Double-spray-head printing head and 3D printer

Abstract

The present application provides a double-spray-head printing head and a 3D printer. The double-spray-head printing head comprises a first spray head assembly, a second spray head assembly, and a switching assembly; the first spray head assembly and the second spray head assembly each comprise a nozzle and a heating piece thermally coupled to the nozzle; the switching assembly is configured to drive the first spray head assembly to move relative to the second spray head assembly in a first direction; and the first spray head assembly and the second spray head assembly each further comprise a heat conduction column arranged between the inner side wall of the heating piece and the outer side wall of the nozzle, and the heating piece surrounds and is fitted over the outer side wall of the heat conduction column, so as to transmit heat generated by the heating piece to the nozzle by means of the heat conduction column.

Description

Dual-jet print head and 3D printer

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202323232016.9 filed on November 29, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present application belongs to the field of 3D printing technology, and specifically relates to a dual-jet print head and a 3D printer. Background Art

[0004] A 3D printer, also known as a three-dimensional printer or stereo printer, is a rapid prototyping process. It typically uses filamentary consumables, which are molten through temperature control, extruded through a nozzle, and then, under program control, laid down along a set path to form the object. The extrusion control section of the consumables is called the print head. The print head consists of a heat sink, a hose, a heating block, and a nozzle. As the core component of a 3D printer, its performance directly affects the overall performance of the 3D printer.

[0005] Existing dual-head printers are typically equipped with two nozzle assemblies. When in use, the two nozzle assemblies need to work alternately. That is, when one nozzle assembly is working, the other nozzle assembly needs to pause. However, the paused nozzle assembly and the working nozzle assembly cannot be switched up and down, resulting in the paused nozzle assembly potentially scratching the printed model, affecting the printing effect. In addition, the dual-head printing mechanism is equipped with a heating block for heating the filament. However, since the heating block is generally equipped with an independent heating element, the heating element heats the heating block to melt the filament, resulting in uneven temperature distribution within the heating block. As a result, the filament in the nozzle melts unevenly and clumps, which may clog the nozzle and produce poor printing quality. Therefore, how to achieve more uniform heating of the consumables in the nozzle assembly while switching between the dual nozzle assemblies is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present application provides a dual-jet print head and a 3D printer to solve the problem of how to achieve more uniform heating of consumables in the nozzle assembly while switching between the dual nozzle assemblies.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present application provides a dual-jet print head, comprising a first nozzle assembly, a second nozzle assembly and a switching assembly;

[0008] The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly each include a nozzle and a heating element thermally coupled to the nozzle;

[0009] The switching assembly is configured to drive the first nozzle assembly to move in a first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly.

[0010] As a further improvement of the present application, the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly also include a heat-conducting column arranged between the inner wall of the heating element and the outer wall of the nozzle, and the heating element is arranged around the outer wall of the heat-conducting column to transfer the heat generated by the heating element to the nozzle through the heat-conducting column.

[0011] As a further improvement of the present application, the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a temperature detection member, and the temperature detection member is arranged close to the outer side wall of the heating member.

[0012] As a further improvement of the present application, the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a material delivery pipe for receiving consumables, and the material delivery pipe is connected to the nozzle of the corresponding nozzle assembly;

[0013] The heat-conducting column includes a first heat-conducting column and a second heat-conducting column, the diameter of the first heat-conducting column is larger than the diameter of the second heat-conducting column, and the heating element is thermally coupled to the outer wall of the first heat-conducting column; the end of the material delivery pipe close to the nozzle is connected to a first connecting ring, and the first connecting ring is arranged inside the second heat-conducting column to connect the material delivery pipe to the nozzle arranged in the first heat-conducting column.

[0014] As a further improvement of the present application, a heat dissipation block is provided at one end of the feed pipe away from the nozzle, the heat dissipation block comprising a plurality of stacked and spaced heat dissipation fins, and a material guide pipe connected to the feed pipe at the corresponding position is provided through the heat dissipation block;

[0015] Wherein, the material guide pipe arranged above the first nozzle assembly is a telescopic material guide pipe to cooperate with the movement of the first nozzle assembly relative to the second nozzle assembly in the first direction.

[0016] As a further improvement of the present application, the switching assembly includes a driving member and a moving member transmission-connected to the driving member, and the first nozzle assembly is connected to the first end of the moving member via a sliding assembly;

[0017] The moving member includes a central gear connected to the driving shaft of the driving member, and a rack meshing with the central gear. An engaging portion is provided at the first side of the rack, and the engaging portion is provided with an external tooth profile adapted to the central gear. The central gear is driven to rotate by the driving member so that the rack moves back and forth in a second direction relative to the driving member; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0018] As a further improvement of the present application, the outer tooth profile is recessed in the first side, and the length of the outer tooth profile is configured to allow the first nozzle assembly to move to a preset height in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly;

[0019] When the first nozzle assembly moves to a preset height, the central gear abuts against the meshing portion of the rack to limit the first nozzle assembly that has moved to the preset height.

