Material storage container for a material for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration, method for filling a material storage container, and device and method for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration

Abstract

A material storage container for a material for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration is described. The material storage container comprises a receiving space and a supply opening which is coupled to the receiving space in a material-conveying manner such that material can be supplied from the receiving space through the supply opening for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration. A first material and a second material which differ at least in at least one material property are arranged in the receiving space. The first material and the second material are arranged successively along a discharge direction of the receiving space. Or the first material and the second material are arranged successively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. A method for filling a material storage container is also set forth. An apparatus for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration and a method for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration are also explained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a material storage container for materials used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations. The material storage container includes a receiving space and a supply port, the supply port being coupled to the receiving space in a material delivery manner such that material can be supplied from the receiving space through the supply port for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for filling a material storage container for materials used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations.

[0003] The present invention also relates to an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations and a method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations. Background Technology

[0004] This type of material storage container and its use in processes and apparatuses for additive manufacturing of dental restorations are known. In this context, another term for additive manufacturing is generative or layer-by-layer manufacturing. In this type of process, the dental restoration to be manufactured, or more generally, the part to be manufactured, is built layer by layer on a substrate or building platform. This type of process is sometimes also referred to as 3D printing. Specifically, this type of process and apparatus can be used to manufacture replacement teeth, portions of replacement teeth, and partial or complete dentures layer by layer. A material storage container is used to supply the necessary starting material; the term "cartridge" is also commonly used to refer to the material storage container. When manufacturing dental restorations, the goal is always to reproduce the original tooth as closely as possible, meaning that the dental restoration should be as similar as possible to natural teeth and / or natural gums. However, as the requirements for the fidelity of dental restorations to the original tooth increase, the known apparatus and processes have become increasingly complex. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The objective of this invention is to further improve the fidelity of layered dental restorations to natural teeth; in other words, to make it possible to manufacture dental restorations with a natural appearance. However, the manufacture of dental restorations should be as simple as possible. In other words, the simplest possible option is to provide dental restorations that closely resemble natural teeth and / or natural gums.

[0006] The objective is achieved through a material storage container for materials used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations. The material storage container includes a receiving space and a supply port coupled to the receiving space in a material delivery manner, such that material can be supplied from the receiving space through the supply port for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration. A first material and a second material, differing in at least one material property, are arranged in the receiving space. Furthermore, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space. Alternatively or additionally, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Therefore, this type of material storage container can be configured in three variations. In a first variation, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space. In a second variation, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. A third variation involves a combination of the first and second variations, meaning that materials with different material properties are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space and also consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. To implement such a variation using two materials, the materials can be arranged, for example, in a checkerboard pattern. This means that the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Thus, along the discharge direction, the second material is downstream of the first material, and the first material is downstream of the second material. A third variation can also be implemented using three or more materials, all of which differ in at least one material property. In this context, the discharge direction should be understood as the direction in which the material received in the receiving space flows towards the supply port as it is discharged from the material storage container through the supply port, meaning that the material received in the receiving space is used for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration. All three variations can produce dental restorations that highly replicate the original tooth. This is because natural teeth and natural gingiva have properties of local variation in many aspects. In this context, the portion of the dental restoration that replicates the natural gingiva can also be called the denture base. This means that these properties may vary at different locations in the natural tooth and natural gingiva. This applies particularly to optical properties, especially color and translucency, but also to mechanical properties (e.g., hardness and strength) and chemical properties (in other words, the composition of the materials that constitute the natural tooth and natural gingiva). The material storage container according to the invention takes into account this situation, containing at least a first material and a second material that differ in material properties. Therefore, at least the first material and the second material can also be used in dental restorations manufactured using the material storage container according to the invention, and thus, locally different properties can be implemented in the dental restoration. Specifically, in this way, dental restorations with color gradients from light to dark and / or transparency gradients from high to low transparency can be manufactured.

[0007] Dental restorations that can be manufactured using the storage container described above include, for example, crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and high-mount inlays. Dental restorations can also be partial dentures that replicate at least one tooth and gingival tissue.

[0008] Furthermore, the suitability of the material storage container for manufacturing dental restorations does not preclude the possibility that the material storage container may also be suitable for manufacturing components for other applications (in other words, for manufacturing sensors or jewelry).

[0009] Specifically, in the first variant (in other words, the variant in which the first and second materials are arranged sequentially along the discharge direction), when a material storage container is used to manufacture a dental prosthesis, a portion of the dental prosthesis can first be manufactured using one of the first and second materials supplied closer to the discharge port. Subsequently, another portion of the dental prosthesis can be manufactured using the other material.

[0010] Specifically, this also applies to the second variation, in other words, the variation in which the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. This arrangement implies that the first and second materials are arranged side-by-side along the discharge direction. Therefore, the first and second materials can be supplied substantially simultaneously through the supply port for the manufacture of dental restorations. The first and second materials can be mixed after leaving the material storage container. Alternatively, the first and second materials can also be processed unmixed to form dental restorations. In this variation, it is important that the first and second materials are supplied such that corresponding portions of the dental restoration can be manufactured substantially directly from materials that differ in at least one material property.

[0011] Specifically, in the third variation, different materials (in other words, at least the first and second materials) are supplied along the discharge direction, so that the various parts of the dental restoration can be manufactured sequentially with different materials. Additionally, in the third variation, the different materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. As mentioned earlier, such a variation can be implemented using these materials if the two materials are arranged in, for example, a checkerboard pattern. This means that the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Then, along the discharge direction, the second material is downstream of the first material and the first material is downstream of the second material. The third variation can also be implemented using three or more materials, all of which differ in at least one material property. Therefore, the first and second materials can always be supplied substantially simultaneously through the supply port for manufacturing the dental restoration. The first and second materials can be mixed after leaving the material storage container. Alternatively, the first and second materials can also be processed unmixed to form the dental restoration. Since the first material and the second material are also arranged sequentially along the discharge direction, different combinations of the first material and the second material (in other words, different combinations of the first material and the second material in terms of material arrangement) can also be supplied sequentially through the supply port to manufacture dental restorations.

[0012] The aforementioned at least one material property can describe, in particular, the optical, mechanical, or chemical properties of the material's color and / or translucency. As previously mentioned, natural teeth and natural gingiva also possess locally distinct optical, mechanical, and chemical properties. Therefore, at least a first material and a second material can be used to fabricate particularly realistic dental restorations, as these two materials differ in this type of material property. This is especially true for color and translucency, since both natural teeth and natural gingiva exhibit color gradations and translucency gradations. As for mechanical properties, dental restorations can be fabricated that have a relatively hard, high-strength but brittle surface, while possessing a relatively soft, flexible, and resilient internal volume.

[0013] It will be understood that the materials in a material storage container may, of course, differ in many material properties.

[0014] In one variation, the material storage container further includes an outlet for removing material not used in additive manufacturing of the dental restoration. This configuration allows for the discharge of material after it has been completely unused or only partially used in the manufacture of a portion of the dental restoration. This is particularly advantageous when subsequent portions of the dental restoration are to be manufactured with different materials. In cases where the material has not been used at all in the manufacture of the dental restoration, subsequently arranged materials become available. This configuration is especially relevant if at least the first and second materials are arranged consecutively in the receiving space along the discharge direction. Overall, this increases the flexibility in the use of the materials contained in the material storage container.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first material and the second material may each be arranged as separate, visible layers. Alternatively or additionally, multiple materials differing in at least one material property are arranged in the receiving space. The multiple materials are arranged sequentially along or perpendicular to the discharge direction of the receiving space, resulting in a visible, continuous progression of the at least one material property. Thus, the first material and the second material can be arranged, on the one hand, as separate, visible layers. This means that the transition from the first material to the second material results in an abrupt change in material properties within the material storage container. This also applies to supplying material at a supply port for additive manufacturing of dental restorations. Alternatively, multiple materials are present, including the first material and the second material. The multiple materials are arranged in the receiving space, resulting in a visible, continuous progression of the at least one material property. This means that there is no abrupt change in material properties. Both variations can produce dental restorations faithful to the original tooth. Variations with discrete layers are particularly suitable for manufacturing the following types of restorations: initially, a first portion of the dental restoration is manufactured using a first material, and subsequently, a second portion of the dental restoration is manufactured using a second material. A second type of variation (in other words, a variation with a visible, progressive material property) is particularly suitable for manufacturing dental restorations that also require a visible, progressive material property. This is also particularly suitable for variations in which multiple materials are arranged sequentially in a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction, resulting in a continuous, progressive material property along the same direction.

