Modeling apparatus and modeling method

Abstract

To appropriately perform modeling of a colored modeling object by using an optical modeling method.SOLUTION: A modeling apparatus 10 for performing modeling by a photolithography method, comprises: a tank 12, which is a modeling material storage tank that stores a photocurable modeling material; a table 14 that supports an upper surface of a modeling object being modeled; a table drive unit 22 that moves the table 14; a light irradiation unit 16 that irradiates the table 14 with light from above to cure the modeling material; and an inkjet head 102, which is a head for a coloring material that ejects an ink which is the coloring material. The inkjet head 102 ejects the ink onto the modeling object being modeled, thereby coloring the modeling object.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shaping device and a shaping method.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, shaping devices for shaping three-dimensional objects have been widely used. Further, as a shaping device, a device (stereolithography apparatus) that performs shaping by a stereolithography method (stereolithography) is known (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When performing shaping by the stereolithography method, by using various materials as the shaping material, for example, shaped objects having various physical properties can be shaped. However, in this case, the color of the shaped object usually becomes the color of the shaping material used. Therefore, conventionally, it has been difficult to shape a shaped object colored in various colors (for example, a shaped object colored in full color, etc.) by the stereolithography method. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a shaping device and a shaping method capable of solving the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The inventor of the present application has conducted intensive research on a configuration for performing shaping by a stereolithography method, and considered using, in addition to a model material which is a photocurable shaping material, a material for coloring. Further, in this case, it was considered to shape a colored shaped object by discharging the coloring material to the shaped object during shaping by means of a discharge head. With such a configuration, for example, a colored shaped object can be appropriately shaped by the stereolithography method.

[0006] In addition, the inventor of the present application has reached the present invention by further intensive research and finding features necessary for obtaining such an effect. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a shaping apparatus for performing shaping by a stereolithography method, comprising: a model material storage tank for storing a model material which is a photocurable shaping material; a table for supporting a shaped object being shaped in the model material storage tank on the upper surface side; a table drive unit for moving the table according to the progress of shaping of the shaped object; a light irradiation unit for irradiating light for curing the model material from above the table; and a coloring material head which is a discharge head for discharging a coloring material which is a material for coloring having a color different from that of the model material, wherein the coloring material head colors the shaped object by discharging the coloring material to the shaped object during shaping.

[0007] When configured in this way, by discharging the coloring material onto the object being shaped using the coloring material head, for example, the object can be appropriately colored. Therefore, if configured in this way, for example, a colored object can be appropriately shaped by a stereolithography method. Also, in this case, for example, by using various materials that can be used in the stereolithography method as the model material, an object having desired physical properties can be appropriately shaped. In this configuration, it is preferable that the shaping apparatus includes coloring material heads for a plurality of different colors of coloring materials. In this case, the shaping apparatus includes, for example, a plurality of discharge heads. Also, in this case, the shaping apparatus shapes an object colored, for example, in full color with a plurality of colors of coloring materials. Also, in this configuration, as the discharge head such as the coloring material head, for example, an inkjet head that discharges a liquid by an inkjet method can be preferably used. In this case, as the model material, for example, a material that is difficult to discharge from the inkjet head can be considered. If configured in this way, for example, an object having physical properties that are difficult to achieve with only the material discharged from the inkjet head can be appropriately shaped.

[0008] In this configuration, the light irradiation unit cures the model material by irradiating light all at once to a preset area, for example. Further, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material while moving, for example, in the area between the object being formed and the light irradiation unit during the shaping process. As the coloring material, for example, a photocurable material can be considered. And in this case, the light irradiation unit further cures the coloring material by irradiating light to the coloring material discharged by the coloring material head, for example. With such a configuration, for example, the light source for curing the model material and the light source for curing the coloring material can be appropriately shared. Also, in this case, since there is no need to mount the light source on a holding member such as a carriage that holds the coloring material head, for example, the carriage and the like can be appropriately downsized. Therefore, when configured in this way, for example, the coloring material head can appropriately pass through this area without overly expanding the area between the object being formed and the light irradiation unit during the shaping process. Further, in this case, by using a light irradiation unit that irradiates light all at once to a preset area, for example, the light can be irradiated to the coloring material quickly and appropriately. Also, this can appropriately prevent, for example, the occurrence of displacement or bleeding in the position of the coloring material after landing. Therefore, when configured in this way, for example, a configuration in which the light source for the coloring material is not mounted on a carriage or the like can be more appropriately realized.

[0009] Here, regarding the light irradiation unit irradiating light all at once to a preset area, for example, it can be considered to perform surface irradiation (surface exposure) and the like. Also, as such a light irradiation unit, for example, a light source that irradiates light in the DLP method can be considered. As the light source of the DLP method, for example, a projector-type light source and the like can be preferably used. With such a configuration, for example, high-quality surface irradiation can be appropriately performed. Also, for example, depending on the quality required for the shaping and the like, a light irradiation unit that performs surface irradiation in a method other than the projector type may be used. In this case, for example, a light irradiation unit that irradiates light in the LCD method can be considered. Also, depending on the quality required for the shaping and the like, for example, a light irradiation unit that irradiates light in a method other than surface irradiation may be considered.

[0010] Also, in this configuration, the modeling apparatus forms a modeled object by, for example, laminating layers of the cured model material. In this case, for example, the table may be temporarily raised when discharging the coloring material from the coloring material head. More specifically, in this case, for example, when forming at least a part of the layers, after curing the model material by irradiation with light from the light irradiation unit, the table drive unit raises the table. Further, in a state where the table is raised, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material onto, for example, the modeled object being modeled. Then, after the coloring material head discharges the coloring material, the table drive unit moves the table to the position of the table at the time of forming the next layer, for example, by lowering the table. In this case, the table drive unit lowers the table, for example, after light irradiation from the light irradiation unit to the coloring material is performed. With such a configuration, for example, the head gap, which is the distance between the landing position and the discharge head (coloring material head), can be shortened when discharging the coloring material. Further, thereby, for example, the discharge of the coloring material can be more appropriately performed by the coloring material head with higher accuracy. Also, in this case, by raising the table, for example, the position for moving the coloring material head can be raised. Further, thereby, for example, it is possible to more appropriately prevent the coloring material head from contacting the edge of the model material storage tank. Also, in this case, by raising the table, for example, it is possible to reduce the uncured model material remaining on the uppermost surface of the modeled object being modeled when discharging the coloring material. Further, thereby, for example, it is possible to make it less likely that the uncured model material and the coloring material are mixed.

[0011] Also, in this configuration, the coloring material head may discharge the coloring material only onto a part of, for example, the layer formed of the model material. More specifically, in this case, during the formation of at least a part of the layer, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material only onto at least a part of the portion other than the outer peripheral portion in the layer. In this case, for the outer peripheral portion in the layer, it can be considered, for example, as a region including the outermost periphery of the range composed of the cured model material in the layer. Also, for the outer peripheral portion in the layer, it can also be considered, for example, as a portion that becomes the outer surface when the shaped object is completed. Also, in this case, for the coloring material head, it can be considered that the coloring material is not discharged onto the outermost periphery of the layer constituting the shaped object. Also, for the region in the layer where materials such as the coloring material are not discharged by the discharge head such as the coloring material head, it can be considered that it is filled with the model material during the formation of the next layer. When configured in this way, for example, even when a deviation occurs in the landing position of the coloring material, it is possible to appropriately prevent the coloring material from coming out to the outside of the shaped object. Also, thereby, for example, it is possible to make it less likely for the uncured model material and the coloring material to be mixed. Also, in this case, since the range of the coloring material overlapping on the layer of the model material is inside the surface of the shaped object, for example, the boundary between the region colored with the coloring material and the region formed of the model material can be made less conspicuous. Also, in this case, by forming the outermost surface of the shaped object with the model material, for example, the quality of the surface of the shaped object can be more appropriately adjusted by selecting the material used as the model material.

