Powder spreading device and additive manufacturing equipment with same

Abstract

The utility model provides a powder spreading device and additive manufacturing equipment with the powder spreading device. The powder spreading device (1) comprises: a powder spreading unit (11) configured to movably apply a powder material layer by layer on a construction platform (2) to form a powder layer to be irradiated; a vibration unit (12) which is configured in the axial extension direction of the powder spreading unit (11) and transmits vibration to the powder spreading unit (11); by optimizing the layout of the vibration unit (12), the powder laying quality is improved, meanwhile, the powder laying unit (11) is made to be light, the structure of the forming bin is more compact, the height limitation of equipment is reduced, and the shock absorption capacity of the equipment is enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of additive manufacturing technology, and in particular to a powder spreading device and additive manufacturing equipment equipped with the powder spreading device. Background Technology

[0002] In existing powder bed additive manufacturing equipment, in order to avoid powder particle accumulation or uneven distribution, a vibration unit is usually integrated into the powder spreading unit to make the powder fluidized to a certain extent during the spreading process.

[0003] However, in the prior art, the vibration unit usually adopts an upper-mounted structure, that is, the vibration source is placed above the powder spreading unit, and the powder spreading process is affected by vertical vibration. This structure has the following drawbacks:

[0004] Since the vibration unit is installed above the powder spreading unit, an additional support structure is required to support the vibration unit, which increases the overall size and weight of the device and is not conducive to high-speed and stable powder spreading operation. The vibration direction of the top-mounted vibration unit is mainly vertical, while the powder spreading requires horizontal movement. Therefore, the energy of vertical vibration will be lost during the transmission process and cannot be fully utilized in the powder spreading process. Since the top-mounted vibration unit occupies the space above the powder spreading unit, it restricts the arrangement of other functional modules, such as real-time monitoring sensors or powder replenishment mechanisms. Utility Model Content

[0005] To optimize the overall structure and performance of the powder spreading unit, this application provides a powder spreading apparatus for additive manufacturing equipment, comprising: a powder spreading unit configured to movably apply powder material layer by layer onto a build platform to form a powder layer to be irradiated; and a vibration unit constructed in the axial extension direction of the powder spreading unit and transmitting vibration to the powder spreading unit.

[0006] Preferably, the powder spreading unit is a scraper; the scraper includes at least one blade body in contact with the powder and a cantilever for fixing the blade body; wherein the vibration unit is configured to be connected to the cantilever.

[0007] Preferably, the powder spreading unit is constructed on one side of the wall panel of the additive manufacturing equipment, and the vibration unit is constructed on the other side of the wall panel.

[0008] Preferably, the wall panel has a through groove for connecting the powder spreading unit and the vibration unit, and at least a portion of the vibration unit passes through the through groove and is connected to the powder spreading unit.

[0009] Preferably, the length of the through groove at least covers the movement trajectory of the powder spreading unit so that the vibration unit moves synchronously with the powder spreading unit.

[0010] Preferably, the vibration unit includes a connecting member connected to the powder spreading unit and configured to transmit vibration to the powder spreading unit.

[0011] Preferably, the connecting component can be fixedly connected to or in contact with the powder spreading unit.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting component is configured as a connecting frame, from which one or more connecting rods extend to the powder spreading unit to form one or more vibration excitation points on the powder spreading unit.

[0013] Preferably, the first connecting end of the connecting rod is larger than the second connecting end to balance the amplitude of the powder spreading unit; wherein, the first connecting end is the end of the connecting rod that connects to the powder spreading unit; and the second connecting end is the end of the connecting rod that connects to the connecting frame.

[0014] Preferably, the connecting frame is disposed on one or more sides of the powder spreading unit.

[0015] Preferably, the vibration unit includes one or more vibration sources.

[0016] This application also provides an additive manufacturing apparatus, including any of the powder spreading devices described above.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the powder spreading device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a scraper-type powder spreading unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of vibration energy transfer provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connecting component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of a vibration setting for a dual scraper according to an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another vibration setting for a dual scraper provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another vibration setting for a dual scraper provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a moving unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of powder spreading provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a wall panel provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connecting component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a connecting frame provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 13 This is another schematic diagram of vibration energy transfer provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a plug-in installation according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connecting rod provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another connecting frame provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0036] According to one embodiment of this application, the powder spreading device 1 presents as follows: Figure 1 The structure shown is as follows. The powder spreading device 1 has components such as a powder spreading unit 11 and a vibration unit 12.

