Three-dimensional shaping device and plasticized material discharge device

Abstract

To provide a three-dimensional molding device capable of accurately changing a discharge quantity.SOLUTION: A three-dimensional molding device comprises a plasticizing section, a nozzle for discharging a plasticizing material from a nozzle opening toward a stage, a discharge quantity adjustment section which is provided in a flow path through which the plasticizing material flows and is connected to the nozzle opening to adjust the discharge quantity of the plasticizing material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of the opening formed in the flow path, a pressure adjustment section which adjusts the pressure in the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge quantity adjustment section and the nozzle opening, and a control section which controls the discharge quantity adjustment section and the pressure adjustment section. When the discharge quantity is changed from a first discharge quantity to a second discharge quantity, the control section controls the pressure adjustment section to adjust the pressure in the flow path after changing the area of the opening by controlling the discharge quantity adjustment section. The second discharge quantity is a discharge quantity when the plasticizing material is being discharged from the nozzle opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a three-dimensional shaping device and a plasticized material discharge device.

Background Art

[0002] A three-dimensional shaping device is known that shapes a three-dimensional object by discharging and laminating a plasticized material and curing it.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a three-dimensional shaping device including a flow path through which a molten material flows, a nozzle that communicates with the flow path and discharges the molten material from a discharge port, and a flow path adjustment mechanism provided in the flow path. In Patent Document 1, the flow rate of the molten material flowing through the flow path is adjusted by the rotation of a butterfly valve.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the three-dimensional shaping device as described above, it has been difficult to accurately change the discharge amount due to the time lag caused by the flow path length from the butterfly valve to the discharge port and the pressure fluctuation of the flow path that occurs when adjusting the butterfly valve.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the three-dimensional shaping device according to the present invention is a plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material, a nozzle having a nozzle opening, and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage, A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure in the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; and includes When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure in the flow path. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening.

[0007] One aspect of the plasticized material discharge device according to the present invention is A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening that discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle opening; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; Through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure in the flow path; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; and includes When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure in the flow path. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below do not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Also, not all of the configurations described below are essential constituent elements of the present invention.

[0010] 1. Three-dimensional shaping apparatus 1.1. Overall configuration First, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are shown as three axes orthogonal to each other. The X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are, for example, horizontal directions. The Z-axis direction is, for example, a vertical direction.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 includes, for example, a modeling unit 10, a stage 20, and a moving mechanism 30.

[0012] The three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 drives the moving mechanism 30 while discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle 160 of the modeling unit 10 onto the stage 20, thereby changing the relative position between the nozzle 160 and the stage 20. Thereby, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 forms a three-dimensional model of a desired shape on the stage 20. The detailed configuration of the modeling unit 10 will be described later.

[0013] The stage 20 is moved by the moving mechanism 30. The plasticized material discharged from the nozzle 160 is deposited on the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20, and a three-dimensional model is formed. The plasticized material may be directly deposited on the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20, or may be deposited on the deposition surface 22 via a sample plate provided on the stage 20.

[0014] The moving mechanism 30 changes the relative position between the modeling unit 10 and the stage 20. In the illustrated example, the moving mechanism 30 moves the stage 20 relative to the modeling unit 10. The moving mechanism 30 is constituted by, for example, a three-axis positioner that moves the stage 20 in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction by the driving force of three motors 32. The motor 32 is controlled by the control unit 190.

[0015] Note that the moving mechanism 30 may be configured to move the shaping unit 10 without moving the stage 20. Alternatively, the moving mechanism 30 may be configured to move one of the shaping unit 10 and the stage 20 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions and the other in the Z-axis direction.

[0016] 1.2. Shaping Unit As shown in FIG. 1, the shaping unit 10 includes, for example, a material supply unit 110 and a plasticized material discharge device 112.

[0017] Pellet-shaped or powder-shaped materials are loaded into the material supply unit 110. The material supply unit 110 supplies the plasticized material discharge device 112 with the material to be the raw material. The material supply unit 110 is constituted by, for example, a hopper. The material supply unit 110 and the plasticized material discharge device 112 are connected by a supply path 114 provided below the material supply unit 110. The material loaded into the material supply unit 110 is supplied to the plasticized material discharge device 112 via the supply path 114. The types of materials supplied by the material supply unit 110 will be described later.

[0018] The plasticized material discharge device 112 includes a plasticizing unit 120, a nozzle 160, a discharge amount adjustment mechanism 170, a pressure adjustment unit 180, and a control unit 190.

[0019] The plasticizing unit 120 plasticizes the solid-state material supplied from the material supply unit 110, generates a paste-like plasticized material having fluidity, and supplies it to the nozzle 160. The plasticizing unit 120 has, for example, a screw case 122, a drive motor 124, a flat screw 130, a barrel 140, and a heating unit 150.

[0020] Note that plasticization is a concept including melting, which is to change from a solid state to a state having fluidity. Specifically, in the case of a material in which glass transition occurs, plasticization is to make the temperature of the material equal to or higher than the glass transition point. In the case of a material in which glass transition does not occur, plasticization is to make the temperature of the material equal to or higher than the melting point.

[0021] The screw case 122 is a housing that houses the flat screw 130. A barrel 140 is provided on the lower surface of the screw case 122. The flat screw 130 is housed in the space surrounded by the screw case 122 and the barrel 140.

[0022] The drive motor 124 is provided on the upper surface of the screw case 122. The drive motor 124 is, for example, a servo motor. The shaft 126 of the drive motor 124 is connected to the upper surface 131 of the flat screw 130. The drive motor 124 is controlled by the control unit 190. Although not shown, the shaft 126 of the drive motor 124 and the upper surface 131 of the flat screw 130 may be connected via a speed reducer. It is okay.

