 axis drive system 53 includes a B2 axis driver, a B2 axis torque motor, and a B2 axis encoder. The B2 axis driver is used to drive the B2 axis torque motor, and the B2 axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the torque motor. The B2 axis torque motor controls the rotation of the Y-axis of the subtractive material mechanism 44.

[0053] The B3 axis drive system 48 includes a B3 axis driver, a B3 axis torque motor, and a B3 axis encoder. The B3 axis driver is used to drive the B3 axis torque motor, and the B3 axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the torque motor. The B3 axis torque motor controls the printing platform 45 to rotate around the Y axis.

[0054] The C-axis drive system 49 includes a C-axis driver, a C-axis torque motor, and a C-axis encoder. The C-axis driver is used to drive the C-axis torque motor, and the C-axis encoder is used to detect the position, speed, and direction of the torque motor. The C-axis torque motor controls the printing platform 45 to rotate around the Z-axis.

[0055] Example 3 The working method of the integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment for structure and circuit as described in Example 2 includes: the structure printing module 1 forms an initial supporting structure on the printing platform along a planned trajectory according to process parameters; the subtractive manufacturing mechanism 44 processes the supporting structure according to process parameters to form a groove structure; the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 prints horizontal wires in the groove structure and forms them by laser sintering; then the structure printing module 1 continues to build the upper supporting structure, the subtractive manufacturing mechanism 44 processes through holes, the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 prints vertical wires in the holes and sintersects them by laser; the above process of supporting structure printing, subtractive manufacturing, three-dimensional wire printing and sintering is repeated until the vertical wires reach the target height; finally, the print head of the electrical function graphic printing module 3 prints electrical function graphics on the supporting structure and sintersects them by a surface light source.

[0056] Specifically, the following steps are included: Step S1: The multi-functional printhead 43 rises to a safe height and rotates to switch to the structural printing module 1. The printing platform 45 moves below the structural printing module 1, and the structural printing module 1 descends to a certain height. According to the process parameters, the load-bearing structure is printed on the printing platform 45 along the planned trajectory. The multi-functional printhead 43 rises to a safe height.

[0057] Step S2: The subtractive material mechanism 44 rises to a safe height, the printing platform 45 moves below the subtractive material mechanism 44, the subtractive material mechanism 44 descends to a certain height, and the subtractive material mechanism 44 processes the groove structure on the supporting structure along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters. Then the subtractive material mechanism 44 rises to a safe height.

[0058] Step S3: The multi-functional printhead 43 rotates and switches to the three-dimensional wire printing module 2. The printing platform 45 moves to the bottom of the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2. The multi-functional printhead 43 descends to a certain height. The three-dimensional wire printing module 2 prints horizontal wires in the groove of the supporting structure along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters.

[0059] Step S4: The printing platform 45 moves to below the laser lens of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2, the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 moves to the sintering height, the laser lens sinters the horizontal wires along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters, and the multi-functional print head 43 rises to the safe height.

[0060] Step S5: The multi-functional printhead 43 switches to the structural printing module 1, the printing platform 45 moves below the structural printing module 1, the structural printing module 1 descends to a certain height, and the structural printing module 1 prints the supporting structure on the supporting structure and the horizontal guide wire according to the process parameters along the planned trajectory. The multi-functional printhead 43 rises to a safe height.

[0061] Step S6: The subtractive material mechanism 44 rises to a safe height, the printing platform 45 moves below the subtractive material mechanism 44, the subtractive material mechanism 44 descends to a certain height, the subtractive material mechanism 44 processes the hole structure on the supporting structure along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters, and the subtractive material mechanism 44 rises to a safe height.

[0062] Step S7: The multi-functional printhead 43 switches to the three-dimensional wire printing module 2, the printing platform 45 moves to the bottom of the jetting device of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2, the multi-functional printhead 43 descends to a certain height, and the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 prints vertical wires in the holes of the supporting structure along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters.

[0063] Step S8: The printing platform 45 moves to below the laser lens of the three-dimensional wire printing module 2, the three-dimensional wire printing module 2 moves to the sintering height, the laser lens sinters the vertical wires along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters, and the multi-functional print head 43 rises to the safe height.

