Three-dimensional modeling device and method for manufacturing three-dimensional object

Abstract

To provide a three-dimensional molding apparatus capable of improving discharge responsiveness of a first nozzle.SOLUTION: A three-dimensional molding apparatus comprises: a plasticizing unit; a stage; a discharge unit having a first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating to the plasticizing unit; a first discharge adjusting unit; a second discharge adjusting unit; a moving unit for relatively moving the discharge unit to the stage; and a control unit. The control unit controls the first discharge adjusting unit and the second discharge adjusting unit to execute a switching processing for switching from a first state in which discharging of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped, and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle, to a second state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and a discharge quantity reducing processing for controlling the screw or the second discharge adjusting unit before switching from the first state to the second state to reduce a discharge quantity of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a three-dimensional modeling apparatus and a method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Three-dimensional modeling apparatuses are known that manufacture three-dimensional objects by discharging and layering a plasticized material and curing it.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method of creating a three-dimensional object by extruding a thermoplastic material that has been heated and melted in a preheater from an extrusion nozzle that scans according to preset shape data onto a specific area on a base, and then layering further molten material on top of the hardened material on the base.

[0004] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses a head for three-dimensional modeling that plasticizes a material and ejects the plasticized material from a plurality of nozzles. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-192710 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2016 / 185626 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] When plasticizing the material and modeling in one stroke as in Patent Document 1, the modeling time is long. In contrast, in Patent Document 2, multiple nozzles are arranged in a line, so that objects are modeled in multiple locations with one scan, thereby shortening the modeling time. Such multiple nozzles are connected to each other by a common flow path, and the discharge of each nozzle is controlled according to the shape of the object.

[0007] However, when ejection from a first nozzle among the plurality of nozzles is started after ejection from the first nozzle has been stopped, the ejection responsiveness of the first nozzle may deteriorate. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the present invention is to a plasticizing section having a screw and rotating the screw to plasticize the material and generate a plasticized material; a stage having a deposition surface onto which the plasticized material is deposited; a discharge section that discharges the plasticizing material toward the deposition surface and has a first nozzle and a second nozzle that communicate with the plasticizing section; A first discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle; A second discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle; a moving unit that moves the discharge unit relative to the stage along a first axis that is parallel to the deposition surface; A control unit that controls the plasticizing unit, the first discharge adjustment unit, and the second discharge adjustment unit; Including, The control unit is a switching process of controlling the first discharge adjustment unit and the second discharge adjustment unit to switch from a first state in which the discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle to a second state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a discharge rate reduction process for reducing a discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle by controlling the screw or the second discharge adjustment unit before switching from the first state to the second state; Do the following.

[0009] One aspect of the method for producing a three-dimensional object according to the present invention includes: A method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising the steps of: plasticizing a material by rotating a screw to generate a plasticized material in a plasticizing section; discharging the plasticized material from a first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating with the plasticizing section toward a stage while moving the first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating with the plasticizing section relative to a stage, thereby forming a three-dimensional object, A process of controlling a first discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle and a second discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle, to switch from a first state in which the discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle to a second state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle; Before switching from the first state to the second state, the screw or the second discharge adjustment unit is controlled to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle; Includes. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a flat screw of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a barrel of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom view illustrating a discharge unit of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a discharge unit of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a flow path of a discharge unit of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 4A to 4C are diagrams illustrating the movement of a first rod pin of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 4A to 4C are diagrams illustrating the movement of a first rod pin of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 5 is a flowchart for explaining a process of a control unit of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 4A to 4C are cross-sectional views for explaining a processing layer forming process of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 6 is a flowchart for explaining a modeling layer formation process by a control unit of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a modeling layer formation process by a control unit of a three-dimensional modeling device according to a first modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a modeling layer formation process by a control unit of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to a second modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below do not unduly limit the contents of the present invention described in the claims. In addition, not all of the configurations described below are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0012] 1. Three-dimensional printing equipment 1.1. Overall structure First, a three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view that shows a three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. In Fig. 1, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis are shown as three mutually orthogonal axes. The X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are, for example, horizontal directions. The Z-axis direction is, for example, vertical directions.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 includes a modeling unit 10, a stage 20, a moving unit 30, and a control unit 40.

[0014] The three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 drives the moving unit 30 to change the relative positions of the discharging unit 160 and the stage 20 while discharging the plasticized material from the discharging unit 160 of the modeling unit 10 onto the stage 20. In this way, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 models a three-dimensional object of a desired shape on the stage 20. The detailed configuration of the modeling unit 10 will be described later.

[0015] The stage 20 is moved by the moving unit 30. The plasticized material discharged from the discharge unit 160 is deposited on the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20, forming a three-dimensional object. The plasticized material may be directly deposited on the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20, or a sample plate may be placed on the stage 20 and the three-dimensional object may be formed on the sample plate. In this case, the object material is deposited on the stage 20 via the sample plate.

[0016] The moving unit 30 moves the discharge unit 160 of the modeling unit 10 relative to the stage 20 along the X-axis parallel to the deposition surface 22. In the illustrated example, the moving unit 30 moves the stage 20 relative to the modeling unit 10. The moving unit 30 is configured by, for example, a three-axis positioner that moves the stage 20 in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction by the driving forces of three motors 32. The motors 32 are controlled by the control unit 40.

[0017] Note that the moving unit 30 may be configured to move the modeling unit 10 without moving the stage 20. Alternatively, the moving unit 30 may be configured to move both the modeling unit 10 and the stage 20.

[0018] The control unit 40 is configured, for example, by a computer having a processor, a main storage device, and an input / output interface that inputs and outputs signals from and to the outside. The control unit 40 performs various functions, for example, by the processor executing a program loaded into the main storage device. The control unit 40 controls the modeling unit 10 and the moving unit 30. Specific processing of the control unit 40 will be described later. Note that the control unit 40 may be configured by a combination of multiple circuits instead of a computer.