[0023] The flat screw 130 has a substantially cylindrical shape in which the size in the direction of the rotation axis R is smaller than the size in the direction orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis R. In the illustrated example, the rotation axis R is parallel to the Z axis. The flat screw 130 rotates about the rotation axis R by the torque generated by the drive motor 124.

[0024] The flat screw 130 has an upper surface 131, a groove forming surface 132 on the side opposite to the upper surface 131, and a side surface 133 that connects the upper surface 131 and the groove forming surface 132. A first groove 134 is formed in the groove forming surface 132. The side surface 133 is, for example, perpendicular to the groove forming surface 132. Here, FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the flat screw 130. For convenience, in FIG. 2, the state shown is the state in which the vertical positional relationship is reversed from the state shown in FIG. 1.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 2, a first groove 134 is formed on the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. The first groove 134 is a spiral or volute-shaped groove when viewed in the Z-axis direction. The first groove 134 has, for example, a central portion 135, a connecting portion 136, and a material introduction portion 137. The central portion 135 faces a communication hole 146 formed in the barrel 140. The central portion 135 communicates with the communication hole 146. The connecting portion 136 connects the central portion 135 and the material introduction portion 137. In the illustrated example, the connecting portion 136 is formed in a spiral shape from the central portion 135 toward the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. The material introduction portion 137 is formed on the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. That is, the material introduction portion 137 is formed on the side surface 133 of the flat screw 130. The material supplied from the material supply unit 110 is introduced into the first groove 134 from the material introduction portion 137, passes through the connecting portion 136 and the central portion 135, and is conveyed to the communication hole 146 formed in the barrel 140.

[0026] In the illustrated example, two first grooves 134 are formed, but the number of the first grooves 134 is not particularly limited. Although not shown, three or more first grooves 134 may be formed, or only one first groove 134 may be formed. Also, although not shown, a so-called in-line screw may be provided instead of the flat screw 130.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 1, the barrel 140 is provided below the flat screw 130. The barrel 140 has a facing surface 142 that faces the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. The barrel 140 has a communication hole 146 that communicates with the first groove 134 at the center of the facing surface 142. Here, Fig. 3 is a plan view schematically showing the barrel 140.

[0028] On the opposing surface 142 of the barrel 140, as shown in FIG. 3, a second groove 144 and a communication hole 146 are formed. A plurality of second grooves 144 are formed. In the illustrated example, six second grooves 144 are formed, but the number is not particularly limited. The plurality of second grooves 144 are formed around the communication hole 146 when viewed from the Z-axis direction. One end of the second groove 144 is connected to the communication hole 146 and extends spirally from the communication hole 146 toward the outer periphery 148 of the barrel 140. The second groove 144 has a function of guiding the plasticized material to the communication hole 146.

[0029] Note that the shape of the second groove 144 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, linear. Also, one end of the second groove 144 may not be connected to the communication hole 146. Furthermore, the second groove 144 may not be formed on the opposing surface 142. However, considering efficiently guiding the plasticized material to the communication hole 146, it is preferable that the second groove 144 is formed on the opposing surface 142.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the heating unit 150 is provided on the barrel 140. The heating unit 150 is constituted by, for example, a rod heater. The heating unit 150 heats the material supplied between the flat screw 130 and the barrel 140. The heating unit 150 is controlled by the control unit 190. The plasticizing unit 120 heats the material while conveying it toward the communication hole 146 by the flat screw 130, the barrel 140, and the heating unit 150 to generate a plasticized material. The generated plasticized material flows out through the communication hole 146.

[0031] The nozzle 160 is provided below the barrel 140. The nozzle 160 and the stage 20 are relatively moved. The nozzle 160 has a nozzle flow path 162. The nozzle flow path 162 communicates with the communication hole 146. The nozzle flow path 162 and the communication hole 146 constitute a flow path 12 through which the plasticized material passes. In the illustrated example, the flow path 12 is formed along the Z-axis. The nozzle flow path 162 has a nozzle opening 164. The nozzle opening 164 is formed at the tip of the nozzle 160. The plasticized material supplied from the communication hole 146 reaches the nozzle opening 164 through the nozzle flow path 162. The nozzle 160 discharges the plasticized material supplied from the nozzle opening 164 toward the stage 20.

[0032] The discharge amount adjustment mechanism 170 adjusts the amount of the plasticized material discharged from the nozzle 160. The discharge amount adjustment mechanism 170 has, for example, a discharge amount adjustment unit 172, a drive shaft member 174, and a valve drive unit 176.

[0033] The discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is provided in the flow path 12. In the illustrated example, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is provided in the communication hole 146, but it may be provided in the nozzle flow path 162. Further, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 may be provided in an intermediate flow path between the communication hole 146 and the nozzle flow path 162. The discharge amount adjustment unit 172 adjusts the amount of the plasticized material passing through the flow path 12. Thereby, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164.

[0034] The discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is a butterfly valve. The discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is rotatable about a rotation axis Q. In the illustrated example, the rotation axis Q is parallel to the X-axis. Here, FIGS. 4 to 6 are diagrams for explaining the operation of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172. In FIGS. 4 to 6, an upper side shows a plan view seen from the Z-axis direction, and a lower side shows a cross-sectional view parallel to the YZ plane.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 changes the area of the opening 14 formed in the flow path 12 by rotating. Thereby, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is in a closed state, and no opening is formed in the flow path 12 by the discharge amount adjustment unit 172. In this case, the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164 is zero. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is in a fully open state, and the area of the opening 14 formed in the flow path 12 is maximum. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is in an intermediate state between the closed state and the fully open state, and the area of the opening 14 is smaller than that in the fully open state.

