Powder supply device and additive manufacturing equipment with same

Abstract

The powder supply device (2) comprises a powder feeding part (21), and the powder feeding part (21) is provided with at least one material opening (216) connected with a powder supply connector; the dispersing part (22) is connected with the powder feeding part (21), and a uniform flow guide belt (222) for uniformly conveying powder flow is arranged in the dispersing part (22); the vibration part (23) is arranged at one end of the powder feeding part (21) and is used for providing vibration force acting on the powder feeding part (21), so that the powder feeding part (21) uniformly conveys powder flow through the dispersion part (22); and the material level detection part (24) is at least partially inserted into the powder feeding part (21) and is used for detecting the amount of powder in the powder feeding part (21). Under the action of vibration, a layer of uniform powder flow can be formed in the dispersing part (22), and powder is uniformly conveyed to a designated position, so that continuous and stable conveying of powder materials is realized, and the vibration frequency and amplitude can be adjusted according to different material properties to achieve a better conveying effect.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The powder supply device in additive manufacturing is often referred to as the powder supply system. It is a crucial part of the additive manufacturing process, directly affecting the quality and performance of the final part. It is designed to provide the necessary material powder and ensure that it is evenly distributed and applied during the manufacturing process. Although different additive manufacturing technologies may employ different powder supply structures and principles, current powder supply device designs are generally divided into two main forms: upper powder supply structure and lower powder supply structure.

[0003] Top-feeding structures typically consist of a powder feeding hopper, a powder storage tank, and a powder feeding shaft. The rotational motion of the powder feeding shaft, especially for ultrafine (less than 20µm) metal powders, can easily cause powder agglomeration and uneven distribution during the feeding process. Bottom-feeding structures generally employ a powder feeding cylinder, usually located at the bottom of the forming chamber. The powder feeding cylinder uses specific machinery to evenly transport the powder to the surface of the forming layer, completing the powder feeding process. While this bottom-feeding structure avoids the dust problems associated with top-feeding structures, the amount of powder supplied by the cylinder is limited. During the continuous forming of large parts or small batches of parts, it may be necessary to open the chamber door midway to add powder, increasing instability during the forming process.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a powder supply device that can achieve a loose and uniform powder supply and improve the efficiency of powder supply. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a powder supply device and an additive manufacturing apparatus equipped with the powder supply device, which can achieve a loose and uniform powder supply, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of powder supply.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a powder supply device, comprising: a powder feeding section having at least one feed port for connecting to a powder supply interface; a dispersing section connected to the powder feeding section; a vibration section disposed at one end of the powder feeding section for providing vibrational force acting on the powder feeding section, so that the powder feeding section uniformly conveys a powder flow through the dispersing section; and a material level detection section for detecting the amount of powder in the powder feeding section.

[0007] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the powder feeding section is disposed in the forming chamber of the additive manufacturing equipment, and the plane of the powder feeding section is at a preset angle to the plane of the forming platform of the additive manufacturing equipment, wherein the preset angle ranges from -45° to 45°.

[0008] In one alternative of the first aspect, the vibrating part is an electromagnetic vibrator, which provides a vibrational force acting on the powder feeding part, so that the inclined powder feeding part can uniformly convey the powder flow through the dispersing part.

[0009] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the powder feeding section is provided with at least one powder blocking element, and the powder blocking element is disposed between the powder feeding section and the dispersing section.

[0010] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, a dispersion conveying channel for controlling the height of the powder flow is formed between the powder blocking element and the dispersion part, the dispersion part is provided with at least one powder guiding element, a powder guiding channel for controlling the powder flow is formed between the powder guiding element and the dispersion part, and the powder guiding channel is connected to the dispersion conveying channel.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, a uniform flow guide belt for uniformly conveying powder flow is arranged within the dispersion section, and several strips of the uniform flow guide belt are arranged in an array along the powder feeding direction of the dispersion section.

[0012] In one alternative of the first aspect, several strips of the uniform flow guide belt are arranged continuously or intermittently along the powder feeding direction of the dispersion section.

[0013] In one alternative of the first aspect, at least some of the strips of the flow guide are configured as curved and / or diffusing straight lines.

[0014] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the dispersing section is provided with at least one powder guiding element, and a powder guiding channel for controlling powder flow is formed between the powder guiding element and the dispersing section.

[0015] In one alternative to the first aspect, it further includes: a powder storage unit for receiving powder conveyed by the powder guiding channel.

[0016] In one alternative of the first aspect, the powder storage unit is provided with a weight detection unit, which is located at one end of the powder storage unit and is used to detect the weight of the powder received by the powder storage unit.

[0017] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the device further includes: a mounting base; and an elastic support, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the mounting base and the powder feeding part for rigid adjustment.

[0018] In one alternative of the first aspect, the vibrating part is disposed on a mounting base, and the vibrating part is connected to the powder feeding part via a connector.

[0019] In one alternative to the first aspect, a damping element is further included, which is disposed at one end of the mounting base to prevent interference with the optical components included in the additive manufacturing equipment.

[0020] In one alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the device further includes: a morphology distribution detection unit for detecting the morphology distribution of powder within the dispersion section, wherein the morphology distribution detection unit employs at least one of a laser scanning sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a vision sensor.

[0021] Secondly, this application provides an additive manufacturing apparatus equipped with the powder supply device.