[0019] 1.2. Modeling unit As shown in FIG. 1, the modeling unit 10 includes, for example, a material input unit 110, a plasticizing unit 120, and a discharging unit 160.

[0020] Pellet- or powder-like materials are fed into the material feed section 110. Examples of materials fed into the material feed section 110 include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resin.

[0021] The material input section 110 is configured by, for example, a hopper. The material input section 110 and the plasticizing section 120 are connected by a supply path 112 provided below the material input section 110. The material input into the material input section 110 is supplied to the plasticizing section 120 via the supply path 112.

[0022] The plasticizing unit 120 has, for example, a screw case 122, a drive motor 124, a flat screw 130, a barrel 140, and a heating unit 150. The plasticizing unit 120 plasticizes the solid-state material supplied from the material supply unit 110 by rotating the flat screw 130, generates a paste-like plasticized material having fluidity, and supplies it to the discharge unit 160.

[0023] Plasticization is a concept that includes melting, and refers to changing a material from a solid to a fluid state. Specifically, for materials that undergo glass transition, plasticization refers to raising the temperature of the material above the glass transition point. For materials that do not undergo glass transition, plasticization refers to raising the temperature of the material above the melting point.

[0024] The screw case 122 is a housing that houses the flat screw 130. A barrel 140 is provided on the lower surface of the screw case 122. The flat screw 130 is housed in a space surrounded by the screw case 122 and the barrel 140.

[0025] The driving motor 124 is provided on the upper surface of the screw case 122. The driving motor 124 is, for example, a servo motor. A shaft 126 of the driving motor 124 is connected to an upper surface 131 of the flat screw 130. The driving motor 124 is controlled by the control unit 40. Note that the shaft 126 of the driving motor 124 and the upper surface 131 of the flat screw 130 may be connected via a reducer.

[0026] The flat screw 130 has a generally cylindrical shape whose size in the direction of the rotation axis RA is smaller than the size in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis RA. In the illustrated example, the rotation axis RA is parallel to the Z axis. The torque generated by the drive motor 124 causes the flat screw 130 to rotate about the rotation axis RA. The flat screw 130 has an upper surface 131, a groove-forming surface 132 opposite to the upper surface 131, and a side surface 133 connecting the upper surface 131 and the groove-forming surface 132. A first groove 134 is provided in the groove-forming surface 132. Here, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the flat screw 130 in a schematic manner. For convenience, FIG. 2 shows a state in which the vertical positional relationship is reversed from the state shown in FIG. 1. Also, FIG. 1 shows the flat screw 130 in a simplified form.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 2, the first groove 134 is provided on the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. The first groove 134 has, for example, a central portion 135, a connecting portion 136, and a material introduction portion 137. The central portion 135 faces a communication hole 146 provided in the barrel 140. The central portion 135 communicates with the communication hole 146. The connecting portion 136 connects the central portion 135 and the material introduction portion 137. In the illustrated example, the connecting portion 136 is provided in a spiral shape from the central portion 135 toward the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. The material introduction portion 137 is provided on the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. That is, the material introduction portion 137 is provided on the side surface 133 of the flat screw 130. The material supplied from the material input section 110 is introduced from the material introduction section 137 into the first groove 134, and is transported through the connection section 136 and the central section 135 to the communication hole 146 provided in the barrel 140. The number of the first grooves 134 is not particularly limited, and may be three or more, or may be only one.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 1, the barrel 140 is provided below the flat screw 130. The barrel 140 has an opposing surface 142 that faces the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. A communication hole 146 that communicates with the first groove 134 is provided at the center of the opposing surface 142. Here, Fig. 3 is a plan view that shows the barrel 140 in a schematic manner. For convenience, the barrel 140 is shown in a simplified form in Fig. 1.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the opposing surface 142 of the barrel 140 is provided with a second groove 144 and a communication hole 146. A plurality of second grooves 144 are provided. In the illustrated example, six second grooves 144 are provided, but the number is not particularly limited. The plurality of second grooves 144 are provided around the communication hole 146 when viewed from the Z-axis direction. One end of the second groove 144 is connected to the communication hole 146, and the second groove 144 extends in a spiral shape from the communication hole 146 toward the outer periphery 148 of the barrel 140. The second groove 144 has a function of guiding the plasticized material to the communication hole 146.

[0030] The shape of the second groove 144 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, linear. One end of the second groove 144 does not have to be connected to the communication hole 146. Furthermore, the second groove 144 does not have to be provided on the opposing surface 142. However, in consideration of efficiently guiding the plasticized material to the communication hole 146, it is preferable that the second groove 144 is provided on the opposing surface 142.

[0031] The heating unit 150 is provided in the barrel 140 as shown in FIG. 1. The heating unit 150 heats the material supplied between the flat screw 130 and the barrel 140. The heating unit 150 is, for example, a heater. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the heating unit 150 may have a ring-like shape. The heating unit 150 is controlled by the control unit 40.

[0032] 1.3. Discharge part 1, the discharge unit 160 is provided below the barrel 140. The discharge unit 160 discharges the supplied plasticized material toward the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20.

[0033] Here, Fig. 4 is a bottom view showing the discharge part 160. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in Fig. 4 showing the discharge part 160. Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the flow path of the discharge part 160. For convenience, Figs. 1 and 6 show the discharge part 160 in a simplified form. Also, in Fig. 6, the flow of the plasticizing material is shown by arrows.

[0034] 4 to 6, the discharge unit 160 has, for example, a first nozzle 162, a second nozzle 164, a third nozzle 166, and a fourth nozzle 168. The nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 discharge the plasticizing material toward the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20.