[0020] As a further improvement of the present application, the sliding assembly includes a sliding member provided on the first nozzle assembly, a guide groove being provided on a side wall of the sliding member, and a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove being provided on a first end of the moving member; the guide member passes through and is provided in the guide groove, so as to convert the movement of the moving member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member;

[0021] Alternatively, the sliding assembly includes a sliding member arranged at the first end of the moving member, a guide groove is provided on the side wall of the sliding member, and the first nozzle assembly is provided with a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove at a position close to the first end of the moving member; the guide member passes through and is arranged in the guide groove to convert the movement of the moving member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member.

[0022] As a further improvement of the present application, the guide member includes a roller arranged in the guide groove and an axle pin arranged through the roller. The first end of the movable member is provided with an extension portion extending in the horizontal direction. After the axle pin passes through the roller arranged in the corresponding guide groove, it extends to the extension portion at the corresponding position.

[0023] The present application also provides a 3D printer comprising any of the dual-jet print heads described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0025] FIG1 is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0026] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of an extrusion assembly in a dual-jet printhead provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0027] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of a switching assembly in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0028] FIG4 is a schematic structural diagram of a sliding assembly in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0029] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of an engaging portion in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0030] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the guide hole in the dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0031] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of a heating element in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0032] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a temperature detection element in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0033] FIG9 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat dissipation block in a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0034] FIG10 is a schematic structural diagram of an outer shell of a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0035] FIG11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication hole in the dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0036] FIG12 is a cross-sectional view of a heat dissipation block in a dual-jet print head according to one or more embodiments of the present application.

[0037] FIG13 is a schematic structural diagram of a frame in a dual-jet printhead provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0038] FIG14 is a schematic structural diagram of a stop baffle of a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application;

[0039] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a dual-jet print head provided by one or more embodiments of the present application.

[0040] Explanation of Reference Numerals: 1-first nozzle assembly; 2-second nozzle assembly; 3-switching assembly; 10-driving assembly; 11-driving member; 111-driving shaft; 12-moving member; 121-center gear; 122-rack; 123-engaging portion; 124-external tooth profile; 13-rack pressure plate; 14-guide member; 141-roller; 142-axle pin; 15-extension portion; 20-sliding assembly; 21-sliding member; 22-guide groove; 24-guide hole; 25-stop hole; 30 - Nozzle; 301 - External Thread; 302 - Discharge Hole; 31 - Feeding Pipe; 32 - First Connecting Ring; 33 - Connecting Bolt; 34 - Second Connecting Ring; 35 - Heating Element; 351 - First Lead; 36 - Temperature Detector; 361 - Second Lead; 37 - Thermal Seat; 371 - Fixing Block; 372 - Thermal Post; 373 - First Thermal Post; 374 - Second Thermal Post; 375 - First Through-Hole; 40 - Outer Shell; 41 - Discharge Port; 42 - First Lead Hole; 43 - Second Lead Hole; 44 - Heat Sink; 441 - Heat Sink Fin; 442 - First Mounting Hole; 443 - Connecting Hole; 444 - Second Mounting Hole; 50 - Frame; 51 - Guide Post; 52 - Stop Plate; 521 - Top Protrusion; 53 - Slot; 60-extrusion assembly; 62-front shell; 63-rear shell; 64-heat dissipation element; 65-material guide tube. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more clearly understood, this application is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0042] In the description of this application, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, for example, two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined. All directional indications in the embodiments of this application (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) are only used to explain the relative position relationship and movement of the components under a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0043] To provide a more detailed and complete description of the present disclosure, the following provides illustrative descriptions of the embodiments and examples of the present application; however, these descriptions are not intended to be the only ways to implement or use the embodiments of the present application. The embodiments cover features of various embodiments, as well as the method steps and sequences for constructing and operating these embodiments. However, other embodiments may also be used to achieve the same or equivalent functionality and step sequences.

[0044] Please refer to Figures 1 to 15. In order to solve the problem in the prior art of how to achieve more uniform heating of the consumables in the nozzle assembly while realizing the switching use of the dual nozzle assembly, an embodiment of the present application provides a dual-jet print head and a 3D printer. Please refer to Figure 1, which is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of the dual-jet print head provided in the embodiment of the present application. The dual-jet print head includes a first nozzle assembly 1, a second nozzle assembly 2 and a switching assembly 3, wherein the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 both include a nozzle 30 and a heating element 35 thermally coupled to the nozzle 30. After the consumables are introduced into the nozzle 30, the consumables entering the nozzle 30 are heated by the heating element 35, and the switching assembly 3 is provided to drive the above-mentioned first nozzle assembly 1 to move relative to the second nozzle assembly 2 in the first direction, so as to realize the alternating use of the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 to avoid scratching the printed model.

[0045] In a specific embodiment provided in the present application, the switching component 3 is used to drive the first nozzle assembly 1 to move in the up and down directions relative to the second nozzle assembly 2 until it moves to a preset height. At the same time, the heating element 35 arranged inside the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 heats the consumable material entering the nozzle 30 to melt the filament for use in 3D printing.

