A foldable modular 3D printer

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of folding modular 3D printer, it is related to 3D printer technical field, including rack main body, rack main body is equipped with three-axis transmission module, material extrusion module and hot bed, the three-axis transmission module is used to adjust the relative position relationship between the material extrusion module and the hot bed, the material extruded by the material extrusion module can be accumulated on the hot bed;The rack main body includes rack base, the rack base is equipped with folding column, the bottom of the folding column is equipped with vertical state connecting hole, the side wall of the folding column is equipped with horizontal state connecting hole, the vertical state connecting hole is connected with the horizontal state connecting hole by state adjustment channel, the vertical state connecting hole or the horizontal state connecting hole can be connected with the rack base by quick release connector.The rack main body can be folded in the application, so as to reduce its overall volume, be convenient for storage and handling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of 3D printer technology, and in particular to a foldable modular 3D printer. Background Technology

[0002] Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology is currently the most widely used technology in the desktop 3D printing field due to its advantages such as low equipment cost, simple operation, and rich material variety. Its basic principle is to feed filamentary thermoplastic material (such as PLA, ABS, etc.) into a heated nozzle through a feeding mechanism. After the material is heated to a molten state in the nozzle, it is extruded through the nozzle and deposited layer by layer according to the path controlled by the layer data of the CAD model, finally forming a three-dimensional solid.

[0003] However, with the continuous expansion of 3D printing applications, existing desktop FDM 3D printers have gradually exposed the following technical problems: Large in size and inconvenient to carry. Traditional desktop 3D printers typically use a fixed frame structure, consisting of a base, vertical columns, and crossbeams forming a rigid frame, with the components fixed together by bolts or welding. While this design provides a stable printing platform, the overall size of the machine is large (usually no less than 400mm × 400mm × 450mm) and heavy (usually 10-20kg), making it inconvenient to carry and move, and difficult to meet the needs of mobile scenarios such as outdoor printing, classroom teaching, and exhibition demonstrations.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a foldable modular 3D printer to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a foldable modular 3D printer to solve the problems existing in the prior art, which can be folded to facilitate storage and transportation.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solution: This invention discloses a foldable modular 3D printer, including a frame body, on which a three-axis drive module, a material extrusion module and a heated bed are provided. The three-axis drive module is used to adjust the relative positional relationship between the material extrusion module and the heated bed, and the material extruded by the material extrusion module can be deposited on the heated bed. The main body of the frame includes a frame base, on which a folding column is provided. The bottom of the folding column is provided with a vertical connection hole, and the side wall of the folding column is provided with a horizontal connection hole. The vertical connection hole and the horizontal connection hole are connected through a state adjustment channel. Both the vertical connection hole and the horizontal connection hole can be connected to the frame base through a quick-release connector.

[0007] Preferably, the quick-release connector is a quick-release rod.

[0008] Preferably, the three-axis transmission module includes an X-axis linear drive device, a Y-axis linear drive device, and a Z-axis linear drive device. The X-axis linear drive device is disposed between the two folding columns, and the material extrusion module is mounted on the moving end of the X-axis linear drive device. The Z-axis linear drive device is fixed to the folding columns, and both ends of the X-axis linear drive device are respectively disposed on the moving ends of the two Z-axis linear drive devices. The Y-axis linear drive device is fixed to the frame base, and the heated bed is mounted on the moving end of the Y-axis linear drive device.

[0009] Preferably, the X-axis linear drive device includes an X-axis transmission belt, with an X-axis transmission wheel connected to each end of the X-axis transmission belt. One of the X-axis transmission wheels is connected to the output shaft of the X-axis drive motor. A moving module is fixed on the X-axis transmission belt, and the material extrusion module is mounted on the moving module.

[0010] Preferably, the Y-axis linear drive device includes a Y-axis transmission belt, with a Y-axis transmission wheel connected to each end of the Y-axis transmission belt. One of the Y-axis transmission wheels is connected to the output shaft of the Y-axis drive motor. A Y-axis intermediate plate is fixed on the Y-axis transmission belt. The heated bed is installed on the upper surface of the Y-axis intermediate plate. A vibration damping device is provided between the heated bed and the Y-axis intermediate plate.

