DEVICE FOR THE EXTRUSION-BASED MANUFACTURING OF AT LEAST ONE THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, comprising at least one extrusion unit which is configured for melting an extrusion material and / or for applying a melted extrusion material to a substrate.

[0002] Corresponding extrusion equipment for the extrusion-based production of one or more three-dimensional objects is known in principle from the prior art.

[0003] Although three-dimensional objects in a wide variety of spatial-physical configurations can be reliably produced using appropriate extrusion equipment, there is a need to better monitor and, if necessary, better control the corresponding construction or manufacturing processes, e.g., for the purpose of process monitoring.

[0004] If technical approaches already exist for this purpose, they require improvement or further development, particularly with regard to the meaningfulness and reliability of the monitoring results.

[0005] US 2018 / 290387 A1 discloses an additive manufacturing device and a process that can be implemented with it.

[0006] WO 2014 / 153535 A2 discloses an additive manufacturing device and a process that can be implemented with it.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of providing an extrusion device with an improved possibility for implementing process monitoring.

[0008] The problem is solved by a device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the extrusion device.

[0009] A first aspect of the invention described herein relates to a device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. The term "object" can, in principle, be understood to mean any three-dimensional item or any section of a three-dimensional item. A three-dimensional item can, for example, be a technical component or a technical component group. A section of a three-dimensional item can therefore be a section of a technical component or a section of a technical component group.

[0010] The device is configured for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. Specifically, the device is configured for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object via an extrusion-based build-up of the corresponding three-dimensional object, at least partially, and optionally completely, layer by layer. The extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object can therefore be carried out using the device at least partially, and optionally completely, layer by layer. The device is accordingly configured for the extrusion-based processing of at least one extrusion material, i.e., for extruding at least one extrusion material onto a substrate. An extrusion material is typically understood to be an extrudable or extrudable plastic material.An extrusion material that can be processed using the extrusion equipment is therefore typically a thermoplastic extrudable or extrudable plastic material. In particular, thermoplastic extrudable or extrudable plastic materials are relevant. The term "plastic material" can also include mixtures of at least two chemically different plastic materials and / or mixtures of at least one plastic material with at least one other material, such as a filler material.

[0011] The device typically comprises at least one extrusion unit, which is configured for melting or plasticizing a corresponding extrusion material and for applying the molten extrusion material, in particular in a web or strand form, to a substrate, such as a building platform or an object, or to a layer or layer already applied to a substrate, which may optionally also be a single web or strand of material. The extrusion unit is specifically configured to apply a molten extrusion material continuously or quasi-continuously, i.e., in a continuous or quasi-continuous web or strand of material or melt, to a substrate.

[0012] The extrusion unit can be mounted so as to be movable in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to a base and / or a three-dimensional object. The extrusion unit can therefore be associated with a drive device, in particular a motor, by which a drive force or corresponding drive torque can be generated to move the extrusion unit in a translational and / or rotational motion relative to a base and / or a three-dimensional object. Such a drive device can be part of a mounting device that is designed to mount the extrusion unit so as to be movable in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to a base and / or a three-dimensional object. Such a mounting device can therefore, for example, be...be designed as, or include, a single- or multi-axis robotic device.

[0013] A corresponding extrusion unit typically comprises at least one extruder chamber, at least one extruder screw arranged in the extruder chamber and defining an extruder axis, and at least one, in particular nozzle-like or -shaped, discharge area through which extrusion material melted by the extrusion unit can be discharged onto a substrate. A corresponding discharge area typically comprises at least one, in particular nozzle-like or -shaped, discharge opening through which extrusion material melted by the extrusion unit can be discharged onto a substrate.

[0014] The extruder chamber is typically formed by a one- or multi-part extruder chamber assembly that defines and delimits the chamber. The extruder chamber assembly typically comprises one or more extruder chamber walls that define and delimit the chamber. The extruder chamber can have differently functionalized areas or zones, such as a filling area where the extruder chamber is filled with extrusion material to be melted, a melting area where the extrusion material is melted, and an exit area through which the molten extrusion material can be discharged onto a substrate by means of the extrusion unit. The exit area can be located in or formed within a die section of the extruder chamber (assembly).

[0015] The aforementioned components of the extrusion unit can be coupled together to form an extrusion assembly or can be coupled together during operation of the extrusion unit.

[0016] The device further comprises a hardware- and / or software-implemented device which is designed to acquire parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device, as well as to generate location and / or time information describing a location and / or time of acquisition of the corresponding parameter information.

[0017] The device thus allows for the acquisition of parameter information relating to process parameters of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out using the device (i.e., parameters that directly or indirectly describe an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out using the device), and / or to object parameters of a three-dimensional object to be produced or is produced using the device (i.e., parameters that directly or indirectly describe a three-dimensional object to be produced or is produced using the device). Using corresponding parameter information—which may, for example, be data that can be processed—it is therefore possible to analyze both manufacturing processes that can be carried out using the device and / or the object that can be produced using the device.The description includes both three-dimensional objects that are manufactured or produced via a manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out using the device, and which are at least partially, or if necessary completely, described.

[0018] Examples of process parameters that can be detected by the device are explained in more detail below (this list is not exhaustive): A corresponding process parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or at least one physical parameter of a process chamber in which an extrusion-based manufacturing process, which can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device, takes place. A corresponding chemical parameter of a process chamber can, in particular, be the chemical composition of an atmosphere prevailing within the process chamber, especially a gaseous atmosphere. Naturally, a corresponding chemical parameter can be the gradient of an atmosphere prevailing within the process chamber, especially a gaseous atmosphere. A corresponding physical parameter of a process chamber can, in particular, be the pressure or temperature prevailing within the process chamber.Naturally, a corresponding physical parameter can be a gradient of pressure or temperature prevailing within the process space.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or physical parameter of at least one extrusion material usable or used within the framework of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device. A corresponding chemical parameter of an extrusion material can, in particular, be a chemical composition of an extrusion material. Naturally, a corresponding chemical parameter can be a gradient of a chemical composition of an extrusion material. A corresponding geometric parameter of an extrusion material, in particular of an extrusion material web applied to a substrate, i.e., in particular a corresponding material or melt web or a corresponding material or...A melt strand can be, in particular, a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or a shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of an extruded material, in particular a material or melt sheet or a material or melt strand applied to a substrate. Naturally, a corresponding geometric parameter can be a gradient of a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or a shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of an extruded material, in particular a material or melt sheet or a material or melt strand applied to a substrate. A corresponding physical parameter of an extruded material can be, in particular, a density, a strength, a temperature, a surface finish, or a viscosity of the extruded material.Naturally, a corresponding physical parameter can be a gradient of density, strength, temperature, surface texture, or viscosity of an extrusion material.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe a parameter, in particular a movement parameter, possibly local and / or temporal, of a movement path of the extrusion unit and / or of a material or melt web applied to a substrate via the extrusion unit or of a material or melt strand applied to a substrate.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe a parameter of a substrate, such as a construction platform. A corresponding parameter of a substrate can be, in particular, a temperature or a surface finish. Naturally, a corresponding parameter can also be a temperature or surface finish gradient of a substrate.

[0022] Examples of object parameters that can be detected using the device are explained in more detail below (this list is not exhaustive): A corresponding object parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or at least one physical parameter of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or manufactured using the device. A corresponding chemical parameter can, in particular, be a chemical composition of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or manufactured using the device. Naturally, a corresponding chemical parameter can also be a gradient of the chemical composition of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or manufactured using the device.A corresponding geometric parameter can be, in particular, a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device. Naturally, a corresponding geometric parameter can be a gradient of a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or a shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device. A corresponding physical parameter can be, in particular, a density, a mass, a surface finish, or a strength of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device.Naturally, a corresponding physical parameter can also be a gradient of density, mass, surface texture or strength of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device.

