3D printing method, build unit, and printing apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a 3D printing method, a molding unit, and a printing apparatus. [Solution] The present invention provides a molding unit comprising: a storage chamber in which printing material is stored in advance and which includes a molding chamber; a light-transmitting member that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or closer to the light-transmitting member, with a molding chamber formed between it and the light-transmitting member; a demolding step of moving the molding stage away from the light-transmitting member and increasing the air pressure in the storage chamber; and a curing step of moving the molding stage to the next printing position and photocuring the printing material to form a printed layer on the molding stage. The present invention achieves the transfer of printing material from the storage chamber to the molding chamber by increasing the air pressure in the storage chamber, thereby enabling a smoother transfer of the printing material and improving printing efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-Reference to Related Applications The present application claims priority based on Chinese Patent Application No. 202511073917.9 filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on July 31, 2025 (title of the invention: "Container Assembly, Printing Apparatus and Printing System"). The entire content of this Chinese patent application is incorporated herein by reference. The present application claims priority based on Chinese Patent Application No. 202511433214.2 filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on September 30, 2025, entitled "Container Assembly, Printing Apparatus, Printing System, Printing Material Capsule and Printing Material Capsule Assembly". The entire content of this Chinese patent application is incorporated herein by reference. The present application claims priority based on Chinese Patent Application No. 202512059254.1 filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on December 31, 2025, entitled "3D Printing Method, Molding Unit and Printing Apparatus". The entire content of this Chinese patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of 3D printing, and in particular to a 3D printing method, a molding unit and a printing apparatus.

Background Art

[0003] Conventional photo-curing 3D printing apparatuses often implement layer-by-layer 3D printing operations by moving a printing platform along the Z-axis direction via a motor and a lead screw. This method makes it difficult to print high-viscosity resin materials.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] A main object of embodiments of the present application is to provide a 3D printing method, a molding unit and a printing apparatus, which can alleviate the technical problem of conventional printing systems that printing of high-viscosity resin materials is difficult.

[0005] In a first embodiment, an embodiment of the present application provides a 3D printing method. The method includes the steps of: providing a printing unit comprising: a storage chamber in which a printing material is pre-stored and which includes a molding chamber; a light-transmitting member that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or closer to the light-transmitting member, with a molding chamber formed between it and the light-transmitting member; a demolding step of moving the molding stage away from the light-transmitting member and increasing the air pressure in the storage chamber; and a curing step of moving the molding stage to the next printing position and photocuring the printing material to form a printed layer on the molding stage.

[0006] In a second embodiment, the present invention provides a molding unit comprising: a storage chamber in which printing material is pre-stored and which includes a molding chamber; a light-transmitting member that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or close to the light-transmitting member, and in which a molding chamber is formed between the light-transmitting member and the molding chamber.

[0007] In a third embodiment, the present invention provides a printing apparatus comprising a molding unit according to any of the above-described embodiments. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the embodiment of the present application, a 3D printing method, a molding unit, and a printing apparatus are provided, firstly, a molding unit comprising a storage chamber, a translucent member, and a stage unit. Printing material is pre-stored in the storage chamber, the translucent member transmits light to cure the printing material, the stage unit is movable to move away from or closer to the translucent member, the stage unit comprises a molding stage, a molding chamber is formed between the molding stage and the translucent member, and the storage chamber includes the molding chamber. By moving the molding stage away from the translucent member, the printing layer is demolded, and at the same time, by increasing the air pressure in the storage chamber, the printing material in the storage chamber is pushed into the molding chamber. As the air pressure in the storage chamber increases, the volume of the molding chamber gradually increases. Light passes through the translucent member and enters the molding chamber. During the curing process, when the molding stage is moved to the next printing position, the printing material in the molding chamber is formed into a printing layer on the molding stage by the light curing method. This enables a layer-by-layer printing process. In this way, the printing material is transferred from the containment chamber to the molding chamber by increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber. This printing method is not limited by high-viscosity resin materials, allows for smoother transfer of the printing material, reduces the probability of printing failure, and improves the bonding accuracy between printing layers and the molding efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] The drawings provided herein are incorporated as part of this specification and constitute a part of this specification, illustrating embodiments conforming to this application and are used in conjunction with the specification to interpret the principles of this application. The drawings in the following description illustrate some embodiments of the invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 3D printing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of the 3D printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 3D printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] The above drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present application, which will be described in more detail later. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept of the present application in any way, but are intended to explain the concept of the present application to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] To further clarify the purpose, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be described clearly and completely below with reference to the drawings of the embodiments. It is clear that the embodiments described are only some, and not all, embodiments of this application. Typically, the components of the embodiments of this application shown in the drawings herein can be configured and designed in various different arrangements.

[0013] Accordingly, the detailed description of embodiments of the present application provided in the following drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claims of the present application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments. All other embodiments that can be obtained by a person skilled in the art without creative work based on the embodiments of the present application are all within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0014] Similar symbols and letters indicate similar items in subsequent drawings. Therefore, if an item is defined in one drawing, it is not necessary to further define or explain it in subsequent drawings.