[0011] Preferably, the Z-axis linear drive device includes a Z-axis guide rail, which is fixed to the folding column. A Z-axis drive motor is also fixed to the folding column. The output shaft of the Z-axis drive motor is connected to a Z-axis transmission screw. A Z-axis transmission flange is threaded onto the Z-axis transmission screw. A Z-axis moving flange is connected to the Z-axis transmission flange. The Z-axis moving flange is fixedly connected to a Z-axis slider. The Z-axis slider is slidably connected to the Z-axis guide rail. The Z-axis moving flange is slidably connected to the folding column. The Z-axis moving flange is connected to the end of the X-axis linear drive device.

[0012] Preferably, the material extrusion module includes a BMG filament extruder and a single-screw powder extruder.

[0013] Preferably, the BMG filament extruder includes a BMG die head, the power input end of the BMG die head is connected to the power output shaft of the BMG drive motor, the output port of the BMG die head is connected to a BMG heat dissipation pipe, the end of the BMG heat dissipation pipe away from the BMG die head is connected to a BMG throat, the end of the BMG throat away from the BMG heat dissipation pipe is connected to a BMG heating block, and a BMG extrusion nozzle is fixed on the BMG heating block.

[0014] Preferably, the single-screw powder extruder includes a screw feed hopper, a screw drive motor is provided at the upper end of the screw feed hopper, the output shaft of the screw drive motor is connected to a conveying screw, a feeding hopper is provided at the lower end of the screw feed hopper, a screw heat sink is connected at the lower end of the feeding hopper, a Teflon tube is connected to the screw heat sink, and a screw heating block is connected to the end of the Teflon tube away from the screw heat sink, and a screw nozzle is provided on the screw heating block.

[0015] Preferably, the material extrusion module is provided with a passive connector, and the moving module is provided with an active connector. When the passive connector on the material extrusion module and the active connector on the moving module come into contact, the passive connector and the active connector are fixedly connected.

[0016] The present invention achieves the following technical effects compared to the prior art: The folding column in this invention features a folding function. When the column is in a vertical position, the quick-release connector connects to the vertical connection hole. When the column is folded to a horizontal position, the quick-release connector moves along the adjustment channel to the horizontal connection hole and connects, thus fixing the column in a horizontal position. This reduces the size of the frame body by approximately 70% in the folded state (from approximately 400mm × 400mm × 450mm in the unfolded state to 400mm × 350mm × 120mm), making it easier to carry and store, and expanding the application of 3D printing technology in outdoor teaching, mobile production, and other scenarios. Attached Figure Description

[0017] 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.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable modular 3D printer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2This is a side sectional view of a foldable modular 3D printer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the X-axis linear drive device in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention. Figure 4 This is a structural connection diagram of the X-axis belt fastener in a foldable modular 3D printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a side view of the Y-axis linear drive device in a foldable modular 3D printer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a top view of the Y-axis linear drive device in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention after the Y-axis intermediate plate has been removed. Figure 7 This is a partially enlarged view of the Z-axis linear drive device in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the BMG filament extruder in a foldable modular 3D printer according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the BMG filament extruder in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the single-screw powder extruder in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention. Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the single-screw powder extruder in the foldable modular 3D printer of this invention. In the diagram: 1 - heated bed; 2-Rack base; 201-Base top cover; 202-Support frame; 3-Folding column; 301-Horizontal connection hole; 302-State adjustment channel; 303-Column aluminum profile; 304-Column fixing component; 4- Quick-release connectors; 5 - X-axis linear drive unit; 501 - X-axis transmission belt; 502 - X-axis transmission wheel; 503 - X-axis drive motor; 504 - X-axis belt fastener; 505 - Front cover plate of the moving module; 506 - Rear cover plate of the moving module; 507 - X-axis moving guide rod; 508 - X-axis moving slider; 6 - Y-axis linear drive unit; 601 - Y-axis transmission belt; 602 - Y-axis transmission wheel; 603 - Y-axis drive motor; 604 - Y-axis intermediate plate; 605 - Vibration damping device; 606 - Y-axis motor mounting base; 607 - Y-axis aluminum profile frame; 608 - Aluminum profile fixing bracket; 609 - Y-axis moving guide rod; 610 - Y-axis guide rod fixing base; 611 - Y-axis moving slider; 612 - Y-axis belt fastener; 7-Z-axis linear drive unit; 701-Z-axis guide rail; 702-Z-axis drive motor; 703-Z-axis transmission screw; 704-Z-axis transmission flange; 705-Z-axis slider; 706-Z-axis moving flange; 707-Z-axis coupling; 708-Z-axis motor mounting base; 8-BMG filament extruder; 801-BMG die head; 802-BMG drive motor; 803-BMG heat sink; 804-BMG throat; 805-BMG heating block; 806-BMG extrusion nozzle; 9-Single screw powder extruder; 901-Screw feed hopper; 902-Screw drive motor; 903-Conveying screw; 904-Feeding hopper; 905-Screw heat sink; 906-Teflon tube; 907-Screw heating block; 908-Screw nozzle; 909-Screw coupling; 10-Passive connector. Detailed Implementation