[0046] Please refer to FIG7 , which is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heating element 35 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0047] The heating element 35 provided in this application is a heating ring with an annular structure, which is arranged on the outer wall of the nozzle 30 to achieve thermal coupling between the heating element 35 and the nozzle 30, that is, the consumables inside the nozzle 30 are heated by the heating element 35 with an annular structure.

[0048] Furthermore, the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 provided in the present application also include a heat-conducting column 372 arranged between the inner wall of the heating element 35 and the outer wall of the nozzle 30. The heat-conducting column 372 is preferably set to an annular structure to adapt to the columnar structure of the nozzle 30 and the annular structure of the heating element 35, so that the heating element 35 is surrounded and sleeved on the outer wall of the heat-conducting column 372. It can be observed that the outer wall of the nozzle 30 is provided with an external thread 301, and the inner wall of the heat-conducting column 372 is provided with an internal thread (not shown in the figure) adapted to the above-mentioned external thread 301. By screwing the external thread 301 and the internal thread together to set the heat-conducting column 372 with an annular structure between the nozzle 30 and the heating element 35, the heat-conducting column 372 can be used to evenly transfer the heat generated by the annular structure of the heating element 35 to the consumables in the nozzle 30, thereby achieving uniform heating of the consumables.

[0049] As an optional embodiment, it also includes a thermal seat 37 for fixing the above-mentioned thermal conductive column 372. The embodiment of the present application will set the thermal seat 37 between the inner wall of the heating element 35 and the outer wall of the nozzle 30 to prevent direct contact between the heating element 35 and the nozzle 30. It can be observed that the thermal seat 37 includes a fixed block 371 and a thermal conductive column 372 set on the fixed block 371, wherein the nozzle 30 is set through the fixed block 371, so that the heat generated by the heating element 35 is evenly transferred to the nozzle 30 from all directions through the thermal seat 37, thereby achieving uniform heating of the outer wall of the nozzle 30, avoiding the traditional heating rod from heating the local part of the nozzle 30, resulting in uneven heating of the consumables and affecting the printing effect.

[0050] Furthermore, it can be observed that the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 provided in the present application also include a feed pipe 31 for accessing consumables. The present application sets one end of the feed pipe 31 for accessing consumables, and sets the other end of the feed pipe 31 to be connected to the nozzle 30 of the corresponding nozzle assembly, so as to introduce the consumables into the interior of the nozzle 30 through the feed pipe 31.

[0051] In a specific embodiment provided in the present application, please continue to refer to Figure 7. The heat-conducting column 372 provided in the present application includes a first heat-conducting column 373 and a second heat-conducting column 374 that are interconnected, and the diameter of the first heat-conducting column 373 is larger than the diameter of the second heat-conducting column 374. The first heat-conducting column 373 is directly fixed above the fixed block 371, and the second heat-conducting column 374 is arranged above the first heat-conducting column 373. At the same time, the heating element 35 is surrounded and sleeved on the outer wall of the first heat-conducting column 373. At this time, the first heat-conducting column 373 is arranged between the nozzle 30 and the annular heating element 35 to achieve thermal coupling between the heating element 35 and the outer wall of the first heat-conducting column 373. After the nozzle 30 passes through the fixed block 371, it is correspondingly screwed on the inner wall of the first heat-conducting column 373, so that the consumables in the nozzle 30 are heated faster and more evenly. The above-mentioned first heat-conducting column 373 is preferably set to copper or aluminum.

[0052] Furthermore, a first connecting ring 32 is provided at one end of the feed pipe 31 close to the nozzle 30. By setting the first connecting ring 32 inside the second heat-conducting column 374, the feed pipe 31 is connected to the nozzle 30 set in the first heat-conducting column 373. At this time, the feed pipe 31 is connected to the nozzle set in the first heat-conducting column 373 through the first connecting ring 32 set in the second heat-conducting column 374. The present application also has a connecting bolt 33 wrapped around the outer wall of the first connecting ring 32 to improve the connection stability between the feed pipe 31 and the heat-conducting column 372.

[0053] Please refer to Figure 8, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of the temperature detection component 36 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. The heating component 35 provided in the present application is preferably configured as a heating ring, and the heating ring is configured as a hollow structure so that it can be mounted on the outer wall of the heat-conducting column 372 to uniformly heat the consumables in the nozzle 30 from all angles.

[0054] Furthermore, the present application is also provided with a temperature detection element 36 for detecting the temperature of the heating element 35. The temperature detection element 36 can be set as a temperature detection probe, or a thermistor or other temperature detection element 36 that can realize temperature detection. It is preferably set on the outer wall of the heating element 35 and the height does not exceed the height of the first heat-conducting column 373, so as to more accurately detect the temperature of the consumables inside the first heat-conducting column 373 in real time, so as to adjust the heating temperature in time.