[0023] As mentioned, the system is designed not only to capture relevant parameter information but also to generate location and / or time information, such as location and / or time coordinates, which describe the location and / or time of capture for a given parameter. The system is also typically configured to assign location and / or time information to a given parameter. Thus, the system allows for the generation and assignment of corresponding location and / or time information to each captured parameter. Each parameter can therefore be provided with a "location and / or time stamp," indicating where and when the respective parameter was captured. The location can be determined via parameters such as...Coordinates are described which define a unique position of the location in a spatial volume, i.e., in particular in a construction volume of the device or in a volume of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device.

[0024] The device can therefore comprise, on the one hand, a hardware- and / or software-implemented acquisition device, which is configured to acquire parameter information which, as mentioned, relates to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device, and, on the other hand, a hardware- and / or software-implemented assignment device, which is configured to assign location and / or time information to a corresponding parameter information, which describes a respective acquisition location and / or acquisition time of a corresponding parameter information.

[0025] The device thus enables meaningful process monitoring and evaluation, which can take into account both relevant process parameters and relevant object parameters. This allows for the creation of a spatially and / or temporally resolved digital representation of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out using the device, as well as a spatially and / or temporally resolved digital representation of a three-dimensional object that is to be produced or has been produced using a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been produced using the device. In particular, the ability to generate or assign corresponding spatial and / or temporal information to respective parameter information provides a meaningful representation of a manufacturing process or the (successive) construction of a three-dimensional object, since the manufacturing process can be observed, possibly in real time.the (successive) construction of a three-dimensional object allows for spatially and / or temporally resolved reconstruction.

[0026] Overall, this represents an improved device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object.

[0027] As mentioned, the device can include a detection device comprising at least one detection element configured to detect parameter information. In particular, the detection device can be designed as a sensor device comprising at least one sensor element configured to detect parameter information.

[0028] A corresponding detection device can be specifically designed, for example, as an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal detection device, which includes at least one detection element for the acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal detection of parameter information. The detection device can therefore, in particular, be designed as an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal sensor device, which includes an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal sensor element. An acoustic detection or sensor element can, for example, be a sound element, in particular an ultrasonic sensor element; an optical detection or sensor element can, for example, be an image acquisition element, such as a CCD sensor element, a pixel sensor element, etc.; a thermal detection or sensor element can, for example, be a temperature detection element, such as an infrared sensor element. In principle, all detection or sensor elements can be used.Sensor elements are used which enable the acquisition of corresponding parameter information, so that, by way of example, reference is made to electromagnetic detection or sensor elements.

[0029] Naturally, the system, the data acquisition system, or an evaluation system implemented in hardware and / or software associated with the data acquisition system can be configured to generate corresponding parameter information based on the signals supplied by the respective data acquisition or sensor elements. Such an evaluation system can form a hardware and / or software component of the system.

[0030] Regarding the arrangement of the equipment, i.e., in particular a corresponding recording device, there are basically two different possibilities. The equipment or a corresponding recording device can either be stationary and therefore immovable or fixed in position, or mobile and therefore movable or not fixed in position.

[0031] In the stationary version, the device or a corresponding detection device can be arranged or formed directly or indirectly on a stationary component of the device, such as a housing structure, a construction platform, etc.

[0032] In the non-stationary variant, the device or a corresponding detection device can be arranged or formed directly or indirectly on a non-stationary and thus movable component of the device, such as on or in a movable arm of a storage or robotic device, or on or in the extrusion unit, which, as mentioned, is movable, whereby it is not itself (actively) movable relative to the non-stationary component of the device. Movements of the device or the corresponding detection device typically result from the movements of the movable component of the device.

[0033] Similarly, in the non-stationary variant, the device or a corresponding detection device can be arranged or formed directly or indirectly on or in a stationary component of the device, such as a housing structure, a build platform, etc., wherein it is arranged or formed to be movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to the stationary component of the device. Movements of the device or the corresponding detection device typically result from the (active) movements of the device or the detection device relative to the stationary component of the device.

[0034] Similarly, in the non-stationary variant, the device or a corresponding detection device can be arranged or configured directly or indirectly on or in a non-stationary and thus movably mounted component of the device, such as on or in a movably mounted arm of a storage or robotic device, or on or in the extrusion unit, which, as mentioned, is movably mounted. However, it is additionally arranged or configured to be movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to the non-stationary and thus movably mounted component of the device. Movements of the device or the corresponding detection device typically result from the (active) movements of the movably mounted component of the device and / or from the (active) movements of the device or the detection device relative to the movably mounted component of the device.The corresponding detection device can be movable either dependently or independently of movements of the movable component of the device relative to it. In this way, combined or superimposed movements of the device or a corresponding detection device can be realized, resulting from a combination of one or more movements of the movable component of the device, e.g., relative to a surface, and, on the other hand, one or more movements of the device or the corresponding detection device that is movable on or in the respective movable component of the device, e.g., relative to the movable component of the device.

[0035] In other words, the device or a corresponding detection device, in all non-stationary variants, can be movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to a stationary and therefore immovably mounted component of the device, and / or movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to a non-stationary and therefore movablely mounted component of the device. The corresponding degrees of freedom of the respective non-stationary components of the device and the device or the corresponding detection device can be translational and / or rotational. In principle, corresponding movements of the device or the detection device can result in changes in orientation, particularly with an unchanged position, or changes in position, particularly with an unchanged orientation, of the device or the detection device.to be implemented by the corresponding recording device.

[0036] In principle, for the non-stationary variant, movements of the detection device can be carried out based on control data, i.e., in particular, motion data, from the extrusion unit. Movements of the detection devices can therefore directly or indirectly follow movements of the extrusion unit, which are described by corresponding control or motion data.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the movements of the detection device to be based on other data, i.e., on data relating to specific chemical and / or physical parameters, such as a potentially changing temperature of, for example, a substrate, or a changing chemical atmosphere, e.g., due to outgassing from an extruded material. In a concrete example, the detection device can thus be moved, for instance, following a specific temperature profile. The corresponding data can be acquired by the detection device itself, its associated detection elements, or by a separate detection device.

[0038] In the aforementioned embodiment, in which the device or a corresponding detection device is arranged or formed on or in the extrusion unit, the device or a corresponding detection device, i.e., in particular at least one detection element belonging to the detection device, can be arranged or formed in the area of ​​an outlet area of ​​the extrusion unit, in particular a nozzle-like or nozzle-shaped outlet. As also mentioned, the extrusion unit typically comprises an extruder chamber, an extruder screw arranged in the extruder chamber, and an outlet area, in particular a nozzle-like or nozzle-shaped outlet, through which extrusion material melted by the extrusion unit can be discharged onto a substrate. Such an arrangement or formation of the device or a corresponding detection device in the area of ​​an outlet area, in particular a nozzle-like or nozzle-shaped outlet, allows for the detection of the extrusion material.In the -shaped exit area of ​​the extrusion unit, relevant parameter information can be acquired directly at the material discharge point. Depending on the specific arrangement and orientation of the device or the corresponding acquisition device, and depending on the specific movement path of the extrusion unit, parameter information can be acquired, for example, before and / or after a material or melt web being applied to a substrate by the extrusion unit, or a material or melt strand being applied to a substrate by the device. This can provide highly relevant and informative data for the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0039] In this context, the device or a corresponding detection device, i.e., in particular a detection element, can be arranged or designed to be movable in the area of ​​the exit area, particularly in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to the exit area. Translational movements of the device or the corresponding detection device, i.e., in particular a detection element, can occur, in particular, along a translational axis defined by the extruder axis or a translational axis oriented perpendicularly, i.e., in particular at right angles, to the extruder axis. Rotational movements of the device or the corresponding detection device, i.e., in particular a detection element, can occur, in particular, about a rotational axis defined by the extruder axis or a rotational axis oriented perpendicularly, i.e., in particular at right angles, to the extruder axis.