[0022] In one alternative of the second aspect, the powder supply device is installed inside the forming chamber of the additive manufacturing equipment.

[0023] 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

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application and to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the present application.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a first schematic diagram of an exemplary additive manufacturing apparatus according to some embodiments of this application.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a first perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a second perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a rear view schematic diagram of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a first connection diagram of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of an exemplary additive manufacturing apparatus according to some embodiments of this application.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary powder feeding unit installed horizontally according to some embodiments of this application.

[0032] Figure 8This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary powder feeding section installed at an angle according to some embodiments of this application.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a third perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a first cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a fourth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a first style of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a second style of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a third style of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a fourth schematic diagram of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a first cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0041] Figure 17 This is a second cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary flow guide strip according to some embodiments of this application.

[0042] Figure 18 This is a fifth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0043] Figure 19 This is a second cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0044] Figure 20 This is a sixth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0045] Figure 21 This is a seventh perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0046] Figure 22This is an eighth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0047] Figure 23 This is a ninth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0048] Figure 24 This is a tenth perspective view of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0049] Figure 25 This is a second connection diagram of an exemplary powder supply device according to some embodiments of this application.

[0050] Explanation of reference numerals in the instruction manual:

[0051] 1. Additive manufacturing equipment; 2. Powder supply device; 3. 3D parts; 4. Terminal equipment; 10. Optical path unit; 11. Powder supply system; 12. Forming chamber; 13. Building cylinder; 14. Forming lifting device; 15. Powder spreading device; 100. Energy beam; 101. Powder bed; 120. Base; 121. Forming platform; 20. Mounting base; 21. Powder feeding section; 22. Dispersion section; 23. Vibration section; 24. Material level detection section; 26. Powder storage section; 27. Elastic support section; 28. Shock absorption section; 40. Processor; 41. Memory; 42. Calculator. Computer program or instructions, 200, handle, 210, first base plate, 211, first top plate, 212, first side plate, 213, second side plate, 214, third side plate, 215, fourth side plate, 216, feed port, 217, powder supply interface, 218, powder blocking component, 220, second top plate, 221, second base plate, 222, flow equalization guide belt, 223, powder guiding component, 224, scanning port, 230, connector, 260, weight detection unit, 280, shock absorption unit a, 281, shock absorption unit b, 290, laser beam or ultrasonic wave. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, they are provided to make this application more complete and comprehensive, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to give a full understanding of embodiments of this application.

[0053] To facilitate understanding, let's first give a brief introduction to additive manufacturing equipment 1.

[0054] Additive manufacturing equipment 1, also known as a 3D printer, is designed to selectively solidify layer-by-layer coated powder to construct three-dimensional parts 3. The powder is in the form of solid particles, preferably made of metal, such as stainless steel, copper, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy, etc.; in addition to metal materials, ceramics, plastics, resins and composite materials can also be used to construct three-dimensional parts 3.

[0055] To construct a 3D part 3 in greater detail, the additive manufacturing equipment 1 typically uses an energy beam 100 (laser / electron beam) generated by its optical path system as an energy source to selectively laser sinter (SLS) or selectively laser melt (SLM) solidify the powder layers laid layer by layer on the area above the substrate platform by the powder spreading device 15. It should be understood that powder is the basic material constituting the powder layers and powder bed 101. Each powder layer consists of powder particles uniformly spread on the substrate platform, and multiple powder layers stacked together constitute the entire powder bed 101. During the printing process of each layer, the powder is selectively solidified by the energy beam 100 or other energy source to form the actual printed part of that layer, while the unsolidified powder becomes the supporting structure or the foundation for the next layer. After each layer is printed, the substrate platform descends a small distance to allow for the laying of a new layer of powder. Thus, the layered powder layers ultimately form the entire powder bed 101, where the powder is tightly packed to ensure printing accuracy.

[0056] The additive manufacturing equipment 1 consists of at least a mechanical unit, an optical path unit 10, and a control system 16. In a specific spatial arrangement, the optical path unit 10 can be positioned above the mechanical unit, or it can be configured based on the core utility model points taught in this application, according to the actual structural design. In the control logic, the control system 16 controls both the mechanical unit and the optical path unit 10; that is, the control of the powder supply device 2 in this application is preferably implemented by the computer control system 16. It should be understood that the control system 16 is connected to all components of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, including the mechanical unit and the optical path unit 10, and is used to monitor and adjust printing parameters, motion control, and sensor data to ensure the execution of the 3D printing process.

[0057] Before 3D printing, the operator needs to use modeling software, such as computer-aided design (CAD) software, to create a 3D model of the part 3 to be printed. Then, the model is layered, divided into multiple slit sections, each representing a layer to be printed, generating corresponding layer data. This layering process generates a series of layer data for each layer to be printed, describing the geometry and printing path of each layer. The control system 16 can control the operation of each component of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 based on this layer data, achieving selective sintering / melting layer by layer to construct the complete 3D part 3.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 As shown, the mechanical unit of additive manufacturing equipment 1 is typically composed of components such as a powder supply system 11, a forming chamber 12, a building cylinder 13, a forming lifting device 14, a powder spreading device 15, and a powder recovery device.

