Flow rate adjusting device, three-dimensional molding device and injection forming device

Abstract

To provide a flow rate adjusting device that can accurately control the flow rate of a fluid.SOLUTION: A flow rate adjusting device which adjusts the flow rate of a fluid comprises a main part and a valve part which is rotatably disposed on the main part. The valve part includes a notch part and a groove part provided along the direction of rotation of the outer peripheral portion of the valve part and at a position different from the notch part. One of the groove part communicates with the notch part, and the other of the groove part does not communicate with the notch part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flow rate adjusting device, a three-dimensional modeling device, and an injection molding device. [Background technology]

[0002] A function has been disclosed in which the on-off valve of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus is made larger than the nozzle serving as the injection port in order to reduce resistance (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-754 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with conventional techniques, it is difficult to accurately control the flow rate. For example, it is difficult to precisely adjust the flow rate of a fluid, and there are cases where the on / off switching is not sharp. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, one aspect is a flow rate control device that controls the flow rate of a fluid, comprising a main body and a valve portion rotatably arranged on the main body, the valve portion having a cutout portion and a groove portion that is provided along the direction of rotation of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the cutout portion, one of the groove portions being connected to the cutout portion and the other of the groove portion not being connected to the cutout portion.

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, one aspect is a three-dimensional modeling device comprising: a plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to turn it into a molten material; and a nozzle that ejects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing unit toward a stage, wherein the plasticizing unit has a flow rate adjusting unit that adjusts the flow rate of the molten material supplied to the nozzle, and the flow rate adjusting unit comprises a main body and a valve unit that is rotatably arranged on the main body, wherein the valve unit has a cutout portion and a groove portion that is provided along the rotational direction of the outer periphery of the valve unit and at a position different from the cutout portion, one of the groove portions being connected to the cutout portion and the other of the groove portion not being connected to the cutout portion.

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, one aspect of the present invention is an injection molding apparatus comprising: a plasticizing section that plasticizes a material to form a molten material; a nozzle that injects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing section into a mold; and a flow rate control section provided between the plasticizing section and the nozzle, wherein the flow rate control section comprises a main body section and a valve section that is rotatably arranged on the main body section, and the valve section has a cutout section and a groove section that is provided along the rotational direction of the outer periphery of the valve section and at a position different from the cutout section, one of the groove sections being connected to the cutout section and the other of the groove section not being connected to the cutout section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the groove forming surface side of the flat screw according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a top view showing the configuration of the screw-facing surface side of the barrel according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of a forming process according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 1A to 1C are diagrams schematically illustrating how a three-dimensional object is formed according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a first explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a valve unit of a flow rate regulator according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a second explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the valve unit of the flow rate regulator according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a third explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the valve unit of the flow rate regulator according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 3A and 3B are explanatory diagrams showing the configurations of a flow rate regulator and a suction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10A] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of a valve portion in a valve unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 10B] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of a valve portion in a valve unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of the appearance of divided portions obtained by dividing the valve portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 12A] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating a first rotation state of a valve portion in the valve unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 12B] 10 is a diagram showing a second rotation state of the valve portion in the valve unit according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12C] 10 is a diagram showing a third rotation state of the valve portion in the valve unit according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12D] 10 is a diagram showing a fourth rotation state of the valve portion in the valve unit according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 13] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating an example of the relationship between the rotation state of a valve portion and a relative flow rate in a valve unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 14A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first table illustrating a calculation example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio in a groove portion having a uniform cross section according to the embodiment. [Figure 14B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio in a groove portion having a uniform cross section according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of a second valve section in a valve unit according to a first modified example. [Figure 16A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second table illustrating an example of calculation of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio in the second groove portion according to the first modified example. [Figure 16B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio of a second groove portion according to a first modified example. [Figure 17] 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a third valve section in a valve unit according to a second modified example. FIG. [Figure 18] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an injection molding apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 19A] 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a second valve portion of a second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in a first state. FIG. [Figure 19B] 10 is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the second valve portion of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the first state. FIG. [Figure 19C] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a second valve portion of a second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in a second state. [Figure 19D] 10 is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the second valve portion of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the second state. FIG. [Figure 19E] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a second valve portion of a second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in a third state. [Figure 19F] 10 is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the second valve portion of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the third state. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] A first embodiment will be described. First, the outline of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. 1 shows arrows along the X, Y, and Z directions which are orthogonal to each other. The X and Y directions are horizontal directions, and the Z direction is vertical directions. Arrows along the X, Y, and Z directions are also shown in other figures as appropriate.

[0012] The three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 in this embodiment includes a modeling unit 200, a stage 300, a movement mechanism 400, and a control unit 500. Under the control of the control unit 500, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 ejects a modeling material from a nozzle hole 69 provided in the modeling unit 200 toward a modeling surface 310 of the stage 300, while driving the movement mechanism 400 to change the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the modeling surface 310, thereby forming a three-dimensional model in which layers of the modeling material are stacked on the modeling surface 310. The modeling material is also sometimes referred to as a molten material.

[0013] The movement mechanism 400 changes the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the modeling surface 310. In this embodiment, the movement mechanism 400 changes the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the modeling surface 310 by moving the stage 300 relative to the modeling unit 200. The movement mechanism 400 in this embodiment is configured with a three-axis positioner that moves the stage 300 in three axial directions (X, Y, and Z) using the driving forces of three motors. Each motor is driven under the control of the control unit 500. Note that the movement mechanism 400 may be configured to change the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the modeling surface 310 by moving the modeling unit 200 without moving the stage 300, rather than by moving the stage 300. Alternatively, the movement mechanism 400 may be configured to change the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the modeling surface 310 by moving both the stage 300 and the modeling unit 200.

[0014] The control unit 500 is configured by a computer including one or more processors, a main memory device, and an input / output interface for inputting and outputting signals to and from the outside. In this embodiment, the control unit 500 controls the operations of the modeling unit 200 and the movement mechanism 400 by having the processor execute programs and instructions loaded into the main memory device, thereby performing a modeling process for modeling a three-dimensional object. This operation includes changing the three-dimensional relative positions of the modeling unit 200 and the stage 300. Note that the control unit 500 may be configured by a combination of multiple circuits rather than a computer.

[0015] The modeling unit 200 includes a material supply unit 20, which is a material supply source; a plasticizing unit 30 that plasticizes the material supplied from the material supply unit 20 to form a modeling material; a nozzle 61 having a nozzle hole 69 that discharges the modeling material supplied from the plasticizing unit 30; a flow rate adjusting unit 70 that adjusts the flow rate of the modeling material supplied to the nozzle 61; and a suction unit 90 that sucks the modeling material. Note that "plasticization" refers to the application of heat to a thermoplastic material to melt it. Furthermore, "melting" also refers to the softening and fluidity of a thermoplastic material when heated to a temperature above its glass transition point.

[0016] The material supply unit 20 contains material in the form of pellets, powder, or the like. In this embodiment, ABS resin formed into pellets is used as the material. In this embodiment, the material supply unit 20 is configured as a hopper. A supply path 22 is provided below the material supply unit 20, connecting the material supply unit 20 and the plasticizing unit 30. The material supply unit 20 supplies the material to the plasticizing unit 30 via the supply path 22.

[0017] The plasticizing unit 30 includes a screw case 31, a drive motor 32, a flat screw 40, and a barrel 50. The plasticizing unit 30 melts at least a portion of the solid material supplied from the material supply unit 20 to produce a fluid, paste-like modeling material, and supplies the melted material to the nozzle 61.