[0012] Also, when the coloring material is not discharged to the outer peripheral portion of the layer of the model material, it is also conceivable to discharge, for example, a clear material which is a colorless and translucent material to this portion. Regarding the clear material, it can also be considered as, for example, a material for coating the shaped object. Also, in this case, regarding the coloring material head, it can be considered that, for example, a colored coloring material is discharged. Further, the shaping apparatus further includes, for example, a clear material head which is a discharge head for discharging the clear material. And, when forming a layer by discharging the coloring material with the coloring material head, the clear material head discharges the clear material to at least a part of the portion outside the region where the coloring material is discharged in the layer, for example. When configured in this way, for example, by forming at least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the shaped object with the clear material, it is possible to adjust the texture (such as gloss) of the surface of the shaped object. Also, in this case, for example, depending on the material used as the clear material, it is also conceivable to change the optical characteristics (such as refractive index, transmittance, etc.) in the portion where the clear material is discharged. When configured in this way, for example, the appearance of the side surface of the shaped object seen through the portion where the clear material is discharged can be changed. Also, in this case, for example, it is also conceivable to cause a blurring effect in the appearance by the clear material to make the boundary between the region colored with the coloring material and the region formed with the model material less conspicuous.

[0013] Also, in this configuration, when discharging the coloring material, for example, it is conceivable to cause a discharge head such as a head for the coloring material to perform a main scanning operation. In this case, the main scanning operation can be considered as an operation of discharging the coloring material or the like while relatively moving the table in a preset main scanning direction, for example. Also, in this case, the modeling apparatus further includes, for example, a head driving unit that causes the head for the coloring material to perform the main scanning operation. With such a configuration, for example, the head for the coloring material can be caused to appropriately perform the main scanning operation. Also, when forming at least a part of the layer, the head driving unit may cause the head for the coloring material to perform, for example, a plurality of main scanning operations. Also, the head driving unit causes the head for the coloring material to be retracted outside the irradiation range of the light from the light irradiation unit every time, for example, a preset number of main scanning operations are performed on the head for the coloring material. And, in this case, for example, the light irradiation is caused to be performed on the light irradiation unit at the timing when the head for the coloring material is retracted outside the irradiation range. More specifically, in this case, for example, every time a preset number of main scanning operations are performed, with the head for the coloring material retracted outside the irradiation range, the light irradiation unit irradiates the coloring material discharged by the head for the coloring material with light. With such a configuration, for example, the coloring material discharged from the head for the coloring material can be appropriately cured by a predetermined number of main scanning operations.

[0014] In addition, when forming a shaped object, it is conceivable to form a support part as necessary. Regarding the support part, for example, it can be considered as a configuration that supports at least a part of the shaped object during shaping. Regarding the support part, for example, it can also be considered as a part that is removed after the completion of the process executed by the shaping apparatus during the shaping of the shaped object. And when performing shaping by the stereolithography method, usually, the support part is also formed of a model material. On the other hand, as described above, when using a discharge head such as a head for a coloring material, it is conceivable to discharge the material of the support part with the discharge head. In this case, the shaping apparatus further includes, for example, a support material head which is a discharge head that discharges a support material which is a material different from the model material and the coloring material. Further, the support material head discharges the support material as, for example, a material that constitutes at least a part of the support part. With such a configuration, for example, at least a part of the support part can be appropriately formed of a material other than the model material. As the support material, for example, a photocurable material can be preferably used. Also, in this case, for example, a water-soluble support material or the like can be preferably used. With such a configuration, for example, compared with the case of forming the support part only with the model material, the removal of the support part can be easily performed. Regarding the water solubility of the support material, for example, it can be considered that it becomes water-soluble after curing. Also, in this case, it is conceivable to form at least a part of the boundary portion between the support part and the shaped object with the support material. In this case, the support material head discharges the support material so that, for example, at least a part of the portion where the support part and the shaped object are connected is formed of the support material. With such a configuration, for example, while reducing the usage amount of the support material, the facilitation of the removal of the support part can be appropriately realized.

[0015] Also, when forming a shaped object by a method of discharging a coloring material onto a hardened model material, depending on the materials used as the model material and the coloring material, it is conceivable that the adhesiveness between the portion formed of the model material and the portion formed of the coloring material may become weak. Further, in this case, for example, when forming each layer, if the coloring material or the like is discharged by a discharge head such as a coloring material head over the entire range of the hardened model material, it is also conceivable that cracks may easily occur in the shaped object at the interface between the portion formed of the model material and the portion formed of the coloring material or the like. Therefore, in order to increase the strength of the shaped object, for example, it is conceivable to discharge the coloring material or the like only onto a part of the layer. More specifically, in this case, for example, when forming at least a part of the layers, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material onto a part of the layer. Also, in this case, the layer onto which the coloring material is discharged by the coloring material head is formed entirely of the model material in the thickness direction at least in a part of the portion where the coloring material is not discharged, and is connected to the layer formed thereon by the hardened model material. By configuring in this way, for example, the strength of the shaped object can be appropriately increased. Also, as a configuration of the present invention, for example, a configuration of a shaping method having the same features as described above can also be considered. In this case as well, for example, the same effects as described above can be obtained.

Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, for example, a colored shaped object can be appropriately formed by a stereolithography method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a modeling apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) shows an example of the configuration of the main part of the modeling apparatus 10. Except for the points to be described below, the modeling apparatus 10 may have the same or similar features as a known modeling apparatus. Further, the modeling apparatus 10 may further have the same or similar configuration as a known modeling apparatus in addition to the illustrated configuration. In this example, the modeling apparatus 10 is a 3D printer that performs modeling by a stereolithography method (stereolithography). Regarding the modeling apparatus 10 performing modeling by the stereolithography method, for example, it can be considered that at least a part of the object to be modeled by the modeling apparatus 10 is modeled by the stereolithography method. Regarding the stereolithography method, for example, it can be considered a method of performing modeling by laminating layers selectively cured by irradiating light on a photocurable modeling material (material) such as a photocurable resin. Also, regarding the stereolithography method, for example, it can also be considered as the vat photopolymerization method VPP (Vat Photopolymerization). More specifically, in this example, the modeling apparatus 10 models an object by the stereolithography method of the free surface method. Regarding the stereolithography method of the free surface method, for example, it can be considered a stereolithography method such as a method of irradiating light from above in the vertical direction to the object being modeled during modeling.