[0055] Specifically, it can be observed that a first through hole 375 is provided at a position of the fixed block 371 near the heat-conducting column 372. By setting one end of the temperature detection element 36 in the first through hole 375, the temperature detection element 36 can be set close to the outer wall of the heating element 35. At the same time, a second lead 361 is also provided at the other end of the temperature detection element 36. The second lead 361 extends in a direction away from the nozzle 30. The temperature detection is performed by connecting an external power supply to the second lead 361 to cooperate with the temperature detection element 36.

[0056] As an optional embodiment, please refer to Figure 9, which is a structural schematic diagram of the heat dissipation block 44 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. The present application is also provided with a heat dissipation block 44 for providing heat dissipation to the nozzle 30. The present application corresponds to the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2, respectively, and is provided with corresponding heat dissipation blocks 44. The heat dissipation block 44 is set at the end of the feed pipe 31 away from the nozzle 30. The heat dissipation block 44 includes a plurality of stacked and spaced heat dissipation fins 441, and also includes a heat dissipation element 64 detachably mounted on the side wall of the heat dissipation block 44. The heat dissipation element 64 is preferably provided in the form of a heat dissipation fan, thereby accelerating the gas flow rate between the heat dissipation fins 441 and improving the heat dissipation efficiency.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 11, which is a structural schematic diagram of the connecting hole 443 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. It can be observed that the first mounting hole 442, the connecting hole 443 and the second mounting hole 444 are sequentially provided inside the heat dissipation block 44, and the connecting hole 443 is set between the above-mentioned first mounting hole 442 and the second mounting hole 444 to connect the first mounting hole 442 and the second mounting hole 444. Please refer to Figure 12, which is a cross-sectional view of the heat dissipation block 44 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. It can be observed that the inner diameter of the connecting hole 443 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first mounting hole 442, and is also smaller than the inner diameter of the second mounting hole 444, and the inner diameter of the connecting hole 443 needs to meet the normal passage of the consumables.

[0058] Furthermore, corresponding material guide pipes 65 are provided above the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2. The first mounting hole 442 is used for entering the material guide pipe 65. The other end of the material guide pipe 65 extends in a direction away from the nozzle 30. The end of the delivery pipe 31 away from the nozzle 30 is connected to a second connecting ring 34. The second connecting ring 34 is set inside the second mounting hole 444 of the heat dissipation block 44, so that the delivery pipe 31 is connected to the material guide pipe 365 set in the first mounting hole 442.

[0059] Preferably, in order to enable the first nozzle assembly 1 to move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly 2, the present application configures the material guide pipe 65 disposed above the first nozzle assembly 1 as a retractable material guide pipe.

[0060] Please refer to Figure 10, which is a structural diagram of the outer shell 40 of the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. In the present application, a first lead 351 is provided on the outer wall of the heating element 35, and the first lead 351 is extended in a direction away from the nozzle 30 so as to perform temperature detection by connecting to an external power supply in conjunction with the temperature detection element 36.

[0061] The present application also provides an outer shell 40 for housing the above-mentioned heat-conducting seat 37, temperature detection component 36 and nozzle 30. Since the bottom of the nozzle 30 is provided with a discharge hole 302 for extruding filamentary consumables at high temperature, a discharge port 41 for the discharge hole 302 to extrude the consumables is provided at a position of the outer shell 40 corresponding to the bottom of the nozzle 30. At the same time, a first lead hole 42 for the first lead wire 351 to pass through is provided at a position corresponding to the heating component 35, and a second lead hole 43 for the second lead wire 361 to pass through is provided at a position on the side wall of the outer shell 40 corresponding to the temperature detection component 36. The above-mentioned first lead wire 351 passes through the first lead hole 42, and the second lead wire 361 passes through the second lead hole 43, and then power is supplied to an external power supply.

[0062] It should be noted that the nozzle 30 provided in the present application is preferably set to a brass nozzle with good ductility, high thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity. The inner wall of the brass nozzle 30 is set to a smooth inner wall without burrs to avoid the phenomenon of consumables being clogged due to the roughness of the discharge hole 302 caused by oxidation of the inner wall; the outer shell 40 provided in the present application is preferably made of thermal insulation material to reduce the diffusion of heat generated by the heating element 35, so that the heat generated by the heating element 35 is concentrated on the nozzle 30, thereby improving the thermal insulation effect inside the shell.

[0063] During use, the first lead 351 and the second lead 361 are connected to an external current, and the external current drives the heating element 35 to generate heat, and the heating element 35 transfers the heat to the nozzle 30 through the heat-conducting seat 37. When the consumable enters the nozzle 30 from the guide tube 65 and the delivery tube 31, the uniform heat transmitted from multiple directions heats the consumable entering the nozzle 30, so that the consumable is quickly heated and melted, and finally extruded from the discharge hole 302. At the same time, the present application is provided with a temperature detection element 36 to detect the temperature of the nozzle 30 so that the heating temperature can be adjusted in time during the printing process. At the same time, a heat sink 44 and a heat sink 64 are provided between the guide tube 65 and the delivery tube 31 to dissipate heat for the conveyed consumable, thereby avoiding the occurrence of wire drawing due to excessive temperature before the consumable is conveyed to the inside of the nozzle 30; by providing a ring-shaped heating element 35, the consumable inside the nozzle 30 is heated from multiple angles, so that the consumable is heated more evenly during the heating process, thereby effectively improving the quality of 3D printing.