[0059] The powder recovery device may include powder recovery cylinders located on both sides of the construction cylinder; it may also be used in conjunction with a powder suction device and a waste collector. The powder suction device may be configured as a vacuum cleaner to collect powder in the recovery work area. By setting up the powder suction device, these powder residues can be collected and transported to a suitable collection container (e.g., guided into a waste collector or powder recovery cylinder) for processing or recycling, thereby ensuring a good working environment and manufacturing quality in subsequent manufacturing processes.

[0060] The powder supply system 11 is located within the additive manufacturing equipment 1 and stores powder for manufacturing the three-dimensional part 3. The powder supply device 2 is located within the forming chamber 12, above the powder bed and at least partially connected to the powder supply system 11, for supplying powder to the forming chamber 12 for manufacturing the three-dimensional part 3. The forming chamber 12 is the core area for containing the printing process and typically consists of a series of sealed walls to prevent external environmental interference and provide a controlled environment. The forming chamber 12 is usually filled with an inert gas, such as Ar (argon), to reduce powder oxidation and adverse reactions, ensuring the printing quality of the three-dimensional part 3. The build-up cylinder 13 is a container within the forming chamber 12 that holds the three-dimensional part 3 formed during the printing process. During printing, the solidified structure gradually accumulates within the build-up cylinder 13, eventually forming a complete three-dimensional part 3. The build-up cylinder 13 is typically made of high-temperature and corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the high temperatures and chemical effects of the printing process. A base 120 is provided inside the forming chamber 12. The base 120 is the basic component supporting the entire printing process. It is detachably installed inside the build cylinder 13 to support the bottom surface of the three-dimensional part 3 and provide stable support. The base 120 can move vertically up and down along the inner wall of the build cylinder 13 under the drive of the forming lifting device 14. By adjusting the movement of the forming lifting device 14, the distance between the base 120 and the optical path system can be controlled to adapt to different layers of printing operations. After each layer of printing is completed, the forming lifting device 14 can move the base 120 down a set distance to lay a new layer of powder on it, promoting the layer-by-layer addition of powder. The forming platform 121 is disposed above the base 120 and can be fixedly installed on the base 120 by fasteners (such as bolts). The cross-sectional area of ​​the forming platform 121 is preferably the same as the cross-sectional area of ​​the base 120 and the bottom of the forming chamber 12. Therefore, it can also be understood that the powder is conveyed layer by layer by the powder spreading device 15 to the top of the construction cylinder 13 to form a powder bed 101 on the forming platform 121.

[0061] In some embodiments, reference Figure 2As shown, the powder supply device 2 of this application is composed of at least a mounting base 20, a powder feeding section 21, a dispersing section 22, a vibration section 23, a material level detection section 24, and a vibration controller 25. The plane of the mounting base 20 is parallel to the plane of the first base plate 210. The powder feeding section 21 is disposed above the forming chamber 12, and the powder feeding section 21 has at least one material port 216 for connecting to the powder supply interface 217, that is, both ends of the powder supply interface 217 are respectively connected to the material port 216 and the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. At least one dispersing section 22 is connected to the powder feeding section 21, and the dispersing section 22 contains... The powder feeding section 21 is equipped with a uniform flow guide belt 222 for uniformly conveying the powder flow; at least one vibration section 23 is disposed at one end of the powder feeding section 21, the vibration section 23 is used to provide vibration force acting on the powder feeding section 21, so that the powder feeding section 21 uniformly conveys the powder flow through the dispersion section 22; at least one material level detection section 24 is disposed at one end of the powder feeding section 21, and the material level detection section 24 is at least partially inserted into the powder feeding section 21, the material level detection section 24 is used to detect the amount of powder in the powder feeding section 21; a vibration controller is connected to the vibration section 23 and is used to control the vibration frequency, amplitude, duration and on / off parameters of the vibration section 23, etc., of the control system 16.

[0062] In some embodiments, reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the second base plate 221 of the dispersion section 22 includes a second base plate I221-a and a second base plate II221-b. The setting direction of the second base plate II221-b is perpendicular to the plane where the second base plate I221-a is located or at a set angle. The specific angle is set by the installer according to actual needs.

