Powder spraying equipment, 3D printing equipment and 3D printing systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a powder spraying device, which includes a device body, an adjustment assembly, and a dust removal mechanism. The adjustment assembly is provided in the device body, and the adjustment assembly faces a powder spraying surface, a first end of the dust removal mechanism is provided in the device body, the first end of the dust removal mechanism is provided to cover the adjustment assembly, and a second end of the dust removal mechanism communicates with the first end of the dust removal mechanism, and the second end of the dust removal mechanism extends to the outside of the device body. The present invention also relates to a 3D printing equipment and a 3D printing system. The present invention can solve the problem that dust generated in the conventional powder spraying process affects the printing quality.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202210585699.7 (Name of Invention: Powder Spraying Apparatus and 3D Printing Equipment) filed on May 30, 2022 and Chinese Patent Application No. 202221314042.9 (Name of Invention: Powder Spraying Apparatus and 3D Printing Equipment) filed on May 30, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of 3D printing equipment, and in particular to a powder sprinkling device, a 3D printing equipment and a 3D printing system. [Background technology]

[0003] With the continuous development of the industry, 3D printing sand mold technology is gradually becoming mature. This method specifically involves uniformly scattering a layer of powder on the base, scanning the print head to spray the liquid material in a specific area, and then bonding the powder at the sprayed area, at which time the base descends a distance of a certain layer thickness, and repeating the above steps until the powder scattering printing work of all layers is completed.

[0004] In a 3DP type printer, the granular material is first put into the powder spreader, then the bottom plate is raised and lowered, and the powder spreader spreads a layer of powder material, then the powder is leveled (flattened) with a tool such as a blade, and finally the nozzle selectively sprays the binder onto the laid powder according to the cross-sectional shape of the prototype, binding the powder in the solid area of ​​the prototype cross section to form the cross-sectional contour. After the printing of one layer is completed, the worktable descends to the height of the next cross section, and the above steps are repeated until the printing of the prototype is completed. In this way, the required workpiece is formed by printing one layer at a time. However, in the traditional printing process, the dust generated by powder spreading can be effectively prevented, and the powder concentration on the powder surface is easily increased during the printing process, which poses the risk of dust explosion. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In view of the above, there is a need to provide a powder spraying device, 3D printing equipment, and 3D printing system to address the problem of dust generated during the traditional powder spraying process affecting printing quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention employs the following technical solutions. In a first aspect, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a powder spraying device comprising an apparatus body, an adjustment assembly and a dust removal mechanism, the adjustment assembly being mounted on the apparatus body, the adjustment assembly facing a powder spraying surface, a first end of the dust removal mechanism being mounted on the apparatus body, the first end of the dust removal mechanism being mounted to cover the adjustment assembly, a second end of the dust removal mechanism communicating with the first end of the dust removal mechanism, and the second end of the dust removal mechanism extending outside the apparatus body.

[0007] In a second aspect, according to an embodiment of the present invention there is further provided a 3D printing installation including the powder sprinkling device as described above.

[0008] In a third aspect, according to an embodiment of the present invention there is further provided a 3D printing system including the above-mentioned 3D printing apparatus. Effect of the Invention

[0009] The technical means of the present invention have the following beneficial effects: In the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention, a dust removal mechanism is provided in the adjustment assembly, so that the dust caused by the powder sprinkling can be effectively removed by sucking up the dust from the device body 100, thereby preventing the dust concentration on the powder surface from becoming too high during the printing process, preventing the occurrence of dust explosions, and improving printing safety. In this way, the powder sprinkling effect is improved, and printing efficiency is improved while ensuring printing quality. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a powder spraying device disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a local cross-sectional view from a particular viewpoint in FIG. [Diagram 3] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a powder spraying device disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of another powder spraying device disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of another adjustment assembly disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of another powder spraying device disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a material transport section disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a part of a powder sprinkling device having a drum screen disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken from a specific viewpoint in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a portion of a printhead mechanism disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken from a particular viewpoint in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of a 3D printing equipment disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Explanation of symbols 100-main body, 110-opening, 200-adjustment assembly, 210-compaction section, 220-leveling section, 230-driving tool, 240-transmission tool, 250-compaction plate, 300-dust removal mechanism, 310-dust removal cover, 320-dust removal pipe, 330-dust collector, 331-negative pressure section, 332-first collection section, 333-second collection section, 400-feeder mechanism, 410-powder groove, 420-material transport section, 430-powder outlet, 500-mesh member, 600-drum screen, 610-vibration ball, 700-print head mechanism, 710-housing, 711-exhaust section, 712-airflow equalization device, 800-work box, 900-lift mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] In order to better understand the present invention, the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention can be realized in many different forms, and the present specification is not limited to the described embodiments. The purpose of providing these embodiments is to provide a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the present disclosure.

[0013] 1-3, an embodiment of the present invention discloses a powder sprinkling device. The disclosed powder sprinkling device includes a device body 100, an adjustment assembly 200, and a dust removal mechanism 300.

[0014] The device body 100 is a main body member of the powder sprinkling device. The device body 100 can provide a mounting position for other components of the powder sprinkling device. In a specific powder sprinkling process, the device body 100 drives other components of the powder sprinkling device to achieve a specific powder sprinkling task.

[0015] The adjustment assembly 200 is provided in the device body 100, and the adjustment assembly 200 faces the powder spraying surface. In this case, when performing the powder spraying operation, the adjustment assembly 200 can level (flatten) or compact the powder surface of each layer after powder spraying, thereby ensuring the uniformity of the powder surface of each layer and ensuring the printing quality.