[0064] Please refer to Figure 2, which is a structural diagram of the extrusion assembly 60 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. Next, the switching assembly 3 that can drive the first nozzle assembly 1 to move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly 2 is described in detail. The switching assembly 3 provided in this application includes a driving member 11, and a moving member 12 that is transmission-connected to the driving member 11. The first nozzle assembly 30 is connected to one end of the above-mentioned moving member 12 through a sliding assembly 20. In an embodiment of the present application, the driving member 11 is configured to drive the moving member 12 to move in the second direction to drive the first nozzle assembly 30 to move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly 40, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction; in a specific embodiment, the driving member 11 is configured to drive the moving member 12 to move back and forth, thereby driving the first nozzle assembly 30 to move up and down relative to the second nozzle assembly 40.

[0065] The first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 provided in the present application can heat the solid-state consumables entering the nozzle 30 into a molten state, and then extrude the molten wire from the discharge hole 302 to cooperate with the 3D printer for printing. At the same time, the first nozzle assembly 1 can move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly under the action of the switching assembly 3, thereby meeting the printing requirements of dual nozzle switching.

[0066] As an optional embodiment, please refer to Figure 3, which is a structural schematic diagram of the switching component 3 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. The above-mentioned moving part 11 includes a center gear 121 that is transmission-connected to the driving shaft 111 of the driving part 11, and a rack 122 that meshes with the center gear 121; specifically, please refer to Figure 4, which is a structural schematic diagram of the sliding component 20 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. The first side of the rack 122 is provided with an engaging portion 123, and the engaging portion 123 is parallel to the rack 122 to prevent the rack 122 from offsetting during movement, and an outer tooth profile 124 that is compatible with the above-mentioned center gear 121 is provided on the engaging portion 123, thereby realizing the meshing connection between the center gear 121 and the meshing portion 123 of the rack 122.

[0067] The central gear 121 is driven to rotate by the drive shaft 111 of the drive member 11, and the outer tooth profile 124 is driven to drive the rack 122 to reciprocate in the second direction relative to the drive member 11. In a specific embodiment, the outer tooth profile 124 is recessed in the first side, and the length of the outer tooth profile 124 is configured to allow the first nozzle assembly 30 to move to a preset height relative to the second nozzle assembly 40 in the first direction. Since the present application is provided with an inwardly recessed meshing portion 123, and the outer tooth profile 124 that is adapted to the central gear 121 is only provided on the meshing portion 123, when the rack 122 moves back and forth to the distance engaged by the outer tooth profile 124, it will stop moving due to the obstruction of the outer wall of the rack 122, thereby limiting the forward and backward movement distance of the rack 122. At this time, the first nozzle assembly 30 moves to a preset height relative to the second nozzle assembly 40 in the first direction, further limiting the movement distance of the first nozzle assembly 30 in the first direction.

[0068] Preferably, the driving member 11 can be set to a driving motor or a servo. Any form of the driving member 11 that can drive the central gear 121 to rotate is feasible, and this application does not impose further restrictions on this.

[0069] Furthermore, in order to prevent the rack 122 from shifting in position when moving in the second direction, the present application not only provides a meshing portion 123 parallel to the extension direction of the rack 122, but also provides a rack pressure plate 13 on the second side of the rack 122. It can be observed that the first side and the second side are arranged relative to each other. The present application sets the rack pressure plate 13 against the rack 122 to limit the moving direction of the rack 122 in the second direction. The rack 122 is limited by the rack pressure plate 13 to limit the above-mentioned rack 122 between the center gear 121 and the rack pressure plate 13, without affecting the movement of the rack 122 relative to the driving member 11 in the second direction, and at the same time avoiding the rack 122 from shifting during movement, affecting the moving trajectory of the sliding assembly 20.

[0070] As an optional embodiment, please refer to FIG5 , which is a schematic structural diagram of the engaging portion 123 in the dual-jet printhead provided in an embodiment of the present application. It can be observed that the sliding assembly 20 includes a sliding member 21 disposed above the first nozzle assembly 30. The sidewall of the sliding member 21 is provided with a guide groove 22. At the same time, a guide member 14 capable of moving within the guide groove 22 is provided at the first end of the moving member 12. The guide member 14 passes through and is disposed within the guide groove 22, so that the movement of the moving member 12 in the second direction is converted into the movement of the first nozzle assembly 30 in the first direction through the guide groove 22 and the guide member 14.