[0018] The screw case 31 is a housing for accommodating the flat screw 40. A barrel 50 is fixed to the underside of the screw case 31, and the flat screw 40 is accommodated in the space enclosed by the screw case 31 and the barrel 50. A drive motor 32 is fixed to the upper surface of the screw case 31. The rotation shaft of the drive motor 32 is connected to the side of the upper surface 41 of the flat screw 40. The drive motor 32 is driven under the control of the control unit 500.

[0019] The flat screw 40 has a generally cylindrical shape with its height along the central axis RX being smaller than its diameter. The flat screw 40 is disposed inside the screw case 31 so that the central axis RX is parallel to the Z direction. The flat screw 40 rotates around the central axis RX inside the screw case 31 due to torque generated by the drive motor 32. The flat screw 40 has a groove-forming surface 42 on which a surface groove portion 45, which is a groove portion on a surface, is formed on the side opposite to the top surface 41 in the direction along the central axis RX.

[0020] The barrel 50 is disposed below the flat screw 40. The barrel 50 has a screw-facing surface 52 that faces the groove-forming surface 42 of the flat screw 40. The barrel 50 is provided with a first through hole 56 that penetrates the barrel 50 along the Z direction and a second through hole 57 that penetrates the barrel 50 along the Y direction so as to intersect with the first through hole 56. The first through hole 56 forms a flow path for supplying the molding material to the nozzle 61. This flow path is also referred to as a supply flow path. The first through hole 56 has one opening at the center of the screw-facing surface 52 and the other opening on the bottom surface of the barrel 50. The molding material flows into the first through hole 56 through the opening provided at the center of the screw-facing surface 52 and flows out through the opening provided on the bottom surface of the barrel 50. The opening of the first through hole 56 on the side where the molding material flows in is also referred to as the first opening, and the opening of the first through hole 56 on the side where the molding material flows out is also referred to as the second opening.

[0021] A heater 58 is embedded in the barrel 50 to heat the material supplied to the surface groove portion 45 of the flat screw 40. In this embodiment, four rod-shaped heaters 58 are arranged along the Y direction. Each heater 58 is arranged below the screw-opposing surface 52. The temperature of each heater 58 is controlled by the control unit 500. The heater 58 may also be referred to as a heating unit.

[0022] A refrigerant pipe 59 through which a refrigerant flows is embedded in the barrel 50 at a position farther from the first through-hole 56 than the heater 58. The refrigerant pipe 59 is arranged so as to pass near the outer periphery of the screw opposing surface 52. The refrigerant pipe 59 is connected to a refrigerant pump 103. The refrigerant pump 103 supplies a refrigerant to the refrigerant pipe 59. The refrigerant pump 103 is driven under the control of a control unit 500. The refrigerant may be a liquid such as water or oil, or a gas such as carbon dioxide. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe 59 prevents the temperatures of the flat screw 40 and the barrel 50 from becoming too high. The refrigerant pipe 59 and the refrigerant pump 103 are sometimes referred to as a cooling unit.

[0023] In this embodiment, the flow rate adjustment unit 70 is provided in the plasticizing unit 30. The flow rate adjustment unit 70 includes a main body 80, a valve unit 71, and a valve driving unit 101. In this embodiment, the barrel 50 functions as the main body 80. The valve unit 71 is provided inside the second through-hole 57 of the barrel 50. The valve unit 71 adjusts the flow rate of the modeling material supplied to the nozzle 61 by rotating inside the second through-hole 57. The valve driving unit 101 is composed of an actuator such as a stepping motor, and rotates the valve unit 71 under the control of the control unit 500. Of the flow paths in the main body 80, a portion closer to the screw-facing surface 52 than the valve unit 71 is referred to as a first flow path 82, and a portion farther from the screw-facing surface 52 than the valve unit 71 is referred to as a second flow path 83. In this embodiment, the portion of the first through-hole 56 of the barrel 50 that is closer to the screw-opposing surface 52 than the valve unit 71 is referred to as the first flow path 82, and the portion that is farther from the screw-opposing surface 52 than the valve unit 71 is referred to as the second flow path 83. The suction unit 90 is connected to the second flow path 83. The suction unit 90 sucks the modeling material from the second flow path 83. The flow rate of the modeling material discharged from the nozzle 61 is also referred to as the discharge amount.

[0024] The nozzle 61 is connected to the lower surface of the barrel 50. The nozzle 61 is provided with a nozzle flow path 68 and a nozzle hole 69. The nozzle flow path 68 is a flow path provided inside the nozzle 61. The nozzle flow path 68 is connected to a second flow path 83. The nozzle hole 69 is a portion with a reduced flow path cross section provided at the end of the nozzle flow path 68 that communicates with the atmosphere. The modeling material that flows into the nozzle flow path 68 from the second flow path 83 is ejected from the nozzle hole 69. In this embodiment, the opening shape of the nozzle hole 69 is circular. The diameter of the opening of the nozzle hole 69 is referred to as the nozzle diameter Dn. Note that the opening shape of the nozzle hole 69 is not limited to a circle and may be, for example, a square. When the opening shape of the nozzle hole 69 is square, the length of one side of the square is referred to as the nozzle diameter Dn. The opening shape of the nozzle hole 69 may be a polygon other than a square.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the groove forming surface 42 side of the flat screw 40 according to the embodiment. 2, the position of the central axis RX of the flat screw 40 is indicated by a dashed line. As described with reference to FIG.

[0026] The central portion 47 of the groove-forming surface 42 of the flat screw 40 is configured as a recess to which one end of the surface groove portion 45 is connected. The central portion 47 faces the first through-hole 56 of the barrel 50 shown in FIG. 1. The central portion 47 intersects with the central axis RX.

[0027] The surface grooves 45 of the flat screw 40 form what is known as scroll grooves. The surface grooves 45 extend in an arc-like spiral from the central portion 47 toward the outer periphery of the flat screw 40. The surface grooves 45 may also be configured to extend in a spiral shape. The groove-forming surface 42 is provided with ridges 46 that form side walls of the surface grooves 45 and extend along each surface groove 45.

[0028] The surface groove 45 continues to a material inlet 44 formed on the side surface 43 of the flat screw 40. This material inlet 44 is a portion that receives the material supplied via the supply path 22 of the material supply unit 20.

[0029] 2 shows an example of a flat screw 40 having three surface grooves 45 and three ridges 46. The number of surface grooves 45 and ridges 46 provided on the flat screw 40 is not limited to three. The flat screw 40 may be provided with only one surface groove 45, or may be provided with two or more surface grooves 45. Furthermore, any number of ridges 46 may be provided to match the number of surface grooves 45.

[0030] 2 shows an example of a flat screw 40 in which material inlets 44 are formed in three locations. The number of material inlets 44 provided in the flat screw 40 is not limited to three. The flat screw 40 may have the material inlet 44 provided in only one location, or may have the material inlet 44 provided in multiple locations (two or more locations).

[0031] FIG. 3 is a top view showing the configuration of the screw-facing surface 52 side of the barrel 50 according to the embodiment. A first through hole 56 communicating with the nozzle 61 is formed in the center of the screw-facing surface 52. A plurality of guide grooves 54 are formed around the first through hole 56 in the screw-facing surface 52. One end of each guide groove 54 is connected to the first through hole 56, and the guide grooves 54 extend in a spiral shape from the first through hole 56 toward the outer periphery of the screw-facing surface 52. Each guide groove 54 has the function of guiding the molding material to the first through hole 56.