[0016] A first end of the dust removing mechanism 300 is installed in the device body 100 to cover the adjustment assembly 200. A second end of the dust removing mechanism 300 communicates with the first end of the dust removing mechanism 300, and the second end of the dust removing mechanism 300 extends to the outside of the device body 100. In a specific operation process, dust is likely to be generated when the adjustment assembly 200 smoothes or compacts the powder surface. In this case, the stirred-up dust enters the first end of the dust removing mechanism 300 installed to cover the adjustment assembly 200, and is discharged from the device body 100 through the second end of the dust removing mechanism 300.

[0017] As can be seen from the above, in the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention, by providing the dust removal mechanism 300 in the adjustment assembly 200, the dust caused by the powder sprinkling can be effectively removed by sucking up the dust from the device body 100, thereby preventing the dust concentration on the powder surface from becoming too high during the printing process, preventing the occurrence of dust explosions, and improving printing safety. In this way, the powder sprinkling effect is improved, and printing efficiency is improved while ensuring printing quality.

[0018] In the embodiment disclosed in the present invention, there are several specific structures of the dust removal mechanism 300. In one embodiment, the dust removal mechanism 300 may include a dust removal cover 310 and a dust removal pipe 320, and the dust removal cover 310 may be provided to cover the adjustment assembly 200. For ease of installation, the dust removal cover 310 may be provided on the upper side of the device body 100, and the adjustment assembly 200 may be provided on the lower side of the device body 100, and the dust removal cover 310 and the adjustment assembly 200 are positioned opposite each other, so that dust stirred up during the operation of the adjustment assembly 200 can enter the dust removal cover 310.

[0019] Furthermore, one end of the dust removal pipe 320 may be connected to the dust removal cover 310, and the other end of the dust removal pipe 320 may extend to the outside of the device body 100. In this case, the dust that has entered the dust removal cover 310 can be discharged to the outside of the device body 100 through the dust removal pipe 320. In this way, the structure is simple, the installation is convenient, the assembly cost is low, and the compactness of the structure of the powder sprinkling device is improved.

[0020] In order to improve the dust removal effect, the cross section of the dust removal cover 310 may be gradually reduced along the direction away from the adjustment assembly 200. In this way, the dust flow is facilitated and a higher dust removal effect can be achieved. The dust removal cover 310 and the dust removal pipe 320 may be connected by adhesive, welding, screw connection or other methods, which are not limited in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Furthermore, in order to improve the dust-removal effect of the dust cover 310, the device body 100 may be provided with an opening 110 facing the adjustment assembly 200. That is, the operating parts of the adjustment assembly 200 can be directly seen through the opening 110. The dust cover 310 may cover the opening 110, that is, the dust cover 310 is equivalent to covering the adjustment assembly 200. In this way, the dust cover 310 has a higher dust-removal effect, and the installation effect of the dust cover 310 is also improved, the space occupied by the dust cover 310 is reduced, and the assembly effect of the entire powder sprinkling device is improved.

[0022] Moreover, dust kicked up from the device body 100 is usually caused by the operation of the adjustment assembly. Therefore, in one embodiment, the dust removal cover 310 may extend toward the adjustment assembly 200 through the opening 110, so that the dust removal cover 310 can cover most of the adjustment assembly 200, and the dust kicked up by the adjustment assembly 200 can be discharged to the outside of the device body 100 through the dust removal mechanism 300, thereby ensuring the cleanliness of the inside of the device body 100.

[0023] In the embodiment disclosed in the present invention, the dust removal mechanism 300 may further include a dust collector 330. The dust collector 330 is connected to the dust removal cover 310 via a dust removal pipe 320. In this case, the dust collector 330 can provide a negative pressure to the dust removal cover 310. This allows the dust to be easily sucked out, improving the dust removal efficiency, and also making it convenient to collect the dust by the dust collector 330.

[0024] Furthermore, the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a feeder mechanism 400. The feeder mechanism 400 provides powder material to ensure the powder sprinkling operation. The dust collector 330 may include a negative pressure section 331, a first collecting section 332, and a second collecting section 333, which are sequentially connected. The negative pressure section 331 can provide negative pressure to the first collecting section 332, thereby ensuring normal dust suction operation in the normal device body 100. The second collecting section 333 can be connected to the feeder mechanism 400. In this case, in a specific operation process, the first collecting section 332 performs dust suction operation through the negative pressure section 331. Then, the dust collected in the first collecting section 332 is transported to the second collecting section 333 and then to the feeder mechanism 400, thereby realizing the recycling of the powder material, which can be environmentally friendly and save money while ensuring the safety of operation.

[0025] Of course, the second collecting section 333 and the feeder mechanism 400 may be connected by a pipe, which is convenient for assembling and arranging each member. Of course, the dust removing pipe 320 and one end of the pipe may be a flexible pipe or an expandable pipe, etc., which prevents the related pipe from affecting the powder scattering operation.

[0026] In addition, in the assembly of the first collecting section 332 and the second collecting section 333, the first collecting section 332 may be provided on the second collecting section 333, so that the dust in the first collecting section 332 can be easily transported to the second collecting section 333. In one embodiment, a filter may be provided between the first collecting section 332 and the second collecting section 333 to filter impurities in the dust. This allows the dust transported to the second collecting section 333 to be usable. In another embodiment, a filter may be provided in the feeder mechanism 400, so that the dust entering the feeder mechanism 400 can be preferentially filtered before being transported into the cavity to perform the powder scattering operation, thereby ensuring the printing quality.

[0027] Furthermore, a negative pressure member may be provided in the feeder mechanism 400. The negative pressure member can provide negative pressure, so that the dust in the second collector 333 can be easily transported to the feeder mechanism 400, which is convenient for circulating and collecting the dust.

[0028] In order to ensure the quality of dust collection, the dust collector 330 may further include a gas-solid separation unit. The gas-solid separation unit may be connected to the first collection unit 332. The gas-solid separation unit can separate the powder material into gas and solid. In this case, when the dust reaches the first collection unit 332, the gas-solid separation unit operates to suck out the gas in the dust, and the dust falls into the second collection unit 333 by gravity, thereby achieving effective collection of the dust, improving the efficiency of dust collection, and finally facilitating the circulating collection and utilization of the dust.