[0016] The material storage container may also include a separating element disposed between the first material and the second material to separate them. This type of separating element reliably prevents unnecessary mixing of the first and second materials. This further improves the quality of dental restorations manufactured using the material storage container and thus also enhances the fidelity of the restorations to the original teeth. It will be understood that when two or more different materials are arranged in the receiving space of the material storage container, this type of separating element can be provided between each pair of adjacent arranged materials. Alternatively, a separating element may be provided only between certain pairs of adjacent arranged materials.

[0017] In one embodiment, the separating element and / or the sidewall defining the receiving space includes a guide element for guiding the separating element along the discharge direction. Using this type of guide element prevents the separating element from moving in an undesirable manner or entering an undesirable location, such as being wedged or losing its separating effect, during discharge from the material storage container—in other words, when the material present in the material storage container is used to manufacture a dental restoration.

[0018] In one example, the guide element is configured as a thickened portion of the edge of the separating element in the discharge direction. This reliably prevents the separating element from tilting relative to the discharge direction.

[0019] In another embodiment, a guide profile is formed in the sidewall of the receiving space. This reliably prevents unwanted movement of the separating element.

[0020] In one example, the separation element may include a membrane, diaphragm, or fixed-wall element. This type of separation element is particularly compact because it can be made relatively thin, especially in the discharge direction. At the same time, this type of separation element ensures reliable separation of the first and second materials. For materials arranged back-to-back in a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction, a fixed-wall element ensures simple and reliable separation of the materials.

[0021] In one variation, the material storage container may further include a perforated element for breaking the separating element. It will be understood that, at the latest, in cases where material located downstream of the separating element along the discharge direction needs to be used in the manufacture of dental restorations, an option for removing such material from the material storage container through the supply port must be provided. For this purpose, the separating effect of the separating element must be eliminated, for example, by breaking the separating element. This can be achieved relatively easily and reliably by means of a suitable perforation profile, such as a suitable point within the receiving space or a suitable serrated pattern.

[0022] The objective is also achieved by a method for filling a material storage container for materials used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations. The method includes introducing a first material and a second material into a receiving space of the material storage container. The first material and the second material differ in at least one material property. Furthermore, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the material storage container. Alternatively or additionally, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Therefore, filling the material storage container includes three variations. In a first variation, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction. In a second variation, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. A third variation is a combination of the first and second variations. To implement such a variation using two materials, the materials can be arranged, for example, in a checkerboard pattern. This means that the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Then, the second material is arranged downstream of the first material along the discharge direction, and the first material is arranged downstream of the second material. A third variation can also be implemented using three or more materials, all of which differ in at least one material property. Materials arranged consecutively along the discharge direction must necessarily be introduced into the receiving space sequentially. Materials arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction can be introduced into the receiving space simultaneously or sequentially. This creates a material storage container that can be used to manufacture dental restorations faithful to the original tooth, as previously described. Specifically, dental restorations with color gradients from light to dark and / or transparency gradients from high to low transparency can be manufactured in this manner.

[0023] Dental restorations that can be manufactured using the storage container described above include, for example, crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and high-mount inlays. Dental restorations can also be partial dentures that replicate at least one tooth and gingival tissue.

[0024] Furthermore, the suitability of the material storage container for manufacturing dental prostheses does not preclude the possibility that the material storage container may also be suitable for manufacturing components for other applications (such as for manufacturing sensors or jewelry).

[0025] In one variation, the method further includes reducing the viscosity of the materials before introducing the first material and / or the second material into the receiving space. Reduced viscosity improves the flowability of the material and thus facilitates its introduction into the receiving space. For example, viscosity can be reduced by heating the material.

[0026] In variations where at least two materials are introduced sequentially into a receiving space, the viscosity of the materials to be introduced into the receiving space can be consistently reduced, for example, by heating the materials. It can be ensured that the viscosity of the previously introduced material increases again before the introduction of subsequent materials. This can be achieved, for example, by allowing the first introduced material to cool over a specific period of time. Alternatively, the first introduced material can be actively cooled to increase its viscosity again. In this way, precise separation of materials within the receiving space can be maintained or achieved, especially without the use of a separation element.

[0027] The objective is also achieved through an apparatus for additively manufacturing dental restorations. The apparatus includes a construction space for additively constructing the dental restoration and a material storage container according to the invention, the material storage container being coupled to the construction space in a material delivery manner. Specifically, the apparatus includes an outlet for removing material not used in additively manufacturing the dental restoration. For the material storage container, there are three variations as explained above. In the first variation, the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space. In the second variation, the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. The third variation involves a combination of the first and second variations, meaning that materials with different material properties are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space and also consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. To implement such a variation using two materials, these materials can be arranged, for example, in a checkerboard pattern. This means that the first and second materials are arranged consecutively along a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. Then, along the discharge direction, the second material is downstream of the first material and the first material is downstream of the second material. A third variant can also be implemented using three or more materials, all of which differ in at least one material property. In this context, the discharge direction should be understood as the direction in which the material received in the receiving space flows towards the supply port as the material storage container discharges through the supply port, meaning that the material received in the receiving space is used for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration. All three variants can produce dental restorations that highly replicate the original tooth. This is because natural teeth and natural gingiva have properties of local variation in many aspects. In this context, the portion of the dental restoration that replicates the natural gingiva can also be called the denture base. This means that the properties may differ at different locations in the natural tooth and natural gingiva. This applies particularly to optical properties, especially color and translucency, but also to mechanical properties (e.g., hardness and strength) and chemical properties (in other words, the composition of the materials constituting the natural tooth and natural gingiva). The material storage container according to the invention and the device according to the invention comprising the container take this into account. Therefore, at least the first and second materials can also be used in dental restorations manufactured using the device according to the invention, and thus, locally different properties can also be implemented in the dental restoration. Specifically, dental restorations with color gradients from light to dark and / or transparency gradients from high to low transparency can be manufactured in this way.

[0028] Dental restorations that can be manufactured using the device include crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and high-mount inlays. Dental restorations can also be partial dentures that replicate at least one tooth and gingival tissue.

[0029] Furthermore, the suitability of the device for manufacturing dental prostheses does not preclude the possibility that the material storage container may also be suitable for manufacturing components for other applications (such as for manufacturing sensors or jewelry).

[0030] Regarding the discharge port, the device according to the invention includes two variations. The discharge port is provided on the material storage container, meaning the material storage container includes the discharge port. Alternatively, the device is provided with the discharge port. In this case, the material storage container can be configured without a discharge port. In both variations, material not used for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration can be removed through the discharge port. This configuration makes it possible to discharge the material after it has been completely unused or only partially used to manufacture a portion of the dental restoration. This is particularly advantageous when subsequent portions of the dental restoration are to be manufactured with different materials. In the case where the material has not been used at all to manufacture the dental restoration, subsequently arranged materials thus become available. This configuration is particularly relevant if at least the first and second materials are arranged consecutively in the receiving space along the discharge direction.

[0031] The objective is also achieved through a method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations. The method includes: The first constituent layer of the dental restoration is created using a first material and the second constituent layer of the dental restoration is subsequently created using a second material, and / or The constituent layers are created using the first material and the second material.