[0032] Here, the suction unit 90 in this embodiment comprises a cylindrical cylinder 92 embedded in the barrel 50, a cylindrical plunger 93 housed inside the cylinder 92, and a plunger drive unit 102 that moves the plunger 93 inside the cylinder 92. The cylinder 92 is connected to the second flow path 83. The plunger driving unit 102 is composed of a stepping motor driven under the control of the control unit 500 and a rack and pinion mechanism that converts the rotation of the stepping motor into translational motion along the central axis of the cylinder 92. The plunger driving unit 102 may be composed of a stepping motor driven under the control of the control unit 500 and a ball screw mechanism that converts the rotation of the stepping motor into translational motion along the central axis of the cylinder 92, or may be composed of an actuator such as a solenoid mechanism or a piezoelectric element.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the contents of the formation processing according to the embodiment. This process is executed by the control unit 500 when a predetermined start operation is performed by the user on the operation panel provided in the 3D modeling apparatus 100 and on the computer connected to the 3D modeling apparatus 100.

[0034] First, in step S110, the control unit 500 acquires modeling data for forming a three-dimensional object. The modeling data represents information such as the movement path of the nozzle hole 69 relative to the stage 300, the amount of modeling material dispensed from the nozzle hole 69, the rotation speed of the drive motor 32 that rotates the flat screw 40, and the target temperature of the heater 58 built into the barrel 50. The modeling data is generated, for example, by slicer software installed on a computer connected to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100. The slicer software reads shape data representing the shape of a three-dimensional object created using three-dimensional CAD software or three-dimensional CG software, and divides the shape of the three-dimensional object into layers of a predetermined thickness to generate modeling data. The shape data loaded into the slicer software is data in STL format, AMF format, or the like. The modeling data created by the slicer software is expressed in G-code, M-code, or the like. The control unit 500 acquires the modeling data from a computer connected to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 or a recording medium such as a USB memory.

[0035] Next, in step S120, the control unit 500 starts generating the modeling material. The control unit 500 melts the material and generates the modeling material by controlling the rotation of the flat screw 40 and the temperature of the heater 58 built into the barrel 50. Due to the rotation of the flat screw 40, the material supplied from the material supply unit 20 is introduced into the surface groove portion 45 through the material inlet 44 of the flat screw 40. The material introduced into the surface groove portion 45 is transported along the surface groove portion 45 to the central portion 47. The material transported inside the surface groove portion 45 is at least partially melted by shearing due to the relative rotation of the flat screw 40 and the barrel 50 and by heating by the heater 58, becoming a fluid, paste-like modeling material. The modeling material collected in the central portion 47 is supplied to the first flow path 82 by the internal pressure generated in the central portion 47. The valve unit 71 blocks the flow of the modeling material from the first flow path 82 to the second flow path 83. Therefore, a portion of the modeling material supplied to the first flow path 82 is stored in a storage chamber (not shown). Note that the modeling material continues to be produced while this process is being performed.

[0036] Then, in step S130, the control unit 500 controls the valve driving unit 101 to rotate the valve unit 71, thereby connecting the first flow path 82 and the second flow path 83. When the first flow path 82 and the second flow path 83 are connected to each other, the ejection of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 starts.

[0037] In step S140, the control unit 500 controls the moving mechanism 400 in accordance with the modeling data to change the relative position between the nozzle hole 69 and the stage 300, and ejects modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 toward the stage 300, thereby modeling a three-dimensional object.

[0038] In step S150, the control unit 500 determines whether to stop the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69. The control unit 500 determines whether to stop the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 by using the modeling data. For example, if the target position for discharging the modeling material is set at a location away from the current position of the nozzle hole 69, the control unit 500 determines to stop the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69. If it is not determined in step S150 that the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 should be stopped, the control unit 500 returns to the process in step S140 and continues the modeling of the three-dimensional object.

[0039] If it is determined in step S150 that the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 is to be stopped, in step S160, the control unit 500 controls the valve driving unit 101 to rotate the valve unit 71, thereby blocking the inflow of the modeling material from the first flow path 82 to the second flow path 83. Blocking the inflow of the modeling material from the first flow path 82 to the second flow path 83 stops the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69. In step S165, the control unit 500 controls the plunger driving unit 102 to pull the plunger 93, thereby sucking the modeling material from inside the second flow path 83 into the cylinder 92. As a result, the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 is promptly stopped. While the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 is stopped, the formation of the three-dimensional object is stopped.

[0040] In step S170, the control unit 500 determines whether to resume the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69. If it is determined in step S170 that the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 should be resumed, in step S180, the control unit 500 controls the valve driving unit 101 to rotate the valve unit 71, thereby connecting the first flow path 82 and the second flow path 83. In step S185, the control unit 500 controls the plunger driving unit 102 to push the plunger 93, thereby pushing the modeling material from the inside of the cylinder 92 into the inside of the second flow path 83. As a result, the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 is promptly resumed. After that, the control unit 500 returns the process to step S140 and resumes the formation of the three-dimensional object.

[0041] If it is not determined in step S170 that the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69 should be resumed, the control unit 500 determines in step S190 whether or not to terminate the modeling of the three-dimensional object. The control unit 500 can determine whether or not to terminate the modeling of the three-dimensional object by using the modeling data. If it is not determined in step S190 that the modeling of the three-dimensional object should be terminated, the control unit 500 returns to the process in step S170 and determines again whether or not to resume the discharge of the modeling material from the nozzle hole 69. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S190 that the modeling of the three-dimensional object should be terminated, the control unit 500 terminates this process.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing how a three-dimensional object OB according to the embodiment is formed. The control unit 500 executes the above-described modeling process, whereby a three-dimensional model OB is formed on the upper part of the stage 300 by stacking multiple layers of modeling material.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a first explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a valve unit 71 of a flow rate adjuster 70 according to this embodiment. FIG. 7 is a second explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the valve unit 71 of the flow rate adjuster 70 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a third explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the valve unit 71 of the flow rate adjuster 70 according to the embodiment.

[0044] 4 to 6 show the support portion 86 together with the valve unit 71. FIG. 4 shows the valve unit 71 in a state where it is supported by the support portion 86. FIGS. 5 and 6 show the valve unit 71 moved in the +Y direction from the position shown in FIG. 4, as indicated by the arrow. The valve unit 71 has a substantially cylindrical outer shape centered on the first central axis AX. The valve unit 71 has, in order from the +Y direction side, a tip portion 73, a recessed portion 75, a groove portion 75a, a flange portion 76, and a rear end portion 78.

[0045] The tip portion 73 is provided at the end of the valve unit 71 on the +Y direction side. In this embodiment, the tip portion 73 has a surface perpendicular to the Y direction and a portion where the corners of the cylindrical valve unit 71 are chamfered. Note that the tip portion 73 does not necessarily have to have a portion where the corners of the valve unit 71 are chamfered.

[0046] The recess 75 is provided between the tip end 73 and the rear end 78 of the valve unit 71. The recess 75 is provided by cutting out a portion of the side surface of the cylindrical valve unit 71 in a half-moon shape. The recess 75 is provided near the tip end 73. The distance from the tip end 73 to the recess 75 in the Y direction is shorter than the distance from the flange 76 to the recess 75 in the Y direction.

[0047] The flange 76 is provided between the recess 75 and the rear end portion 78 of the valve unit 71. The flange 76 protrudes from the side surface of the cylindrical valve unit 71 in a direction perpendicular to the first center axis AX. The flange 76 has a disk-shaped outer shape centered on the first center axis AX. In this embodiment, a first contact surface 77 is provided on the surface of the flange 76 on the -Y direction side. The first contact surface 77 is provided so as to intersect with the Y direction. In other words, the first contact surface 77 faces the rear end portion 78. The first contact surface 77 faces a second contact surface 87 provided on the support portion 86.