[0029] In the embodiment of the present invention, the number of the adjustment assemblies 200 may be two. The two adjustment assemblies 200 may be provided on both sides of the device body 100. The dust removal mechanism 300 may be provided to cover both of the two adjustment assemblies 200 (FIG. 2). In this way, the powder sprinkling device can realize two-way powder sprinkling. During the powder sprinkling operation, when the powder sprinkling device sprinkles powder along one direction, one adjustment assembly 200 smoothes or compacts the powder surface, and when the powder sprinkling device sprinkles powder along the other direction, the other adjustment assembly 200 smoothes or compacts the powder surface. In addition, the dust removal mechanism 300 performs the dust removal operation for both of the two adjustment assemblies 200 to ensure the dust removal effect. In this way, the powder sprinkling effect can be improved and the response efficiency can be guaranteed. Of course, according to specific circumstances, the device body 100 may be provided with multiple adjustment assemblies 200. A dust removal mechanism 300 may be provided to cover each of the adjustment assemblies 200, thereby improving printing efficiency.

[0030] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a feeder mechanism 400. The feeder mechanism 400 may be provided on the device body 100. The feeder mechanism 400 may be located between the two assemblies 200. The feeder mechanism 400 may be used for powder sprinkling operations. In this case, when performing bidirectional powder sprinkling operations, only one feeder mechanism 400 can complete the bidirectional powder sprinkling operations, which improves the operating efficiency and ensures a high compactness of the structure of the powder sprinkling device, making it convenient to arrange each component.

[0031] In another embodiment, the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a feeder mechanism 400. The number of the feeder mechanisms 400 may be two. The two feeder mechanisms 400 may both be provided on the device main body 100. The two feeder mechanisms 400 can perform powder sprinkling operations in two directions, improving operation efficiency.

[0032] In a specific arrangement, the two feeder mechanisms 400 may be provided on both sides of the two adjustment assemblies 200, respectively. Alternatively, the two feeder mechanisms 400 may be provided at an interval between the two adjustment assemblies 200. Alternatively, the feeder mechanisms 400 and the adjustment assemblies 200 may be arranged to cross each other in the powder dispersion direction. The present invention does not limit the specific arrangement of the feeder mechanisms 400 and the adjustment assemblies 200.

[0033] In the embodiment disclosed in the present invention, the adjustment assembly 200 may include a compacting unit 210 and a leveling unit 220. The compacting unit 210 and the leveling unit 220 may be arranged at intervals in sequence in the powder scattering direction. In this case, when performing the powder scattering operation, the feeder mechanism 400 may include a powder groove 410. The powder groove 410 has a powder outlet 430 toward the powder surface. In the powder scattering direction, the powder material in the powder groove 410 falls onto the powder surface from the powder outlet 430, and then the leveling unit 220 and the compacting unit 210 work in sequence. The leveling unit 220 levels (flattens) the powder surface of the powder scattered from the powder groove to ensure the uniformity of the powder surface. The compacting unit 210 compacts the powder surface leveled by the leveling unit 220, improves the density of the powder surface, and ensures the printing quality.

[0034] Of course, there are various specific structures of the compacting unit 210 and the leveling unit 220. For example, the leveling unit 220 may be a blade, a brush, a toothed brush, a roller, etc. The compacting unit 210 may be a roller, a pressing plate, etc. In one embodiment, both the compacting unit 210 and the leveling unit 220 may be rollers. This can improve the operating effect of the powder spreading device while ensuring the uniformity of the powder surface. In addition, in a specific assembly process, the distance between the compacting unit 210 and the powder surface may be slightly smaller than the distance between the leveling unit 220 and the powder surface. This can provide a better leveling and compacting effect and ensure better printing quality.

[0035] Furthermore, the circumferential surface of the roller may be uneven. Specifically, the circumferential surface of the roller has a certain degree of roughness. In this case, the surface roughness of the circumferential surface of the roller is small, which ensures a better rolling effect of the roller and ensures the uniformity of the powder-spreading surface. Optionally, the surface roughness of the circumferential surface of the roller may be less than Ra3.2, which provides a better spreading effect of the powder-spreading surface.

[0036] The forming method of the circumferential surface of the roller may include one of machining, 3D printing, casting, and shot blasting. Specifically, in order to increase the roughness of the roller, it can be obtained by multiple methods. For example, a, when processing the roller, the surface may have features such as a machined knife pattern. b, in the case of 3D printing technology, the surface of a roller of a similar structure that is 3D printed may be in a relatively rough form. c, various surface patterns are created on the roller surface by shot blasting technology to achieve the required surface roughness. In addition, the forming method of the roller can be in various forms. For example, it may be a single molding, or a similar structure formed by combining multiple structures.

[0037] When assembled, one set of adjustment assemblies 200 may include multiple compacting units 210 and multiple leveling units 220, which can better perform the leveling and compacting operations.

[0038] In another embodiment, the compacting unit 210 may be a roller, and the leveling unit 220 may be one of a blade, a tooth-like structure, and a brush-like mechanism. As shown in FIG. 4, the roller may have the structure and molding manner described in the above embodiment. In this case, during the powder spreading process, the powder spreading surface can not only be leveled and compacted by the leveling unit 220, but also roll-pressed by the compacting unit 210. This ensures that the density uniformity and compactness of the powder spreading surface of each layer are good. Compared with the conventional powder spreading mechanism using a single blade or a single roll, the powder spreading mechanism disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention provides a higher compactness of the powder surface of each layer laid down, and the quality of the printed product is higher.