[0040] Parameter information can be acquired, e.g., ahead of and / or behind a material or melt web being applied to a substrate by means of the extrusion unit, or a material or melt strand being applied to a substrate by means of the device, through corresponding movements of the device or the corresponding detection device, i.e., in particular a detection element. Information regarding the longitudinal extent of a corresponding material or melt strand can also be acquired.

[0041] Lateral acquisition of parameter information along the melt path or a corresponding material or melt strand is conceivable. Thus, parameter information, particularly simultaneously with the movement of the extrusion unit along a path following the cross-section of a three-dimensional object to be produced, in which a material or melt path or a material or melt strand is applied to a substrate, can be acquired in one or more orientations and / or positions around the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit, so that highly relevant and meaningful information can be obtained with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0042] The device, or a corresponding data acquisition device, comprises several data acquisition elements. These elements are arranged in a data acquisition element arrangement, in particular an array. An array can, for example, be a planar or ring-shaped structure. In this way, a data acquisition area, in particular a planar or ring-shaped area, can be defined. Within such a data acquisition area, each data acquisition element can be assigned to at least one sub-area in order to acquire corresponding parameter information in that sub-area.

[0043] The movable mounting of the device or a corresponding detection device can, in all embodiments, be realized by means of at least one drive device, in particular a motor, which can be directly or indirectly assigned or associated with the device or the corresponding detection device and which is configured to generate a driving force or corresponding drive torque that sets the device or the corresponding detection device into motion in at least one degree of freedom. Furthermore, a guide device can be assigned or associated with the device or a corresponding detection device, which comprises one or more guide elements, each of which defines at least one path of motion or at least one degree of freedom along which or in which the device or a corresponding detection device can be moved.

[0044] It should be noted here that the system, or a hardware- and / or software-implemented plausibility check device attributable to or associated with the system, may be configured to, for example, verify parameter information supplied by different acquisition elements with regard to at least one plausibility criterion. For instance, parameter information supplied by one acquisition element, such as temperature information, can be compared with parameter information supplied by another acquisition element, also such as temperature information, and the comparison result can be validated with regard to at least one plausibility criterion, such as a specific absolute or relative deviation, a reference value, etc. Such a plausibility check device can constitute a hardware- and / or software component of the system.

[0045] The detection ranges of the respective detection elements can overlap, at least partially, and possibly completely. Therefore, within a corresponding overlapping area, several parameter pieces of information, potentially identical, similar, or different in their informational content, can be recorded by multiple, possibly different, detection elements, thus enabling the acquisition of highly relevant and meaningful information for the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0046] The detection elements can be operated either continuously or, to ensure that only relevant parameter information is captured, based on at least one location criterion (e.g., static or dynamic), i.e., only when one or more detection elements are in a specific orientation and / or position; and / or based on at least one time criterion (e.g., static or dynamic), i.e., only at specific times; and / or based on a static or dynamic movement criterion of the extrusion unit (e.g., only when the extrusion unit is moving along an extrusion material web). The respective location and / or time criteria can be determined, for example, based on the construction data of a three-dimensional object to be produced.

[0047] The device can be configured to generate one or more image information sets describing a one- or multi-dimensional representation of corresponding parameter information. The term "image information" encompasses not only image files, but also any file or file content from which corresponding one- or multi-dimensional representations of corresponding parameter information can be created directly or indirectly through data processing. The device can therefore be configured to process corresponding parameter information and / or corresponding location and / or time information into a one- or multi-dimensional representation of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out using the device, and / or of a three-dimensional object that can be produced or has been produced using the device.A corresponding image can include the aforementioned spatially and / or temporally resolved representation of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device, or of the structure of a three-dimensional object that can be produced or has been produced by means of the device, which can enable the aforementioned spatially and / or temporally resolved reconstruction of the manufacturing process or the structure of the three-dimensional object.

[0048] The device may further comprise at least one output device configured to output corresponding image information to or via an output element. The term "output" here refers both to the display of corresponding image information on an output element comprising a display area, such as a screen, and to the wired or wireless data transmission of corresponding image information via an output element comprising a data transmission interface. Corresponding image information—the same applies to corresponding parameter information along with its associated location and / or time information—may, for example, be transmitted to an external communication partner, such as a computer, for the purpose of further evaluation or processing, or simply for storage, such as for archiving or documenting a manufacturing process.an external data processing facility and / or an external data storage device.

[0049] The device, or a hardware and / or software comparison device attributable to or associated with the device, can be configured to compare relevant parameter information with at least one, in particular corresponding, reference parameter information and to generate comparison information describing the respective comparison result. Based on the respective comparison information, meaningful statements can be made, particularly with spatial and / or temporal resolution, about the quality of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out using the device and / or of a three-dimensional object that can be produced or has been produced using the device, so that highly relevant and meaningful information can be obtained with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0050] The device may include a control unit implemented in hardware and / or software, which is configured to control the operation of the device, in particular the operation of the device's extrusion unit or a storage device of the device that holds the extrusion unit. The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the device, in particular the operation of the device's extrusion unit or a storage device of the device that holds the extrusion unit, based on corresponding parameter information and / or on corresponding comparative information. Thus, corresponding parameter information or comparative information can form the basis for controlling the operation of the device, in particular the operation of the device's extrusion unit or a storage device of the device that holds the extrusion unit.This can also include the possibility of adjusting certain operating parameters of the device, particularly in real time or generally during operation, at least temporarily, based on relevant parameter information or comparison data. This adjustment might be necessary to compensate for detected deviations in a specific process parameter and / or object parameter. Similarly, process parameters and / or object parameters can be adjusted or changed, for example, to compensate for detected deviations in a specific process parameter and / or object parameter. Specifically, such an adjustment could involve, for example, at least a temporary adjustment or change to the movement path of the extrusion unit or a support device within the device that holds the extrusion unit.This includes changing the application or discharge quantity of extrusion material onto a substrate, or at least temporarily adjusting or modifying a movement profile, in particular a movement path, movement speed, etc., of a support device of the apparatus that holds the extrusion unit. Thus, for example, movements and / or application or discharge quantities of the extrusion unit can be adjusted in-situ during operation based on corresponding parameter information and / or based on corresponding comparative information during the operation of the apparatus, i.e., particularly during a construction process.

[0051] In this context, the basic principle is that, based on appropriate parameter information and / or on appropriate comparison information, control data for the operation of the device, i.e., in particular the extrusion unit, are adapted or even newly generated.

[0052] The device can include a temperature control unit associated with the device, i.e., in particular a corresponding sensing device, and further, in particular, at least one corresponding sensing element, which is configured for temperature control, in particular for cooling, of the device. The ability to temperature control the device, i.e., in particular a corresponding sensing device, and further, in particular, at least one corresponding sensing element, ensures the intended operation of the device, i.e., in particular the intended acquisition of relevant parameter information, even under adverse thermal conditions, i.e., in particular at high temperatures, e.g., due to the process. Furthermore, thermally induced failures or damage to the sensing device or a sensing element can be avoided.A suitable temperature control device can generally be set up for active or passive temperature control of the detection device or a detection element.

[0053] Specifically, a corresponding temperature control device can be designed, for example, as a heat exchanger, which may also be referred to as a heat transfer device, or comprise such a device. The temperature control device can thus be configured, for example, to absorb thermal energy of a first energy level from the detection device via a (first) temperature control fluid flowing along the detection device or at least one detection element – ​​this fluid may be a gas or a liquid – and transfer this energy to a temperature control structure, i.e., a cooling fin structure, and / or, optionally via an interposed heat transfer structure, to a further temperature control fluid.