[0032] The first material and the second material differ in at least one material property. Furthermore, both the first and second materials are supplied using the same material storage container. In a first alternative to the method, the sequentially created constituent layers of the dental prosthesis are manufactured using materials having at least one different material property. In a second alternative to the method, two materials differing in at least one material property are used to create the same constituent layer. This means that a first portion of this constituent layer is created using the first material and a second portion is created using the second material. Using this type of method, dental prostheses that highly replicate the original tooth can be manufactured. This is because natural teeth and natural gingiva have the property of local variation in many aspects. In this context, the portion of the dental prosthesis that replicates the natural gingiva can also be referred to as the denture base. This means that the properties may differ at different locations in the natural tooth and natural gingiva. This applies particularly to optical properties, especially color and translucency, but also to mechanical properties (e.g., hardness and strength) and chemical properties (in other words, the composition of the materials constituting the natural tooth and natural gingiva). The method takes this into account, wherein a first material and a second material differing in at least one material property are used. Specifically, this allows for the creation of dental restorations with color gradients from light to dark and / or transparency gradients from high to low. Furthermore, the method according to the invention is relatively simple because both the first and second materials are supplied using the same material storage container.

[0033] Regarding the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the present invention, the dental restoration may be, for example, a crown, veneer, bridge, inlay, or onlay. The dental restoration may also be a partial denture that replicates at least one tooth and gingival tissue.

[0034] Alternatively, the method according to the invention can also be used to manufacture components for other purposes, such as for manufacturing sensors or jewelry.

[0035] The method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the present invention can be performed particularly using the material storage container according to the present invention. As previously stated, the material storage container according to the present invention can be configured according to a first variant, in which the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction of the receiving space. This type of material storage container is particularly suitable for use in conjunction with a first alternative to the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the present invention (in other words, an alternative to the method in which the constituent layers of the dental restoration created sequentially in time are made of materials having at least one different material property). Also as previously stated, the material storage container according to the present invention can be configured according to a second variant. In this case, the first material and the second material are arranged consecutively in a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. This variant of the material storage container according to the present invention is particularly suitable for implementing the second alternative to the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations, in which two materials different in at least one material property are used to create the same constituent layer. The third variant of the material storage container according to the present invention, also explained above, is particularly suitable for combining the first alternative to the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations with the second alternative to the method for manufacturing dental restorations.

[0036] The aforementioned at least one material property can describe, in particular, the optical, mechanical, or chemical properties of the material's color and / or translucency. As previously mentioned, natural teeth and natural gingiva also possess locally distinct optical, mechanical, and chemical properties. Therefore, particularly realistic dental restorations can be fabricated using at least one first material and one second material, which differ in these material properties. This is especially true for color and translucency, as both natural teeth and natural gingiva exhibit color and translucency gradations.

[0037] In one variation, the method further includes discharging the first and / or second materials not used in manufacturing the dental restoration. Thus, the first and / or second materials not used in additive manufacturing of the dental restoration can be removed. This allows materials to be discharged after they have been completely unused or only partially used in manufacturing the dental restoration. This is particularly advantageous when subsequent portions of the dental restoration are to be manufactured with different materials. In cases where the material has been completely unused in manufacturing the dental restoration, subsequently arranged materials thus become available. This configuration is particularly relevant if at least the first and second materials are arranged consecutively in the receiving space along the discharge direction.

[0038] In one option, the expelled first material and / or expelled second material can be collected in a receiving container. It will be understood that the order of the first and second materials in the receiving container is reversed compared to a material storage container. Depending on the material, the use of a receiving container can facilitate or enable the reuse or disposal of materials not used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations.

[0039] It will be understood that, in the case of a method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the second alternative, this means that a first portion of the constituent layer is created using a first material and a second portion of the constituent layer is created using a second material, and the boundary or the progression of material properties between the first and second materials can be fixed in the space of the dental restoration to be manufactured, in other words, fixed in the construction space. By fixing the dental restoration to be manufactured with respect to the boundary between the first and second materials or with respect to the spatial fixation of material properties, desired properties can be achieved, or at least the desired different material properties or the desired progression of material properties within the dental restoration can be realized.

[0040] Regarding all aspects of the invention, in other words, regarding the material storage container according to the invention, the method for filling the material storage container according to the invention, the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, and the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, all materials (in other words, at least the first and second materials) need to be fluid at least during their processing. Specifically, the materials used are liquid at least during their processing, and therefore the viscosities of the materials may be substantially the same, similar, or different. In another variation, these materials may be paste-like; in other words, the viscosity of the material may be significantly higher than that of liquid water at a temperature of 23°C. Optionally, the materials may also be heated if it is necessary to reduce the viscosity.

[0041] Preferably, the material used for stereolithography is adjusted such that the viscosity of the material (depending on the material temperature during the processing) is within 100 mPa. s to 100 Pa s, preferably 250 mPa s to 50 Pa s, especially preferably 500 mPa s to 49 Pa The material temperature during processing is preferably within the range of 10°C to 70°C, particularly preferably within the range of 20°C to 65°C or 30°C to 60°C.

[0042] In this context, viscosity is typically measured at 23°C (in other words, at room temperature) using a plate viscometer (shear rate 10 / s). It will be understood that the features, effects, and / or advantages mentioned in relation to the material storage container according to the invention, the method for filling the material storage container according to the invention, the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, and the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention also apply to other aspects of the material storage container according to the invention, the method for filling the material storage container according to the invention, the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, and the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The present invention will now be explained with reference to the various embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 A first example of an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in a first operating state, is shown. The apparatus includes a material storage container according to the invention, and a method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention will be performed by means of said apparatus. Figure 2 It shows the second working state. Figure 1 The device, Figure 3 A second example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 4 It shows the second working state. Figure 3 The device, Figure 5 A third example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 6 It shows the second working state. Figure 5 The device, Figure 7 It passes through plane VII-VII Figure 5 The cross-section of the device, Figure 8 It passes through plane VIII-VIII Figure 6 The cross-section of the device, Figure 9 A fourth example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 10 It shows the second working state. Figure 9 The device, Figure 11 It passes through along plane XI-XI Figure 9 The cross-section of the device, Figure 12 It passes through along plane XII-XII Figure 10 The cross-section of the device, Figure 13 It passes through plane XIII-XIII Figure 10 The cross-section of the device, Figure 14 A fifth example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 15 It shows the second working state. Figure 14 The device, Figure 16 A sixth example of an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 17 It shows the second working state. Figure 16 The device, Figure 18 A seventh example of an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 19 It shows the second working state. Figure 18 The device, Figure 20 It shows the third working state. Figure 18 The device, Figure 21 It shows the fourth working state. Figure 18 The device, Figure 22 It shows the fifth working state. Figure 18 The device, Figure 23 An eighth example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 24 It shows the second working state. Figure 23 The device, Figure 25 A ninth example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 26 It shows the second working state. Figure 25 The device, Figure 27 A tenth example of the apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 28 It shows the second working state. Figure 27 The device, Figure 29 Eleventh example of an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 30 It shows the second working state. Figure 29 The device, Figure 31 A twelfth example of an apparatus for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention, in its first operating state, is shown. Figure 32 It shows the second working state. Figure 31 The device, Figures 33 to 35 The following diagram illustrates different operating states of a variant of the material storage container according to the invention, which has a separation element. Figures 36 to 38 The diagram illustrates a different operating state of another variation of the material storage container according to the invention, featuring a separation element. Figures 39 to 41 The diagram illustrates a different operating state of yet another variation of the material storage container according to the invention, featuring a separation element. Figures 42 to 45 This is an illustration of a method for filling a material storage container according to the present invention, and Figure 46 and Figure 47 A thirteenth example of an additive manufacturing apparatus according to the invention is shown, wherein the apparatus includes a material supply container according to the invention, and a method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations according to the invention can be performed by means of the apparatus. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A first example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. Figure 1 This demonstrates the first working state, which corresponds to the commencement of additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12, and Figure 2 The second working state is shown, which corresponds to the end of additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12.

[0045] It will be understood that the dental restoration 12 is shown only schematically in the diagram. For example, dental restoration 12 is a crown.

[0046] The device 10 includes a construction space shell 14, which has a cylindrical shape, is closed on one side, and extends along the construction direction B.

[0047] Within the construction space shell 14, the construction platform 16 is guided so that the construction platform 16 can move along the construction direction B, in other words, displacement.