[0063] In actual implementation, the shape and structure of the powder feeding section 21 are set by the installer according to actual needs. In this embodiment, reference is made to... Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the powder feeding section 21 includes a first bottom plate 210, a first top plate 211, a first side plate 212, a second side plate 213, a third side plate 214, and a fourth side plate 215. The first top plate 211 has a feed port 216, which is connected to the powder supply interface 217. The first side plate 212 acts as a barrier, allowing the powder to flow smoothly forward when fed through the feed port 216, effectively preventing large-scale powder flow, preventing material spurting, and avoiding powder blockage. The powder supply interface 217 is larger than the feed port 216, and the powder supply interface 217 is interconnected with the feed port 216. The dispersion section... 22 includes a second top plate 220 and a second bottom plate 221. The second bottom plate 221 of the dispersing section 22 and the first bottom plate 210 of the powder feeding section 21 can be integrally formed or spliced. In this embodiment, integral forming is preferred. The second top plate 220 of the dispersing section 22 is connected to the first side plate 212 of the powder feeding section 21 (the connection can be a fixed connection or a detachable connection). A preset distance is set between the second bottom plate 221 of the dispersing section 22 and the first side plate 212 of the powder feeding section 21 (the preset distance is set by the installer according to actual needs) to form a dispersing conveying channel. The dispersing conveying channel controls the dispersing and conveying process. The height of the powder flow controls the powder feeding amount; the uniform flow guide belt 222 arranged on the dispersion section 22 can be curved or diffused straight, and can be continuous or discontinuous; the vibration section 23 is connected to the first base plate 210 of the powder feeding section 21, and can be any form of vibration structure as long as it can provide vibration force or excitation force, including but not limited to motor-driven vibrators, electromagnetic vibrators, etc. In this embodiment, an electromagnetic vibrator is used as a reference. The electromagnetic vibrator provides vibration force acting on the powder feeding section 21, so that the powder feeding section 21 transports the powder flow to the dispersion section 22, forming a uniform flow in the dispersion section 22. The powder is uniformly conveyed. Specifically, under the action of vibration, the powder feeding section 21 disperses the powder flow from the first base plate 210 to the second base plate 221-a, forming a uniform powder flow on the second base plate 221-a, and then falling from the second base plate 221-b. The material level detection section 24 is installed on the second side plate 213 and connected to the control system 16 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The material level detection section 24 can be any type of detection instrument that can detect the amount of powder in the powder feeding section 21, including but not limited to laser level gauges, ultrasonic level gauges, and microwave level gauges, etc., and is specifically set by the installer according to actual needs. In some embodiments, refer to Figure 3 As shown, the mounting base 20 is also provided with at least one handle 200, which facilitates the installer to grasp the powder supply device 2 of this application.

[0064] For example, there are two handles 200, and the handles 200 are located at both ends of the mounting base 20.

[0065] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7As shown, the detection end of the material level detection unit 24 passes through the second side plate 213 and is inserted into the powder feeding unit 21.

[0066] In some embodiments, the detection end of the material level detection unit 24 does not pass through the second side plate 213, and a window is opened at the second measuring plate 213. The detection end of the material level detection unit 24 is connected to the window, and the material level detection unit 24 detects the amount of powder in the powder feeding unit 21 through the window.

[0067] In some embodiments, reference Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 19 As shown, the powder feeding section 21 is installed in the forming chamber of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, and the plane of the powder feeding section 21 is at a preset angle to the plane of the forming platform 121 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1.

[0068] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 , Figure 8 As shown, the powder feeding section 21 is inclinedly arranged in the forming chamber 12 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, and the inclined surface of the first base plate 210 of the powder feeding section 21 forms a preset angle with the plane of the forming platform 121 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The specific preset angle is set by the installer according to actual needs. The inclined powder feeding section 21 further reduces the dust generated when conveying powder. In this embodiment, the preset angle α is set in the range of -45° to 45° to ensure uniform powder conveying and prevent excessive powder from falling due to excessive tilt angle.

[0069] In some embodiments, the preset angle α is set to -10° to 10° to ensure uniform powder delivery and prevent excessive powder from falling due to gravity caused by excessive tilt angle.

[0070] In one embodiment, the preset angle α is set to 0°, meaning the horizontal plane of the powder feeding section is parallel to the forming platform. That is, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 7 As shown, the powder feeding section 21 is horizontally arranged in the forming chamber 12 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, and the horizontal plane of the first base plate 210 of the powder feeding section 21 is parallel to the plane of the forming platform 121 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1.

[0071] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the powder supply process is as follows: when the material level detection unit 24 detects a lack of powder in the powder feeding unit 21, it transmits a powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to supply powder to the powder feeding unit 21. Then, the control system 16 sets the powder supply weight and supply speed and sends a vibration signal to the vibration controller according to the set powder supply weight and supply speed. The vibration controller selects the appropriate vibration energy, frequency and time according to the vibration signal, and then controls the vibration unit 23 to vibrate. Under the action of vibration, the powder disperses from the first base plate 220 to the second base plate I221-a, and on the second base plate... A uniform powder flow is formed on I221-a, and then falls from the second base plate I221-b, thereby conveying the appropriate powder weight to the forming platform 121 at an appropriate supply speed, forming a uniform and flattened powder layer on the forming platform 121. When the material level detection unit 24 detects that the powder feeding unit 21 is not short of powder, it transmits a stop powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the stop powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to stop feeding powder to the powder feeding unit 21, and at the same time sends a stop signal to the vibration controller and a powder spreading signal to the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The powder spreading device 15 spreads the powder on the forming platform 121 to form a powder bed 101.

[0072] The powder supply device 2 can also be set to an intermittent powder feeding mode, that is, the powder spreading device 15 performs powder spreading once after each powder feeding is completed. After the powder spreading is completed, the optical path unit 10 scans the current layer of the formed part. After the optical path unit 10 completes the printing of the current layer of the formed part, the forming platform 121 moves downward a set distance (layer thickness) and then continues to feed powder. This working mode is controlled by the control system 16 in conjunction with the vibration controller, the material level detection unit 24 and the control system 16 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, so as to control the entire process and achieve stable, uniform and intelligent powder feeding.

[0073] In some embodiments, the vibration section 23 employs an electromagnetic vibrator to provide vibrational force acting on the powder feeding section 21, so that the inclined powder feeding section 21 uniformly conveys the powder flow through the dispersion section 22.