[0035] The discharge section 160 has a flow path substrate 170. The nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 are provided on the flow path substrate 170. As shown in FIG. 6, the first nozzle 162 has a first flow path 171. The second nozzle 164 has a second flow path 172. The third nozzle 166 has a third flow path 173. The fourth nozzle 168 has a fourth flow path 174. As shown in FIG. 5, the flow paths 171, 172, 173, and 174 have a portion whose width gradually increases toward the -Z axis direction.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6, the discharge section 160 has a common flow path 175, a first branch flow path 176, a second branch flow path 177, and a third branch flow path 178. The flow paths 171 and 172 communicate with the second branch flow path 177. The flow paths 173 and 174 communicate with the third branch flow path 178. The nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 communicate with the plasticizing section 120. Specifically, the flow paths 171, 172, 173, and 174 of the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 communicate with the communication hole 146 provided in the barrel 140 of the plasticizing section 120 via the flow paths 175, 176, 177, and 178. The flow paths 171 to 178 are provided in the flow path substrate 170.

[0037] The plasticized material produced in the plasticizing section 120 reaches the common flow path 175 through the communication hole 146 and is branched at the first branch flow path 176. The plasticized material branched at the first branch flow path 176 is further branched at the second branch flow path 177, passes through the first flow path 171 and the second flow path 172, and is discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164. The plasticized material branched at the first branch flow path 176 is further branched at the third branch flow path 178, passes through the third flow path 173 and the fourth flow path 174, and is discharged from the third nozzle 166 and the fourth nozzle 168.

[0038] 4, the first nozzle 162 has a first nozzle opening 163. The second nozzle 164 has a second nozzle opening 165. The third nozzle 166 has a third nozzle opening 167. The fourth nozzle 168 has a fourth nozzle opening 169. The nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 eject the plasticized material from the nozzle openings 163, 165, 167, and 169, respectively. The nozzle openings 163, 165, 167, and 169 have, for example, a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0039] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 are aligned in the direction of a first imaginary axis B1 intersecting with the X-axis. The third nozzle 166 and the fourth nozzle 168 are aligned in the direction of a second imaginary axis B2 intersecting with the X-axis. The first nozzle 162 and the third nozzle 166 are aligned in the direction of the Y-axis. The second nozzle 164 and the fourth nozzle 168 are aligned in the direction of the Y-axis. In the example shown in the figure, the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 are provided in a staggered arrangement. The number of nozzles provided in the flow path substrate 170 is not particularly limited as long as it is plural.

[0040] 1.4. Discharge adjustment section The modeling unit 10 has, for example, a first discharge adjustment section 180, a second discharge adjustment section 182, a third discharge adjustment section 184, and a fourth discharge adjustment section 186.

[0041] The first discharge adjustment unit 180 adjusts the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the first nozzle 162. The second discharge adjustment unit 182 adjusts the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the second nozzle 164. The third discharge adjustment unit 184 adjusts the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the third nozzle 166. The fourth discharge adjustment unit 186 adjusts the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the fourth nozzle 168.

[0042] The first discharge adjustment section 180 has a first rod pin 190 and a first drive mechanism 191. The second discharge adjustment section 182 has a second rod pin 192 and a second drive mechanism 193. The third discharge adjustment section 184 has a third rod pin 194 and a third drive mechanism 195. The fourth discharge adjustment section 186 has a fourth rod pin 196 and a fourth drive mechanism 197. Here, Figs. 7 and 8 are diagrams for explaining the movement of the first rod pin 190.

[0043] The rod pins 190, 192, 194, and 196 move in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plasticized material flows. In the illustrated example, the direction in which the plasticized material flows is the Z-axis direction, and the rod pins 190, 192, 194, and 196 move in the X-axis direction.

[0044] The driving mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197 move the rod pins 190, 192, 194, and 196 in the X-axis direction, respectively. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first driving mechanism 191 moves the first rod pin 190 in the direction of the arrow, for example, in the +X-axis direction. As a result, the first flow path 171 of the first nozzle 162 is blocked, and the plasticized material is not discharged from the first nozzle 162. From the state shown in FIG. 7, as shown in FIG. 8, the first driving mechanism 191 moves the first rod pin 190 in the direction of the arrow, for example, in the -X-axis direction. As a result, the first flow path 171 is opened, and the plasticized material is discharged from the first nozzle 162. The driving mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197 can adjust the flow speed of the plasticizing material in the flow paths 171, 172, 173, and 174 by moving the rod pins 190, 192, 194, and 196, respectively, in the X-axis direction.

[0045] The driving mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197 are, for example, pneumatic driving mechanisms that use compressed air supplied from a compressor to move the components 190, 192, 194, and 196. The driving mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197 may be solenoid driving mechanisms that use electromagnetic force generated by a solenoid, or may be electric driving mechanisms that use rotational force generated by a motor. However, in consideration of miniaturization, it is preferable that the driving mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197 are pneumatic driving mechanisms.

[0046] 1.5. Control Section The control unit 40 controls the plasticizing unit 120 and the discharge adjustment units 180, 182, 184, and 186. Specifically, the control unit 40 controls the drive motor 124 that drives the flat screw 130, and the drive mechanisms 191, 193, 195, and 197. FIG 9 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the control unit 40.

[0047] For example, a user operates an operation unit (not shown) to output a processing start signal for starting processing to the control unit 40. The operation unit is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, etc. When the control unit 40 receives the processing start signal, it starts processing.