[0048] The rear end portion 78 is provided at the end portion on the −Y direction side of the valve unit 71. A valve drive unit 101 is connected to the rear end portion 78. When torque from the valve drive unit 101 is applied to the rear end portion 78, the valve unit 71 rotates about the first center axis AX.

[0049] The valve unit 71 is supported on a side surface between the flange 76 and the rear end portion 78 by a support portion 86. In this embodiment, the valve unit 71 is supported on the support portion 86 via a ball bearing 89. This allows the valve unit 71 to rotate smoothly around the first center axis AX. The valve unit 71 may be made of a material with a relatively high hardness, such as high-speed steel.

[0050] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the flow rate adjuster 70 and the suction unit 90 according to the embodiment. 9 shows the valve unit 71 housed inside the barrel 50. The valve unit 71, a lid portion 88, a sliding portion 85, and a support portion 86 are housed inside the second through-hole 57 of the barrel 50. The lid portion 88, the sliding portion 85, and the support portion 86 are fixed to the barrel 50 by press-fitting. In this embodiment, the main body portion 80 of the flow rate adjuster 70 is made up of the barrel 50, the lid portion 88, the sliding portion 85, and the support portion 86.

[0051] The support portion 86 has a cylindrical outer shape and supports the valve unit 71. The support portion 86 covers the portion of the valve unit 71 that is closer to the rear end portion 78 than the flange portion 76.

[0052] The sliding portion 85 has a cylindrical outer shape. The sliding portion 85 covers the portion of the valve unit 71 from the tip portion 73 to the flange portion 76. The sliding portion 85 is provided with a hole that forms part of the first flow path 82 and a hole that forms part of the second flow path 83, arranged along the Z direction. The end of the sliding portion 85 on the -Y direction side is press-fitted with the end of the support portion 86 on the +Y direction side.

[0053] The lid portion 88 has a cylindrical outer shape. The lid portion 88 is provided inside the second through-hole 57 on the +Y direction side of the tip portion 73. The lid portion 88 seals the opening of the second through-hole 57 on the +Y direction side. The end portion of the sliding portion 85 on the +Y direction side is in contact with the lid portion 88.

[0054] The support portion 86 and the sliding portion 85 may be formed of a material that is harder than the barrel 50. The support portion 86 and the sliding portion 85 may be formed of a material such as high-speed steel.

[0055] An intersecting hole 84 is defined by the inner wall surface of the support portion 86, the inner wall surface of the sliding portion 85, and the lid portion 88. The intersecting hole 84 extends along the Y direction intersecting the first flow path 82 and the second flow path 83. The valve unit 71 is housed in the intersecting hole 84 so that the recess 75 is located between the first flow path 82 and the second flow path 83. The valve unit 71 and the support portion 86 are fitted together in a rolling or precise rolling manner. The valve unit 71 and the sliding portion 85 are fitted together in a rolling or precise rolling manner. Therefore, clearances are provided between the valve unit 71 and the support portion 86 and between the valve unit 71 and the sliding portion 85 so that the valve unit 71 can rotate within the intersecting hole 84. Of the clearance between the valve unit 71 and the sliding portion 85, the portion from the tip portion 73 to the recessed portion 75 is called the first clearance portion CL1, and of the clearance between the valve unit 71 and the sliding portion 85, the portion from the recessed portion 75 to the first contact surface 77 is called the second clearance portion CL2. The length of the first clearance portion CL1 along the Y direction is shorter than the length of the second clearance portion CL2 along the Y direction. Therefore, a portion of the building material that has flowed through the first flow path 82 is more likely to flow into the first clearance portion CL1 than into the second clearance portion CL2.

[0056] A storage chamber RS ​​for storing the modeling material is defined by the tip portion 73 of the valve unit 71, the inner wall surface of the sliding portion 85, and the lid portion 88. A portion of the modeling material that flows through the first flow path 82 flows through the first clearance portion CL1 and is stored in the storage chamber RS. The tip portion 73 receives pressure in the -Y direction from the modeling material stored in the storage chamber RS. As a result, the valve unit 71 is pushed in the -Y direction, and the first contact surface 77 of the valve unit 71 comes into contact with the second contact surface 87 of the support portion 86. The contact between the first contact surface 77 and the second contact surface 87 improves the sealing performance between the first contact surface 77 and the second contact surface 87. When the valve unit 71 rotates around the first central axis AX, the first contact surface 77 slides on the second contact surface 87.

[0057] Even if the molding material flows through the second clearance portion CL2 up to the flange portion 76, the gap between the first contact surface 77 and the second contact surface 87 is sealed, so the molding material is stored in the second clearance portion CL2. The flange portion 76 receives pressure in the -Y direction from the molding material stored in the second clearance portion CL2. Therefore, the valve unit 71 is pressed more strongly in the -Y direction, further improving the sealing between the first contact surface 77 and the second contact surface 87.

[0058] Next, the recessed portion 75 and the groove portion 75a of the valve unit 71 will be described in detail. FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the valve section A1 in the valve unit 71 according to the embodiment. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the valve section A1 in the valve unit 71 according to the embodiment. 10A and 10B differ in that the valve portion A1 is viewed from different directions.

[0059] Here, for convenience of explanation, the valve portion A1 is an extracted cylindrical portion in which the recess 75 and the groove 75a are provided in the valve unit 71. As such, the names valve portion and valve unit are used for convenience of explanation in this embodiment, and they may be called by other names, and as another example, a portion of the valve unit having a cylindrical component may be called the valve portion. In this embodiment, the valve portion A1 has a cylindrical height parallel to the Y direction and has two faces perpendicular to the Y direction. These two faces are a circular first face B1, which is the end face in the +Y direction, and a circular second face B2, which is the end face in the -Y direction.

[0060] The valve portion A1 is provided with a recess 75. In this embodiment, the recess 75 has a shape in which a part between the first surface B1 and the second surface B2 is cut away, and has a shape in which half of a circle is cut away. Furthermore, grooves 75a are provided on the side surfaces of the valve portion A1 where no recesses 75 are provided. In this embodiment, the groove 75a is provided along the rotational axis of the first center axis AX. One end of the groove 75a is connected to the recess 75, and the other end of the groove 75a is not connected to the recess 75. That is, in this embodiment, the length of the groove 75a is shorter than half the length of the circumference of the valve portion A1. In this embodiment, the depth and width of the groove 75a on the side surface of the valve portion A1 are constant, that is, the groove 75a has a uniform cross section over its entirety.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of divided portions obtained by dividing the valve portion A1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 shows a first divided portion A1a and a second divided portion A1b that are generated when the valve portion A1 is divided into two portions perpendicular to the Y direction at half the height thereof. Here, the first divided portion A1a and the second divided portion A1b are shown for the sake of convenience of explanation, and the valve portion A1 does not necessarily have to be divisible. The first divided portion A1a and the second divided portion A1b are symmetrical in the -Y and +Y directions when viewed from halfway in the height direction of the valve portion A1. That is, the recess 75 is a cutout that is symmetrical in the -Y and +Y directions from halfway in the height direction of the valve portion A1, and the groove portion 75a is a groove that is symmetrical in the -Y and +Y directions from halfway in the height direction of the valve portion A1.

[0062] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing a first rotation state of the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 according to the embodiment. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing a second rotation state of the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 according to the embodiment. FIG. 12C is a diagram showing a third rotation state of the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 according to this embodiment. FIG. 12D is a diagram showing a fourth rotation state of the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 according to the embodiment.

[0063] 12A to 12D schematically show the first flow path 82, the second flow path 83, and the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 as viewed from the +Y direction to the −Y direction. In this embodiment, the amount of material flowing from the upper first flow path 82 to the lower second flow path 83 is controlled in accordance with the rotation state of the valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71. In this embodiment, the valve portion A1 is controlled to rotate counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y direction to the −Y direction.