[0054] The heat exchanger device can comprise at least two flow channel structures. A first flow channel structure through which a first temperature control fluid, i.e., a gas, flows, can extend, for example, through a first volume in which the device, i.e., in particular at least one sensing element of a corresponding sensing device, is arranged or formed. A second flow channel structure through which a second temperature control fluid, i.e., a liquid, flows, can extend through a second volume separated from the first volume by a heat transfer structure, in particular a wall structure. The second volume can, for example, be formed by groove-like recesses, which are closed by at least one, e.g., plate-like or -shaped, end or end element.The cover element, on which one or more discharge and / or supply elements for the discharge and / or supply of a temperature control fluid can be arranged or formed, is covered. This configuration of the heat exchanger device with at least two separate, but thermally coupled or coupled flow channel structures enables efficient dissipation of thermal energy and thus efficient cooling of the respective sensor elements.

[0055] Each flow channel structure can be assigned one or more flow-generating devices, i.e., blowers and / or pumps, which enable the circulation of the respective temperature control fluid through the volumes associated with the flow channel structures. The operation of the respective flow-generating devices can be controlled or regulated based on temperature information generated by a temperature sensor.

[0056] The first volume can be, for example, a chamber-like or chamber-shaped first volume of a housing assembly of a corresponding detection device, on or in which at least one corresponding detection element is arranged or formed. The second volume, also, for example, chamber-like or chamber-shaped, can be a second volume of a corresponding housing assembly, which is separated from the first volume by a wall structure serving as a heat transfer structure, so that thermal energy can be transferred, but the temperature control fluids flowing through the respective volumes cannot mix.

[0057] A corresponding housing assembly can also include a third volume, which communicates with the first volume through which the first temperature control fluid flows, e.g., via at least one opening, and which can also be, for example, chamber-like or chamber-shaped. At least one temperature control structure, i.e., a cooling fin structure, can be arranged or formed in the third volume, which is thermally coupled to the second volume through which the second temperature control fluid flows via a wall structure serving as a heat transfer structure. This configuration can increase the efficiency of thermal energy transfer.

[0058] The foregoing statements apply in particular to an embodiment in which the device or the detection device is arranged or designed on or in a non-stationary and thus movably mounted component of the device, such as on or in a movably mounted arm of the robot device or on or in the movably mounted extrusion unit, i.e. in particular in the area of ​​the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit.

[0059] It follows from the foregoing that the device or the detection device can generally be arranged on or in a housing assembly that defines at least one chamber-like volume. Such a housing assembly can be arranged on or in a movable component of the device, such as on or in a movable arm of a robot assembly or on or in the movable extrusion unit, i.e., particularly in the area of ​​the extrusion unit's exit point. Such a housing assembly can have an opening through which the extrusion unit can pass, or through which, for example, if the extrusion unit is arranged above the housing assembly, extrusion material to be applied to a substrate can pass.

[0060] It was mentioned that a detection element can be arranged or configured in the area of ​​the exit area and be movable in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to the exit area. Rotational movements of a detection element can, as also mentioned, occur around a rotational axis oriented perpendicular to, and thus transverse to, the extruder axis. At least one detection element can, for example, be pivotally mounted, which makes it possible to align the detection area of ​​the detection element directly with, or an area below, the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit in order to capture parameter information in this area.

[0061] However, regardless of the possibility of moving the corresponding detection elements in one or more degrees of freedom, it is also conceivable that the detection elements are arranged or aligned with a respective detection area that is directed towards the area below the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit. The detection area of ​​the respective detection elements can therefore be aligned or is specifically directed towards an area below the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit. In this way, parameter information in this area can be captured particularly well.

[0062] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. The method comprises the following steps: acquiring at least one parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based production process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device, as well as generating location and / or time information describing the acquisition location and / or acquisition time of the corresponding parameter information.

[0063] All statements relating to the device according to the first aspect of the invention apply analogously to the method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0064] The method can therefore include, for example, the step of controlling the operation of the device, i.e., in particular the extrusion unit of the device or a storage or robotic device of the device that holds the extrusion unit, based on corresponding parameter information and / or on the basis of corresponding comparison information.

[0065] The invention is explained again with reference to exemplary embodiments in the drawings. These show: Fig. 1 - 5 Each diagram shows a schematic representation of a device for the extrusion-based production of a three-dimensional object according to various embodiments; and Fig. 6 - 10 Each diagram shows a schematic representation of a housing assembly of a device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a device 1 for the extrusion-based production of a three-dimensional object (not shown) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] The device 1 is thus configured for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, i.e., in particular for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object via an at least partial, optionally complete, layer-by-layer extrusion-based build-up of a corresponding three-dimensional object. The extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object can therefore be carried out at least partially, optionally completely, layer-by-layer using the device 1. The device 1 is accordingly configured for the extrusion-based processing of at least one extrusion material, i.e., for extruding at least one extrusion material onto a substrate. An extrusion material is typically understood to be an extrudable or extrudable plastic material.

[0068] The device 1 comprises an extrusion unit 2, which is configured for melting or plasticizing a corresponding extrusion material and for applying, in particular in a web-like or strand-like manner, a molten extrusion material to a substrate, such as a build platform 3 or an object, or to a layer or layer already applied to a substrate, which may optionally also be understood to be only a single web or strand of material. The extrusion unit 2 is specifically configured to apply a molten extrusion material continuously or quasi-continuously, i.e., in a continuous or quasi-continuous web or strand of material or melt, to a substrate.

[0069] The extrusion unit 2 must be mounted so as to be movable in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to a substrate. Examples of translational degrees of freedom for the extrusion unit 2 are translational movements along one or more axes of the substrate. Fig. 1 In the coordinate system shown, exemplary rotational degrees of freedom of the extrusion unit 2. Rotation axes are rotational movements about one or more of the axes of the in Fig. 1 shown coordinate system.

[0070] As in Fig. 1 As indicated, the extrusion unit 2 can be assigned a drive unit, in particular a motor, by means of which a drive force or corresponding drive torque can be generated to move the extrusion unit 2 in a translational and / or rotational motion along a surface relative to a substrate. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the drive unit 4 forms part of a bearing unit 5, which is designed to movably support the extrusion unit 2 in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to a substrate. The bearing unit 5, shown purely schematically in the figures, can, for example, be designed as or comprise a single- or multi-axis robotic system.

[0071] As in Fig. 1 As indicated, the extrusion unit 2 comprises an extruder chamber 2.1 bounded or defined by one or more extruder chamber walls, an extruder screw 2.2 arranged in the extruder chamber 2.1 and defining an extruder axis A1, and an outlet area 2.3, in particular nozzle-like or -shaped, through which extrusion material melted in the extruder chamber 2.1 can be discharged onto a substrate by means of the extrusion unit 2. The outlet area 2.3 comprises an outlet opening 2.4, in particular nozzle-like or -shaped, through which extrusion material melted by means of the extrusion unit 2 can be discharged onto a substrate.

[0072] The extruder chamber 2.1 can have differently functionalized areas or zones, such as a filling area in which the extruder chamber 2.2 is filled with extrusion material to be melted, a melting area in which the extrusion material to be melted in the extruder chamber 2.1 is melted, and the aforementioned discharge area 2.3, through which molten extrusion material can be discharged onto a substrate by means of the extrusion unit 2.

[0073] The aforementioned components of the extrusion unit 2 can be coupled together to form an extrusion assembly or can be coupled together during operation of the extrusion unit.

[0074] The device 1 further comprises a hardware- and / or software-implemented device 6, which is designed to acquire parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device 1 and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device 1, as well as to generate location and / or time information describing a location and / or time of acquisition of the corresponding parameter information.

[0075] Device 6 can thus be used to capture parameter information relating to process parameters of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is being carried out using Device 1 (i.e., parameters that directly or indirectly describe an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is being carried out using Device 1) and / or object parameters of a three-dimensional object that can be produced or is being produced using an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is being produced using Device 1 (i.e., parameters that directly or indirectly describe a three-dimensional object that can be produced or is being produced using Device 1). This information can be obtained by means of corresponding parameter data – which may include, for example,Since the data can be processed using data processing methods, both manufacturing processes that can be carried out or are carried out by means of the device 1, and three-dimensional objects that can be manufactured or produced by means of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device 1, can be described at least partially, and possibly completely.