[0048] First, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 40 performs a modeling data acquisition process in step S1 to acquire modeling data for forming a three-dimensional object. The modeling data includes information on the moving path of the discharge unit 160 relative to the stage 20, the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 of the discharge unit 160, and the like. The modeling data is created, for example, by having slicer software installed in a computer connected to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 read shape data. The shape data is data representing a target shape of a three-dimensional object created using three-dimensional CAD (Computer Aided Design) software or three-dimensional CG (Computer Graphics) software. As the shape data, for example, data in the Standard Triangulated Language (STL) format or Additive Manufacturing File Format (AMF) format is used. The slicer software divides the target shape of the three-dimensional object into layers of a predetermined thickness and creates modeling data for each layer. The modeling data is expressed by G-code, M-code, or the like. The control unit 40 acquires modeling data from a computer connected to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 or a recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0049] Next, in step S2, the control unit 40 controls the moving unit 30, the plasticizing unit 120, and the discharge adjusting units 180, 182, 184, and 186 based on the modeling data to perform a modeling layer formation process to form a modeling layer. The control unit 40 generates a plasticized material by controlling the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 and the heating unit 150. The plasticized material continues to be generated while the modeling layer formation process is being performed. Here, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the modeling layer formation process. For convenience, the modeling unit 10 is illustrated in a simplified form in FIG. 10.

[0050] Before the modeling layer forming process is started, that is, before the formation of the first layer L1, which is the first modeling layer, is started, the discharge unit 160 is disposed at an initial position in the -X-axis direction, which is lower than the end of the stage 20 in the -X-axis direction. When the modeling layer forming process is started, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 40 controls the moving unit 30 to move the discharge unit 160 in the +X-axis direction relative to the stage 20. When the discharge unit 160 passes over the stage 20, the plasticizing material is discharged in a continuous linear form from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 of the discharge unit 160. At this time, the control unit 40 individually switches between stopping and restarting the discharge of the plasticizing material from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 based on the modeling data, for example, by controlling the discharge adjustment units 180, 182, 184, and 186. As a result, the first layer L1 is formed. 10, n is an arbitrary natural number, and the n-th layer Ln is illustrated. The switching of the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 will be described later.

[0051] Next, the control unit 40 performs a determination process in step S3 to determine whether or not the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed based on the modeling data, as shown in Fig. 9. If it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has not been completed (if "NO" in step S3), the control unit 40 repeats steps S2 and S3 until it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed. If it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed (if "YES" in step S3), the control unit 40 ends the process.

[0052] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the modeling layer forming process in step S2.

[0053] The control unit 40 starts the modeling layer formation process after a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the plasticizing material generation process based on the modeling data. In the modeling layer formation process described below, the plasticizing material reaches the flow paths 171, 172, 173, and 174 of the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168, and it is possible to stop and resume the discharge of the plasticizing material from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 by controlling the discharge adjustment units 180, 182, 184, and 186.

[0054] For convenience, the modeling layer formation process described below will focus on the process performed on the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164, but will not focus on the process performed on the third nozzle 166 and the fourth nozzle 168.

[0055] First, the control unit 40 performs a determination process of determining whether or not there is a nozzle switching based on the modeling data as step S11, as shown in Fig. 11. The nozzle switching means stopping or restarting the discharge of the plasticizing material for at least one of the nozzles 162 and 164.

[0056] If it is determined that the nozzle has not been switched (if "NO" in step S11), the control unit 40 performs a determination process to determine whether or not modeling of the nth layer has been completed. If it is determined that modeling of the nth layer has been completed (if "YES" in step S12), the control unit 40 ends the modeling layer formation process and proceeds to step S3. If it is not determined that modeling of the nth layer has been completed (if "NO" in step S12), the control unit 40 returns the process to step S11.

[0057] When it is determined that the nozzle is switched (when it is "YES" in step S11), the control unit 40 performs a determination process of determining whether or not special processing is required based on the shaping data, in step S13. The determination process in step S13 will be specifically described.

[0058] The discharge section 160 having the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 has any one of the following first to fourth states.

[0059] First state: First nozzle OFF, second nozzle ON Second state: First nozzle ON, second nozzle ON Third state: First nozzle ON, second nozzle OFF 4th state: 1st nozzle OFF, 2nd nozzle OFF

[0060] It should be noted that "nozzle OFF" refers to a state in which the plasticizing material is not being ejected from the nozzle, and "nozzle ON" refers to a state in which the plasticizing material is being ejected from the nozzle.

[0061] The control unit 40 determines that special processing is required when switching from the first state to the second state, or when switching from the third state to the second state. In cases other than these two cases, for example, when switching from the second state to the third state, the control unit 40 determines that special processing is not required.

[0062] When it is determined that no special processing is required ("NO" in step S13), the control unit 40 controls the discharge adjustment units 180, 182 to switch the state of the discharge unit 160. For example, when switching from the second state to the third state, the control unit 40 drives the second drive mechanism 193 to close the second flow path 172 with the second rod pin 192. This makes it possible to switch from the second state in which the plasticized material is discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 to the third state in which the plasticized material is discharged only from the first nozzle 162.

[0063] When it is determined that special processing is necessary ("YES" in step S13), the control unit 40 performs the processing of step S15. The following describes the case of switching from the first state to the second state. As described above, the first state is a state in which the discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle 162 is stopped and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle 164. The second state is a state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164.

[0064] In step S15, the control unit 40 controls the flat screw 130 based on the modeling data to perform a discharge amount reduction process to reduce the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the second nozzle 164. Specifically, the control unit 40 controls the drive motor 124 to reduce the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 from the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 before the discharge reduction process to the first rotation speed, and rotates the flat screw 130. The rotation speed of the flat screw 130 before the discharge reduction process is, for example, the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 in step S14. As a result, the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the second nozzle 164 is reduced. The control unit 40 may control the drive motor 124 to stop the rotation of the flat screw 130. In this case, the discharge of the plasticized material from the second nozzle 164 is stopped.

[0065] Next, in step S16, the control unit 40 controls the discharge adjustment units 180, 182 to perform a switching process for switching from the first state to the second state. Specifically, the control unit 40 controls the first drive mechanism 191 to open the first flow path 171. This makes it possible to switch from the first state in which the plasticized material is discharged only from the second nozzle 164 to the second state in which the plasticized material is discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164.

