System for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects

Abstract

A system (1) for the additive production of three-dimensional objects, comprising at least one workstation (2) which is configured to carry out at least one work process within the scope of the additive production of three-dimensional objects, characterized by at least one, in particular user-side, movable, in particular displaceable, transport carriage (5) which comprises a frame structure (6) which comprises a receiving device (8) which comprises a receiving space (8a) configured to receive a powder module (4) within the frame structure (6), wherein the frame structure (6) comprises at least two frame structure sections (6a, 6b), wherein a first frame structure section (6a) is mounted so as to be movable relative to a second frame structure section (6b), in particular in a vertically oriented direction of movement, wherein the transport carriage (5) comprises at least one, in particular motor-driven, lifting device (7),which is designed to generate a lifting force that sets the first frame construction section (6a) in motion relative to the second frame construction section (6b).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a system for the additive production of three-dimensional objects, comprising at least one workstation which is designed to carry out at least one work process within the framework of the additive production of three-dimensional objects.

[0002] Systems for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects are known in principle. Such systems typically comprise one or more workstations, each of which is configured to perform at least one process within the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects.

[0003] It is known to transport powder modules, such as construction modules, which define a build space in which the actual additive construction of three-dimensional objects takes place, between different workstations of a system. For transporting such powder modules, transport carts have been proposed that have a mounting option for the powder module to be transported.

[0004] In order to transfer powder modules held in the corresponding transport cart-side receptacles from a corresponding powder module to or into a corresponding workstation, or vice versa, the transport carts must be docked to the respective workstation-side housing structures. The docking processes of the respective transport carts to the respective workstation-side housing structures can sometimes be complex.

[0005] In addition, the handling of the transport trolleys, especially when "loaded" with a powder module, is sometimes in need of improvement, which is due to the comparatively high center of gravity of the transport trolleys when "loaded" with a powder module compared to their "unloaded" state.

[0006] EP 2 926 927 A2 discloses a device for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of providing an improved system for the additive production of three-dimensional objects, which is characterized in particular by improved transport carriages.

[0008] The object is achieved by a system according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the system.

[0009] The system described herein ("System") is used for the additive manufacture of three-dimensional objects, i.e. for example technical components or groups of technical components. The system comprises a plurality of workstations, each of which is set up to carry out at least one work process within the scope of the additive manufacture of three-dimensional objects ("Objects"). Corresponding work processes within the scope of the additive manufacture of an object relate, on the one hand, to additive work processes, i.e. additive construction processes in which an object is actually additively constructed, in particular by successive layer-by-layer selective exposure and the associated successive layer-by-layer selective solidification of building material layers from a solidifiable building material by means of an energy beam, as well as to preparatory work processes to be carried out or carried out before respective additive work or construction processes, i.e.Cleaning, inerting and tempering processes of powder modules, as well as follow-up work processes to be carried out or carried out after the respective additive work or construction processes, e.g. unpacking processes of additively manufactured objects from corresponding powder modules.

[0010] A first workstation configured to carry out additive work processes, also referred to as a process station, can be designed as a device ("device") for the additive manufacture of objects or can comprise such a device. A corresponding device is configured for the additive manufacture of objects, i.e., for example, technical components or groups of technical components, by successive, layer-by-layer selective exposure and the associated successive, layer-by-layer selective solidification of building material layers made of a solidifiable building material. The building material can be a particulate or powdered metal, plastic, and / or ceramic material. The selective solidification of the respective building material layers to be selectively solidified takes place on the basis of object-specific construction data.Corresponding construction data describe the geometric and structural design of the respective object to be additively manufactured and can, for example, include "sliced" CAD data of the object to be additively manufactured. The device can be designed, for example, as an SLM device, i.e., a device for performing selective laser melting (SLM) processes, or as an SLS device, i.e., a device for performing selective laser sintering (SLS) processes.

[0011] A corresponding device comprises the functional components typically required to carry out additive construction processes. These include, in particular, a coating device which is set up to form build material layers to be selectively solidified (in the construction plane of the device), and an exposure device which is set up to selectively expose build material layers to be selectively solidified (in the construction plane of the device). The coating device typically comprises a plurality of components, i.e., for example, a coating element comprising a, in particular blade-shaped, coating tool, and a guide device for guiding the coating element along a defined movement path. The exposure device also typically comprises a plurality of components, i.e., for example, a beam generation device for generating an energy orLaser beam, a beam deflection device (scanner device) for deflecting an energy or laser beam generated by the beam generation device onto a region to be exposed of a build material layer to be selectively solidified, as well as various optical elements, such as lens elements, objective elements, etc. The aforementioned functional components of the device are typically arranged or formed on or in a process chamber of the device, which is typically capable of being rendered inert.

[0012] An optional additional (or second) workstation, also referred to as a post-processing station, can be designed as or comprise a device for unpacking an additively manufactured object. The device can be configured for unpacking an additively manufactured object by removing the typically unsolidified building material surrounding the additively manufactured object. A corresponding device comprises the functional components required for removing the typically unsolidified building material surrounding the additively manufactured object. This includes, in particular, a suction and / or blower device configured to generate a suction and / or blower flow by means of which the building material to be removed can be sucked away or blown away.

[0013] An optional further (or third) work station, which is also referred to as a preparation station and is set up to carry out preparatory work processes, can be designed as a device for cleaning and / or inerting and / or tempering powder modules or can comprise such a device. The device can be set up to clean and / or inerting and / or tempering powder modules. A corresponding device comprises the functional components required for cleaning and / or inerting and / or tempering powder modules. This includes, in particular, a cleaning device which is set up, for example, to generate a cleaning flow that cleans a powder chamber enclosed on the powder module side, or an inerting device which is set up to generate an inert gas flow that inertizes a powder chamber enclosed on the powder module side.a tempering device which is designed to temper a powder module to a specific target temperature.

[0014] Regardless of their specific functional design, individual workstations typically comprise their own housing structure, on or in which the functional components of the respective workstation are arranged or formed. The workstations can therefore be viewed as separate functional units of the system, spatially and physically defined by their respective housing structures, which can be positioned in various configurations relative to one another, e.g., in one or more buildings (sections), especially factory halls.