[0071] Of course, the sliding member 21 can also be set at the first end of the moving member 12, and a guide groove 22 can be opened on the side wall of the sliding member 21. The guide member 14 can be set at the position of the first nozzle assembly 30 close to the first end of the moving member 12, and the positional relationship of the guide member 14 passing through and being set in the guide groove 22 can also be satisfied. Similarly, the movement of the moving member 12 in the second direction can be converted into the movement of the first nozzle assembly 30 in the first direction through the guide groove 22 and the guide member 14.

[0072] It should be noted that no matter whether the sliding member 21 and the guide member 14 are set at the first end of the movable member 12, or are set at the position of the first end of the movable member 12 corresponding to the first nozzle assembly 30, as long as the guide member 14 passes through and is set in the guide groove 22 and can move in the guide groove 22, the movement of the movable member 12 in the second direction can be converted into the movement of the first nozzle assembly 30 in the first direction. Therefore, this application does not impose further restrictions on the specific setting positions of the sliding member 21 and the guide member 14, and the above setting methods are all feasible.

[0073] Preferably, the guide member 14 includes a roller 141 arranged in the guide groove 22 and an axle pin 142 arranged through the roller 141. The roller 141 can roll in the guide groove 22 to achieve position movement. The contact surface between the guide groove 22 and the roller 141 is preferably smoothly set to avoid unnecessary friction overcome by the rolling member 141 when sliding in the guide groove 22, thereby improving the stability between the sliding member 21 and the moving member 12 when relative movement occurs.

[0074] It can be observed that the first end of the movable member 12 is provided with an extension portion 15 extending in the horizontal direction. In this application, the axle pin 142 passes through the roller 141 provided in the corresponding guide groove 22 and extends to the extension portion 15 at the corresponding position. When the movable member 12 moves back and forth, the roller 141 is driven to slide along the guide groove 22, and the movement of the movable member 12 in the second direction is converted into the movement of the first nozzle assembly 30 in the first direction.

[0075] In a specific embodiment provided in the present application, in order to improve the stability of the connection between the sliding assembly 20 and the rack 122, the present application provides two extensions 15 extending in the horizontal direction at the first end of the movable member 12, and two sliding members 21 are provided above the first nozzle assembly 30. The side walls of each sliding member 21 are provided with a guide groove 22. At this time, the two sliding members 21 abut against the outer side walls of the two extensions 15, thereby achieving the first end of the movable member 12 being clamped between the two sliding members 21. Each guide groove 22 is provided with a corresponding roller 141 and an axle pin 142 set through the roller 141. It can be observed that the axle pin 142 passes through the roller 141 set in the corresponding guide groove 22 and extends to the extension 15 at the corresponding position.

[0076] In this application, a sliding member 21 and a guide member 14 are provided so that the first nozzle assembly 30 can move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly 40. Since the second nozzle assembly 40 is not provided with a corresponding driving assembly 10 and sliding assembly 20, that is, the distance of the second nozzle assembly 40 relative to the printing object during the printing process is certain, the driving assembly 10 and sliding assembly 20 provided in the first nozzle assembly 30 can change the distance of the first nozzle assembly 30 relative to the printing object during the printing process, thereby achieving the effect that the first nozzle assembly 30 can move in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly 40, so that the first nozzle assembly 30 and the second nozzle assembly 40 can be staggered in the vertical direction when working, thereby avoiding the nozzle assembly scratching the printed model during the printing process.

[0077] It can also be understood that the first nozzle assembly 30 and the second nozzle assembly 40 provided in the present application can work alternately. When the first nozzle assembly 30 is working, the first nozzle assembly 30 is driven to move downward by the driving assembly 10 and the sliding assembly 20. At this time, the distance between the first nozzle assembly 30 and the printing object is smaller than the distance between the second nozzle assembly 40 and the printing object, and the second nozzle assembly 40 is in a paused state, thereby preventing the second nozzle assembly 40 from scratching the printing object during the printing process of the first nozzle assembly 30; when the second nozzle assembly 40 is working, the first nozzle assembly 30 is driven to move upward by the driving assembly 10 and the sliding assembly 20. At this time, the distance between the first nozzle assembly 30 and the printing object is greater than the distance between the second nozzle assembly 40 and the printing object, and the first nozzle assembly 30 is in a paused state, thereby preventing the first nozzle assembly 30 from scratching the printing object during the printing process of the second nozzle assembly 40, thereby improving the printing accuracy; in a specific embodiment provided in the present application, the above-mentioned printing correspondence can be understood as a printing model.

[0078] Please continue to refer to Figure 3. When the guide member 14 moves to the first position of the guide groove 22, the distance between the first nozzle assembly 30 and the printing object is smaller than the distance between the second nozzle assembly 40 and the printing object. At this time, the first nozzle assembly 30 is in a working state. When the guide member 14 moves to the second position of the guide groove 22 (not shown in the figure), that is, when the roller 141 of the guide member 14 is located at the end opposite to the position of the roller 141 in the above-mentioned first position, the distance between the first nozzle assembly 30 and the printing object is greater than the distance between the second nozzle assembly 40 and the printing object. At this time, the second nozzle assembly 40 is in a working state.