[0074] Specifically, based on the size of the powder feeding section 21 and the characteristics of the powder, an electromagnetic vibrator with appropriate power and frequency is selected and installed on the first base plate 210 of the powder feeding section 21. Alternatively, it can be installed on the first side plate 212, second side plate 213, third side plate 214, or fourth side plate 215 of the powder feeding section 21, with the specific position adjusted according to the powder flow path. When installing the vibration section 23, the installation angle and direction of the electromagnetic vibrator are adjusted so that it can produce the best vibration effect in the z-axis or inclined direction. Furthermore, the frequency and amplitude of the electromagnetic vibrator can be adjusted by the vibration controller to adapt to different types of powders and flow requirements.

[0075] In some embodiments, reference Figure 10 As shown, the powder feeding section 21 is provided with at least one powder blocking component 218. The powder blocking component 218 is disposed between the first side plate 212 of the powder feeding section 21 and the second top plate 220 of the dispersing section 22, and a preset distance is provided between the powder blocking component 218 and the second bottom plate 221 of the dispersing section 22 (the preset distance is set by the installer according to actual needs) to form a dispersing conveying channel.

[0076] In some embodiments, the distance between the powder blocking component 218 and the second base plate 221 is a preset distance, and the plane on which the second base plate 221 is located is perpendicular to the installation direction of the powder blocking component 218, thereby controlling the height of the powder flow and thus controlling the amount of powder fed.

[0077] In some embodiments, the distance between the powder blocking component 218 and the second base plate 221 is a preset distance, and the plane on which the second base plate 221 is located forms a preset angle with the installation direction of the forming platform 121 (the preset angle is set by the installer according to actual needs), that is, the inclined surface of the powder blocking component 218 forms a preset angle with the plane on which the forming platform 121 is located.

[0078] In actual implementation, at least one side of the powder blocking component 218 is configured as one or more of a planar surface, an arc surface, and a wavy surface, and the number of powder blocking components 218 can be a single one or an array of several. When multiple powder blocking components 218 are arranged, each powder blocking component 218 can be configured in the same style or in different styles. For example, when there are 3 powder blocking components 218, at least one side of each powder blocking component 218 can be partially or completely configured as a planar surface; or at least one side of any powder blocking component 218 can be partially or completely configured as a planar surface, at least one side of the second powder blocking component 218 can be partially or completely configured as an arc surface, and at least one side of the third powder blocking component 218 can be partially or completely configured as a wavy surface; or at least one side of any powder blocking component 218 can be partially or completely configured as a planar surface, and at least one side of the other powder blocking components 218 can be partially or completely configured as an arc surface and / or a wavy surface. The specific design style is set by the installer according to the actual needs.

[0079] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the powder supply process is as follows: when the material level detection unit 24 detects a lack of powder in the powder feeding unit 21, it transmits a powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to supply powder to the powder feeding unit 21. Then, the control system 16 sets the powder supply weight and supply speed and sends a vibration signal to the vibration controller according to the set powder supply weight and supply speed. The vibration controller selects the appropriate vibration energy, frequency and time according to the vibration signal, and then controls the vibration unit 23 to vibrate. Under the action of vibration, the powder disperses from the first base plate 220 to the second base plate I221-a, forming a uniform powder on the second base plate I221-a. The powder flow is controlled by the powder blocking component 218, and the powder flow falls from the second base plate I221-b. This delivers the appropriate powder weight to the forming platform 121 at an appropriate supply speed, forming a uniform and flattened powder layer on the forming platform 121. When the material level detection unit 24 detects that the powder feeding unit 21 is not short of powder, it transmits a stop powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the stop powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to stop feeding powder to the powder feeding unit 21, and sends a stop signal to the vibration controller and a powder spreading signal to the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The powder spreading device 15 spreads the powder on the forming platform 121 to form a powder bed 101.

[0080] In some embodiments, reference Figure 11 As shown, at least one set of uniform flow guide belts 222 is disposed in the dispersion section 22, and several strips of the uniform flow guide belts 222 are arranged in an array along the powder feeding direction of the dispersion section 22.

[0081] In some embodiments, reference Figure 12 As shown, several strips are arranged continuously along the powder feeding direction of the second base plate 221, or, refer to Figure 13 As shown, several strips are intermittently arranged along the powder feeding direction of the second base plate 221.

[0082] In some embodiments, reference Figure 12 As shown, at least some of the stripes are set to curves.

[0083] In some embodiments, reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, at least some of the stripes are configured as diffusing linear patterns.

[0084] Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of several strips of the flow guide strip 222 can be at least one of circular, triangular, rectangular, square, and trapezoidal shapes. In this embodiment, referencing... Figure 16 and17 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of several strips of the uniform flow guide belt 222 is triangular or circular, ensuring that the size of the upper end of the strip is smaller than the size of the lower end of the strip, i.e., narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, to avoid uneven powder distribution and achieve the flattening effect of ultrafine powder.

[0085] In actual implementation, a set of uniform flow guide belts 222 contains several strips, at least partially configured as curved and / or diffusing straight lines, and the strips are arranged continuously or intermittently along the powder feeding direction of the second base plate 221; each strip can be configured in the same style or in different styles; for example, when a set of uniform flow guide belts 222 has 6 strips, all 6 strips can be configured as curved or diffusing straight lines; or, any one or more strips can be configured as curved, and the other strips as diffusing straight lines; the specific design style is set by the installer according to actual needs.