[0015] In the description of this application, the directions or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "center," "up," "down," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inside," and "outside" are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the drawings, or are the directions or positional relationships commonly used when using the product relating to the invention. These terms are merely used to facilitate and simplify the description of this application and do not indicate or suggest that the device or component in question must have a specific direction, or must be configured and operate in a specific direction. Therefore, they should not be interpreted as limitations on this application. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used merely to indicate explanatory distinctions and should not be interpreted as indicating or suggesting relative importance.

[0016] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not require that a component be absolutely horizontal or vertical; it may be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" merely indicates that it is horizontal relative to "vertical," and does not necessarily mean that the structure is perfectly horizontal; it may be slightly tilted.

[0017] In this description, unless otherwise specified and limited, the terms “installation,” “attachment,” “connection,” and “connection” shall be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may be fixed connections, removable connections, or integral connections. They may be mechanical connections or electrical connections. They may be direct connections, indirect connections via an intermediate medium, or in a form where the interiors of the two elements are in communication. Those skilled in the art will be able to understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0018] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Where there is no contradiction between the respective embodiments, the following embodiments and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. In addition, the order of steps in each of the following method embodiments is merely an example, and is not strictly limited.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, a 3D printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present application includes a modeling unit 100. The modeling unit 100 includes a storage chamber 124 pre-storing a printing material, a light-transmissive member 111 that transmits light to cure the printing material, and a stage unit 120 movable in a direction away from or toward the light-transmissive member 111. The stage unit 120 includes a modeling stage 121. A modeling chamber 140 is formed between the modeling stage 121 and the light-transmissive member 111. The storage chamber 124 includes the modeling chamber 140.

[0020] In one embodiment, the storage chamber 124 may be a closed chamber. This facilitates changing the air pressure in the storage chamber 124.

[0021] In one embodiment, the dimensions of the modeling unit 100 are 8 mm in length × 8 mm in width × 8 mm in height or more, and 150 mm in length × 150 mm in width × 150 mm in height or less. Specifically, the length, width, and height are all 8 mm or more and 150 mm or less. This enables printing by the modeling unit 100, particularly printing of high-viscosity materials, and solves the problem that when the dimensions are large, the high-viscosity material has poor fluidity, making it difficult to spread quickly and uniformly.

[0022] In one embodiment, Figure 2 is a schematic structural diagram of the modeling unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present application. The modeling unit 100 includes an outer cylinder 110, and the outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder 110 is the storage chamber 124. The outer cylinder 110 includes the light-transmissive member 111 provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber. The stage unit 120 is airtightly and slidably connected to the outer cylinder 110.

[0023] In this embodiment, the outer cylinder chamber can be used directly as the containment chamber 124, and the translucent member 111 can be placed at one end of the outer cylinder 110 in the axial direction. The airtight and slidable connection between the stage unit 120 and the outer cylinder 110 ensures that the airtightness of the containment chamber 124 is maintained during the demolding process, enabling precise control of air pressure.

[0024] In one embodiment, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present application. The molding unit 100 includes an outer cylinder 110, and the outer cylinder 110 includes a translucent member 111 provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder 110. The stage unit 120 is provided with a pressure-receiving surface, which is the wall surface of the housing chamber and intersects, for example, perpendicular to, the direction of movement of the stage unit 120.

[0025] In one embodiment, the stage unit 120 includes an inner cylinder 123. The inner cylinder 123 is located within the outer cylinder chamber and is airtightly and slidably connected to the outer cylinder 110. The molding stage 121 is located on the side of the inner cylinder 123 facing the translucent member 111. The inner cylinder chamber of the inner cylinder 123 communicates with the molding chamber 140, and the housing chamber 124 includes the inner cylinder chamber. The pressure-receiving surface includes the wall surface in the inner cylinder chamber facing the molding stage 121.

[0026] In this embodiment, the molding unit 100 has a nested double-cylinder structure. The inner cylinder chamber houses the printing material, and the inner cylinder 123 is airtight and slidably connected to the outer cylinder 110. The inner cylinder chamber and the molding chamber 140 are in communication, allowing the printing material to flow between them, and the inner cylinder chamber acts as a material storage tank, continuously supplying material to the molding chamber 140. The rigid support of the inner cylinder 123, combined with axial precision control through airtight sliding, further improves the motion stability of the stage unit 120 and enhances printing accuracy.

[0027] The outer cylinder 110 and the inner cylinder 123 are selectively fitted together, with the shape and dimensions of the inner cylinder 123 conforming to the shape and dimensions of the outer cylinder 110, thereby achieving airtight sliding after fitting. A liquid outflow hole is provided at the bottom of the inner cylinder 123 so that the outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder 110 and the inner cylinder chamber of the inner cylinder 123 are in communication. In addition, a vent can be provided at the top of the inner cylinder 123 to avoid structural interference.

[0028] To ensure the containment chamber 124 is sealed, the inner wall of the outer cylinder 110 and the outer wall of the inner cylinder 123 are fitted together in a tight seal.

[0029] In this embodiment, the dimensions of the molding unit 100 are 12 mm in length, 12 mm in width, and 35 mm in height.