[0015] The system typically comprises a plurality of powder modules used in the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects. Each powder module is configured to receive and / or dispense build material and typically comprises a powder chamber for this purpose. The powder chamber defines a powder space that can be filled with build material. The powder space is defined at least laterally by walls (powder chamber walls) of the powder chamber, which is generally designed as a hollow cuboid or hollow cylinder. The powder space can be defined at the bottom by a support device. A corresponding support device is typically mounted so as to be movable relative to the powder chamber between two end positions, i.e. between an upper and a lower end position (relative to the height of the powder module).The movable mounting of the support device enables the realization of a movement, in particular a linear movement, of the support device along a vertical axis of movement or in a vertical direction of movement. The movable mounting of the support device is typically realized by a drive and / or actuator device coupled to it, in particular an (electric) motor.

[0016] Specifically, a powder module can be a construction module in which the actual additive construction of objects takes place and which is successively filled layer by layer with construction material to be selectively solidified during the implementation of additive construction processes, or a dosing module via which construction material is dosed into the process chamber during the implementation of additive construction processes, or a collecting or overflow module which is filled with non-solidified construction material during the implementation of additive construction processes.

[0017] The system further comprises at least one transport carriage - although in the following we will mostly refer to one transport carriage, the system typically comprises several corresponding transport carriages. The transport carriage can be moved or displaced between different work stations of the system by the user, i.e. by active movement by a user, and / or (partially) automatically via an integrated, in particular (electric) motor, drive device. If present on the transport carriage side, a corresponding drive device typically comprises at least one power transmission device which is designed to transmit a drive force generated by the drive device to a surface. The power transmission device can, for example, comprise a number of wheels, rollers, chains, etc., via which a transmission of the drive force generated by the drive device to a surface can be realized.

[0018] The transport carriage comprises a frame structure. The frame structure comprises at least two frame structure sections. A first frame structure section is mounted so as to be movable relative to a second frame structure section, in particular in a vertically oriented movement axis or direction. Although conceivable in principle, the second frame structure section is typically not mounted so as to be movable. The first frame structure section is typically arranged or formed above the second frame structure section. To implement movements of the first frame structure section relative to the second frame structure section, the transport carriage comprises at least one, in particular (electric) motor-driven, lifting device. The lifting device is designed to generate a movement of the first frame structure section, iea lifting or lowering movement, relative to the second frame construction section displacing lifting force.

[0019] The frame structure comprises a receiving device. The receiving device comprises a receiving space or a receiving volume. The receiving space is designed to accommodate at least one powder module within the frame structure. The dimensions of the receiving space are therefore selected such that the receiving space is designed to (fully) accommodate at least one powder module. The receiving device, ie, in particular the receiving space, is typically arranged or formed in the first frame structure section.

[0020] The lifting device is in particular designed to move the first frame construction section at least between a transport position in which a transfer of a powder module from the transport carriage to a work station, or vice versa, is not possible, and a transfer position in which a transfer of a powder module from the transport carriage to a work station is possible. The transport or transfer position typically involves specific vertical positions of the first frame construction section relative to the second frame construction section. The transfer position typically represents an upper position of the first frame construction section, in particular compared to the transport position. The transport position typically represents a lower position of the first frame construction section, in particular compared to the transfer position.The movable mounting of the first frame section relative to the second frame section enables the realization of different (vertical) positions of the first frame section, which typically involves a shift in the center of gravity of the transport trolley, which has a positive effect on the movement and driving characteristics of the transport trolley. Due to the comparatively low center of gravity of the transport trolley in the transport position, the potential risk of the transport trolley tipping over is eliminated or reduced.

[0021] The transport carriage is movable into a pre-docking position. In the pre-docking position, the transport carriage is arranged at a specific distance, i.e., in particular, a distance in a range between 5 and 15 cm, from a workstation-side housing structure. The pre-docking position can be considered a preliminary stage for a later docking position, in which the transport carriage actually docks with a workstation-side housing structure; in the pre-docking position, transferring a powder module from a transport carriage to a workstation, or vice versa, is typically not possible or not provided for.

[0022] The system may comprise a first securing device. The first securing device is configured to secure a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position in the pre-docking position. The first securing device is thus configured to secure the position of a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position relative to the workstation-side housing structure.

[0023] The first securing device can comprise at least one first securing element on the workstation side and at least one corresponding counter-securing element on the transport carriage side. The first securing element on the workstation side, i.e. arranged or formed on the workstation, is designed to interact with a counter-securing element on the transport carriage side, i.e. arranged or formed on the transport carriage, in such a way that the position of the transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position is secured relative to the workstation-side housing structure, and thus the transport carriage cannot be moved out of the pre-docking position. The workstation-side securing element and the transport carriage-side counter-securing element can interact in a form-fitting manner in the securing position. The workstation-side securing element can therefore be designed as a form-fitting element, i.e. for example as a hook-like or-shaped projection, or comprise such a projection. The counter-locking element on the transport carriage side can be designed as a corresponding counter-form-locking element, i.e., for example, as a particularly groove-like or groove-shaped receptacle for the projection, or comprise such a receptacle.

[0024] The workstation-side securing element can be movably mounted between a securing position, in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the transport carriage side such that it interacts with the counter-securing element to secure the pre-docking position of the transport carriage, and a non-securing position, in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the transport carriage side such that it does not interact with the counter-securing element to secure the docking position of the transport carriage. The movable mounting of the securing element can be implemented by an actuating device. The actuating device can comprise at least one actuating element (movement-)coupled to the securing element. The actuating device can be designed, for example, as a piston-cylinder device comprising a movably mounted actuating piston or can comprise such a device.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, a counter-locking element on the transport carriage side can (also) be movably mounted between a securing position in which it is moved relative to a workstation-side securing element such that it interacts with the latter to secure the pre-docking position of the transport carriage, and a non-securing position in which it is moved relative to a workstation-side securing element such that it does not interact with the latter to secure the docking position of the transport carriage. The movable mounting of the counter-locking element can also be implemented by an actuating device. The actuating device can comprise at least one actuating element (movement-)coupled to the counter-locking element. The actuating device can, for example,be designed as a pivoting device which is designed to pivot the counter-safety element between the securing and the non-securing position, or comprise such a device.