[0019] Also, in this example, the modeling apparatus 10 includes a tank 12, a table 14, a light irradiation unit 16, a head unit 18, a material supply unit 20, a table drive unit 22, a light source drive unit 24, a head drive unit 26, and a control unit 30. The tank 12 is a storage tank that stores a model material, which is a photocurable modeling material. Also, in this example, the tank 12 is an example of a model material storage tank, and as shown in the figure, for example, while accommodating the table 14 inside, it stores the uncured model material that becomes the material of the modeled object. Further, as the model material, an ultraviolet curable resin is used. More specifically, as the model material, for example, a known UV resin for stereolithography or the like can be preferably used. The table 14 is a pedestal member that supports the modeled object being modeled on the upper surface side within the tank 12. In this example, the table 14 gradually moves downward in the vertical direction within the tank 12 as the modeling of the modeled object progresses. More specifically, in this example, the table 14 moves downward in the vertical direction by a distance corresponding to a preset lamination pitch every time one layer is formed in the modeled object being modeled. Also, thereby, the position in the vertical direction of the range where the next layer is to be formed in the table 14 and the modeled object is adjusted to a predetermined position.

[0020] The light irradiation unit 16 is a light source that irradiates light for curing the model material, and irradiates ultraviolet light, which is the light for curing the model material, from above the table 14. Further, the light irradiation unit 16 is a light source that irradiates light in the DLP method (Digital Light Processing, Direct Light Processing), and cures the model material when forming each layer of the object to be formed by selectively irradiating ultraviolet light to a region set according to the shape of the object to be formed. Regarding the DLP method, for example, it can be considered as a method of irradiating light for curing the model material when forming each layer of the object by projection of a planar image. More specifically, in this example, the light irradiation unit 16 is a projector-type light source that irradiates light in a batch to a range set for each layer to be formed, and irradiates light in a batch to a preset region by irradiating light in the DLP method. Also, in this case, the light irradiation unit 16 irradiates light in a batch to, for example, the region where the model material should be cured in one layer. Regarding such a method of irradiating light, for example, it can be considered to perform surface irradiation (surface exposure). By using the light irradiation unit 16 of the DLP method, for example, high-quality surface irradiation can be appropriately performed. Also, in this example, the light irradiation unit 16 further irradiates light for curing the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 in the head unit 18. With such a configuration, for example, the light source for curing the model material and the light source for curing the ink can be appropriately shared.

[0021] The head unit 18 is configured to supply a modeling material other than the model material. In this example, the head unit 18 has a carriage 100 and a plurality of inkjet heads 102. The carriage 100 is a holding member that holds the plurality of inkjet heads 102. The plurality of inkjet heads 102 are an example of ejection heads and eject ink used as a modeling material other than the model material. In this case, the ink can be considered, for example, as a functional liquid or the like. Also, in this example, a photocurable material is used as the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102. In this case, the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 can be considered, for example, as an ultraviolet curable ink (UV ink) or the like. Also, the inkjet head 102 can be considered, for example, as an ejection head that ejects a liquid by an inkjet method. In this example, the inkjet head 102 has a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged, and ink for modeling the modeled object is ejected from each nozzle in the nozzle row. Also, at least a part of the plurality of inkjet heads 102 is an example of a coloring material head and ejects ink as an example of a coloring material. The coloring material can be considered, for example, as a coloring material of a color different from that of the model material. Also, in this example, the coloring material is an example of a colored resin. The coloring material can also be considered, for example, as a coloring material used for modeling.

[0022] More specifically, in this example, the head unit 18 includes inkjet heads 102 for each color of process color and inkjet heads 102 for spot color (SP), which is a color other than process color. Also, as the inkjet heads 102 for each color of process color, the head unit 18 has inkjet heads 102 for each color of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K), as shown in the figure, for example. Regarding process color, it can be considered as, for example, the basic colors for color representation. By using the inks of these colors, various color representations such as full-color representation can be performed. Also, in this example, at least for the inks of each color of process color (color inks), they can be considered as an example of a colored coloring material. Regarding the spot color ink, depending on its color, it can also be considered as an example of a coloring material. Also, depending on the color of the spot color ink, the spot color ink can be considered as a material different from the coloring material. Further, in this example, while moving in the region between the object being formed and the light irradiation unit 16, these inkjet heads 102 discharge ink onto the object being formed to color the object being formed, for example. More specifically, in this case, when forming each layer of the object being formed, after the model material is cured by the irradiation of light from the light irradiation unit 16, the plurality of inkjet heads 102 move together with the carriage 100 in the region between the object being formed and the light irradiation unit 16 and discharge ink. With this configuration, for example, each layer formed during the formation of the object being formed can be appropriately colored. Also, in this case, after the inkjet head 102 discharges ink, the ink is further cured by irradiating light from the light irradiation unit 16. The operation of forming each layer of the object being formed will be described in more detail later in the description of the forming operation executed by the forming apparatus 10.

[0023] The material supply unit 20 is configured to supply the model material, and supplies the model material into the tank 12 as necessary. The table drive unit 22 is a drive unit that moves the table 14 according to the progress of the formation of the formed object. In this example, the table drive unit 22 moves the table 14 downward in the vertical direction parallel to the Z direction in the figure by a predetermined lamination pitch every time one layer is formed during the formation of the formed object. The light source drive unit 24 is a drive unit that irradiates the light irradiation unit 16 with light. In this example, the light source drive unit 24 causes the light source drive unit 24 to perform irradiation of light for curing the model material and irradiation of light for curing the ink. The head drive unit 26 is a drive unit that causes a plurality of inkjet heads 102 to perform main scanning operations and sub-scanning operations. Regarding the main scanning operation, for example, it can be considered as an operation of discharging ink while moving in a predetermined main scanning direction relative to the discharge target. Regarding the sub-scanning operation, for example, it can be considered as an operation of relatively moving the discharge target in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. Also, in this example, the main scanning direction is a direction parallel to the Y direction in the figure and orthogonal to the Z direction. Also, the sub-scanning direction is a direction parallel to the X direction in the figure and orthogonal to the Y direction and the Z direction. Regarding the relative movement of the discharge target in the main scanning direction or the sub-scanning direction, for example, it can be considered as moving in the main scanning direction or the sub-scanning direction relative to the table 14 that supports the formed object during formation. More specifically, in this example, the head drive unit 26 causes the inkjet head 102 to perform a main scanning operation when discharging ink, so that the inkjet head 102 discharges ink onto the cured model material. Also, when forming one layer, the head drive unit 26 may cause the inkjet head 102 to perform a plurality of main scanning operations. In this case, the head drive unit 26 changes the region where ink is discharged in the next main scanning operation on the cured model material, for example, by causing the inkjet head 102 to perform a sub-scanning operation between the main scanning operations. The control unit 30 is configured to include, for example, the CPU of the forming apparatus 10, and controls the operations of each part of the forming apparatus 10.

[0024] When shaping an object with the above configuration, for example, various materials available for the stereolithography method can be appropriately used as the modeling material. Also, thereby, for example, an object having desired physical properties can be appropriately shaped. Further, in this case, by discharging ink onto the object being shaped by the inkjet head 102, the object can be appropriately colored. Therefore, according to this example, for example, a colored object can be appropriately shaped by the stereolithography method. Also, in this case, as the modeling material, for example, a material that is difficult to discharge from the inkjet head 102 can be used. Therefore, according to this example, for example, an object having physical properties that are difficult to achieve with only the material discharged from the inkjet head 102 can be appropriately shaped. Also, as described above, in this example, the light irradiation unit 16 that irradiates light for curing the modeling material irradiates light for curing the coloring material. In this case, for example, it can be considered that a light source outside the carriage 100 is used to cure the coloring material. And in this case, since there is no need to mount a light source on the carriage 100, for example, the carriage 100 and the head unit 18 can be appropriately miniaturized. Also, thereby, for example, the inkjet head 102 can be appropriately made to pass through this region without overly expanding the region between the object being shaped and the light irradiation unit 16 during shaping. Further, in this case, by using the light irradiation unit 16 that irradiates light by the DLP method, for example, light can be irradiated quickly and appropriately to the ink discharged from the inkjet head 102 during the main scanning operation. Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the occurrence of misalignment or bleeding in the position of the ink after landing. Also, thereby, for example, a configuration in which a light source for the ink is not mounted on the carriage 100 can be more appropriately realized.