[0076] The corresponding process parameters detectable by means of device 6 can, for example, relate to the following process parameters: A process parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or at least one physical parameter of a process chamber in which an extrusion-based manufacturing process, which can be carried out or has been carried out by means of device 1, takes place. A corresponding chemical parameter of a process chamber can, in particular, be a chemical composition of an atmosphere prevailing within the process chamber, especially a gas atmosphere. A corresponding chemical parameter can also be a gradient of an atmosphere prevailing within the process chamber, especially a gas atmosphere. A corresponding physical parameter of a process chamber can, in particular, be a pressure or a temperature prevailing within the process chamber.A corresponding physical parameter can also be a gradient of pressure or temperature prevailing within the process space.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or physical parameter of at least one extrusion material usable or used in an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device 1. A corresponding chemical parameter of an extrusion material can, in particular, be a chemical composition of an extrusion material. A corresponding chemical parameter can also be a gradient of a chemical composition of an extrusion material. A corresponding geometric parameter of an extrusion material, in particular of an extrusion material web applied to a substrate, can, in particular, be a dimension, in particular a height, length, width, and / or a shape, in particular a cross-sectional shape, of an extrusion material, in particular of a material or substrate applied to a substrate.A corresponding geometric parameter can also be a gradient of a dimension, in particular a height, length, width, and / or a shape, in particular a cross-sectional shape, of an extruded material, in particular a material or melt sheet applied to a substrate, or a material or melt sheet applied to a substrate. A corresponding physical parameter of an extruded material can in particular be a density, a strength, a temperature, a surface finish, or a viscosity of the extruded material. A corresponding physical parameter can also be a gradient of a density, a strength, a temperature, a surface finish, or a viscosity of the extruded material.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe a parameter, in particular a movement parameter, possibly local and / or temporal, of a movement path of the extrusion unit 2 and / or of a material or melt web applied to a substrate via the extrusion unit 2 or of a material or melt strand applied to a substrate.

[0079] Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding process parameter can describe a parameter of a substrate, such as the building platform 3. A corresponding parameter of a substrate can, in particular, be a temperature or a surface condition of the substrate. A corresponding parameter can also be a temperature or surface condition gradient of a substrate.

[0080] The object parameters detectable by device 6 can, for example, relate to the following: A corresponding object parameter can describe at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or at least one physical parameter of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by device 1. A corresponding chemical parameter can, in particular, be a chemical composition of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by device 1. A corresponding chemical parameter can also be a gradient of the chemical composition of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by device 1.A corresponding geometric parameter can be, in particular, a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device 1. A corresponding geometric parameter can also be a gradient of a dimension, especially a height, length, width, and / or a shape, especially a cross-sectional shape, of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device 1. A corresponding physical parameter can be, in particular, a density, a mass, a surface finish, or a strength of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device 1.A corresponding physical parameter can also be a gradient of density, mass, surface texture or strength of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced by means of the device 1.

[0081] As mentioned, device 6 is designed not only to capture relevant parameter information but also to generate location and / or time information, such as location and / or time coordinates, which describe the location and / or time of capture for a given parameter. Device 6 is specifically designed to assign location and / or time information describing the location and / or time of capture to a given parameter. Therefore, device 6 can be used to generate and assign corresponding descriptive location and / or time information to each captured parameter. Each parameter can thus be provided with a "location and / or time stamp" in the data processing system, indicating where and when the respective parameter information was captured.The location can be described via parameters, such as coordinates, which define a unique position of the location in a spatial volume, i.e., in particular in a construction volume of the device 1.

[0082] The device 6 can therefore comprise, on the one hand, a hardware and / or software-implemented acquisition device 7, which is configured to acquire parameter information, and, on the other hand, a hardware and / or software-implemented assignment device 8, which is configured to assign a location and / or time information to a corresponding parameter information, which describes a respective acquisition location and / or acquisition time of a corresponding parameter information.

[0083] Thus, by means of device 6, meaningful process monitoring and evaluation can be implemented, which can take into account both relevant process parameters and relevant object parameters, so that a spatially and / or temporally resolved data representation of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of device 1, as well as a spatially and / or temporally resolved data representation of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been produced by means of device 1, can be obtained. In particular, the possibility of generating or assigning corresponding spatial and / or temporal information to respective parameter information provides a meaningful representation of a manufacturing process or the (successive) construction of a three-dimensional object, since the manufacturing process or the parameter information can be displayed, possibly in real time.the (successive) construction of a three-dimensional object allows for spatially and / or temporally resolved reconstruction.

[0084] The acquisition device 7 can comprise one or more acquisition elements 7.1 configured for acquiring parameter information. The acquisition device 7 can, in particular, be configured as a sensor device, such that the acquisition elements 7.1 can each be configured as sensor elements.

[0085] Specifically, the detection device 7 can be configured, for example, as an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal detection device, which includes at least one detection or sensor element for the acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal detection of parameter information. The detection device 7 can therefore, in particular, be configured as an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal sensor device, which includes an acoustic and / or optical and / or thermal sensor element. An acoustic detection or sensor element can, for example, be a sound element, in particular an ultrasonic sensor element; an optical detection or sensor element can, for example, be an image acquisition element, such as a CCD sensor element, a pixel sensor element, etc.; a thermal detection or sensor element can, for example, be a temperature detection element, such as an infrared sensor element. In principle, all detection or sensor elements can be configured as acoustic and / or optical sensor elements.Sensor elements are used which enable the acquisition of corresponding parameter information.

[0086] Naturally, the device 6, the acquisition device 7, or an optionally hardware- and / or software-implemented evaluation device 9 assigned to the acquisition device 7 can be configured to generate corresponding parameter information based on the signals supplied by the respective acquisition or sensor elements. If present, a corresponding evaluation device 9 can form a hardware- and / or software component of the device 6.

[0087] The device 6, or a hardware- and / or software-implemented plausibility check device 16 that can optionally be assigned to or associated with the device 6, may also be configured to, for example, check parameter information supplied by different acquisition elements 7.1 of the acquisition device 7 with regard to at least one plausibility check criterion. For example, parameter information supplied by a first acquisition element 7.1, such as temperature information, may be compared with parameter information supplied by another acquisition element 7.1, such as temperature information, and the comparison result may be checked with regard to at least one plausibility check criterion, such as a specific absolute or relative deviation, a reference value, etc. A corresponding plausibility check device 16 may, if present, form a hardware- and / or software component of the device 6.

[0088] Device 6 can be configured to generate one or more image information describing a one- or multi-dimensional representation based on corresponding parameter information. Device 6 can thus be configured to process corresponding parameter information and / or corresponding spatial and / or temporal information into a one- or multi-dimensional representation of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out using device 1, and / or of a three-dimensional object that can be manufactured or has been manufactured using the device. Such a representation can include the aforementioned spatially and / or temporally resolved depiction of a manufacturing process or the structure of a three-dimensional object, which can enable the aforementioned spatially and / or temporally resolved reconstruction of the manufacturing process or the structure of the three-dimensional object.

[0089] The device 1 can further comprise at least one output device 10, which is configured to output corresponding image information to or via an output element. The term "output" here refers both to the display of corresponding image information on an output element comprising a display area, such as a display, and to the wired or wireless data transmission of corresponding image information via an output element comprising a data transmission interface. Corresponding image information—the same applies to corresponding parameter information along with the associated location and / or time information—can, as indicated by arrow P1, be used, for example, for further evaluation or processing, or simply for storage, such as for archiving.Documentation of a manufacturing process carried out by means of the device 1 is to be realized and transmitted wired or wirelessly to an external communication partner 11, such as an external data processing device and / or an external data storage device. For the transmission of such information, the device 1 may include a data transmission device (not shown).