[0039] Specifically, in one embodiment, the compacting part 210 may be a roller, and the leveling part 220 may be a blade. In the connection process, the first side of the blade may be connected to the bottom of the device body 100, and the second side of the blade may face the powder-spreading surface, thereby achieving the function of leveling the powder-spreading surface. In this case, the structure of the leveling part 220 is simple, convenient to install, and convenient to manufacture. In order to ensure the leveling effect on the powder-spreading surface, the first side of the blade may be detachably connected to the bottom of the device body 100, and a plurality of blades with different specifications may be provided, and the blades with different specifications may be replaced according to specific circumstances. This makes the leveling part 220 more practical and achieves a higher powder-spreading effect.

[0040] In another embodiment, the compacting unit 210 may be a roller, and the leveling unit 220 may be a toothed structure member. The toothed portion of the toothed structure member may face the powder-spreading surface. The toothed structure member may specifically include a mounting frame and a toothed portion provided on the mounting frame. The toothed structure member may be attached to the device body 100 through the mounting frame. In the operation process, the continuously distributed teeth contact the powder layer to level the powder. In this way, the leveling effect on the powder layer is improved, and the uneven positions on the powder-spreading surface are easily leveled, which is favorable for the roll press effect by the compacting unit 210 later.

[0041] In another embodiment, the compacting unit 210 may be a roller, and the leveling unit 220 may be a brush-like structural member. The brush-like portion of the brush-like structural member may face the powder-spreading surface. In this case, in a specific operation process, the brush-like portion can level the powder-spreading surface, thereby improving the flatness of the powder-spreading surface and further improving the density uniformity of the powder layer.

[0042] In the embodiment disclosed in the present invention, the adjustment assembly 200 may be other mechanisms. Specifically, the adjustment assembly 200 may further include a driving tool 230, a transmission tool 240, and a compaction plate 250. The driving tool 230 is provided in the device body 100. The first side of the compaction plate 250 is drivingly connected to the driving tool 230 through the transmission tool 240. The second side of the compaction plate 250 faces the powder spray surface (FIG. 5). In this case, the driving tool 230 can be driven by the transmission tool 240 to move the compaction plate 250 in a direction approaching or moving away from the powder spray surface. In the process of application, when the device body 100 moves the adjustment assembly 200, first realize the powder sprinkling operation, then the driving tool 230 drives the compaction plate 250 to move toward the powder sprinkling surface to press the powder sprinkling surface, so that the thickness of the powder sprinkling surface is reduced, the density of the powder sprinkling surface is increased, and the powder sprinkling surface is more compact. In addition, in order to ensure the flatness of the powder sprinkling surface, the second side surface of the compaction plate 250 can be a smooth surface, so as to ensure that the pressed powder sprinkling surface is relatively flat.

[0043] As can be seen from the above, during the powder sprinkling device's powder sprinkling process, the driving tool 230 drives the compaction plate 250 to move toward the laid powder sprinkled surface, so that the compaction plate 250 can press the powder sprinkled surface, so that the density of the powder sprinkled surface gradually increases, and the compactness of the powder sprinkled surface of each layer is good. Compared with the traditional powder sprinkling process, the method of the present invention ensures that the compactness of the powder sprinkled surface of each layer is high, and the flatness of the powder sprinkled surface is improved, which is convenient for the powder sprinkling work of the next layer, and finally ensures that the powder surface has a high uniformity, and improves the quality of the printed product.

[0044] In addition, the adjustment assembly 200 may further include an adjuster. The first side of the compaction plate 250 may be connected to the transmission device 240 through the adjuster. The adjuster can be used to adjust the second side of the compaction plate 250 to be parallel to the powder sprinkling surface. In this case, first detect whether the second side of the compaction plate 250 is parallel to the powder sprinkling surface, and then use the adjuster to adjust the orientation and position of the compaction plate 250 so that the second side of the compaction plate 250 is parallel to the powder sprinkling surface, so that the compaction plate 250 has a good pressing effect on the powder sprinkling surface, which is convenient for the subsequent powder sprinkling action, and finally ensures the quality of the printed product. Of course, the adjuster can be an automatic adjuster or a manual adjuster, and is not limited thereto in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] The powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a feeder mechanism 400. The feeder mechanism 400 may include a powder groove 410 and a material conveying section 420. The material conveying section 420 may be provided in the powder groove 410. The powder inlet may face the material conveying section 420, so that the powder material conveyed into the powder groove 410 falls into the material conveying section 420 first. The material conveying section 420 may be provided opposite the powder outlet 430 of the powder groove 410. In this case, during the operation, the powder material that falls into the material conveying section 420 falls out of the material conveying section 420 better due to the movement of the material conveying section 420 and falls into the powder outlet 430 opposite the material conveying section 420, finally realizing the powder sprinkling effect. In this way, the powder drop efficiency is improved, and the powder material can be prevented from blocking in the powder groove 410 and affecting the powder sprinkling effect.

[0046] Of course, the specific structure of the material transporting part 420 may include a plurality of kinds. For example, it may be a blade member, a vibration member, a comb member, etc. In one embodiment, the material transporting part 420 may be a helical member (FIG. 7). The helical member is rotatably installed in the powder groove 410. The helical member may extend along the length direction of the powder outlet 430. In this case, the helical member moves the powder material by rotating, so that the powder material is more easily transported to the powder outlet 430 opposite the material transporting part 420, and finally the powder scattering action is achieved, the powder drop efficiency is improved, and the powder material can be prevented from blocking in the powder groove 410 and affecting the powder scattering effect. When installed, a driving device may be provided on one side of the device body 100. The driving device may be rotatably connected to the helical member.

[0047] In one embodiment, the helical member includes a first stage and a second stage that are connected to each other. The helical directions of the first stage and the second stage may be opposite to each other. That is, the helical directions of the helical blades on the two stages that are connected to each other in the helical member are opposite to each other. The powder inlet may be toward the portion that connects the first stage and the second stage. In this case, when the powder material is transported to the portion that connects the first stage and the second stage, the first stage and the second stage that have opposite helical directions transport the powder material toward both ends of the helical member, so that the powder material transported to the powder outlet 430 spreads along the length direction of the powder outlet 430, thereby improving the uniformity of the powder distribution while ensuring the width of the powder distribution.