[0037] According to one embodiment of this application, a scraper-type powder spreading unit 11 is provided. The powder spreading unit 11 is configured on one side of a build platform and is used to uniformly spread powder material on the build platform during additive manufacturing to form a powder layer to be irradiated. A vibration unit 12 is configured to be connected to the powder spreading unit 11 and to transmit vibration to the powder spreading unit 11; wherein the vibration parameters of the vibration unit 12 are adjustable to adapt to the flow characteristics of different powder materials.

[0038] For example, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the structure of a scraper 13, which includes components such as a blade body 131 and a cantilever 132. The bottom of the blade body 131 has a cutting edge structure for contacting and pushing powder material to form a uniform powder layer. The blade body 131 is mounted on the cantilever 132, which fixes the blade body 131 and supports the main structure of the scraper 13. A vibration unit 12 is configured to connect to the rear side of the cantilever 132 to transmit vibration to the blade body 131, causing the blade body 131 to promote a more uniform distribution of powder material under micro-vibration, while reducing powder material accumulation or particle adhesion. Figure 3 A vibration transmission path is shown, in which the vibration transmission path is vibration unit 12 - cantilever 132 - cutter body 131.

[0039] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the scraper 13 also has an adjustment component 111, which is configured to connect to the bottom of the cantilever 132 for adjusting the height of the cantilever 132, i.e., changing the height of the blade 131 relative to the powder-laying substrate, to adapt to the requirements of powder layer laying of different thicknesses. It should be understood that the powder-laying substrate is the plane where the top layer of the construction platform is located. The adjustment component 111 can adopt a threaded adjustment mechanism, changing the height of the cantilever 132 by rotating the adjustment screw; it can also adopt a gear and rack adjustment mechanism, using a knob to drive the gear to drive the rack to achieve height adjustment; or it can adopt an electric adjustment mechanism, using a motor to drive the lead screw to automatically adjust the height of the cantilever 132. It should be understood that the above-mentioned threaded adjustment mechanism, gear and rack adjustment mechanism, and electric adjustment mechanism are all existing technologies that can realize the lifting function. The vibration unit 12 is configured to connect to the cantilever 132, and a shock-absorbing pad is added at the contact point between the cantilever 132 and the adjustment component 111 to reduce vibration transmission. In this process, the vibration transmission path is vibration unit 12-cantilever 132-blade 131.

[0040] For example, the powder spreading unit 11 can be a double scraper structure, such as... Figure 5As shown, the powder spreading unit 11 is configured with a front scraper 13a and a rear scraper 13b arranged along the powder spreading direction to form a two-stage powder spreading effect. The front scraper 13a is the scraper that contacts the powder material first, and the rear scraper 13b is the scraper that contacts the powder material later. The front scraper 13a is configured for initial powder leveling, and the rear scraper 13b is configured for secondary precision powder spreading to ensure a more uniform distribution of the powder material. The vibration unit 12 and the dual scrapers can be configured in various ways.

[0041] In one example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the vibration unit 12 is separately mounted on the front scraper 13a. Under the action of the vibration unit 12a, the front scraper 13a can apply high-frequency vibration during the powder spreading process. The vibration can reduce the friction between powder particles, making the powder more evenly distributed when the front scraper 13a moves, and avoiding the formation of powder accumulation or voids in front of the scraper. The rear scraper 13b is only used to further level the powder layer laid by the front scraper 13a to ensure the final thickness and surface smoothness of the powder layer. This example is suitable for powder materials with poor flowability, such as ceramic powder and fine metal powder. It can improve the flowability and reduce accumulation during the initial spreading of the powder material. The rear scraper 13b can play a further leveling role, making the powder layer more uniform. And since only the front scraper 13a vibrates, the vibration energy loss is small.

[0042] In one example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the vibration unit 12b is separately mounted on the rear scraper 13b. The front scraper 13a, as a pre-laying tool, is mainly responsible for pushing the powder material, ensuring its uniform distribution and initial distribution in the build area. The rear scraper 13b applies vibration during the leveling process. This vibration helps to further distribute the powder material evenly, filling the gaps in the powder layer and improving its uniformity. Vibration also promotes powder particle settling, reducing air gaps in the powder layer and increasing powder packing density. This example is suitable for high-speed powder laying processes because the front scraper 13a has already completed most of the powder laying task, and the vibration of the rear scraper 13b can further optimize the powder laying. Under the action of vibration, the powder material can better fill the build area, increasing the powder layer density and meeting the requirements for dense molding.

[0043] In one example, such as Figure 7 As shown, vibration units 12a and 12b are respectively mounted on the front scraper 13a and the rear scraper 13b. The vibration of the front scraper 13a ensures that the powder material achieves a uniform distribution in the initial stage of powder spreading, thereby improving the initial quality of powder spreading. The vibration of the rear scraper 13b further levels the powder layer, eliminating localized unevenness in thickness caused by the front scraper 13a during powder spreading, thus improving the powder layer density. This example is suitable for manufacturing requirements requiring high precision and high density.

