Feeding device and 3D printer

Abstract

The application discloses a feeding device and a 3D printer, and the feeding device comprises a first feeding port, a second feeding port, a first channel, a second channel, a first discharging port and a second discharging port; the first feeding port is communicated with the first discharging port through the first channel; the first feeding port is also communicated with the second discharging port through the first channel; the second feeding port is communicated with the first discharging port through the second channel, and the second feeding port is also communicated with the second discharging port through the second channel. The wire material conveyed by the first feeding port of the feeding device can be output from the first discharging port or the second discharging port, and the wire material conveyed by the second feeding port can be output from the first discharging port or the second discharging port, so that the feeding device can realize intercommunication between multiple feeding ports and multiple nozzles of the printer when the feeding device is used with the double-nozzle printer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of 3D printing technology, and more particularly to a feeding device and a 3D printer. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of 3D printing technology, a feeding device is needed to deliver filament to the nozzle of the 3D printer.

[0003] Currently, the feeding device has multiple inlets and multiple outlets, with each inlet and outlet corresponding to the other. The wire material that enters the feeding device through the inlet extends out through the outlet corresponding to that inlet, making the feeding device inflexible in conveying wire material. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a feeding device and a 3D printer that can transport filament from any inlet to any outlet.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a feeding device, which includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first channel, a second channel, a first outlet, and a second outlet;

[0006] The first feed inlet is connected to the first discharge outlet via the first channel; the first feed inlet is also connected to the second discharge outlet via the first channel.

[0007] The second inlet is connected to the first outlet via a second channel, and the second inlet is also connected to the second outlet via a second channel.

[0008] In some feasible implementations, the feeding device also includes a body, with a first feed port and a second feed port located at one end of the body, and a first discharge port and a second discharge port located at the other end of the body. The first feed port and the second feed port are connected to the first discharge port and the second discharge port through a channel inside the body.

[0009] In some feasible implementations, the first feed port and the second feed port are arranged along a first direction, and the first discharge port and the second discharge port are arranged along a second direction, with the first direction intersecting the second direction.

[0010] In some feasible implementations, the first channel includes a first main channel and two first branch channels. One end of the first main channel is connected to the first feed inlet, and the other end of the first main channel is connected to the intersection of the two first branch channels near the first feed inlet.

[0011] One of the two first branch channels connects the first inlet and the first outlet, and the other of the two first branch channels connects the first inlet and the second outlet; and / or

[0012] The second channel includes a second main channel and two second branch channels. One end of the second main channel is connected to the second feed inlet, and the other end of the second main channel is connected to the intersection of the two second branch channels near the second feed inlet.

[0013] One of the two second branch channels connects the second inlet and the first outlet, and the other of the two second branch channels connects the second inlet and the second outlet.

[0014] In some feasible implementations, the axes of the two first branch channels are at least partially coplanar, and the axes of the two second branch channels are at least partially coplanar.

[0015] In some feasible implementations, the feeding device includes a main body and a routing module, with the routing module connected to the main body; a first feed inlet, a second feed inlet, a first channel, a second channel, a first discharge outlet, and a second discharge outlet are disposed on the main body; the first channel includes two first branch channels, and the second channel includes two second branch channels;

[0016] A routing module is installed at the intersection of the two first branch channels; and / or

[0017] A routing module is installed at the intersection of the two second branch channels.

[0018] In some feasible implementations, the routing module includes a drive unit and a guide plate, with the guide plate disposed in a first channel and / or a second channel, and the drive unit used to drive the guide plate to swing.

[0019] In some feasible implementations, the drive element is positioned outside the intersection of the two first branch channels; and / or

[0020] The drive unit is located on the outside of the intersection of the two second branch channels.

[0021] In some feasible implementations, the driving component includes an iron core and a coil, with the coil wound around the iron core. A guide plate is connected to a magnet. When the coil is in operation, the iron core has a first end and a second end with different magnetic properties, and the magnet is rotatably positioned between the first end and the second end.

[0022] In some feasible implementations, the routing module further includes a first limiting part and a second limiting part, the limiting part restricting the range of the guide plate's swing; when the first limiting part restricts the guide plate's swing, the guide plate's surface near the first branch channel or the second branch channel makes the wire material flush or parallel to the direction of the second outlet; and / or

[0023] When the second limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the guide plate approaches the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel so that the wire is flush or parallel to the direction of the first discharge port.

[0024] In some feasible implementations, when a positive current is applied to the coil in the working state, the magnet is oriented toward one of the first end or the second end, and the guide plate contacts the first limiting part to restrict the movement of the guide plate.

[0025] When a reverse current is applied to the coil while it is in operation, the magnet is directed toward either the first end or the second end, and the guide plate contacts the second limiting part to restrict the movement of the guide plate.

[0026] In some feasible implementations, the guide plate is elongated or trapezoidal, connected to the magnet along its length, and the swing angle of the guide plate ranges from 10 degrees to 30 degrees.