[0048] In another embodiment, the helical member may include a rotating shaft, a first helical blade, and a second helical blade. The first helical blade and the second helical blade may both be spirally arranged on the rotating shaft. The first helical blade and the second helical blade both extend along the length direction of the rotating shaft. The helical directions of the first helical blade and the second helical blade may be opposite to each other. The helical member thus formed has two helical blades arranged one on top of the other and having opposite helical directions. In the rotation process, the powder material in the powder groove 410 can be spread more uniformly along the length direction of the helical member, and the powder material transported to the powder outlet 430 can be ensured to be spread uniformly along the length direction of the powder outlet 430, thereby improving the uniformity of powder dispersion. Of course, there are many more specific structures of the material transporting part 420, which are not limited in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0049] In the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention, the feeder mechanism 400 may further include other structures. As shown in FIG. 6, specifically, the feeder mechanism 400 may have a powder outlet 430 facing the powder sprinkling surface. The powder outlet 430 may be provided with a mesh member 500. That is, by blocking the powder outlet 430 with the mesh member 500, when the powder material in the feeder mechanism 400 falls, it is first screened by the mesh member 500 and then laid on the powder sprinkling surface. In this way, the powder material is uniformly sprinkled on the powder sprinkling surface by the mesh member 500, and the quality of the powder sprinkling is improved.

[0050] Furthermore, the mesh member 500 is oscillatably mounted on the powder outlet 430. That is, the mesh member 500 can be oscillated by the driving mechanism. In a specific operation process, the driving mechanism drives the mesh member 500 to oscillate at a predetermined angle, so that the powder material on the mesh member 500 can be screened, so that the powder material on the mesh member 500 can be relatively quickly dropped onto the powder scattering surface through the mesh of the mesh member 500, and the powder scattering operation can be achieved. In this way, the efficiency of powder scattering is improved, while the mesh of the mesh member 500 is prevented from being clogged, and the quality of powder scattering is guaranteed. Compared with the conventional powder scattering mechanism, the powder scattering device of the present invention has an exquisite design, a simple structure, a low manufacturing cost, a good powder dropping effect, and a guaranteed printing quality.

[0051] Of course, there are many kinds of driving mechanisms. For example, the driving mechanism may be a telescopic motor, which drives the swing of the mesh member 500. It may also be a crank rod mechanism, a cam link mechanism, etc., and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0052] The mesh member 500 may be a flat structural member, which is convenient for installation. The mesh member 500 may also be an arc-shaped structural member, with the concave surface of the arc-shaped structural member facing the powder outlet 430. The mesh member 500 of this shape can better screen the powder material, and the arc-shaped structure makes the powder material fall more uniformly, improving the effect of powder scattering.

[0053] Furthermore, the mesh member 500 may be a semicircular structural member. The concave surface of the semicircular structural member may face the powder scattering surface or face the powder inlet. The mesh member 500 may be a closed structural member, that is, the cross section of the mesh member 500 in the vertical direction is an oblong hole. Of course, there are many specific structures of the mesh member 500, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0054] The mesh shape of the mesh member 500 may include at least one of a rectangle, a circle, and a kidney shape, and may be other shapes, and is not limited thereto in the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, in the process of manufacturing the mesh member 500, the mesh member 500 may be formed by machining and carving a circular arc-shaped workpiece, or the mesh member 500 may be directly manufactured and shaped. The mesh member 500 may be an integrated structural member, or a structural member in which multiple parts are joined together.

[0055] The mesh member 500 may be a flexible part. In this case, since the structure of the mesh member 500 itself has a flexible characteristic, under the action of the driving mechanism, the unfixed part on the mesh member 500 will generate a tumbling micro-angular vibration due to resonance, so that the powder material on its surface will become sparse and naturally fall off, falling onto the powder surface, improving the efficiency of powder scattering.

[0056] Furthermore, the cross section of the mesh member 500 may be in the shape of a circular arc. In the extending direction from the bottom of the mesh member 500 to both sides, the size of the mesh may be gradually increased, or the number of meshes may be gradually increased in the extending direction from the bottom of the mesh member 500 to both sides, or the size of the mesh may be gradually increased and the number of meshes may be gradually increased in the extending direction from the bottom of the mesh member 500 to both sides. In this way, the falling efficiency of the powder material is higher, and the effect of powder scattering is guaranteed.

[0057] The powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a drum screen 600 and a feeder mechanism 400 (FIGS. 8 and 9). The drum screen 600 may be movably mounted on the device body 100, and the drum screen 600 may face the powder sprinkling surface. The feeder mechanism 400 is for supplying material into the drum screen 600, and the drum screen 600 spreads the powder material transported from the feeder mechanism 400 to the drum screen 600 to the powder sprinkling surface by its movement. In this case, the powder material transported to the drum screen 600 can be uniformly dispersed therein and lumps in the powder material can be broken down by the rolling or swinging action of the drum screen 600, and then the powder material is spread to the powder sprinkling surface by the mesh of the drum screen 600. Compared with conventional powder spreading mechanisms, the method of the present invention makes the powder spread more uniformly, prevents sand pulling and pushing, and allows the amount of powder falling to be controlled by adjusting the mesh number and rotation speed of the drum screen 600, thereby improving practicality.

[0058] Furthermore, the drum screen 600 is provided to be able to roll on the device body 100. The drum screen 600 spreads the powder material onto the powder spreading surface by rolling. In this case, the rolling drum screen 600 can uniformly disperse the powder material transported to the drum screen 600 and can break down lumps in the powder material, and then the powder material is spread onto the powder spreading surface by the mesh of the drum screen 600.