[0066] The switching process in step S16 is performed by the control unit 40 outputting a signal to the first discharge adjustment unit 180 to open the first flow path 171. The output of the signal starts the switching process. After receiving the signal from the control unit 40, the first discharge adjustment unit 180 moves the first rod pin 190 to open the first flow path 171. There is, for example, a time lag between the transmission of the signal from the control unit 40 and the opening of the first flow path 171. The discharge rate reduction process is performed by the control unit 40 outputting a signal to the drive motor 124 to reduce the rotation of the flat screw 130. The output of the signal starts the discharge rate reduction process.

[0067] Next, in step S17, the control unit 40 performs a rotation speed increase process of increasing the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 from the first rotation speed to a second rotation speed after switching from the first state to the second state, thereby rotating the flat screw 130. Specifically, the control unit 40 controls the drive motor 124 to return the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 to the rotation speed in the first state. When the rotation of the flat screw 130 is stopped in step S15, the control unit 40 restarts the rotation of the flat screw 130. Thereafter, the control unit 40 performs the determination process of step S12.

[0068] In the above, the modeling layer formation process for the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 has been described, but the description can be applied to a discharge unit having three or more nozzles. As described above, the special process is performed when an "arbitrary nozzle" among the multiple nozzles is turned from OFF to ON, and at least one nozzle among the nozzles other than the "arbitrary nozzle" remains ON. For example, the special process is performed when switching from a state in which the nozzles 162, 164 are ON and the nozzles 166, 168 are OFF to a state in which the nozzles 162, 164, 166 are ON and the nozzle 168 is OFF, or when switching from a state in which the nozzles 162, 164 are ON and the nozzles 166, 168 are OFF to a state in which the nozzles 162, 166 are ON and the nozzles 164, 168 are OFF.

[0069] 1.6. Effects In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the control unit 40 controls the first discharge adjustment unit 180 and the second discharge adjustment unit 182 to perform a switching process to switch from a first state in which the discharge of the plasticized material from the first nozzle 162 is stopped and the plasticized material is discharged from the second nozzle 164 to a second state in which the plasticized material is discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164. Furthermore, before switching from the first state to the second state, the control unit 40 controls the flat screw 130 to perform a discharge amount reduction process to reduce the amount of the plasticized material discharged from the second nozzle 164.

[0070] Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling device 100, the discharge responsiveness of the first nozzle 162 can be improved. When switching from the first state to the second state, since a flow of the plasticized material is generated toward the second nozzle in the first state, if the state is simply switched to the second state without doing anything, it takes time for the plasticized material to flow into the first nozzle, and the responsiveness of the first nozzle deteriorates. In the three-dimensional modeling device 100, by performing a discharge amount reduction process before switching from the first state to the second state, the flow of the plasticized material toward the second nozzle 164 can be weakened, making it easier for the plasticized material to flow into the first nozzle 162, and therefore the discharge responsiveness of the first nozzle 162 can be improved. As a result, the time required to form a three-dimensional object can be shortened.

[0071] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the control unit 40 rotates the flat screw 130 by decreasing the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 from the rotation speed before the discharge rate reduction process to a first rotation speed in the discharge rate reduction process, and after switching from the first state to the second state, the control unit 40 performs a rotation speed increase process to increase the rotation speed from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed to rotate the flat screw 130. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, after switching from the first state to the second state, it is possible to return the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 to the discharge rate in the first state.

[0072] In the three-dimensional modeling device 100, the control unit 40 starts the discharge rate reduction process before the start of the switching process. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling device 100, the discharge rate reduction process can be more reliably performed before switching from the first state to the second state, compared to a case in which the discharge rate reduction process is started after the start of the switching process.

[0073] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the control unit 40 stops the rotation of the flat screw 130 in the discharge amount reduction process, and resumes the rotation of the flat screw 130 in the rotation speed increase process. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the flow of the plasticized material to the second nozzle 164 can be stopped before switching from the first state to the second state, and thus the discharge responsiveness of the first nozzle 162 can be further improved.

[0074] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 are aligned in a direction intersecting with the X-axis as a first axis. The moving unit 30 moves the discharge unit 160 relative to the stage 20 along the X-axis. In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 are aligned in a direction intersecting with the direction of relative movement of the stage 20 with respect to the discharge unit 160, so that, for example, a plurality of line widths can be formed by one movement of the stage 20. This can improve modeling efficiency.

[0075] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the first discharge adjustment unit 180 has a first rod pin 190 that moves in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plasticized material flows, and the second discharge adjustment unit 182 has a second rod pin 192 that moves in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plasticized material flows. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the distance between the discharge adjustment units 180 and 182 can be made smaller than in the case of opening and closing the nozzle flow path with, for example, a butterfly valve. This allows for miniaturization.

[0076] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the plasticizing unit 120 includes a flat screw 130 having a groove forming surface 132 on which a first groove 134 is formed, a barrel 140 having an opposing surface 142 opposing the groove forming surface 132 and having a communication hole 146 communicating with a first nozzle 162 and a second nozzle 164, and a heating unit 150 for heating the material between the flat screw 130 and the barrel 140. Therefore, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 can be made smaller than when an in-line screw is used instead of the flat screw 130. If the apparatus is not intended to be made smaller, the apparatus may include an in-line screw having a long shaft with a spiral groove formed thereon and a cylindrical barrel surrounding the in-line screw, instead of the flat screw 130, and the material may be plasticized using the relative rotation of the in-line screw and the cylindrical barrel.

[0077] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, the first nozzle opening 163 of the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle opening 165 of the second nozzle 164 have a rectangular shape when viewed from the direction in which the plasticized material flows. Therefore, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, it is possible to reduce the possibility of an unintended gap occurring between the plasticized material discharged from the first nozzle 162 and the plasticized material discharged from the second nozzle 164, compared to, for example, a case in which the first nozzle opening and the second nozzle opening have a circular shape.