[0090] The device 6, or a hardware and / or software comparison device 12 attributable to or associated with the device 6, may further be configured to compare corresponding parameter information with at least one, in particular corresponding, reference parameter information and to generate comparison information describing a respective comparison result. Based on the respective comparison information, meaningful statements can be made, in particular with spatial and / or temporal resolution, about the quality of a manufacturing process that can be carried out or has been carried out by means of the device 1 and / or of a three-dimensional object that can be produced or has been produced by means of the device 1, so that highly relevant and meaningful information can be obtained with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0091] The device 1 can include a control unit 13 implemented in hardware and / or software, which is configured to control the operation of the device 1, in particular the operation of the extrusion unit 2 or the storage device 5 holding the extrusion unit 2. The control unit 13 can be configured, in particular, to control the operation of the device 1, in particular the operation of the extrusion unit 2 or the storage device 5 holding the extrusion unit 2, based on corresponding parameter information and / or on the basis of corresponding comparison information. Thus, corresponding parameter information or comparison information can form the basis for controlling the operation of the device 1, in particular the extrusion unit 2 or the storage device holding the extrusion unit 2. This can also include the possibility that, based on corresponding parameter information or comparison information,Comparative information, e.g., certain operating parameters of the device 1, can be adjusted, at least temporarily, particularly in real time, for example, to compensate for and / or offset detected deviations of a specific process parameter and / or object parameter. Likewise, process parameters and / or object parameters can be adjusted or changed, for example, to compensate for and / or offset detected deviations of a specific process parameter and / or object parameter. Specifically, such an adjustment could, for example, be at least a temporary adjustment or change to the movement path of the extrusion unit 2 or the storage device 5 supporting the extrusion unit 2, or at least a temporary adjustment or change to the application or discharge quantity of extrusion material onto a substrate, or at least a temporary adjustment or change to a movement profile, in particular a movement path, a movement speed, etc., which includes the extrusion unit 2 and the storage device 5.

[0092] Regarding the arrangement of the device 6, i.e., in particular the recording device 7, there are basically two different possibilities, which are explained below with reference to the information in the Fig. 2 - 5 The exemplary embodiments shown will be explained in more detail. The device 6 or the detection device 7 can be – as in the illustration in Fig. 1 The illustrated embodiment is shown – either stationary and therefore immovable or fixed in position or location, or – as in the illustrations in the Fig. 2 - 5 The illustrated embodiments are not stationary and therefore movable or not fixed in position or location.

[0093] In the Fig. 1 In the stationary variant shown, the device 6 or the detection device 7 can be arranged or formed directly or indirectly on a stationary component of the device 1, such as a housing structure 14, the construction platform 3, etc.

[0094] In the Fig. 2 - 5 In the non-stationary variant shown, the device 6 or the detection device 7 can be arranged or formed directly or indirectly on a non-stationary and thus movably mounted component of the device, such as on or in a movably mounted arm of a robot or on or in the, as mentioned, movably mounted extrusion unit 2, whereby it is not itself (actively) movably mounted relative to the non-stationary component of the device 1. Movements of the device 6 or the detection device 7 typically result from the movements of the movably mounted component of the device 1.

[0095] Likewise, in the non-stationary variant, the device 6 or the detection device 7 can be arranged or configured directly or indirectly on or in a stationary component of the device 1, such as the housing structure 14, the build platform 3, etc., wherein it is arranged or configured to be movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to the stationary component of the device 1. Movements of the device 6 or the detection device 7 typically result from the (active) movements of the device 6 or the detection device 7 relative to the stationary component of the device 1.

[0096] Similarly, as the Fig. 2 - 5 Each example shows the device 6 or the detection device 7 in the non-stationary variant on or in a non-stationary and thus movable component of the device 1, such as on or in a movable arm of the robot device or - as the Fig. 2 - 5 each of the following examples - are arranged or formed on or in the movably mounted extrusion unit 2, i.e. in particular in the area of ​​the exit area 2.3 of the extrusion unit 2.

[0097] In principle, for the non-stationary variant, movements of the detection device 7 can be carried out based on control data, i.e., in particular movement data, of the extrusion unit 2. Movements of the detection device 7 can therefore directly or indirectly follow movements of the extrusion unit 2, which are described by corresponding control or movement data.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for movements of the detection device 6 to be carried out based on other data, i.e., based on data from specific chemical and / or physical parameters, such as a potentially changing temperature of, for example, a substrate, or a changing chemical atmosphere, e.g., due to outgassing from an extrusion material, etc. The detection device 7 can thus be moved, for example, following a specific detected temperature profile. Corresponding data can be acquired by the detection device 7 or its associated detection elements 7.1, or by a separate detection device (not shown) for the detection device 7.

[0099] The in the Fig. 2 , 3 illustrated embodiment, wherein Fig. 2 a side view and Fig. 3 As shown in the diagram, the detection device 7 or a detection element 7.1 can be arranged or configured to be movable in at least one degree of freedom relative to the extrusion unit 2, which is itself mounted for movement. Movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can result from the (active) movements of the extrusion unit 2 and / or from the (active) movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 relative to the extrusion unit 2. The detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can be movable relative to the extrusion unit 2 either dependently or independently of its movements. In this way, combined or superimposed movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7 can be realized, resulting from a combination of one or more movements of the extrusion unit 2, e.g.,relative to a substrate, and on the other hand, one or more movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 which is movably mounted on or in the extrusion unit 2, e.g. relative to the extrusion unit 2.

[0100] For all corresponding embodiments, it applies that the respective non-stationary components of the device 1 and the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 have corresponding degrees of freedom of movement, as shown in Fig. 2 As indicated by the double arrows P2 and P3, the movements can involve translational and / or rotational degrees of freedom. Translational movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can occur, as indicated by double arrow P3, in particular along a translational axis defined by the extruder axis A2 or a translational axis oriented at an angle, i.e., in particular perpendicularly, to the extruder axis A1. Rotational movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can occur, as indicated by double arrow P2, in particular about a rotational axis defined by the extruder axis A1 or a rotational axis oriented at an angle, i.e., in particular perpendicularly, to the extruder axis A1. Therefore, in principle, corresponding movements of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can be achieved.1 both changes in orientation, especially with unchanged position, or changes in position, especially with unchanged orientation, of the detection device 7 or the detection element 7.1 can be implemented.

[0101] For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that in the Fig. 2 - 5 a corresponding melt track or melt strand 15 is shown. In addition, in Fig. 3 Arrow P4 represents an exemplary direction of movement of the extrusion unit 2; the dashed section of the melt track or melt strand 15 thus represents a future application of extrusion material onto a substrate, such as the build platform 3.

[0102] Based on the in Fig. 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, it can be seen that the detection device 7, as mentioned, comprises several detection elements 7.1. In the embodiment shown Fig. 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the detection elements 7.1 are arranged in a detection element arrangement, in particular forming an array. The array is located in the Fig. 4 The illustrated embodiment is a planar structure, which consists, for example, of four detection elements 7.1. The rectangular shape of the detection elements 7.1 is also to be understood as exemplary. By appropriately arranging the detection elements, a detection area, particularly a ring-shaped one, can be defined. Each detection element 7.1 can be assigned to at least one sub-area in order to capture corresponding parameter information in that sub-area.

[0103] Based on the in Fig. 5 The illustrated embodiment shows that the multiple detection elements 7.1 can also form an array in the form of a ring-shaped structure. A detection area, particularly a ring-shaped one, can be defined by a corresponding arrangement of the detection elements. Each detection element 7.1 can, in turn, be assigned to at least one sub-area in order to capture corresponding parameter information within that sub-area.