[0059] In one embodiment, the drum screen 600 may be provided with a plurality of vibration balls 610. In this case, during the rolling process of the drum screen 600, the vibration balls 610 bounce inside the drum screen 600 and contact the drum screen 600 to provide vibration force to the drum screen 600, so as to drop the powder stuck in the mesh and ensure the efficiency of powder dropping. Also, the vibration balls 610 may be elastic balls, which ensure the vibration effect. Of course, the drum screen 600 may be connected to other vibration mechanisms such as a vibrator to prevent clogging of the mesh, but the embodiment of the present invention does not limit the specific vibration mechanism.

[0060] In the embodiment disclosed in the present invention, the drum screen 600 may be provided with a plurality of partition plates extending along its length. The plurality of partition plates divide the drum screen 600 into a plurality of independent chambers. The plurality of independent chambers can accommodate different kinds of powder materials. The feeder mechanism 400 supplies materials to the different chambers. When the corresponding chamber faces the powder sprinkling surface, the drum screen 600 swings to sprinkle the powder materials in the corresponding chambers on the powder sprinkling surface, thereby achieving the powder sprinkling function. In this case, by storing the powder materials in the plurality of independent chambers, various kinds of powder materials can be stored inside the drum screen 600 at the same time, and when the powder materials are sprinkled, the types of powder materials can be selected and sprinkled, which improves the operation efficiency.

[0061] Of course, the multiple independent chambers may include a normal powder material chamber and a mixed powder material chamber. In this case, the mixing ratio of the normal powder material and the special powder material can be appropriately selected when mixing and scattering the powder material. This ensures the quality of the printing product while avoiding the waste of the special powder material and saving the production cost. Compared with the prior art, the step of returning the drum screen 600 to the powder adding device to add the powder material when replacing or mixing the powder material is omitted, so that the operation efficiency is improved.

[0062] Based on the powder sprinkling device disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention, the embodiments of the present invention further disclose a 3D printing equipment including the powder sprinkling device described in any of the above embodiments.

[0063] The 3D printing equipment disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may include a print head mechanism 700 and a gas source treatment mechanism. The print head mechanism 700 may include a housing 710. The housing 710 may have a receiving chamber. The housing 710 has an exhaust port 711 communicating with the receiving chamber. As shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the gas source treatment mechanism includes a particle separator, a cooling device, and an airflow equalizing device 712. The airflow equalizing device 712 is disposed in the receiving chamber. The particle separator, the cooling device, and the airflow equalizing device 712 are sequentially connected. The particle separator filters particulate matter in the gas, the cooling device cools the gas, and the airflow equalizing device 712 delivers the treated gas into the receiving chamber.

[0064] In a specific operation process, the gas first enters the particle separator. The particle separator can filter particulate matter such as powder materials in the gas. The filtered gas passes through the cooling device. The cooling device lowers the temperature of the gas passing through the chamber, thereby achieving the effect of cooling. Finally, the multi-processed gas is transported to the chamber by the air flow equalization device 712, thereby lowering the temperature of the components in the chamber. In the above operation process, the exhaust part 711 connected to the chamber, which is opened in the housing 710, exhausts the excess gas in the chamber, thereby avoiding problems such as deformation of the housing 710 caused by excessive internal air pressure.

[0065] As can be seen from the above, in the embodiment disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention, the gas source treatment mechanism introduces the multi-treated gas into the print head mechanism 700, which not only reduces the temperature of the internal environment of the print head mechanism 700, but also filters out impurities in the gas to ensure that the operating members in the print head mechanism 700 are not affected by dust. In addition, the exhaust part 711 communicating with the receiving chamber ensures the air flow in the print head mechanism 700 and prevents external dust from entering the print head mechanism 700, and avoids the need to open multiple heat dissipation holes in the housing 710, thereby ensuring the sealing of the print head mechanism 700 and extending the service life of the print head mechanism 700.

[0066] In an optional embodiment, the 3D printing equipment disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may include a working box 800, a printing bottom plate, and a lift mechanism 900. The printing bottom plate is movably installed in the working box 800. The lift mechanism 900 may be drivingly connected to the printing bottom plate. The lift mechanism 900 can drive the printing bottom plate to move up and down in the working box 800 to achieve a specific printing operation. The lift mechanism 900 may be a screw transmission mechanism, a belt transmission mechanism, a linear motor, etc., and is not limited thereto in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] In addition, the lift mechanism 900 is detachably connected to the printing bottom plate. That is, when printing is required, the lift mechanism 900 operates to drive the up and down movement of the printing bottom plate to realize the final powder scattering of each layer. After printing is completed, the lift mechanism 900 is removed from the printing bottom plate, and the printing workpiece on the printing bottom plate is moved to the next process position. In this way, the whole process of the printing workpiece is convenient and the printing efficiency is improved. There are many detachable connection methods between the lift mechanism 900 and the printing bottom plate, such as engagement connection, bolt connection, magnet connection, etc., but the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0068] In an optional form, the 3D printing equipment disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention may include a working box 800 and a lift mechanism 900 (FIG. 12). The lift mechanism 900 may be provided with a positioning tool. The positioning tool may be provided with a first connector. The bottom of the working box 800 may be provided with a second connector. The first connector can be adapted to be connected to the second connector. Optionally, one of the first connector and the second connector may be a dovetail, and the other may be a dovetail. Thus, the positioning tool on the lift mechanism 900 and the working box 800 are connected by a dovetail and a dovetail, which achieves the connection between the two, and is also convenient for the working box 800 to slide out of the positioning tool, which is convenient for further processing of the 3D printed object in the working box 800. Of course, the first connector and the second connector may be other adapted connectors, which is not limited to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] In addition, a locking member may be provided on the side of the positioning tool facing the working box 800. When the first connector and the second connector are connected, the locking member can elastically contact the bottom of the working box 800. Specifically, when the first connector and the second connector are connected, the locking member abuts the bottom of the working box 800, thereby ensuring the connection stability of the first connector and the second connector, and improving the connection effect of the lift mechanism 900 and the working box 800. In this way, the direct connection between the working box 800 and the lift mechanism 900 is achieved, which can directly drive the movement of the working box 800 and can be applied to specific printing scenes. The locking member may be an elastic member, for example, a spring, but this is not limited in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Based on the 3D printing equipment disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention, the embodiments of the present invention further provide a 3D printing system. The 3D printing system includes the 3D printing equipment described in the above embodiments. The 3D printing system further includes at least one of a sieving equipment, a mixing equipment, a drying equipment, a hardening equipment, a powder removal equipment, and a sintering equipment. That is, the 3D printing system may include the 3D printing equipment described in the above embodiments and one of a sieving equipment, a mixing equipment, a drying equipment, a hardening equipment, a powder removal equipment, and a sintering equipment, or may include the 3D printing equipment described in the above embodiments and a plurality of a sieving equipment, a mixing equipment, a drying equipment, a hardening equipment, a powder removal equipment, and a sintering equipment. Different equipment can be selected to perform the printing operation according to the specific work scene and the performance of the printed product.

