A dental printing system with a 3D filament printing device that only prints dental instruments

Abstract

To provide a dental printing system.SOLUTION: There is provided a dental printing system that comprises: a 3D filament printing apparatus (10) exclusively used for printing dental devices (12), in particular a dental model, an impression tray and / or aligner, the 3D filament printing apparatus (10) having a filament reservoir unit (14) for receiving a filament (16), at least one printing head (18), and a unit (20) for control and / or regulation; a display unit (22); and a computing unit (24) that is configured to convert a CAD file of the dental device (12) into printing instructions and has at least one memory unit (26). The computing unit (24) is configured to, before each printing operation, check whether the CAD file is compliant with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental device (12) for the 3D filament printing apparatus (10).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a dental printing system that includes a 3D filament printing device that only prints dental instruments. [Background technology]

[0002] The present invention relates to a dental printing system comprising a 3D filament printing device used only for printing dental instruments, in particular at least one of dental models, impression trays and aligners, the 3D filament printing device having a filament storage unit for receiving a filament, at least one print head and a control and / or adjustment unit, a display unit and a computing unit configured to convert CAD files of dental instruments into printing instructions and having at least one memory unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 75089 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 1574 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 96318 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 347930 [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2018 / 226206 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 6,129,872 [Patent Document 7] US Patent Application Publication No. 2002 / 147521 [Patent Document 8] US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 114584 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the invention is, inter alia, to provide a universal device having advantageous operating characteristics. According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features of claim 1, whereas advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention can be seen from the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention relates to a dental printing system comprising a 3D filament printing device used only for printing dental instruments, in particular at least one of dental models, impression trays and aligners, the 3D filament printing device having a filament storage unit for receiving a filament, at least one print head and a control and / or adjustment unit, a display unit and a computing unit configured to convert CAD files of dental instruments into printing instructions and having at least one memory unit.

[0006] It is proposed that the computing unit is configured to check, before each printing operation, whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions of the 3D filament printing device associated with at least one dental instrument, where the standard printing conditions are preferably specific in particular to the 3D filament printing device and to the dental instrument to be printed.

[0007] The 3D filament printing device is preferably at least a part of a 3D printer, preferably a subassembly of a 3D printer. The 3D filament printing device may in particular constitute the entire 3D printer. The 3D filament printing device is preferably configured for use as part of a 3D printer. The 3D filament printing device, in particular as part of a 3D printer, is preferably configured for printing only dental and / or orthodontic appliances, in particular dental models, impression trays and / or aligners. The dental and / or orthodontic appliances are in particular limited to dental models, impression trays and / or aligners. The 3D filament printing device, in particular as part of a 3D printer, is preferably designed in such a way that the user can select whether to print a dental model, an impression tray and / or an aligner. Thereby, the user only needs to set the corresponding digital model of the dental model, the impression tray and / or the aligner, and the printing operation starts immediately, in particular in the absence of an error notification. That an object is configured or designed for a certain function preferably means that the object performs and / or executes that certain function in at least one application state and / or operating state. "Operating state" is preferably understood to mean a state of the 3D filament printing device in which it is ready for the operation of a printing process and in particular is connected to a power grid, preferably a state in which something is displayed on the display unit of the 3D filament printing device and / or a voltage is applied to the control and / or regulation unit.

[0008] "Control and / or regulating unit" means in particular a unit having at least one set of control electronics. "Control electronics" means in particular a unit having a processor unit and a storage unit and having an operating program stored in the storage unit. The control and / or regulating unit is in particular used to control and / or regulate the operation of the 3D filament printing device. The control and / or regulating unit is in particular used to control components of the 3D filament printing device. Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is designed to move the filament from the filament storage unit to the print head. Preferably, the control and / or regulating unit is designed to control and / or regulate the output of the filament from the print head. The print head is preferably heatable, the temperature of the print head being adjustable by the control and / or regulating unit. The control and / or regulating unit is preferably designed to move at least one print head such that the print head can output the filament to form a dental appliance in or on the print bed, in particular on the printing board. The print bed, in particular the printing board and / or the print head are preferably designed to be heatable. The 3D filament printing device preferably comprises a heating unit for heating the printing bed, in particular the printing board and / or the print head, which heating unit is in particular connected to the control and / or regulating unit. The control and / or regulating unit is preferably designed to heat the printing bed, in particular the printing board and / or the print head, preferably via the heating unit. The control and / or regulating unit is preferably designed to move the printing bed, in particular the printing board, in particular during the printing operation. The 3D filament printing device preferably comprises an actuator unit for moving the printing board and / or the print head, which actuator unit is in particular connected to the control and / or regulating unit. The control and / or regulating unit is preferably designed to move the printing bed, in particular the printing board and / or the print head, preferably via the actuator unit, in particular during the printing operation.

[0009] "Computing unit" means in particular a unit having an information input, an information processing and an information output. The computing unit advantageously comprises at least one processor, a memory, input / output means, further electronic components, an operating program, a regulation routine, a control routine and / or a computing routine. The components of the computing unit are preferably arranged on a common circuit board and / or advantageously arranged in a common housing. The computing unit is preferably configured to convert a CAD file of the dental tool at least substantially automatically into a printing instruction. The computing unit is preferably configured to read data from the CAD file and to determine from said data the movement path and / or the material deposition of the 3D filament printing device. The CAD file is preferably provided via a server or an external storage medium, for example via the storage unit. The CAD file is in particular configured as an STL file.

[0010] The computing unit is preferably configured to check whether the CAD file is compatible with standard printing conditions of the 3D filament printing device associated with at least one dental instrument. The standard printing conditions are specific to both the 3D filament printing device and the dental instrument to be printed. The standard printing conditions are used to compare the compatibility of the 3D filament printing device with the CAD file. The standard printing conditions are used in particular to check whether the CAD file can be printed by the 3D filament printing device. For example, the alignment of the model on the print bed in the CAD file is checked. For example, it is also checked whether the model of the CAD file is closed. Furthermore, it is also possible to check whether the CAD file has defects, for example whether the surface is not complete and has holes. The standard printing conditions define certain criteria that the CAD file must fulfill in order to be printed or printable. The standard printing conditions may additionally include parameters that allow the CAD file to be adapted depending on the 3D filament printing device and the dental instrument to be printed. Thus, the standard printing conditions include, for example, the wall thickness of the dental instrument to be printed, which wall thickness depends in particular on the dental instrument to be printed and the 3D filament printing device.

[0011] The design of the dental printing system according to the invention has the advantage that the printability of the CAD model can be guaranteed, that an uncomplicated and / or intuitive operation can be achieved, that a 3D filament printing device can be constructed that is advantageously specialized for dental instruments, and that a printing initialization can be performed quickly.

[0012] It is also proposed that the computing unit is configured to check before each printing operation whether the printing instructions comply with standard printing conditions of the 3D filament printing device associated with the at least one dental instrument. The printing instructions are preferably generated by means of a slicer. The computing unit is preferably configured to check the printing instructions for compatibility with the 3D filament printing device. Furthermore, the printing instructions may be checked for errors by the computing unit. In particular errors in the printing instructions may be identified. Furthermore, the computing unit may be particularly configured to correct the printing instructions in case of errors and / or compatibility problems.

[0013] It is also proposed that for the printing of each individual dental appliance a respective print parameter package is stored in the storage unit, in particular in the form of defined values ​​of different print parameters, and that the computing unit is configured to use the print parameter package depending on the print job. The print parameter package is preferably stored in the storage unit for the printing of the dental model, in particular in the form of defined values ​​of different print parameters. The print parameter package in the form of defined values ​​of different print parameters is preferably stored in the storage unit for the printing of the impression tray. The print parameter package in the form of defined values ​​of different print parameters is preferably stored in the storage unit for the printing of the aligner. The print parameter package for the printing of the dental model is preferably different from the print parameter package for the printing of the impression tray with respect to at least one value of the at least one print parameter. The print parameter package for the printing of the impression tray is preferably different from the print parameter package for the printing of the aligner with respect to at least one value of the at least one print parameter. The print parameter package for the printing of the impression tray is preferably different from the print parameter package for the printing of the aligner with respect to at least one value of the at least one print parameter. In this case, the print parameter package is adapted in particular with regard to the material, the required surface quality, etc. Advantageously, the print parameter package contains, for example, the type of filament, the type of print head, the print speed, the print head temperature, the print table temperature, the air humidity, the wall thickness of the dental instrument and / or the alignment of the digital model of the dental instrument. A 3D filament printing device can be constructed which is advantageously specialized for dental instruments. In particular, it has the advantage that the initialization of the print can be performed quickly. The design according to the invention can be easily operated even by a person who is not skilled in the technology of the printing system, and it is possible to avoid incorrect settings that may cause the loss or at least defects of the print result.