[0027] In some feasible implementations, the limiting part is connected to the first channel and / or the second channel. The limiting part includes a recessed area for accommodating a portion of the guide plate. When the first limiting part restricts the swinging of the guide plate, the recessed area accommodates a portion of the guide plate. The guide plate is close to the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel, and the surface of the guide plate is flush with or parallel to the second discharge port; and / or

[0028] When the second limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the recessed area accommodates part of the guide plate, the guide plate is close to the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel, and the surface of the guide plate is flush or parallel to the direction of the first discharge port.

[0029] In some feasible implementations, the feeding device also includes a first discharge channel and a second discharge channel. The first discharge channel includes a third main channel and two third branch channels, and the second discharge channel includes a fourth main channel and two fourth branch channels. The first branch channel and the second branch channel correspond one-to-one.

[0030] A first branch channel and a corresponding second branch channel are respectively connected to two third branch channels, and the two third branch channels are connected to the end of the third main channel away from the first discharge port;

[0031] Another first branch channel and the corresponding second branch channel are connected to the fourth branch channel respectively, and the two fourth branch channels are connected to the end of the fourth main channel away from the second discharge port.

[0032] In some feasible implementations, the axes of the first main channel and the two first branch channels are located in the first plane, the axes of the second main channel and the two second branch channels are located in the second plane, the axes of the third main channel and the two third branch channels are located in the third plane, and the axes of the fourth main channel and the two fourth branch channels are located in the fourth plane.

[0033] The first plane intersects with the third plane, and the second plane intersects with the fourth plane.

[0034] In some feasible implementations, the first and second planes are parallel, and the third and fourth planes are parallel.

[0035] In some feasible implementations, the third and fourth branch channels are arranged in a ring, with one set of branch channels at least partially enclosing the other set of branch channels.

[0036] Secondly, this application provides a 3D printer, which includes the feeding device as described in the first aspect.

[0037] The feeding device provided in this application has independent first and second inlets, as well as independent first and second outlets. The first inlet is connected to both the first and second outlets via a first channel, and the second inlet is connected to both the first and second outlets via a second channel. This allows the wire fed through the first inlet to be output from either the first or second outlet, and vice versa, eliminating the need for the user to configure a separate feed source for each outlet. Furthermore, when used with a dual-head printer, the feeding device provided in this application enables communication between multiple inlets and multiple printheads of the printer, improving the application flexibility of the feeding device. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the background art, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application or the background art will be described below.

[0039] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a feeding device provided in this application;

[0040] Figure 2 Side view of the feeding device provided in this application;

[0041] Figure 3 Top view of the feeding device provided in this application;

[0042] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the location of the routing module provided in this application;

[0043] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the routing module provided in this application;

[0044] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the connections of each channel within the feeding device provided in this application;

[0045] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of each channel within the feeding device provided in this application;

[0046] Figure 8 Another structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in this application;

[0047] Figure 9 Another structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in this application;

[0048] Figure 10 Another structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in this application.

[0049] Attached Figure Captions

[0050] 101-First feed inlet, 102-Second feed inlet, 103-First discharge outlet, 104-Second discharge outlet, 105-Body body, 106-First channel, 107-Second channel, 108-First main channel, 109-Second main channel, 110-First branch channel, 111-Second branch channel, 112-Third main channel, 113-Fourth main channel, 114-Route selection module, 1139-First limiting part, 1140-Second limiting part, 1141-Driver, 1142-Guide plate, 1144-Magnet, 1145-Iron core, 1146-Coil, 1147-First end, 1148-Second end, 117-Third branch channel, 118-Fourth branch channel, 119-First discharge channel, 120-Second discharge channel. Detailed Implementation

[0051] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Please see Figure 1This application provides a feeding device, which includes a body 105, a first inlet 101, a second inlet 102, a first channel 106, a second channel 107, a first outlet 103, and a second outlet 104. The first inlet 101 is connected to the first outlet 103 through the first channel 106; the first inlet 101 is also connected to the second outlet 104 through the first channel 106. The second inlet 102 is connected to the first outlet 103 through the second channel 107, and the second inlet 102 is also connected to the second outlet 104 through the second channel 107. In the most basic configuration, existing automatic 3D printing hoppers can have multiple hopper inlets and one hopper outlet. The multiple hopper inlets correspond one-to-one with multiple material trays, or the hopper can accommodate multiple material trays and provide one outlet for each material tray, and then use a multi-channel to converge the multiple hopper outlets into one or more hopper outlets. However, when these types of feed hoppers are used with dual-head or multi-head printers, feeding problems will occur. Taking a dual-head printer without a power-assisted motor as an example, if feed hopper 1 is connected to the left printhead and feed hopper 3 is connected to the right printhead, the feed hopper will be unable to feed feed from feed hopper 1 into the right printhead due to the fixed connection of the feed tube. Taking a dual-head printer with a power-assisted motor as an example, multiple sets of feed lines can be set in one feed hopper. If the outlet of feed hopper A is connected to the left printhead and the outlet of feed hopper B is connected to the right printhead, feeding feed from feed hopper A into the right printhead will also be impossible. The feeding device provided in this application has an independent first feed port 101 and a second feed port 102, as well as an independent first discharge port 103 and a second discharge port 104. The first feed port 101 is connected to the first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 104 through a first channel 106, and the second feed port 102 is connected to the first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 104 through a second channel 107. This allows the wire material fed by the first feed port 101 to be output from either the first discharge port or the second discharge port, and the wire material fed by the second feed port to be output from either the first discharge port or the second discharge port. The user does not need to configure a corresponding feed source for each discharge port separately.