[0030] In one embodiment, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present application. The molding unit 100 further comprises a first outer cylinder 110 and a second outer cylinder 110. The first outer cylinder 110 includes a translucent member 111 provided on one side of the first outer cylinder chamber of the first outer cylinder 110. The stage unit 120 is provided inside the first outer cylinder chamber and is airtightly and slidably connected to the first outer cylinder 110. The second outer cylinder chamber of the second outer cylinder 110 communicates with the molding chamber 140, and the housing chamber 124 includes the second outer cylinder chamber.

[0031] In this embodiment, the molding unit 100 can be configured as a double outer cylinder 110 structure. Of these, the stage unit 120 is airtight and slidably connected to the first outer cylinder 110, ensuring high airtightness of the molding chamber 140 during the demolding process. The second outer cylinder chamber serves as a material storage tank and continuously supplies material to the molding chamber 140 via a connecting channel.

[0032] In one embodiment, both the outer cylinder 110 and the inner cylinder 123 are cylindrical. An opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the outer cylinder 110, and a translucent member 111 is provided on the other side. A ventilation opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the inner cylinder 123, and a molding stage 121 is provided on the other side. The inner wall of the outer cylinder 110 and the outer wall of the inner cylinder 123 are fitted together airtightly and slidably. The molding stage 121 is positioned facing the translucent member 111. In addition, a communication opening is provided on the side of the inner cylinder 123 where the molding stage 121 is located, connecting the molding chamber 140 and the inner cylinder chamber.

[0033] In other embodiments, the outer cylinder 110 may have other cylindrical shapes, such as a rectangular cylinder or other polygonal cylindrical structure.

[0034] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a molding unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present application. Taking a cylindrical, nested double-tube structure as an example, the molding unit 100 comprises an outer cylinder 110 and a stage unit 120. A translucent member 111 is provided at one end of the outer cylinder 110 along the axial direction of the outer cylinder 110. The stage unit 120 comprises a molding stage 121 positioned opposite the translucent member 111. At least a portion of the stage unit 120 is airtightly and slidably connected to the other end of the outer cylinder 110. A molding chamber 140 is formed between the stage unit 120 and the translucent member 111. The molding unit 100 has a sealed storage chamber 124, which is used to store printing material and constitutes the molding chamber 140. The molding stage 121 can be moved toward or away from the translucent member 111.

[0035] The inner cylinder 123 of the stage unit 120 can be installed inside the outer cylinder 110. The bottom of the stage unit 120 may have die cutouts every other turn for flowing the printing material in the containment chamber 124 into the molding chamber 140. The printing material may be, for example, a photocurable resin liquid. The outer circumference of the inner cylinder 123 of the stage unit 120 may have two airtight boundaries for airtight sealing. The top of the stage unit 120 may have a top cover 122 and an airtight sleeve for airtight sealing for air supply.

[0036] Selectively, the stage unit 120 is further provided with vents communicating with the containment chamber 124, and the air pressure in the containment chamber 124 can be controlled via these vents. For example, by injecting gas into the sealed containment chamber 124 to increase the air pressure in the containment chamber 124, when the air pressure in the containment chamber 124 becomes higher than the external air pressure, the stage unit 120 moves upward (i.e., moves away from the translucent member 111). Alternatively, by depressurizing the sealed containment chamber 124, when the air pressure in the containment chamber 124 becomes lower than the external air pressure, the stage unit 120 moves downward (i.e., moves closer to the translucent member). In this embodiment, the downward movement of the stage unit 120 is driven by a stopper. Of course, it is also possible to connect to a stopper 402 and have the stage unit 120 move upward by the stopper 402. The stopper 402 is driven by a drive unit 401, which operates, for example, by a motor.

[0037] In one embodiment, the vent is located above the liquid level of the printing material, and the gas pressure acts above the liquid level of the printing material, thereby pressing down on the printing material. The vent may be located at the top of the stage unit 120, or above the limiting liquid level of the stage unit 120. The limiting liquid level does not exceed the maximum liquid level of the printing material that the stage unit 120 can accommodate.

[0038] In one embodiment, Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present application. The printing apparatus further comprises a drive module 400 including a drive unit 401 and a stopper unit 402. The drive unit 401 is electrically connected to the stopper unit 402, and the stopper unit 402 is positioned, fitted, or fixedly connected to the stage unit 120.

[0039] In this embodiment, the drive module 400 can operate the stopper unit 402 via the drive unit 401 by a transmission connection between the drive unit 401 and the stopper unit 402, and by a positioning fit or fixed connection between the stopper unit 402 and the stage unit 120. The stopper unit 402 can limit the displacement of the stage unit 120, enabling precise control of the movement distance of the stage unit 120, for example, in the demolding process or curing process.

[0040] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 6, the printing apparatus further includes an air supply mechanism 300. The air supply mechanism 300 is provided with an air supply connector 302 that fits into the molding unit 100 and communicates with the housing chamber 124.