[0014] It is further proposed that the computing unit is configured to correct or supplement the CAD file or output correction suggestions to the operator in case of a mismatch between at least one parameter of the CAD file of the at least one dental appliance currently to be printed and the standard printing conditions of the at least one dental appliance. The computing unit is preferably configured to automatically process the CAD file and / or to transfer the data in a form corrected by the slicer during processing. In this case, the data may be corrected completely automatically or the correction may be allowed by a question to the operator. When correcting the CAD file, for example, the alignment of the model is corrected. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to change the base of the model. For example, during correction, the model is closed if it is defective or does not form a closed volume. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the computing unit, in particular the slicer software or the model creator, automatically blocks out undercuts. The blocking out is performed in particular when creating an aligner model. In the blocking out process, relatively large undercuts in the model are particularly blocked out. In particular, by performing the blocking out process, excessively high pull-out forces caused by the undercuts can be avoided. The blockout process can be performed on the aligner model using a separate support material that is removed after the aligner is manufactured. A printing operation with two different filaments can be performed in order to print the blockout area using a special blockout filament that can be removed later. This has the advantage that the operation is particularly easy to perform. In particular, the advantage is that an uncomplicated and / or intuitive operation is achieved. A 3D filament printing device that is advantageously specialized for dental instruments can be constructed. In particular, it has the advantage that the printing initialization can be performed quickly. The design according to the invention can be easily operated even by a person who is not skilled in the technology of the printing system.

[0015] The computing unit may be designed to optimize the CAD file, in particular with respect to printing time and / or filament consumption. Preferably, the computing unit is configured to adapt the CAD file to speed up printing of the dental appliance on the 3D filament printing device and / or to reduce the filament required for the printing operation.

[0016] It is also proposed that the computing unit is designed to initiate a change in color of the display unit if a mismatch is found between at least one parameter and / or print instructions of the CAD file of the at least one dental tool and the standard printing conditions for the at least one dental tool. The display unit preferably forms part of an operator unit and / or an operator terminal device of the 3D filament printing device. Preferably, the operating unit has at least one input device connected to the control and / or adjustment unit. The at least one input device may be a keyboard, a computer mouse, a touch screen display and / or a lever, having at least one button, control knob, switch, controller, etc. Preferably, the input device is a touch screen display. The at least one touch screen display in particular at the same time constitutes the display unit. However, a different design of the display unit may be selected accordingly, as deemed appropriate by the person skilled in the art. For example, only the color of a partial area of ​​the display unit may be changed. Thus, for example, a colored frame may be displayed in the event of a mismatch. Alternatively or additionally, the display unit may be equipped with a status light, which is lit up in the event of a mismatch, for example. These achieve an intuitive operation of the 3D filament printing device. In particular, an automatic inquiry regarding standard printing conditions for the desired dental model can be initiated. The printing space may be provided with an internal light that changes color depending on the operation and printing state. For example, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to indicate an error-free printing state by emitting a green light using the display unit, in particular the lighting unit. For example, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to indicate a printing failure and / or a premature stop of printing by emitting a red light using the display unit, in particular the lighting unit. For example, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to indicate a standby operation by flashing a low frequency, in particular up to 0.2 Hz, using the display unit, in particular the lighting unit. This allows easy checking of the operating state of the 3D filament printing device.

[0017] The display unit of the 3D filament printing device is particularly embodied as a large color display that allows for detailed instructions and the like. It is also proposed to design the computing unit to check the presence or absence of data errors in the CAD file containing the digital model of at least one dental instrument to be printed. In this case, a data error occurs, for example, if the model in the CAD file is not closed, in particular if it is not based. Also, a data error occurs if the model is not printable, for example because it does not have a flat base, no support material is used, etc. Preferably, the computing unit is at least configured to check the shape and polygonal structure of the model contained in the CAD file. Also, printing errors that waste time and material can be avoided. Furthermore, an intuitive operation of the 3D filament printing device is achieved.

[0018] It is further proposed that the computing unit is designed to check whether the CAD file of the at least one dental tool is open or closed. Preferably, the computing unit is designed to check whether the model of the CAD file of the at least one dental tool is open or closed. If the model is open, then for example a closing operation may be proposed or the model may be automatically closed. Preferably, the model of the CAD file is a surface model consisting of a number of interconnected polygonal surfaces constituting the visible outer surface of the dental model. If the model is not closed, there are no faces between the individual polygons, in particular the outer surface is not completely closed. The solid model is therefore open. Also, printing errors that are time- and material-wasting can be avoided. Furthermore, an intuitive operation of the 3D filament printing device is achieved. The computing unit can be used in particular to perform an automatic closing operation, basing and / or trimming of the model of the CAD file.

[0019] It is further proposed that the calculation unit is designed to check whether the alignment of the printed model of the at least one dental instrument corresponds to the alignment recorded in the standard condition for the at least one dental instrument. Preferably, the calculation unit is designed to check whether the alignment of the largest base surface of the printed model corresponds to the subsequent rest surface on the printing board. The calculation unit is particularly configured to check whether the printed model actually has a rest surface on the printing board and whether the rest surface on the printing board corresponds to the base surface configured for the printing operation. The printed model is particularly preferably aligned such that the plane of the main area of ​​the printed model is parallel to the printing board. In particular, the models must be aligned / placed flat so that they stand upright on the printing board. In case of printing several models at the same time, it is additionally necessary to check that the models do not collide. In particular, in the case of several models, it is conceivable that the calculation unit additionally performs a collision check of the models on the printing board. In this regard, particularly when there are multiple models, the computing unit may suggest to the operator a collision-free arrangement, and the operator may virtually move the models on the printing board only laterally so as not to cause collisions. The "plane of main extent" of a structural unit refers in particular to a plane that is parallel to the largest side of the smallest imaginary rectangular parallelepiped that completely surrounds the structural unit and passes through the center point of the rectangular parallelepiped. The above design makes it possible to avoid printing errors that waste time and material. Furthermore, intuitive operation of the 3D filament printing device is achieved.

[0020] It is also proposed that the computing unit is designed to adapt the alignment of the model to the standard printing conditions in case of a discrepancy between the alignment of the at least one dental instrument model and the standard printing conditions for the at least one dental instrument. For this purpose, the computing unit is preferably configured to process CAD models. For example, the computing unit can perform an automatic orientation of the model on loading. A model rotated by 90 degrees, i.e. lying on its back, can be automatically rotated so that it "slides" parallel on the base surface. The computing unit is configured in particular to automatically position the model on the printing table in a collision-free manner and to perform an automatic collision check during the positioning. The computing unit may also suggest a collision-free position to the operator, who may virtually move the model on the printing board only laterally in a collision-free manner. The computing unit is configured in particular to position the CAD model flat on the printing board. This has the advantage in particular that an error correction can be performed automatically. Also, printing errors that are wasteful of time and material can be avoided. Furthermore, an intuitive operation of the 3D filament printing device is achieved.

[0021] It is further proposed that the dental printing system comprises an operating unit for operating the computing unit, which is designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance based on a user input. An "operating unit" here means in particular a unit having at least one component that can be directly operated by an operator and that can act and / or change the process and / or state of a unit connected to the operating unit through actuation and / or parameter input. The operating unit preferably has at least one input device, in particular directly connected to the computing unit. The at least one input device may be a keyboard with at least one button, control knob, switch, controller, etc., a computer mouse, a touch screen display and / or a lever. Preferably, the input device is embodied as a touch screen display. The operating unit is preferably coupled to a display unit, in particular a display unit different from the display unit of the 3D filament printing device. Preferably, the display unit is designed to display at least three options of dental appliances, in particular dental models, impression trays and aligners, on the at least one touch screen display in at least one operating state, in particular before or after the printing operation. Advantageously, the user can perform user input by pressing and / or touching one of the options displayed on the at least one touch screen display, thereby achieving an intuitive operation of the dental printing system, in particular an automatic inquiry regarding standard printing conditions for the desired dental model can be initiated.