[0044] It should be considered that the vibration frequencies of the vibration units of the front scraper 13a and the rear scraper 13b can be configured to be the same or different. When the two vibrations work together (with the same vibration frequency), the powder spreading can be made more uniform. When the two vibration frequencies are different, a composite vibration effect can be formed to adapt to different powder types.

[0045] In one mechanism of composite vibration, the low-frequency vibration of the front scraper 13a is combined with the high-frequency vibration of the rear scraper 13b. This mechanism is suitable for materials with larger particles, spherical powders, good flowability but slow settling (such as spherical aluminum powder and spherical nickel powder). The low-frequency vibration of the front scraper 13a can slowly push the powder, preventing the powder from being thrown away by high-speed vibration, and making the large particles evenly distributed. The high-frequency vibration of the rear scraper 13b can enhance the filling effect of the powder, making the powder more compact and increasing the powder layer density. For example, spherical metal powder has good flowability, but the packing density may be insufficient. By combining the low-frequency front scraper 13a with the high-frequency rear scraper 13b, it can be ensured that the powder is laid evenly and densely.

[0046] In another mechanism of composite vibration, the high-frequency front scraper 13a is combined with the low-frequency rear scraper 13b. This mechanism is suitable for fine powders and powders that are prone to agglomeration, such as fine ceramic powder, fine metal powder, and composite material powder. The high-frequency front scraper 13a can disperse powder agglomerates, allowing the fine powder to spread more evenly in the powder spreading area. The low-frequency vibration of the rear scraper 13b allows the powder material to settle in a gentler manner, preventing the powder material from being disturbed by high-speed vibration and forming new uneven areas. For example, ceramic powder or fine metal powder (≤10μm) has poor flowability and is prone to forming small clumps. By combining the high-frequency front scraper 13a with the low-frequency rear scraper 13b, the powder can be prevented from agglomerating, while ensuring the final leveling effect.

[0047] In another mechanism of composite vibration, the low-frequency front scraper 13a is combined with the low-frequency rear scraper 13b. This mechanism is suitable for materials that require precise control of powder thickness, such as titanium alloy powder and nickel-based superalloy powder. The low-frequency vibration reduces the internal friction of the powder material, ensuring that the powder flows slowly and avoiding powder splashing or accumulation caused by violent vibration. For example, when titanium alloy powder is used in the aerospace field, the requirements for powder thickness and uniformity are high. Using this vibration mechanism can ensure that the powder layer is dense and consistent.

[0048] In another mechanism of composite vibration, the high frequency of the front scraper 13a is combined with the high frequency of the rear scraper 13b. This mechanism is suitable for high-precision powder spreading requirements, such as semiconductor-grade silicon powder and powder for precision additive manufacturing. For example, in semiconductor manufacturing or precision additive manufacturing, a very uniform powder layer is required. Using this vibration mechanism can ensure uniform powder deposition and avoid fine gaps or thickness fluctuations.

[0049] Furthermore, the vibration parameters of the vibration units 12 of the front scraper 13a and the rear scraper 13b can be adjusted separately to optimize the distribution effect of the powder material. The following provides some specific vibration parameter settings, with different vibration parameters set for different types of powder materials. For example, spherical titanium alloy powder has a particle size of approximately 15-45 μm and is characterized by good flowability but high density. The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (30 Hz) and small amplitude (5 μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to high frequency (80 Hz) and medium amplitude (20 μm). This allows for stable powder spreading followed by high-frequency filling, thereby increasing the powder layer density. Aluminum alloy powder has a particle size of approximately 20-60 μm and is characterized by its light weight and easy dispersion. The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (20 Hz) and large amplitude (30 μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to low frequency (20 Hz) and small amplitude (10 μm). This allows for low-frequency reduction of powder splashing, while the rear scraper 13b corrects the thickness. Ceramic powder (alumina) has a particle size of approximately 5-30 μm and is characterized by easy agglomeration and poor flowability. The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to high frequency (100 Hz) and medium amplitude (5 μm). The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (40Hz) and small amplitude (5μm), which can achieve high-frequency agglomeration breaking and low-frequency sedimentation, making the powder material more uniformly distributed. The stainless steel powder has a particle size of approximately 30-80μm, and is characterized by its weight and uneven distribution. The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (50Hz) and large amplitude (25μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to low frequency (50Hz) and small amplitude (25μm). The amplitude (5μm) can achieve low-frequency strong vibration to reduce voids and improve density. The particle size of semiconductor-grade silicon powder is about 1-10μm, which has the characteristics of being fine and easily affected by static electricity. The vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to high frequency (150Hz) and small amplitude (5μm), and the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to high frequency (150Hz) and small amplitude (5μm). This can achieve high-frequency synchronous vibration to prevent electrostatic adsorption and make the powder material distribution more uniform.