[0064] 12A is a state in which the valve is completely closed, that is, neither the recess 75 nor the groove 75a of the valve portion A1 faces the first flow path 82 at all. In the example of FIG. 12A, when viewed from the +Y direction to the −Y direction, the crescent-shaped portion of the recess 75 is rotated 45 degrees to the right with respect to the state of the lower half.

[0065] 12B is a state in which the valve is half-open. That is, the recess 75 of the valve portion A1 does not face the first flow path 82 at all, but part of the groove 75a faces the first flow path 82. Note that "half open" here refers to a state between the minimum flow rate of 0 and the maximum flow rate, and the flow rate does not necessarily have to be half the maximum flow rate. In the example of FIG. 12B, when viewed from the +Y direction to the −Y direction, the crescent-shaped portion of the recess 75 is in the lower half state.

[0066] The third rotation state shown in Figure 12C is the state immediately before the valve is fully open. In the example of Figure 12C, the groove portion 75a of the valve portion A1 faces the entire first flow path 82. In the example of FIG. 12C, when viewed from the +Y direction to the −Y direction, the crescent-shaped portion of recess 75 is rotated 45 degrees left with respect to the state of the lower half.

[0067] 12D is a fully open state in which the valve is fully open, i.e., the recess 75 of the valve portion A1 faces half of the first flow path 82, and the groove portion 75a faces the other half. The term "fully open" here refers to the state in which the flow rate is at its maximum. In the example of FIG. 12D, when viewed from the +Y direction to the -Y direction, the crescent-shaped portion of recess 75 is rotated 90 degrees to the left with respect to the state of the lower half, and is in the state of the right half.

[0068] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the rotation state of the valve portion A1 in the valve unit 71 according to this embodiment and the relative flow rate. In the graph shown in FIG. 13, the horizontal axis represents the rotational state of the valve portion A1 in terms of the rotation angle, and the vertical axis represents the relative flow rate. The graph shows a first characteristic 1011 of the relationship between the rotation angle and the relative flow rate.

[0069] In this example, the rotation angle is 0 degrees in the first rotation state Q1 shown in FIG. 12A, 45 degrees in the second rotation state Q2 shown in FIG. 12B, 90 degrees in the third rotation state Q3 shown in FIG. 12C, and 135 degrees in the fourth rotation state Q4 shown in FIG. 12D. The rotation angle may be expressed using any standard, such as the angle of the rotation position of the valve portion A1 or the angle relative to the flow path.

[0070] In the example of FIG. 13, the flow path of the groove portion 75a, which is the backup flow path, begins to open at the rotation angle of the a-th rotation state Qa during the transition from the first rotation state Q1 to the second rotation state Q2. After the a-th rotation state Qa, in the region up to the rotation angle of the b-th rotation state Qb during the transition from the third rotation state Q3 to the fourth rotation state Q4, the flow rate through the groove portion 75a, which is the backup flow path, increases in proportion to the rotation angle. Here, the b-th rotation state Qb is the rotation angle at which the flow path of the recess 75, which is the main flow path, begins to open.

[0071] After the b-th rotation state Qb, the flow rate increases rapidly and reaches its maximum in the fourth rotation state Q4. After the fourth rotation state Q4, the flow rate decreases suddenly, and in the cth rotation state Qc, both the flow path of the recess 75 and the flow path of the groove 75a are completely closed.

[0072] Here, in the first characteristic 1011, the proportional increase slope in the region between the ath rotation state Qa and the bth rotation state Qb is relatively small, the increase slope in the region between the bth rotation state Qb and the fourth rotation state Q4 is steeper and larger, and the decrease slope in the region between the fourth rotation state Q4 and the cth rotation state Qc is steeper and larger. In the example of Figure 13, the slope of increase in the region between the bth rotation state Qb and the fourth rotation state Q4 is approximately the same as the slope of decrease in the region from the fourth rotation state Q4 to the cth rotation state Qc.

[0073] The b-th rotation state Qb is a rotation state when the first position P1 of the valve portion A1 shown in FIG. 12D overlaps with the 1a-th position P1a of the flow channel. The c-th rotation state Qc is a rotation state when the second position P2 of the valve portion A1 shown in FIG. 12D overlaps with the seconda position P2a of the flow channel.

[0074] 13, it is easier to obtain a margin for flow velocity control where the slope of the first characteristic 1011 is gentle than where the slope is steep. Conversely, where the slope is steep, the flow rate can be changed more greatly than where the slope is gentle.

[0075] FIG. 14A is a diagram showing a first table T1 representing a calculation example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio in grooves 75a having a uniform cross section according to this embodiment. In this example, it is assumed that the cylindrical portion is provided with recesses 75 and grooves 75a. The resistance Rbv of the valve is expressed by the formula (1) using the radius r of the cylinder, the length L [mm] of the flow path of the groove portion 75a, and the viscosity μ of the flowing material.

[0076] [Number 1] Rbv=8μL / πr 4 (1)

[0077] Furthermore, in the first table T1, the ratio of the resistance Rbv to the resistance Rnoz of the nozzle is used as the resistance ratio. It is assumed that the nozzle resistance Rnoz is constant, but when the temperature changes, the viscosity μ of the material changes and the resistance Rnoz may also change.

[0078] FIG. 14B is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio in grooves 75a having a uniform cross section according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in FIG. 14B, the horizontal axis represents the groove length L [mm] of groove portion 75a, and the vertical axis represents the resistance ratio Rbv / Rnoz. The graph shows a second characteristic 2011 that indicates the relationship between the length [mm] and the resistance ratio. In the example of FIG. 14B, in the second characteristic 2011, the length [mm] is proportional to the resistance ratio.

[0079] In this example, the recess 75 and groove 75a are provided in a cylindrical portion, but as another example, when the recess and groove are provided in a portion of another shape, the information shown in Figures 14A and 14B may be obtained using a method such as the finite element method.

[0080] A first modification will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second valve section A2 in the valve unit according to the first modified example. Here, the second valve portion A2 is a modified version of the valve portion A1, and generally speaking, the second groove portion 75b provided in the second valve portion A2 is different from the groove portion 75a of the valve portion A1, but is otherwise similar. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the same components of the second valve portion A2 as those of the valve portion A1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0081] Compared to groove 75a, second groove 75b has a gradually narrower groove width from the point connected to recess 75 to the end point along the side surface. In other words, second groove 75b has a so-called tapered structure in which the cross section gradually becomes smaller as it progresses in the length direction from the point connected to recess 75 to the point not connected to recess 75. Note that the depth of second groove 75b on the side surface of second valve portion A2 is, for example, uniform throughout.

[0082] FIG. 16A is a diagram showing a second table T2 representing a calculation example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio of the second groove portion 75b according to the first modified example. In this example, it is assumed that the recess 75 and the second groove 75b are provided in the cylindrical portion. The length of the flow path of the second groove portion 75b is defined as L [mm].

[0083] In addition, in the second table T2, the ratio of the resistance Rbv to the resistance Rnoz of the nozzle is used as the resistance ratio. It is assumed that the nozzle resistance Rnoz is constant, but when the temperature changes, the viscosity μ of the material changes and the resistance Rnoz may also change.

[0084] FIG. 16B is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the length and the resistance ratio of the second groove portion 75b according to the first modification. In the graph shown in FIG. 16B, the horizontal axis represents the groove length L [mm] of the second groove portion 75b, and the vertical axis represents the resistance ratio Rbv / Rnoz. The graph shows a third characteristic 2021 that indicates the relationship between the length [mm] and the resistance ratio. In the example of FIG. 16B, the relationship between the length [mm] and the resistance ratio is nonlinear in the third characteristic 2021.