[0086] In some embodiments, reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the dispersing section 22 is also provided with at least one powder guiding member 223, which forms a powder guiding channel with the dispersing section 22 to control the flow of powder.

[0087] For example, the powder guide 223 is referred to as a powder guide plate in this application. The powder guide 223 is connected to the second top plate 220, and there is a certain distance between the powder guide 223 and the second bottom plate 221 (the specific distance is set by the installer according to actual needs). The set distance forms a powder guide channel to control the flow of powder. The powder guide channel provides space for the powder to fall and flow.

[0088] In some embodiments, reference Figure 16 As shown, the powder supply device 2 involved in this application also includes a powder storage section 26, which is used to receive powder conveyed by the powder guiding channel.

[0089] In actual implementation, the powder storage unit 26 is located at the end of the powder feeding direction of the powder guiding channel, for example, refer to Figure 17 As shown, referring to the installation position of the powder feeding section 21, the powder storage section 26 is located below the powder guiding channel, that is, the powder storage section 26 is located below the dispersion section 22, and there is a space between the powder storage section 26 and the dispersion section 22 to accommodate the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, so that the powder spreading device 15 can spread the powder received by the powder storage section 26 onto the forming platform 121.

[0090] In some embodiments, the powder storage section 26 may be integrally formed with the forming platform 121, or may be part of the powder bed; and the side of the powder storage section 26 used to receive powder is located on the same horizontal plane as the side of the forming platform 121 used to receive powder or the powder bed.

[0091] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the powder supply process is as follows: when the material level detection unit 24 detects a lack of powder in the powder feeding unit 21, it transmits a powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to supply powder to the powder feeding unit 21. Then, the control system 16 sets the powder supply weight and supply speed and sends a vibration signal to the vibration controller according to the set powder supply weight and supply speed. The vibration controller selects the appropriate vibration energy, frequency and time according to the vibration signal, and then controls the vibration unit 23 to vibrate. Under the action of vibration, the powder disperses from the first base plate 220 to the second base plate I221-a, forming a uniform powder on the second base plate I221-a. The powder flow, while the height of the powder flow is controlled by the powder blocking component 218, falls from the second base plate I221-b, thereby conveying the appropriate powder weight to the powder storage section 26 at an appropriate supply speed, forming a uniform and flattened powder layer on the powder storage section 26; when the material level detection section 24 detects that the powder feeding section 21 is not short of powder, it transmits a stop powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the stop powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to stop feeding powder to the powder feeding section 21, and at the same time sends a stop signal to the vibration controller and a powder spreading signal to the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The powder spreading device 15 spreads the powder received by the powder storage section 26 onto the forming platform 121 to form a powder bed 101.

[0092] In some embodiments, reference Figure 17 As shown, the powder storage unit 26 is provided with a weight detection unit 260, which is used to detect the weight of the powder received by the powder storage unit 26.

[0093] In actual implementation, the weight detection unit 260 is located at one end of the powder storage unit 26, but not on the powder receiving side of the powder storage unit 26. For example, refer to... Figure 17 As shown, referring to the installation position of the powder feeding unit 21, the weight detection unit 260 is located below the powder storage unit 26; the weight detection unit 260 can be any type of weighing sensor as long as it can detect the weight of the powder, including but not limited to capacitive weighing sensors or strain gauge weighing sensors, etc. The specific model is set by the installer according to the actual needs.

[0094] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the powder supply process is as follows: when the material level detection unit 24 detects a lack of powder in the powder feeding unit 21, it transmits a powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to supply powder to the powder feeding unit 21. Then, the control system 16 sets the powder supply weight and supply speed and sends a vibration signal to the vibration controller according to the set powder supply weight and supply speed. The vibration controller selects the appropriate vibration energy, frequency, and time according to the vibration signal, and then controls the vibration unit 23 to vibrate. Under the action of vibration, the powder disperses from the first base plate 220 to the second base plate I221-a, forming a uniform powder flow on the second base plate I221-a. At the same time, the height of the powder flow is controlled by the powder blocking component 218. The powder then falls from the second base plate I221-b, thereby conveying the appropriate powder weight to the powder storage section 26 at an appropriate supply speed, forming a uniform and flattened powder layer on the powder storage section 26. At the same time, the weight detection section 260 detects the powder weight received by the powder storage section 26 in real time. When the material level detection section 24 detects that the powder feeding section 21 is not short of powder and the powder storage section 26 has received the appropriate powder weight, it transmits a stop powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the stop powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to stop feeding powder to the powder feeding section 21, and sends a stop signal to the vibration controller and a powder spreading signal to the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The powder spreading device 15 spreads the powder received by the powder storage section 26 onto the forming platform 121 to form a powder bed 101.

[0095] In some embodiments, reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the powder supply device 2 involved in this application also includes an elastic support 27, which is used for rigid adjustment.

[0096] In actual implementation, the vibration part 23 is installed on the mounting base 20, and one end of the vibration part 23 is connected to the mounting base 20, while the other end of the vibration part 23 is connected to the first base plate 210 through the connector 230; at least one elastic support part 27 is installed between the mounting base 20 and the powder feeding part 21, and both ends of the elastic support part 27 are connected to the mounting base 20 and the powder feeding part 21 respectively; for example, in this application, two elastic support parts 27 are provided, and the elastic support parts 27 are located on both sides of the vibration part 23 respectively.