[0026] The system can comprise a first detection device. The first detection device is designed to detect a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position and to generate pre-docking position information describing a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position. Alternatively or additionally, the first detection device is designed to detect a securing of a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position, implemented by means of the first securing device, and to generate first securing information describing a securing of a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position, implemented by means of the first securing device. The first detection device can comprise at least one, e.g. acoustic, electrical, optical or haptic, detection element which is based on, e.g.acoustic, electrical, optical or haptic signals can be used to draw conclusions about the positioning and / or securing of a transport trolley in the pre-docking position. Concrete examples of a detection element are an (acoustic or optical) barrier or an (electrical and / or mechanical) contact. The respective detection elements can be arranged or designed on the workstation side and / or the transport trolley side. Regardless of their concrete design, the first detection device can detect whether a transport trolley has been moved into the pre-docking position and / or whether a transport trolley moved into the pre-docking position is secured in the pre-docking position. The respective detection result is mapped via the pre-docking position information or the securing information.

[0027] The lifting device on the transport carriage side can be configured to generate a lifting force that sets the first frame construction section, in particular starting from the transport position, in a movement relative to the second frame construction section, based on pre-docking position information and / or on securing information. In particular, the lifting device can be configured, in particular starting from the transport position, to set the first frame construction section in a movement towards a pre-transfer position described below or towards the transfer position when a transport carriage is moved into the pre-docking position and / or when a transport carriage moved into the pre-docking position is secured in the pre-docking position. In this way, the safety of the system can be improved, in particular.

[0028] The transport carriage can comprise a lifting release device associated with the lifting device on the transport carriage side. The lifting release device is configured to generate release information based on a release command generated by the user via a user interface, in particular on the transport carriage side, e.g., by a haptic input. The lifting release device can accordingly comprise a user-operable or actuated actuation interface, e.g., a pushbutton, button, touchscreen, etc. The lifting device can be configured to generate the lifting force displacing the first frame construction section relative to the second frame construction section based on release information generated by the lifting release device. Therefore, user approval may be required before an actual movement of the first frame construction section occurs.In this way, the safety of the system can be further improved.

[0029] It was mentioned that the lifting device on the transport carriage side is particularly configured to move the first frame construction section between a transport position and a transfer position. The lifting device can further be configured to move the first frame construction section, particularly starting from the transport position of the first frame construction section and the pre-docking position of the transport carriage, into a pre-transfer position located above the transfer position. The pre-transfer position can be located (in the vertical direction) a few centimeters, i.e., e.g., between 5 and 15 centimeters, above the transfer position.The pre-transfer position can be considered a preliminary stage for a transfer position in which, as mentioned, a transfer of a powder module from the transport carriage to the work station, or vice versa, is possible; in the pre-transfer position, a transfer of a powder module from a transport carriage to a work station, or vice versa, is typically not yet possible or not provided for.

[0030] The system can comprise a second detection device. The second detection device is configured to detect a first frame construction section moved into the pre-transfer position and to generate pre-transfer position information describing a first frame construction section moved into the pre-transfer position. The second detection device can comprise at least one detection element, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic, which can draw conclusions about the positioning of a first frame construction section in the pre-transfer position based on, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic signals. Specific examples of a detection element are, in turn, an (acoustic or optical) barrier or an (electrical and / or mechanical) contact. The respective detection elements can, in turn, be arranged or configured on the workstation side and / or the transport trolley side.Regardless of its specific design, the second detection device can detect whether a first frame structure section has been moved into the pre-transfer position. The respective detection result is represented by the pre-transfer position information.

[0031] It was mentioned that the transport carriage, in particular starting from the pre-docking position, can also be moved into a docking position. The pre-docking and docking positions typically involve specific horizontal (lateral) positions of the transport carriage relative to a housing structure on the workstation side. In the docking position, the transport carriage is arranged at a distance from a respective workstation-side housing structure that is smaller than in the pre-docking position, or is directly adjacent to a respective workstation-side housing structure. In the docking position, the transport carriage is docked to the workstation-side housing structure in such a way that a transfer of a powder module from the transport carriage to the workstation, or vice versa, is possible. In the docking position, a transfer of a powder module from a transport carriage to a workstation, or vice versa, is therefore possible.provided.

[0032] Movements of the transport trolley from the pre-docking position to the docking position naturally require the removal of any securing of the transport trolley in the pre-docking position implemented by means of the first securing device. In principle, a movement of the transport trolley into the docking position can be manual or (partially) automated. In the latter case, the first securing device can, for example, be used to move the transport trolley from the pre-docking position to the docking position. This can be achieved by generating a force, typically a tensile force, that moves the transport trolley from the pre-docking position to the docking position through the interaction and movement of the workstation-side securing elements and the counter-securing elements on the transport trolley relative to one another.The force can be realized specifically by a movement of the workstation-side securing element that moves the transport carriage into the docking position and interacts with, i.e., in particular, is coupled to, the counter-securing element on the transport carriage.

[0033] The lifting device on the transport carriage side can be configured to move (lower) the first frame construction section, in particular starting from the pre-transfer position, into the transfer position based on pre-transfer position information. In particular, the lifting device can be configured to move the first frame construction section toward the transfer position when the transport carriage has been moved into the docking position, in particular starting from the pre-transfer position. This, in turn, can improve the safety of the system.

[0034] The system may further comprise a second securing device. The second securing device is configured to secure a first frame construction section of a transport carriage, which has been moved into the transfer position, in the transfer position. The second securing device is thus configured to secure the position of a first frame construction section, which has been moved into the transfer position, in particular relative to the workstation-side housing structure.

[0035] The second securing device can comprise at least one first securing element on the workstation side and at least one corresponding counter-securing element on the transport carriage side. The first securing element on the workstation side, i.e., arranged or formed at the workstation, is configured to interact with a counter-securing element on the transport carriage side, i.e., arranged or formed on the transport carriage, such that the position of the first frame construction section moved into the transfer position is secured relative to the workstation-side housing structure, thus preventing the first frame construction section from being moved out of the transfer position (without actuating the lifting device).