[0085] A second modified example will be described. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the third valve section A3 in the valve unit according to the second modified example. Here, the third valve portion A3 is a modified version of the valve portion A1, and generally speaking, the third groove portion 75c provided in the third valve portion A3 is different from the groove portion 75a of the valve portion A1, but is otherwise similar. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the same components of the third valve portion A3 as those of the valve portion A1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0086] Compared to groove 75a, third groove 75c has a gradually increasing width from the point connected to recess 75 to the end point along the side surface. In other words, third groove 75c has a cross-section that gradually increases in size as it extends in the length direction from the point connected to recess 75 to the point not connected to recess 75, resulting in a so-called flared structure. Note that the depth of third groove 75c on the side surface of third valve portion A3 is, for example, uniform throughout. This structure of third groove portion 75c is effective, for example, as a countermeasure against motor lag. As a specific example, when transitioning from recess 75 to third groove portion 75c, the groove suddenly narrows without a large angle, making it easier to control the motor when, for example, the motor's rotation starts up slowly.

[0087] As described above, the valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71 of the flow rate control device according to this embodiment can accurately control the flow rate of the fluid. In this embodiment, for example, the structure of the valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71 has a flow path that is larger and longer than the nozzle opening, and the length or diameter of the flow path is variable by relative movement. The valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71 according to this embodiment allows precise control of the flow rate using a wide angle range, for example, and the required precision of the movable range is low, improving cost performance.

[0088] As described above, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 according to this embodiment, the structure of the valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71 of the flow rate adjustment device is used, thereby enabling accurate control of the flow rate of the fluid. In this embodiment, the second valve portion A2 according to the first modified example or the third valve portion A3 according to the second modified example may be used instead of the valve portion A1, and effects according to the respective shapes can be obtained.

[0089] A second embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an injection molding apparatus 700 according to an embodiment. 18 shows arrows along the X, Y, and Z directions which are orthogonal to each other. The X and Y directions are horizontal directions, and the Z direction is vertical directions. Arrows along the X, Y, and Z directions are also shown in other figures as appropriate.

[0090] The injection molding apparatus 700 of this embodiment includes a c-th plasticizing section 30c, an injection control mechanism 710, a second nozzle 720, a mold section 730, and a mold clamping device 740. Here, unless otherwise specified, the substantial configuration and operation of the c-th plasticizing unit 30c are the same as those of the plasticizing unit 30 shown in Fig. 1, but for example, the specifications of the two, such as the shape, may be different. In this example, the c-th screw case 31c, the c-th drive motor 32c, the c-th central shaft RXc, etc. are shown.

[0091] As described in the first embodiment, the c-th plasticizing unit 30c includes a c-th flat screw 40c and a c-th barrel 50c. In this embodiment, an injection cylinder 711 is connected to the 1c-th through-hole 56c of the c-th barrel 50c. The injection cylinder 711 is connected to a portion of the 1c-th through-hole 56c that is closer to the c-th flat screw 40c than the c-th valve unit 71c of the c-th flow rate adjusting unit 70c. Under the control of the second control unit 750, the c-th plasticizing unit 30c plasticizes at least a portion of the material supplied to the c-th surface groove 45c of the c-th flat screw 40c, generating a fluid, paste-like molten material, which is then guided through the 1c-th through-hole 56c to the injection control mechanism 710.

[0092] The injection control mechanism 710 includes an injection cylinder 711, a second plunger 712, and a second plunger driver 713. The injection control mechanism 710 functions to inject the molten material inside the injection cylinder 711 into the cavity Cv. The injection control mechanism 710 controls the amount of molten material injected from the second nozzle 720 under the control of the second controller 750. The injection cylinder 711 is a substantially cylindrical member connected to the first through-hole 56c of the third barrel 50c and includes a second plunger 712 therein. The second plunger 712 slides inside the injection cylinder 711 and pressure-feeds the molten material inside the injection cylinder 711 to the second nozzle 720 connected to the third plasticizer 30c. The second plunger 712 is driven by a second plunger driver 713, which is configured by a motor.

[0093] The mold section 730 includes a movable mold 731 and a fixed mold 732. The movable mold 731 and the fixed mold 732 are disposed facing each other, with a cavity Cv therebetween, which is a space corresponding to the shape of the molded product. Molten material is pressure-fed by the injection control mechanism 710 and injected into the cavity Cv through the second nozzle 720.

[0094] The mold clamping device 740 includes a mold driving unit 741 and has the function of opening and closing the movable mold 731 and the fixed mold 732. Under the control of the second control unit 750, the mold clamping device 740 drives the mold driving unit 741 to move the movable mold 731 and open and close the mold unit 730.

[0095] In this embodiment, the c-th flow rate adjuster 70c is provided in the c-th plasticizing section 30c. The c-th flow rate adjuster 70c includes a c-th main body 80c and a c-th valve unit 71c, and has a valve drive function. In this embodiment, the c-th barrel 50c functions as the c-th main body 80c. In this embodiment, a valve portion having the same configuration as the valve portion A1 of the valve unit 71 shown in the first embodiment is used as the valve portion of the c-th valve unit 71c of the c-th flow rate adjustment portion 70c.

[0096] As described above, in the injection molding apparatus 700 according to this embodiment, the valve portion of the c-th valve unit 71c of the c-th flow rate adjustment section 70c can accurately control the flow rate of the fluid, as in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the second valve portion A2 according to the first modified example or the third valve portion A3 according to the second modified example may be used instead of the valve portion A1, and effects according to the respective shapes can be obtained.

[0097] A third embodiment will be described. The fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19A to 19F. FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in a first state. FIG. 19B is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the first state. FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the second state. FIG. 19D is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the second state. FIG. 19E is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in a third state. FIG. 19F is another cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth valve portion 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to the embodiment in the third state. In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the components shown in FIGS. 19A to 19F are referred to as valve sections, but may be referred to as valve units instead of valve sections.

[0098] 19A to 19F show arrows along mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z directions. The X and Y directions are horizontal directions, and the Z direction is vertical directions. In this example, for convenience of explanation, the +Z direction is upward and the −Z direction is downward. In this example, the first state is a fully open state, the second state is a half open state, and the third state is a fully closed state.

[0099] FIG. 19A shows an example of a cross section parallel to the YZ plane at the center of the width in the X direction of the fourth valve section 3001 when the fourth valve section 3001 is in the first state. FIG. 19B shows an example of the Ab-Ab cross section of the fourth valve section 3001 when the fourth valve section 3001 is in the first state.

[0100] 19A and 19B show an upper fluid flow path 3002a and a lower fluid flow path 3002b. The upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b are opposed to each other in the vertical direction, sandwiching the fourth valve unit 3001. In other words, the flow rate is adjusted by the fourth valve unit 3001, and liquid flowing in from above the upper fluid flow path 3002a flows downward through the lower fluid flow path 3002b. In this example, the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b have a circular or rectangular cross section in a plane parallel to the XY plane. In this example, the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b have the same cross section shape.

[0101] The fourth valve section 3001 includes a fixed member 3011 and a moving member 3012 . The fixed member 3011 is fixedly disposed between the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b. The fixing member 3011 is a plate-like member having a surface parallel to the XY plane between the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b, and has a first hole 3211 that penetrates in the vertical direction. The upper surface of the fixing member 3011, excluding the first hole 3211, blocks the space between the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b. In this example, the first hole 3211 has a square prism shape. However, the first hole 3211 may have another shape, such as a cylindrical shape instead of a square prism. In this example, the first hole portion 3211 is provided on the -Y direction side of the center in the direction parallel to the Y direction of the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b.