[0078] 2. Modifications of the 3D printing device 2.1. First variant Next, a three-dimensional printing apparatus according to a first modified example of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a modeling layer formation process by the control unit 40 of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the first modified example of this embodiment.

[0079] Hereinafter, in the 3D printing apparatus according to the first modified example of this embodiment, differences from the example of the 3D printing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment described above will be described, and a description of similarities will be omitted. This also applies to the 3D printing apparatus according to the second and third modified examples of this embodiment described below.

[0080] In the above-described three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, as shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 40 starts the discharge rate reduction process in step S15 before starting the switching process in step S16.

[0081] In contrast, in the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the first modified example of this embodiment, the control unit 40 starts the discharge rate reduction process in step S26 after starting the switching process in step S25, as shown in Fig. 12. Therefore, the period during which the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 is reduced, for example, can be made shorter than when the discharge rate reduction process is started before the switching process starts.

[0082] Note that steps S21 to S24 are respectively the same as steps S11 to S14 described above. Step S25 is the same as step S16 described above. Step S26 is the same as step S15 described above. Step S27 is the same as step S17 described above.

[0083] 2.2. Second variant Next, a three-dimensional printing apparatus according to a second modified example of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a modeling layer formation process by the control unit 40 of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the second modified example of this embodiment.

[0084] In the above-described three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, as shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 40 reduces the rotation speed of the flat screw 130 in the discharge rate reduction process in step S15.

[0085] 13, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the second modification of the present embodiment, the control unit 40 controls the second discharge adjustment unit 182 in the discharge rate reduction process of step S35 to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 from the discharge rate from the second nozzle 164 before the discharge rate reduction process to the first discharge rate. Specifically, the control unit 40 controls the second drive mechanism 193 to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 from the discharge rate in the first state to the first discharge rate. The second drive mechanism 193 may completely close the second flow path 172 with the second rod pin 192, or may open a part of the second flow path 172.

[0086] After switching from the first state to the second state, the control unit 40 performs a discharge amount increase process in step S37 to increase the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount by controlling the second discharge adjustment unit 182. Specifically, the control unit 40 increases the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount by controlling the second drive mechanism 193. The second drive mechanism 193, for example, moves the second rod pin 192 to completely open the second flow path 172.

[0087] It should be noted that steps S31 to S34 are similar to the above-mentioned steps S11 to S14, respectively, and step S36 is similar to the above-mentioned step S16.

[0088] In addition, if the ejection unit has three or more nozzles and it is determined that special processing is necessary, an ejection volume reduction process and an ejection volume increase process are performed on the ejection adjustment unit corresponding to at least one of the nozzles that remains ON before and after the nozzle switching.

[0089] In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the second modification of this embodiment, the control unit 40 controls the second discharge adjustment unit 182 in the discharge rate reduction process to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 before the discharge rate reduction process to the first discharge rate, and after switching from the first state to the second state, the control unit 40 controls the second discharge adjustment unit 182 to perform a discharge rate increase process to increase the discharge rate from the first discharge rate to the second discharge rate. Therefore, the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle 164 can be reduced without reducing the rotation speed of the flat screw 130.

[0090] 2.3. Third variant Next, a three-dimensional printing apparatus according to a third modified example of this embodiment will be described. In the above-described three-dimensional printing apparatus 100, ABS resin is used as the material for printing a three-dimensional object.

[0091] In contrast, the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the third modified example of this embodiment can use, as a material for forming a three-dimensional object, various materials, such as a thermoplastic material other than ABS, a metal material, a ceramic material, and the like, as the main material. Here, the "main material" refers to a material that is the core material forming the shape of the three-dimensional object, and refers to a material that occupies 50% by mass or more in the three-dimensional object. The above-mentioned materials include those main materials that are melted alone, and those in which some components contained together with the main material are melted and turned into a paste.

[0092] Examples of the thermoplastic material include thermoplastic resins, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyacetal (POM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate (PC), modified polyphenylene ether, polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyetherimide, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0093] The thermoplastic material may contain additives such as pigments, metals, ceramics, and wax, flame retardants, antioxidants, and heat stabilizers. The thermoplastic material is plasticized and converted into a molten state in the plasticizing section 120 by the rotation of the flat screw 130 and the heating of the heating section 150. The plasticized material thus produced is hardened by a decrease in temperature after being discharged from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168. It is desirable that the thermoplastic material is discharged from the nozzles 162, 164, 166, and 168 in a completely molten state by being heated to or above its glass transition point.

[0094] In the plasticizing section 120, for example, a metal material may be used as the main material instead of the above-mentioned material having thermoplasticity. In this case, it is preferable that a component that melts when the plasticized material is produced is mixed with a powder material made by powdering the metal material, and the mixture is fed into the plasticizing section 120.

[0095] Examples of metal materials include single metals such as magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni), or alloys containing one or more of these metals, as well as maraging steel, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, cobalt alloys, and cobalt-chromium alloys.

[0096] Instead of the above-mentioned metal materials, a ceramic material can be used as the main material in the plasticizing portion 120. Examples of the ceramic material include oxide ceramics such as silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide, and zirconium oxide, and non-oxide ceramics such as aluminum nitride.

[0097] The powder material of the metallic material or the ceramic material fed into the material feed section 110 may be a mixed material in which a single metal powder, an alloy powder, or a ceramic material powder is mixed with a plurality of types of powder. The powder material of the metallic material or the ceramic material may be coated with, for example, the above-mentioned thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic resin other than the above. In this case, the thermoplastic resin may be melted in the plasticizing section 120 to exhibit fluidity.