[0036] The "opening 14 formed in the flow path 12" refers to the region that does not overlap with the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 of the flow path 12 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and the "area of the opening 14" refers to the size of the region.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the drive shaft member 174 is connected to the discharge amount adjustment unit 172. The drive shaft member 174 is provided on the barrel 140. The drive shaft member 174 may be provided integrally with the discharge amount adjustment unit 172. In the illustrated example, the drive shaft member 174 is a rod-shaped member extending in the X-axis direction.

[0038] The valve drive unit 176 is connected to the drive shaft member 174. The valve drive unit 176 is configured to include, for example, a motor. By the driving force generated by the valve drive unit 176, the drive shaft member 174 rotates about the rotation axis Q. As the drive shaft member 174 rotates, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 rotates. The valve drive unit 176 is controlled by the control unit 190.

[0039] In the above description, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 has been described by taking the example of a butterfly valve. However, as long as the area of the opening 14 formed in the flow path 12 can be adjusted, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is not limited to a butterfly valve. For example, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 may be a plate-like member in which a through hole penetrating in the Z-axis direction is formed, and the area of the opening 14 may be adjusted by moving the plate-like member in the X-axis direction. In this case, the opening 14 is a region where the through hole formed in the plate-like member and the flow path 12 overlap when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0040] The pressure adjustment unit 180 adjusts the pressure in the flow path 12. The pressure adjustment unit 180 may decrease or increase the pressure in the flow path 12. The pressure adjustment unit 180 has, for example, a plunger 182 and a plunger drive unit 184.

[0041] The plunger 182 is provided in the branch flow path 16. The branch flow path 16 is connected to the flow path 12 between the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and the nozzle opening 164. That is, the branch flow path 16 is connected downstream in the path of the plasticized material from the portion of the flow path 12 where the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is provided. In the illustrated example, the branch flow path 16 is connected to the communication hole 146, but may be connected to the nozzle flow path 162. The branch flow path 16 extends, for example, in the +X-axis direction from the flow path 12.

[0042] The plunger 182 is, for example, a rod-shaped member extending in the X-axis direction. The plunger 182 is in sliding contact with the inner surface of the branch flow path 16. In the illustrated example, the inner surface of the branch flow path 16 is defined by the barrel 140. The barrel 140 that defines the inner surface of the branch flow path 16 functions as a cylinder in contact with the plunger 182.

[0043] The plunger 182 moves in the X-axis direction in the branch flow path 16. When the plunger 182 moves in the +X-axis direction, the plasticized material passing through the flow path 12 is sucked into the branch flow path 16, and the pressure in the flow path 12 decreases. In this case, the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164 is decreased. When the plunger 182 moves in the -X-axis direction, the plasticized material in the branch flow path 16 is pressed into the flow path 12, and the pressure in the flow path 12 increases. In this case, the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164 is increased. The pressure adjustment unit 180 adjusts the pressure in the flow path 12 through the flow path 12.

[0044] The plunger drive unit 184 is connected to the plunger 182. The plunger drive unit 184 is configured to include, for example, a motor. Due to the driving force generated by the plunger drive unit 184, the plunger 182 moves in the X-axis direction. The plunger drive unit 184 is controlled by the control unit 190.

[0045] In the above description, an example in which the pressure adjustment unit 180 includes the plunger 182 has been described. However, as long as the pressure in the flow path 12 can be adjusted, the configuration of the pressure adjustment unit 180 is not particularly limited. The pressure adjustment unit 180 may be, for example, a piston pump that performs suction or the like by moving a piston.

[0046] The control unit 190 is configured by, for example, a computer having a processor, a main storage device, and an input / output interface that performs signal input / output with the outside. The control unit 190, for example, causes the processor to execute a program read into the main storage device to exhibit various functions. The control unit 190 controls, for example, the motor 32 of the moving mechanism 30, the drive motor 124, the heating unit 150, the discharge amount adjustment mechanism 170, and the pressure adjustment unit 180. Note that the control unit 190 may be configured by a combination of a plurality of circuits instead of a computer. Hereinafter, the processing of the control unit 190 will be described.

[0047] 1.3. Processing of the Control Unit FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the control unit 190. For example, the user operates an operation unit (not shown) to output a processing start signal for starting the processing to the control unit 190. The operation unit is constituted by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or the like. When receiving the processing start signal, the control unit 190 starts the processing. Hereinafter, each processing will be described.

[0048] 1.3.1. Modeling Data Acquisition Processing First, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 190 performs a modeling data acquisition process of acquiring modeling data for modeling a three-dimensional object as step S10.

[0049] The modeling data is created, for example, by causing slicer software installed in a computer connected to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 to read shape data. The shape data is data representing the target shape of a three-dimensional object created using three-dimensional CAD (Computer Aided Design) software, three-dimensional CG (Computer Graphics) software, or the like. As the shape data, for example, data in the STL (Standard Triangulated Language) format, AMF (Additive Manufacturing File Format), or the like is used. The slicer software divides the target shape of the three-dimensional object into layers of a predetermined thickness and creates modeling data for each layer. The modeling data is represented by G-code or the like.