[0079] As an optional embodiment, please refer to Figure 13, which is a structural diagram of the frame 50 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. The present application also provides a frame 50 for mounting a drive assembly 10, and the frame 50 is correspondingly provided with a slot 53 for the rack 122 to move back and forth, so that the rack 122 can achieve reciprocating movement in the second direction inside the frame 50 through the slot 53. The driving member 11 is provided at the bottom of the frame 50, and the driving shaft 111 of the driving member 11 passes through the frame 50 and is connected to the central gear 121 which is also provided inside the frame 50. At the same time, the rack pressure plate 13 is mounted on the frame 50, so that the rack 122 is clamped between the central gear 121 and the rack pressure plate 13, so that the rack 122 can achieve reciprocating movement in the second direction along the slot 53 under the driving action of the driving member 11.

[0080] Please refer to Figure 14, which is a structural diagram of the dual-jet print head stop baffle 52 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In order to achieve the guiding effect on the sliding assembly 20, the present application provides a guide column 51 extending downward from one end of the frame 50 close to the sliding assembly 20, and provides a guide hole 24 for the guide column 51 to pass through when the sliding assembly 20 moves up and down on the sliding member 21 of the sliding assembly 20, that is, one end of the guide column 51 is fixed on the frame 50, and the other end extends along the side wall of the first nozzle assembly 30 after passing through the guide hole 24 at the corresponding position.

[0081] Please refer to Figure 6, which is a structural diagram of the guide hole 24 in the dual-jet print head provided in an embodiment of the present application. When the length of the guide column 51 is too long, it is also necessary to set a guide hole 24 for the guide column 51 to pass through on the side wall of the first nozzle assembly 30. By setting the guide column 51 and the guide hole 24 at the corresponding position, the moving trajectory of the first nozzle assembly 30 is limited to the first direction.

[0082] Please continue to refer to Figure 14. The present application also provides a stop plate 52 on the side wall of the frame 50 close to the sliding assembly 20. The shape of the top protrusion 521 of the stop plate 52 is adapted to the inner wall of the two extensions 15, and the top protrusion 521 of the stop plate 52 needs to be set along the moving trajectory of the rack 122 in the moving member 12 in the second direction to limit the rack 122 from moving in the second direction. The top protrusion 521 of the stop plate 52 does not exceed the top protrusion 521 of the stop plate 52. When the guide member 14 slides to the first position of the guide groove 22, the top protrusion 521 of the stop plate 52 just abuts between the two extensions 15 set on the rack 122, and the height of the top protrusion 521 is greater than the bottom of the rack 122, thereby limiting the rack 122 from continuing to move in the second direction.

[0083] Of course, the sliding member 21 of the sliding assembly 20 is also provided with a stop hole 25 for the stop plate 52 to pass through when the sliding assembly 20 moves in the first direction. It can be observed that one end of the stop plate 52 is fixed to the side wall of the frame 50, and the other end passes through the stop hole 25 at the corresponding position and extends along the side wall of the first nozzle assembly 30. When the stop hole 25 is too long, a stop hole 25 for the stop hole 25 to pass through is also required to be provided on the side wall of the first nozzle assembly 30. By providing the stop plate 52 and the stop hole 25 at the corresponding position, the movement of the first nozzle assembly 30 is limited to the first direction, and the forward and backward movement of the rack 122 is limited between the first position and the second position.

[0084] As an optional embodiment, please continue to refer to Figure 2. The dual-jet print head provided in this application can be used in conjunction with the extrusion assembly 60 commonly available on the market. Two extrusion assemblies 60 can be set up on the frame 50, and they can be set up above the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2 respectively, for providing consumables to the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2. In actual application, the first nozzle assembly 1 and the extrusion assembly 60 corresponding to the upper position need to be connected through a retractable material guide pipe 65 to meet the requirement that the first nozzle assembly 1 can move up and down relative to the second nozzle assembly 2. Since the second nozzle assembly 2 does not need to move up and down, it can be connected to the extrusion assembly 60 corresponding to the upper position through an ordinary material guide pipe 65.

[0085] It should be noted that the above-mentioned extrusion component 60 is used to extrude the consumables to the first nozzle component 1 and the second nozzle component 2 at the corresponding positions, so as to cooperate with the corresponding nozzle components to realize 3D printing. Therefore, as long as any extrusion component 60 selected can achieve the above-mentioned technical effects, this application does not elaborate on or limit the specific structure of the extrusion component 60, and those skilled in the art should be aware of this.

[0086] In a specific embodiment provided in the present application, please refer to Figure 15, which is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the dual-jet print head provided in the embodiment of the present application. The present application is also provided with a front shell 62 and a rear shell 63 for providing protection for the above-mentioned first nozzle assembly 1, the second nozzle assembly 2 and the switching assembly 3. By arranging the first nozzle assembly 1, the second nozzle assembly 2 and the switching assembly 3 and the corresponding extrusion assembly 60 in the space enclosed by the front shell 62 and the rear shell 63, the influence of long-term exposure to air on the various components in the dual-jet print head is avoided, thereby improving the service life of the dual-jet print head.