[0025] Also, as described above, in this example, the head unit 18 has a plurality of inkjet heads 102 to eject inks of a plurality of colors. Then, the modeling apparatus 10 uses inks of a plurality of colors to model, for example, a modeled object colored in full color. Further, the head unit 18 further has an inkjet head 102 for special colors in addition to the inkjet head 102 for process colors. As the ink ejected by the inkjet head 102 for special colors, for example, it is conceivable to use an ink of a light-reflective color such as white (W color) or a clear ink which is a colorless and translucent clear color. Regarding the white ink, for example, it can be considered as an example of a light-reflective material. Regarding the clear ink, for example, it can be considered as an example of a colorless and translucent clear material. Further, regarding the clear ink, the fact that it is colorless can be considered, for example, as the fact that it is not intentionally colored. Regarding the fact that it is not intentionally colored, for example, it can be considered as the fact that a coloring material is not substantially added. Regarding the clear ink, for example, it can also be considered as an example of a coating material. Also, the specific configuration of the head unit 18 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 1(a), and various changes are possible. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to use the head unit 18 having the configurations shown in FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c). FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c) show modified examples of the configuration of the head unit 18.

[0026] In the configuration shown in FIG. 1(a), the head unit 18 has only one inkjet head 102 for special features (SP). However, the number of inkjet heads 102 for special features that the head unit 18 has may be plural, for example, as shown in FIG. 1(b). With such a configuration, for example, materials of special features of multiple colors can be appropriately used simultaneously. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to eject white ink and clear ink by two inkjet heads 102 for special features. Also, the arrangement of the plurality of inkjet heads 102 in the head unit 18 can be changed in various ways. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 1(c), for some of the inkjet heads 102, the position in the sub-scanning direction may be shifted from that of other inkjet heads 102. In this case, it can be considered that the plurality of inkjet heads 102 in the inkjet head 102 are arranged in a staggered configuration. Also, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to arrange the inkjet head 102 for special features with its position in the sub-scanning direction shifted from that of the inkjet head 102 for process colors. With such a configuration, for example, the timing of ejecting special feature ink and the timing of ejecting process color ink can be made different for the layer being formed. More specifically, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to eject special feature ink such as white ink or clear ink first, and then eject process color ink. Also, in the head unit 18, the plurality of inkjet heads 102 eject inks of different colors, for example. On the other hand, in a modified example of the configuration of the head unit 18, the head unit 18 may have a plurality of inkjet heads 102 that eject ink of the same color. Also, it is conceivable to eject inks of multiple colors by one inkjet head 102 having a plurality of nozzle rows. In this case, for the inkjet head 102 that ejects inks of multiple colors, for example, it can be considered that it has the functions of a plurality of inkjet heads 102. Therefore, also in this case, for the head unit 18, for example, it can be considered that it has inkjet heads 102 for inks of each color.

[0027] Next, the shaping operation (shaping process) performed in the shaping apparatus 10 will be described in more detail. FIGS. 2 and 3 are diagrams for explaining the shaping operation performed in the shaping apparatus 10, and show an example of the shaping operation in the case of using clear resin, which is a colorless and translucent material, as the model material. FIGS. 2(a) to (c) and FIGS. 3(a) and (b) show an example of the steps sequentially performed in this shaping operation. FIG. 3(c) shows an example of the configuration of the shaped object at the time when the operation performed in the shaping apparatus 10 is completed, together with Table 14. As can be understood from the above description and the like, in this example, the shaping apparatus 10 shapes the shaped object by stacking the layers constituting the shaped object. And in the operation of forming the first layer (the first layer), the shaping apparatus 10 supplies the model material from the material supply unit 20 (see FIG. 1) as necessary, and accumulates the model material on the table 14 so that, for example, as shown in FIG. 2(a), the model material for one layer is thinly placed on the table 14, and irradiates light (ultraviolet light) by the light irradiation unit 16. In this case, the light irradiation unit 16 irradiates light in the DLP method so as to fill the portion to be cured (the printing area of the first layer). Further, thereby, the shaping apparatus 10 selectively cures the model material in a range determined according to the shape of the shaped object to be shaped in the layer being shaped, for example. Also, during the execution of the operation shown in FIG. 2(a), the head unit 18 is retracted outside the light irradiation range of the light irradiation unit 16. Regarding retracting the head unit 18 outside the irradiation range, for example, it can be considered that it corresponds to retracting the plurality of inkjet heads 102 in the head unit 18 outside the irradiation range.

[0028] After the model material of the first layer is cured, the modeling apparatus 10 moves the head unit 18 to the region between the object being modeled and the table 14 as shown in, for example, FIG. 2(b), and causes the inkjet heads 102 in the head unit 18 to eject inks of respective colors. More specifically, in this case, the modeling apparatus 10 causes the plurality of inkjet heads 102 to perform a main scanning operation, thereby causing the inkjet heads 102 to eject ink to each position on the cured model material. In this case, the plurality of inkjet heads 102 eject ink so as to cover, for example, portions to be colored in the cured model material. Further, in this example, after causing the plurality of inkjet heads 102 to perform the main scanning operation, the modeling apparatus 10 retracts the head unit 18 outside the irradiation range of the light from the light irradiation unit 16 and causes the light irradiation unit 16 to irradiate light as shown in, for example, FIG. 2(c). Further, thereby, the modeling apparatus 10 cures, for example, the ink ejected from the plurality of inkjet heads 102. With such a configuration, for example, the cured model material can be appropriately colored. Further, thereby, a colored layer 152 can be appropriately formed as shown in, for example, FIG. 2(c).

[0029] Here, as also described above, in the shaping apparatus 10 of this example, the head drive unit 26 (see FIG. 1) causes the inkjet head 102 to perform a plurality of main scanning operations as necessary during the formation of one layer. And in this case, during the operation of forming one layer 152, the shaping apparatus 10 cures the ink, for example, every time a predetermined number of main scanning operations are performed. More specifically, in this case, every time the head drive unit 26 causes the inkjet head 102 to perform a preset number of main scanning operations, the head unit 18 is retracted outside the irradiation range of the light from the light irradiation unit 16. Then, with the head unit 18 retracted outside the irradiation range, the light irradiation unit 16 irradiates the ink ejected by the inkjet head 102 with light. With this configuration, for example, the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 can be appropriately cured by a predetermined number of main scanning operations. In this case, for example, during the operation of forming one layer 152, it is conceivable to repeatedly perform the operations shown in FIGS. 2(b) and (c) as necessary. Also, in this case, for example, it is preferable to irradiate the ink with light from the light irradiation unit 16 every time one main scanning operation is performed. With this configuration, for example, the ink ejected in each main scanning operation can be cured quickly and appropriately. Also, depending on the quality required for shaping, etc., for example, it is also conceivable to irradiate the ink with light from the light irradiation unit 16 every time a predetermined plurality of main scanning operations are performed. For example, when causing the inkjet head 102 to perform a reciprocating main scanning operation that moves the head unit 18 to one side and the other side in the main scanning direction, it is conceivable to irradiate the ink with light from the light irradiation unit 16 every time two main scanning operations for the round trip are performed. Also, depending on the quality required for shaping, etc., for example, after all the main scanning operations performed to form one layer 152 are completed, the ink may be irradiated with light from the light irradiation unit 16.