[0048] Therefore, the construction space shell 14 and the construction platform 16 define the construction space 18 in which the dental restoration 12 can be manufactured, as will be explained in more detail below. Thus, the construction space 18 is also substantially cylindrical, in this example a circular-cylindrical shape, with the associated cylindrical axis coinciding with the construction direction B. It will be understood that other cross-sectional shapes are possible in other examples.

[0049] Furthermore, the closed end of the construction space housing 14 is at least partially transparent. The exposure unit 20 (shown schematically only) is arranged at the closed end of the construction space housing 14, but outside the construction space 18.

[0050] The device 10 further includes a material storage container 22 coupled to the construction space 18 in a material transport manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the material storage container 22 and the construction space 18 are coupled via a conduit 24 in a material transport manner.

[0051] The material storage container 22 includes a receiving space 26, which is substantially cylindrical (e.g., circular-cylindrical) and extends along the cylindrical axis. A supply port 28 is centrally located at a first end of the receiving space 26 and coupled to the receiving space 26 in a material delivery manner, such that material can be supplied from the receiving space 26 through the supply port 28 for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12. In the example shown, a conduit 24 is connected to the supply port 28.

[0052] On the end face of the cylindrical receiving space 26 opposite to the supply port 28, the receiving space 26 is defined by a movable wall 30. This movable wall is coupled to a drive device 32, shown only schematically, such that material can be ejected from the receiving space 26 by moving the wall 30 in the direction of the supply port 28. Therefore, the direction in which the wall 30 can move is also referred to as the discharge direction E. The discharge direction E substantially coincides with the cylindrical axis of the cylindrical receiving space 26. Since the material storage container 22 and the construction space 18 are coupled via conduit 24, material is supplied in the construction space 18.

[0053] The apparatus 10 shown in the figure for additively manufacturing a dental restoration 12 is operated via stereolithography. This means that the dental restoration 12 is built layer by layer, as the material of one constituent layer is introduced from the material storage container 22 into the build space 18 by actuating the drive device 32 and displacing the wall 30. Simultaneously, the build platform is moved such that the volume increment resulting from the displacement of the wall 30 corresponds to the volume increment resulting from the displacement of the build platform 16. The apparatus 10 represents a closed system in which the material for additively manufacturing the dental restoration 12 is always isolated from the environment (especially the ambient air) by the components of the apparatus 10. Due to the closed nature of the system, the build platform 16 and the wall 30 are also hydraulically coupled via the material present in the build space 18 and / or the material storage container 22. Due to this configuration, the build platform 16 can be mounted movably but without its own drive device. The build platform 16 is then indirectly driven by the drive device 32 and hydraulic coupling.

[0054] In the case where device 10 has an optional discharge port 34, which will be explained in more detail below, it may also be necessary to enable the construction platform 16 to be locked, in other words, to selectively prevent the construction platform from moving. This prevents the construction platform 16 from moving as material is discharged through the discharge port 34.

[0055] The material of the constituent layers is then cured in a position-specific manner using the exposure unit 20. This procedure is repeated until the dental restoration 12 is fully fabricated with multiple constituent layers.

[0056] Example 1 exist Figure 1 In the example, a total of three materials are arranged in the receiving space 26, in other words, the first material M1, the second material M2 and the third material M3.

[0057] These materials M1, M2, and M3 differ in at least one material property, which is described in particular as optical, mechanical, and / or chemical properties of the material's color and / or translucency.

[0058] For easier explanation, we will assume that the three materials M1, M2, and M3 have different colors.

[0059] exist Figure 1 In the implementation scheme, the three materials M1, M2, and M3 are arranged sequentially along the discharge direction E of the receiving space 26.

[0060] The three materials M1, M2, and M3 each form a separate visible layer. This means that, starting from the supply port 28, the visible layer of the first material M1 is initially arranged; then, along the direction toward the wall 30, the visible layer of the second material M2 is adjacent to the visible layer of the first material M1; then, along the direction toward the wall 30, the visible layer of the third material M3 is adjacent to the visible layer of the first material.

[0061] Therefore, using apparatus 10, the dental restoration 12 can be manufactured layer by layer using the stereolithography method described above. Due to the arrangement of materials M1, M2, and M3 in the receiving space 26, the first portion of the dental restoration 12 is initially manufactured using the first material M1. This portion includes one or more constituent layers. Subsequently, the second portion of the dental restoration 12 is manufactured using the second material M2. This portion also includes one or more constituent layers. Afterward, the third portion of the dental restoration 12 is manufactured using the third material M3. The third portion also includes one or more constituent layers.

[0062] In the illustrative example shown for dental restoration 12, the first part is lighter in color than the second part. The second part is lighter in color than the third part.

[0063] This is in the future Figure 1 The first working state and Figure 2 The difference becomes apparent when comparing the second working state.

[0064] In addition, from Figure 2 As can be seen from the illustration, the color of the dental restoration 12 is affected by the arrangement of the dental restoration 12 within the manufacturing layers of the three materials M1, M2, and M3 (in other words, within the construction space 18).

[0065] Optionally, the material storage container 22 also includes a discharge port 34. This allows for the controlled removal of material not used in the additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12. The material can be transferred, for example, to a waste container (not shown in detail).

[0066] Alternatively or additionally, this type of outlet 34 is provided on the construction space shell 14.

[0067] If the construction space shell 14 or material storage container 22 is provided with an outlet 34, the first material M1, the second material M2, or the third material M3 can be discharged during the additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12, so that it is not necessary to use all the material present in the receiving space 26. This provides another option for influencing the construction of the dental restoration with materials M1, M2, and M3. In this context, in particular, the amounts of the first material M1, the second material M2, and / or the third material M3 used to manufacture the dental restoration 12 can be selected with considerable freedom. This also makes it possible to selectively adjust the properties of the dental restoration 12, such as the color of the three materials M1, M2, and M3.

[0068] The variant of the material storage container 22 with a discharge port 34 also has the following advantages: the first material M1, the second material M2 and / or the third material M3 to be discharged do not have to pass through the construction space 18, which may mix with the materials located in the construction space.

[0069] Example 2 Figure 3 and Figure 4 A second example of the apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the first example will be discussed.

[0070] These relate to the materials in receiving space 26.

[0071] In contrast to the first example, in the second example, multiple materials (in other words, far more than three) that differ in at least one material property are arranged in the receiving space 26.

[0072] Multiple materials are arranged sequentially along the discharge direction of the receiving space 26, resulting in a visible, continuous progression of at least one material property.

[0073] Again, we assume that the material properties are related to color, which results in a continuous color gradient along the emission direction E.

[0074] Therefore, using the methods essentially explained above, it is possible to fabricate a dental restoration 12 that also possesses material properties (e.g., color). Again, by positioning the dental restoration 12 within the construction space 18, the progression of material properties can be further influenced. Furthermore, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The implementation plan also provides an optional discharge outlet 34.

[0075] Example 3 Figure 5 and Figure 6 A third example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following discussion, only the differences from the first and second examples will be discussed.

[0076] This difference is related to the arrangement of materials.

[0077] In the third example, only two materials, M1 and M2, are arranged in the receiving space 26.

[0078] Compared to the previous example, the first material M1 and the second material M2 are arranged consecutively along a direction Q perpendicular to the emission direction.

[0079] Along the emission direction E, the first material M1 and the second material M2 are arranged side by side.

[0080] This means that the movement of wall 30 always results in two different materials, M1 and M2, arriving side-by-side in the construction space 18. This is under consideration Figure 7 This becomes especially evident in the cross-sectional view.

[0081] Secondly, for simplicity, we can assume that materials M1 and M2 have different colors.

[0082] Therefore, a dental restoration 12 can be manufactured. However, now, the different parts of the dental restoration 12 are not made of different materials M1 and M2 along the construction direction B, but are instead formed of different materials M1 and M2 that both extend along the construction direction B (see in detail). Figure 8 ).

[0083] If using Figure 5 and Figure 6 In a method for additively manufacturing a dental restoration 12 using the apparatus 10, each manufactured component layer is created using both a first material M1 and a second material M2. Therefore, the first portion of each layer is manufactured using the first material M1, and the second portion of each layer is manufactured using the second material M2.