[0050] The modeling data includes information regarding the type of material supplied from the material supply unit 110, the heating temperature of the material, the movement path of the nozzle 160 relative to the stage 20, the relative speed between the stage 20 and the nozzle 160, and the like. Here, FIG. 8 is a table for explaining the information included in the modeling data. In the following, the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 will be described as a butterfly valve. Also, the “relative speed between the stage 20 and the nozzle 160” is also simply referred to as the “relative speed”. Also, the “discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164” is also simply referred to as the “discharge amount”.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8, the shaping data includes the conditions of the discharge amount adjustment mechanism 170 and the pressure adjustment unit 180 when the relative speed is changed from the first relative speed to the second relative speed. In the illustrated example, three types of patterns, namely, "No. 1" to "No. 3", are shown, but the number of patterns is not particularly limited. For example, the number of patterns is the same as the number of variations in the change of the relative speed.

[0052] In FIG. 8, "No. 1" and "No. 2" which are "within the layer" are information within any layer when the three-dimensional shaped object is divided into a plurality of layers. "No. 3" which is "between layers" is information between any layer and the next layer when the formation of any layer is completed and the formation of the next layer is started.

[0053] "No. 1" is information when, within the layer, the state is changed from the state of the first relative speed V1 to the state of the second relative speed V2. V2 is a value larger than V1. "No. 2" is the case when, within the layer, the state is changed from the state where the first relative speed is zero, that is, the state where the nozzle 160 is stopped with respect to the stage 20, to the state of the second relative speed V1. "No. 3" is the case when, between layers, the state is changed from the state where the first relative speed is zero to the state of the second relative speed V2.

[0054] Note that in FIG. 8, "within the layer" indicates the change in the relative speed within any layer when the three-dimensional shaped object is divided into a plurality of layers. "Between layers" indicates the change in the relative speed between any layer and the next layer when the formation of any layer is completed and the formation of the next layer is started.

[0055] In FIG. 8, "BV timing" indicates the timing at which the angle of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is changed. For example, when the BV timing is T1 seconds, the angle of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is changed 1 second before the relative speed is changed. More specifically, the change in the angle of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is instructed at the timing 1 second before the change in the relative speed is instructed. "BV angle" indicates the rotation angle of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 when the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is fully open as shown in FIG. 5 is set to 0°. When the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is closed as shown in FIG. 4, the BV angle is 90°.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 8, in "No. 1", at the BV timing T1, the BV angle is changed from θ1 to θ2. θ1 is an angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. θ2 is an angle greater than 0° and less than θ1. In "No. 2", at the BV timing T2, the BV angle is changed from 90° to θ1. T2 is a longer time than T1. In "No. 3", at the BV timing T3, the BV angle is changed from 90° to θ1, and then further changed from θ1 to θ2. T3 is a longer time than T2.

[0057] Here, in the state where the BV angle is 90° and the discharge amount is zero, since the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is closed, the pressure in the portion upstream of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 in the flow path 12 increases with the passage of time. Therefore, when a predetermined time has elapsed in the state where the discharge amount is zero, if the BV angle is suddenly changed to θ2, the plasticized material will suddenly flow out downstream of the discharge amount adjustment unit, and the pressure in the flow path cannot be adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit, resulting in an unexpected discharge amount. In particular, in the case of "between layers", since the state of zero discharge amount continues for a long time, such a problem is likely to occur. Therefore, in "No. 3" which is "between layers", as shown in FIG. 8, the BV angle is gradually decreased and the discharge amount is gradually increased.

[0058] In FIG. 8, "PL timing" indicates the timing at which the plunger 182 is moved. For example, when the PL timing is U1 seconds, the plunger 182 is moved U1 seconds before the relative speed changes. More specifically, the movement of the plunger 182 is instructed at the timing U1 seconds before the change in the relative speed is instructed. "PL movement amount" indicates the movement amount of the plunger 182. In the "PL movement amount", when the plunger 182 is moved in the direction approaching the flow path 12, it may be indicated by a positive value, and when the plunger 182 is moved in the direction away from the flow path 12, it may be indicated by a negative value.

[0059] In "No. 1", the PL timing is U1 and the PL movement amount is D1. U1 is a time shorter than T1. In "No. 2", the PL timing is U2 and the PL movement amount is D2. U2 is a time longer than U1 and shorter than T2. D2 is smaller than D1. In "No. 3", the PL timing is U3 and the PL movement amount is D3. U3 is a time longer than U2 and shorter than T3. D3 is larger than D1.

[0060] When changing the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, the pressure adjustment unit 180 may be controlled stepwise to adjust the pressure in the flow path 12 stepwise. By controlling the pressure adjustment unit 180 stepwise, it is possible to suppress an unexpected discharge amount.

[0061] The BV timing and the PL timing may be determined according to the type of the plasticized material. For example, when the viscoelasticity of the plasticized material is high, the movement time from the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 of the plasticized material to the nozzle opening 164 becomes longer than when the viscoelasticity of the plasticized material is low. Therefore, the BV timing and the PL timing may be lengthened.

[0062] The BV timing and the PL timing may be determined according to the temperature of the plasticized material. The "temperature of the plasticized material" is the temperature when heated by the heating unit 150. For example, when the temperature of the plasticized material is low, the viscoelasticity is higher than when the temperature of the plasticized material is high, so the BV timing and the PL timing may be lengthened.

[0063] The BV timing and the PL timing may be determined according to the degree of change in the relative speed. For example, when the degree of change in the relative speed is large, the BV timing and the PL timing may be lengthened compared to when the degree of change in the relative speed is small.