[0050] Due to the wide variety of materials available in additive manufacturing, some general vibration parameter adjustment strategies are provided below. For example, when powder agglomerates (such as fine ceramic powder or ultrafine metal powder), the vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to high frequency (80-150Hz) and medium amplitude (10-20μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to low frequency (30-50Hz) and small amplitude (5-10μm). When the powder density is low and easily dispersed (such as aluminum powder or magnesium powder), the vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (10-30Hz) and large amplitude (20-30μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to... For powders with uneven distribution and voids (such as heavy metal powders), the vibration parameters of the front scraper 13a can be set to low frequency (30-50Hz) and large amplitude (25-40μm), while the vibration parameters of the rear scraper 13b can be set to low frequency (30-50Hz) and small amplitude (5-10μm). For powders requiring extremely high precision (such as semiconductor-grade silicon powder), the front scraper 13a and rear scraper 13b can be set to synchronous high frequency (150Hz) and small amplitude (5μm). By adjusting the vibration frequency and amplitude of the front and rear scrapers 13b respectively, the distribution effect of different powder materials can be optimized. In particular, for powders that are prone to agglomeration, the high-frequency front scraper 13a helps to disperse the powder, while the low-frequency rear scraper 13b helps to stabilize the powder layer. For lightweight powders, reducing the vibration frequency and increasing the amplitude can reduce powder splashing and optimize the settling effect.

[0051] For example, in the powder spreading device 1, the integration of the vibration unit 12 can improve the powder spreading effect. However, different cantilever 132 structures have different effects on the transmission and response of vibration energy and the final powder spreading effect. The cantilever 132 structure can be a rigid structure or an elastic structure. The rigid cantilever 132 has high stiffness and stability and is not easily deformed by external forces or vibrations. It is suitable for use with the high-frequency vibration unit 12. The energy of the vibration unit 12 can be efficiently transferred to the blade 131, and the scraper 13 can move at a stable speed. At the same time, the vibration energy continuously acts on the powder, so that the powder layer maintains a uniform thickness distribution. The elastic cantilever 132 can deform under the action of external forces. It is suitable for use with the low-frequency vibration unit 12. The vibration unit 12 can not only act directly on the powder, but also more easily form a coupling effect with the elastic cantilever 132. The driving of the vibration unit 12 will cause the blade 131 to generate a resonance effect, further enhancing the vibration amplitude of the blade 131 and improving the powder spreading effect.

[0052] For example, based on the original scraper-type powder spreading unit 11, the scraper 13 can be replaced by a roller to form a roller-type powder spreading unit. The roller structure is suitable for some special powder materials (such as highly viscous powders or powders with poor flowability), and can further optimize the powder spreading effect. The vibration unit 12 is configured to drive the roller to vibrate, so that the roller vibrates while rolling. One way to install the vibration unit 12 is to install it directly on the rear side of the roller, so that the roller can vibrate directly; another way to install the vibration unit 12 is to install it on the rear side of the roller's support, so that the entire roller vibrates with the support.

[0053] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the vibration unit 12 is installed in the axial extension direction of the powder spreading unit 11, which can be understood as the vibration unit 12 being installed on the rear side of the powder spreading unit 11. On the one hand, since the vibration unit 12 is positioned at the rear, there is no need to install an additional drive mechanism or vibration component above the powder spreading unit 11, which can reduce the overall height of the powder spreading unit 11. As a result, the height of the forming chamber of the additive manufacturing equipment can also be made lower, which is beneficial for constructing small-sized equipment or compact additive manufacturing systems. On the other hand, since the vibration unit 12 is not installed above the powder spreading unit 11, the load-bearing requirement of the powder spreading unit 11 is reduced, and the structure of the powder spreading unit 11 can become smaller and lighter. In addition, in the low-amplitude high-frequency vibration mode, effective powder spreading can be maintained with a smaller driving force, so the powder spreading unit 11 can also be made smaller and lighter. As a result, the powder spreading unit 11 becomes smaller and lighter, and no complex fixing structure is required during installation. A quick-release installation structure (such as buckle, magnetic attraction, etc.) can be used. Users can replace the scraper with different materials, shapes, or sizes as needed to adapt to different powder materials and powder spreading requirements. At the same time, the vibration unit 12 only needs to use a smaller vibration power to make the powder spreading unit 11 vibrate as a whole.