[0041] In this embodiment, the air supply mechanism 300 communicates directly with the containment chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302. This allows air to be supplied into the containment chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300, thereby changing the air pressure inside the containment chamber 124. For example, by supplying air into the containment chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300 and increasing the air pressure inside the containment chamber 124, the printing material can be allowed to flow more quickly from the containment chamber 124 to the molding chamber 140. The air supply connector 302 is airtightly fitted with the molding unit 100 to ensure reliable air supply.

[0042] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 6, the printing apparatus further includes an air supply mechanism 300 provided in the stopper section 402. The air supply mechanism 300 is provided with an air supply connector 302. The air supply connector 302 is fitted into the molding unit 100 and communicates with the housing chamber 124 when the stopper section 402 and the stage unit 120 are in a positioning and fitting state.

[0043] In this embodiment, the air supply mechanism 300 and the stopper part 402 may be integrated. When the stopper part 402 and the stage unit 120 are positioned and fitted together, the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300 communicates with the housing chamber 124 of the molding unit 100. This allows air to be supplied into the housing chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300 when the stopper part 402 and the stage unit 120 are positioned and fitted together, increasing the air pressure inside the housing chamber 124 and allowing the printing material to flow more quickly from the housing chamber 124 to the molding chamber 140.

[0044] As shown in Figure 7, this is a 3D printing method according to one embodiment of the present invention, and can be applied to the printing apparatus shown in any of Figures 1 to 6. The method includes the following steps.

[0045] Step 701: A printing unit 100 is provided, comprising a storage chamber 124 in which printing material is pre-stored and which includes a molding chamber 140; a light-transmitting member 111 that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit 120 having a molding stage 121 that is movable to be separated from or closer to the light-transmitting member 111, and in which the molding chamber 140 is formed between the light-transmitting member 111 and the molding stage.

[0046] Step 702: A demolding step in which the molding stage 121 is moved away from the translucent member 111 and the air pressure in the containment chamber 124 is increased.

[0047] Process 703: A curing process in which the build stage 121 is moved to the next printing position and the printing material is photocured to form a printed layer on the build stage 121.

[0048] The 3D printing method described above first provides a build unit 100 including a storage chamber 124 and a build chamber 140. Printing material is pre-stored in the storage chamber 124, and the stage unit 120 is movable to move away from or closer to the translucent member 111. By moving the build stage 121 away from the translucent member 111, demolding of the printed layer is achieved. At the same time, by increasing the air pressure in the storage chamber 124, the printing material in the storage chamber 124 is allowed to enter the build chamber 140 more quickly. As the build stage 121 moves away from the translucent member 111, the volume of the build chamber 140 gradually increases. Light passes through the translucent member 111 and enters the build chamber 140. In the curing process, when the build stage 121 is moved to the next printing position, a printed layer is formed on the build stage 121 using a photocuring method. This enables a layer-by-layer printing process. In this way, by increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber 124, the printing material is rapidly transferred from the containment chamber 124 to the build chamber 140. This printing method is not limited by high-viscosity resin materials, allows for smoother transfer of the printing material, and improves printing efficiency. Furthermore, it improves the bonding accuracy between printed layers and build efficiency.

[0049] In one embodiment, the containment chamber 124 may be a sealed chamber. This makes it easier to increase the air pressure inside the containment chamber 124 by supplying air into it. Selectively, even if the containment chamber 124 is not a sealed chamber, the chamber may be one in which the air supply rate is greater than the leak rate when supplying air to the containment chamber 124, so as to ensure that the air pressure inside the containment chamber 124 can be increased.

[0050] In one embodiment, increasing the atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 includes raising the atmospheric pressure inside the containment chamber 124 to a first atmosphere, which is higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure.

[0051] In this embodiment, by making the first atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure during demolding, a pressure difference is created between the containment chamber 124 and the external environment, thereby improving demolding efficiency.

[0052] In one embodiment, the atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 is raised to a first atmospheric pressure, which is higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the containment chamber 124 moves the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111.

[0053] In this embodiment, the atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 is raised to a first atmospheric pressure, which is higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure, thereby creating a directional pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 and the ambient atmospheric pressure. This pressure difference directly drives the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111. This replaces the conventional purely mechanical drive mode. Selectively, in the demolding process, the uniform thrust generated by the pressure difference and the stopper control of the drive module 400 work together to precisely control the displacement of the molding stage 121 and ensure smooth demolding.

[0054] In one embodiment, after demolding is complete, the method further includes reducing the atmospheric pressure in the containment chamber 124 to a second atmosphere. The second atmosphere is less than the first atmosphere and greater than or equal to the ambient atmospheric pressure.

[0055] In this embodiment, the containment chamber 124 is precisely depressurized after demolding, and the pressure inside the containment chamber 124 after depressurization is lower than the pressure at the time of demolding, thereby preventing the containment chamber 124 from remaining under high pressure. Next, the second pressure inside the containment chamber 124 after depressurization is maintained at or above the ambient pressure, and the second pressure may be equal to the ambient pressure, or it may be any other pressure value higher than the ambient pressure. This prevents deformation of the translucent member 111 if it is a flexible member, avoids detachment, and improves the reliability of printing.

[0056] Selectively, a stable pressure reduction may be achieved by cooperating with the air supply mechanism 300, or by providing a pressure reducing valve in the containment chamber 124.