[0098] For example, a solvent may be added to the powder material of the metal material or ceramic material fed into the material feed unit 110. Examples of the solvent include water; (poly)alkylene glycol monoalkyl ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, and propylene glycol monoethyl ether; acetates such as ethyl acetate, n-propyl acetate, iso-propyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, and iso-butyl acetate; aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, and xylene; ketones such as methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl-n-butyl ketone, diisopropyl ketone, and acetylacetone; alcohols such as ethanol, propanol, and butanol; tetraalkylammonium acetates; sulfoxide-based solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide and diethyl sulfoxide; pyridine-based solvents such as pyridine, γ-picoline, and 2,6-lutidine; tetraalkylammonium acetates (for example, tetrabutylammonium acetate, etc.); and ionic liquids such as butyl carbitol acetate.

[0099] Additionally, for example, a binder may be added to the powder material of the metal material or ceramic material fed into the material feed unit 110. Examples of the binder include acrylic resin, epoxy resin, silicone resin, cellulose-based resin, other synthetic resins, PLA, PA, PPS, PEEK, and other thermoplastic resins.

[0100] 3. Injection molding equipment In the above embodiment, a three-dimensional modeling apparatus is illustrated, but the present invention can be applied not only to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus but also to other apparatuses such as an injection molding apparatus. For example, in the case of an injection molding apparatus, the above modeling unit 10, a mold section in which a cavity space is formed, a mold clamping section, and an injection control section are included, and the injection control section functions similarly to the control section 40 of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100. The injection control section controls the first discharge adjustment section 180 and the second discharge adjustment section 182 to execute a switching process for switching from a first state in which the first nozzle 162 stops discharging the plasticized material into the cavity and the second nozzle 164 discharges the plasticized material into the cavity to a second state in which the first nozzle 162 and the second nozzle 164 discharge the plasticized material into the cavity, and a discharge amount reduction process for reducing the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the second nozzle 164 by controlling the screw or the second discharge adjustment section 182 before switching from the first state to the second state. Here, the screw refers to a flat screw 130 or an in-line screw.

[0101] The above-described embodiment and modifications are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the embodiments and modifications can be appropriately combined.

[0102] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments, for example, configurations with the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations with the same purpose and effects. The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects as the configurations described in the embodiments, or configurations that can achieve the same purpose. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0103] The following can be derived from the above-described embodiment.

[0104] One aspect of the three-dimensional printing apparatus includes: a plasticizing section having a screw and rotating the screw to plasticize the material and generate a plasticized material; a stage having a deposition surface onto which the plasticized material is deposited; a discharge section that discharges the plasticizing material toward the deposition surface and has a first nozzle and a second nozzle that communicate with the plasticizing section; A first discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle; A second discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle; a moving unit that moves the discharge unit relative to the stage along a first axis that is parallel to the deposition surface; A control unit that controls the plasticizing unit, the first discharge adjustment unit, and the second discharge adjustment unit; Including, The control unit is a switching process of controlling the first discharge adjustment unit and the second discharge adjustment unit to switch from a first state in which the discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle to a second state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a discharge rate reduction process for reducing a discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle by controlling the screw or the second discharge adjustment unit before switching from the first state to the second state; Do the following.

[0105] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, the ejection response of the first nozzle can be improved.

[0106] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, the control unit, in the discharge rate reduction process, rotates the screw at a rotation speed lowered from a rotation speed of the screw before the discharge rate reduction process is performed to a first rotation speed, The control unit may perform a rotational speed increasing process of rotating the screw by increasing the rotational speed from the first rotational speed to a second rotational speed after switching from the first state to the second state.

[0107] According to this three-dimensional modeling device, after switching from the first state to the second state, the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle can be returned to the discharge amount in the first state.

[0108] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The control unit may start the discharge rate reducing process after starting the switching process.

[0109] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, for example, the period during which the rotation speed of the screw is reduced can be made shorter, compared to the case where the discharge rate reducing process is started before the switching process is started.

[0110] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The control unit may start the discharge rate reduction process before starting the switching process.

[0111] According to this three-dimensional modeling device, the discharge rate reduction process can be more reliably performed before switching from the first state to the second state, compared to the case where the discharge rate reduction process is started after the switching process is started.

[0112] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The control unit is In the discharge rate reduction process, the rotation of the screw is stopped, In the rotation speed increasing process, the rotation of the screw may be restarted.

[0113] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, the ejection responsiveness of the first nozzle can be further improved.

[0114] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The control unit controls the second discharge adjustment unit in the discharge rate reduction process to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle before the discharge rate reduction process is performed to a first discharge rate, The control unit may perform a discharge amount increase process for increasing the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount by controlling the second discharge adjustment unit after switching from the first state to the second state.

[0115] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, it is possible to reduce the amount of plasticizing material discharged from the second nozzle without reducing the rotation speed of the screw.

[0116] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The first nozzle and the second nozzle may be aligned in a direction intersecting the first axis.

[0117] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, modeling efficiency can be improved.

[0118] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The first discharge adjustment unit has a first rod pin that moves in a direction intersecting a direction in which the plasticizing material flows, The second discharge adjustment portion may have a second rod pin that moves in a direction intersecting a direction in which the plasticizing material flows.

[0119] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, the distance between the first discharge adjustment unit and the second discharge adjustment unit can be made small.

[0120] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, The screw is a flat screw having a groove forming surface on which grooves are formed, The plasticizing section includes: a barrel having an opposing surface facing the groove forming surface and provided with communication holes communicating with the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a heating section for heating the material between the screw and the barrel; may have the following structure:

[0121] This three-dimensional modeling apparatus can be made smaller than when an in-line screw is used as the screw.

[0122] In one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus, A first nozzle opening of the first nozzle and a second nozzle opening of the second nozzle may have a rectangular shape when viewed in the direction of flow of the plasticized material.

[0123] According to this three-dimensional modeling apparatus, it is possible to reduce the possibility that an unintended gap will occur between the plasticized material discharged from the first nozzle and the plasticized material discharged from the second nozzle.

