A dual print platform continuous light-cured printing system and method

Abstract

The present application belongs to the field of additive manufacturing and photocuring forming technology, and discloses a continuous photocuring printing system and method with double printing platforms, which comprises a printing unit, a forming processing unit and a linear module. The printing unit comprises a first printing platform and a second printing platform, and the first printing platform and the second printing platform are respectively installed on the linear module. The forming processing unit comprises a printing forming unit and a post-processing temporary storage unit. The linear module is used to drive the first printing platform and the second printing platform to switch positions between the printing forming unit and the post-processing temporary storage unit, so that when one of the printing platforms is located in the printing forming unit to perform photocuring printing, the other printing platform is located in the post-processing temporary storage unit to perform post-processing. The present application changes the serial process of stopping and waiting for taking and replacing the platform after the completion of traditional single-platform printing into the process of double-platform alternate printing and parallel post-processing, reduces the non-printing waiting time, and improves the effective operation rate of the equipment and the stability of the production line rhythm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of additive manufacturing and photopolymerization technology, and particularly relates to a continuous photopolymerization printing system and method with dual printing platforms. Background Technology

[0002] Existing pull-out photopolymer printers typically use a single printing platform to complete a single printing task. After printing, the machine needs to wait for manual removal of the printing platform along with the finished part, or for an automated guided vehicle (AGV) / robotic arm to arrive, retrieve the part, and replace the platform before the new printing platform can be clamped and positioned before the next printing can begin. This "print-stop-retrieve-replace-restart" workflow results in a significant amount of time being spent on non-printing processes. This is especially true in production modes where the printing time per part is relatively short and frequent part changes are required. The impact of downtime on overall productivity is more significant, leading to a decrease in effective equipment uptime and a slowdown in production cycle time.

[0003] To shorten part changeover time, existing technologies employ multi-station switching structures, such as rotary multi-station, shuttle slide multi-station, or similar station rotation / transfer mechanisms, separating the printing station from the part retrieval station. However, such solutions typically require additional rotary supports, positioning locks, synchronous transmissions, buffers, and protective structures, along with more complex control and maintenance requirements. Furthermore, multi-station structures often introduce new constraints in terms of equipment footprint, structural height, assembly, debugging, and reliability. For pull-out photopolymerization printing, the printing process demands high standards for platform flatness, positioning repeatability, Z-axis motion stability, and resin tank cleanliness. The coupling of multiple mechanisms may also introduce additional vibrations or positioning errors, affecting molding consistency. In addition, post-printing cleaning and post-curing usually rely on external processes or manual transfer, resulting in process fragmentation, increased manual intervention, and operational inconsistencies, which in turn affect product stability and traceability.

[0004] Therefore, the existing technology has at least the following objective problems: First, after printing, it is necessary to wait for the parts to be picked up and the platform to be changed, resulting in long equipment downtime and the cycle time being constrained by the rhythm of manual or logistics equipment; Second, post-processing such as cleaning and post-curing often requires additional equipment and transfer steps, with more manual intervention and poor stability; Third, some multi-station switching solutions have complex structures and occupy a lot of space, which is not conducive to achieving highly reliable continuous production in a limited space.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a continuous photopolymerization printing system and method with dual printing platforms to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a continuous photopolymerization printing system and method with dual printing platforms to solve the problems existing in the prior art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solution: The present invention provides a continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms, comprising: The printing unit includes a first printing platform and a second printing platform, which are respectively mounted on a linear module. The forming processing unit includes a printing forming unit and a post-processing temporary storage unit. The linear module is used to drive the first printing platform and the second printing platform to switch positions between the printing forming unit and the post-processing temporary storage unit, so that when one printing platform is in the printing forming unit to perform photopolymerization printing, the other printing platform is in the post-processing temporary storage unit to perform the post-processing process.

[0008] Preferably, the post-processing temporary storage unit includes a cleaning module and a post-curing module. The cleaning module is used to clean the printed platform and the molded part, and the post-curing module is used to perform photocuring on the cleaned molded part.

[0009] Preferably, the linear module is arranged in a horizontal direction, and a support base is provided on the linear module. A first Z-axis moving module and a second Z-axis moving module are provided on the support base. The first printing platform and the second printing platform are respectively installed on the first Z-axis moving module and the second Z-axis moving module.