[0102] The fixing member 3011 has a gap 3111 having a predetermined thickness extending upward from the bottom of the first hole 3211. The gap 3111 is connected to the lower part of the first hole 3211 and extends linearly in the +Y direction. In this example, the void 3111 has the shape of a groove in a square prism. However, the void 3111 may have other shapes, such as a cylindrical shape instead of a square prism.

[0103] The moving member 3012 is a plate-like member having a surface parallel to the XY plane, and has a second hole 3212 that penetrates in the vertical direction. The moving member 3012 is disposed below the fixed member 3011 . The upper surface of the moving member 3012 closes the gap 3111 below the fixed member 3011 except for the second hole 3212 . In this example, the second hole 3212 has a square prism shape. However, the second hole 3212 may have another shape, such as a cylindrical shape instead of a square prism.

[0104] In this example, the cross section of the first hole 3211 parallel to the XY plane and the cross section of the second hole 3212 parallel to the XY plane are the same. The vertical fluid flow paths including the upper fluid flow path 3002a and the lower fluid flow path 3002b have through holes that run parallel to the Y direction. A moving member 3012, whose longitudinal direction is the Y direction, runs through the through holes. The moving member 3012 is capable of moving parallel to the Y direction.

[0105] 19A and 19B, the position of the cross section of the first hole 3211 of the fixed member 3011 and the position of the cross section of the second hole 3212 of the moving member 3012 are aligned in the vertical direction. This causes liquid from above the upper fluid flow path 3002a to flow downward into the lower fluid flow path 3002b through the first hole 3211 and the second hole 3212, and the fourth valve unit 3001 is fully open.

[0106] In the second state shown in FIGS. 19C and 19D, the moving member 3012 is moved in the +Y direction compared to the first state, and the second hole 3212 communicates with at least a part of the gap 3111. In the example of FIGS. 19C and 19D, the end of the second hole 3212 in the +Y direction is located further in the −Y direction than the end of the void 3111 in the +Y direction.

[0107] In the second state shown in Figures 19C and 19D, liquid from above the upper fluid flow path 3002a flows through the first hole portion 3211, the void portion 3111, and the second hole portion 3212 in that order, and flows downward into the lower fluid flow path 3002b, and the fourth valve portion 3001 is in a half-open state.

[0108] In the third state shown in FIGS. 19E and 19F, the moving member 3012 is moved in the +Y direction compared to the second state, and the second hole 3212 does not communicate with the gap 3111. In the examples of FIGS. 19E and 19F, the −Y direction end of the second hole 3212 is located further in the +Y direction than the +Y direction end of the void 3111.

[0109] In the third state shown in Figures 19E and 19F, liquid from above the upper fluid flow path 3002a passes through the first hole portion 3211 and the void portion 3111, but does not pass from the void portion 3111 to the second hole portion 3212, and the fourth valve portion 3001 is in a fully closed state.

[0110] As described above, in the fourth valve section 3001 of the second flow rate control device according to this embodiment, the direct acting moving member 3012 is caused to slide relative to the fixed member 3011, thereby enabling accurate control of the flow rate. The second flow rate adjusting device may include, for example, a drive unit that drives the moving member 3012 to move.

[0111] A configuration example of the above embodiment will be shown. Examples will be described with reference to Figures 1, 10A and 10B. The flow rate adjusting device for adjusting the flow rate of a fluid includes a main body portion 80 and a valve portion A1 rotatably disposed on the main body portion 80. The valve portion A1 has a recess 75, which is an example of a cutout portion, and a groove portion 75a provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion A1 and at a position different from the cutout portion. One side of the groove 75a communicates with the notch, and the other side of the groove 75a does not communicate with the notch. Therefore, in the flow rate regulator, the length or cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path can be changed, thereby enabling the flow rate of the fluid to be controlled with high precision. In the example of FIG. 1, the flow rate adjusting device is configured as a device including a flow rate adjusting section 70. The valve section A1 may be replaced by the second valve section A2 according to the first modified example or the third valve section A3 according to the second modified example.

[0112] In the flow rate regulator, the valve portion A1 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, in the flow rate adjusting device, a valve portion A1 having a practical shape is used. Here, in practice, it is considered that in many cases it is practical for the valve portion A1 to be cylindrical, but valve portion A1 of other shapes may also be used. As an example, the valve portion A1 may be a spherical portion, such as a ball valve-like shape.

[0113] In the flow rate adjusting device, the flow path of the groove portion 75a has a cross-sectional area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening of the nozzle 61 and has a length longer than that of the nozzle 61. Therefore, the flow rate regulator can regulate the flow rate with high precision. In the example of FIG. 1, for example, the opening of the nozzle hole 69 corresponds to the opening of the nozzle 61.

[0114] In the flow rate adjusting device, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second groove portion 75b in the second valve portion A2 may be configured to decrease from one side to the other. Therefore, the flow rate regulator can regulate the flow rate with high precision. This configuration corresponds to the example in FIG.

[0115] In the flow rate regulator, the diameter of the opening of the nozzle 61 is 500 μm or less. Therefore, the flow rate adjusting device has a practical size for the opening of the nozzle 61 .

[0116] In the flow rate regulator, the length of the opening of the nozzle 61 is 500 μm or less. Therefore, the flow rate adjusting device has a practical size for the opening of the nozzle 61 .

[0117] In the flow rate adjusting device, the cross-sectional area of ​​the groove portion 75a is twice or more the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle 61. Therefore, the flow rate adjusting device has a practical size for the groove portion 75a.

[0118] In the flow rate adjusting device, the length of the groove portion 75a is five times or more the length of the nozzle 61. Therefore, the flow rate adjusting device has a practical size for the groove portion 75a.

[0119] In the flow control device, when the rotation angle of the reference position of the outer periphery of the valve portion A1 is within a first rotation range, the flow rate gradually increases with the rotation angle, and when the rotation angle exceeds the first rotation range and moves into a second rotation range, the flow rate suddenly increases. Therefore, the flow rate regulator can regulate the flow rate with high precision. This corresponds to the example in FIG.

[0120] Examples will be described with reference to Figures 1, 10A and 10B. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 includes a plasticizing unit 30 that plasticizes a material to form a molten material, and a nozzle 61 that ejects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing unit 30 toward a stage. The plasticizing section 30 has a flow rate adjusting section 70 that adjusts the flow rate of the molten material supplied to the nozzle 61 . The flow rate adjusting unit 70 includes a main body 80 and a valve unit A1 rotatably disposed on the main body 80. The valve portion A1 has a recess 75, which is an example of a cutout portion, and a groove portion 75a provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion A1 and at a position different from the cutout portion. One side of the groove 75a communicates with the notch, and the other side of the groove 75a does not communicate with the notch. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the flow rate adjuster 70 can change the length or cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, thereby enabling the flow rate of the fluid to be controlled with high precision. The valve section A1 may be replaced by the second valve section A2 according to the first modified example or the third valve section A3 according to the second modified example.