[0071] Furthermore, when the 3D printing system includes the 3D printing equipment and the sieving equipment, mixing equipment, drying equipment, hardening equipment, powder removal equipment, and sintering equipment described in the above embodiment, the sieving equipment, mixing equipment, 3D printing equipment, drying equipment, hardening equipment, powder removal equipment, and sintering equipment may be installed in sequence. That is, the sieving equipment, mixing equipment, 3D printing equipment, drying equipment, hardening equipment, powder removal equipment, and sintering equipment constitute a 3D production line, and the whole process management in the printing process of the 3D printing product can be achieved. In addition, the two adjacent equipment can be connected through a movable device. That is, the transportation of the 3D printing product can be realized by a movable device such as an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), which is convenient for better connection between each part.

[0072] Specifically, the sieving equipment is for automatically sieving powder materials, and has heating and cooling functions, which can meet the corresponding printing demands. The mixing equipment is used for mixing materials. The 3D printing equipment is used for printing and forming 3D printing products, and includes a powder feed device, a powder sprinkling device, an inkjet device, and a heating device. The drying equipment is for drying the printing products. The hardening equipment is for heating and hardening the 3D printing products to improve the performance of the products. The powder removal equipment is for performing a powder removal process on the solidified 3D printing products, and the powder can be removed by a lifting method. The powder removal equipment further includes a sieving adsorption device, which is advantageous for the recovery and utilization of powder materials. The sintering equipment is used for debinding and sintering the 3D printing products, and finally a 3D printing product that meets the corresponding performance demands can be obtained.

[0073] The above examples are merely illustrative of some embodiments of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art can make some modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and all of these are included in the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is subject to the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. A powder dispersion device comprising: The apparatus includes a device body (100), an adjustment assembly (200), and a dust removal mechanism (300), A powder spraying device, characterized in that the adjustment assembly (200) is provided in the device main body (100), the adjustment assembly (200) faces a powder spraying surface, a first end of the dust removal mechanism (300) is provided in the device main body (100), the first end of the dust removal mechanism (300) covers the adjustment assembly (200), a second end of the dust removal mechanism (300) is connected to a first end phase of the dust removal mechanism (300), and the second end of the dust removal mechanism (300) extends to the outside of the device main body (100).

2. The dust removal mechanism (300) includes a dust removal cover (310) and a dust removal pipe (320); The powder spraying device of claim 1, characterized in that the dust removal cover (310) is arranged to cover the adjustment assembly (200), one end of the dust removal pipe (320) is connected to the dust removal cover (310), and the other end of the dust removal pipe (320) extends to the outside of the device body (100).

3. The powder spraying device of claim 2, characterized in that the device body (100) has an opening (110) facing the adjustment assembly (200), and the dust cover (310) is arranged to cover the opening (110).

4. The powder spraying device according to claim 2, characterized in that the dust removal mechanism (300) further includes a dust collector (330), the dust collector (330) being in communication with the dust removal cover (310) via the dust removal pipe (320).

5. Further comprising a feeder mechanism (400); The powder spraying device of claim 4, characterized in that the dust collector (330) includes a negative pressure section (331), a first collection section (332) and a second collection section (333) which are connected in sequence, the negative pressure section (331) is for providing negative pressure to the first collection section (332), and the second collection section (333) is connected to the feeder mechanism (400).

6. The powder sprinkling device of claim 1, characterized in that the number of the adjustment assemblies (200) is two, the two adjustment assemblies (200) are provided on both sides of the device body (100), and the two adjustment assemblies (200) are each provided with a cover for the dust removal mechanism (300).

7. Further comprising a feeder mechanism (400); 7. The powder sprinkling device of claim 6, wherein the feeder mechanism (400) is provided in the device body (100), and the feeder mechanism (400) is located between two of the adjustment assemblies (200), and the feeder mechanism (400) is used for powder sprinkling operations.

8. Further comprising a feeder mechanism (400); 7. The powder sprinkling device of claim 6, wherein the number of the feeder mechanisms (400) is two, the two feeder mechanisms (400) are both provided in the device body (100), and the two feeder mechanisms (400) are provided on both sides of the two adjustment assemblies (200), respectively, or the two feeder mechanisms (400) are provided at an interval between the two adjustment assemblies (200).

9. 2. The powder spreading device of claim 1, wherein the adjustment assembly (200) includes a compacting section (210) and a leveling section (220), the compacting section (210) and the leveling section (220) being spaced apart from one another in a powder spreading direction.

10. The structure of the smoothing unit (220) includes a blade, a brush, a toothed brush, and a roller. The powder sprinkling device according to claim 9, characterized in that the structure of the compacting section (210) includes a roller and a pressing plate.

11. The powder spraying device of claim 10, characterized in that the compacting section (210) and the leveling section (220) are both rollers, and the distance between the compacting section (210) and the powder spraying surface is smaller than the distance between the leveling section (220) and the powder spraying surface.