[0036] The securing element on the workstation side and the counter-securing element on the transport carriage side can interact in a form-fitting manner in the transfer position. The securing element on the workstation side can therefore be designed as a form-fitting element, i.e. for example as a projection, in particular one that is conical or cone-like or shaped, or can comprise such a projection. The counter-securing element on the transport carriage side can be designed as a corresponding counter-form-fitting element, i.e. for example as a receptacle or bushing, in particular one that is conical or cone-like or shaped, or can comprise such a projection. A corresponding form-fitting element, in particular in the form of a projection, in particular that is conical or cone-like or shaped, can, due to its geometric design, perform a centering function, for example in the sense of a centering bolt. The interaction of a form-fitting element and a counter-form-fitting element can therefore center the first frame construction section orof the entire transport carriage relative to a workstation-side housing construction and thus securing the position of the first frame construction section or of the entire transport carriage in at least two, in particular three, orthogonally aligned spatial directions.

[0037] It has been mentioned several times that, in the transfer position, a powder module can be transferred from the transport carriage to a workstation, or vice versa. For this purpose, the frame structure on the transport carriage side can comprise at least one transfer interface, in particular in the form of an opening, which enables a powder module to be transferred from the receiving device to a workstation or a powder module to be transferred from a workstation to a receiving device on the transport carriage side. Analogously, a housing structure on the workstation side can comprise at least one transfer interface, in particular in the form of an opening, which enables a powder module to be transferred from a workstation to a receiving device on the transport carriage side or a powder module to be transferred from a receiving device on the transport carriage side to a workstation.In the transfer position of a first frame construction section of a respective transport carriage, the transport carriage-side transfer interface is typically aligned with a workstation-side transfer interface, so that a transfer of a powder module from the transport carriage to the workstation, or vice versa, is possible.

[0038] In order to enable a simplified, standardized transfer of powder modules between the transport trolleys belonging to the system and the workstations belonging to the system within the system, the respective workstation-side and transport trolley-side transfer interfaces for all workstations and transport trolleys belonging to the system can be designed geometrically and structurally identical, i.e. standardized.

[0039] The respective transport carriage-side and workstation-side transfer interfaces can be closed by a locking device. The locking device can comprise a locking element which is mounted so as to be movable between an open position, in which the respective transfer interface is released for the transfer of a powder module, and a closed position, in which the respective transfer interface is not released for the transfer of a powder module. Moving the locking element into the open or closed position, or vice versa, can be automated, e.g. depending on the detection of the transfer position, i.e. depending on the detection of a first frame construction section moved into the transfer position. Detection of the transfer position orThe detection of a first frame construction section moved into the transfer position can be carried out via the second detection device or via a third detection device. The third detection device can be configured analogously to the second detection device, so reference is made to the relevant explanations.

[0040] The receiving device on the transport carriage side can comprise a storage device which is designed for the storage, in particular in a suspended manner, of at least one powder module in the receiving space. The storage device can be designed to store a powder module, in particular between a first position completely received in the receiving space or the frame structure (powder module storage position) and a second position partially protruding from the receiving space or the frame structure (powder module transfer position), movably relative to the first frame structure section. For this purpose, the storage device can comprise a plurality of storage elements which enable a movable storage of a powder module received in the receiving space relative to the first frame structure section. Suitable storage elements can be, for example,These can be sliding or roller bearing elements which interact with a powder module to form a movable bearing, i.e. they engage in active sections provided for this purpose on the powder module side, e.g. formed by recesses present on the powder module side.

[0041] A corresponding storage device can comprise a powder module securing device. The powder module securing device is designed to secure the position of a powder module accommodated in the receiving space. The powder module securing device can comprise at least one securing element on the frame structure side, which is designed to interact with a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that the positioning of the powder module accommodated in the receiving space is secured.A corresponding securing element can be movable between a securing position in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that it cooperates with the latter to secure the position of a powder module, and a non-securing position in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that it does not cooperate with the latter to secure the position of a powder module.

[0042] The frame-side securing element can interact with a respective powder module-side counter-securing element in the transport position of the first frame-side section. The transport position thus corresponds to a securing position in which the position of a powder module is secured against undesired position changes. This can be implemented such that the powder module-side counter-securing element is moved relative to the frame-side securing element in the transport position such that they interact to secure the powder module accommodated in the receiving space.

[0043] The securing element on the frame structure side and the counter-locking element on the powder module side can interact in a form-fitting manner. The securing element can be designed as a form-fitting element, i.e., for example, a particularly bolt-like or pin-shaped projection, or comprise such a projection, and the counter-locking element can be designed as a corresponding counter-form-fitting element, i.e., for example, a particularly bush-like or pin-shaped receptacle for the projection, or comprise such a receptacle.

[0044] In a manner analogous to the receiving device on the transport carriage side, respective workstations can also comprise a corresponding storage device. The storage device can be configured to support a powder module movably relative to the housing structure along a transport path extending through the workstation, for which purpose the storage device comprises bearing elements which enable movable support of a powder module arranged in the storage device relative to the housing structure on the workstation side. Corresponding bearing elements can in turn be, for example, plain or roller bearing elements which interact with a powder module to form a movable support, i.e., for example, engage in active sections provided for this purpose on the powder module side, e.g. formed by recesses present on the powder module side.

[0045] The respective transport carriage-side and workstation-side storage devices are expediently aligned with one another in the transfer position of a first frame construction section of each transport carriage, resulting in a continuous transport path extending between the transport carriage and the workstation, which allows powder modules stored in the respective storage devices to be easily transferred from a transport carriage to a workstation and vice versa. For the same purpose, the respective transport carriage-side storage devices and the respective workstation-side storage devices are expediently designed to be identical or standardized.

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments in the drawing figures. In the drawings: Fig. 1 - 3 each show a schematic diagram of a section of a system for the additive production of three-dimensional objects according to an embodiment.