[0053] Furthermore, the feeding device provided in this application, when used in conjunction with a dual-head printer, enables communication between multiple feed ports and multiple printheads of the printer, solving the feeding problem between the 3D printing hopper and the dual-head printer. Optionally, this application can have multiple feed ports and discharge ports, the specific number of which is designed according to user needs. For example, four feed ports and three discharge ports can be set, allowing filament from any of the four feed ports to be fed out from any of the three discharge ports. Fiber from two of the remaining three feed ports can be selectively fed out from the remaining two discharge ports as needed, with the filament in the last feed port remaining unused. Optionally, the feeding device in this application supports multi-material printing, allowing users to simultaneously load different filaments into two feed ports, such as filaments of the same material but different colors, or filaments of completely different materials. Since the filament from each feed port can lead to two discharge ports, the printer control system can more flexibly manage filament switching. It is understood that the feeding device in the application can be part of a hopper or printer, or it can be a separate device, and this application does not limit this.

[0054] In some feasible implementations, before the wire is fed into the feeding device from the first or second feed port, a power unit is required to feed the wire into the feeding device. During material change, a power unit is required to pull the wire back to the hopper or tray and feed the new wire back into the feeding device. The power unit can be a drive device such as a motor.

[0055] The first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102 are located at one end of the main body 105, and the first discharge outlet 103 and the second discharge outlet 104 are located at the other end of the main body 105. The first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102 are connected to the first discharge outlet 103 and the second discharge outlet 104 through channels within the main body. By setting the feed inlets and discharge outlets at opposite ends of the main body 105, the wire entering from the first feed inlet 101 is conveyed through a first channel 106 of a certain length to the first discharge outlet 103 and the second discharge outlet 104, and the wire entering from the second feed inlet 102 is conveyed through a second channel 107 of a certain length to the first discharge outlet 103 and the second discharge outlet 104. This extends the path of the wire within the feeding device, making feeding smoother. For environmentally sensitive wires, such as certain PETG and TPU wires, these wires undergo a longer deformation process from being wound into the feed inlet to being finally conveyed to the discharge outlet, thus providing cushioning. By concentrating the first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102 at one end, the initial feeding process of the wire in this area becomes relatively concentrated and orderly. This reduces the "dwelling" time of the wire in the vicinity of the first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102, and lowers the possibility of direct damage to the wire due to feed inlet design, surrounding environment, or improper operation.

[0056] The first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102 are arranged along a first direction, and the first discharge outlet 103 and the second discharge outlet 104 are arranged along a second direction, the first direction and the second direction intersecting. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 In some feasible implementations, the first direction can be the Y-axis direction, and the second direction can be the Z-axis direction, with the first and second directions intersecting. In the projection direction of the feeding device's inlet direction, the first and second inlets are located midway between the lines connecting the first and second outlets, resulting in a smaller bending angle between the first and second channels and less friction during filament transport. The inlets and outlets are arranged in different directions, and their intersection allows the filament to change its transport direction after entering the feeding device, improving the adaptability of the feeding device. For example, in scenarios requiring multi-angle printing or complex structure printing, changes in the inlet and outlet directions ensure that the filament is transported to the printhead in a more flexible manner. By changing the inlet and outlet directions, the filament can be transported to the printhead more efficiently. During printing, if the filament needs to enter the printing area simultaneously from multiple directions, the feeding device provided in this application can reduce the length of the filament transport path, reduce filament transport time loss, and improve overall printing efficiency.