[0022] It is further proposed to configure the operating unit separately from the 3D filament printing device. The at least one input device is preferably configured separately from the input device of the 3D filament printing device. Preferably, the 3D filament printing device comprises a separate operating unit. Configuring the operating unit separately from the 3D filament printing device means that the operating unit is configured separately from the 3D filament printing device, in particular mechanically separated, preferably not mechanically connected, in particular physically separated. Preferably, the operating unit is wirelessly connected to the 3D filament printing device for transmitting data. The operating unit may have a number of input devices, at least one of which may be configured separately from the 3D filament printing device. The operating unit is preferably part of an external device, in particular an operator terminal device. This can provide the advantage that remote control of the 3D filament printing device can be performed. Preferably, the 3D filament printing device is controlled on a separate device, in particular an operator terminal device.

[0023] It is further proposed that the computing unit is designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance according to the at least one desired dental appliance based on a selection mask, in particular graphical and / or visual, in the digital model of the at least one dental appliance to be printed. Preferably, the computing unit is designed to display a graphical and / or visual selection mask with at least three options of dental appliances, in particular dental models, impression trays and aligners, to the operator via the display unit of at least one touch screen display in at least one operating state, in particular before or after the printing operation. Preferably, the computing unit is designed to ask the operator, when the CAD file is loaded, which type of dental appliance is to be printed using the CAD file. The selection mask preferably includes no more than 10 selection options at the same time, preferably no more than 8, particularly preferably no more than 6. Preferably, the selection mask is used to directly select the desired dental appliance, preferably without requiring any other input for printing, such as print parameters. A multi-stage selection mask may be designed and may provide several selection levels. Preferably, in the case of a multi-stage selection, each selection level has up to 8, particularly preferably up to 6, preferably up to 5, preferably up to 4 selection options. This has the advantage that a fast, simple and intuitive operation of the 3D printing system is possible. In particular, questions regarding complex printer-specific parameters can be omitted. The 3D printing system is generally preferably operated in particular by a dental technician, dentist or dental assistant, i.e. does not presuppose complex knowledge of 3D filament printing devices. This has the advantage that the 3D printing system can be quickly understood due to the simple, particularly visual, operation.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, the selection mask may include at least one image of the 3D filament printing device and / or dental instrument, in which a number of contextually arranged input and / or selection fields may be displayed. The input and / or selection fields are in particular arranged to correspond to the image or elements of the image. Preferably, the input and / or selection fields are preselected and / or prefilled, in particular requiring correction of only those input and / or selection fields in which an incorrect value has been entered. Thus, direct input may in particular be made directly in the image. This allows for storage in particular at the level of multiple sections.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the computing unit evaluates the CAD file, in particular analysing the shape of the model and pre-selecting options and / or pre-populating input and / or selection fields depending on the CAD file. The computing unit is in particular capable of recognising the type of dental instrument contained in the CAD file.

[0026] The control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to check whether the filament type required by the print parameter package of the at least one dental appliance to be printed corresponds to the filament type of the filament in the filament storage unit. The filament, in particular the filament type, located in the filament storage unit is detected before or after insertion, in particular by a bar code and / or an RFID code. By using the app, the filament may be detected via a camera of the operator terminal. "Filament type" is understood to mean in particular the material of the filament and / or the diameter of the filament. Advantageously, the 3D filament printing device is compatible with the defined filaments, and different filaments are provided depending on the application. The above design offers the advantage that the filament material can be checked in advance. In particular, incorrect printing with incorrect filaments can be avoided. Depending on the type of filament required for the at least one dental appliance to be printed, the print parameter package may include a magnification in at least one axis of the model to be printed. This magnification is configured to compensate for the shrinkage behavior of the filament. Preferably, the scale factor is used to compensate for shrinkage of the printed model due to filament shrinkage by enlarging the printed model with respect to the CAD model by at least one factor. The scale factor is also used for shrinkage compensation. Slicer software is known that provides configurable parameters to perform material shrinkage compensation. Suitable default values ​​are in the low single digit percent range. The scale factor of the print parameter package is specifically adapted to the filament stored in the print parameter package. Preferably, the print parameter package includes separate scale factors for the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis. Preferably, the X-axis scale factor corresponds to the Y-axis scale factor. Preferably, the Z-axis scale factor is lower than the X-axis scale factor. Preferably, the scale factor is automatically applied with the print parameter package during the printing operation. This allows for high accuracy of the printed model.It is also proposed that at least one 3D filament printing apparatus comprises at least one filament storage unit. The control and / or regulation unit is also designed to detect the amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit and to display the remaining amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit via the display unit. Preferably, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to display the remaining amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit at least temporarily via the display unit, in particular a touch screen display. The computing unit can preferably query the filament type of the filament currently arranged in the filament storage unit via the control and / or regulation unit. The computing unit can preferably query the remaining amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit via the control and / or regulation unit. This makes it possible in particular to determine whether there is enough filament to perform a future print job. The consumption is preferably automatically determined in the storage unit during the printing operation. This makes it possible to determine whether printing can be performed without interruptions or to determine the time until the next filament change. In particular, changing of the filament during the printing operation can be avoided. The 3D filament printing apparatus may further comprise an automatic filament change means.

[0027] The filament is arranged in particular in a filament storage unit of the 3D filament printing device. The filament is preferably received in the form of a roll. The filament must not in particular go beyond the end of the roll when wound up, but may slide slightly, for example by means of a mounting shaft. It may have an integrated dust-proof structure. This has the advantage that the filament is always stored in the warm environment of the 3D filament printing device, so that less residual moisture remains. The guide of the filament in the printing space is preferably designed to be removable. In the case of an integrated filament roll holder, in particular the remaining amount of filament can be constantly monitored. The control and / or regulating unit preferably outputs the remaining amount, for example via a display unit, or transmits it to the computing unit by communicating with the filament storage unit. Communication with the filament storage unit can additionally take place via WLAN and / or an app. A bidirectional transmission of data for advance planning and processing may take place between the computing unit and / or the control and / or regulating unit and the filament storage unit.

[0028] The filament storage unit is in particular embodied as a filament box integrated into the 3D filament printing device. The filament may be automatically loaded and unloaded from the filament storage unit. The filament may be receivable in the filament storage unit. It is also conceivable to embody the filament storage unit as a separate drying box for the filament, in which the filament is preconditioned. In this case, the preconditioning can be performed according to standard printing conditions, in particular for the current print job. In this case, the drying box may have a communication interface for communicating with the computing unit and / or the 3D filament printing device and transferring the state of the filament.

[0029] It is further proposed that the control and / or regulation unit is designed to check whether the print head, in particular the nozzle of the print head, required by the print parameter package for the model to be printed of at least one dental instrument corresponds to the print head used. The 3D filament printing device is preferably compatible with a defined print head, and different print heads, in particular print heads with different fineness, are provided depending on the application. In this case, in particular the nozzle of the print head is determined. This provides the advantage that the print head can be checked in advance. In particular, incorrect printing with an incorrect print head can be avoided. In particular, two print heads can be directly attached to the 3D filament printing device to avoid frequent exchange of the filament. The control and / or regulation unit is preferably configured to recognize which filament is loaded into the print head. Two print heads with different performances may be provided. An automatic allocation of the print heads can be performed depending on the model to be printed. Alternatively or additionally, the hot end and the nozzle can be configured to be quickly and easily exchanged, possibly without the use of tools.

[0030] It is further proposed that the 3D filament printing device comprises a sensor unit with at least one sensor for air humidity and / or filament moisture connected to the control and / or regulating unit, the control and / or regulating unit being designed to check whether the measured humidity or moisture corresponds to a defined humidity or moisture value. The sensor unit preferably comprises a number of sensors, at least one of which is implemented as an air humidity and / or filament moisture sensor. This makes it possible in particular to monitor the reliability of the process. In particular, factors that influence the printing process can be detected and taken into account. In this case, for example, in the case of a humidity or moisture mismatch, the humidity or moisture value may be adapted by controlling ventilation or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the printing process may be adapted, for example, by adapting the printing parameters to the changed humidity or moisture. Alternatively or additionally, in the case of a humidity or moisture mismatch, the printing process may be terminated or at least interrupted. Depending on the filament used for the printing operation, the standard printing conditions preferably include set values ​​for air humidity and / or filament moisture. In particular, each filament may be treated with a different humidity or moisture. In this case, the moisture of the filament is particularly suitable, since it may differ from the air humidity. In this case, the moisture of the filament may be measured when the filament is fed. In this case, the moisture of the filament may be determined, for example, by measuring the electrical conductivity of the filament. Furthermore, a temperature sensor may be provided for detecting the ambient temperature. In this case, the ambient temperature may also be part of the standard printing conditions as a set value or a set range. A "sensor unit" in this respect means in particular a unit configured to record at least one characteristic variable and / or physical property. The recording may be performed actively, for example by generating and transmitting an electrical measurement signal, or may be performed passively, for example by detecting a change in the property of a sensor component. A sensor unit may be selected as deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art.