[0047] The Fig. 1 - 3 each show a schematic diagram of a section of a system 1 for the additive production of three-dimensional objects according to an embodiment.

[0048] The system 1 typically comprises several workstations 2, even though only a single workstation 2 is shown in each of the figures, i.e., process stations configured to carry out additive work processes, which are designed as or comprise a device (not further designated) for the additive production of three-dimensional objects. A corresponding device comprises the functional components required to carry out additive construction processes. These include, in particular, a coating device (not shown), which is configured to form build material layers to be selectively solidified, and an exposure device (not shown), which is configured to selectively expose build material layers to be selectively solidified.

[0049] Other workstations 2 may be workstations 2 set up to carry out follow-up work processes, also referred to as post-processing stations, or workstations 2 set up to carry out preparatory work processes, also referred to as preparation stations.

[0050] Regardless of their specific functional design, each workstation 2 comprises its own housing structure 3, on or in which the functional components of the respective workstation 2 are arranged or formed. The workstations 2 are to be viewed as separate functional units of the system 1, spatially and physically defined by respective housing structures 3, which can be positioned in various configurations relative to one another, e.g., in one or more buildings (sections), in particular factory halls.

[0051] The system 1 comprises a plurality of powder modules 4 used in the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects. Each powder module 4 is configured to receive and / or dispense build material and typically comprises a powder chamber (not shown) for this purpose. The powder chamber delimits a powder space that can be filled with build material. The powder space is delimited at least laterally by walls (powder chamber walls) of the powder chamber. The bottom of the powder space can be delimited by a support device (not shown). The support device can be movably mounted relative to the powder chamber between two end positions, i.e. between an upper end position (relative to the height of the powder module 4) and a lower end position. The movable mounting of the support device enables the realization of a movement, in particular a linear movement, of the support device along a vertical movement axis or in a vertical movement direction.The movable mounting of the carrier device can be realized by a drive and / or actuator device coupled thereto, in particular an (electric) motor.

[0052] Specifically, a powder module 4 can be a construction module, a dosing module or a collection or overflow module.

[0053] The system 1 further comprises a number of transport carriages 5. A respective transport carriage 5 can be moved or displaced between the workstations 2 of the system 1 by the user, ie by active movement by a user, and / or (partially) automatically via an integrated, in particular (electric) motor, drive device (not shown).

[0054] The transport carriage 5 comprises a frame structure 6. The frame structure 6 comprises two frame structure sections 6a, 6b. A first frame structure section 6b is mounted so as to be movable relative to a second frame structure section 6b in a vertically oriented movement axis or direction indicated by the double arrow P1. The first frame structure section 6a is clearly arranged above the second frame structure section 6b. To implement movements of the first frame structure section 6a relative to the second frame structure section 6b, the transport carriage 5 comprises a lifting device 7, in particular an (electric) motor-driven one, indicated purely schematically. The lifting device 7 is designed to generate a lifting force that sets the first frame structure section 6a in motion, i.e. a lifting or lowering movement, relative to the second frame structure section 6b.

[0055] The frame structure 6 comprises a receiving device 8 arranged in the first frame structure section 6a. The receiving device 8 comprises a receiving space 8a, which is designed to receive at least one powder module 4 within the frame structure 6. The dimensions of the receiving space 8a are selected such that the receiving space 8a is designed to (fully) accommodate at least one powder module 4.

[0056] The lifting device 7 is designed to lift the first frame construction section 6a at least between a Fig. 1, in which a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to a work station 2, or vice versa, is not possible, and one in Fig. 3, in which a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to a work station 2 is possible. The transfer position represents an upper position of the first frame construction section 6a, in particular compared to the transport position. The transport position typically represents a lower position of the first frame construction section 6a relative to the second frame construction section 6b, in particular compared to the transfer position. The transport and transfer positions are therefore specific vertical positions of the first frame construction section 6a.

[0057] The transport carriage 5 is in a Fig. 2. In the pre-docking position, the transport carriage 5 is arranged at a certain distance, ie, in particular, a distance in a range between 5 and 15 cm, from the workstation-side housing structure 3. The pre-docking position can be considered a preliminary stage for a docking position in which the transport carriage 5 docks onto the workstation-side housing structure 3; in the pre-docking position, a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to the workstation 2, or vice versa, is not possible or not provided for.

[0058] The system 1 comprises a first securing device 9, which is designed to secure the transport carriage 5, which has been moved into the pre-docking position, in the pre-docking position. The first securing device 9 comprises at least one first securing element 9a on the workstation side and at least one corresponding counter-securing element 9b on the transport carriage side. A respective first securing element 9a on the workstation side, i.e. arranged or formed on the workstation 2, is designed to interact with a respective counter-securing element 9b on the transport carriage side, i.e. arranged or formed on the transport carriage 5, such that the position of the transport carriage 5, which has been moved into the pre-docking position, is secured relative to the workstation-side housing structure 3. The workstation-side securing element 9a and the counter-securing element 9b on the transport carriage side interact in a form-fitting manner in the securing position.The workstation-side securing element 9a is designed as a form-locking element, e.g. as a particularly hook-like or -shaped projection, and the transport carriage-side counter-securing element 9b is designed as a corresponding counter-form-locking element, e.g. as a particularly groove-like or -shaped receptacle for the projection.

[0059] Based on a comparison of the Fig. 1 - 3 it can be seen that the workstation-side securing element 9a is arranged between a Fig. 2, in which it is moved relative to the counter-locking element 9b on the transport carriage side in such a way that it cooperates with it to form a securing of the pre-docking position of the transport carriage 5, and a Fig. 1, in which it is moved relative to the counter-securing element 9b on the transport carriage side in such a way that it does not interact with it to secure the docking position of the transport carriage 5. The movable mounting of the securing element 9a is realized by an actuating device 10, which comprises an actuating element 10a (movement-)coupled to the securing element 9a. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the actuating device 10 is designed as a piston-cylinder device comprising a movably mounted actuating piston.