[0057] Please see Figure 1The first channel 106 includes a first main channel 108 and two first branch channels 110. One end of the first main channel 108 is connected to the first feed inlet 101, and the other end of the first main channel 108 is connected to the intersection of the two first branch channels 110 near the first feed inlet 101. One of the two first branch channels 110 connects the first feed inlet 101 and the first discharge outlet 103, and the other of the two first branch channels 110 connects the first feed inlet 101 and the second discharge outlet 104. And / or the second channel 107 includes a second main channel 109 and two second branch channels 111. One end of the second main channel 109 is connected to the second feed inlet 102, and the other end of the second main channel 109 is connected to the intersection of the two second branch channels 111 near the second feed inlet 102. One of the two second branch channels 111 connects the second feed inlet 102 and the first discharge outlet 103, and the other of the two second branch channels 111 connects the second feed inlet 102 and the second discharge outlet 104. Both the first channel 106 and the second channel 107 have one main channel and two branch channels. The first main channel is connected to the first feed inlet, and the second main channel is connected to the second feed inlet. The two first branch channels and the two second branch channels can be staggered. One end of the two first branch channels converges and connects to the first main channel, and the other end of the two first branch channels connects to the two discharge outlets respectively. One end of the two second branch channels converges and connects to the second main channel, and the other end of the two second branch channels connects to the two discharge outlets respectively. The first and second main channels are the initial collection areas for the wire material after it enters from the feed inlet. The wire material first enters the first and second main channels, and then is diverted to different discharge outlets as needed through the first and second branch channels. This "collection before diversion" mode allows one feed inlet to efficiently supply two discharge outlets simultaneously or at different times. Specifically, the first feed inlet 101 directly supplies the first output outlet 103 through a first branch channel 110, and simultaneously supplies the second output outlet 104 through another first branch channel 110 (and vice versa for the second feed inlet 102). This design greatly enhances the flexibility of the feeding strategy; for example, depending on printing needs, the first feed inlet can simultaneously supply material to two printheads connected to the first and second output outlets. Compared to the structural complexity and potential stress concentration at connection points that may result from direct connections of multiple independent channels, the design of the main channel and branch channels provides a more robust internal structure. The main channel, as the primary material path, can be designed with a relatively large diameter, helping to ensure the initial momentum and smoothness of material transport and reducing the risk of material compression, blockage, or entanglement due to excessively narrow or bent channels. The branch channels can precisely guide the material flow as needed.Optionally, there can be multiple first branch channels and multiple second branch channels. Multiple first branch channels 110 and multiple second branch channels 111 allow various types of filament to be conveyed from the inlet to the outlet. The specific number can be adjusted according to the different needs of the user's connected printer. In some feasible implementations, there can be multiple inlets, ensuring that filament from multiple hoppers can be conveyed to the outlet through multiple inlets, facilitating filament switching during printing and improving the operational flexibility of the feeding device.

[0058] The axes of the two first branch channels 110 are at least partially coplanar, and the axes of the two second branch channels 111 are at least partially coplanar. It should be noted that the axes of the first and second branch channels mentioned in this application are lines connecting the center points of each cross-section of the branch channel. If the two branch channels are not on the same plane, they often need to extend at different heights or depths after branching from the main channel, which may cause the material to experience more complex paths and more bends when turning into its respective branch channel. The coplanar design of this application ensures that the material maintains in-plane movement at least initially along its path when branching from the main channel into the branch channel, reducing unnecessary spatial turns and lowering the risk of material compression, deformation, blockage, or entanglement due to excessive bends or sharp angles, thus helping to ensure stable and smooth material transport.

[0059] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 The feeding device also includes a routing module 114, which is connected to the main body 105. A first feed inlet 101, a second feed inlet 102, a first channel 106, a second channel 107, a first discharge outlet 103, and a second discharge outlet 104 are disposed on the main body 105. The first channel 106 includes two first branch channels 110, and the second channel 107 includes two second branch channels 111. The routing module 114 is disposed at the intersection of the two first branch channels 110, and / or at the intersection of the two second branch channels 111. Through the routing module 114, which is movably connected to the main body 105, the user's or printer's control system can dynamically change which feed inlet the wire flows to which discharge outlet during or before printing. For example, the wire can be selectively fed from the first feed inlet 101 to the first discharge outlet 103 or the second discharge outlet 104. Similarly, the second feed inlet 102 can selectively lead to either discharge outlet, greatly increasing the flexibility of the feeding process. Compared to disassembling and replacing the entire tray or using a complex switching mechanism, the routing module 114 typically only requires a simple action, such as rotating, sliding, or pressing a button / sending an electrical signal, to switch the wire path, reducing switching time, improving printing efficiency, and reducing operational complexity.

[0060] Please see Figure 4 The routing module 114 can be located at the intersection of branch channels. The routing module 114 includes a drive component 1141 and a guide plate 1142. The guide plate 1142 is located in the first channel 106 and / or the second channel 107. The drive component 1141 drives the guide plate 1142 to swing. The drive component 1141 is located outside the intersection of two first branch channels 110; and / or outside the intersection of two second branch channels 111. By driving the guide plate 1142 to swing through the drive component 1141, the wire material can be actively and quickly switched to enter the first branch channel 110, the second branch channel 111, or other designated branch channels. Users can manually control or use buttons to control the drive component 1141 to swing the guide plate before or during the feeding device's operation to change the wire material's outlet, achieving automated or semi-automated path selection. The drive unit 1141 is positioned on the outside of the junction, which makes it easy for the user to access the drive unit 1141 and can isolate the drive unit 1141 from the conveyed wire material, reducing the internal space and avoiding impact and contamination on the wire material, thereby improving the reliability of the drive unit 1141.