12. 12. The powder sprinkling device according to claim 11, wherein the circumferential surface of the roller is uneven.

13. 11. The powder distribution device of claim 10, wherein the compacting portion (210) is a roller and the leveling portion (220) is one of a blade, a tooth-like structure, and a brush-like structure.

14. The adjustment assembly (200) includes a drive tool (230), a transmission tool (240), and a compaction plate (250); The powder spraying device of claim 1, characterized in that the driving tool (230) is provided on the device body (100), a first side of the compaction plate (250) is drivingly connected to the driving tool (230) via the transmission tool (240), a second side of the compaction plate (250) faces the powder spraying surface, and the driving tool (230) drives the compaction plate (250) so that the compaction plate (250) moves toward the powder spraying surface and presses against the powder spraying surface.

15. The adjustment assembly (200) further includes an adjuster; 15. The powder spraying device of claim 14, wherein the first side of the compaction plate (250) is connected to the transmission tool (240) via the adjustment tool, and the adjustment tool is for adjusting the second side of the compaction plate (250) so that it is parallel to the powder spraying surface.

16. Further comprising a feeder mechanism (400); 2. The powder sprinkling device of claim 1, wherein the feeder mechanism (400) includes a powder groove (410) and a material transport section (420), the material transport section (420) is arranged in the powder groove (410), a powder inlet faces the material transport section (420), and the material transport section (420) is arranged opposite a powder outlet (430) of the powder groove (410).

17. 17. The powder sprinkling device of claim 16, wherein the material transport portion (420) is a helical member, the helical member being rotatably disposed within the powder groove (410), and the helical member extending along the length of the powder outlet (430).

18. 18. The powder sprinkling device of claim 17, wherein the helical member includes a first stage and a second stage connected to each other, the helical directions of the first stage and the second stage are opposite to each other, and the powder inlet faces a point connecting the first stage and the second stage.

19. The helical member includes a rotating shaft, a first helical blade, and a second helical blade. The powder spraying device described in claim 17, characterized in that the first helical blade and the second helical blade are both spirally mounted on the rotating shaft and extend along the longitudinal direction of the rotating shaft, and the helical directions of the first helical blade and the second helical blade are opposite to each other.

20. Further comprising a feeder mechanism (400); 2. The powder sprinkling device of claim 1, wherein the feeder mechanism (400) has a powder outlet (430) facing the powder sprinkling surface, and the powder outlet (430) is provided with a mesh member (500).

21. The powder sprinkling device according to claim 20, characterized in that the mesh member (500) is swingably mounted on the powder outlet (430).

22. 21. The powder sprinkling device of claim 20, wherein the mesh member (500) is an arc-shaped structural member, the concave surface of the arc-shaped structural member facing the powder outlet (430).

23. Further comprising a drum screen (600) and a feeder mechanism (400), The powder sprinkling device of claim 1, characterized in that the drum screen (600) is movably mounted on the device body (100), the drum screen (600) faces a powder sprinkling surface, the feeder mechanism (400) is for supplying material into the drum screen (600), and the drum screen (600) moves to sprinkle powder material on the powder sprinkling surface.

24. The powder sprinkling device according to claim 23, characterized in that the drum screen (600) is rotatably mounted on the device body (100), and the drum screen (600) rolls to sprinkle the powder material onto a powder sprinkling surface.

25. 25. The powder sprinkling device according to claim 24, characterized in that a number of vibrating balls (610) are provided within the drum screen (600).

26. 24. The powder sprinkling device of claim 23, characterized in that the drum screen (600) is provided with a plurality of partition plates extending along its length, the partition plates dividing the drum screen (600) into a plurality of independent chambers, the feeder mechanism (400) is for feeding material into the different chambers, and the drum screen (600) oscillates to sprinkle the powder material in the corresponding chamber onto the powder sprinkling surface.

27. The powder spraying device of claim 4, characterized in that the dust collector (330) further includes a gas-solid separation section, the gas-solid separation section communicates with the first collection section (332), and the gas-solid separation section is for separating the powder material into gas and solid.

28. 11. A 3D printing installation, comprising a powder sprinkling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

29. 30. The 3D printing equipment of claim 28, comprising: a print head mechanism (700); and a gas source treatment mechanism, the print head mechanism (700) comprising a housing (710), the housing (710) having a chamber, the housing (710) being provided with an exhaust port (711) communicating with the chamber, the gas source treatment mechanism comprising: a particle separator (712), a cooling device, and an airflow equalization device (712), the airflow equalization device (712) being provided within the chamber, the particle separator (712), the cooling device (712), and the airflow equalization device (712) being sequentially connected, the particle separator (712) for filtering particulate matter in the gas, the cooling device (712) for cooling the gas, and the airflow equalization device (712) for transporting the treated gas into the chamber.

30. The 3D printing equipment of claim 29, comprising a working box (800), a printing bottom plate, and a lift mechanism (900), wherein the printing bottom plate is movably arranged in the working box (800), the lift mechanism (900) is drivingly connected to the printing bottom plate, and the lift mechanism (900) drives the printing bottom plate to move up and down in the working box (800).

31. The 3D printing equipment of claim 29, comprising a work box (800) and a lift mechanism (900), wherein the lift mechanism (900) is provided with a positioning device, wherein the positioning device is provided with a first connecting device, wherein the bottom of the work box (800) is provided with a second connecting device, and wherein the side of the positioning device facing the work box (800) is provided with a locking member, wherein when the first connecting device is connected to the second connecting device, the locking member elastically contacts the bottom of the work box (800).

32. 3D printing installation, characterized in that it comprises a powder dusting device according to any one of claims 11 to 27.

33. 30. A 3D printing system comprising the 3D printing equipment of claim 28 and at least one of a sieving equipment, a mixing equipment, a drying equipment, a hardening equipment, a powder removal equipment, and a sintering equipment.

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