[0010] Preferably, the cleaning module includes a solvent cleaning mechanism or a spray cleaning mechanism, and further includes a draining or drying mechanism.

[0011] Preferably, the post-curing module provides a light source with a preset wavelength and controls the curing time.

[0012] Preferably, the plurality of printing and forming units and the plurality of post-processing temporary storage units are arranged alternately.

[0013] A continuous photopolymerization printing method with dual printing platforms includes the following steps: The first printing task is performed when the first printing platform is located in the printing forming unit; After the first printing task is completed, the linear module is driven to switch the second printing platform to the printing forming unit and start the second printing task. At the same time, the first printing platform is transferred to the post-processing temporary storage unit to perform the post-processing process. After the second printing task is completed, repeat the switching steps described above to achieve continuous production by alternating between the two printing platforms.

[0014] Preferably, the post-processing procedure is configured according to production needs to perform cleaning only, post-curing only, or a combination of cleaning and post-curing in sequence.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and technical effects: This invention provides a continuous photopolymerization printing system and method with dual printing platforms. It transforms the traditional serial process of single-platform printing, which requires stopping the machine after completion to wait for parts retrieval and platform switching, into a process of alternating printing on two platforms and parallel post-processing. After printing on one platform, the equipment can immediately switch to the other platform to begin the next printing cycle without waiting for manual intervention or AGV arrival. This significantly reduces non-printing waiting time, improves equipment uptime, and enhances production line cycle stability. Integrating or configuring post-processing processes such as cleaning and post-curing allows the printed platform to automatically enter a temporary storage area for standardized post-processing, reducing post-printing transfer and manual operation steps. This reduces quality fluctuations caused by human error, thereby improving batch consistency and process controllability of the formed parts. It also facilitates the solidification and traceability of process parameters. Compared to rotary or complex multi-station rotating mechanisms, this invention uses linear modules to achieve switching between the two platforms. The mechanism link is shorter, the motion is more direct, the structure is simpler, the equipment occupies less space, and the assembly, debugging, and maintenance are easier. It is also more suitable for deployment in compact production line environments. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention; The components include: 1. First printing platform; 2. Second printing platform; 3. Printing and forming unit; 4. Post-processing temporary storage unit; 5. Linear module; 6. Support seat; 7. First Z-axis moving module; 8. Second Z-axis moving module. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0020] Reference Figure 1 This invention provides a continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms, comprising: The printing unit includes a first printing platform 1 and a second printing platform 2, which are respectively mounted on the linear module 5; The forming processing unit includes a printing forming unit 3 and a post-processing temporary storage unit 4. The linear module 5 is used to drive the first printing platform 1 and the second printing platform 2 to switch positions between the printing forming unit 3 and the post-processing temporary storage unit 4, so that when one printing platform is in the printing forming unit 3 to perform photopolymerization printing, the other printing platform is in the post-processing temporary storage unit 4 to perform the post-processing process.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the first printing platform 1 is located at the printing station, the system controls the printing forming unit 3 to complete the exposure, peeling, and layer-by-layer pulling forming of the formed part on the first printing platform 1. After the printing task is completed, the linear module 5 drives the platform to switch under the condition of meeting the equipment safety interlock, so that the second printing platform 2 enters the printing station and completes the positioning and locking with the printing forming unit 3, thereby starting the next printing task in a short switching time. At the same time, the first printing platform 1 is moved by the linear module 5 to the post-processing temporary storage area, and at least one post-processing process is performed in this area. The post-processing process can be configured to be optional or automatically executed according to a preset formula according to production needs. After the post-processing is completed, the first printing platform 1 remains in the temporary storage area to wait for manual or AGV to remove the formed part and replace it with a new printing platform or reload the platform assembly. During this period, the system continues to use the second printing platform 2 for printing, thereby removing the time required for part removal, platform replacement, and post-processing from the critical cycle time.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, in order to ensure switching reliability and printing accuracy, the two printing platforms are preferably designed to have standardized positioning references and quick clamping structures, so that the platforms can repeatedly obtain the predetermined planar position and posture when entering the printing station; the system control logic can be set to identify the platform, detect the clamping status and interlock the motion to prevent exposure or movement when not locked or not in a safe position.