[0054] It should be understood that in additive manufacturing processes, such as laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), directional airflow is introduced to the side of the build platform to control the airflow environment in the molten pool area, reduce the deposition of metal vapor and spatter, and regulate the cooling rate of the molten pool, reducing heat accumulation and residual stress. However, when the height of the build chamber is too high, the increased internal space can easily lead to complex circulation and turbulence of the airflow within the chamber, thereby disrupting the original directional airflow environment. Specifically, a higher build chamber can cause the directional airflow to diffuse, reflect, or collide before reaching the build area, thus forming local turbulence. This affects the stable heating of the molten pool by the laser during scanning and can easily cause metal vapor and spatter particles to circulate repeatedly within the build space, interfering with the uniform distribution of powder and ultimately reducing the forming accuracy and surface quality of the parts. The rear-mounted structure of the vibration unit 12, by compressing the height of the build chamber, makes the airflow path within the build space more compact, reducing the residence time and turbulence of air within the chamber, thereby effectively suppressing airflow disturbance. In this way, the directional airflow from the wind field can act more precisely on the laser scanning area, quickly removing metal fumes and spatter, and maintaining a stable heat distribution in the molten pool area. Ultimately, this improves the utilization efficiency of laser energy, enhances the stability of the molten pool, and improves the microstructure and mechanical properties of the parts.

[0055] Similarly, because the vibration unit 12 is positioned at the rear, the front and middle structures of the powder spreading unit 11 are not directly affected by the vibration source. Especially for ultrasonic vibration, the amplitude and frequency can be optimized more freely. A part of the powder spreading unit 11 can be configured as an amplitude transformer structure, with the rear of the powder spreading unit 11 receiving vibration and the amplitude of the front of the powder spreading unit 11 being amplified.

[0056] Similarly, because the vibration unit 12 is positioned at the rear, the main area of ​​vibration is limited to the rear end of the powder-laying unit 11. This reduces vibration in other parts of the powder-laying unit 11, thereby reducing unnecessary vibration propagation and making other areas more stable. Since the vibration is mainly concentrated at the rear end of the powder-laying unit 11, the vibration damping design does not need global optimization but can be localized. For example, damping (such as silicone shock-absorbing pads) can be added only at the rear end of the powder-laying unit 11. Vibration isolation is more efficient, and the vibration damping structure can be optimized for key parts, reducing unnecessary complexity.

[0057] For example, the vibration unit 12 can be one of an electromagnetic vibrator, a piezoelectric vibrator, and a mechanical eccentric vibrator. Among them, the electromagnetic vibrator generates an alternating magnetic field through a coil and an iron core, causing the powder spreading unit 11 to vibrate at high frequency; the piezoelectric vibrator integrates piezoelectric elements on the powder spreading unit 11 and generates micro-vibration through electrical signal excitation; the mechanical eccentric vibrator generates vibration through rotating an eccentric wheel and transmits it to the powder spreading unit 11.

[0058] For example, multiple vibration sources can be configured in the vibration unit 12. The vibration sources can be electromagnetic, piezoelectric, or mechanical vibrators. Each vibration source can work independently or in concert. Multiple vibration sources are installed behind the powder spreading unit 11 as needed. The number of vibration sources can be increased or decreased as needed according to the size and design requirements of the powder spreading unit 11. Multiple vibration sources can be controlled synchronously or independently to meet the needs of different types of powder spreading. In synchronous vibration, all vibration sources can work synchronously, providing a uniform vibration field through coordinated vibration modes. This ensures that the powder material in the powder spreading unit 11 receives uniform and stable vibration excitation. Synchronous vibration is suitable for the initial stage of powder spreading, especially when a large area of ​​powder material needs to be excited, enabling efficient and uniform dispersion of the powder. In independent control, under different working conditions, multiple vibration sources can independently control the vibration frequency, amplitude, and phase. By adjusting the parameters of each vibration source, different vibration effects can be generated during the powder spreading process. For example, some vibration sources can be set to high frequency and low amplitude to excite fine powder, while other vibration sources can be set to low frequency and high amplitude to be suitable for coarser powder. Through this flexible adjustment, different powder spreading requirements can be met, improving the powder spreading quality.

[0059] According to one embodiment of this application, the powder spreading device 1 further includes a moving unit 15, a powder storage bin 16, and a powder supply unit 17.