[0057] In one embodiment, the demolding step includes moving the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111 by a predetermined distance.

[0058] In this process, the translucent member 111 includes a release film. Before demolding, the printed layer formed on the molding stage 121 may be in close contact with the release film of the translucent member 111. Demolding refers to the process of separating the printed layer from the release film. By moving the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111 by a predetermined distance, the printed layer on the molding stage 121 is separated from the release film, completing the demolding process. By setting a predetermined distance, the amount of displacement of the stage unit 120 during the demolding process is precisely limited, enabling smooth separation of the printed layer from the release film.

[0059] Selectively, whether demolding is complete may be determined by detecting whether the distance from the light-transmitting member 111 to the molding stage 121 has reached a predetermined distance, or by detecting whether the printed layer and the release film have separated in another manner.

[0060] In one embodiment, the drive method for the molding stage 121 includes one or more of the following: pneumatic drive, mechanical drive, or a combination of pneumatic and mechanical drive. Multiple drive methods can be flexibly selected according to actual requirements.

[0061] In one embodiment, the method further includes providing a drive module 400 including a drive unit 401 and a stopper unit 402. The drive unit 401 is drive-connected to the stopper unit 402, and the stopper unit 402 is position-fitted or fixedly connected to the stage unit 120.

[0062] In this embodiment, the drive module 400 can move the stopper unit 402 via the drive unit 401 through a transmission connection between the drive unit 401 and the stopper unit 402, and a positioning fit or fixed connection between the stopper unit 402 and the stage unit 120. The stopper unit 402 can limit the amount of displacement of the stage unit 120, and for example, the distance traveled by the stage unit 120 can be precisely controlled in the demolding process or the curing process.

[0063] In one embodiment, the method further includes providing an air supply mechanism 300. The air supply mechanism 300 is provided with an air supply connector 302. The air supply connector 302 is fitted into the molding unit 100 and communicates with the housing chamber 124.

[0064] In this embodiment, the air supply mechanism 300 communicates directly with the housing chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302, and the air pressure inside the housing chamber 124 can be changed by supplying air into the housing chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300. For example, by supplying air into the housing chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300 and increasing the air pressure inside the housing chamber 124, the printing material is pushed from the housing chamber 124 to the molding chamber 140 by the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of the housing chamber 124. The air supply connector 302 is airtightly fitted with the molding unit 100 to avoid air pressure fluctuations caused by bypass air supply.

[0065] In one embodiment, the method further includes providing an air supply mechanism 300. The air supply mechanism 300 is provided in the stopper portion 402. The air supply mechanism 300 is provided with an air supply connector 302. The air supply connector 302 is fitted into the molding unit 100 and communicates with the housing chamber 124 when the stopper portion 402 and the stage unit 120 are in a positioning and fitting state.

[0066] In this embodiment, the air supply mechanism 300 and the stopper part 402 may be integrated. When the stopper part 402 and the stage unit 120 are positioned and fitted together, the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300 communicates with the housing chamber 124 of the molding unit 100. As a result, when the stopper part 402 and the stage unit 120 are positioned and fitted together, air is supplied into the housing chamber 124 via the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300, increasing the air pressure inside the housing chamber 124, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the housing chamber 124 pushes the printing material from the housing chamber 124 into the molding chamber 140.

[0067] Taking a resin liquid as an example of a printing material, in the printing process, the resin liquid can be molded and cured on the molding stage 121. The translucent member 111 is attached to the bottom of the outer cylinder 110 and can be secured by a thin film cover 130. The air intake of the attached molding unit 100 is aligned with the air supply connector 302 of the air supply mechanism 300. The inside of the containment chamber 124 is filled with a photocurable resin necessary for printing.

[0068] By controlling the air supply mechanism 300 of the printing device and supplying gas into the containment chamber 124 of the molding unit 100, the containment chamber 124 and the molding chamber 140 are in communication. Therefore, the high pressure created by the gas filling by the air supply mechanism 300 causes the printing material to flow more quickly from the containment chamber 124 to the molding chamber 140. In other words, the printing material flows more quickly from the containment chamber 124 to the molding chamber 140 due to the pressure effect caused by the gas supply.

[0069] By selectively controlling the air supply process of the air supply mechanism 300 based on preset air supply pressure parameters and precisely adjusting the magnitude of the gas pressure, the flow velocity of the printing material flowing from the containment chamber 124 to the build chamber 140 can be increased. The pressure difference between the inside and outside of the containment chamber 124 generates a driving force on the stage unit 120 in the direction away from the translucent member 111, pushing the stage unit 120 upward and consequently moving it away from the translucent member 111. This increases the speed at which the printing material in the containment chamber 124 flows into the build chamber 140, and also controls the movement of the stage unit 120 away from the translucent member 111. In other words, moving the build stage 121 away from the translucent member 111 can be achieved by increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber 124, that is, demolding can be achieved by increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber 124. It is sufficient to ensure that the pneumatic driving force acting on the stage unit 120 is greater than or equal to the minimum force required to move the stage unit 120 away from the translucent member 111; this is the pneumatic drive described above. In this embodiment, the movement position of the stage unit 120 is controlled by the stopper portion 402. For example, when the stopper portion 402 moves to a target position / target distance away from the translucent member and stops, the stage unit 120 moves away from the translucent member 111, and when it reaches the position where the stopper portion 402 is located, it is locked by the stopper portion 402 and stops moving. As a result, the stage unit 120 can move to the target position / achieve movement of the target distance. Furthermore, the stopper portion 402 and the stage unit 120 can move synchronously while maintaining a positioning and fitting state.