[0023] As an optional implementation, the post-processing temporary storage unit 4 includes a cleaning module and a post-curing module. The cleaning module is used to clean the printed platform and the molded part, and the post-curing module is used to perform photocuring treatment on the cleaned molded part.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, in order to improve stability and reduce human error, the cleaning module and the post-curing module are preferably integrated into the same equipment rack or form an integrated module with the printer. The post-processing parameters can be automatically set and recorded by the controller according to the material and process formula, thereby realizing a closed loop of printing and post-processing.

[0025] As an optional implementation, the linear module 5 is arranged in a horizontal direction, and a support 6 is provided on the linear module 5. A first Z-axis moving module 7 and a second Z-axis moving module 8 are provided on the support 6. The first printing platform 1 and the second printing platform 2 are respectively installed on the first Z-axis moving module 7 and the second Z-axis moving module 8.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vertical movement of the printing platform is controlled by a Z-axis movement module.

[0027] As an optional implementation, the cleaning module includes a solvent cleaning mechanism or a spray cleaning mechanism, and also includes a draining or drying mechanism.

[0028] As an optional implementation, the post-curing module provides a light source with a preset wavelength and control over the curing time.

[0029] As an optional implementation, multiple printing and forming units 3 and multiple post-processing temporary storage units 4 are arranged alternately.

[0030] A continuous photopolymerization printing method with dual printing platforms includes the following steps: The first printing task is executed when the first printing platform 1 is located in the printing forming unit 3; After the first printing task is completed, the driving linear module 5 switches the second printing platform 2 to the printing forming unit 3 and starts the second printing task. At the same time, the first printing platform 1 is transferred to the post-processing temporary storage unit 4 to execute the post-processing process. After the second printing task is completed, repeat the switching steps described above to achieve continuous production by alternating between the two printing platforms.

[0031] As an optional implementation, the post-processing procedure can be configured, depending on production needs, to perform cleaning only, post-curing only, or a combination of cleaning and post-curing in sequence.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the post-processing process includes one or more of cleaning, drying / draining, and post-curing, and the post-processing process can be configured to be executed optionally or automatically according to a preset formula, depending on production needs.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, applicable to a pull-up type UV curing printer, the forming processing unit is located in the central area of ​​the equipment frame, with a resin tank and exposure window below it, and a Z-axis moving module and a clamping head for connecting the printing platform above it. The linear module 5 is horizontally positioned, with a support seat 6 on its slider or moving beam for supporting the printing platform assembly. The support seat 6 has a positioning reference surface and locking structure that cooperate with the printing platform, enabling the printing platform to quickly and repeatedly clamp and position itself with the Z-axis moving module after entering the printing station. A post-processing temporary storage unit 4 is provided on one side of the printing area. The post-processing temporary storage unit 4 integrates a cleaning module and a post-curing module. The cleaning module can perform solvent cleaning or spray cleaning on the printed platform and formed parts, and can be configured with a draining or drying mechanism when needed. The post-curing module can provide a preset wavelength light source and curing time control for post-curing and shaping. The controller is connected to the printing control system, coordinating and controlling exposure, Z-axis movement, linear module translation, clamping interlock, and post-processing execution.

[0034] When the system starts working, the first printing platform 1 is installed on the carrier 6 and located at the printing station, while the second printing platform 2 is located in the post-processing temporary storage area in a standby state or has completed post-processing and is waiting to be picked up. The controller first executes the printing task of the first printing platform 1: the exposure system projects layer by layer according to the slice data, and the Z-axis completes the pull-up and peeling actions until the printing is finished. After printing is completed, the controller controls the Z-axis moving module to raise to a safe height and releases the printing station lock of the first printing platform 1. At the same time, it confirms that the post-processing temporary storage area is in a receptive state, and then drives the linear module 5 to move the first printing platform 1 to the post-processing temporary storage area and move the second printing platform 2 to the printing station. After the second printing platform 2 is in place, the controller performs positioning and locking confirmation, and then immediately starts the printing task of the second printing platform 2. Simultaneously, the first printing platform 1 performs cleaning and post-curing according to the preset process in the post-processing temporary storage area; after the post-processing is completed, the first printing platform 1 remains in the temporary storage area waiting for manual or AGV to remove the formed part and replace it with a new printing platform or reload the platform assembly. Since the second printing platform 2 continues printing during this period, the time spent on picking up parts, changing platforms, and post-processing no longer constitutes the critical path that requires the printing equipment to stop and wait, thus achieving continuous production.