[0060] The counter-locking element 9b on the transport vehicle side is also located between a Fig. 2, in which it is moved relative to the workstation-side securing element 9a in such a way that it cooperates with it to form a securing of the pre-docking position of the transport carriage 5, and a Fig. 1, in which it is moved relative to the workstation-side securing element 9a in such a way that it does not interact with it to secure the docking position of the transport carriage 5. The movable mounting of the counter-securing element 9b is realized by an adjusting device (not shown in detail), which comprises an adjusting element (movement-)coupled to the counter-securing element 9b. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the adjusting device is designed as a pivoting device, which is configured to pivot the counter-securing element 9b between the securing and the non-securing position.

[0061] The system 1 comprises a first detection device 11, which is configured to detect a transport carriage 5 moved into the pre-docking position and to generate pre-docking position information describing a transport carriage 5 moved into the pre-docking position and / or to detect a securing of a transport carriage 5 moved into the pre-docking position, implemented by means of the first securing device 9, and to generate first securing information describing a securing of a transport carriage 5 moved into the pre-docking position, implemented by means of the first securing device 9. The first detection device 11 comprises at least one detection element 11a, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic, which can draw conclusions about the positioning and / or securing of a transport carriage 5 in the pre-docking position based on, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic signals.Specifically, the detection element 11a can be configured, for example, as an (acoustic or optical) barrier or as an (electrical and / or mechanical) contact. Corresponding detection elements 11a can be arranged or configured on the workstation side and / or the transport trolley side.

[0062] The lifting device 7 on the transport carriage side is configured to generate a lifting force that sets the first frame construction section 6a, in particular starting from the transport position, in a movement relative to the second frame construction section 6a, based on pre-docking position information and / or on securing information. In particular, the lifting device is configured, in particular starting from the transport position, to set the first frame construction section 6a in a movement toward the transfer position when the transport carriage 5 is moved into the pre-docking position and / or when the transport carriage 5 moved into the pre-docking position is secured in the pre-docking position.

[0063] The transport carriage 5 can comprise a lifting release device (not shown) assigned to the lifting device 7 on the transport carriage side. The lifting release device is configured to generate release information based on a release command generated by the user via a user interface (not shown), in particular on the transport carriage side, e.g., by a haptic input. The lifting release device can accordingly comprise a user-operable or actuating actuation interface, e.g., a pushbutton, button, touchscreen, etc. The lifting device 7 can be configured to generate the lifting force displacing the first frame construction section 6a relative to the second frame construction section 6b based on release information generated by the lifting release device.

[0064] Therefore, user approval may be required before actual movement of the first frame construction section 6a occurs.

[0065] The lifting device 7 is, as can be seen from Fig. 2, further arranged to move the first frame construction section 6a, in particular starting from the transport position of the first frame construction section 6a and the pre-docking position of the transport carriage 5, into a Fig. 2 shown above the in Fig. 3. The pre-transfer position is located (in the vertical direction) a few centimeters, e.g., between 5 and 15 cm, above the transfer position. The pre-transfer position can be regarded as a preliminary stage for the transfer position, in which, as mentioned, a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to the work station 2, or vice versa, is possible; in the pre-transfer position, a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to the work station 2, or vice versa, is typically not yet possible or not provided for.

[0066] The system 1 further comprises a second detection device 12, which is configured to detect a first frame construction section 6a moved into the pre-transfer position and to generate pre-transfer position information describing a first frame construction section 6a moved into the pre-transfer position. The second detection device 12 comprises at least one detection element 12a, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic, which can draw conclusions about the positioning of the first frame construction section 6a in the pre-transfer position based on, e.g., acoustic, electrical, optical, or haptic signals. Specifically, the detection element 12a can, for example, be configured as an (acoustic or optical) barrier or as an (electrical and / or mechanical) contact. Corresponding detection elements 12a can, in turn, be arranged or configured on the workstation side and / or the transport trolley side.

[0067] The figure shows that the pre-docking position ( Fig. 2) and the docking position ( Fig. 3) are specific horizontal (lateral) positions of the transport carriage 5 relative to the workstation-side housing construction3. From a comparison of the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 shows that the transport carriage 5 is arranged in the docking position at a smaller distance from the workstation-side housing structure 3 or directly adjacent to the workstation-side housing structure 3 compared to the pre-docking position. In the docking position, the transport carriage 5 is docked to the workstation-side housing structure 3 in such a way that a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to the workstation 2, or vice versa, is possible.

[0068] Naturally, movements of the transport carriage 5 from the pre-docking position to the docking position require the removal of any securing of the transport carriage 5 in the pre-docking position implemented by means of the first securing device 9. In principle, a movement of the transport carriage 5 into the docking position can be carried out manually or (partially) automatically. In the latter case, for example, the first securing device 9 can be used to move the transport carriage 5 from the pre-docking position into the docking position. This can be achieved by generating a force, typically a tensile force, that moves the transport carriage 5 into the docking position through the interaction and movement of the workstation-side securing elements 9a and the counter-securing elements 9b on the transport carriage side relative to one another.The force can be realized specifically by a movement of the workstation-side securing element 9a, which cooperates with the counter-securing element 9b on the transport carriage side, i.e. in particular is coupled, moving the transport carriage 5 into the docking position.

[0069] The lifting device 7 on the transport carriage side is configured to move (lower) the first frame construction section 6a, in particular starting from the pre-transfer position, into the transfer position based on pre-transfer position information. In particular, the lifting device 7 is configured to move the first frame construction section 6a toward the transfer position when the transport carriage 5 is moved into the docking position, in particular starting from the pre-transfer position.

[0070] The system 1 further comprises a second securing device 13, which is designed to secure the first frame construction section 6a, which has been moved into the transfer position, in the transfer position. The second securing device 13 comprises at least one workstation-side first securing element 13a and at least one corresponding transport carriage-side counter-securing element 13b. A respective workstation-side first securing element 13a, ie arranged or formed at the workstation 2, is designed to be connected to a respective transport carriage-side first securing element 13b, ieto cooperate with the counter-locking element 13b arranged or formed on the transport carriage 5 in such a way that the position of the first frame construction section 6b moved into the transfer position is secured relative to the workstation-side housing construction 3, thus the first frame construction section 6a cannot be moved out of the transfer position (without actuating the lifting device 7).