[0064] In this way, according to at least one of the type of the plasticized material, the temperature of the plasticized material, and the degree of change in the relative speed, the change timing of the area of the opening 14 by the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and the adjustment timing of the pressure in the flow path 12 by the pressure adjustment unit 180 may be determined.

[0065] The PL movement amount may be determined according to the degree of change in the BV angle. For example, when the degree of change in the BV angle is large, the PL movement amount may be increased compared to when the degree of change in the BV angle is small. In this way, according to the degree of change in the area of the opening 14 by the discharge amount adjustment unit 172, the pressure in the flow path 12 adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit 180 may be determined. Note that the PL movement amount may be determined by the pressure difference in the flow path 12 before and after the change in the relative speed.

[0066] The control unit 190 acquires, for example, the shaping data including the above information from a computer connected to the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, a recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0067] 1.3.2. Shaping Layer Formation Process Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 190 performs a shaping layer formation process of forming a shaping layer on the stage 20 as step S20.

[0068] Specifically, the control unit 190 plasticizes the material supplied between the flat screw 130 and the barrel 140 to generate a plasticized material, and discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle 160. The control unit 190 continues to generate the plasticized material until the formation process of the modeling layer is completed. Here, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the formation process of the modeling layer.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 9, based on the acquired modeling data, the control unit 190 controls the movement mechanism 30 to change the relative position between the nozzle 160 and the deposition surface 22 of the stage 20, and discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle 160 toward the deposition surface 22.

[0070] Specifically, before the start of the formation process of the modeling layer, that is, before the start of the formation of the first layer L1 which is the first layer of the modeling layer, the nozzle 160 is disposed at an initial position in the -X axis direction rather than at the -X axis direction end of the stage 20. When the formation process of the modeling layer starts, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 190 relatively moves the nozzle 160 in the +X axis direction with respect to the stage 20 by controlling the movement mechanism 30. When the nozzle 160 passes over the stage 20, the plasticized material is discharged from the nozzle 160. Thereby, the first layer L1 is formed. In FIG. 9, up to the nth layer Ln where n is an arbitrary natural number is illustrated.

[0071] Here, FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the formation process of the modeling layer in more detail.

[0072] In the formation process of the modeling layer, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 190 performs a process of determining whether to change the relative speed as step S21. Specifically, the control unit 190 performs a process of determining whether to change the relative speed based on the acquired modeling data. For example, when the nozzle 160 that has been moving linearly with respect to the stage 20 bends, it is necessary to change the relative speed.

[0073] When it is determined to change the relative speed (i.e., "YES" in step S21), the control unit 190 performs, as step S22, a process of determining whether the position of the plunger 182 is within a predetermined range. For example, every time the control unit 190 moves the plunger 182 in step S23 and step S25, it stores the position of the plunger 182 in a storage unit (not shown) and determines whether the position of the plunger 182 read from the storage unit is within the predetermined range. Alternatively, the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100 includes a sensor (not shown) for detecting the position of the plunger 182, and the control unit 190 may determine whether the position of the plunger 182 detected by the sensor is within the predetermined range. The "predetermined range" in step S22 is information included in the shaping data.

[0074] When it is determined that the position of the plunger 182 is out of the predetermined range (i.e., "NO" in step S22), the control unit 190 performs, as step S23, a process of controlling the pressure adjustment unit 180 to move the plunger 182 by a predetermined amount in a direction approaching the predetermined range. Specifically, the control unit 190 drives the plunger driving unit 184 to move the plunger 182 by a predetermined amount in a direction approaching the predetermined range. For example, when the position of the plunger 182 is shifted in the +X-axis direction from the predetermined range, the control unit 190 moves the plunger 182 by a predetermined amount in the -X-axis direction.

[0075] Note that the "predetermined amount" is an amount that can keep the change amount of the line width caused by the movement of the plunger 182 in step S23 within 5%. The "line width" is the size in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction of the plasticized material discharged onto the stage 20 in a plan view when the nozzle 160 moves in the first direction with respect to the stage 20 and discharges the plasticized material.

[0076] The "predetermined range" and the "predetermined amount" in step S23 are information included in the shaping data. The control unit 190 repeats step S22 and step S23 until it is determined in step S22 that the position of the plunger 182 is within the predetermined range.

[0077] When it is determined that the position of the plunger 182 is within a predetermined range (”YES” in step S22), the control unit 190 performs, as step S24, a process of controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to rotate the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and change the area of the opening 14. Specifically, the control unit 190 rotates the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 by driving the valve drive unit 176 based on the modeling data to rotate the drive shaft member 174.

[0078] For example, as shown in ”No.1” in FIG. 8, when the relative speed is changed from the first relative speed V1 to the second relative speed V2, the control unit 190 changes the BV angle of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 from θ1 to θ2 based on the modeling data and changes the area of the opening 14. For example, as in ”No.3”, when the control unit 190 changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount of zero to the second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to gradually increase the area of the opening 14.

[0079] Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 190 performs, as step S25, a process of controlling the pressure adjustment unit 180 to move the plunger 182 and adjust the pressure in the flow path 12. Specifically, the control unit 190 moves the plunger 182 by driving the plunger drive unit 184 based on the modeling data. For example, as shown in ”No.1” in FIG. 8 ”, when the relative speed is changed from the first relative speed V1 to the second relative speed V2, the control unit 190 moves the plunger 182 by D1 based on the modeling data. In this way, when the control unit 190 changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14, the control unit 190 controls the pressure adjustment unit 180 to adjust the pressure in the flow path 12. The control unit 190 may control the pressure adjustment unit 180 step by step to gradually adjust the pressure in the flow path 12 after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14.