[0035] After the second printing platform 2 finishes printing, the system moves it to the post-processing storage area using the same logic, and switches the replaced first printing platform 1 back to the printing station to continue printing. This cycle repeats to achieve continuous photopolymerization printing with alternating platforms. If the user only needs continuous printing and does not require integrated post-curing, the controller can configure the post-processing process to either cleaning only or temporary storage awaiting part retrieval, thus adapting to different production line needs while maintaining continuous switching capability.

[0036] In the above embodiments, the AGV involved is an automated guided vehicle used to automatically transport printing platforms or molded parts in the production line; the pull-up printing is a photopolymerization printing method that forms from bottom to top, and the molded parts rise layer by layer with the Z-axis moving module and leave the resin tank.

[0037] This invention constructs a continuous production chain using a dual-platform + linear switching + temporary post-processing approach. Its core lies in: enabling rapid switching between two platforms at the printing station via a linear module, and automatically transferring completed platforms to the post-processing temporary storage area, thus parallelizing printing, part retrieval / change, and post-processing in time, thereby achieving continuous printing. Without departing from the inventive concept, alternative solutions are also possible: the post-processing flow may only include cleaning or only post-curing, or cleaning and post-curing may be separated into different stations within the same area depending on the production line configuration; part retrieval and platform change can be performed manually, by AGVs, or by robotic arms; the linear module can employ different drive methods such as belts, lead screws, or linear motors. As long as the reciprocating switching between the two platforms between the printing station and the temporary storage area can be achieved and the positioning accuracy and cycle time requirements are met, it should fall within the protection scope of this invention.

[0038] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0039] The embodiments described above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention should fall within the protection scope defined by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms, characterized in that, include: The printing unit includes a first printing platform (1) and a second printing platform (2), which are respectively mounted on the linear module (5); The molding unit includes a printing molding unit (3) and a post-processing temporary storage unit (4). The linear module (5) is used to drive the first printing platform (1) and the second printing platform (2) to switch positions between the printing molding unit (3) and the post-processing temporary storage unit (4), so that when one printing platform is located in the printing molding unit (3) to perform photopolymerization printing, the other printing platform is located in the post-processing temporary storage unit (4) to perform the post-processing process.

2. The continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that: The post-processing temporary storage unit (4) includes a cleaning module and a post-curing module. The cleaning module is used to clean the printed platform and the molded part, and the post-curing module is used to perform photocuring on the cleaned molded part.

3. The continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that: The linear module (5) is arranged in a horizontal direction. A support seat (6) is provided on the linear module (5). A first Z-axis moving module (7) and a second Z-axis moving module (8) are provided on the support seat (6). The first printing platform (1) and the second printing platform (2) are respectively installed on the first Z-axis moving module (7) and the second Z-axis moving module (8).

4. The continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cleaning module includes a solvent cleaning mechanism or a spray cleaning mechanism, and also includes a draining or drying mechanism.

5. A continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms according to claim 2, characterized in that: The post-curing module provides a light source with a preset wavelength and controls the curing time.

6. The continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that: Multiple printing and forming units (3) and multiple post-processing temporary storage units (4) are alternately arranged.

7. A continuous photopolymerization printing method with dual printing platforms, applicable to the continuous photopolymerization printing system with dual printing platforms as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The first printing task is performed when the first printing platform (1) is located in the printing forming unit (3); After the first printing task is completed, the linear module (5) is driven to switch the second printing platform (2) to the printing forming unit (3) and start the second printing task. At the same time, the first printing platform (1) is transferred to the post-processing temporary storage unit (4) to execute the post-processing process. After the second printing task is completed, repeat the switching steps described above to achieve continuous production by alternating between the two printing platforms.

8. The continuous photopolymerization printing method with dual printing platforms according to claim 7, characterized in that: The post-processing procedure is configured according to production needs to perform cleaning only, post-curing only, or a combination of cleaning and post-curing in sequence.

Images