[0019] 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.

[0020] The purpose of this invention is to provide a foldable modular 3D printer to solve the problems existing in the prior art, which can be folded to facilitate storage and transportation.

[0021] 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.

[0022] like Figures 1-11 As shown, this embodiment provides a foldable modular 3D printer, including a frame body. The frame body is provided with a three-axis drive module, a material extrusion module and a heated bed 1. The three-axis drive module is used to adjust the relative positional relationship between the material extrusion module and the heated bed 1. The material extrusion module is located above the heated bed 1, so that the material extruded by the material extrusion module can be deposited on the heated bed 1.

[0023] The main frame includes a frame base 2, which is a rectangular shell. Two folding columns 3 are mounted on the base of the frame base 2. Each folding column 3 includes an aluminum profile 303 and a column fixing component 304. The lower end of the aluminum profile 303 is bolted to the upper end of the fixing component 304. The bottom of the folding column 3 (the fixing component 304) has a vertical connection hole, and the side wall of the folding column 3 (the fixing component 304) has a horizontal connection hole 301. The vertical and horizontal connection holes 301 are connected by a state adjustment channel 302. Both the vertical and horizontal connection holes 301 can be connected to the frame base 2 via a quick-release connector 4, meaning the quick-release connector 4 can reciprocate between the vertical and horizontal connection holes 301 via the state adjustment channel 302.

[0024] In practical use, when the folding column 3 needs to be in a vertical position, the upper end of the quick-release connector 4 extends into the vertical connection hole, thus securing the vertical connection hole to the rack base 2. When the rack body needs to be folded, first release the quick-release connector 4, then rotate the folding column 3 from a vertical to a horizontal position, bringing it into contact with the upper surface of the rack base 2. During this process, the upper end of the quick-release connector 4 also enters the horizontal connection hole 301 from the vertical connection hole along the adjustment channel 302. Then, lock the quick-release connector 4 again to secure the horizontal connection hole 301 to the rack base 2. This significantly reduces the overall volume of the rack body, making it easier to store and transport.

[0025] In this embodiment, as Figures 1-2 As shown, quick-release connector 4 is a quick-release lever, a common fastener on bicycles, such as a quick-release lever for the front wheel axle or seatpost. Existing quick-release levers include a pressing handle, one end of which is rotatably connected to one end of a quick-release connecting shaft. The other end of the quick-release connecting shaft is threaded with a clamping nut. A clamping pad is also fitted onto the quick-release connecting shaft, and the clamping pad has an arc-shaped groove that matches the end of the pressing handle. Two buffer pads or two buffer springs can be placed between the clamping pad and the clamping nut. In use, the object to be clamped is placed between the two buffer pads, and then the clamping nut is tightened until the self-rotation flexibility of the pressing handle is poor (during this process, the length direction of the pressing handle is collinear with the axial direction of the quick-release connecting shaft). The pressing handle is then moved so that it is perpendicular to the axis of the quick-release connecting shaft, thus clamping the object to be clamped.

[0026] In this embodiment, the frame base 2 is a rectangular shell. The upper surface of the frame base 2 is a base cover plate 201. Two support frames 202 are also provided inside the frame base 2. The upper end of each quick-release lever (middle quick-release connecting shaft) passes sequentially through the upper end of the support frame 202, the base cover plate 201, and the vertical connection hole (or horizontal connection hole 301) before connecting to a clamping nut. The diameter of the clamping nut is larger than the inner diameter of the vertical and horizontal connection holes 301 to prevent them from disengaging. The pressing handle is located at the lower end of the quick-release lever, making it easy to operate.