[0031] The sensor unit may have at least one position sensor designed to detect the alignment of the printed board and connected to the control and / or regulating unit. The control and / or regulating unit is configured to monitor the alignment of the printed board. The position sensor is preferably arranged directly on the printed board. The position sensor is in particular used to perform a leveling process. However, the position sensor may also detect the position of the printed board without contact. The alignment of the printed board may preferably be checked and possibly adapted to the printing operation. Preferably, the printed board can be easily removed manually and / or stopped in a defined position. The position sensor is in particular used to check the correct position of the printed board.

[0032] Furthermore, the sensor unit may have an error print sensor designed to record the at least one dental appliance currently being printed during printing and connected to the control and / or adjustment unit. The control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to recognize a relative movement of some parts of the at least one dental appliance currently being recorded with respect to other parts of the at least one dental appliance currently being recorded. The control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to stop the printing operation if a relative movement is recognized. This allows a particularly targeted detection of the model movement to avoid printing errors. The at least one error print sensor is preferably composed of a camera or the like. The at least one error print sensor may be designed identically to the at least one stop sensor and may in particular comprise the same components as the at least one stop sensor. The control and / or adjustment unit is preferably designed to activate the at least one error print sensor when the printing operation starts. The control and / or adjustment unit is preferably designed to deactivate the at least one error print sensor when the printing operation stops. For example, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to at least partially output the error notification as a color change of the lighting unit. For example, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to at least partially output the error notification as a notification on at least one display of the display unit and / or on at least one touch screen display. This provides the advantage of early detection of misprints due to filament breakage of the printed model.

[0033] Furthermore, the sensor unit may have an erroneous print sensor designed to record the at least one dental appliance during printing and connected to the control and / or adjustment unit. The control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to detect a mismatch between the shape of the at least one dental appliance currently being printed and the digital model of the at least one dental appliance to be printed. Furthermore, the erroneous print sensor may be designed to record the at least one dental appliance currently being printed during printing and connected to the control and / or adjustment unit. The control and / or adjustment unit may output a video of the currently printed dental appliance during printing via the display unit with a time-lapse function. For example, the control and / or adjustment unit outputs a video of the currently printed dental appliance with a time-lapse function of up to 5 minutes, preferably up to 2 minutes, during printing via the display unit, preferably a display and / or a touch screen display. This provides the advantage of being able to get an overview of the printing process.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, it is contemplated that the dental printing system may support and / or provide augmented reality. The sensor unit may comprise at least one board sensor designed to detect the position of the board and connected to the control and / or regulation unit. The control and / or regulation unit may be configured to recognize when the print head is removed from the board or when the board is suddenly moved. Preferably, the board sensor is configured to detect when the model is not adhered and printing is taking place in the air. In such a case, the printing operation must be stopped. Preferably, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to recognize the separation of the print head from the board and / or the sudden movement of the board. The control and / or regulation unit is configured to stop the printing operation when a threshold value for the separation of the print head from the board is exceeded or when a sudden movement of the board is recognized. Preferably, the control and / or regulation unit recognizes a sudden movement of the board or of the print head by comparing the separation of the print head from the board at any given time with previous separations of the print head from the board, in particular with previous separations always within the same time interval, and comparing the obtained difference with a threshold value. This provides the advantage that printing errors due to violent movements relative to the 3D filament printing device can be recognized early. Also, printing can be stopped early in the event of violent movements relative to the 3D filament printing device. Alternatively or additionally, in particular the 3D filament printing device may have a flexible printing bed. In particular it is conceivable that the printing bed is designed to be mechanically, pneumatically or electrically deformable. In this way, the printing bed may be deformed, for example, in order to discard the printed dental instrument. For this purpose, the printing bed may have, for example, a deformable film.

[0035] The at least one control and / or regulation unit may also be designed to detect the amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit and to display the remaining amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit via the display unit. Preferably, the control and / or regulation unit is designed to display the remaining amount of filament in the at least one filament storage unit at least temporarily via the display unit, in particular a touch screen display. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the control and / or regulation unit is configured to compare the remaining amount of filament with the amount of filament required for the currently printed tool.

[0036] It is also proposed that the controlling and / or regulating unit is designed to output the printing progress of the at least one dental instrument via the display unit by means of a progress bar, whereby the printing progress of the 3D filament printing device can be easily checked. For example, the progress bar indicates which steps have already been completed and which steps have not yet been completed. Alternatively, the progress bar may be configured as a percentage indication.

[0037] The 3D filament printing device may have a marking unit connected to the control and / or adjustment unit. The control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to control and / or adjust the marking unit during printing of the at least one dental appliance in order to mark the at least one dental appliance. The marking of the model may be directly formed and provided via the computing unit, in particular via a slicer that adapts the CAD model. Alternatively, the control and / or adjustment unit may be designed to control and / or adjust the print head during printing of the at least one dental appliance in order to mark the at least one dental appliance via a recess in the outer surface of the at least one dental appliance. This provides the advantage that the marking of the at least one dental appliance can be performed.

[0038] It is further conceivable that the control and / or adjustment unit and / or the computing unit are designed to output, via the display unit or additional display means, the state of the printed digital model of the at least one dental appliance by a color change.

[0039] The 3D filament printing apparatus may also comprise a housing unit having at least one air supply slot, in which at least one filter element designed to be replaceable is arranged. Preferably, the housing unit defines at least one print space of the 3D filament printing apparatus. Preferably, the housing unit is configured to receive at least the print head, the print table and the control and / or adjustment unit of the 3D filament printing apparatus. Preferably, a door and / or a flap is arranged on the housing unit and is used to allow access to the print space. This provides the advantage that the 3D filament printing apparatus can be protected from dust at the ventilation points. The 3D filament printing apparatus needs to be protected especially from external dust. A passage may additionally be provided for supplying air into the housing unit. In particular, the supplied air should not directly hit the model to be printed. Furthermore, an overpressure may be generated in the print space to prevent uncontrolled intrusion of polluted outside air. The exhaust volume needs to be configured to allow the use of an exhaust filter and controlled by a sensor.

[0040] The 3D filament printing apparatus may comprise a housing unit having at least one rotatable hood unit, and the printing board may be accessible via said hood unit. Preferably, the hood unit is arranged on the upper side of the housing unit. This allows the printing platform to be protected. Preferably, a cover fan is arranged in the hood unit. Preferably, the 3D filament printing apparatus has at least one sensor unit, the sensor unit having a fan sensor designed to detect the rotation speed of the cover fan of the housing unit and connected to the control and / or regulation unit. The control and / or regulation unit is designed to output a failure of the cover fan via the display unit. With the above design, overheating of the 3D filament printing apparatus can be avoided. The rotatable hood unit allows a reliable power supply, especially to the cover fan. Alternatively or additionally, electrical components may be arranged in the hood unit. In this case, no lines connected to the hood unit are required.

[0041] Alternatively, the housing unit may be provided with only the fan in the housing base, allowing the fan to be hardwired. The hood unit may be designed to be as flat as possible, particularly to the extent that it can be designed as a removable cover. It is also conceivable that the filament feeder is located in the housing base rather than in the hood unit.

[0042] The 3D filament printing apparatus may comprise a sensor unit, the sensor unit comprising at least one fan sensor designed to detect the rotation speed of a cover fan of the housing unit and connected to the control and / or regulation unit. The control and / or regulation unit may be designed to detect a failure of the cover fan. The fan sensor may be used in particular to detect the function of the cover fan. The control and / or regulation unit may output a notification in particular if the cover fan is not working properly or is not fully connected. This allows a uniform temperature in the printing space. In particular, the cover fan allows the filament to be dried using waste heat, in particular from the printing space.