[0124] One aspect of the method for producing a three-dimensional object includes the steps of: A method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising the steps of: plasticizing a material by rotating a screw to generate a plasticized material in a plasticizing section; discharging the plasticized material from a first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating with the plasticizing section toward a stage while moving the first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating with the plasticizing section relative to a stage, thereby forming a three-dimensional object, A process of controlling a first discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle and a second discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle, to switch from a first state in which the discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle to a second state in which the plasticizing material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle; Before switching from the first state to the second state, the screw or the second discharge adjustment unit is controlled to reduce the discharge rate of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle; Includes. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10...modeling unit, 20...stage, 22...deposition surface, 30...movement section, 32...motor, 40...control section, 100...three-dimensional modeling device, 110...material input section, 112...supply path, 120...plasticization section, 122...screw case, 124...driving motor, 126...shaft, 130...flat screw, 131...upper surface, 132...groove forming surface, 133...side, 134...first groove, 135...center, 136...connection section, 137...material introduction section, 140...barrel, 142...opposing surface, 144...second groove, 146...communicating hole, 148...periphery, 150...heating section, 160...discharge section, 162...first nozzle, 163...first nozzle opening, 164...second nozzle, 16 5...second nozzle opening, 166...third nozzle, 167...third nozzle opening, 168...fourth nozzle, 169...fourth nozzle opening, 170...flow path substrate, 171...first flow path, 172...second flow path, 173...third flow path, 174...fourth flow path, 175...common flow path, 176...first branch flow path, 177...second branch flow path, 178...third branch flow path, 180...first discharge adjustment section, 182...second discharge adjustment section, 184...third discharge adjustment section, 186...fourth discharge adjustment section, 190...first rod pin, 191...first drive mechanism, 192...second rod pin, 193...second drive mechanism, 194...third rod pin, 195...third drive mechanism, 196...fourth rod pin, 197...fourth drive mechanism

Claims

1. The plasticizer has a screw and plasticizes the material by rotating the screw. a plasticizing section for producing the material; a stage having a deposition surface onto which the plasticized material is deposited; a first nozzle that discharges the plasticizing material toward the deposition surface and communicates with the plasticizing section; a discharge section having a first nozzle and a second nozzle; A first discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle; a second discharge adjustment unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle; The discharge portion is moved relative to the stage along a first axis parallel to the deposition surface. A moving part that moves the A control unit that controls the plasticizing unit, the first discharge adjustment unit, and the second discharge adjustment unit; Equipped with The control unit is The first discharge adjustment unit and the second discharge adjustment unit are controlled to adjust the amount of the The discharge of the plasticizing material is stopped, and the plasticizing material is discharged from the second nozzle. From a first state in which the plasticized material is discharged from the first nozzle and the second nozzle, a switching process for switching to the second state that is being issued; The screw or the second discharge adjusting unit is controlled to adjust the amount of the plasticized liquid from the second nozzle. a discharge amount reduction process for reducing the discharge amount of the chemical material; This is a three-dimensional printing device that performs the above steps.

2. In claim 1, The control unit starts the discharge amount reduction process before starting the switching process. Device.

3. In claim 1, The control unit starts the discharge amount reduction process after the switching process is started. Device.

4. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The control unit is In the discharge rate reduction process, the rotation speed of the screw before the discharge rate reduction process is performed rotating the screw at a rotational speed decreasing from a first rotational speed to a first rotational speed; After the switching process and the discharge rate reduction process, the rotation speed is increased from the first rotation speed to the second rotation speed. and rotating the screw.

5. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The control unit is In the discharge rate reduction process, the rotation of the screw is stopped, After the switching process and the discharge rate reduction process, the rotation of the screw is resumed. Former modeling device.

6. In claim 1, The control unit is In the discharge amount reduction process, the second discharge adjustment unit is controlled to The discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle before the amount reduction process is reduced to the first discharge amount. Let it down, After the switching process and the discharge amount reduction process, the second discharge adjustment unit is controlled. and increasing the first discharge amount to a second discharge amount.

7. In any one of claims 1 to 6, The first nozzle and the second nozzle are aligned in a direction intersecting the first axis. Dimensional modeling device.

8. In any one of claims 1 to 7, The first discharge adjustment unit is a first roller that moves in a direction intersecting a direction in which the plasticizing material flows. having a head pin, The second discharge adjustment unit is a second roller that moves in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plasticizing material flows. A three-dimensional modeling device having a head pin.

9. In any one of claims 1 to 8, The screw is a flat screw having a groove forming surface on which grooves are formed, The plasticizing section includes: a groove forming surface and a nozzle hole formed in the groove forming surface; a barrel having a communication hole; a heating section for heating the material between the screw and the barrel; A three-dimensional printing apparatus having the above structure.

10. In any one of claims 1 to 9, The first nozzle opening of the first nozzle and the second nozzle opening of the second nozzle are A three-dimensional modeling device having a rectangular shape when viewed from the direction in which the plasticized material flows.

11. The material is plasticized by rotating the screw to produce a plasticized material in the plasticizing section. A first nozzle and a second nozzle communicating with the plasticizing section are moved relative to the stage. While the plasticizing material is being heated, the plasticizing material is directed from the first nozzle and the second nozzle toward the stage. A manufacturing method of a three-dimensional object, which comprises discharging a material to form a three-dimensional object, a first discharge adjusting unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle; and a second discharge adjusting unit that adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle, The discharge of the plasticizing material from the first nozzle is stopped and the discharge of the plasticizing material from the second nozzle is stopped. From a first state in which the plasticizing material is being discharged, switching to a second state in which the plasticized material is being dispensed from the nozzle; The screw or the second discharge adjusting unit is controlled to adjust the amount of the plasticized liquid from the second nozzle. reducing the discharge rate of the curing material; A method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising:

Images