[0061] Please see Figure 5The driving component includes an iron core 1145 and a coil 1146, with the coil 1146 wound around the iron core 1145. A guide plate 1142 is connected to a magnet 1144. In the working state, the iron core 1145 has a first end 1147 and a second end 1148 with opposite magnetic properties. The magnet 1144 is rotatably positioned between the first end 1147 and the second end 1148. When a forward current is applied to the coil in the working state, the magnet faces either the first end 1147 or the second end 1148, and the guide plate contacts a first limiting portion 1139 to restrict the movement of the guide plate. When a reverse current is applied to the coil in the working state, the magnet faces the other end 1147 or the second end 1148, and the guide plate 1142 contacts a second limiting portion 1140 to restrict the movement of the guide plate 1142. In some feasible embodiments, the iron core 1145 has a structure with both ends facing the same direction, such as a U-shaped iron core or a V-shaped iron core. Magnet 1144 is movably connected to body 105 located between the two ends of iron core 1145, for example, by hinge or shaft connection, allowing guide plate 1142 to swing relative to iron core 1145. Coil 1146 is connected to a control circuit, and the control system controls the swing direction of guide plate 1142 by controlling the direction of current flowing through coil 1146 to control the swing of magnet 1144. Forward current can be clockwise, and reverse current can be counterclockwise. For example, one end of magnet 1144 is the N pole. When the wire is input from the first feed port 101, a clockwise current is applied to coil 1146. After the first end 1147 of iron core 1145 is energized, it becomes the S pole, and after the second end 1148 is energized, it becomes the N pole. Magnet 1144 is attracted by magnetic force and swings upward, thereby causing guide plate 1142 to swing upward. When guide plate 1142 swings upward to the first limit part 1139, magnet 1144 is facing the second end 1148. Guide plate 1142 and the branch channel in the first branch channel that is connected to the second discharge port are then connected. With the surface flush, the wire is fed into the second outlet. A clockwise and counterclockwise current is applied to the coil 1146. After the first end 1147 of the iron core 1145 is energized, it becomes the N pole, and after the second end 1148 is energized, it becomes the S pole. The magnet 1144 is repelled by the magnetic force and swings downward, thereby causing the guide plate 1142 to swing downward. When the guide plate 1142 swings downward to the second limiting part 1140, the magnet faces the first end 1147. The guide plate 1142 is flush with the surface of the branch channel in the first branch channel that is connected to the first outlet, and the wire is fed into the first outlet.

[0062] Please see Figure 4The routing module also includes a first limiting part 1139 and a second limiting part 1140. The limiting parts restrict the swing range of the guide plate 1142. When the first limiting part 1139 restricts the swing of the guide plate, the guide plate approaches the surface of the first branch channel 110 or the second branch channel 111 of 1142 so that the wire is aligned or parallel to the direction of the second outlet 104; and / or when the second limiting part 1140 restricts the swing of the guide plate 1142, the guide plate 1142 approaches the surface of the first branch channel 110 or the second branch channel 111 so that the wire is aligned or parallel to the direction of the first outlet 103. The swing angle of the guide plate 1142 is between 10 degrees and 30 degrees. Both the first channel 106 and the second channel 107 are equipped with a routing module. When the wire enters the first channel 106 from the first feed port 101, the guide plate 1142 swings upward to the first limiting part 1139, and the guide plate 1142 approaches the surface of the first branch channel 110 connected to the second discharge port 104, and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, so that the wire is conveyed to the second discharge port 104. When the guide plate 1142 swings downward to the second limiting part 1140, the guide plate 1142 approaches the surface of the first branch channel 110 connected to the first discharge port 103, and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, so that the wire is conveyed to the first discharge port. The wire enters the second channel 107 from the second inlet 102. When the guide plate 1142 swings upward to the first limiting part 1139, the guide plate 1142 approaches the surface of the second branch channel 111 connected to the second outlet 104, and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, allowing the wire to be conveyed to the second outlet 104. When the guide plate 1142 swings downward to the second limiting part 1140, the guide plate 1142 approaches the surface of the second branch channel 111 connected to the first outlet 103, and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, allowing the wire to be conveyed to the first outlet 103. The fact that the surface of the wire is flush or parallel to the feeding direction reduces the resistance to the wire flow, allowing the wire to pass through the branch channel more smoothly and improving conveying efficiency. The fact that the surface of the guide plate 1142 is flush or parallel to the feeding direction prevents excessive friction between the wire and the guide plate 1142 when turning or changing direction, reducing wire wear and ensuring wire quality. In some feasible embodiments, the guide plate 1142 can be a thin strip or trapezoidal plate, such as 1mm-2mm thick. The length and width of the guide plate 1142 are determined according to the diameter of the wire and the channel size. Lugs or holes for mounting the rotating shaft are provided on both sides of the guide plate 1142. The wire of the guide plate 1142 can be a material with good wear resistance and a low coefficient of friction, such as nylon, polyoxymethylene, polycarbonate, or polypropylene.