[0064] Step S9, repeat steps S5~S8 until the vertical guide at the designed height is printed, and the multi-function print head 43 rises to a safe height.

[0065] Step S10: The multi-function printhead 43 switches to the electrical function graphic printing module 3, the printing platform 45 moves below the electrical function graphic printing module 3, the multi-function printhead 43 descends to a certain height, and the printhead of the electrical function graphic printing module 3 prints electrical function graphics on the supporting structure and vertical lines according to the process parameters along the planned trajectory.

[0066] Step S11: The printing platform 45 moves to below the three light sources of the electro-functional graphic printing module, and the printing platform 45 descends to the sintering height. The three light sources of the electro-functional graphic printing module sinter the electro-functional graphic along the planned trajectory according to the process parameters.

[0067] The integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment of the present invention integrates a structural printing module 1, a three-dimensional wire printing module 2, and an electrical functional graphic printing module 3 through a multi-functional switching device. Combined with the movement of the printing platform, it realizes free switching between additive and subtractive manufacturing processes. It uses micro-milling to process holes, grooves, and mating surfaces to improve the forming accuracy of three-dimensional circuits and functional graphics. It also ensures the safety and surface quality of the milling process through monitoring by an observation device, cooling by a low-temperature auxiliary processing device, and cleaning by a dust collection device.

[0068] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. All technical solutions falling within the scope of the present invention's concept are within the scope of protection of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, any improvements and modifications made without departing from the principles of the present invention should be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multi-functional printhead, characterized in that, It includes a connector (4) and a structure printing module (1), a three-dimensional wire printing module (2) and an electrical function graphic printing module (3) set on different mounting surfaces of the connector (4); the structure printing module (1) is used to print the load-bearing structure, the three-dimensional wire printing module (2) is used to print the three-dimensional wire, and the electrical function graphic printing module (3) is used to print the electrical function graphic.

2. The multi-functional printhead according to claim 1, characterized in that, The structure printing module (1) includes at least one set of printed parts; The printed part includes a back plate, a water cooling device (6), a nozzle (13), and a wire feeding wheel (11); the water cooling device (6) is mounted on the back plate, the wire feeding wheel (11) is rotatably mounted on the side of the water cooling device (6) close to the connector (4), and the nozzle (13) is located on the side of the water cooling device (6) away from the connector (4); when the wire feeding wheel (11) rotates, the filaments wrapped on its surface can pass through the through-channel of the water cooling device (6) and enter the nozzle (13) for filament printing.

3. The multi-functional printhead according to claim 2, characterized in that, It is also provided with a tensioning assembly, which includes a slide bar, a spring (12) and an L-shaped member (10). The slide rod is fixedly connected to one end of the water cooling device (6) near the connecting part (4), and the spring (12) is sleeved on the slide rod; the L-shaped part (10) is rotatably mounted on the back plate, one end of the L-shaped part (10) is provided with a through hole, the slide rod passes through the through hole, and the spring (12) is distributed between the L-shaped part (10) and the water cooling device (6); the other end of the L-shaped part (10) is rotatably mounted with a tension wheel, and the tension wheel can rotate with the wire feeding wheel (11).

4. The multi-functional printhead according to claim 1, characterized in that, The three-dimensional wire printing module (2) includes a high-viscosity jetting device (21), a material storage needle (22), a direct writing printing device (19), and a hot airflow assisted laser sintering device; The direct-write printing device (19) is used for extrusion molding of low-viscosity conductive materials; the high-viscosity spraying device (21) is connected to the discharge end of the storage needle tube (22) and is used to spray high-viscosity conductive materials into dotted patterns; the hot airflow assisted laser sintering device includes a heating tube (16) and a laser lens (18) for curing the printed lines and patterns, and the distance between the nozzle of the heating tube (16) and the focal point of the laser lens (18) is adjustable.

5. The multi-functional printhead according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electro-functional graphic printing module (3) includes a piezoelectric inkjet printing device and a curing device; The piezoelectric inkjet printing device includes an ink storage bottle (28) and a print head. The ink storage bottle (28) is rotatable and is connected to the print head via a pipe. The curing device includes a second laser lens (35) and a near-infrared light source (32).