[0060] For example, Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the structure of a moving unit 15, which includes a pair of parallel guide rails 151 fixed to a base and extending along the powder spreading direction. The base is located within the additive manufacturing equipment. The guide rails 151 can be high-precision linear guide rails to ensure smooth operation of the powder spreading unit 11. Each guide rail 151 is equipped with a slider 152, which can move along the guide rail 151. The powder spreading unit 11 is connected to the slider 152. The moving unit 15 also includes a drive module for driving the slider 152. The drive module can use a motor-driven ball screw, synchronous belt, or rack and pinion mechanism to achieve reciprocating movement of the powder spreading unit 11. The motor can be a stepper motor or a servo motor to achieve precise displacement control.

[0061] For example, the moving unit 15 may include multiple pairs of guide rails 151, and each guide rail 151 may also be configured with multiple sliders 152. The guide rail 151 may also be fixed to the frame of the additive manufacturing equipment.

[0062] like Figure 9As shown, the powder storage bin 16 is configured to store the powder material to be laid, and at least a portion of the powder supply unit 17 is disposed in the powder storage bin 16 and configured to drive the powder material in the powder storage bin 16 to rise and overflow into the powder supply area 3; accordingly, the powder supply unit 17 may adopt a spiral feeding structure or a lifting feeding structure.

[0063] It should be explained in the above embodiments that, as Figure 9 As shown, the powder spreading direction is from the powder supply area 3 to the construction area 4; wherein, the powder supply area 3 is the area above the powder storage chamber 16, and the construction area 4 is the area above the curing layer 5. The curing layer 5 is formed by irradiation of the powder material / powder layer at the top of the construction platform 2. The starting point of the powder supply area 3 to the ending point of the construction area 4 can be understood as the powder spreading area.

[0064] In one example, a working process of a powder spreading device 1 is provided. The powder storage bin 16 is initially full. The powder supply unit 17 delivers the powder material in the powder storage bin 16 to the powder supply area 3. The moving unit 15 drives the powder spreading unit 11 to move along the guide rail 151 toward the build platform 2. At the same time, the scraper 13 spreads the powder material on the build platform 2. During the powder spreading process, the vibration unit 12 transmits vibration to the scraper 13. The vibration of the scraper 13 makes the powder material on the build platform 2 more evenly distributed, avoiding the accumulation of powder particles or the formation of voids, which would affect the printing effect. After the powder spreading is completed, the powder spreading unit 11 returns to the starting position along the guide rail 151, ready for the next powder spreading.

[0065] According to one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 10As shown, the wall panel 6 of the additive manufacturing equipment serves as the main supporting structure of the equipment, and the moving unit 15 is installed on the outer side of the wall panel 6. A through slot 61 is formed on the wall panel 6, which is a through-hole used to connect the powder spreading unit 11 and the vibration unit 12 located on both sides of the wall panel 6. Specifically, the powder spreading unit 11 is located on the inner side of the wall panel 6, and a portion of the powder spreading unit 11 passes through the through slot 61 to connect with the vibration unit 12 on the other side of the wall panel 6 to transmit vibration energy. The vibration unit 12 is installed on the outer side of the wall panel 6 and is connected to the portion of the powder spreading unit 11 that passes through the through slot 61. It should be understood that in another connection method, the powder spreading unit 11 is entirely located on the inner side of the wall panel 6, and the vibration unit 12 is located on the outer side of the wall panel 6, with a portion of the vibration unit 12 passing through the through slot 61 to connect with the powder spreading unit 11. Because the vibration unit 12 is installed isolated on the outside of the wall panel 6, the powder spreading unit 11 can be more compact, avoiding occupying the space above the forming chamber and reducing the overall height of the forming chamber. Furthermore, the wall panel 6 itself can provide some vibration isolation, preventing vibration from spreading to non-working areas. The length of the through groove 61 covers the entire stroke of the powder spreading unit 11, allowing the vibration unit 12 to move synchronously with it. This ensures that the vibration is always concentrated in the powder spreading area, improving powder spreading efficiency.

[0066] For example, flexible sealing strips are installed on both sides of the through groove 61. The flexible sealing strips on both sides can be released from the sealing state under the action of external force. The flexible sealing strips are only opened at the position where the vibration unit 12 and the powder spreading unit 11 pass through, so as to reduce the impact of dust.

[0067] According to one embodiment of this application, the vibration control of the powder spreading unit 11 has a crucial impact on powder spreading. When the vibration unit 12 applies vibration energy only to a single point or locally, it will result in uneven powder spreading. To address this, the vibration unit 12 is equipped with a connecting component that connects to the powder spreading unit 11 to transmit vibration energy to the powder spreading unit 11 at multiple points.