[0084] Although the third example is explained using separate, visible layers of the first material M1 and the second material M2, it will be understood that in the third example, multiple materials arranged sequentially perpendicular to the discharge direction E of the receiving space 26 can also be used, resulting in a visible, continuous progression of at least one material property. In other words, the continuous progression of material properties as explained in the second example can also be combined with the sequential arrangement of materials along a direction Q perpendicular to the discharge direction E.

[0085] Example 4 Figure 9 and Figure 10 A fourth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0086] These differences are related to the arrangement of materials.

[0087] In the fourth example, a total of four materials, M1, M2, M3, and M4, are arranged in the material storage container 22, and these materials differ in at least one material property.

[0088] The materials are arranged consecutively along the emission direction E and in a direction perpendicular to the emission direction E.

[0089] More precisely, the first material M1 and the second material M2 are arranged in a first part adjacent to the supply port 28 along the discharge direction E, and the first material M1 and the second material M2 are arranged consecutively in this part along a direction Q perpendicular to the discharge direction E.

[0090] Along the direction toward wall 30, this first part is adjacent to the second part, so the second part is located between the first part and wall 30 along the discharge direction E. The third material M3 and the fourth material M4 are arranged in the second part, and the third material M3 and the fourth material M4 are arranged consecutively in the second part along the direction Q perpendicular to the discharge direction E.

[0091] Therefore, the material storage container 22 according to the fourth example can be regarded as a combination of the material storage containers 22 of the first and third examples.

[0092] If using Figure 9 and Figure 10 The dental prosthesis 12 is manufactured using the apparatus 10. Initially, the first part of the dental prosthesis 12 is manufactured using both a first material M1 and a second material M2. Subsequently, the second part of the dental prosthesis 12 is manufactured using both a third material M3 and a fourth material M4. The first and second parts of the dental prosthesis 12 are adjacent to each other along the construction direction B.

[0093] As always, in addition to the selection of materials M1, M2, M3, and M4, the dental restoration 12 can also be affected by its arrangement within the construction space 18 (see [reference]). Figure 13 ).

[0094] Although the fourth example is explained using discrete, visually visible layers of first material M1, second material M2, third material M3, and fourth material M4, it will be understood that multiple materials arranged sequentially can also be used in the fourth example, resulting in a visually visible, continuous progression of at least one material property. This may apply to materials arranged sequentially along the emission direction E and / or materials arranged sequentially perpendicular to the emission direction. In other words, the continuous progression of material properties as explained in the second example can also be combined with the fourth example.

[0095] Example 5 Figure 14 and Figure 15A fifth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0096] The fifth example is a variation of the first example, except that the construction direction of the dental restoration 12 is changed. In the first example, the dental restoration 12 is constructed from bottom to top or from bottom to top, while in the fifth example, the dental restoration is constructed from top to bottom or from top to bottom.

[0097] Example 6 Figure 16 and Figure 17 A sixth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0098] The sixth example is a variation of the first example, except that the construction direction of the dental restoration is changed. In the first example, the dental restoration 12 is constructed from bottom to top or from bottom to top, while in the sixth example, the dental restoration is constructed from one side to the other.

[0099] Example 7 Figures 18 to 22 A seventh example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0100] The seventh example can also be considered a variation of the first example.

[0101] The device 10 also has a receiving container 36.

[0102] This container is connected to the construction space 18 via an additional conduit 38 for material delivery.

[0103] Like the material storage container 22, the receiving container 36 also includes a receiving space 40, one side of which is connected to the material supply port 42 and the other side is defined by a movable wall 44. The wall 44 is also coupled to the drive unit 46 (shown schematically only) such that the wall can be selectively moved.

[0104] By actuating the walls 30, 44 and the construction platform 16 accordingly, the following elements or sub-steps of the method for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12 can now be implemented.

[0105] Materials can be introduced from the material storage container 22 into the construction space 18. For this to be done, the wall 30 must be moved toward the supply port 28 of the material storage container 22. The construction platform 16 must be raised accordingly, in other words, moved away from the exposure unit 20. Meanwhile, the wall 44 remains stationary, meaning that the wall 44 remains immobile.

[0106] Similarly, material can be introduced from receiving container 36 (if any) into construction space 18. For this, wall 44 will move toward supply port 42 of receiving container 36. Construction platform 16 must be raised accordingly, in other words, moved away from exposure unit 20. Meanwhile, wall 30 remains stationary, meaning wall 30 remains immobile.

[0107] Additionally, materials can be transferred from the construction space 18 or the material storage container 22 to the receiving container 36. For this purpose, the wall 30 of the material storage container 22 moves toward the supply port 28. The wall 44 of the receiving container 36 moves accordingly away from the supply port 42 of the receiving container 36. In this context, the construction platform 16 remains stationary.

[0108] Conversely, materials can also be transferred from the receiving container 36 (if any) or the construction space 18 to the material supply container 22. For this, the wall 44 of the receiving container 36 moves toward the supply port 42 of the receiving container 36. The wall 30 of the material supply container 22 moves away from the supply port 28. The construction platform 16 remains stationary.

[0109] These elements or sub-steps of the method for additive manufacturing of dental restorations 12 can be combined in any desired manner. Figures 18 to 22 The arrows indicate the movement of walls 30 and 44 and construction platform 16. An asterisk indicates a blockage of one of walls 30 or 44 or construction platform 16. See below for reference. Figures 18 to 22 To illustrate with illustrative examples.

[0110] Initially, the first part of the dental prosthesis 12 is constructed from a first material M1. This first part comprises multiple constituent layers. For this purpose, the wall 30 of the material storage container 22 continuously moves toward the supply port 28. The construction platform 16 moves accordingly and continuously away from the exposure unit 20. During the fabrication of the first part of the dental prosthesis 12, the wall 44 of the receiving container 36 does not move. Figure 18 In the implementation scheme, the receiving container 36 contains no material, therefore it can also be said that the receiving container 36 remains closed (see in particular). Figure 18 and Figure 19 ).

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the first material M1 is used entirely to construct the first part of the dental restoration 12.

[0112] However, the subsequent second part of the dental restoration 12 should not be manufactured using the second material M2, but rather using the third material M3.

[0113] Therefore, after completing the first part of the dental restoration 12, the construction platform 16 is kept stationary. Then, by actuating the wall 30 of the material storage container 22, the second material M2 is transferred through the construction space 18 (in other words, through the lower part of the construction space 18) into the receiving container 36. For this purpose, the wall 44 of the receiving container 36 moves accordingly away from the supply port 42 of the receiving container 36 (see specifically...). Figure 19 and Figure 20 ).

[0114] This process continues until virtually all of the second material M2 is within the receiving space 40 of the receiving container 36.

[0115] Subsequently, the second part of the dental restoration 12 is fabricated using the third material M3. For this purpose, wall 30 moves again toward the supply port 28 of the material storage container 22, and the construction platform 16 moves accordingly away from the exposure unit 20. In this context, wall 44 remains stationary (see specifically...). Figure 20 and Figure 21 ).

[0116] The subsequent third part of the dental restoration 12 will now be manufactured using the second material M2. Once the second material M2 has been pre-transferred into the receiving container 36, the wall 44 of the receiving container 36 must be moved toward the supply port 42 of the receiving container 36 to achieve this. The construction platform 16 must be raised accordingly, in other words, moved away from the exposure unit 20. During the manufacture of the third part, the wall 30 of the material storage container 22 is not moved (see specifically...). Figure 21 and Figure 22 ).

[0117] Therefore, in general, by using the receiving container 36, the order in which materials M1, M2 and M3 are arranged in the material storage container 22 can be separated from the order in which materials M1, M2 and M3 are used to construct the dental restoration 12.

[0118] Example 8 Figure 23 and Figure 24 An eighth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0119] The eighth example differs from the previous examples in that it provides a total of two material storage containers 22 as components of the device 10. For clarity, the suffixes a and b will be used below to refer to the material storage containers 22. This also applies to the components of the material storage containers 22 and the components or assemblies connected to them.