[0104] Based on the in the Fig. 2 - 5 As can be seen from the illustrated embodiments, depending on the specific arrangement or orientation of the detection device 7 or the respective detection elements 7.1 and depending on the specific movement path of the extrusion unit 2, e.g., leading and / or trailing a material or melt web or strand 15 to be applied to a substrate by means of the extrusion unit 2, parameter information is acquired. This can provide very relevant and meaningful information with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0105] A suitably configured acquisition device 7 can thus be used to acquire parameter information, e.g., upstream and / or downstream of a material or melt web or strand 15 to be applied to a substrate by means of the extrusion unit 2 or which has already been applied. Acquisition of parameter information laterally with respect to the longitudinal extent of a corresponding material or melt web or strand 15 is also conceivable.

[0106] Parameter information can be recorded, in particular simultaneously with a movement of the extrusion unit 2 along a movement path of the extrusion unit 2 following a cross-section of a three-dimensional object to be produced, in which a material or melt web or a material or melt strand 15 is applied to a substrate, in one or more orientations and / or positions around the extrusion unit 2 or the exit area 2.3 of the extrusion unit 2, so that very relevant and meaningful information can be obtained with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0107] The movable mounting of the detection device 7 can, in all embodiments, be implemented via at least one drive device (not shown) that is directly or indirectly attributable to or associated with the detection device 7, in particular a motor, which is configured to generate a drive force or corresponding drive torque that sets the detection device 7 into motion in at least one degree of freedom. The detection device 7 can also be associated with or associated with a guide device (not shown), which comprises one or more guide elements, each of which defines at least one path of movement or at least one degree of freedom along which or in which the detection device 7 is movable.

[0108] In principle, it should be noted that for exemplary embodiments of the detection device 7 with multiple detection elements 7.1, the detection ranges of the respective detection elements 7.1 can overlap at least partially, and possibly completely. Therefore, within a corresponding overlap area, several parameter pieces of information, identical, similar, or different in their information content, can be detected by several, possibly different, detection elements 7.1, so that highly relevant and meaningful information can be obtained with regard to the aforementioned process monitoring and evaluation.

[0109] The detection elements 7.1 can be operated either permanently or, for example to ensure that only relevant parameter information is recorded, based on at least one location criterion (e.g., static or dynamic), i.e., only when the detection elements 7.1 are in a specific orientation and / or position, and / or based on at least one time criterion (e.g., static or dynamic), i.e., only at specific times, and / or based on a static or dynamic movement criterion of the extrusion unit 2 (e.g., only when the extrusion unit 2 is moving along an extrusion material path). The respective location and / or time criteria can be determined, for example, based on construction data of a three-dimensional object to be produced.

[0110] The Fig. 6 bis 10 Each figure shows a schematic representation of a housing assembly 16 of a device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. The figures show... Fig. 6 - 9 each with different horizontally sectioned views and Fig. 10 a cross-sectional view of the housing assembly 16, which provides a view into the interior of the housing assembly 16.

[0111] Based on the Fig. 6 - 10 It is therefore evident that the device 1 can comprise a housing assembly 16, on or in which functional components of a detection device 7 can be arranged or formed. The housing assembly 16 defines one or more chamber-like volumes 16.1 - 16.3. The housing assembly 16 can be arranged or formed on a movable component of the device 1, such as on or in a movable arm of a robot or on or in the movable extrusion unit 2, i.e., in particular in the area of ​​the exit region of the extrusion unit 2.

[0112] Based on the Fig. 6 - 10 It is evident that the housing assembly 16 can have an opening 16.4 which can be passed through or penetrated by the extrusion unit 2, or through which, e.g., if the extrusion unit 2 is arranged above the housing assembly 16, a building material to be applied to a substrate can pass.

[0113] Based on the Fig. 6 - 10 It is further evident that the device 1 can include a temperature control device 17 associated with the detection device 7, i.e., in particular with the detection elements 7.1 belonging to the detection device 7, which is designed for temperature control, i.e., in particular for cooling, of the detection device 7 or the detection elements 7.1. The possibility of temperature control of the detection elements 7.1 ensures the intended operation of the detection device 7, i.e., in particular the intended acquisition of relevant parameter information, even under adverse thermal conditions, i.e., in particular at high temperatures. Furthermore, thermally induced failures or damage to the detection elements 7.1 can be avoided.

[0114] In the Fig. 6 - 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature control device 17 is designed as a heat exchanger device, which can also be described as a heat exchanger device. The temperature control device 17 is thus configured, for example, to absorb thermal energy of a first energy level from the detection elements 7.1 via a first temperature control fluid TF1 flowing along the detection elements 7.1 – this could be, for example, a gas such as air – and to transfer this energy to temperature control structures 17.1, designed, for example, as cooling fin structures, and, furthermore, via an intermediate wall-like or -shaped heat transfer structure 17.2, to a second temperature control fluid TF2, i.e., a liquid such as oil, water, etc.

[0115] In the exemplary embodiment, the heat exchanger assembly 17 comprises two flow channel structures. One in Fig. 9 A first flow channel structure, recognizable and through which the first temperature control fluid TF1 flows, extends through a first chamber volume 16.1 in which the detection elements 7.1 are arranged or formed. A second flow channel structure, through which the second temperature control fluid TF2 flows, extends through a second chamber volume 16.2, separated from the first chamber volume 16.1 by the heat transfer structure 17.2. Based on the Fig. 6, 7 It is evident that the second chamber volume 16.2 can be formed, for example, by groove-like recesses 17.3, which are covered on their upper side by a plate-like or plate-shaped end or cover element 17.4, on which one or more discharge elements 17.5 and / or supply elements 17.6 for the discharge and / or supply of the second temperature control fluid TF2 can be arranged or formed. This configuration of the heat exchanger device 17 with two separate, but thermally coupled or coupled flow channel structures enables efficient dissipation of thermal energy and thus efficient cooling of the sensor elements 7.1.

[0116] Each flow channel structure can be assigned one or more flow-generating devices 17.7, e.g., blowers and / or pumps, which enable the conveyance of the respective temperature control fluid TF1, TF2 through the space volumes 16.1–16.3 associated with the respective flow channel structures. A corresponding flow-generating device 17.7—configured, for example, as a blower—is shown in Fig. 9 Shown as an example of the flow channel structure through which the first temperature control fluid TF1 can flow.

[0117] Based on the Fig. 9 , 10 It is again evident that the first spatial volume 16.1 can be a chamber-like or chamber-shaped spatial volume of the housing assembly 16, on or in which the detection elements 7.1 can be arranged or formed. This, as Fig. 10 The second chamber-like or chamber-shaped volume 16.2 can also be a volume of the housing assembly 16, which, as mentioned, is separated from the first volume 16.1 by the wall structure 17.2 serving as a heat transfer structure, so that a transfer of thermal energy is possible, but there is no possibility of mixing the temperature control fluids TF1, TF2 flowing through the respective volumes 16.1, 16.2.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly 16 also comprises a first chamber volume 16.1 through which the first temperature control fluid TF1 can flow or is flowing, by means of a Fig. 8 recognizable opening 16.5 communicating, chamber-like or -shaped third volume 16.3. In the third volume 16.3 the aforementioned temperature control structures 17.1 are arranged, which are thermally coupled via the heat transfer structure 17.2 to the second volume 16.2 through which the second temperature control fluid TF2 flows.

[0119] In connection with the Fig. 6 - 9 It should also be noted that the housing assembly 16 may optionally have a connection opening 16.6, via which, for example, a data and / or supply cable (not shown) associated with the detection elements 7.1 can be connected.