[0068] For example, the connecting component can be fixedly connected to the powder spreading unit 11 or in contact with it. In the fixed connection method, the connecting component is rigidly connected to the powder spreading unit 11 by bolts, which is suitable for high-frequency, small-amplitude vibration to ensure stable transmission of vibration energy. In the contact connection method, the connecting component is in contact with the powder spreading unit 11 but is not rigidly fixed. Vibration coupling can be achieved by using elasticity or pre-tightening pressure, which is suitable for more adaptable vibration modes and can reduce structural stress concentration.

[0069] For example, Figure 11The structure of a connecting component 121 is shown. One end of the connecting component 121 is connected to the vibration unit 12, and the other end is connected to the powder spreading unit 11. The size of the connecting end of the connecting component 121 to the vibration unit 12 is smaller than the size of the connecting end of the connecting component 121 to the powder spreading unit 11. The connecting component 121 with this structure can amplify the amplitude and make the vibration transmitted to the powder spreading unit 11 clearer.

[0070] For example, Figure 12 Another connecting component structure is shown, which is constructed as a connecting frame 122. Specifically, the connecting frame 122 can be a truss structure, which can optimize the structural rigidity-to-weight ratio. Several connecting rods 123 extend from the connecting frame 122 and connect to the powder-spreading unit 11, forming multiple vibration excitation points 124 on the powder-spreading unit 11. Vibration energy is transmitted to the powder-spreading unit 11 through these multiple vibration excitation points 124, ensuring uniform transmission of vibration energy to the powder-spreading unit 11. The transmission path is as follows: Figure 13 As shown. It should be explained that the vibration excitation point 124 refers to the contact position between the connecting rod 123 and the powder spreading unit 11, and its specific shape can include various styles.

[0071] For example, the arrangement of vibration excitation points 124 can improve the powder spreading effect. The arrangement patterns of connecting rods 123 include linear arrangement and annular arrangement. Linear arrangement is suitable for scraper 13 type powder spreading, and can be arranged in a single row or multiple rows. By adjusting the spacing of connecting rods 123, the density of vibration excitation points 124 can be dynamically adjusted to adapt to different scraper 13 widths and powder flow characteristics. Annular arrangement is suitable for roller type powder spreading. By adjusting the angle of connecting rods 123, the vibration excitation points 124 are distributed around the roller.

[0072] It should be understood that the connecting rod 123 can be fixedly connected to the connecting frame 122 or detachably connected. In the fixed connection method, the connecting rod 123 and the connecting frame 122 can be welded or integrally formed, suitable for specific working conditions; the detachable connection is suitable for scenarios requiring flexible adjustment of the vibration excitation point 124 to adapt to different material and process requirements. The detachable connection can adopt a plug-in connection or a bolt-locking connection. Figure 14 A pluggable structure is provided. In the pluggable connection, the connecting frame 122 has several slots 1221, and one end of the connecting rod 123 is configured as a plug 1231. The plug 1231 can be inserted into the slot 1221 for installation. The pluggable connection is suitable for scenarios that require frequent adjustment of vibration modes, such as switching between multiple materials. In addition, elastic buckles or locking pins can be used for fixing to prevent the connecting rod 123 from loosening during vibration. In the bolt-locking connection, the connecting frame 122 has several threaded holes, and one end of the connecting rod 123 is configured as a thread to be screwed into the threaded holes on the connecting frame 122 for installation.

[0073] For example, such as Figure 15 As shown, the connecting rod 123 can be configured in a similar conical structure, that is, its first connecting end 1232 (the end connected to the powder spreading unit 11) is larger, while its second connecting end 1233 (the end connected to the connecting frame 122) is smaller. This can optimize the transmission of vibration energy. It can distribute the vibration energy evenly to the surface of the powder spreading unit 11 through a larger contact area. The larger contact surface can enhance the transmission efficiency of vibration, making the vibration coverage area wider and the amplitude balance better. In addition, the larger contact surface can also help reduce the concentration effect of vibration and avoid unevenness or excessive wear on the surface of the powder spreading unit 11 due to excessive local vibration of the powder spreading unit 11.

[0074] For example, the connecting frame 122 can be disposed on different sides of the powder spreading unit 11. For instance, if the connecting frame 122 is disposed above the powder spreading unit 11, it can utilize the downward transmission characteristics of vibration to ensure that vibration energy can be effectively transmitted to the powder spreading unit 11, further enhancing the vibration amplitude and powder spreading effect of the powder spreading unit 11. In addition, the connecting frame 122 disposed above can avoid direct contact with the powder, thereby reducing powder material loss. The connecting frame 122 can also be disposed on the horizontal side of the powder spreading unit 11 to increase the vibration coverage range and free up space above the powder spreading unit 11.