[0097] In some embodiments, reference Figure 22 As shown, the powder supply device 2 involved in this application also includes a shock-absorbing part 28, which is used to prevent the optical components included in the additive manufacturing equipment 1 from being interfered with.

[0098] In actual implementation, at least one shock absorber 28 is disposed at one end of the mounting base 20. Specifically, the shock absorber 28 can also be installed by the installer in other areas of the powder supply device 2 according to actual shock absorption requirements; for example, refer to Figure 23 As shown, this application provides two vibration damping parts 28, namely vibration damping part a280 and vibration damping part b281. Both vibration damping parts a280 and b281 are installed on the side of the mounting base 20 away from the vibration part 23 for vibration isolation, so as to protect the optical components included in the additive manufacturing equipment 1 from interference. The vibration damping part 28 can be any form of vibration damping structure as long as it can isolate vibration, including but not limited to vibration dampers, vibration isolation bases or air springs, and the specific installation is determined by the installer according to actual needs.

[0099] In some embodiments, the shock-absorbing part 28 may also be disposed between the powder supply device 2 and the forming chamber 12, and the shock-absorbing part 28 is connected to the mounting base 20 of the powder supply device 2 and the forming chamber 12 respectively, so as to prevent the optical components included in the additive manufacturing equipment 1 from being disturbed by vibration.

[0100] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the powder supply process is as follows: when the material level detection unit 24 detects that the powder feeding unit 21 is short of powder, it transmits a powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to deliver powder to the powder feeding unit 21. Then, the control system 16 sets the powder supply weight and supply speed and sends a vibration signal to the vibration controller according to the set powder supply weight and supply speed. The vibration controller selects the appropriate vibration energy, frequency and time according to the vibration signal, and then controls the vibration unit 23 to vibrate. At the same time, the vibration damper prevents the vibration unit 23 from interfering with the optical components of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. Under the action of vibration, the powder is dispersed from the first base plate 220 to the second base plate I221-a, forming a uniform powder flow on the second base plate I221-a. The powder flow height is controlled by the over-resistance component 218, so that the powder flow falls from the second base plate I221-b, thereby conveying the appropriate powder weight to the powder storage section 26 at an appropriate supply speed, forming a uniform and flattened powder layer on the powder storage section 26. At the same time, the weight detection unit 260 detects the powder weight received by the powder storage section 26 in real time. When the material level detection unit 24 detects that the powder feeding section 21 is not short of powder and the powder storage section 26 receives the appropriate powder weight, it transmits a stop powder replenishment signal to the control system 16. After receiving the stop powder replenishment signal, the control system 16 controls the powder supply system 11 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1 to stop feeding powder to the powder feeding section 21, and sends a stop signal to the vibration controller and a powder spreading signal to the powder spreading device 15 of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. The powder spreading device 15 spreads the powder received by the powder storage section 26 on the forming platform 121 to form a powder bed 101.

[0101] In some embodiments, reference Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the powder supply device 2 involved in this application further includes a morphology distribution detection unit 29, which is used to detect the morphology distribution of powder in the dispersion unit 22.

[0102] Specifically, the morphology distribution detection unit 29 can be any scanning structure as long as it can scan the morphology distribution of powder, i.e., its flattened state, including but not limited to laser scanning sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and vision sensors. The number and model of the morphology distribution detection units 29 are set by the installer according to actual needs. In this embodiment, a line laser scanner is selected. Existing line laser scanners / contour sensors can be line laser 3D cameras: a narrow and dense laser beam 290 is generated by a laser emitter, and the reflection of the laser line on the target surface is captured by a receiver. Currently, this process involves several key steps:

[0103] (1) Laser emission: The laser emitter emits a laser beam 290, which is focused into a thin beam by the optical system and irradiates the surface of the object. The laser scans the surface of the object at high speed, while the image sensor records the information of laser reflection and scattering.

[0104] (2) Reflection data processing: The receiver converts the recorded time and location information into digital signals. These digital signals are processed by a series of algorithms, including distance measurement, reconstruction of light spot coordinates and point cloud generation, to calculate the shape and distance of the dispersed region.

[0105] (3) 3D shape and position calculation: By analyzing the reflection data, the 3D shape and position of the target object are calculated. This process is called the time-of-flight method. It is based on the speed of light to calculate the distance. The reconstruction of the light spot coordinates and the generation of the point cloud combine all the measured points to generate a 3D shape model of the target.

[0106] In actual implementation, a scanning port 224 is opened at the second top plate 220 of the dispersion section 22, and the morphology distribution detection unit 29 is set above the dispersion section 22. The morphology distribution detection unit 29 scans the morphology distribution of the powder in the dispersion section 22 through the scanning port 224. Alternatively, the morphology distribution detection unit 29 can be set above the dispersion section 22 and inside the forming chamber 12, so that the morphology distribution of the powder in the dispersion section 22 can be scanned through the scanning port 224, and the morphology distribution of the powder in the forming platform 121 can also be scanned.