[0030] After the formation of the first layer 152 is completed, the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 moves the table 14 downward in the vertical direction by a preset lamination pitch, as shown in, for example, FIG. 3(a). In this case, the operation of moving the table 14 by the lamination pitch can be considered to correspond to, for example, the operation of lowering the position of the table 14 by one layer to be formed next. Also, in this case, the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 supplies a model material from the material supply unit 20 as necessary, and accumulates the model material on the layer 152 so that the thickness of the model material placed on the uppermost layer 152 that has hardened in the object being prototyped becomes one layer. Then, the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 selectively cures the model material by irradiating the light irradiation unit 16 with light in the same or similar manner as described above in relation to FIG. 2(a), as shown in, for example, FIG. 3(b). After that, the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 repeats the operations shown in FIGS. 2(b) to 3(b) to form a plurality of layers 152 that make up the object. Also, thereby, the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 prototypes an object 50 having a configuration in which a plurality of layers 152 overlap, as shown in, for example, FIG. 3(c). Also, when prototyping the object 50, various post-process treatments may be performed on the object 50 for which the operations executed in the rapid prototyping apparatus 10 have been completed, as necessary. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to perform cleaning, removal of the support part, etc. on the object 50 removed from the table 14. Regarding the support part, for example, it can be considered to be configured to support at least a part of the object being prototyped. Also, regarding the support part, for example, it can also be considered to be a part that is removed after the completion of the process executed by the rapid prototyping apparatus 10. According to this example, for example, a colored object 50 can be appropriately prototyped. Also, in this case, by using inks of a plurality of colors, various colorings such as full-color can be performed on the object 50.

[0031] More specifically, in this example, the shaping device 10 shapes a shaped object 50 having the configuration shown in FIG. 4, for example. And in this case, the shaping device 10 forms each layer constituting the shaped object 50 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, for example. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the specific configuration of the shaped object 50, and shows a simplified cross-section of the shaped object 50 formed on the table 14 in the tank 12, paying attention to the coloring of each part. FIGS. 5 and 6 show an example of the operation of sequentially forming each layer constituting the shaped object 50 on the table 14 with respect to the shaped object 50 shown in FIG. 4. In FIGS. 4 to 6, the rectangles with characters inserted within the range constituting the shaped object 50 indicate the regions that are units for coloring with the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 (see FIG. 1). Regarding this rectangle, it can also be considered to correspond to the voxels of the shaped object 50 determined according to the shaping resolution, for example. Also, in FIGS. 4 to 6, for the sake of illustration, the range indicated by the uncured model material is also shown as an arrangement of rectangles with characters inserted. More specifically, in FIGS. 4 to 6, the rectangle with the character Lq inserted indicates the uncured model material (uncured resin). The rectangle with the character Mo inserted indicates the cured model material (cured resin). The rectangle with the character W inserted indicates the position where the white ink (white ink), which is a characteristic, is ejected from the inkjet head 102. The rectangle with the character M inserted indicates the position where the magenta ink (magenta ink) is ejected from the inkjet head 102. The rectangle with the character Y inserted indicates the position where the yellow ink (yellow ink) is ejected from the inkjet head 102. Also, the rectangle with the character T inserted indicates the model material cured for use as a support part. In the illustrated configuration, the regions colored with magenta ink and yellow ink can be considered as, for example, the colored regions in the shaped object 50. Regarding the colored regions, it can be considered as, for example, the regions colored with process color ink in the parts where the color can be visually recognized from the outside of the shaped object 50. Also, regarding the regions colored with white ink, it can be considered as, for example, light reflection regions. Regarding the light reflection regions, it can be considered as, for example, light-reflective regions that function as the background of the colored regions.Also, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 for example, by repeating the operation of curing the model material of the single-layer part and the operation of ejecting ink from the inkjet head 102 onto the cured model material, the shaped object 50 having the configuration shown in FIG. 4 can be appropriately shaped. Further, thereby, in the shaping device 10, for example, a colored shaped object 50 can be appropriately shaped.

[0032] Subsequently, the specific configuration and the like of the layer 152 formed during the shaping of the shaped object will be described in more detail. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the layer 152 formed during the shaping of the shaped object. FIG. 7(a) schematically shows an example of the configuration of the layer 152 formed during the shaping of the shaped object having the configuration described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIGS. 7(b) to (e) show modified examples of the configuration of the layer 152. As described above, in this example, the shaping device 10 shapes the shaped object by stacking a plurality of layers 152. Also, in the operation of forming one layer 152, the shaping device 10 performs the operation of curing the model material for one layer and the operation of ejecting ink from the inkjet head 102 onto the cured model material. And in this case, regarding the layer 152, for example, as shown in FIG. 7(a), it can be considered to have a configuration including a model material layer 162 and an ink layer 164. In this case, regarding the model material layer 162, for example, it can be considered as a region where the model material for one layer has been cured, etc. Also, regarding the model material layer 162, for example, it can also be considered as a range composed of the cured model material in the layer 152, etc. Regarding the ink layer 164, for example, it can be considered as a region formed by the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102, etc.

[0033] Also, in the illustrated configuration, the ink layer 164 has a colored region 172 and a light reflection region 174. The colored region 172 is a region formed in a state of being colored using process color ink, and is formed on the model material layer 162 at a portion where the color of the shaped object can be visually recognized from the outside. In this case, the process color ink can be considered, for example, as an example of the ink used as a coloring material. Regarding the portion where the color of the shaped object can be visually recognized from the outside, for example, in a state where a plurality of layers 152 are overlapped, it can be considered as a region where the color can be visually recognized from the side surface side of the layer 152. More specifically, in this example, the colored region 172 is formed, for example, on the model material layer 162 on the outer peripheral side of the light reflection region 174 so that the color can be visually recognized from the side surface side of the layer 152. The light reflection region 174 is a light-reflective region (reflection layer) formed of white ink. In this example, the light reflection region 174 is formed on the model material layer 162 on the inner peripheral side of the colored region 172, thereby functioning as a background for the colored region 172. By forming such a light reflection region 174, for example, after the completion of the shaped object, the color colored in the colored region 172 can be appropriately visually recognized by the observer. The light reflection region 174 can also be considered, for example, as a paper white region (paper white layer) that functions in the same manner as white paper.