[0120] In connection with all embodiments, it should be mentioned again that one or more detection elements 7.1 can be arranged or configured in the area of ​​the extrusion unit 2 and be movable in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom relative to the extrusion unit 2. As also mentioned, corresponding rotational movements can also occur about a rotational axis oriented perpendicular to, and thus transverse to, the extruder axis, so that one or more detection elements 7.1 can be pivotably mounted. This makes it possible to align the detection area of ​​the respective detection elements 7.1 directly with, or an area below, the extrusion unit 2 in order to capture parameter information in this area.

[0121] However, it is equally conceivable that the detection elements 7.1 are arranged or aligned with a respective detection area which is directed towards the area below the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit 2.

[0122] The embodiments shown in the figures enable the implementation of a method for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. The method comprises the following steps: acquiring at least one parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based production process that can be carried out or has been carried out using the device 1, and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced using the device 1, as well as generating location and / or time information describing the acquisition location and / or acquisition time of the corresponding parameter information.

[0123] Individual, several or all features described in connection with a particular embodiment can be combined with individual, several or all features described in connection with at least one other embodiment.

[0124] 2. Device according to aspect 1, wherein the device (6) comprises a detection device (7) which includes at least one detection element (7.1) which is configured to detect parameter information.

[0125] 3. Device according to aspect 2, wherein the detection device (7) is an acoustic or optical or thermal detection device comprising at least one detection element (7.1) for acoustic or optical or thermal detection of parameter information.

[0126] 4. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device (6), in particular the detection device (7), is movably mounted in at least one degree of freedom of movement, in particular relative to the or a substrate.

[0127] 5. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising the device (6) being arranged or formed on or in the extrusion unit (2).

[0128] 6. Device according to aspect 5, wherein the device (6), in particular at least one detection element (7.1), is arranged or formed in the area of ​​an exit area (2.3) of the extrusion unit (2).

[0129] 7. Device according to aspect 6, wherein the device, in particular a detection element, is arranged or designed to be movable in the area of ​​the exit area in at least one degree of freedom relative to the exit area.

[0130] 8. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising the provision of several detection elements which are arranged in the form of a detection element arrangement, in particular forming a planar array.

[0131] 9. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a process parameter describes at least one chemical and / or at least one physical parameter of a process space in which an extrusion-based manufacturing process can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device (1) takes place, and / or describes at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or physical parameter of at least one extrusion material usable or used in the context of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device (1), and / or describes a parameter, in particular a motion parameter, optionally spatial and / or temporal, of a motion path of the extrusion unit (2) and / or of an extrusion material web applied to a substrate via the extrusion unit (2), and / or describes a parameter, in particular a surface finish parameter, of a substrate, such as e.g.a construction platform, describes.

[0132] 10. Device according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein an object parameter describes at least one chemical and / or geometric and / or at least physical parameter of a three-dimensional object or object section to be produced or produced within the framework of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device (1).

[0133] 11. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device (6) is configured to generate a one- or multi-dimensional image describing corresponding parameter information.

[0134] 12. Device according to aspect 11, comprising an output device (10) which is configured to output corresponding image information to or via an output element.

[0135] 13. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device (6) is configured to compare a corresponding parameter information with at least one, in particular corresponding, reference parameter information and to generate comparison information describing a respective comparison result.

[0136] 14. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising a control device (13) which is configured to control the operation of the device (1), in particular the operation of the extrusion unit (2) of the device (1), wherein the control device (13) is configured to control the operation of the device (1), in particular the operation of an extrusion unit (2) of the device (1), on the basis of corresponding parameter information and / or on the basis of corresponding comparison information.

[0137] 15. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising a temperature control device (16) associated with the device (6), which is configured for temperature control, in particular for cooling, of the device (6).

[0138] 16. Device according to aspect 15, wherein the temperature control device (16) is designed as or comprises a heat exchanger device.

[0139] 17. Device according to aspect 16, wherein the heat exchanger device comprises at least two flow channel structures, wherein a first flow channel structure through which a first temperature control fluid flows extends through a first volume in which the device (6), in particular at least one detection element (7.1) of a detection device (7) of the device (6), is arranged or formed, and a second flow channel structure through which a second temperature control fluid flows extends through a second volume separated from the first volume by a heat transfer structure, in particular a wall structure.

[0140] 18. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the detection area of ​​one or more detection elements (7.1) of a detection device (7) of the device (6) is oriented or directed towards an area below the exit area of ​​the extrusion unit (2).

[0141] 19. Method for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, in particular by means of a device (1) according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising the following steps: Acquisition of parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process that can be carried out or is carried out by means of the device (1) and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the device (1), as well as generation of location and / or time information describing a location and / or time of acquisition of a corresponding parameter information object information.

Claims

1. Apparatus (1) for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, comprising at least one extrusion unit (2) which is set up for melting an extrusion material and / or for applying a melted extrusion material to a substrate, comprising an apparatus (6), which is set up for detecting parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process which can be carried out or is carried out by means of the apparatus and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the apparatus (1) and for generating location and / or time information describing a detection location and / or a detection time of a corresponding parameter information, characterised in that the apparatus (6) comprises a plurality of detection elements which are arranged to form a detection element arrangement, in particular forming a planar array.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterised in that the apparatus (6) comprises a detection apparatus (7) which comprises at least one detection element (7.1) which is set up to detect parameter information, wherein optionally the detection apparatus (7) is an acoustic or optical or thermal detection apparatus which comprises at least one detection element (7.1) for acoustic or optical or thermal detection of parameter information.

3. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus (6), in particular the detection apparatus (7), is mounted so as to be movable in at least one degree of freedom of movement, in particular relative to the or a substrate.

4. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by the apparatus (6) being arranged or formed on or in the extrusion unit (2).

5. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterised in that the apparatus (6), in particular at least one detection element (7.1), is arranged or formed in the region of an outlet region (2.3) of the extrusion unit (2).

6. Apparatus according to claim 5, characterised in that the apparatus, in particular a detection element, is arranged or designed to be movable in at least one degree of freedom of movement relative to the outlet region in the region of the outlet region.

7. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus (6) is set up to generate a one- or multi-dimensional image of corresponding parameter information describing image information.

8. apparatus according to claim 7, characterised by an output apparatus (10) which is set up to output corresponding image information to or via an output element.

9. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus (6) is set up to compare corresponding parameter information with at least one, in particular corresponding, reference parameter information and to generate comparison information describing a respective comparison result.

10. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by a control apparatus (13) which is set up to control the operation of the apparatus (1), in particular the operation of the extrusion unit (2) of the apparatus (1), wherein the control apparatus (13) is set up to control the operation of the apparatus (1), in particular the operation of an extrusion unit (2) of the apparatus (1), on the basis of corresponding parameter information and / or on the basis of corresponding comparison information.

11. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by a temperature control apparatus (16) which is assigned to the apparatus (6) and is set up for temperature control, in particular for cooling, of the apparatus (6), wherein optionally the temperature control apparatus (16) is designed as a heat exchanger apparatus or comprises such a apparatus.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11, characterised in that the heat exchanger apparatus comprises at least two flow channel structures, wherein a first flow channel structure through which a first temperature control fluid can flow extends through a first spatial volume in which the apparatus (6), in particular at least one detection element (7.1) of a detection apparatus (7) of the apparatus (6), is arranged or formed, and a second flow channel structure through which a second temperature control fluid can flow extends through a second spatial volume separated from the first spatial volume by a heat transfer structure, in particular a wall structure.

13. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the detection area of one or more detection elements (7.1) of a detection apparatus (7) of the apparatus (6) can be aligned or is aligned to an area below the outlet area of the extrusion unit (2).

14. Method for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object by means of an apparatus (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by the following steps: detecting of parameter information relating to a process parameter of an extrusion-based manufacturing process which can be carried out or is carried out by means of the apparatus (1) and / or an object parameter of a three-dimensional object to be produced or produced by means of the apparatus (1), and generating of a location and / or time information describing a detection location and / or a detection time of a corresponding parameter information object information.