[0070] The pressure lower limit can be selectively set to 0 and the pressure upper limit to 50 kPa. The gradual pressure increase curve, which gradually increases the pressure value during air supply, can be linear or nonlinear, and can be specifically selected according to the actual requirements.

[0071] The demolding process includes moving the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111 to separate the printed layer from the translucent member 111. Simultaneously, air is supplied to the containment chamber 124 during demolding, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the containment chamber 124 creates opposing forces on the printed layer and the translucent member 111, accelerating the separation of the printed layer from the translucent member 111. During demolding, the high pressure inside the containment chamber 124 causes the printing material to flow more quickly between the printed layer and the translucent member 111. This further accelerates demolding and the recirculation and replenishment of the printing material, improving printing efficiency. The control of moving the molding stage 121 away from the translucent member 111 can be implemented by either the pneumatic drive method or the mechanical drive method described above. Specifically, the stage unit 120 is fixedly connected to the stopper part 402, and the stage unit 120 is moved away from the translucent member 111 by moving the stopper part 402 away from the molding unit 100, and the stage unit 120 is moved closer to the translucent member 111 by moving the stopper part 402 toward the molding unit 100. Of course, a combination of the above-mentioned pneumatic drive and mechanical drive may also be used. In this case, it is sufficient to ensure that the sum of the driving force due to the pneumatic pressure acting on the stage unit 120 and the mechanical driving force that the stopper part 402 acts on the molding unit 100 is greater than or equal to the minimum force required to move the stage unit 120 away from the translucent member 111.

[0072] Details of each step of the above method can be found in the relevant descriptions of the embodiments mentioned above and will not be repeated here.

[0073] As shown in Figure 8, this is a 3D printing apparatus 800 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and this apparatus is applicable to the printing apparatus shown in any of Figures 1 to 6. The apparatus comprises a molding module 801, a release module 802, and a curing module 803. The functional principle of each module is as follows.

[0074] The molding module 801 includes a storage chamber in which printing material is stored in advance and which includes a molding chamber; a light-transmitting member that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or closer to the light-transmitting member, and in which a molding chamber is formed between the light-transmitting member and the stage unit.

[0075] The release module 802 is used for demolding. Specifically, it moves the build stage away from the translucent material and increases the air pressure in the containment chamber.

[0076] The curing module 803 is used for curing. Specifically, it moves the build stage to the next printing position and uses light curing to form a printed layer on the build stage.

[0077] In one embodiment, the containment chamber is a sealed chamber.

[0078] In one embodiment, the molding unit comprises an outer cylinder, the outer cylinder chamber of which is a housing chamber. The outer cylinder includes a translucent member provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber. The stage unit is airtightly and slidably connected to the outer cylinder.

[0079] In one embodiment, the molding unit comprises an outer cylinder. The outer cylinder includes a translucent member provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber. The stage unit comprises an inner cylinder. The inner cylinder is provided within the outer cylinder chamber and is airtightly and slidably connected to the outer cylinder. The molding stage is provided on the side of the inner cylinder facing the translucent member. The inner cylinder chamber of the inner cylinder communicates with the molding chamber. The housing chamber includes the inner cylinder chamber.

[0080] In one embodiment, the molding unit further comprises a first outer cylinder and a second outer cylinder. The first outer cylinder includes a translucent member provided on one side of the first outer cylinder chamber. The stage unit is provided within the first outer cylinder chamber and is airtightly and slidably connected to the first outer cylinder. The second outer cylinder chamber of the second outer cylinder communicates with the molding chamber. The housing chamber includes the second outer cylinder chamber.

[0081] In one embodiment, the release module 802 is specifically used to raise the pressure in the containment chamber to a first atmosphere, which is higher than the ambient pressure.

[0082] In one embodiment, the release module 802 is specifically used to raise the air pressure in the containment chamber to a first atmosphere higher than the ambient air pressure, and to move the molding stage away from the translucent material by the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of the containment chamber.

[0083] In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a depressurization module for reducing the air pressure inside the containment chamber to a second atmosphere, which is lower than the first atmosphere but higher than the ambient air pressure, after demolding is complete.

[0084] In one embodiment, the release module 802 is used to move the molding stage a predetermined distance away from the translucent member.

[0085] In one embodiment, the drive method for the molding stage includes one or more of the following: pneumatic drive, mechanical drive, and a combination of pneumatic and mechanical drive.