[0063] The limiting part is connected to the first channel 106 and / or the second channel 107. The limiting part includes a recessed area for accommodating a portion of the guide plate. When the first limiting part 1139 restricts the swing of the guide plate 1142, the recessed area accommodates a portion of the guide plate 1142. The guide plate 1142 is close to the surface of the first branch channel 110 or the second branch channel 111, and the surface of the guide plate 1142 is flush with or parallel to the second discharge port 104. And / or when the second limiting part 1140 restricts the swing of the guide plate 1142, the recessed area accommodates a portion of the guide plate 1142. The guide plate 1142 is close to the surface of the first branch channel 110 or the second branch channel 111, and the surface of the guide plate 1142 is flush with or parallel to the direction of the first discharge port 103. In some feasible embodiments, the wire enters from the first feed port 101: the guide plate 1142 swings upward to the first limiting part 1139, and the recessed area of ​​the first limiting part 1139 located above the inner surface of the channel accommodates the guide plate 1142, so that the guide plate 1142 is close to the surface of the first branch channel 110 communicating with the second discharge port and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, so that the wire is conveyed to the second discharge port; the guide plate 1142 swings downward to the second limiting part 1140, and the recessed area of ​​the second limiting part 1140 located on the lower surface of the channel accommodates the guide plate, so that the guide plate 1142 is close to the surface of the first branch channel 110 communicating with the first discharge port and is flush or parallel to the feeding direction, so that the wire is conveyed to the first discharge port. The wire enters through the second feed port 102: the guide plate 1142 swings upward to its limit position, and the recessed area above the inner surface of the channel accommodates the guide plate, causing the guide plate 1142 to approach the surface of the second branch channel 111 connected to the second discharge port and be flush with or parallel to the feeding direction, thus conveying the wire to the second discharge port; the guide plate 1142 then swings downward to its limit position, and the recessed area below the channel accommodates the guide plate, causing the guide plate 1142 to approach the surface of the second branch channel 111 connected to the first discharge port and be flush with or parallel to the feeding direction, thus conveying the wire to the first discharge port. The recessed area provides a clear positioning reference for the guide plate 1142, ensuring that the guide plate 1142 is more precisely flush with or parallel to the feeding direction when swinging to its limit position. Compared with a simple limit stop, the recessed area can more precisely control the position of the guide plate 1142, reducing positioning deviations caused by the edge shape, manufacturing errors, or wear of the guide plate 1142. When a portion of the guide plate 1142 enters the recessed area, the sidewalls of the recessed area can provide more stable support and limiting, preventing the guide plate 1142 from shifting or rebounding when subjected to wire impact or vibration. The recessed area can be designed inside the limiting part to match the swing trajectory of the guide plate 1142, thereby achieving more precise limiting without increasing the overall size of the routing module 114.

[0064] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some feasible embodiments, the feeding device further includes a first discharge channel 119 and a second discharge channel 120. The first discharge channel 119 includes a third main channel 112 and two third branch channels 117. The second discharge channel 120 includes a fourth main channel 113 and two fourth branch channels. The first branch channels 110 and the second branch channels 111 correspond one-to-one. One first branch channel 110 and its corresponding second branch channel 111 are respectively connected to the two third branch channels 117. The two third branch channels 117 are connected to the end of the third main channel 112 away from the first discharge port 103. The other first branch channel 110 and its corresponding second branch channel 111 are respectively connected to the fourth branch channel 118. The two fourth branch channels 118 are connected to the end of the fourth main channel 113 away from the second discharge port 104. After the wire enters from the first inlet 101, it selects to enter one of the two first branch channels 110. Similarly, after the wire enters from the second inlet 102, it selects to enter one of the two second branch channels 111. A routing module 114, located at the intersection of two first branch channels 110 near the first feed inlet 101 and two second branch channels 111 near the second feed inlet 102, determines the branch channel feed inlet from which the wire enters. For example, one wire can be selected from each of the first feed inlet 101 and the second feed inlet 102 simultaneously and fed into the third main channel 112 and the fourth main channel 113 respectively, or only one wire from one feed inlet can be selected and fed into one of the main channels. In some feasible embodiments, this application supports the following operating states: State 1: Wire flows from the first feed inlet 101 -> first branch channel 110 -> third branch channel 117 -> third main channel 112 -> first discharge outlet 103. State 2: Wire flows from the second feed inlet 102 -> corresponding second branch channel 111 -> another third branch channel 117 -> third main channel 112 -> first discharge outlet 103. State 3: The wire material flows from the first inlet 101 -> another first branch channel 110 -> fourth branch channel 118 -> fourth main channel 113 -> second outlet 104. State 4: The wire material flows from the second inlet 102 -> the corresponding second branch channel 111 -> another fourth branch channel 118 -> fourth main channel 113 -> second outlet 104. Through combined control, these four basic states and possible pause / blockage states can be achieved. By controlling the on / off state of a few branch channels, the direction change of the wire material from two different inlets to two different outlets is realized. Compared to the complex system that requires independent control of each inlet to each outlet, the feeding device improved in this application operates more efficiently and simply.