[0027] When the printer needs to be fixed for printing, simply tighten the clamping nut and then turn the press wrench to make it perpendicular to the quick-release connecting shaft. At this time, the clamping nut of the quick-release lever and the adjacent buffer pad generate downward stress, pressing against the vertical connecting hole on the column fixing part 304. The clamping pad and the adjacent buffer pad generate upward stress, pressing against the support frame 202. Under the pressing action of the two buffer pads, the folding column 3 is fixed to the frame base 2.

[0028] When the printer needs to be folded for storage, disassemble the material extrusion module and then control the X-axis linear drive device 5 to rise to its highest point. Move the quick-release lever's pressing handle back to a position parallel to the axis of the quick-release connecting shaft. At this point, loosen the clamping nut to reduce the pressure between the two buffer pads. Next, tilt the folding column 3 forward at a 90° angle. The quick-release connecting shaft of the quick-release lever then enters the horizontal connecting hole 301 from the vertical connecting hole through the state adjustment channel 302. When the side of the folding column 3 is flush against the base cover plate 201, tighten the quick-release lever again, i.e., first tighten the clamping nut, and then move the pressing handle to a position perpendicular to the quick-release connecting shaft. This completes the folding and storage process.

[0029] In this embodiment, as Figures 3-4 As shown, the three-axis transmission module includes an X-axis linear drive device 5, a Y-axis linear drive device 6, and a Z-axis linear drive device 7. The X-axis linear drive device 5 is positioned between two folding columns 3, and the material extrusion module is mounted on the moving end of the X-axis linear drive device 5. The X-axis linear drive device 5 can drive the material extrusion module to move along the X-axis direction. The Z-axis linear drive device 7 is fixed to the folding columns 3, and both ends of the X-axis linear drive device 5 are respectively positioned on the moving ends of the two Z-axis linear drive devices 7, enabling the Z-axis linear drive device 7 to drive the X-axis linear drive device 5 and the material extrusion module to move linearly in the Z-axis direction. The Y-axis linear drive device 6 is fixed to the frame base 2, and the heated bed 1 is mounted on the moving end of the Y-axis linear drive device 6. The Y-axis linear drive device 6 can drive the heated bed 1 to move linearly in the Y-axis direction.

[0030] Thus, the material extrusion module, driven by the X-axis linear drive device 5 and the Z-axis linear drive device 7, can move in two dimensions along the X and Z axes, while the heated bed 1, driven by the Y-axis linear drive device 6, can move linearly along the Y axis. This allows for relative movement between the material extrusion module and the heated zone in three dimensions. Of course, those skilled in the art can adjust the specific distribution of the X-axis linear drive device 5, the Y-axis linear drive device 6, and the Z-axis linear drive device 7 as needed, and are not limited to this single distribution method, as long as it ensures that the material extrusion module and the heated zone can move relative to each other in three dimensions.

[0031] In this embodiment, as Figures 3-4 As shown, the X-axis linear drive device 5 includes an X-axis drive belt 501, with an X-axis drive wheel 502 connected to each end of the X-axis drive belt 501. One of the X-axis drive wheels 502 is connected to the output shaft of the X-axis drive motor 503, and the X-axis drive wheel 502 connected to the X-axis drive motor 503 is the driving wheel, while the other is the driven wheel. The X-axis drive motor 503 is fixed to a Z-axis moving flange 706, and the X-axis drive wheel 502, as the driven wheel, is rotatably connected to the other Z-axis moving flange 706. The two Z-axis moving flanges 706 are vertically slidably connected to two folding columns 3 (the column aluminum profiles 303). A moving module is fixed on the X-axis drive belt 501. Specifically, an X-axis belt fixing member 504 is fixed to the X-axis drive belt 501. The X-axis belt fixing member 504 has a belt clamp, and the X-axis drive belt 501 is clamped in the belt clamp. The moving module is fixedly connected to the X-axis belt fixing member 504. The moving module includes a front cover plate 505 and a rear cover plate 506, which are fixedly connected by bolts. The material extrusion module is installed on the front cover plate 505 of the moving module. In actual use, only the X-axis drive motor 503 needs to be started to drive the moving module to reciprocate linearly along the X-axis direction.