[0075] For example, Figure 16 The diagram illustrates the structure of a connecting frame 122, specifically an inclined truss structure. The connection end of the connecting frame 122 to the vibration unit 12 is higher than its connection end to the powder spreading unit 11. This can be understood as the connecting frame 122 tilting downwards from the vibration unit 12 to the powder spreading unit 11. Correspondingly, the connecting rods 123a to 123e gradually shorten. It should be understood that the longer connecting rods attenuate the vibration energy transmission more than the shorter connecting rods 123a and 123e. Therefore, as the vibration energy is transmitted from the end of the connecting frame 122 closer to the vibration unit 122 to the end farther from the vibration unit 122, the vibration energy gradually attenuates. However, during this process, the attenuation of the vibration energy in each connecting rod 123a to 123e gradually decreases, thereby balancing the vibration energy received by each vibration excitation point 124a to 124e, making the overall amplitude of the powder spreading unit 11 more balanced.

[0076] According to one embodiment of this application, the powder spreading device 1 described above can be considered as part of an additive manufacturing apparatus. Therefore, this application also protects an additive manufacturing apparatus that includes, in addition to, […]. Figure 1In addition to the components shown, the additive manufacturing equipment also includes components provided in any embodiment of this application. It should be understood that the additive manufacturing equipment also includes components necessary for realizing additive manufacturing, including but not limited to lasers, worktables, control systems, etc.

[0077] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

[0078] List of reference numerals

[0079] 1. Powder spreading device

[0080] 11 Powder Spreading Unit

[0081] 13 Scraper

[0082] 131 Blade Body

[0083] 132 cantilever

[0084] 111 Adjustment component

[0085] 13a Front scraper

[0086] 13b Rear scraper

[0087] 121 Connecting components

[0088] 122 Connecting frame

[0089] 1221 slot

[0090] 1231 plug

[0091] 1232 First connection end

[0092] 1233 Second connection end

[0093] 151 guide rail

[0094] 152 sliders

[0095] 16 Powder Storage Compartments

[0096] 17 Powder Supply Unit

[0097] 2. Building a platform

[0098] 3 Powder supply area

[0099] 4. Constructing the Region

[0100] 5 Curing layer

[0101] 6. Wall panels

[0102] 61 Through slot

[0103] Vibration units 12, 12a, and 12b

[0104] Connecting rods 123, 123a, 123b, 123c, 123d, 123e

[0105] Vibration excitation points 124, 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d, 124e

Claims

1. A powder spreading apparatus for use in additive manufacturing equipment, wherein the powder spreading apparatus comprises: The powder spreading unit is configured to movably apply powder material layer by layer onto the build platform to form a powder layer to be irradiated; as well as A vibration unit is constructed in the axial extension direction of the powder spreading unit and transmits vibration to the powder spreading unit.

2. The powder spreading device according to claim 1, wherein the powder spreading unit is a scraper; The scraper includes at least one blade body that contacts the powder and a cantilever for fixing the at least one blade body; in, The vibration unit is configured to be connected to the cantilever.

3. The powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the powder spreading unit is configured on one side of the wall panel of the additive manufacturing apparatus, and the vibration unit is configured on the other side of the wall panel.

4. The powder spreading device according to claim 3, wherein a through groove is provided on the wall plate for connecting the powder spreading unit and the vibration unit, and at least a portion of the vibration unit passes through the through groove and is connected to the powder spreading unit.

5. The powder spreading device according to claim 4, wherein the length of the through groove at least covers the movement trajectory of the powder spreading unit so that the vibration unit moves synchronously with the powder spreading unit.

6. The powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the vibration unit includes a connecting member connected to the powder spreading unit and configured to transmit vibration to the powder spreading unit.

7. The powder spreading device according to claim 6, wherein the connecting component can be fixedly connected or abuttingly connected to the powder spreading unit.

8. The powder spreading apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the connecting member is configured as a connecting frame, and one or more connecting rods extend from the connecting frame to the powder spreading unit to form one or more vibration excitation points on the powder spreading unit.

9. The powder spreading device according to claim 8, wherein the first connecting end of the connecting rod is larger than the second connecting end, so as to balance the amplitude of the powder spreading unit; in, The first connecting end is the end where the connecting rod body connects to the powder spreading unit; The second connecting end is the end where the connecting rod body connects to the connecting frame body.

10. The powder spreading device according to claim 8, wherein the connecting frame is disposed on one or more sides of the powder spreading unit.

11. The powder spreading device according to claim 1, wherein the vibration unit comprises one or more vibration sources.

12. An additive manufacturing apparatus comprising the powder spreading device as described in any one of claims 1-11.

Images