[0065] The axes of the first main channel 108 and the two first branch channels 110 are located in the first plane; the axes of the second main channel 109 and the two second branch channels 111 are located in the second plane; the axes of the third main channel 112 and the two third branch channels 117 are located in the third plane; and the axes of the fourth main channel 113 and the two fourth branch channels 118 are located in the fourth plane. The first and third planes intersect, and the second and fourth planes intersect. The first and second planes are parallel, and the third and fourth planes are parallel. In some feasible embodiments, the third plane containing the third branch channel 117 is perpendicular to the first plane containing the first branch channel 110, and the fourth plane containing the fourth branch channel 118 is perpendicular to the second plane containing the second branch channel 111. This makes the internal structure of the feeding device more compact and easier to assemble. The overall conveying path of the wire material is a combination of two sets of planes, resulting in a simple path with low resistance. The path traversed during wire material conveying is optimal. A pair of corresponding first branch channels 110 and second branch channels 111 are connected to the third main channel 112 via two third branch channels 117, and another pair of corresponding first branch channels 110 and second branch channels 111 are connected to the third main channel 112 via two third branch channels 117. For example, the wire material first enters from the first feed port 101 and the second feed port 102, flowing to the two first branch channels 110 located on the first plane and the two second branch channels 111 located on the second plane. Then, the wire material from the pair of corresponding first branch channels 110 and second branch channels 111 is fed into the two third branch channels 117 located on the third plane, and the wire material from the other pair of corresponding first branch channels 110 and second branch channels 111 is fed into the two fourth branch channels 118 located on the fourth plane. Finally, the two third branch channels 117 guide the wire material to the third main channel 112, and the two fourth branch channels 118 guide the wire material to the fourth main channel 113. By setting the third and fourth planes as planes intersecting the first and second planes, and arranging the first and second planes in parallel, as well as the third and fourth planes in parallel, three-dimensional space is utilized more effectively, resulting in a more compact channel layout. This is especially beneficial in space-constrained applications, avoiding excessive intersections or overlaps of different paths within the plane and reducing structural complexity. This structure also allows the printer system to flexibly combine different input sources and output paths. For example, it can be selected that both the filament from the first feed port 101 and the second feed port 102 are guided to the third main channel 112 (through their respective first branch channels 110 and third branch channels 117), or both are guided to the fourth main channel 113 (through their respective second branch channels 111 and fourth branch channels 118), or a mixture of these directions can be used as needed. See also Figure 8 There can be multiple third branch channels 117 and multiple fourth branch channels 118, and multiple third branch channels 117 and multiple fourth branch channels 118 can transport the wire material from multiple feed ports to the discharge port.

[0066] Please see Figure 9 There can be multiple feed inlets. The third branch channel 117 and the fourth branch channel 118 are arranged in a ring. One set of branch channels in the third branch channel 117 and the fourth branch channel 118 at least partially encloses the other set of branch channels. One first branch channel 110 and its corresponding second branch channel 111 are connected to the third main channel 112 through the third branch channel 117; another first branch channel 110 and its corresponding second branch channel 111 are connected to the fourth main channel 113 through the fourth branch channel 118. Two discharge outlets are located in the center. The two first branch channels 110 and the two second branch channels 111 are arranged in mutually parallel planes. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10 The system can have multiple feed inlets arranged in a ring. A routing module 114 is positioned at the intersection of the feed inlets and the discharge outlet. The routing module 114 divides the wire material input to the feed inlets into two paths: one closer to the center of the ring and one further away. A third branch channel 117 is arranged in a ring or near-ring around the central area. The path closer to the center connects to the third branch channel 117 and converges to the first discharge outlet. The branch channel further away connects to the fourth branch channel and converges to the second discharge outlet. This centralized layout allows for a greater number of routing modules and ensures the miniaturization of the feeding device. For example, a rotary valve can simultaneously control the opening and closing of the inner and outer ring channels, or each routing module can be equipped with a guide plate to switch the inner and outer ring paths of each feed inlet. The routing mechanism only needs to move around the center point to affect both discharge directions. The ring layout allows for the arrangement of two discharge branch channels within a relatively concentrated space, making the transition area from the branch channel to the main channel more compact, and potentially resulting in a smaller overall structure.

[0067] In some feasible implementations, the guide plate 1142 can be configured in multiple directions. For example, when there are multiple feed inlets and outlets, the guide plate 1142 is motor-controlled. The motor controls different rotation angles of the guide plate to control the conveying of the wire material from the feed inlet to the outlet. For example, when there are three outlets, the drive motor has three speeds. When the motor is in speed one, the guide plate is controlled to block the first and second outlets, so that the wire material is output from the third outlet. When the motor is in speed two, the guide plate is controlled to block the first and third outlets, so that the wire material is output from the second outlet. When the motor is in speed three, the guide plate is controlled to block the third and second outlets, so that the wire material is output from the first outlet. This can be connected to a multi-nozzle printer, such as a printer with a replaceable printhead, to achieve arbitrary matching of wire material and feed trough.

[0068] The 3D printer provided in this application includes at least two nozzles connected to the outlet of a feeding device, allowing two different filaments to enter the system from a first feed port and a second feed port, respectively. The switching between the two feed sources is rapid and precise through the action of a routing module. The precise positioning of the guide plate in the recessed area of ​​the limiting part ensures complete blockage and conduction of the channel during switching, achieving seamless directional changes from the feed port to the selected main channel. Even when the same type of filament is selected, it can be guided to different final outlets according to the needs of the printing program. The first and second outlets can be connected to two different printheads, and even with only one printhead, it can be connected to the printhead through different outlets, potentially for different heating temperatures, flow rate control, or as a backup path, increasing the redundancy and flexibility of the system.

[0069] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0070] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first," "second," etc., in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0071] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0072] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, but only if they are based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this application.