[0034] Here, in this example, regarding the operation of forming one layer 152, the operation of forming the model material layer 162 can be considered, for example, as the operation of the process of forming the base portion that is the basic configuration of the layer 152. In this case, regarding the operation of forming the ink layer 164, it can be considered, for example, as the operation of the coloring process of coloring the base portion. Also, as described above, when forming the ink layer 164 having the colored region 172 and the light reflection region 174, this coloring process can be considered to be divided into a plurality of processes including, for example, the process of forming the light reflection region 174 using white ink and the process of forming the colored region 172 using process color ink. Further, in the configuration shown in FIG. 7(a), the colored region 172 is formed at a position including the outermost peripheral portion in the model material layer 162. And in this case, the uncured ink may easily adhere to the surface (side surface, etc.) of the object being shaped during shaping. Therefore, after forming all the layers 152 in the shaping apparatus 10, it is preferable to sufficiently remove the uncured ink by a cleaning process.

[0035] In a modified example of the configuration of layer 152, for example, as shown in FIG. 7(b), it is also conceivable to use a configuration in which uncured colored ink does not easily adhere to the surface of the object being formed. In the configuration shown in FIG. 7(b), the ink layer 164 in layer 152 further has a clear region 176 which is a region formed of clear ink, in addition to the colored region 172 and the light reflection region 174. In this case, the clear region 176 is formed, for example, around the colored region 172, and thus is formed at a portion that becomes the boundary between the colored region 172 and the uncured modeling material. Also, the clear region 176 may be formed, for example, in a part of the periphery of the colored region 172. Therefore, for the clear region 176, it can be considered that it is formed, for example, in at least a part of the periphery of the colored region 172. Also, for the layer 152 shown in FIG. 7(b), for example, it can be considered as a layer having a configuration in which clear ink is ejected to this portion without ejecting process color ink to the outer peripheral portion of the modeling material layer 162. Also, in this case, the head portion 18 has an inkjet head 102 for color ink, an inkjet head 102 for white ink, and an inkjet head 102 for clear ink as the inkjet heads 102 for special features. In this case, the inkjet head 102 for clear ink can be considered, for example, as an example of a head for a clear material. When paying attention to the operation of the inkjet head 102 for clear ink, when forming the layer 152 by ejecting color ink by the inkjet head 102 for process color, for the inkjet head 102 for clear ink, it can be considered that, for example, clear ink is ejected to at least a part of the outer portion of the region where color ink is ejected in layer 152. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent uncured colored ink (color ink) from adhering to the surface of the object being formed. Also, in this case, for example, even when there is a deviation in the landing position of the color ink, it is possible to appropriately prevent the color ink from leaking outside the layer 152. Also, thereby, for example, it is possible to make it difficult for the uncured modeling material and the color ink to be mixed.

[0036] Also, in this case, by forming at least a part of the region that becomes the outer peripheral portion of the shaped object with clear ink, for example, it is also conceivable to adjust the texture (such as gloss) of the surface of the shaped object. Also, in this case, for example, it is also conceivable to create a blurring effect in the appearance by the clear region 176 to make the boundary between the model material layer 162 and the colored region 172 less conspicuous. More specifically, when laminating the layer 152 where the model material layer 162 and the ink layer 164 overlap, on the side surface of the shaped object, the model material layer 162 and the ink layer 164 will overlap alternately. And, in this case, depending on the required quality of the shape, etc., it is also conceivable that the boundary between the colored region 172 and the model material layer 162 in the ink layer 164 appears striped and becomes a problem. On the other hand, when the clear region 176 is formed around the colored region 172, the colored region 172 is visually recognized through the clear region 176 on the side surface side of the shaped object, and for example, such a striped appearance can be appropriately reduced. Therefore, with such a configuration, for example, a shaped object of a desired quality can be shaped more appropriately. Also, in this case, for example, it is also conceivable to change the optical properties (such as refractive index, transmittance, etc.) in the portion where the clear ink is ejected according to the composition of the ink (material) used as the clear ink.

[0037] Regarding the ink layer 164, it is not necessarily formed over the entire model material layer 162. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7(c) to 7(e), it is also conceivable to form it only on a part of the model material layer 162. In this case, when forming the ink layer 164, the inkjet head 102 for process colors discharges color ink, for example, only onto a part of the model material layer 162. Then, the inkjet head 102 for special inks such as white ink discharges special ink, for example, only onto a part of the region on the model material layer 162 that is outside the range where color ink is discharged. More specifically, in the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 7(c), the colored region 172 is formed on a part of the model material layer 162. And the light reflection region 174 is formed only on a part of the range on the model material layer 162 where the colored region 172 is not formed. Therefore, in this case, the ink layer 164 is formed on the part of the model material layer 162 other than the non-discharge portion 178. The non-discharge portion 178 can be considered, for example, as a region where ink is not discharged by any of the inkjet heads 102. Also, in this case, the non-discharge portion 178 can be considered, for example, to be filled with the model material when forming the next layer 152. When configured in this way, for example, regarding a part of the layer 152 where color ink is discharged by the inkjet head 102 for process colors, the entire thickness direction is formed of the model material at least in a part where color ink is not discharged. And in this case, for a part of the layer 152, it can be considered to be connected to the upper layer by the cured model material without passing through the ink layer 164. Therefore, by configuring in this way, for example, the adhesiveness (connectivity) between the layers 152 can be appropriately increased. Also, thereby, for example, the strength of the shaped object can be appropriately increased. The configuration in which the layers 152 shown in FIG. 7(c) are stacked will be described in more detail later.

[0038] Also, when forming the ink layer 164 only on a part of the model material layer 162, for example, as shown in FIG. 7(d), it is also conceivable to form the ink layer 164 such that the outside of the colored region 172 on the model material layer 162 becomes the non-ejection portion 178. In this case, at the time of forming at least a part of the layer 152, the inkjet head 102 for process colors ejects color ink only onto at least a part of the portion other than the outer peripheral portion in the layer 152, for example. Regarding the outer peripheral portion of the layer 152, for example, in the layer 152, it can be considered as a region including the outermost periphery of the model material layer 162 and the like. Regarding the outer peripheral portion of the layer 152, for example, it can also be considered as a portion that becomes the outer surface when the shaped object is completed. Also, in this case, regarding the inkjet head 102 for process colors, for example, it can be considered that color ink is not ejected onto the outermost periphery of the layers constituting the shaped object. And in this case, the non-ejection portion 178 is formed by not ejecting ink from any of the inkjet heads 102 onto the outer peripheral portion of the layer 152. Also, in this case, regarding the non-ejection portion 178 in the outer peripheral portion of the layer 152, for example, it can be considered that it is filled with the model material at the time of forming the next layer 152. When configured in this way, for example, in the ink layer 164 overlapping the model material layer 162, since the range of the colored region 172 is inside the surface of the shaped object, it is possible to appropriately prevent uncured color ink from adhering to the surface of the shaped object during shaping. Further, in this case, since the range of the colored region 172 is inside the surface of the shaped object, for example, the boundary between the colored region 172 and the model material layer 162 can be made less conspicuous. Also, in this case, by forming the outermost surface of the shaped object with the model material, for example, the quality of the surface of the shaped object can be more appropriately adjusted by selecting the material used as the model material. Also, depending on the color of the model material used, for example, as shown in FIG. 7(e), it is also conceivable to omit the light reflection region 174. More specifically, for example, when using a model material of a light-reflective color such as white, various colors can be appropriately expressed in the colored region 172 without forming the light reflection region 174 inside the colored region 172.Also, in this case, by not forming the light reflection region 174, for example, the range where the ink layer 164 is formed on the model material layer 162 can be narrowed compared to the case where the light reflection region 174 is formed. Further, thereby, for example, the range that becomes the non-discharge portion 178 can be widened, and the adhesiveness between the layers 152 can be more appropriately enhanced.