6. A structural and circuit integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment, characterized in that, It includes a subtractive manufacturing mechanism (44), a printing platform (45), and a multi-functional printhead (43) as described in any one of claims 1 to 5. The printing platform (45) is used to carry the part to be printed and is located below the multi-functional print head (43) and the subtractive material mechanism (44); the distance and angle between the printing platform (45) and the multi-functional print head (43) / subtractive material mechanism (44) are adjustable.

7. The integrated structural and circuit additive / subtractive manufacturing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The printing platform (45) can move linearly along the X-axis and Y-axis, and can rotate around the Y-axis and Z-axis; the multi-functional print head (43) and the subtractive material mechanism (44) can move linearly along the Z-axis and can rotate around the Y-axis; The printing platform (45) achieves linear movement and rotation through a first driving mechanism; the first driving mechanism includes an X-axis motion module (46), a Y-axis motion module (47), a B3-axis drive module (48), and a C-axis drive module (49); the Y-axis motion module (47) is disposed on the moving surface of the X-axis motion module (46), the B3-axis drive module (48) is disposed on the moving surface of the Y-axis motion module (47), and the C-axis drive module (49) is disposed on the rotating surface of the B3-axis drive module (48); the printing platform (45) is disposed on the rotating surface of the C-axis drive module (49). The multi-functional printhead (43) achieves linear movement and rotation through a second drive mechanism; the second drive mechanism includes a Z1 axis motion module (50) and a B1 axis drive module (51); the B1 axis drive module (51) is disposed on the moving surface of the Z1 axis motion module (50), and the multi-functional printhead (43) is disposed on the rotating surface of the B1 axis drive module (51); The subtractive material mechanism (44) achieves linear movement and rotation through a third drive mechanism; the third drive mechanism includes a Z2 axis motion module (52) and a B2 axis drive module (53); the B2 axis drive module (53) is disposed on the moving surface of the Z2 axis motion module (52), and the subtractive material mechanism (44) is disposed on the rotating surface of the B2 axis drive module (53).

8. The integrated structural and circuit additive / subtractive manufacturing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, It is also equipped with a low-temperature auxiliary processing device; The low-temperature auxiliary processing device includes a low-temperature gas cylinder (54), a low-temperature auxiliary instrument stand (55), and a low-temperature gas pipeline (56); the gas supply port of the low-temperature gas cylinder (54) is connected to the low-temperature gas pipeline (56), the low-temperature gas pipeline (56) is clamped on the low-temperature auxiliary instrument stand (55), and the gas outlet of the low-temperature gas pipeline (56) corresponds to the position of the printing platform (45).

9. The integrated structural and circuit additive / subtractive manufacturing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, It is also equipped with a dust collection device and an observation device (60); The vacuuming device includes a vacuum chamber (57), a vacuum meter holder (58), and a vacuum pipe (59); the inlet of the vacuum chamber (57) is connected to the vacuum pipe (59), the vacuum pipe (59) is clamped on the vacuum meter holder (58), and the inlet of the vacuum pipe (59) corresponds to the position of the printing platform (45); The observation device (60) is clamped on the observation device frame (61).

10. The application method of the integrated structural circuit additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment as described in claim 6, characterized in that, include: Step 1: The initial load-bearing structure is formed on the printing platform by the structure printing module (1). The initial load-bearing structure is processed by the subtractive material mechanism (44) to form a groove structure. Then, the horizontal wires are printed in the groove structure by the spraying device of the three-dimensional wire printing module (2) and formed by laser sintering. Step 2: Continue to build the upper load-bearing structure through the structural printing module (1), and the subtractive material mechanism (44) processes through holes in the upper load-bearing structure. Vertical wires are printed in the holes by the spraying device of the three-dimensional wire printing module (2) and then laser sintered. Step 3: Repeat step 2 until the vertical guide reaches the target height; Step 4: Print electrical functional patterns on the supporting structure using the print head of the electrical functional pattern printing module (3), and sinter them using a curing device.

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