[0073] 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 feeding device, characterized in that, The feeding device includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first channel, a second channel, a first outlet, and a second outlet; The first inlet is connected to the first outlet via a first channel; the first inlet is also connected to the second outlet via a first channel; The second inlet is connected to the first outlet through a second channel, and the second inlet is also connected to the second outlet through the second channel.

2. The feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device also includes a body, with the first feed port and the second feed port located at one end of the body, and the first discharge port and the second discharge port located at the other end of the body. The first feed port and the second feed port are connected to the first discharge port and the second discharge port through a channel inside the body.

3. The feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first feed inlet and the second feed inlet are arranged along a first direction, and the first discharge outlet and the second discharge outlet are arranged along a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction intersect.

4. The feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first channel includes a first main channel and two first branch channels. One end of the first main channel is connected to the first feed inlet, and the other end of the first main channel is connected to the intersection of the two first branch channels near the first feed inlet. One of the two first branch channels connects the first inlet and the first outlet, and the other of the two first branch channels connects the first inlet and the second outlet; and / or The second channel includes a second main channel and two second branch channels. One end of the second main channel is connected to the second feed inlet, and the other end of the second main channel is connected to the intersection of the two second branch channels near the second feed inlet. One of the two second branch channels connects the second inlet and the first outlet, and the other of the two second branch channels connects the second inlet and the second outlet.

5. The feeding device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The axes of the two first branch channels are at least partially coplanar, and the axes of the two second branch channels are at least partially coplanar.

6. The feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device includes a main body and a routing module, the routing module being connected to the main body; a first feed inlet, a second feed inlet, a first channel, a second channel, a first discharge outlet, and a second discharge outlet are disposed on the main body; the first channel includes two first branch channels, and the second channel includes two second branch channels; The routing module is installed at the intersection of the two first branch channels; and / or The routing module is located at the intersection of the two second branch channels.

7. The feeding device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The routing module includes a drive unit and a guide plate. The guide plate is disposed in the first channel and / or the second channel, and the drive unit is used to drive the guide plate to swing.

8. The feeding device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The drive element is located on the outside of the intersection of the two first branch channels; and / or The drive unit is located on the outside of the intersection of the two second branch channels.

9. The feeding device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The driving component includes an iron core and a coil, the coil being wound around the iron core, and a magnet being connected to the guide plate. When the coil is in operation, the iron core has a first end and a second end with opposite magnetic properties, and the magnet is rotatably positioned between the first end and the second end.

10. The feeding device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The routing module further includes a first limiting part and a second limiting part, wherein the limiting part restricts the range of swing of the guide plate; When the first limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the surface of the guide plate near the first branch channel or the second branch channel makes the wire flush or parallel to the direction of the second outlet; and / or When the second limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the guide plate approaches the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel so that the wire is flush or parallel to the direction of the first outlet.

11. The feeding device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, When a positive current is applied to the coil in the working state, the magnet is oriented toward one of the first end or the second end, and the guide plate contacts the first limiting part to restrict the movement of the guide plate. When a reverse current is applied to the coil in the working state, the magnet is directed toward the other of the first end or the second end, and the guide plate contacts the second limiting part to restrict the movement of the guide plate.

12. The feeding device as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The guide plate is elongated or trapezoidal, and is connected to the magnet along its length. The swing angle of the guide plate is between 10 and 30 degrees.

13. The feeding device as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The limiting part is connected to the first channel and / or the second channel, and the limiting part includes a recessed area for accommodating a portion of the guide plate; When the first limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the recessed area accommodates a portion of the guide plate, the guide plate is close to the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel, and the surface of the guide plate is flush with or parallel to the direction of the second discharge port, and / or, When the second limiting part restricts the swing of the guide plate, the recessed area accommodates part of the guide plate, the guide plate is close to the surface of the first branch channel or the second branch channel, and the surface of the guide plate is flush or parallel to the direction of the first discharge port.

14. The feeding device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The feeding device further includes a first discharge channel and a second discharge channel. The first discharge channel includes a third main channel and two third branch channels. The second discharge channel includes a fourth main channel and two fourth branch channels. The first branch channel and the second branch channel correspond one-to-one. One of the first branch channels and the corresponding second branch channels are respectively connected to two of the third branch channels, and the two third branch channels are connected to the end of the third main channel away from the first discharge port; Another first branch channel and the corresponding second branch channel are respectively connected to the fourth branch channel, and the two fourth branch channels are connected to the end of the fourth main channel away from the second discharge port.

15. The feeding device as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The axes of the first main channel and the two first branch channels are located in a first plane, the axes of the second main channel and the two second branch channels are located in a second plane, the axes of the third main channel and the two third branch channels are located in a third plane, and the axes of the fourth main channel and the two fourth branch channels are located in a fourth plane. The first plane intersects with the third plane, and the second plane intersects with the fourth plane.

16. The feeding device as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The first plane is parallel to the second plane, and the third plane is parallel to the fourth plane.

17. The feeding device as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The third branch channel and the fourth branch channel are arranged in a ring, and at least a portion of one of the third branch channel and the fourth branch channel encloses the other branch channel.

18. A 3D printer, characterized in that, The 3D printer includes a feeding device as described in any one of claims 1-17.

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