[0043] It is further proposed that the dental printing system comprises an operator terminal with a computing unit. Preferably, the operator terminal further comprises an operating unit. In this context, "operator terminal" means in particular a device for direct or indirect interaction with an operator. Preferably, it means in particular a device assigned to an operator. Preferably, it means a mobile device for communicating with an operator. There are various devices as operator terminals that a person skilled in the art considers appropriate, but these in particular mean computers, smartphones, tablet PCs, wearable computers, smart watches and / or smart glasses. Smart glasses are, for example, AR glasses or peripheral head mounted displays (PHMDs). Computers, in particular PCs or laptops, or tablet computers are particularly suitable as operator terminals. The operator terminal is preferably directly connected to the 3D filament printing device, for example, wired via USB or LAN cable, wireless via BLUETOOTH or direct Wi-Fi connection, or indirectly via a local network or the like. Preferably, the operator terminal and the 3D filament printing device each comprise a communication unit. This "communication unit" means in particular a unit configured to provide wireless communication, in particular a communication connection, to an additional device. Preferably, the communication unit has at least one interface for communicating with the additional device. The communication unit means in particular a unit configured to exchange data. The communication unit in particular has at least one information input and at least one information output. Preferably, the communication unit has at least two information inputs and at least two information outputs. The at least one information input and the at least one information output are configured to be connected to at least one physical system, in particular an operator terminal, a 3D filament printing device, a router and a server. This is preferably an interface between at least two physical systems, for example a 3D filament printing device and an operator terminal.Various communication units are conceivable as deemed appropriate by those skilled in the art, which are understood to mean in particular wireless interfaces such as BLUETOOTH, WLAN, ZIGBEE, NFC, RFID, GSM, LTE or UMTS, as well as wired interfaces such as USB ports, CAN bus interfaces, RS485 interfaces, Ethernet interfaces, optical interfaces, KNX interfaces and / or power line interfaces. This has the advantage that it is possible to provide a particularly adaptable dental printing system. In particular, a powerful computing unit can be provided without high costs for the 3D filament printing device in the process.

[0044] Digital assistance functions may additionally be executed on the operator terminal. Furthermore, additional model creators may be provided as part of the software or may be called externally if necessary. In particular chatbots may be integrated into the software. It is also possible to remotely control the 3D filament printing device outside the network via an application, in particular if the operator terminal is designed as a smartphone.

[0045] The present invention also proposes a 3D filament printing device for a dental printing system. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing dental instruments, in particular dental models, impression trays and / or aligners, by means of a dental printing device, in which in at least one conversion step a CAD file of the dental instrument is converted by a computing unit into a printing command and in at least one sending step the printing command is sent to a 3D filament printing device. It is proposed that in the printing step the printing command is executed by the 3D filament printing device and the desired dental instrument is printed, and in at least one checking step the computing unit checks whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument of the 3D filament printing device. Preferably, in the checking step, it is checked whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument of the 3D filament printing device. The standard printing conditions are specific to both the 3D filament printing device and the dental instrument to be printed. The standard printing conditions are used to compare the compatibility of the 3D filament printing device with the CAD file. Designing by the method of the invention has the advantage in particular that the printability of the CAD model can be guaranteed. In particular, it has the advantage that an uncomplicated and / or intuitive operation is achieved, and that printing initialization can be performed quickly.The design according to the invention can be easily operated even by a person who is not skilled in printing system technology.

[0046] It is further proposed that in at least one selection step, a print parameter package designed for printing dental appliances, in particular in the form of different print parameter definitions, is selected and applied by the computing unit depending on the print job. The print parameter package, in particular in the form of different print parameter definitions, is preferably retrieved from a storage unit. Preferably, the selection step is performed before the printing operation, and a graphical and / or visual selection mask with at least three options of dental appliances, in particular dental models, impression trays and aligners, is displayed to the operator for selection via the display unit on at least one touch screen display. In particular, when a CAD file is loaded by the operator, he is asked which type of dental appliance is to be printed using the CAD file. The selection mask preferably includes no more than 10 selection options at the same time, preferably no more than 8, particularly preferably no more than 6. Preferably, the selection mask is used to directly select the desired dental appliance, preferably without requiring any other input regarding printing, such as print parameters. A multi-stage selection mask may be designed and may have several selection levels. Preferably, in the case of multi-level selection, at each selection level, up to 8, particularly preferably up to 6, preferably up to 5, preferably up to 4 selection options are set. This has the advantage that a fast, simple and intuitive operation of the 3D printing system is possible. In particular, questions regarding complex printer-specific parameters can be omitted. The 3D printing system is generally preferably operated in particular by a dental technician, dentist or dental assistant, i.e. does not presuppose complex knowledge of 3D filament printing devices.

[0047] It is further proposed that the printing instructions are checked by the computing unit in an additional checking step for compatibility with the 3D filament printing device and / or for the presence of errors. Advantageously, the computing unit corrects the printing instructions in the event of errors and / or compatibility problems, in particular in an optional correction step. This makes it possible in particular to avoid printing errors, as a result of which working times can be reduced.

[0048] It is proposed that the method includes a cleaning step in which the filament is cleaned before the printing operation by the 3D filament printing device. During printing, it is important that the filament is as free of dust and dirt as possible. In dental laboratories, dust is often generated, especially due to manufacturing steps such as grinding and cutting, so it is important that the filament is stored dust-free or cleaned during use. This cleaning is performed in-line, i.e. by a cleaning unit located upstream of the actual melting process and inside which the filament is transported during printing. Cleaning can be performed using cleaning means and materials such as brushes or scrubbing techniques, for example in combination with suitable suction techniques and / or deionization to avoid electrostatic effects that may promote the adhesion of dust. Preferably, the cleaning unit is integrated into the 3D filament printing device, but it may also be located upstream and outside the 3D filament printing device. This makes it possible to achieve optimal printing results.

[0049] The dental printing system and / or 3D filament printing apparatus and / or method according to the present invention are not intended to be limited to the above applications and embodiments. In particular, the dental printing system and / or 3D filament printing apparatus and / or method according to the present invention may have many individual elements, components, units and method steps different from the number described in order to achieve the modes of operation described herein. Furthermore, in the ranges of values ​​given in this disclosure, values ​​within the limits described should also be considered as disclosed and can be used as needed.

[0050] Further advantages can be obtained from the following description of the drawings. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. The drawings, the description and the claims contain a number of feature combinations. A person skilled in the art will be able to consider the features individually and combine them to form suitable further combinations. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0051] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram showing a dental printing system according to the present invention, comprising a 3D filament printing device with a control and / or adjustment unit and an operator terminal device with a computing unit. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a 3D filament printing apparatus of a dental printing system having a control and / or adjustment unit, a filament storage unit and a print head. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flow chart of the operation of a dental printing system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0052] 1 shows a dental printing system including a 3D filament printing apparatus 10 that is configured to only print dental appliances 12, in particular dental models, impression trays and / or aligners. The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 is configured to only print dental and / or orthodontic appliances 12, where the dental and / or orthodontic appliances 12 are limited to dental models, impression trays and / or aligners.

[0053] The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 includes a housing unit 30. The housing unit 30 includes at least a substantially rectangular housing 42, and the housing 42 defines a printing space 44 of the 3D filament printing apparatus 10 on at least four sides. The housing unit 30 also includes a door 46 on the front, through which the printing space 44 can be accessed. The door 46 is rotatably attached to the housing 42. The housing unit 30 includes a rotatable hood unit 36, through which the printing board 38 can be accessed. The printing board 38 can be accessed through the hood unit 36. The hood unit 36 ​​is disposed on the upper side of the housing 42. The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 also includes a printing board 38. The printing board 38 is disposed in the printing space 44. The printing board 38 is movably attached. However, the printing board 38 may be designed to be fixed relative to the housing unit 30. The printing board 38 is designed to be height adjustable by an actuator or the like, although details are not shown. The printed circuit board 38 is height adjustable with respect to the bottom of the housing 42. The printed circuit board 38 is embodied, for example, as a rectangular metal plate. The printed circuit board 38 may be designed to be temperature controllable.

[0054] Furthermore, the housing unit 30 has at least one air supply slot 32 in which a replaceably designed filter element 34 is arranged. The air supply slot 32 is arranged, for example, in the rear wall of the housing 42. However, the air supply slot 32 may be arranged at another position as appropriate by a person skilled in the art. A fan 48 is arranged in the hood unit 36. The fan 48 is configured, during operation, to draw air through the air supply slot 32, to flow it into the printing space 44, and then to exhaust it through the hood unit 36. However, another air guide system may be provided as appropriate by a person skilled in the art.