[0107] Therefore, in one embodiment of this application, the scanning process of the morphology distribution detection unit 29 is as follows: when the vibration unit 23 vibrates, the morphology distribution detection unit 29 scans the morphology distribution of the powder in the dispersion unit 22 in real time through the scanning port 224, and then transmits the morphology distribution of the powder to the control system 16. The control system 16 compares the received morphology distribution of the powder with a preset threshold range of the preset powder morphology distribution parameters. If it exceeds the preset threshold range, the vibration frequency and / or amplitude and / or vibration gap of the vibration unit 23 are adjusted until it is within the preset threshold range, thereby improving the uniformity of the powder conveyed by the dispersion unit 22.

[0108] During operation of the vibration unit 23, the morphology distribution detection unit 29 scans the morphology distribution of the powder in the dispersion unit 22 in real time, and the control system 16 adjusts the vibration parameters in real time according to the morphology distribution of the powder and the preset morphology distribution parameter threshold.

[0109] When the morphology distribution detection unit 29 is respectively installed above the dispersion unit 22 and inside the forming chamber 12, it can also scan the powder morphology distribution of the forming platform 121. In this way, the powder morphology distribution of the forming platform 121 is transmitted to the control system 16. The control system 16 compares the received powder morphology distribution with a preset morphology distribution parameter threshold range. If it exceeds the preset morphology distribution parameter threshold range, the vibration frequency and / or amplitude and / or vibration gap of the vibration unit 23 are adjusted until it is within the preset threshold range, thereby improving the uniformity of the powder conveyed by the dispersion unit 22.

[0110] As mentioned above, the components of this application embodiment can be considered as part of the additive manufacturing equipment 1, and the parts it covers are also the parts of the additive manufacturing equipment 1. Therefore, this application embodiment also protects an additive manufacturing equipment 1, which, in addition to covering... Figure 1 In addition to the components shown, this application also covers components provided in any embodiment of the present application.

[0111] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A powder supply device, characterized in that, include: The powder feeding section (21) is provided with at least one feed port (216) that connects to the powder supply interface (217); The dispersion section (22) is connected to the powder feeding section (21); A vibration section (23) is used to provide vibrational force acting on the powder feeding section (21), so that the powder feeding section (21) uniformly conveys the powder flow through the dispersion section (22); and The material level detection unit (24) is used to detect the amount of powder in the powder feeding unit (21).

2. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The powder feeding part (21) is located in the forming chamber (12) of the additive manufacturing equipment (1), and the plane of the powder feeding part (21) is at a preset angle to the plane of the forming platform (121) of the additive manufacturing equipment (1), the preset angle range being -45° to 45°.

3. The powder supply device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The vibration section (23) uses an electromagnetic vibrator to provide vibration force to the powder feeding section (21), so that the powder feeding section (21) can uniformly convey the powder flow through the dispersion section (22).

4. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The powder feeding section (21) is provided with at least one powder blocking element (218), and the powder blocking element (218) is disposed between the powder feeding section (21) and the dispersion section (22), and a dispersion conveying channel for controlling the powder flow height is formed between the powder blocking element (218) and the dispersion section (22).

5. The powder supply device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dispersing section (22) is provided with at least one powder guiding element (223), and a powder guiding channel for controlling the flow of powder is formed between the powder guiding element (223) and the dispersing section (22), and the powder guiding channel is connected to the dispersing and conveying channel.

6. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dispersion section (22) is provided with a uniform flow guide belt (222) for uniformly conveying powder flow. Several strips of the uniform flow guide belt (222) are arranged in an array along the powder feeding direction of the dispersion section (22).

7. The powder supply device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The several strips of the uniform flow guide belt (222) are arranged continuously or intermittently along the powder feeding direction of the dispersion section (22), and at least some of the strips of the uniform flow guide belt (222) are set as curved and / or diffusing straight lines.

8. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection end of the material level detection unit (24) is at least partially inserted into the powder feeding unit (21).

9. The powder supply device according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The powder storage section (26) is used to receive powder conveyed by the powder guiding channel.

10. The powder feeding device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The powder storage section (26) is provided with a weight detection section (260), which is located at one end of the powder storage section (26) and is used to detect the weight of the powder received by the powder storage section (26).

11. The powder supply device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The powder storage section (26) has one side that receives powder that is on the same horizontal plane as the forming platform or powder bed of the additive manufacturing equipment (1).

12. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Mounting base (20); The elastic support part (27) is connected at both ends to the mounting base (20) and the powder feeding part (21) respectively, and is used for rigid adjustment.

13. The powder supply device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The vibration part (23) is disposed at the bottom of the powder feeding part (21), and one end of the vibration part (23) is connected to the mounting base (20), and the other end of the vibration part (23) is connected to the powder feeding part (21) through the connector (230).

14. The powder feeding device according to claim 12, characterized in that, Also includes: A damping part (28) is provided at one end of the mounting base (20) to prevent interference with the optical components included in the additive manufacturing equipment (1).

15. The powder supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A morphology distribution detection unit (29) is used to detect the morphology distribution of powder in the dispersion section (22). The morphology distribution detection unit (29) employs at least one of a laser scanning sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a vision sensor.

16. An additive manufacturing apparatus (1) comprising the powder supply device according to any one of claims 1-15.

17. The additive manufacturing equipment according to claim 16, characterized in that, The powder supply device is installed inside the forming chamber of the additive manufacturing equipment.

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