[0120] Two material storage containers 22a and 22b are each connected to the construction space 18 via associated pipes 24a and 24b.

[0121] In the first material storage container 22a, a total of three materials M1, M2 and M3 are arranged in a visible layer along the discharge direction E.

[0122] In the illustrated implementation scheme, for example, materials M1, M2, and M3 have different colors.

[0123] In addition, a total of three materials (referred to as fourth material M4, fifth material M5, and sixth material M6) are arranged in the second material storage container 22b. These materials M4, M5, and M6 are also arranged in a visible layer along the discharge direction E.

[0124] In the illustrated implementation scheme, for example, materials M4, M5, and M6 have different translucency.

[0125] Therefore, the device 10 can be used to manufacture dental restorations 12 with different colored portions. This will be achieved by using materials M1, M2, and M3 of different colors.

[0126] Furthermore, the dental restoration can have 12 sections with varying degrees of translucency. This will be achieved by using materials M4, M5, and M6 with different translucency levels.

[0127] In other words, during the additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12 in the construction space 18, materials from material storage container 22a and material storage container 22b can be mixed to create a constituent layer. However, this is optional. The constituent layer can also be constructed using only one material from material storage container 22a or only one material from material storage container 22b.

[0128] When using both materials from material storage container 22a and materials from material storage container 22b, the mixing ratio can be adjusted as desired by moving walls 30a and 30b.

[0129] Similarly, each material storage container 22a, 22b is equipped with optional discharge ports 34a, 34b, so that material from the two material storage containers 22a, 22b can be transferred to a waste container when necessary.

[0130] Therefore, in general, it is possible to manufacture dental restorations 12 that not only have color gradients but also translucency gradients.

[0131] Will understand, Figure 23 and Figure 24The apparatus 10 (which has been explained here using discrete material layers visible to the naked eye) can of course be varied such that multiple materials are arranged in one or both of the material storage containers 22a, 22b, resulting in a visible, continuous progression of related material properties (e.g., color and / or translucency).

[0132] We will also learn that Figure 23 and Figure 24 The implementation plan can also be combined with Figures 18 to 22 The implementation scheme is combined so that the material sequence in the material storage containers 22a and / or 22b can be separated from the material sequence in the dental restoration 12.

[0133] Example 9 Figure 25 and Figure 26 A ninth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0134] The ninth example can be better explained by comparing it with the first example.

[0135] The difference between the device 10 according to the ninth example and the device 10 according to the first example is that the device 10 according to the ninth example is configured as an open system, while the device 10 according to the first example is configured as a closed system.

[0136] This means that the device 10 according to the ninth example has an upward-opening slot 48 into which material for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12 is introduced by means of the supply port 28 of the material storage container 22.

[0137] In principle, the fill level of slot 48 can be varied, as long as the specific minimum fill level required for the additive manufacturing process is maintained.

[0138] In order to keep the material in the tank 48 uniform, or to homogenize the material when necessary, a mixing device 50 (also called a mixer) is arranged at the bottom of the tank 48.

[0139] In a manner similar to the first example, the bottom of the groove 48 is at least partially transparent, so that the material inside the groove 48 can be cured in a position-selective manner by means of the exposure unit 20 arranged below the bottom of the groove 48.

[0140] Because the filling level in the slot 48 can vary, another difference between the device 10 according to the ninth example and the first example is that, although the first material M1, the second material M2 and the third material M3 are provided in the material storage container 22 in the form of visible discrete layers, a gradual (in other words, continuous) change in material properties can still be implemented in the dental restoration 12 to be manufactured.

[0141] This is because different materials arranged sequentially in the material storage container 22 can be mixed in the tank 48.

[0142] Therefore, in a purely illustrative example, during the method for additively manufacturing the dental restoration 12, starting with only the first material M1 present in the slot 48, at some point, the last residue of the first material M1 is added from the material storage container 22 to the slot 48. If the material storage container 22 is subsequently further emptied, the second material M2 is thus added to the slot 48. As the manufacturing process continues, a mixture of the first material M1 and the second material M2 appears in the slot 48, with the proportion of the second material M2 continuously increasing. This also applies to the transition from the second material M2 to the third material M3.

[0143] It will be understood that, in the ninth example, the material storage container 22 is also optionally provided with a drain outlet 34. Alternatively or additionally, the tank 48 may be provided with a drain outlet 34. This leads to the advantages explained above.

[0144] Example 10 Figure 27 and Figure 28 A tenth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0145] The tenth example can be regarded as a variant of the ninth example. The only difference between the material storage container 22 of the tenth example and the material storage container of the ninth example is that a total of five materials M1, M2, M3, M4 and M5 are arranged in it.

[0146] In addition to manufacturing the dental restoration 12 Figure 27 and Figure 28 Examples of this technology are also particularly well-suited for manufacturing multiple pieces of jewelry or sensors.

[0147] Example 11 Figure 29 and Figure 30 An eleventh example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0148] The eleventh example can be better explained by referring to the eighth example, which relates to closed systems, while the eleventh example relates to open systems.

[0149] Furthermore, a total of two material storage containers 22 are provided as components of the device 10. For clarity, the suffixes a and b will again be used below to refer to the material storage containers 22. This also applies to the components of the material storage containers and the components and parts connected to them.

[0150] Two material storage containers 22a and 22b are connected to the construction space 18 via a material delivery method. This means that materials can be added to the tank 48 using the material storage containers 22a and 22b.

[0151] In the first material storage container 22a, a total of three materials M1, M2 and M3 are arranged in a visible layer along the discharge direction E.

[0152] In the illustrated implementation scheme, for example, materials M1, M2, and M3 have different colors.

[0153] In addition, a total of three materials (referred to as fourth material M4, fifth material M5, and sixth material M6) are arranged in the second material storage container 22b. These materials are also arranged in a visible layer along the discharge direction E.

[0154] In the illustrated implementation scheme, for example, materials M4, M5, and M6 have different translucency.

[0155] Therefore, the device 10 can be used to manufacture dental restorations 12 with different colored portions. This will be achieved by using materials M1, M2, and M3 of different colors.

[0156] Furthermore, the dental restoration can have 12 sections with varying degrees of translucency. This will be achieved by using materials M4, M5, and M6 with different translucency levels.

[0157] In other words, during the additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12 in the construction space 18, materials from material storage container 22a and material storage container 22b can be mixed to create a constituent layer. However, this is optional. The constituent layer can also be constructed using only one material from material storage container 22a or only one material from material storage container 22b.

[0158] When using both materials from material storage container 22a and materials from material storage container 22b, the mixing ratio can be adjusted as desired by moving walls 30a and 30b.

[0159] Similarly, each material storage container 22a, 22b is equipped with optional discharge ports 34a, 34b, so that material from the two material storage containers 22a, 22b can be transferred to a waste container when necessary.

[0160] Therefore, in general, it is possible to manufacture dental restorations 12 that not only have color gradients but also translucency gradients.

[0161] As explained above regarding the ninth example, in the eleventh example, because the filling level in the slot 48 can vary, although the materials M1, M2, M3, as well as M4, M5, and M6 are supplied in the form of visible discrete layers, a gradual (in other words, continuous) variation in material properties can be implemented in the dental restoration 12 to be manufactured.

[0162] Example 12 Figure 31 and Figure 32 A twelfth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. In the following sections, only the differences from the previous examples will be discussed.

[0163] Example 12 is a variation of Example 9, but with a change in the direction in which the dental restoration is constructed. In Example 9, the dental restoration 12 is constructed from bottom to top (in other words, from bottom to top), while in Example 12, the dental restoration is constructed from top to bottom (in other words, from top to bottom).

[0164] Furthermore, in the twelfth example, the material storage container 22 is oriented horizontally rather than vertically.

[0165] As explained in many of the aforementioned examples, different materials (in other words, at least the first material M1 and the second material M2) can be supplied in the material storage container 22 as separate, visible layers, with the first material M1 and the second material M2 arranged sequentially along the discharge direction E.