[0039] Subsequently, supplementary explanations regarding the matters described above, further modification examples, and the like will be described. In the following, for the sake of convenience of explanation, in some cases, the present example may also include the modification examples described above and below. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining various features related to the modeling apparatus 10. FIG. 8(a) is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the layers 152 having the non-discharge portion 178 are stacked, and shows an example of how a plurality of layers 152 are stacked in the case of modeling an object by stacking the layers 152 having the configuration described with reference to FIG. 7(c).

[0040] When forming a shaped object by a method of discharging ink such as color ink onto a model material layer 162 formed of a cured model material as in this example, depending on the materials used as the model material and the ink, as described above, the adhesion between the model material layer 162, which is the part formed of the model material, and the ink layer 164, which is the part formed of the ink, may become weak. And in this case, for example, when discharging ink by the inkjet head 102 over the entire range on the model material layer 162 during the formation of each layer 152, it is also conceivable that cracks are likely to occur in the shaped object at the interface between the model material layer 162 and the ink layer 164. Therefore, in order to increase the strength of the shaped object, for example, during the formation of at least some of the layers 152, as described above, it is conceivable to form the ink layer 164 only on a part of the range on the model material layer 162 so that the non-discharge part 178 is formed in the ink layer 164. Also, in this case, as described above, the non-discharge part 178 in the layer 152 will be filled with the model material during the formation of the next layer 152. Therefore, in this case, for example, as shown in the figure, in a configuration where a plurality of layers 152 overlap, a region that is connected by the model material without sandwiching the ink layer 164 in between will be formed. Such a region can be considered, for example, as a columnar region connecting a plurality of layers 152. If configured in this way, as described above, the adhesion between the layers 152 can be appropriately increased. Also, thereby, for example, the strength of the shaped object can be appropriately increased. Also, in this case, by increasing the strength of the shaped object, for example, it is possible to more appropriately prevent cracks from occurring in the shaped object at the boundary between the model material layer 162 and the ink layer 164 and the like.

[0041] Also, as described above, when forming a shaped object in the shaping device 10, it is conceivable to form the support portion 52 as necessary. And in this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 8(b), on the table 14 in the shaping device 10, the shaped object 50 is formed in a state connected to the support portion 52. FIG. 8(b) shows the shaped object 50 and the support portion 52 together with the table 14. In this case, for the shaped object 50, for example, it can be considered as the portion that remains as the result of shaping after the removal of the support portion 52 and the like. Also, when performing shaping by the stereolithography method, usually, the support portion 52 is also formed of a model material. On the other hand, when performing the shaping of the shaped object 50 by further using the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 as in this example, it is also conceivable to form at least a part of the support portion 52 with ink by ejecting the ink that becomes the material of the support portion 52 from any of the inkjet heads 102. In this case, for the ink used for forming the support portion 52, for example, it can be considered as a support material or the like which is a material different from the model material and the coloring material. Also, for the inkjet head 102 that ejects the ink used as the support material, for example, it can be considered as an example of a head for support material. By using such an inkjet head 102, for example, at least a part of the support portion can be appropriately formed with a material other than the model material. As the ink used as the support material, it is preferable to use an ultraviolet curable ink which is a photocurable material. Also, in this case, it is conceivable to eject an ink that becomes a water-soluble support material by the inkjet head 102 used as the head for support material. If configured in this way, for example, compared with the case of forming the support portion 52 only with the model material, the removal of the support portion 52 can be easily performed. Regarding the support material, being water-soluble can be considered, for example, as becoming water-soluble after curing and the like.

[0042] Also, in this case, for example, only a part of the support portion 52 may be formed of a support material. More specifically, in this case, for example, at least a part of the boundary portion between the support portion 52 and the shaped object 50 may be formed of a support material ejected from the inkjet head 102. In this case, the inkjet head 102 that ejects the ink serving as the support material ejects the ink serving as the support material so that at least a part of the portion where the support portion 52 and the shaped object 50 are connected is formed of the support material. Regarding forming at least a part of the boundary portion with the support material, for example, it can also be considered that at least a part near the boundary is formed of the support material so as to achieve the purpose of facilitating the removal of the support portion 52. Also, in consideration of making it easier to remove the support portion 52 in this regard, for example, it seems more preferable to form the entire support portion 52 with a water-soluble support material. However, for a water-soluble support material, for example, it is considered to be more expensive than the model material. Therefore, if the entire support portion 52 is formed of a water-soluble support material, the cost of shaping will increase. Therefore, from the perspective of cost and the like, it is preferable to form only a part of the support portion 52 with a support material. With such a configuration, for example, while reducing the amount of support material used, it is possible to appropriately facilitate the removal of the support portion 52. Also, after removing the support portion 52, it is preferable to perform a finishing process or the like to smooth the portion that was the boundary with the support portion 52 in the shaped object 50 as necessary.

[0043] Also, as described above, in this example, the modeling apparatus 10 forms a plurality of layers 152 stacked on the table 14 by gradually moving the table 14 downward in the vertical direction within the tank 12 as the modeling progresses. And in this case, the modeling apparatus 10 may temporarily raise the table 14 at some timing, for example, as shown in FIG. 8(c). FIG. 8(c) shows an example of the operation of temporarily raising the table 14 with respect to a modified example of the operation of the modeling apparatus 10. In this case, for example, when the ink is ejected from the inkjet head 102, the modeling apparatus 10 temporarily raises the table 14. More specifically, in this case, for example, when forming at least a part of the layers 152, after curing the model material by irradiation with light from the light irradiation unit 16 to form the model material layer 162 in the layer 152, the table drive unit 22 raises the table 14. And in a state where the table 14 is raised, the inkjet head 102 in the head unit 18 ejects ink onto the model material layer 162. Also, thereby, the inkjet head 102 ejects, for example, color ink or the like onto the object being modeled. And after the inkjet head 102 ejects color ink or the like, the table drive unit 22 moves the table 14 to the position of the table 14 at the time of forming the next layer 152, for example, by lowering the table 14. In this case, the table drive unit 22 lowers the table 14, for example, after the light irradiation unit 16 performs irradiation with light for curing the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102.

[0044] With such a configuration, for example, when ink is ejected from the inkjet head 102, the head gap, which is the distance between the landing position and the inkjet head 102, can be appropriately shortened. Also, thereby, for example, the ejection of ink such as color ink can be more appropriately performed by the inkjet head 102 with higher accuracy. Also, in this case, by raising the table 14, for example, the position where the inkjet head 102 is moved during the main scanning operation can be raised. Also, thereby, for example, it is possible to more appropriately prevent the inkjet head 102 from contacting the edge of the tank 12. Also, in this case, by raising the table 14, for example, when ejecting color ink or the like, it is possible to reduce the uncured model material remaining on the uppermost surface of the model being formed. Therefore, with such a configuration, for example, it is possible to make it less likely for the uncured model material and color ink or the like to be mixed. Also, in this example, the light irradiation unit 16 has, for example, an optical system for adjusting the position where light is irradiated. As such an optical system, for example, an optical system that changes the focal length in accordance with the position to the light irradiation target can be considered. And, in this case, it is preferable to make the settings of the optical system different between the irradiation of light to the model material at the position when the model material layer 162 is formed and the irradiation of light to the color ink performed by raising the table 14. In this case, regarding the setting of the optical system, for example, it can be considered to change it in accordance with the raising distance of the table 14. With such a configuration, for example, the irradiation of light to the model material and the color ink can be more appropriately performed.