[0055] The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 also has a filament storage unit 14 for receiving the filament 16. The filament storage unit 14 is configured to receive a roll of filament. The roll of filament is replaceably attached to a spindle of the filament storage unit 14, not shown in detail. In operation, the filament 16 is supplied to the print head 18 of the 3D filament printing apparatus 10 via the filament storage unit 14. For this purpose, the filament storage unit 14 has a transport mechanism, not shown in detail, capable of supplying the filament 16 to the print head 18. Alternatively or additionally, the print head 18 may be provided with a material inlet. The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 has a print head 18. The print head 18 is configured to melt the filament 16 and apply it, preferably, to a printing board 38. The print head 18 is movably guided relative to the housing unit 30. The print head 18 is movably guided in a plane parallel to the plane of the main area of ​​the printing board 38, for example via an actuator and a rail system. The print head 18 can be moved in a defined manner during operation via an actuator. The print head 18 may, for example, have a material inlet. The print head 18 also has a heating unit, such as a heating coil, and an extrusion nozzle 19. In this case, the extrusion nozzle 19 may be designed to be heated as well. Preferably, the heating unit is integrated into the extrusion nozzle 19.

[0056] The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 also comprises a control and / or regulation unit 20. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is used to control and / or regulate the operation of the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is used to control the components of the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. During operation, the control and / or regulation unit 20 is designed to drive the filament storage unit 14 to transport the filament 16 and to supply the filament 16 to the print head 18. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is also designed to control and / or regulate the output of the molten filament 16 from the print head 18. In this case, the control and / or regulation unit 20 also controls the temperature of the filament 16 in the print head 18. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is also configured to move the print head 18 based on the printing command to manufacture the dental appliance 12. For this purpose, the control and / or regulation unit 20 drives the actuators of the print head 18. Furthermore, the control and / or regulation unit 20 may control the temperature of the printing plate 38 and move the printing plate 38. The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 also has an operator interface 50, implemented for example as a touch screen display on the housing 42. The operator interface 50 is coupled to the control and / or regulation unit 20. The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 can be operated at least in part via the operator interface 50. The operator interface 50 is configured as an HMI, i.e. human machine interface.

[0057] The dental printing system further comprises a computing unit 24 configured to convert the CAD file of the dental appliance 12 into printing instructions. The computing unit 24 comprises a storage unit 26 in which printing parameter packages, one for printing each individual dental appliance 12, are stored. Each printing parameter package is stored in the form of different printing parameter definitions. The computing unit 24 is configured to use the printing parameter packages depending on the print job.

[0058] The dental printing system also includes an operator terminal 40 having a computing unit 24. The operator terminal 40 is embodied, for example, as a laptop or a tablet. If designed as a tablet, for example, an application is installed in the operator terminal 40 and used as an interface for an operator. However, the operator terminal 40 may have any other design that a person skilled in the art considers appropriate. In this case, the computing unit 24 is embodied as a processor of the operator terminal 40.

[0059] Furthermore, the dental printing system comprises an operating unit 28 for operating the computing unit 24, which is designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance 12 based on a user input. The operating unit 28 is configured separately from the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. The operating unit 28 comprises an input device directly connected to the computing unit 24. The input device is configured, for example, as a keyboard or a touchpad of the operator terminal 40. However, alternatively or additionally, the input device may be configured as a computer mouse, a touchscreen display and / or a lever. If the operator terminal 40 is designed as a tablet, the input device is configured in particular as a touchscreen display. The dental printing system also comprises a display unit 22. The operating unit 28 is connected to the display unit 22. The display unit 22 is configured as a display of the operator terminal 40. The display unit 22 is designed to display at least three options of the dental appliance 12, in particular a dental model, an impression tray and an aligner, in at least one operating state, in particular before or after a printing operation, and the user performs user input by clicking and / or touching one of the options displayed on the display unit 22.

[0060] The computing unit 24 is designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance 12, in particular based on a graphical and / or visual selection mask, in response to at least one desired dental appliance 12 in the digital model to be printed of the at least one dental appliance 12. The computing unit 24 is configured to display a graphical and / or visual selection mask including at least three options of dental appliances 12, in particular dental models, impression trays and aligners, in at least one operating state, before or after the printing operation, for the operator to select via the display unit 22. The computing unit 24 is designed to ask the operator, when the CAD file is loaded, which type of dental appliance 12 is to be printed using the CAD file. By using the selection mask, the desired dental appliance 12 can be selected directly, without requiring other inputs related to printing, such as print parameters. Such a selection loads a print parameter package.

[0061] The computing unit 24 is also configured to check before each printing operation whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument 12 currently being printed by the 3D filament printing device 10. The computing unit 24 is configured to check whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument 12 of the 3D filament printing device 10. The standard printing conditions are specific to both the 3D filament printing device 10 and the dental instrument 12 to be printed. The standard printing conditions are used to compare the compatibility of the 3D filament printing device 10 with the CAD file. The standard printing conditions can be used to check whether the CAD file can be printed. The computing unit 24 is configured to correct or supplement the CAD file or output a correction suggestion to the operator when a mismatch is found between at least one parameter of the CAD file of the at least one dental instrument 12 currently being printed and the standard printing conditions for the at least one dental instrument 12. In this case, the computing unit 24 is configured to automatically process the CAD file and / or to transfer the data in a form modified by the slicer during processing. In this case, the data may be modified completely automatically or may be allowed by a question to the operator. The computing unit 24 is also designed to initiate a change in the color of the display unit 22 in case of a mismatch between at least one parameter of the CAD file and the at least one dental instrument 12 and the standard printing conditions of the at least one dental instrument 12. For example, only the color of a partial area of ​​the display unit 22 may be changed. Thus, for example, a colored frame may be displayed in case of a mismatch. Alternatively or additionally, the display unit 22 may be equipped with a status light, which for example lights up in case of a mismatch.

[0062] The computing unit 24 is designed to check the presence or absence of data errors in the CAD file containing the digital model of the at least one dental tool 12 currently to be printed. In this case, a data error occurs, for example, if the model in the CAD file is not closed, in particular if it is not based. A data error also occurs if the model is not printable, for example because it does not have a flat substrate. The computing unit 24 is configured to check the shape and polygonal structure of the model contained in the CAD file. Furthermore, the computing unit 24 is designed to check whether the CAD file of the at least one dental tool 12 currently to be printed is open or closed. In this case, the computing unit 24 is designed to check whether the model in the CAD file of the dental tool 12 is open or closed. If the model is open, a closing operation may be proposed, for example, or the model may be closed automatically. The model in the CAD file is a surface model made up of a number of interconnected polygonal surfaces that constitute the visible outer surface of the dental model. If the model is not closed, there are no faces between the individual polygons, in particular the outer surface is not completely closed. This solid model is therefore open.

[0063] The computing unit 24 is further designed to check whether the alignment of the printed model of the at least one dental instrument 12 corresponds to the alignment recorded in the standard conditions of the at least one dental instrument 12. The computing unit 24 is designed to check whether the alignment of the largest base surface of the printed model corresponds to the subsequent rest surface on the printing board 38. In this case, the computing unit 24 is configured to check whether the printed model actually has a rest surface on the printing board 38 and whether the rest surface on the printing board 38 corresponds to the base surface configured for the printing operation. The printed model is preferably aligned such that the plane of the main area of ​​the printed model is at least substantially parallel to the printing board 38 and the printed model is flat on the printing board 38. The computing unit 24 is designed to adapt the alignment of the model to the standard printing conditions if a discrepancy is found between the alignment of the model of the at least one dental instrument 12 and the standard printing conditions of the at least one dental instrument 12. For this purpose, the computing unit 24 is configured to process the CAD model. For example, the computing unit 24 can perform an automatic orientation of the model when loaded. A model rotated by 90 degrees, i.e. lying backside, can be automatically rotated so that it "slides" parallel on the base surface. The computing unit 24 is configured to automatically virtually place the model on the printed circuit board 38 in a collision-free manner and to perform an automatic collision check during the placement. The computing unit 24 may also suggest a collision-free placement to the operator, who may then virtually move the model on the printed circuit board only laterally in a collision-free manner. The computing unit 24 is configured to place the CAD model flat on the printed circuit board 38.

[0064] The computing unit 24 is further configured to check whether the print instructions are compatible with standard print conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument 12 of the 3D filament printing apparatus 10 before each printing operation. The print instructions are generated from the CAD model by the computing unit 24, in particular by a slicer running on the computing unit 24, after the computing unit 24 authorizes the CAD model. The computing unit 24 is configured to check the print instructions for compatibility with the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. The computing unit 24 is also designed to initiate a change in color of the display unit 22 if a mismatch is detected between at least one parameter of the print instructions of the at least one dental instrument 12 and the standard print conditions for the at least one dental instrument 12.