[0166] In order to reliably separate the materials arranged in succession along the discharge direction E in the material storage container 22, separation elements 52 may be provided. These separation elements are arranged between adjacent materials, in other words, between the first material M1 and the second material M2 or between the second material M2 and the third material M3, and so on, so as to separate the adjacent materials from each other.

[0167] Figures 33 to 35 Illustrative Material Storage Container 22 under Different Operating States: This illustrates a first variant of this type of separation element 52.

[0168] In this variant, the separation element includes a membrane 54, which may alternatively be configured as a diaphragm.

[0169] This membrane 54 essentially covers the entire boundary extension between the materials to be separated. Figures 33 to 35 The separating element 52 also has a guide element 56, which in this embodiment is configured as a thickened edge portion of the membrane 54. The guide element 56 is used to guide the separating element 52 in the receiving space 26 such that the separating element can only move in the discharge direction E.

[0170] exist Figures 33 to 35 In the implementation scheme, the material storage container 22 is further equipped with a perforated element 58.

[0171] The perforated element 58 is used to break the separating element 52 when material located downstream of the separating element 52 along the discharge direction E is supplied by means of the supply port 28 for additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12.

[0172] exist Figures 30 to 35 In the variant, the perforated element 58 is formed on the one hand by the funnel-shaped converging end portion of the receiving space 26, and on the other hand by the opening leading to the supply port 28.

[0173] Once the material located in front of the separating element 52 along the discharge direction E has been completely removed from the receiving space 26 of the material storage container 22, the membrane 54 is thus applied to the funnel-shaped converging end portion of the receiving space 26 by further actuating the wall 30, and is therefore stretched. In this way, the membrane 54 is placed in a stretched state over the opening leading to the air supply port 28. The mechanical properties of the membrane 54 are chosen such that the membrane breaks in the region of this opening upon further actuation of the wall 30.

[0174] Figures 36 to 38 An alternative embodiment of the perforated element 58 is shown in the figure.

[0175] In this variant, the perforated element 58 includes a protrusion or cover located at a distance above the supply port 28 and offset into the interior of the receiving space 26 along the discharge direction E.

[0176] In this way, when material is removed from the material storage container 22, the membrane 54 of the separating element 52 can be applied to the protrusion or cover, such that this portion of the membrane 54 prevents further movement along the discharge direction E. However, this does not apply to the other portions of the membrane 54 that are not against the protrusion. This would also lead to the anticipated rupture or tearing of the membrane 54.

[0177] Figures 39 to 41 Another variation of the separating element 52 is shown. Compared to the separating element 52 described above, Figures 39 to 41The separating elements shown are not configured to be breakable. Instead, these separating elements 52 are configured as relatively stable disks that move in the discharge direction E as material is removed from the material storage container 22.

[0178] However, in Figures 39 to 41 In the material storage container 22, the supply port 28 is not centrally located on the receiving space 26, but extends laterally or radially from the receiving space 26 with respect to the discharge direction E. Therefore, in this material storage container 22, the separating element 52 may axially contact the supply port side end of the receiving space 26, but will not close the supply port 28 there, because the port actually extends laterally. In this way, materials arranged consecutively along the discharge direction E can be reliably kept separate by means of the separating element 52.

[0179] exist Figures 39 to 41 In a variant, in order to still be able to centrally connect the material storage container 22 to the construction space 18 in a material delivery manner, the material storage container 22 in this variant is additionally equipped with a collection housing 60, through which material leaving the receiving space 26 through the lateral supply port is guided to the central connector.

[0180] In order to use the material storage container 22 (in which materials are arranged) in the manner described above with reference to several examples, the material storage container 22 needs to be filled with the appropriate materials. This will refer to Figures 42 to 45 To explain.

[0181] This example relates to filling a material storage container 22 with material arranged in discrete, visible layers along the discharge direction.

[0182] Initially, a third material was introduced (see...) Figure 42 ).

[0183] For this purpose, tubes, pipes, or syringe needles can be used.

[0184] Optionally, the viscosity of the third material M3 is reduced or kept low before and / or during its introduction. This facilitates the introduction of the third material M3 into the receiving space 26. For example, the viscosity reduction can be achieved by heating the third material M3.

[0185] exist Figure 42 In the example, a heated syringe is used to introduce the third material M3 into the receiving space 26.

[0186] Then, optionally, one can wait until the viscosity of the third material M3 increases again, or simply, until the third material M3 becomes hard or harder again.

[0187] Subsequently, the second material M2 is introduced into the receiving space 26 (see...). Figure 43 ).

[0188] In this case, the viscosity of the second material M2 can be reduced or kept low when it is introduced into the receiving space 26.

[0189] Again, in Figure 43 In the example, a heated syringe is used to introduce the second material M2 into the receiving space 26.

[0190] Then wait until the viscosity of the second material M2 increases again.

[0191] Only after this will the first material M1 be introduced. This will be done in the same way as the previous explanation regarding the third material M3 and the second material M2.

[0192] Once the first material M1 has been fully introduced into the receiving space 26, i.e., the receiving space is closed with the cover 62, in Figure 45 In the implementation scheme, the cover is also provided with a supply port 28.

[0193] Example 13 Figure 46 and Figure 47 A thirteenth example of an apparatus 10 for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration 12 is shown. Figure 46 The overall device is shown, in which the construction space shell 14, material storage container 22 and piping 24 are shown in a transparent manner. Figure 47 Showed from different perspectives Figure 46 The device, wherein, with Figure 46 In comparison, the construction platform 16 and movable walls 30a and 30b are omitted.

[0194] like Figure 46 The working state shown may be associated with the start of additive manufacturing of the dental restoration 12. Therefore, the dental restoration 12 to be manufactured is not shown in detail.

[0195] Similar to the device 10 already described, the thirteenth example of device 10 also includes a construction space shell 14, which has a cylindrical shape, is closed on one side and extends along the construction direction B.

[0196] The construction platform 16 is guided within the construction space shell 14 so that the construction platform 16 can move along the construction direction B, i.e., translate.

[0197] Therefore, the construction space housing 14 and the construction platform 16 define a construction space 18 in which the dental restoration 12 can be produced. The construction space 18 is also substantially cylindrical, shown in this example as a circular cylinder, with the associated cylindrical axis coinciding with the construction direction B. It should be understood that other cross-sectional shapes are possible in other examples.

[0198] Furthermore, the closed end of the construction space housing 14 is designed to be at least partially transparent. The exposure unit 20, shown only schematically, is arranged at the closed end of the construction space housing 14, but outside the construction space 18.

[0199] The apparatus 10 also includes a material storage container 22 coupled to the construction space 18 in a material delivery manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the material storage container 22 and the construction space 18 are coupled via a conduit 24 in a material delivery manner.

[0200] The material storage container 22 has a receiving space 26, which is substantially cylindrical (e.g., circular-cylindrical) and extends along the cylindrical axis. The circular-cylindrical material storage container 22 and therefore one end of the receiving space 26 is closed.

[0201] In the thirteenth example, the receiving space 26 is further subdivided into two sections 26a and 26b by means of a separating element 52. Sections 26a and 26b are arranged front and back along a direction Q oriented perpendicular to the emptying direction E of the material storage container 22. The separating element 52 is designed as a fixed wall element. Furthermore, the separating element is formed as part of the material storage container 22. This means that the peripheral wall (i.e., the cylindrical sleeve in this example) defining the receiving space 26 laterally and the separating element 52 are integrally formed, or at least permanently connected during operation of the device 10.

[0202] Therefore, two different materials M1 and M2 can be arranged in sections 26a and 26b of the receiving space 26. These materials M1 and M2 are then arranged back-to-back along a direction Q oriented perpendicular to the evacuation direction E of the material storage container 22. The separating element 52 reliably separates the materials M1 and M2 from each other. The coupling between the receiving chamber 26 and the construction space 18 is designed such that materials M1 and M2 from the two sections 26a and 26b of the receiving space 26 can enter the conduit 24 through the supply port of the material storage container 22.

[0203] On the end face of the cylindrical receiving space 26 opposite to the supply port 28, each section 26a and 26b of the receiving space 26 is defined by movable walls 30a and 30b, respectively.