[0071] Respective workstation-side securing elements 13a and respective transport carriage-side counter-securing elements 13b interact in a form-fitting manner in the transfer position. Respective workstation-side securing elements 13a are designed as form-fitting elements, i.e. as projections, in particular conical or cone-like or -shaped. Respective transport carriage-side counter-securing elements 13b are designed as corresponding counter-form-fitting elements, i.e. as receptacles or bushings, in particular conical or cone-like or -shaped. A corresponding form-fitting element, in particular in the form of a conical or cone-like or -shaped projection, exerts a centering function, for example in the sense of a centering bolt, due to its geometric-structural shape. The interaction of the respective form-fitting and respective counter-form-fitting elements thus ensures centering of the first frame construction section 6a orof the entire transport carriage 5 relative to the workstation-side housing construction 3 and thus securing the position of the first frame construction section 6a or of the entire transport carriage in at least two, in particular three, orthogonally aligned spatial axes or directions, cf. the entered coordinate system.

[0072] It has been mentioned several times that, in the transfer position, a powder module 4 can be transferred from the transport carriage 5 to the work station 2, or vice versa. For this purpose, the frame structure 6 on the transport carriage side comprises at least one transfer interface (not shown), in particular in the form of an opening, which enables a powder module 4 to be transferred from the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side to a work station 3 or a powder module 4 to be transferred from the work station 2 to the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side. Analogously, the housing structure 3 on the work station side comprises at least one transfer interface (not shown), in particular in the form of an opening, which enables a powder module 4 to be transferred from the work station 2 to the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side or a powder module 4 to be transferred from the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side to the work station 2.In the transfer position, the transfer interface on the transport carriage side is aligned with the transfer interface on the workstation side, so that a transfer of a powder module 4 from the transport carriage 5 to the workstation 2, or vice versa, is possible.

[0073] In order to enable a simplified, because standardized, transfer of powder modules 4 between the transport carriages 5 belonging to the system 1 and the workstations 2 belonging to the system 1 within the system 1, the respective workstation-side and respective transport carriage-side transfer interfaces for all workstations 2 and transport carriages 5 belonging to the system 1 are geometrically and structurally identical, ie standardized.

[0074] Respective transport carriage-side and respective workstation-side transfer interfaces can be closed via a closure device (not shown). A corresponding closure device can comprise a closure element which is mounted such that it can move between an open position, in which the respective transfer interface is released for transferring a powder module 4, and a closed position, in which the respective transfer interface is not released for transferring a powder module 4. Moving the closure element into the open or closed position, or vice versa, can be automated, e.g. depending on the detection of the transfer position, i.e. depending on the detection of a first frame construction section 6a moved into the transfer position. Detection of the transfer position orThe detection of a first frame construction section 6a moved into the transfer position can be carried out via the second detection device 12 or via a third detection device (not shown). The third detection device can be configured analogously to the second detection device 12.

[0075] Based on Fig.1 it can be seen that the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side comprises a storage device 14 which is designed for the storage, in particular in a suspended manner, of at least one powder module 4 in the receiving space 8a. The storage device 14 is designed to movably support a powder module 4, in particular between a first position (powder module storage position) completely received in the receiving space 8a or the frame structure 6 and a second position (powder module transfer position) partially protruding from the receiving space 8a or the frame structure 6. For this purpose, the storage device 14 comprises a plurality of bearing elements 14a which enable a movable support of a powder module 4 received in the receiving space 8a. The bearing elements 14a can be, for example, plain or roller bearing elements which interact with a powder module 4 to form a movable support, i.e., for example,engage in effective sections (not shown) provided for this purpose on the powder module side, e.g. formed by recesses present on the powder module side.

[0076] A corresponding storage device 14 may comprise a powder module securing device (not shown). The powder module securing device is configured to secure the position of a powder module 4 accommodated in the receiving space 8a. The powder module securing device may comprise at least one frame-side securing element, which is configured to interact with a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that the positioning of the powder module 4 accommodated in the receiving space 8a is secured.A corresponding securing element can be movable between a securing position in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that it interacts with the latter to secure the position of a powder module 4, and a non-securing position in which it is moved relative to a counter-securing element on the powder module side in such a way that it does not interact with the latter to secure the position of a powder module 4.

[0077] A respective securing element on the frame construction side can interact with a respective counter-securing element on the powder module side in the transport position of the first frame construction section 6a. The transport position thus corresponds to a securing position in which the position of a powder module 4 is secured against undesired position changes. This can be implemented in such a way that the counter-securing element on the powder module side is moved relative to the securing element on the frame construction side in the transport position such that they interact to form a securing element for the powder module 4 accommodated in the receiving space 8a.

[0078] A respective securing element on the frame structure side and a respective counter-securing element on the powder module side can interact in a form-fitting manner. The securing element can be designed as a form-fitting element, i.e., for example, as a projection, particularly in the form of a bolt, and the counter-securing element can be designed as a corresponding counter-form-fitting element, i.e., for example, as a receptacle, particularly in the form of a bush, for the projection.

[0079] In a manner analogous to the receiving device 8 on the transport carriage side, the work station 2 can also comprise a corresponding storage device 15. The storage device 15 is configured to support a powder module 4 movably relative to the housing structure 3 along a transport path indicated by the double arrow P2 and extending through the work station 2. For this purpose, the storage device 15 comprises bearing elements 15a which enable a powder module 4 arranged in the storage device 15 to be movably supported relative to the housing structure 3. Corresponding bearing elements 15a can in turn be, for example, plain or roller bearing elements which interact with a powder module 4 to form a movable bearing, i.e., for example, engage in active sections provided for this purpose on the powder module side, e.g., formed by recesses present on the powder module side.

[0080] Respective transport carriage-side and workstation-side storage devices 14, 15 are aligned with one another in the transfer position of a first frame construction section 6a, resulting in a continuous transport path extending between transport carriage 5 and workstation 2, which allows powder modules 4 stored in respective storage devices 14, 15 to be easily transferred from a transport carriage 5 to a workstation 2, and vice versa. For the same purpose, the respective transport carriage-side storage devices 14 and the respective workstation-side storage devices 15 are designed identically or in a standardized manner.