[0032] Furthermore, to ensure the moving module can move linearly, two upper and lower X-axis moving guide rods 507 are fixed between the two Z-axis moving flanges 706. Each X-axis moving guide rod 507 is slidably connected to an X-axis moving slider 508, and the two X-axis moving sliders 508 are fixed to the upper and lower sides of the moving module, respectively. When the X-axis drive motor 503 drives the moving module to move via the X-axis transmission belt 501, the moving module performs reciprocating linear movement in the X-axis direction under the guidance of the X-axis moving sliders 508 and the X-axis moving guide rods 507.

[0033] In this embodiment, as Figures 5-6As shown, the Y-axis linear drive device 6 includes a Y-axis drive belt 601, with a Y-axis drive pulley 602 connected to each end of the belt. One pulley is connected to the output shaft of the Y-axis drive motor 603, serving as the driving pulley and the other as the driven pulley. The Y-axis drive motor 603 is fixed to the frame base 2 via a Y-axis motor mounting bracket 606, which is L-shaped. A Y-axis intermediate plate 604 is fixed to the Y-axis drive belt 601. Specific fixing methods include, but are not limited to, fixing a Y-axis belt fastener 612 to the lower surface of the intermediate plate 604 with bolts. The belt fastener 612 has belt slots for clamping the Y-axis drive belt 601, thus achieving a fixed connection between the intermediate plate 604 and the belt 601. The heated bed 1 is mounted on the upper surface of the Y-axis intermediate plate 604. It should be noted that four vibration damping devices 605 are provided between the heated bed 1 and the Y-axis intermediate plate 604. These devices include, but are not limited to, common shock-absorbing springs or shock absorbers. The purpose of these devices is to dampen vibrations and level the heated bed 1. In actual use, simply starting the Y-axis drive motor 603 drives the Y-axis transmission belt 601, which in turn drives the Y-axis intermediate plate 604 and the heated bed 1 to move along the Y-axis.

[0034] In addition, the Y-axis linear drive device 6 also includes four Y-axis frame aluminum profiles 607, which form a rectangular space. Adjacent Y-axis frame aluminum profiles 607 are fixedly connected by aluminum profile fixing brackets 608 and bolts.

[0035] To ensure that the heated bed 1 can move linearly along the Y-axis, a Y-axis moving guide rod 609 is provided on each side of the Y-axis drive belt 601. Each Y-axis moving guide rod 609 is fixed at both ends to the Y-axis frame aluminum profile 607 via a Y-axis guide rod fixing seat 610. A Y-axis moving slider 611 is slidably connected to the Y-axis moving guide rod 609, and the two Y-axis moving sliders 611 are fixed to both sides of the Y-axis intermediate plate 604. Thus, when the Y-axis drive belt 601 drives the Y-axis intermediate plate 604 to move, the Y-axis intermediate plate 604 reciprocates linearly along the Y-axis direction under the sliding cooperation of the Y-axis moving sliders 611 and the Y-axis moving guide rods 609.

[0036] In this embodiment, as Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, the Z-axis linear drive device 7 includes a Z-axis guide rail 701, which is fixed to the folding column 3 by screws. A Z-axis drive motor 702 is also fixed to the folding column 3 via a Z-axis motor mounting base 708, which is bolted to the folding column 3. The output shaft of the Z-axis drive motor 702 is connected to a Z-axis transmission screw 703 via a Z-axis coupling 707. A Z-axis transmission flange 704 is threaded onto the Z-axis transmission screw 703. A Z-axis moving flange 706 is also fixedly connected to the Z-axis transmission flange 704, and is also fixedly connected to a Z-axis slider 705. A sliding channel is provided between the Z-axis moving flange 706 and the Z-axis slider 705, and both the Z-axis guide rail 701 and the folding column 3 can pass through the sliding channel and are slidably connected to it. Specifically, the Z-axis slider 705 is slidably connected to the Z-axis guide rail 701, and the Z-axis moving flange 706 is slidably connected to the folding column 3. Furthermore, the two Z-axis moving flanges 706 are respectively connected to both ends of the X-axis linear drive device 5.