[0080] The control unit 190 can change the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle 160 from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount by steps S25 and S26. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening 164 and is not zero. The first discharge amount may be zero or greater than zero. The first discharge amount may be greater than or less than the second discharge amount.

[0081] Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 190 performs a process of changing the relative speed as step S26. Specifically, the control unit 190 drives the motor 32 of the moving mechanism 30 based on the shaping data. Thereafter, the control unit 190 returns the process to step S21.

[0082] If it is determined not to change the relative speed (''NO'' in step S21), the control unit 190 performs a process of determining whether or not the formation of the nth layer is completed based on the shaping data as step S27. If it is determined that the formation of the nth layer is not completed (''NO'' in step S27), the control unit 190 returns the process to step S21. If it is determined that the formation of the nth layer is completed (''YES'' in step S27), the control unit 190 ends the shaping layer formation process.

[0083] In the above, an example has been described in which the process of determining whether or not the position of the plunger 182 is out of the predetermined range and the process of moving the plunger 182 according to the result of the determination are performed before step S24. However, these processes may be performed after step S24 and before step S25, after step S25 and before step S26, or after step S26. Alternatively, these processes may be repeatedly performed at a predetermined timing while the shaping layer formation process is being performed. However, in order to prevent the process of the control unit 190 from becoming complicated, it is preferable that these processes are not performed simultaneously with steps S24, S25, and S26.

[0084] 1.3.3. Determination process of whether or not the formation of all shaping layers is completed Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 190 performs a determination process as step S30 to determine whether or not the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed based on the modeling data. If it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has not been completed (\"NO\" in step S30), the control unit 190 returns the process to step S20. The control unit 190 repeats steps S20 and S30 until it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed. If it is determined that the formation of all the modeling layers has been completed (\"YES\" in step S30), the control unit 190 ends the process.

[0085] 1.4. Operational Effects In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, a discharge amount adjustment unit 172 is provided in a flow path 12 that communicates with the nozzle opening 164 and through which a plasticized material flows, and the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening 164 is adjusted by changing the area of an opening 14 formed in the flow path 12. Further, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 includes a pressure adjustment unit 180 that adjusts the pressure of the flow path 12 through a branch flow path 16 connected to the flow path 12 between the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and the nozzle opening 164. When the control unit 190 of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14, the control unit 190 controls the pressure adjustment unit 180 to adjust the pressure of the flow path 12.

[0086] As described above, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, when changing the discharge amount, by controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and then controlling the pressure adjustment unit 180, it is possible to reduce the time lag caused by the length of the flow path 12 from the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to the nozzle opening 164, or correct the pressure fluctuation of the flow path 12 that occurs during the adjustment of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172. Thereby, the discharge amount can be accurately changed.

[0087] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, the nozzle 160 and the stage 20 are relatively moved. When the relative speed between the nozzle 160 and the stage 20 is changed, the control unit 190 changes the discharge amount. For example, when the relative speed increases, the control unit 190 increases the discharge amount. When the relative speed decreases, the control unit 190 decreases the discharge amount. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, fluctuations in the line width due to changes in the relative speed can be reduced.

[0088] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, before changing the relative speed, the control unit 190 controls the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14. After changing the area of the opening 14 and before changing the relative speed, the control unit 190 controls the pressure adjustment unit 180 to adjust the pressure in the flow path 12. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, even if a time lag occurs between the control of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and the fluctuation of the discharge amount, the time lag can be reduced.

[0089] Note that the control unit 190 may control the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14 after changing the relative speed, or may control the pressure adjustment unit 180 to adjust the pressure in the flow path 12 after changing the relative speed.

[0090] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, according to at least one of the type of the plasticized material, the temperature of the plasticized material, and the degree of change in the relative speed, the timing of changing the area of the opening 14 by the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 and the timing of adjusting the pressure in the flow path 12 by the pressure adjustment unit 180 are determined. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, for example, the area of the opening 14 can be changed and the pressure in the flow path 12 can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the type of the plasticized material. Further, for example, the area of the opening 14 can be changed and the pressure in the flow path 12 can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the temperature of the plasticized material. Further, for example, the area of the opening 14 can be changed and the pressure in the flow path 12 can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the degree of change in the relative speed.

[0091] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, the pressure in the flow path 12 adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit is determined according to the degree of change in the area of the opening 14. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, the pressure in the flow path 12 can be set to a magnitude suitable for the degree of change in the area of the opening 14.

[0092] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, the pressure adjustment unit 180 has a plunger 182 that moves in the branch flow path 16. When the position of the plunger 182 deviates from a predetermined range, the control unit 190 controls the pressure adjustment unit 180 during shaping to move the plunger 182 by a predetermined amount in a direction approaching the predetermined range. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, for example, it is possible to prevent the plunger 182 from moving to the limit in the +X-axis direction and being unable to adjust the pressure in the flow path 12 to decrease. Note that "during shaping" means while performing the shaping layer formation process.

[0093] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, when the control unit 190 changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount where the discharge amount is zero to the second discharge amount, the control unit 190 controls the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to gradually increase the area of the opening 14. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, the pressure in the portion upstream of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 in the flow path 12 can be gradually decreased. Thereby, the possibility that the plasticized material flows out all at once downstream of the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 can be reduced.

[0094] In the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, when the control unit 190 changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit 172 to change the area of the opening 14, the control unit 190 may gradually control the pressure adjustment unit 180 to gradually adjust the pressure in the flow path 12. Therefore, in the three-dimensional shaping apparatus 100, it is possible to suppress an unexpected discharge amount.