Claims

[1] Plant (1) for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, comprising at least one workstation (2) which is set up to carry out at least one operation in the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, characterized byat least one transport carriage (5), which is movable, in particular by the user, and in particular displaceable, and which comprises a frame construction (6), which comprises a receiving device (8), which comprises a receiving space (8a) provided for receiving a powder module (4) within the frame construction (6), wherein the frame construction (6) comprises at least two frame construction sections (6a, 6b), wherein a first frame construction section (6a) is movably mounted relative to a second frame construction section (6b), in particular in a vertically oriented direction of movement, and wherein the transport carriage (5) comprises at least one lifting device (7), in particular a motorized one, which is provided for generating a lifting force that sets the first frame construction section (6a) into motion relative to the second frame construction section (6b). [2] Plant according to claim 1, characterized by, that the lifting device (7) on the transport trolley side is set up to move the first frame construction section (6a) at least between a transport position in which a transfer of a powder module (4) from the transport trolley (5) to a work station (2), or vice versa, is not possible, and a transfer position in which a transfer of a powder module (4) from the transport trolley (5) to a work station (2) is possible. [3] Plant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the transport trolley (5) can be moved into a pre-docking position in which it is arranged at a certain distance, in particular a distance in a range between 5 and 15 cm, from a workstation-side housing structure (3). [4] Plant according to claim 3, characterized bya first safety device (9) which is set up to secure a transport trolley (5) moved into the pre-docking position in the pre-docking position. [5] Plant according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by a first detection device (11) which is configured to detect a transport trolley (5) moved into the pre-docking position and which is configured to generate pre-docking position information describing a transport trolley (5) moved into the pre-docking position and / or which is configured to detect a locking of a transport trolley (5) moved into the pre-docking position realized by means of the first locking device (9) and which is configured to generate first locking information describing a locking of a transport trolley (5) moved into the pre-docking position realized by means of the first locking device (9). [6] Plant according to claim 5, characterized by, that the transport trolley-side lifting device (7) is configured to generate a lifting force that moves the first frame construction section (6a), in particular starting from the transport position, relative to the second frame construction section (6a) on the basis of a pre-docking position information and / or on the basis of a safety information. [7] Plant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bya lifting release device (7) assigned to the transport trolley-side lifting device, which is configured to generate release information on the basis of a user-generated release command via a user interface, in particular on the transport trolley side, wherein the transport trolley-side lifting device (7) is configured to generate the lifting force displacing a respective first frame construction section (6a) relative to a respective second frame construction section (6b) on the basis of release information generated by the lifting release device. [8] Plant according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized by, that the lifting device (7) on the transport trolley side is set up to move the first frame construction section (6a), in particular starting from the transport position of the first frame construction section (6a) and a pre-docking position of the transport trolley (5), into a pre-transfer position located above the transfer position. [9] Plant according to claim 8, characterized by a second detection device (12) which is set up to detect a first frame construction section (6a) moved into the pre-transfer position and to generate pre-transfer position information describing a first frame construction section (6a) moved into the pre-transfer position. [10] Plant according to claim 9, characterized by, that the transport carriage (5), in particular starting from the pre-docking position of the transport carriage (5) and the pre-transfer position of the first frame construction section (6a), can be moved into a docking position in which it is arranged with a smaller distance from the respective workstation-side housing construction (3) compared to the pre-docking position or directly adjacent to the respective workstation-side housing construction (3). [11] Plant according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by , that the transport trolley-side lifting device (7) is set up to move the first frame construction section (6a), in particular starting from the pre-transfer position, into a respective transfer position on the basis of pre-transfer position information. [12] Plant according to any one of claims 2 to 11, characterized bya second safety device (13) which is set up to secure a first frame construction section (6a) of a transport carriage (5) moved into the transfer position in the transfer position. [13] Plant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the transport trolley-side frame construction (6) comprises at least one transfer interface, in particular in the form of an opening, which enables the transfer of a powder module (4) from the receiving device (8) into a workstation-side housing construction (3) or the transfer of a powder module (4) from a workstation-side housing construction (3) into the receiving device (8), and a workstation-side housing construction (3) comprises at least one transfer interface, in particular in the form of an opening, which enables the transfer of a powder module (4) from the workstation-side housing construction (3) into a transport trolley-side receiving device (8) or the transfer of a powder module (4) from a transport trolley-side receiving device (8) into the workstation-side housing construction (3). [14] Plant according to claim 13, characterized by, that the transfer interface on the transport trolley side is aligned with the transfer interface on the workstation side in the transfer position of a first frame construction section (6a) of a respective transport trolley (5), so that a transfer of a powder module (4) from the transport trolley (5) to the workstation-side housing construction (3), or vice versa, is possible. [15] Plant according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by , that the respective workstation-side and transport trolley-side transfer interfaces for all workstations (2) and transport trolleys (5) belonging to the system (1) are designed identically, in particular geometrically and structurally. [16] Plant according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized bya locking device assigned to a respective transfer interface, wherein a respective locking device comprises a locking element which is movably mounted between an open position in which the respective transfer interface is released for the transfer of a powder module (4) from the respective transport carriage (5) into a respective workstation-side housing construction (3), or vice versa, and a closed position in which the respective transfer interface is not released for the transfer of a powder module (4) from the respective transport carriage (5) into a respective workstation-side housing construction (3), or vice versa. [17] Plant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the receiving device (8) on the transport carriage side comprises a storage device (14) which is configured for the, in particular suspended, storage of at least one powder module (4) in the receiving space (8), wherein the storage device (14) is configured to store a powder module (4), in particular between a first position fully received in the receiving space (8a) and a second position partially protruding from the receiving space (8a), movably relative to the first frame construction section (6a). [18] Plant according to claim 17, characterized by a powder module securing device associated with the storage device (14), which is designed to secure the position of a powder module (4) received in the receiving chamber (8a). [19] Plant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that each workstation (2) comprises a housing structure (3) with a storage device (15) which is configured to store a powder module (4) movably relative to the housing structure (3) along a transport path extending through the workstation (2).

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