[0037] When the Z-axis drive motor 702 is started, it drives the Z-axis transmission screw 703 to rotate. Since the Z-axis transmission screw 703 is threadedly connected to the Z-axis transmission flange 704, and the Z-axis slider 705, which is fixedly connected to the Z-axis transmission flange 704, is slidably connected to the Z-axis guide rail 701, the rotation of the Z-axis transmission screw 703 drives the Z-axis transmission flange 704 to move up and down along the axis of the Z-axis transmission screw 703. Then, the Z-axis transmission flange 704 drives the Z-axis moving flange 706 to move up and down along the aluminum profile 303 of the folding column 3.

[0038] In this embodiment, the material extrusion module adopts a dual-material extrusion system design. Specifically, the material extrusion module includes a BMG filament extruder 8 and a single-screw powder extruder 9. The combined design of the BMG filament extruder 8 and the single-screw powder extruder 9 enables the same equipment to print both filament and powder materials. Users can select filaments such as PLA and ABS, or powder materials such as metal powder and ceramic powder, according to their printing needs, thus expanding the material applicability and processing capabilities of the 3D printer.

[0039] In this embodiment, as Figures 8-9As shown, the BMG filament extruder 8 includes a BMG die head 801, which is a conventional BMG dual-gear filament extruder head. Internally, it has two meshing feeding gears that rotate relative to each other, clamping the filament from both sides and conveying it downwards through friction. The power input end of the BMG die head 801 is connected to the power output shaft of the BMG drive motor 802, and the output port of the BMG die head 801 is connected to a BMG heat sink 803. The BMG heat sink 803 is a heat-dissipating aluminum fin with a central through-hole. The function of the BMG heat sink 803 is to prevent heat from the BMG heating block 805 from being transferred upwards, thus preventing the filament from melting before entering the BMG heating block 805. The end of the BMG heat pipe 803 away from the BMG head 801 is connected to the BMG throat 804. The end of the BMG throat 804 away from the BMG heat pipe 803 is connected to the BMG heating block 805. The BMG heating block 805 is fixed with a BMG extrusion nozzle 806. The BMG heating block 805 and the BMG extrusion nozzle 806 are common heating nozzles in existing 3D printers, used to melt and extrude the filament.

[0040] In actual use, the filament is fed into the upper inlet of the BMG head 801, and then enters the heating nozzle composed of the BMG heating block 805 and the BMG extrusion nozzle 806 after passing through the BMG heat dissipation pipe 803 and the BMG throat pipe 804. It is then melted and sprayed out in the heating nozzle.

[0041] In this embodiment, as Figures 10-11 As shown, the single-screw powder extruder 9 includes a screw feed hopper 901. A screw drive motor 902 is located at the upper end of the screw feed hopper 901. The output shaft of the screw drive motor 902 is connected to a conveying screw 903 via a screw coupling 909. The conveying screw 903 can extend into the screw feed hopper 901 and convey powder downwards. A feeding hopper 904 is located at the lower end of the screw feed hopper 901. A screw heat sink 905 is connected to the lower end of the feeding hopper 904. A Teflon tube 906 is connected to the screw heat sink 905. A screw heating block 907 is connected to the end of the Teflon tube 906 away from the screw heat sink 905. A screw nozzle 908 is provided on the screw heating block 907. The screw heating block 907 and the screw nozzle 908 are conventional heating nozzles.

[0042] In actual use, the user puts the powder into the screw feed hopper 901, then starts the screw drive motor 902. The conveying screw 903 will then convey the powder in the screw feed hopper 901 downwards. The powder will pass through the feeding hopper 904, the screw heat sink 905 and the Teflon tube 906 in sequence and then be conveyed to the heating nozzle composed of the screw heating block 907 and the screw nozzle 908, where it will melt and be sprayed out.

[0043] In this embodiment, the material extrusion module is provided with a passive connector 10, and the moving module is provided with an active connector. When the passive connector 10 on the material extrusion module and the active connector on the moving module come into contact, the passive connector 10 is fixedly connected to the active connector, thereby realizing the quick assembly and disassembly of the material extrusion module.