[0086] In one embodiment, both the outer and inner cylinders are cylindrical. An opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the outer cylinder, and a translucent member is provided on the other side. A ventilation opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the inner cylinder, and a molding stage is provided on the other side. The inner wall of the outer cylinder and the outer wall of the inner cylinder are fitted together airtightly and slidably. The molding stage is positioned facing the translucent member. A communication opening is provided on the side of the inner cylinder where the molding stage is located, connecting the molding chamber and the inner cylinder chamber.

[0087] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a drive unit for providing a drive module including a drive unit and a stopper unit. The drive unit is ductilely connected to the stopper unit. The stopper unit is positionally fitted or fixedly connected to the stage unit.

[0088] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a first air supply module for providing an air supply mechanism. The air supply mechanism is provided with an air supply connector. The air supply connector is fitted into the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber.

[0089] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a second air supply module for providing an air supply mechanism. The air supply mechanism is provided in the stopper section. The air supply mechanism is provided with an air supply connector. The air supply connector is fitted into the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber when the stopper section and the stage unit are in a positional and fitted state.

[0090] For a detailed description of the 3D printing apparatus 800 described above, please refer to the description of the relevant method processes in the above embodiment. Since the implementation principle and technical effects are similar, redundant explanations are omitted in this embodiment.

[0091] In some embodiments disclosed herein, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the embodiments of the apparatus described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of modules is merely a logical functional division, and other divisional configurations may be adopted in actual implementations. For example, multiple modules can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be omitted or not implemented.

[0092] The above-described integrated module, implemented in the form of a software function module, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The above-described software function module, stored in the storage medium, includes a plurality of instructions for causing a computer device (such as a personal computer, server, or network device) or processor to perform some of the steps of the methods according to each embodiment of the present application.

[0093] It should be understood that the above-mentioned processor may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processor, Digital Signal Processor (DSP), Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any general-purpose processor, etc. The steps of the method disclosed herein may be performed and completed directly by a hardware processor, or by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor. The memory may include high-speed RAM (Random Access Memory), or it may be nonvolatile memory (NVM), such as at least one disk storage device, which may be a USB memory, portable hard disk, read-only memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk, etc.

[0094] An exemplary storage medium is connected to a processor, and the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium may also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium may be located within an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). Of course, the processor and storage medium may exist as separate components within an electronic device or master control device.

[0095] In this specification, the terms “includes,” “equipped with,” or any other variation thereof mean non-exclusive inclusion. Thus, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a set of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly stated, or elements specific to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless further limited, an element limited by the phrase “equipped with one…” does not preclude the existence of other identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0096] The numbers in the above-mentioned embodiments of this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not indicate any superiority or inferiority among the embodiments.

[0097] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will clearly understand that the methods according to each of the above embodiments can be implemented by a combination of software and a necessary general-purpose hardware platform. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but it will be clear that in many cases the former configuration is more preferable. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the present application can be embodied in the form of a software product, either essentially or in part with respect to the prior art. The computer software product is stored on a storage medium (ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc.) and includes a plurality of instructions for causing a terminal device (mobile phone, computer, server, air conditioner, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods according to each embodiment of the present application.

[0098] In the technical solution of this application, the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, and disclosure of relevant user data and other information all comply with the provisions of relevant laws and regulations and do not violate public order and morals.

[0099] The foregoing are merely preferred embodiments of the present application and do not limit the scope of the patent. Equivalent structural or process modifications, or direct or indirect applications to other related technical fields, made using the contents of the specification and drawings of the present application shall all similarly fall within the scope of the patent protection of the present application. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 100: Modeling Unit 110: Outer cylinder 111: Translucent material 120: Stage Unit 121: Modeling Stage 122: Cap 123: Inner cylinder 124: Confinement Room 130: Thin film cover 140: Modeling room 300: Air supply mechanism 301: Air pump 302: Air supply connector 400: Drive Module 401: Drive unit 402: Stopper section

Claims

1. 3D printing method, A step to provide a molding unit comprising: a storage chamber in which printing material is stored in advance and which includes a molding chamber; a light-transmitting member that transmits light to cure the printing material; and a stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or close to the light-transmitting member, and in which a molding chamber is formed between the light-transmitting member and the stage unit; A demolding step is performed in which the molding stage is moved away from the translucent member and the air pressure in the containment chamber is increased. A curing step involves moving the molding stage to the next printing position and curing the printing material with light to form a printed layer on the molding stage. A method characterized by including the following.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the containment chamber is an airtight chamber.

3. The molding unit comprises an outer cylinder, The outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder is the housing chamber, The outer cylinder comprises the light-transmitting member provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber, The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the stage unit is connected to the outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner.

4. The molding unit comprises an outer cylinder, The outer cylinder is provided with a light-transmitting member on one side of the outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder, The stage unit comprises an inner cylinder provided within the outer cylinder chamber and connected to the outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner, The molding stage is provided on the side of the inner cylinder facing the translucent member, The inner cylinder chamber of the inner cylinder is in communication with the molding chamber. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the containment chamber includes the inner cylinder chamber.