[0045] Also, as described above, in this example, the light irradiation unit 16 is a light source that irradiates light in the DLP method. And as the DLP method light irradiation unit 16, for example, as described above, a projector-type light source or the like can be preferably used. By using such a light irradiation unit 16, for example, after the inkjet head 102 discharges ink such as color ink, the ink can be appropriately cured in a short time. Also, thereby, for example, it is possible to make it difficult for ink bleeding or the like to occur. In a modification of the configuration of the modeling apparatus 10, for example, it is also conceivable to use a light irradiation unit 16 having a configuration other than the projector type. In this case, as the light irradiation unit 16, for example, it is conceivable to use a light source that irradiates light in the LCD method. Regarding the LCD method light source, for example, it can be considered as a light source that irradiates planar light using a liquid crystal panel or the like. Therefore, the LCD method light irradiation unit 16 can also be considered as, for example, a light source that performs surface irradiation or the like. Also, in a further modification of the configuration of the modeling apparatus 10, depending on the quality required for modeling and the like, for example, it is also conceivable to use a light irradiation unit 16 that irradiates light by a method other than surface irradiation. For example, when the required accuracy of the shape is high but the required accuracy of coloring is not so high, it is also conceivable to use a light irradiation unit that irradiates light in the SLA method (Stereolithography).

[0046] Also, as described above, in this example, without installing a light source in the head portion 18, the ink is cured by irradiating light from the light irradiation portion 16 outside the head portion 18, thereby miniaturizing the head portion 18. Also, thereby, for example, without moving (retracting) the light irradiation portion 16, it is possible to move the region between the object being formed and the light irradiation portion 16 to the head portion 18. Also, in this case, since the head portion 18 is small, for example, the light irradiation portion 16 can be installed at a position sufficiently close to the object being formed. Also, thereby, for example, the light irradiation portion 16 can more appropriately perform light irradiation with high accuracy. Also, as described above, in this example, the material supply unit 20 (see FIG. 1) in the shaping apparatus 10 supplies the model material into the tank 12 as needed during the shaping of the object 50. Therefore, for example, even when uncured color ink is mixed with the uncured model material in the tank 12, by supplying the model material from the material supply unit 20, the influence of the color ink can be appropriately reduced. Also, thereby, for example, the shaping of the object using color ink can be more appropriately performed. The material supply unit 20 may supply the model material, for example, every time a predetermined number of layers are formed. More specifically, in this case, the material supply unit 20 supplies the model material, for example, every time one layer is formed. Also, above, an example in which mainly ultraviolet curable ink is used for the ink ejected from the inkjet head 102 has been described. On the other hand, in a modified example of the configuration of the shaping apparatus 10, for example, depending on the quality required for the object to be formed, etc., it is also conceivable to use an ink other than ultraviolet curable ink. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to use an evaporation drying type ink that is fixed to the ejection target by drying.

Industrial Applicability

[0047] The present invention can be suitably used, for example, in a shaping apparatus.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0048] 10 ··· shaping device, 100 ··· carriage, 102 ··· inkjet head, 12 ··· tank, 14 ··· table, 152 ··· layer, 16 ··· light irradiation unit, 162 ··· model material layer, 164 ··· ink layer, 172 ··· colored area, 174 ··· light reflection area, 176 ··· clear area, 178 ··· non-ejection part, 18 ··· head part, 20 ··· material supply unit, 22 ··· table drive unit, 24 ··· light source drive unit, 26 ··· head drive unit, 30 ··· control unit, 50 ··· shaped object, 52 ··· support part

Claims

1. A modeling apparatus for performing modeling by a stereolithography method, comprising: a model material storage tank for storing a model material which is a photocurable modeling material; a table for supporting an object being modeled on the upper surface side within the model material storage tank; a table drive unit for moving the table in accordance with the progress of the modeling of the object; a light irradiation unit for irradiating light for curing the model material from above the table; a coloring material head which is a discharge head for discharging a coloring material which is a material for coloring with a color different from that of the model material; and characterized in that the coloring material head colors the object being modeled by discharging the coloring material onto the object being modeled.

2. The coloring material head discharges the coloring material while moving in a region between the object being modeled and the light irradiation unit during modeling; the coloring material is a photocurable material; the light irradiation unit cures the model material by irradiating light in a preset region all at once, and further cures the coloring material by irradiating light onto the coloring material discharged by the coloring material head. The stereolithography apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The object is modeled by laminating layers of the cured model material; at least when forming a part of the layers, after the model material is cured by irradiation with light from the light irradiation unit, the table drive unit raises the table; with the table raised, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material onto the object being modeled; after the coloring material head discharges the coloring material, the table drive unit moves the table to the position of the table at the time of forming the next layer by lowering the table. The stereolithography apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The object is modeled by laminating layers of the cured model material; at least when forming a part of the layers, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material only onto at least a part of a portion other than the outer peripheral portion in the layer. The stereolithography apparatus according to claim 2.

5. further comprising a clear material head which is a discharge head for discharging a clear material which is a colorless and translucent material; the coloring material head discharges the colored coloring material; When forming the layer by discharging the coloring material with the coloring material head, the clear material head discharges the clear material to at least a part of the outer portion of the region where the coloring material is discharged in the layer. The shaping apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that.

6. Further comprising a head drive unit that causes the coloring material head to perform a main scanning operation of discharging the coloring material while relatively moving the table in a preset main scanning direction. When forming at least a part of the layer, the head drive unit causes the coloring material head to perform the main scanning operation a plurality of times, and each time the coloring material head is caused to perform the main scanning operation a preset number of times, the coloring material head is retracted outside the irradiation range of the light from the light irradiation unit. The shaping apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, in a state where the coloring material head is retracted outside the irradiation range, the light irradiation unit irradiates light on the coloring material discharged by the coloring material head.

7. Further comprising a support material head which is a discharge head for discharging a support material which is a material different from the model material and the coloring material. The shaping apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the support material head discharges the support material as a material constituting at least a part of a support part that supports at least a part of the object being shaped during shaping.

8. The shaping apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the support material head discharges the water-soluble support material.

9. The shaping apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the support material head discharges the support material so that at least a part of the portion where the support part and the object being shaped are connected is formed of the support material.

10. The object being shaped is shaped by laminating the layers of the cured model material. When forming at least a part of the layer, the coloring material head discharges the coloring material to a part of the layer. The layer in which the coloring material is discharged by the coloring material head is connected to the layer formed above by the cured model material by being formed entirely of the model material in the thickness direction in at least a part of the portion where the coloring material is not discharged. The shaping apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

11. A shaping method for performing shaping by a stereolithography method. A model material storage tank for storing a model material which is a photo-curable modeling material, a table for supporting an object being modeled on the upper surface side within the model material storage tank, a light irradiation unit for irradiating light for curing the model material from above the table, a coloring material head which is a discharge head for discharging a coloring material which is a material for coloring having a color different from that of the model material, are used, the table is moved according to the progress of the modeling of the object, and the object is colored by discharging the coloring material onto the object being modeled by the coloring material head. A modeling method characterized by this.

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