[0044] Specifically, the active connector can be an existing DC electromagnet with a rated voltage of 24V and an adsorption force of not less than 60kg, and the electromagnet is connected to a power supply. The passive connector 10 can be a common iron plate, which can be fixed to the BMG filament extruder 8 and the single-screw powder extruder 9 by bolts. When the electromagnet is energized, it can achieve an adsorption effect with the iron plate, thus realizing tool-free quick installation and replacement of functional modules. The installation process takes no more than 10 seconds, solving the problems of cumbersome operation or insufficient connection rigidity in existing modular solutions. Of course, in addition to this, those skilled in the art can also replace the active connector with a permanent magnet, or even replace the active connector with a vacuum suction cup. The vacuum suction cup is connected to a negative pressure pump through a negative pressure pipe, and the negative pressure of the vacuum suction cup is used to adsorb the passive connector 10.

[0045] Furthermore, a positioning groove can be provided on the moving module; alternatively, an additional frame can be added to the moving module, with a positioning groove provided on the frame. The passive connector 10 can be slidably connected in the positioning groove. When installing the material extrusion module, the passive connector 10 on the material extrusion module is first inserted into one side of the positioning groove, and then the material extrusion module is pushed to slide along the positioning groove until the position of the passive connector 10 (i.e., the iron plate) on the material extrusion module is aligned with the position of the electromagnet on the moving module. At this point, the electromagnet firmly attracts the iron plate, thereby fixing the material extrusion module.

[0046] Example 2 This embodiment provides a folding method for a foldable modular 3D printer, including the following steps: Step S1: Release the quick-release levers. Move the pressing handles of all quick-release levers to the vertical position in sequence (i.e., the pressing handles are collinear with the axis of the quick-release connecting shaft).

[0047] Step S2: Rotate the quick-release lever and loosen the clamping nut. Rotate the quick-release lever's pressing handle clockwise until the clamping nut is moved to the loosened position.

[0048] Step S3: Fold the folding column 3. Slowly fold the folding column 3 toward the rack base 2 until the folding column 3 is in contact with the rack base 2.

[0049] Step S4: Rotate the quick-release lever and secure the clamping nut. Rotate the quick-release lever counterclockwise until the clamping nut is moved to the fixed position.

[0050] Step S5: Lock the quick-release levers. Move the push handles of all quick-release levers to the horizontal position in sequence (i.e., the push handles are perpendicular to the axis of the quick-release connecting shaft).

[0051] Example 3 This embodiment provides a method for installing a material extrusion module in a foldable modular 3D printer, including the following steps: Step S1: Align the positioning groove. Align the passive connector 10 of the material extrusion module with the positioning groove on the moving module.

[0052] Step S2: Push in the material extrusion module. Push the material extrusion module in along the direction of the positioning groove so that the passive connector 10 is in contact with the electromagnet.

[0053] Step S3: Electric Adsorption. Electricity is applied to the electromagnet, causing it to generate an adsorption force of no less than 60 kg, firmly fixing the material extrusion module in place.

[0054] Step S4: Power off and disassemble. When it is necessary to replace the material extrusion module, disconnect the power supply to the electromagnet. After the magnetic field disappears, remove the material extrusion module in the opposite direction.

[0055] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "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 do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Thus, a feature defined with "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0056] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0057] If this invention discloses or relates to components or structural parts that are fixedly connected to each other, then, unless otherwise stated, a fixed connection can be understood as: a detachable fixed connection (e.g., using bolts or screws) or a non-detachable fixed connection (e.g., riveting, welding). Of course, a fixed connection can also be replaced by an integral structure (e.g., manufactured in one piece using a casting process) (except where it is obviously impossible to use an integral molding process).

[0058] In addition, unless otherwise stated, the terms used in any of the technical solutions disclosed in this invention to indicate positional relationships or shapes include states or shapes that are similar to, close to, or approximate with those states or shapes.

[0059] Any component provided by this invention can be assembled from multiple individual components or can be a single component manufactured by a one-piece molding process.

[0060] It should be noted that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., depicted in the accompanying drawings of this specification are only used to complement the content disclosed in the specification, so as to enable those skilled in the art to understand and read them, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and objectives that the present invention can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in the present invention.

[0061] It should also be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same component or the same part.