[0065] The control and / or regulation unit 20 is designed to check, during operation, in particular after a selected print parameter package has been sent to the 3D filament printing device 10, whether the filament type required by the print parameter package of the model to be printed of the at least one dental appliance 12 corresponds to the filament type of the filament 16 in the filament storage unit 14. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is also designed to detect the amount of filament 16 in the at least one filament storage unit 14 and display the remaining amount of filament 16 in the at least one filament storage unit 14 via the display unit 22. In this case, the control and / or regulation unit 20 is designed to temporarily display the remaining amount of filament 16 in the filament storage unit 14 via the display unit 22, in particular before a printing operation, so that it can be checked whether the filament 16 is sufficient. The computing unit 24 can preferably inquire, via the control and / or regulation unit 20, about the filament type and the remaining amount of the filament 16 currently arranged in the filament storage unit 14. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is connected to a sensor unit 64 and can monitor the filament storage unit 14 via the sensor unit 64. The sensor unit 64 is preferably also used to monitor the print head 18 and the print board 38.

[0066] The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is also designed to check whether the print head 18 required by the print parameter package of the model to be printed of the at least one dental instrument 12 corresponds to the print head 18 to be used. The 3D filament printing device 10 is compatible with the defined print heads 18, each configured for a different application, in particular with a different fineness. This provides the advantage that the currently used print head 18 can be checked in advance.

[0067] The 3D filament printing device 10 comprises a sensor unit 64. The sensor unit 64 comprises a number of sensors arranged to monitor the printing process. The sensor unit 64 comprises an air humidity and / or filament moisture sensor 66 connected to the control and / or regulation unit 20, at least one of which is arranged to check whether the measured humidity or moisture corresponds to a defined humidity or moisture value. In this case, for example, in case of a humidity or moisture mismatch, the humidity or moisture value may be adapted by controlling ventilation. Alternatively or additionally, the printing process may be adapted, for example, by adapting the printing parameters to the changed humidity or moisture. Alternatively or additionally, in case of a humidity or moisture mismatch, the printing process may be terminated or at least interrupted.

[0068] The sensor unit 64 also has a stop sensor 72 designed to detect the alignment of the printed circuit board 38 and connected to the control and / or regulating unit 20. The control and / or regulating unit 20 is configured to monitor the alignment of the printed circuit board 38. The stop sensor 72 is arranged directly on the printed circuit board 38. However, the stop sensor 72 may also detect the position of the printed circuit board 38 without contact. By means of the stop sensor 72, the control and / or regulating unit 20 can check the alignment of the printed circuit board 38 and possibly adapt the alignment to the printing operation.

[0069] The sensor unit 64 has an erroneous print sensor 74 designed to record the at least one dental appliance 12 currently being printed during printing and connected to the control and / or adjustment unit 20. The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is designed to recognize a relative movement of some parts of the at least one dental appliance 12 currently being recorded with respect to other parts of the at least one dental appliance 12 currently being recorded. The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is designed to stop the printing operation if a relative movement is recognized. This allows the movement of the model to be targeted and printing errors to be avoided. The erroneous print sensor 74 is composed of a camera or the like. Furthermore, the erroneous print sensor 74 is designed to record the dental appliance 12 during printing. The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is designed to detect a discrepancy between the shape of the at least one dental appliance 12 currently being printed and the printed digital model of the at least one dental appliance 12. Furthermore, the erroneous print sensor 74 may monitor the at least one dental appliance 12 currently being printed during printing. The control and / or adjustment unit 20 may, during printing, output a video of the currently printed dental appliance 12 via the display unit 22 using a time-lapse function. For example, the control and / or adjustment unit 20, during printing, outputs a video of the currently printed dental appliance 12 for up to 5 minutes, preferably up to 2 minutes, via the display unit 22 using a time-lapse function.

[0070] The sensor unit 64 also comprises a printed circuit board sensor 76 designed to detect the position of the printed circuit board 38 and connected to the control and / or regulation unit 20. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is configured to recognize when the print head 18 is removed from the printed circuit board 38 or when the printed circuit board 38 is suddenly moved. The printed circuit board sensor 76 is configured to detect when the model is not adhered and printing is taking place in the air. In such a case, the printing operation must be stopped. Furthermore, the control and / or regulation unit 20 is designed to recognize the separation of the print head 18 from the printed circuit board 38 and / or the sudden movement of the printed circuit board 38. Furthermore, the control and / or regulation unit 20 is configured to stop the printing operation when a threshold value for the separation of the print head 18 from the printed circuit board 38 is exceeded or when the control and / or regulation unit 20 recognizes the sudden movement of the printed circuit board 38.

[0071] The sensor unit 64 also comprises a fan sensor 78 designed to detect the rotation speed of the fan 48 of the housing unit 30 and connected to the control and / or regulation unit 20. The control and / or regulation unit 20 is designed to detect a failure of the fan 48.

[0072] The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is also designed to output the printing progress of the at least one dental appliance 12 via the display unit 22 by means of a progress bar. For example, the progress bar indicates which steps have already been completed and which steps are not yet completed. Alternatively, the progress bar may be implemented as a percentage indication.

[0073] The 3D filament printing apparatus 10 may have a marking unit connected to a control and / or adjustment unit 20. The control and / or adjustment unit 20 is designed to control and / or adjust the marking unit during printing of the at least one dental appliance 12 in order to mark the at least one dental appliance 12. The marking of the model can be formed and provided directly via the computing unit 24, in particular via a slicer that adapts a CAD model. Alternatively, the control and / or adjustment unit 20 may be designed to control and / or adjust the print head 18 during printing of the at least one dental appliance 12 in order to mark the at least one dental appliance 12 via a recess in the outer surface of the at least one dental appliance 12. This provides the advantage that the at least one dental appliance 12 can be marked.

[0074] Each print parameter package contains, for example, the type of filament, the type of print head, the print speed, the print head temperature, the print bed temperature, the air humidity and / or the alignment of the digital model of the dental tool 12. Depending on the type of filament required for the printed model of the at least one dental tool 12, the print parameter package contains a magnification in at least one axis of the printed model. This magnification is configured to compensate for the shrinkage behavior of the filament 16. The magnification is used to compensate for the shrinkage of the printed model due to the shrinkage of the filament 16 by enlarging the printed model with respect to the CAD model according to at least one magnification. The magnification is also used for shrinkage compensation. The magnification of the print parameter package is specifically adapted to the filament 16 stored in the print parameter package. The print parameter package contains a magnification of the X-axis, a magnification of the Y-axis and a magnification of the Z-axis separately. In this case, the magnification of the X-axis corresponds to the magnification of the Y-axis. In contrast, the magnification of the Z-axis is lower than the magnification of the X-axis and the Y-axis. The magnification is automatically applied with the print parameter package during the printing operation. In this case, the magnification ensures a volumetric magnification change.

[0075] 3 shows a flow chart of a method for producing dental appliances 12, in particular dental models, impression trays and / or aligners, by means of a dental printing system. The method describes the operation of a dental printing system according to the invention. The sequence described below is an example of a printing process for dental appliances 12.