[0095] 1.5. Material Examples of the material supplied from the material supply unit 110 include materials mainly composed of various materials such as thermoplastic materials, metal materials, and ceramic materials. Here, the "main material" means the central material that forms the shape of the shaped object, and means a material that occupies a content rate of 50% by mass or more in the shaped object. The materials described above include those obtained by melting these main materials alone, and those in which some components contained together with the main material are melted into a paste state.

[0096] As the thermoplastic material, for example, a thermoplastic resin can be used. Examples of the thermoplastic resin include general-purpose engineering plastics such as ABS resin, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyacetal (POM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate (PC), modified polyphenylene ether, polybutylene terephthalate, and polyethylene terephthalate, and engineering plastics such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyetherimide, and PEEK.

[0097] The thermoplastic material may be mixed with pigments, metals, ceramics, and other additives such as wax, flame retardant, antioxidant, and heat stabilizer. The thermoplastic material is plasticized and converted into a molten state by the rotation of the flat screw 130 and the heating of the heating unit 150 in the plasticizing unit 120. Further, the plasticized material thus produced is cured by a decrease in temperature after being injected from the nozzle 160. It is desirable that the thermoplastic material be heated above its glass transition point and injected from the nozzle 160 in a completely molten state.

[0098] In the plasticizing unit 120, instead of the material having the above-described thermoplasticity, for example, a metal material may be used as the main material. In this case, it is desirable that a component that melts during the production of the plasticizing material be mixed with the powdered material of the metal material and then introduced into the plasticizing unit 120.

[0099] Examples of the metal material include single metals such as magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), or alloys containing one or more of these metals, as well as maraging steel, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, cobalt alloys, and cobalt-chromium alloys.

[0100] In the plasticizing unit 120, it is possible to use a ceramic material as the main material instead of the above metal material. Examples of the ceramic material include oxide ceramics such as silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, and non-oxide ceramics such as aluminum nitride.

[0101] The powdered material of the metal material or ceramic material supplied from the material supply unit 110 may be a mixed material in which powders of a single metal, alloy powders, or ceramic material powders are mixed in multiple types. Also, the powdered material of the metal material or ceramic material may be coated with, for example, the above-described thermoplastic resin, or other thermoplastic resins. In this case, in the plasticizing unit 120, it may be assumed that the thermoplastic resin melts and exhibits fluidity.

[0102] To the powder materials of metallic materials and ceramic materials supplied from the material supply unit 110, for example, a solvent can also be added. Examples of the solvent include water; (poly)alkylene glycol monoalkyl ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, and propylene glycol monoethyl ether; acetate esters such as ethyl acetate, n-propyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, and isobutyl acetate; aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, and xylene; ketones such as methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl-n-butyl ketone, diisopropyl ketone, and acetylacetone; alcohols such as ethanol, propanol, and butanol; tetraalkylammonium acetates; sulfoxide-based solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide and diethyl sulfoxide; pyridine-based solvents such as pyridine, γ-picoline, and 2,6-lutidine; tetraalkylammonium acetate (for example, tetrabutylammonium acetate, etc.); ionic liquids such as butyl carbitol acetate, etc.

[0103] In addition, to the powder materials of metallic materials and ceramic materials supplied from the material supply unit 110, for example, a binder may be added. Examples of the binder include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, silicone resins, cellulose-based resins, or other synthetic resins, or PLA (polylactic acid), PA (polyamide), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), PEEK, or other thermoplastic resins.

[0104] The above-described embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not limited thereto. For example, it is also possible to appropriately combine each embodiment and each modification.

[0105] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments, for example, configurations having the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations having the same objectives and effects. The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that exhibit the same operational effects as the configurations described in the embodiments or configurations that can achieve the same objectives. The present invention also includes configurations in which known technologies are added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0106] The following content is derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications.

[0107] One aspect of a three-dimensional shaping apparatus is a plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material, a nozzle having a nozzle opening that discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage, a discharge amount adjustment unit that is provided in a flow path that communicates with the nozzle opening and through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path, a pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening, a control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit, and includes when the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, and then controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path, wherein the second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening.

[0108] According to this three-dimensional shaping apparatus, the discharge amount can be accurately changed.

[0109] In one aspect of a three-dimensional shaping apparatus, the nozzle and the stage are relatively moved, When the relative speed between the nozzle and the stage is changed, the control unit may change the discharge amount.

[0110] According to this three-dimensional shaping apparatus, fluctuations in line width due to changes in relative speed can be reduced.

[0111] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping apparatus, the control unit before changing the relative speed, controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, after changing the area of the opening and before changing the relative speed, the pressure adjustment unit may be controlled to adjust the pressure in the flow path.

[0112] According to this three-dimensional shaping apparatus, even if a time lag occurs between the control of the discharge amount adjustment unit and the fluctuation of the discharge amount, the time lag can be reduced.

[0113] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping apparatus, depending on at least one of the type of the plasticized material, the temperature of the plasticized material, and the degree of change in the relative speed, the timing of changing the area of the opening by the discharge amount adjustment unit and the timing of adjusting the pressure in the flow path by the pressure adjustment unit may be determined.

[0114] According to this three-dimensional shaping apparatus, for example, the area of the opening can be changed and the pressure in the flow path can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the type of the plasticized material. Further, for example, the area of the opening can be changed and the pressure in the flow path can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the temperature of the plasticized material. Further, for example, the area of the opening can be changed and the pressure in the flow path can be adjusted at a timing suitable for the degree of change in the relative speed.