[0062] Any adaptive changes made according to actual needs are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0063] Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the ideas of this invention, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

Claims

1. A foldable modular 3D printer, comprising a frame body, wherein a three-axis drive module, a material extrusion module and a heated bed (1) are provided on the frame body, the three-axis drive module is used to adjust the relative positional relationship between the material extrusion module and the heated bed (1), and the material extruded by the material extrusion module can be deposited on the heated bed (1); Its features are: The main body of the frame includes a frame base (2), and a folding column (3) is provided on the frame base (2). The bottom of the folding column (3) is provided with a vertical state connection hole, and the side wall of the folding column (3) is provided with a horizontal state connection hole (301). The vertical state connection hole and the horizontal state connection hole (301) are connected through a state adjustment channel (302). Both the vertical state connection hole and the horizontal state connection hole (301) can be connected to the frame base (2) through a quick-release connector (4).

2. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The quick-release connector (4) is a quick-release rod.

3. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The three-axis transmission module includes an X-axis linear drive device (5), a Y-axis linear drive device (6), and a Z-axis linear drive device (7). The X-axis linear drive device (5) is located between the two folding columns (3). The material extrusion module is installed on the moving end of the X-axis linear drive device (5). The Z-axis linear drive device (7) is fixed on the folding column (3). The two ends of the X-axis linear drive device (5) are respectively located on the moving ends of the two Z-axis linear drive devices (7). The Y-axis linear drive device (6) is fixed on the frame base (2). The heated bed (1) is installed on the moving end of the Y-axis linear drive device (6).

4. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The X-axis linear drive device (5) includes an X-axis transmission belt (501), with an X-axis transmission wheel (502) connected to each end of the X-axis transmission belt (501). One of the X-axis transmission wheels (502) is connected to the output shaft of the X-axis drive motor (503). A moving module is fixed on the X-axis transmission belt (501), and the material extrusion module is installed on the moving module.

5. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The Y-axis linear drive device (6) includes a Y-axis transmission belt (601), and a Y-axis transmission wheel (602) is connected to each end of the Y-axis transmission belt (601). One of the Y-axis transmission wheels (602) is connected to the output shaft of the Y-axis drive motor (603). A Y-axis intermediate plate (604) is fixed on the Y-axis transmission belt (601). The heated bed (1) is installed on the upper surface of the Y-axis intermediate plate (604). A vibration damping device (605) is provided between the heated bed (1) and the Y-axis intermediate plate (604).

6. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The Z-axis linear drive device (7) includes a Z-axis guide rail (701), which is fixed on the folding column (3). A Z-axis drive motor (702) is also fixed on the folding column (3). The output shaft of the Z-axis drive motor (702) is connected to a Z-axis transmission screw (703). A Z-axis transmission flange (704) is threaded onto the Z-axis transmission screw (703). A Z-axis moving flange (706) is connected to the Z-axis transmission flange (704). The Z-axis moving flange (706) is fixedly connected to a Z-axis slider (705). The Z-axis slider (705) is slidably connected to the Z-axis guide rail (701). The Z-axis moving flange (706) is slidably connected to the folding column (3). The Z-axis moving flange (706) is connected to the end of the X-axis linear drive device (5).

7. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The material extrusion module includes a BMG filament extruder (8) and a single-screw powder extruder (9).

8. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 7, characterized in that: The BMG filament extruder includes a BMG die head (801), the power input end of which is connected to the power output shaft of a BMG drive motor (802), the output port of which is connected to a BMG heat sink (803), the end of which is away from the BMG die head (801) is connected to a BMG throat (804), the end of which is away from the BMG heat sink (804) is connected to a BMG heating block (805), and a BMG extrusion nozzle (806) is fixed on the BMG heating block (805).

9. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 7, characterized in that: The single-screw powder extruder (9) includes a screw feed hopper (901), a screw drive motor (902) is provided at the upper end of the screw feed hopper (901), the output shaft of the screw drive motor (902) is connected to a conveying screw (903), a feeding hopper (904) is provided at the lower end of the screw feed hopper (901), a screw heat sink (905) is connected at the lower end of the feeding hopper (904), a Teflon tube (906) is connected to the screw heat sink (905), a screw heating block (907) is connected to the end of the Teflon tube (906) away from the screw heat sink (905), and a screw nozzle (908) is provided on the screw heating block (907).

10. The foldable modular 3D printer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The material extrusion module is provided with a passive connector (10), and the moving module is provided with an active connector. When the passive connector (10) on the material extrusion module and the active connector on the moving module come into contact, the passive connector (10) is fixedly connected to the active connector.

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