5. The molding unit further comprises a first outer cylinder and a second outer cylinder, The first outer cylinder is provided with a light-transmitting member on one side of the first outer cylinder chamber of the first outer cylinder, The stage unit is provided inside the first outer cylinder chamber and is connected to the first outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner. The second outer cylinder chamber of the second outer cylinder is in communication with the molding chamber. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the containment chamber includes the second outer cylinder chamber.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the step of increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber includes a step of increasing the air pressure in the containment chamber to a first atmosphere that is higher than the ambient air pressure.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that the air pressure in the containment chamber is raised to a first atmosphere higher than the ambient air pressure, and the molding stage is moved away from the translucent member by the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of the containment chamber.

8. After the completion of the aforementioned demolding process, The process includes reducing the air pressure inside the containment chamber to a second atmosphere, The method according to claim 6, characterized in that the second atmosphere is less than the first atmosphere and greater than or equal to the ambient pressure.

9. The aforementioned mold release step is, The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes moving the molding stage a predetermined distance away from the translucent member.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive method for the molding stage includes one or more of the following: pneumatic drive, mechanical drive, and a combination of pneumatic and mechanical drive.

11. Both the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder are cylindrical. An opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the outer cylinder, and the light-transmitting member is provided on the other side. A ventilation opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the inner cylinder, and the molding stage is provided on the other side. The inner wall of the outer cylinder and the outer wall of the inner cylinder are fitted together in an airtight and slidable manner. The molding stage is provided facing the translucent member, The method according to claim 4, characterized in that a communication port is provided on the side of the inner cylinder where the molding stage is located, which connects the molding chamber and the inner cylinder chamber.

12. The process further includes providing a drive module that includes a drive unit and a stopper unit, The drive unit is electrically connected to the stopper unit. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the stopper portion is positioned, fitted, or fixedly connected to the stage unit.

13. The method according to claim 2, further comprising the step of providing an air supply mechanism equipped with an air supply connector that fits into the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber.

14. The process further includes providing an air supply mechanism provided in the stopper portion and equipped with an air supply connector, The method according to claim 12, characterized in that the air supply connector is fitted to the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber when the stopper portion and the stage unit are in a positioning and fitting state.

15. It is a molding unit, A storage room in which printing materials are stored in advance, and which includes a molding room, A light-transmitting member that allows light to pass through and hardens the printing material, A stage unit having a molding stage that is movable to be separated from or close to a translucent member, and in which a molding chamber is formed between the translucent member and the molding stage, A molding unit characterized by comprising the following features.

16. The molding unit according to claim 15, characterized in that the aforementioned storage chamber is an airtight chamber.

17. The molding unit comprises an outer cylinder, The outer cylinder chamber of the outer cylinder is the housing chamber, The outer cylinder comprises the light-transmitting member provided on one side of the outer cylinder chamber, The molding unit according to claim 16, characterized in that the stage unit is connected to the outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner.

18. The molding unit comprises an outer cylinder, The outer cylinder is provided with a light-transmitting member on one side of its outer cylinder chamber, The stage unit comprises an inner cylinder provided within the outer cylinder chamber and connected to the outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner, The molding stage is provided on the side of the inner cylinder facing the translucent member, The inner cylinder chamber of the inner cylinder is in communication with the molding chamber. The molding unit according to claim 16, characterized in that the housing chamber includes the inner cylindrical chamber.

19. The molding unit further comprises a first outer cylinder and a second outer cylinder, The first outer cylinder is provided with a light-transmitting member on one side of the first outer cylinder chamber, The stage unit is provided inside the first outer cylinder chamber and is connected to the first outer cylinder in an airtight and slidable manner. The second outer cylinder chamber of the second outer cylinder is in communication with the molding chamber. The molding unit according to claim 16, characterized in that the housing chamber includes the second outer cylinder chamber.

20. The molding unit according to claim 15, characterized in that the drive method for the molding stage includes one or more of the following: pneumatic drive, mechanical drive, and a combination of pneumatic and mechanical drive.

21. Both the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder are cylindrical. An opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the outer cylinder, and the light-transmitting member is provided on the other side. A ventilation opening is provided on one of the axial sides of the inner cylinder, and the molding stage is provided on the other side. The inner wall of the outer cylinder and the outer wall of the inner cylinder are fitted together in an airtight and slidable manner. The molding stage is provided facing the translucent member, The molding unit according to claim 18, characterized in that a communication port is provided on the side of the inner cylinder where the molding stage is located, which connects the molding chamber and the inner cylinder chamber.

22. The molding unit according to claim 15, characterized in that the dimensions of the molding unit are such that the length, width, and height are each 8 mm or more and 150 mm or less.

23. A 3D printing device, An apparatus characterized by comprising a molding unit according to any one of claims 15 to 22.

24. The drive module further includes a drive unit and a stopper unit, The drive unit is ductilely connected to the stopper unit, The apparatus according to claim 23, characterized in that the stopper portion is positioned, fitted, or fixedly connected to the stage unit.

25. The apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising an air supply mechanism equipped with an air supply connector that fits into the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber.

26. The stopper portion is provided with an air supply mechanism that includes an air supply connector, The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that the air supply connector is fitted into the molding unit and communicates with the housing chamber when the stopper portion and the stage unit are in a positioning and fitting state.

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