[0076] In this method, in a first loading step 52, a CAD file is loaded by the computing unit 24 into the operator terminal 40. The CAD file may be transmitted to the operator terminal 40 from a server, for example, via a network, or may be loaded, for example, via a USB stick. For example, software is executed and operated on the operator terminal 40. Then, a selection step 54 is performed. In the selection step 54, depending on the print job, a print parameter package designed for printing the dental appliance 12 is selected and applied by the computing unit 24, in particular in the form of default values ​​of different print parameters. In the selection step 54, the user receives, via the display unit 22, a graphical and / or visual selection mask, which includes, for example, three options of the dental appliance 12, in particular a dental model, an impression tray and an aligner, for selection. In the selection mask, the operator can select which kind of dental appliance 12 should be printed using the CAD file. Once the dental appliance 12 has been selected, the computing unit 24 loads one of the print parameter packages stored in the storage unit 26 for printing the desired dental appliance 12 based on the user input. The selection mask may be designed to include multiple stages, e.g., to have multiple selection levels for the selection of different splints, aligners, bite trays, etc. It is further conceivable that the selection mask may further include selection options related to the currently installed hardware. In this case, the operator may preselect, for example, which print head is to be installed in the 3D filament printing device 10 or which filament is currently inserted. This is followed by a verification step 70 in which the computing unit 24 checks the CAD file for errors and optimizations. In the verification step 70, the computing unit 24 checks whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with at least one dental tool 12 of the 3D filament printing device 10. In this case, the verification is performed depending on the user input, in particular the selection of the dental tool 12.For example, in the checking step 70, it may already be checked whether a suitable filament 16 is arranged in the filament storage unit 14 and whether sufficient filament 16 for the printing operation is arranged in the filament storage unit 14. In the checking step 70, using the computing unit 24, it is checked whether the model of the CAD file of the dental tool 12 is closed or open. If the model is open, for example, a closing operation may be proposed or the model may be automatically closed. Furthermore, in the checking step 70, the computing unit 24 is designed to check whether the alignment of the model to be printed of the at least one dental tool 12 corresponds to the alignment recorded in the standard condition for the at least one dental tool 12. In this case, the computing unit 24 checks whether the alignment of the largest base surface of the model to be printed corresponds to the subsequent mounting surface on the printing board 38. The computing unit 24 can in particular check whether the model to be printed actually has a mounting surface on the printing board 38 and whether the mounting surface on the printing board 38 corresponds to the base surface configured for the printing operation. In a next interrogation step 80, the errors identified in the checking step 70 are displayed to the operator and the operator is asked whether to carry out an automatic correction of the errors. In this case, the operator can either terminate or at least interrupt the printing operation and carry out at least a partial correction of the errors himself or can confirm the automatic correction of the errors by the computing unit 24. If an automatic correction is confirmed, the interrogation step 80 is followed by a correction step 82, in which the errors in the CAD file are automatically corrected by the computing unit 24. This can then be followed by, for example, an optional repetition of the checking step 70. After the correction of the CAD file, it is also conceivable that the computing unit 24 can offer the operator a proposal for a collision-free arrangement of the dental instruments 12 on the printing board 38. This is particularly advantageous when several dental instruments 12 are printed at the same time. In this case, the operator can in particular adapt the arrangement by virtually moving the models on the printing board 38 only laterally in such a way that no collisions occur.However, preferably, a conversion step 68 is performed accordingly, in which the CAD file of the dental instrument 12 is converted into print instructions by the computing unit 24. In this case, the CAD file is converted into print instructions by a slicer software running on the computing unit 24 in combination with a print parameter package. After the conversion step 68, the print instructions may be checked again by the computing unit 24 in an additional checking step 84. The print instructions are checked by the computing unit 24 for compatibility with the 3D filament printing device 10. Optionally, an additional correction step 86 is then performed, in which the computing unit 24 corrects the print instructions in case of errors and / or compatibility problems. This is followed by a sending step 58, in which the print instructions are sent to the 3D filament printing device 10. In the sending step 58, the print instructions are sent from the operator terminal 40 to the 3D filament printing device 10. Then, in an additional reading step 60, the print instructions are read into the 3D filament printing device 10. The printing instructions are then executed in a printing step 62 to print the desired dental appliance 12. During the printing step 62, in particular a cleaning step 88 is performed to clean the filament 16 before the printing operation by the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. For this purpose, the 3D filament printing apparatus 10 has a cleaning unit 90 as shown, which is arranged between the filament storage unit 14 and the print head 18. The cleaning is therefore performed inline by the cleaning unit 90, which is located upstream of the actual melting process and through which the filament 16 is transported during printing. The cleaning can be performed using cleaning means and materials such as brushes or scrubbing techniques, for example in combination with suitable suction techniques and / or deionization to avoid electrostatic effects that may promote the adhesion of dust. The cleaning unit 90 is integrated into the 3D filament printing apparatus 10, but it may also be arranged upstream and configured separately from the 3D filament printing apparatus 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 10: 3D filament printing device 12: Dental instrument 14: Filament storage unit 16: Filament 18: Print head 19: Extrusion nozzle 20: Control and / or adjustment unit 22: Display unit 24: Calculation unit 26: Memory unit 28: Operation unit 30: Housing unit 32: Air supply slot 34: Filter element 36: Hood unit 38: Print board 40: Operator terminal 42: Housing 44: Print space 46: Door 48: Fan 50: Operator interface 52: Reading step 54: Selection step 58: Sending step 60: Reading step 62: Printing step 64: Sensor unit 66: Air humidity and / or filament moisture sensor 68: Conversion step 70: Checking step 72: Stop sensor 74: Misprint sensor 76: Print board sensor 78: Fan sensor 80: Questioning step 82: Correcting step 84: Checking step 86: Correcting step 88: Cleaning step 90: Cleaning unit

Claims

1. 1. A dental printing system comprising: A 3D filament printing apparatus (10) used only for printing at least one of impression trays and aligners for dental appliances (12), the 3D filament printing apparatus (10) having a filament storage unit (14) for receiving a filament (16), at least one print head (18), and a control and / or adjustment unit (20); A display unit (22); a computing unit (24) configured to convert the CAD file of the dental instrument (12) into print instructions and having at least one storage unit (26); Equipped with the computing unit (24) is configured to verify, before each printing operation, whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument (12) of the 3D filament printing device (10); a print parameter package is stored in the storage unit in the form of different print parameter definitions for printing each individual dental instrument, and the computing unit is configured to use the print parameter package depending on the print job. Dental printing system.

2. the computing unit (24) is configured to verify, before each printing operation, whether the printing command complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument (12) of the 3D filament printing device (10); 10. The dental printing system of claim 1.

3. the computing unit (24) is configured to at least one of modifying the CAD file, supplementing the CAD file, and outputting modification suggestions to an operator when a mismatch is found between at least one parameter of the CAD file of the at least one dental instrument (12) and the standard printing condition for the at least one dental instrument (12); 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the computing unit (24) is designed to initiate a change in color of the display unit (22) when a discrepancy is detected between at least one parameter and / or print instructions of the CAD file of the at least one dental instrument (12) and the standard print conditions for the at least one dental instrument (12).

3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the computing unit (24) is designed to check for data errors in the CAD file containing the digital model to be printed of the at least one dental instrument (12); 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. the computing unit (24) is designed to verify whether the CAD file of the at least one dental instrument (12) is open or closed; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. the computing unit (24) is designed to verify whether an alignment of a printed model of at least one dental appliance (12) corresponds to an alignment recorded in the standard printing condition for the at least one dental appliance (12); 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. the computing unit (24) is designed to adapt the alignment of the model of the at least one dental instrument (12) to the standard printing conditions if a discrepancy is found between the alignment of the model of the at least one dental instrument (12) and the standard printing conditions for the at least one dental instrument (12).

3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. an operating unit (28) for operating the computing unit (24), the computing unit (24) being designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance (12) based on a user input; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The operation unit (28) is configured separately from the 3D filament printing device (10).

10. The dental printing system of claim 9.

11. the computing unit (24) is designed to load a print parameter package for printing at least one desired dental appliance (12) according to the at least one desired dental appliance (12) based on a selection mask in a digital model of the at least one dental appliance (12) to be printed; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

12. the control and / or regulation unit (20) is designed to verify whether a print head required by a print parameter package for a printed model of at least one dental instrument (12) corresponds to the print head (18) used; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

13. the 3D filament printing apparatus (10) comprises a sensor unit (64) having at least one sensor (66) for air humidity and / or filament moisture connected to the control and / or regulation unit (20), the control and / or regulation unit (20) being designed to check whether the measured humidity or moisture corresponds to a specified humidity or moisture value; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

14. the control and / or regulation unit (20) is designed to output a printing progress of the at least one dental instrument (12) via the display unit (22) by means of a progress bar; 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

15. The system further includes an operator terminal device (40) having the arithmetic unit (24), 3. A dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

16. 3D filament printing device (10) for a dental printing system according to claim 1 or 2.

17. A method for producing a dental instrument (12) by means of the dental printing system of claim 1 or 2, comprising: In at least one conversion step (68), the CAD file of the dental instrument (12) is converted by a computing unit (24) into print instructions; In at least one transmitting step (58), the printing instructions are transmitted to a 3D filament printing device (10); In a printing step (62), the printing instructions are executed by the 3D filament printing device (10) to print a desired dental instrument (12); In at least one verification step (70), the computing unit (24) verifies whether the CAD file complies with standard printing conditions associated with the at least one dental instrument (12) of the 3D filament printing device (10). method.

18. In at least one selection step (54), a print parameter package designed for printing the dental instrument (12) is selected and applied by the computing unit (24) in response to a print job.

20. The method of claim 17.

19. the printing instructions are verified by the computing unit (24) in a verification step (84) for compatibility with the 3D filament printing device (10) and / or for the presence of errors.

20. The method of claim 17.

20. In a cleaning step (88), the filament (16) is cleaned prior to a printing operation by the 3D filament printing apparatus (10).

20. The method of claim 17.

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