[0121] Examples of FIGS. 18, 10A and 10B will be described. The injection molding apparatus 700 includes a c-th plasticization section 30c that plasticizes the material to form a molten material, a second nozzle 720 that injects the molten material supplied from the c-th plasticization section 30c into a mold, and a flow rate control section provided between the c-th plasticization section 30c and the second nozzle 720. The flow rate adjusting section includes a c-th main body section 80c and a valve section A1 of a c-th valve unit 71c rotatably disposed on the c-th main body section 80c. The valve portion A1 of the c-th valve unit 71c has a recess 75 which is an example of a cutout portion, and a groove portion 75a provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion A1 and at a position different from the cutout portion. One side of the groove 75a communicates with the notch, and the other side of the groove 75a does not communicate with the notch. Therefore, in the injection molding apparatus 700, the flow rate adjusting section can change the length or cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, thereby enabling the flow rate of the fluid to be controlled with high precision. In the example of FIG. 18, the c-th flow rate adjuster 70c is an example of a flow rate adjuster. In the example of FIG. 18, the configuration of the mold part 730 is an example of a mold. The valve section A1 may be replaced by the second valve section A2 according to the first modified example or the third valve section A3 according to the second modified example.

[0122] Although the embodiments have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs within the scope of the gist of this disclosure.

[0123] [Note] Below, the dependent configuration examples may or may not apply. (Configuration example 1) A flow rate adjusting device that adjusts the flow rate of a fluid, a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Flow control device.

[0124] (Configuration example 2) The valve portion has a cylindrical shape. The flow rate adjusting device according to (Configuration Example 1).

[0125] (Configuration example 3) The groove portion has a cross-sectional area larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​an opening of the nozzle and a length longer than the nozzle. The flow rate control device according to (Configuration Example 1) or (Configuration Example 2).

[0126] (Configuration Example 4) The cross-sectional area of ​​the groove portion decreases from the one side to the other side. The flow rate control device according to (Configuration Example 1) or (Configuration Example 2).

[0127] (Configuration Example 5) The diameter of the opening of the nozzle is 500 μm or less. The flow rate adjusting device according to (Configuration Example 3).

[0128] (Configuration Example 6) The length of the opening of the nozzle is 500 μm or less. The flow rate control device according to (Configuration Example 3) or (Configuration Example 5).

[0129] (Configuration Example 7) The cross-sectional area of ​​the groove is at least twice the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle. The flow rate control device according to any one of (Configuration Example 3), (Configuration Example 5), and (Configuration Example 6).

[0130] (Configuration Example 8) The length of the groove is 5 times or more the length of the nozzle. The flow rate control device according to any one of (Configuration Example 3), (Configuration Example 5), (Configuration Example 6), and (Configuration Example 7).

[0131] (Configuration Example 9) When the rotation angle of the reference position of the outer circumferential portion of the valve portion is within a first rotation range, the flow rate gradually increases with the rotation angle, and when the rotation angle exceeds the first rotation range and transitions to a second rotation range, the flow rate suddenly increases. The flow rate control device according to (Configuration Example 1) or (Configuration Example 2).

[0132] (Configuration Example 10) A three-dimensional modeling apparatus, a plasticizing section for plasticizing the material into a molten material; a nozzle that ejects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing unit toward a stage; Equipped with The plasticizing unit has a flow rate adjusting unit that adjusts the flow rate of the molten material supplied to the nozzle, The flow rate adjusting unit is a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Three-dimensional printing equipment.

[0133] (Configuration Example 11) 1. An injection molding apparatus comprising: a plasticizing section for plasticizing the material into a molten material; a nozzle that injects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing section into a mold; a flow rate adjusting unit provided between the plasticizing unit and the nozzle; Equipped with The flow rate adjusting unit is a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Injection molding equipment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 20...material supply section, 22...supply path, 30...plasticizing section, 30c...cth plasticizing section, 31...screw case, 31c...cth screw case, 32...drive motor, 32c...cth drive motor, 40...flat screw, 40c...cth flat screw, 41...upper surface, 42...groove forming surface, 43...side surface, 44...material inlet, 45...surface groove portion, 45c...cth surface groove portion, 46...ridge portion, 47...center portion, 50...barrel, 50c...cth barrel, 52...screw opposing surface, 54...guide groove, 56...first through hole, 56c...1cth through hole, 57...second through hole, 58...heater, 5 9...refrigerant piping, 61...nozzle, 68...nozzle flow path, 69...nozzle hole, 70...flow rate adjustment portion, 70c...cth flow rate adjustment portion, 71...valve unit, 71c...cth valve unit, 73...tip portion, 75...recessed portion, 75a...groove portion, 75b...second groove portion, 75c...third groove portion, 76...flange portion, 77...first contact surface, 78...rear end portion, 80...main body portion, 80c...cth main body portion, 82...first flow path, 83...second flow path, 84...cross hole, 85...sliding portion, 86...support portion, 87...second contact surface, 88...lid portion, 89...ball bearing, 90...suction portion, 92...cylinder, 93...plunger, 100...three-dimensional structure Molding device, 101...valve drive unit, 102...plunger drive unit, 103...refrigerant pump, 200...molding unit, 300...stage, 310...molding surface, 400...movement mechanism, 500...control unit, 700...injection molding device, 710...injection control mechanism, 711...injection cylinder, 712...second plunger, 713...second plunger drive unit, 720...second nozzle, 730...mold unit, 731...movable mold, 732...fixed mold, 740...mold clamping device, 741...mold drive unit, 750...second control unit, 1011...first characteristic, 2011...second characteristic, 2021...third characteristic, 3001...fourth valve unit , 3002a...Upper fluid flow path, 3002b...Lower fluid flow path, 3011...Fixed member, 3012...Moving member, 3111...Gap portion, 3211...No. 1 hole part, 3212...2nd hole part, A1...valve part, A1a...1st divided part, A1b...2nd divided part, A2...2nd valve part, A3...3rd valve part, B1...1st surface , B2...second surface, AX...first central axis, CL1...first clearance part, CL2...second clearance part, Cv...cavity, OB...three-dimensional object, P1...first position, P2...second position, P1a...firsta position, P2a...seconda position, RS...storage chamber, RX...center axis, RXc...cth center axis,T1...first table, T2...second table,

Claims

1. A flow rate adjusting device that adjusts the flow rate of a fluid, a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Flow control device.

2. The valve portion has a cylindrical shape. The flow control device according to claim 1 .

3. The groove portion has a cross-sectional area larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​an opening of the nozzle and a length longer than the nozzle. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The cross-sectional area of ​​the groove portion decreases from the one side to the other side. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The diameter of the opening of the nozzle is 500 μm or less. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 3 .

6. The length of the opening of the nozzle is 500 μm or less. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 3 .

7. The cross-sectional area of ​​the groove is at least twice the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 3 .

8. The length of the groove is 5 times or more the length of the nozzle. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 3 .

9. When the rotation angle of the reference position of the outer circumferential portion of the valve portion is within a first rotation range, the flow rate gradually increases with the rotation angle, and when the rotation angle exceeds the first rotation range and transitions to a second rotation range, the flow rate suddenly increases. The flow rate adjusting device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. A three-dimensional modeling apparatus, a plasticizing section for plasticizing the material into a molten material; a nozzle that ejects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing unit toward a stage; Equipped with The plasticizing unit has a flow rate adjusting unit that adjusts the flow rate of the molten material supplied to the nozzle, The flow rate adjusting unit is a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Three-dimensional printing equipment.

11. 1. An injection molding apparatus comprising: a plasticizing section for plasticizing the material into a molten material; a nozzle that injects the molten material supplied from the plasticizing section into a mold; a flow rate adjusting unit provided between the plasticizing unit and the nozzle; Equipped with The flow rate adjusting unit is a main body; a valve portion rotatably disposed on the main body portion; Equipped with The valve portion is A cutout portion; a groove portion provided along the rotation direction of the outer periphery of the valve portion and at a position different from the notch portion; and One of the grooves communicates with the notch, and the other of the grooves does not communicate with the notch. Injection molding equipment.

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