[0115] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping apparatus, depending on the degree of change in the area of the opening, the pressure in the flow path adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit may be determined.

[0116] According to this three-dimensional shaping device, the pressure in the flow path can be set to a magnitude suitable for the degree of change in the area of the opening.

[0117] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping device, the pressure adjustment unit has a plunger that moves in the branch flow path, when the position of the plunger deviates from a predetermined range, the control unit may control the pressure adjustment unit during shaping to move the plunger by a predetermined amount in a direction approaching the predetermined range.

[0118] According to this three-dimensional shaping device, it is possible to prevent the plunger from moving to the limit and making it impossible to adjust the pressure in the flow path.

[0119] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping device, when the control unit changes the discharge amount to the second discharge amount after a predetermined time with the first discharge amount being zero, the discharge amount adjustment unit may be controlled to gradually increase the area of the opening.

[0120] According to this three-dimensional shaping device, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the plasticized material flows out all at once downstream of the discharge amount adjustment unit.

[0121] In one aspect of the three-dimensional shaping device, when the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the pressure adjustment unit may be controlled step by step to adjust the pressure in the flow path step by step.

[0122] According to this three-dimensional shaping device, it is possible to suppress an unexpected discharge amount.

[0123] One aspect of the plasticized material discharge device is a plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material, a nozzle having a nozzle opening and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening, A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure in the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; and includes When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure in the flow path; The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening.

Description of Signs

[0124] 10... Modeling unit, 12... Flow path, 14... Opening, 16... Branch flow path, 20... Stage, 22... Deposition surface, 30... Moving mechanism, 32... Motor, 100... Three-dimensional modeling apparatus, 110... Material supply unit, 112... Plasticized material discharge device, 114... Supply path, 120... Plasticizing unit, 122... Screw case, 124... Driving motor, 126... Shaft, 130... Flat screw, 131... Upper surface, 132... Groove forming surface, 133... Side surface, 134... First groove, 135... Central portion, 136... Connection portion, 137... Material introduction portion, 140... Barrel, 142... Opposing surface, 144... Second groove, 146... Communication hole, 148... Outer periphery, 150... Heating portion, 160... Nozzle, 162... Nozzle flow path, 164... Nozzle opening, 170... Discharge amount adjustment mechanism, 172... Discharge amount adjustment unit, 174... Drive shaft member, 176... Valve drive portion, 180... Pressure adjustment unit, 182... Plunger, 184... Plunger drive portion, 190... Control unit

Claims

1. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening, and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; Including; When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path; The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening; The nozzle and the stage are relatively moved; When the relative speed between the nozzle and the stage is changed, the control unit changes the discharge amount; The control unit is; Before changing the relative speed, controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening; A three-dimensional shaping apparatus that, after changing the area of the opening and before changing the relative speed, controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path.

2. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening, and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening By changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; Including; When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path; The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening; A three-dimensional shaping apparatus in which the pressure of the flow path adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit is determined according to the degree of change in the area of the opening.

3. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening, and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; comprising When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening. A three-dimensional shaping apparatus in which, when the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount, where the discharge amount is zero, to the second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to gradually increase the area of the opening.

4. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening, and discharging the plasticized material from the nozzle opening toward a stage; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; comprising When the control unit changes the discharge amount from a first discharge amount to a second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening. When the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, and then controls the pressure adjustment unit step by step to adjust the pressure in the flow path step by step. A three-dimensional shaping device.

5. In claim 1, According to at least one of the type of the plasticized material, the temperature of the plasticized material, and the degree of change in the relative speed, the timing of changing the area of the opening by the discharge amount adjustment unit and the timing of adjusting the pressure in the flow path by the pressure adjustment unit are determined. A three-dimensional shaping device.

6. In any one of claims 1 to 5, The pressure adjustment unit has a plunger that moves in the branch flow path, When the position of the plunger deviates from a predetermined range, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit during shaping to move the plunger by a predetermined amount in a direction approaching the predetermined range. A three-dimensional shaping device.

7. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening that discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle opening; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening and is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure in the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; Including When the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, and then controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure in the flow path. The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is discharged from the nozzle opening. According to the degree of change in the area of the opening, the pressure in the flow path adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit is determined. A plasticized material discharge device.

8. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening that discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle opening; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening and is provided in a flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of an opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; comprising; When the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path; The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening; A plasticized material discharge device in which, when the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount, where the discharge amount is zero, to the second discharge amount, the control unit controls the discharge amount adjustment unit to gradually increase the area of the opening.

9. A plasticizing unit that plasticizes a material to generate a plasticized material; A nozzle having a nozzle opening that discharges the plasticized material from the nozzle opening; A discharge amount adjustment unit that communicates with the nozzle opening, is provided in the flow path through which the plasticized material flows, and adjusts the discharge amount of the plasticized material from the nozzle opening by changing the area of the opening formed in the flow path; A pressure adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure of the flow path through a branch flow path connected to the flow path between the discharge amount adjustment unit and the nozzle opening; A control unit that controls the discharge amount adjustment unit and the pressure adjustment unit; comprising; When the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit to adjust the pressure of the flow path; The second discharge amount is the discharge amount when the plasticized material is being discharged from the nozzle opening; A plasticized material discharge device in which, when the control unit changes the discharge amount from the first discharge amount to the second discharge amount, after controlling the discharge amount adjustment unit to change the area of the opening, the control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit step by step to adjust the pressure of the flow path step by step.

Images