[0204] These movable walls 30a, 30b are coupled to a drive device 32, shown only schematically, such that by moving wall 30a toward supply port 28, material M1 can be pushed out from section 26a of receiving space 26, and by moving wall 30b toward supply port 28, material M2 can be pushed out from section 26b of receiving space 26.

[0205] Therefore, the direction in which walls 30a and 30b can move is referred to as the discharge direction E. The discharge direction E is substantially aligned with the cylindrical axis of the cylindrical receiving chamber 26. Since the material storage container 22 and the construction chamber 18 are coupled via pipe 24, materials are supplied to the construction chamber 18 in this manner.

[0206] like Figure 46 and Figure 47 The apparatus 10 shown for additively manufacturing a dental restoration 12 operates according to the principle of stereolithography. This means that the dental restoration 12 is constructed layer by layer by actuating the drive device 32 and moving the walls 30a, 30b to introduce material of one layer of the dental restoration 12 from the material storage container 22 into the construction chamber 18. Simultaneously, the construction platform 16 is moved such that the volume increment resulting from the displacement of one of the walls 30a, 30b corresponds to the volume increment resulting from the displacement of the construction platform 16. The apparatus 10 is a so-called closed system in which the materials M1, M2 used for additively manufacturing the dental restoration 12 are always isolated from the environment, especially ambient air, through the components of the apparatus 10. Due to the closed nature of the system, the construction platform 16 and the walls 30a, 30b are also hydraulically coupled through the materials M1, M2 provided in the construction space 18 and / or the material storage container 22. Due to this configuration, the construction platform 16 can only be supported in a movable manner but does not require its own drive device. The construction platform 16 is then indirectly driven by the drive device 32 and hydraulic coupling.

[0207] The material of the layer is then cured in a position-specific manner using the exposure unit 20. This process is repeated until the dental restoration 12 is completely made of multiple layers.

[0208] In the case where the device 10 has an optional discharge port 34 as described, it may also be necessary to make the construction platform 16 lockable, i.e., specifically to prevent its movement. This prevents the construction platform 16 from moving as material is discharged through the discharge port 34.

[0209] exist Figure 46 In the example shown, as explained, there are a total of two materials (i.e., first material M1 and second material M2) arranged in storage space 26.

[0210] These materials M1 and M2 differ in terms of at least one material property, particularly describing optical, mechanical, and / or chemical properties, including material color and / or translucency.

[0211] In this context, material M1 can, for example, be designed to replicate the incisal edge of a tooth, i.e., by selecting at least one material property describing, in particular, the optical, mechanical, and / or chemical properties of the material, especially its color and / or translucency, such that the incisal edge of a tooth can be replicated. Then, material M2 can be designed to replicate the tooth body, i.e., the crown without the incisal edge. This means selecting at least one material property describing, in particular, the optical, mechanical, and / or chemical properties of the material, especially its color and / or translucency, such that the tooth body can be replicated.

[0212] The filling levels of materials M1 and M2 in segments 26a and 26b of receiving space 26 can be selected such that there is a sufficient quantity of each material M1 and M2 to produce the dental restoration 12. In this case, the typical proportion of the required volumes of materials M1 and M2 can be considered; for example, the volume of material used to replicate the incisal edge of the tooth may be only about 50% of the volume of material used to replicate the body of the tooth.

[0213] Therefore, the apparatus 10 can be used to produce the dental restoration 12 layer by layer using the stereolithography process described above. The segment of the replica tooth incisal edge of the dental restoration 12 can first be produced by processing material M1 (this is done by actuating the movable wall 30a using the drive device 32). Subsequently, the segment of the replica tooth body of the dental restoration 12 can be produced by processing material M2 (this is done by actuating the movable wall 30b using the drive device 32).

[0214] There are two alternatives for driving the movable walls 30a and 30b. In the first alternative, each movable wall 30a and 30b can be driven individually. In the second alternative, a single drive device is used to drive both walls 30a and 30b. In this case, the piston forming the movable wall 30b may be shorter at the end facing away from the receiving space 26 than the piston forming the movable wall 30a. In this case, if the drive device 32 includes a drive piston or pressure plate, the drive device 32 will first move the piston with wall 30a, and only after a period of time, when the segment of the replicated tooth incisal edge of the dental restoration 12 has been produced, will the piston where wall 30b is formed be activated. From this point on, materials M1 and M2 are processed in a mixed form. For this purpose, a mixing mechanism 64 can be provided in the conduit 24.

[0215] The mixing mechanism 64 may have one or more flow barriers for materials M1 and M2, such that flow around one or more flow barriers results in locally different flow velocities for materials M1 and M2. This leads to the mixing of materials M1 and M2.

[0216] In an example with several flow obstacles, these obstacles can be arranged in a regular or irregular grid.

[0217] Therefore, a dental restoration 12 can be produced, with different sections of the dental restoration 12 being produced from different materials M1 and M2 along the construction direction B.

[0218] Reference Symbol List

Claims

1. A material storage container (22) for materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) used in additive manufacturing of dental restorations (12), comprising a receiving space (26) and a supply port (28), the supply port being coupled to the receiving space (26) in a material delivery manner such that materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) can be supplied from the receiving space (26) through the supply port (28) for additive manufacturing of the dental restorations (12). At least a first material (M1) and a second material (M2) that differ in at least one material property are arranged in the receiving space (26), and The first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction (E) of the receiving space (26), and / or the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are arranged consecutively along a direction (Q) perpendicular to the discharge direction (E).

2. The material storage container (22) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one material property describes optical material properties, especially material color and / or translucency, mechanical material properties or chemical material properties.

3. The material storage container (22) according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising an outlet (34) for removing materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) not used in the additive manufacturing of the dental restoration (12).

4. The material storage container (22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are each arranged in the form of separate, visible layers, and / or Multiple materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) that differ in at least one material property are arranged in the receiving space (26). The multiple materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) are arranged sequentially along the discharge direction (E) of the receiving space (26) or perpendicular to the discharge direction of the receiving space, thereby resulting in a visually perceptible continuous progression of the at least one material property.

5. The material storage container (22) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a separation element (52) disposed between the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) to separate the first material (M1) and the second material (M2).

6. The material storage container (22) according to claim 5, wherein the separating element (52) and / or the sidewall defining the receiving space (26) have guide elements (56) for guiding the separating element (52) along the discharge direction (E).

7. The material storage container (22) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the separation element (52) comprises a membrane (54) or a diaphragm or a fixed wall element.

8. The material storage container (22) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, further comprising a perforated element (58) for breaking the separation element (52).

9. A method for filling a material storage container (22) with materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) for use in additively manufactured dental restorations (12), comprising: The first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are introduced into the receiving space (26) of the material storage container (22). Wherein the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) differ in at least one material property, and The first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are arranged consecutively along the discharge direction (E) of the material storage container (22), and / or The first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are arranged consecutively along a direction (Q) perpendicular to the emission direction (E).

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: The viscosity of the materials is reduced before the first material (M1) and / or the second material (M2) are introduced into the receiving space (26).

11. An apparatus (10) for additively manufacturing a dental prosthesis (12), comprising a construction space (18) for additively constructing the dental prosthesis (12) and a material storage container (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the material storage container being coupled to the construction space (18) in a material delivery manner, wherein the apparatus comprises an outlet (34) for removing materials (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6) not used for additively manufacturing the dental prosthesis (12).

12. A method for additive manufacturing of a dental restoration (12), comprising: The first constituent layer of the dental restoration (12) is created using a first material (M1), and the second constituent layer of the dental restoration (12) is subsequently created using a second material (M2). and / or A constituent layer is created using the first material (M1) and the second material (M2). The first material (M1) and the second material (M2) differ in at least one material property, and the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are supplied by means of the material storage container (22).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the at least one material property describes optical material properties, particularly material color and / or translucency, mechanical material properties, or chemical material properties.

14. The method according to claim 12 or claim 13, further comprising: Discard the first material (M1) and / or the second material (M2) that are not used to manufacture the dental restoration (12).

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