[0087] Furthermore, the present application also provides heat sinks 64 at positions corresponding to the side walls of the first nozzle assembly 1 and the second nozzle assembly 2, at positions corresponding to the driving member 11, and at positions corresponding to the first nozzle assembly 30, the second nozzle assembly 40, and the two extrusion assemblies 60, so as to dissipate heat in a timely manner during the 3D printing process. Preferably, the heat sink 64 can be configured as a fan. Of course, other heat sinks 64 that can achieve heat dissipation are also feasible, and the present application does not impose further restrictions on this.

[0088] Based on the above-mentioned dual-jet print head, the present application further provides a 3D printer, including the dual-jet print head provided in the above-mentioned embodiment. The structure and principle of the dual-jet print head can refer to the above-mentioned embodiment. Since the 3D printer provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the dual-jet print head in the above-mentioned embodiment, the 3D printer provided in the embodiment of the present application has all the beneficial effects of the dual-jet print head in the above-mentioned embodiment, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0089] The dual-jet print head and 3D printer provided in the embodiment of the present application heat the consumables inside the nozzle from multiple angles by setting a heating element with an annular structure, so that the consumables are heated more evenly during the heating process, the consumables are quickly heated and melted, and finally extruded from the discharge hole; a temperature detection element is set to detect the temperature of the nozzle so that the heating temperature can be adjusted in time during the printing process to ensure the extrusion quality of the consumables; a heat sink and a heat sink are set between the material guide pipe and the material delivery pipe to dissipate heat for the conveyed consumables, so as to avoid the wire drawing phenomenon caused by excessive temperature before the consumables are conveyed to the inside of the nozzle; the first nozzle assembly connected to the movable member through the sliding assembly is driven relative to the second nozzle assembly by driving the movable member to move in the second direction Moving in the first direction enables the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly to work alternately, thereby preventing the printed model from being scratched by the other nozzle assembly that is not in working state when one nozzle assembly is in working state; the outer tooth profile is recessed in the first side edge, and the length of the outer tooth profile is configured to allow the first nozzle assembly to move to a preset height relative to the second nozzle assembly in the first direction, thereby limiting the moving distance of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction to the preset height; by setting up a frame, a number of heat dissipation parts are provided between the front shell and the rear shell of the frame, which can realize the switching use of the dual nozzle assemblies while also making the consumables in the nozzle more evenly heated during the heating process, thereby effectively improving the 3D printing quality.

[0090] It can be understood that the various technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the various technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0091] The above embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments for illustrating the principles of the present application, but the present application is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit and substance of the present application, and such modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A dual-jet print head, characterized in that: It includes a first nozzle assembly, a second nozzle assembly and a switching assembly; The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly each include a nozzle and a heating element thermally coupled to the nozzle; The switching assembly is configured to drive the first nozzle assembly to move in a first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly.

2. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly also include a heat-conducting column arranged between the inner wall of the heating element and the outer wall of the nozzle, and the heating element is surrounded by the outer wall of the heat-conducting column to transfer the heat generated by the heating element to the nozzle through the heat-conducting column.

3. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a temperature detection member, and the temperature detection member is disposed close to the outer side wall of the heating member.

4. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a material delivery pipe for receiving consumables, and the material delivery pipe is connected to the nozzle of the corresponding nozzle assembly; The heat-conducting column includes a first heat-conducting column and a second heat-conducting column, the diameter of the first heat-conducting column is larger than the diameter of the second heat-conducting column, and the heating element is thermally coupled to the outer wall of the first heat-conducting column; the end of the feed pipe close to the nozzle is connected to a first connecting ring, and the first connecting ring is arranged inside the second heat-conducting column to connect the feed pipe to the nozzle arranged in the first heat-conducting column.

5. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that: A heat sink is provided at one end of the feed pipe away from the nozzle, the heat sink comprises a plurality of heat sink fins stacked and spaced apart, and a material guide pipe connected to the feed pipe at a corresponding position is provided through the heat sink; Wherein, the material guide pipe arranged above the first nozzle assembly is a telescopic material guide pipe to cooperate with the movement of the first nozzle assembly relative to the second nozzle assembly in the first direction.

6. A dual-jet print head according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The switching assembly includes a driving member and a moving member drivingly connected to the driving member, and the first nozzle assembly is connected to a first end of the moving member through a sliding assembly; The moving member includes a central gear connected to the driving shaft of the driving member, and a rack meshing with the central gear. A meshing portion is provided at the first side of the rack, and the meshing portion is provided with an external tooth profile matched with the central gear. The central gear is driven to rotate by the driving member so that the rack reciprocates in a second direction relative to the driving member; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

7. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that: The outer tooth profile is recessed in the first side edge, and the length of the outer tooth profile is configured to allow the first nozzle assembly to move to a preset height in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly; When the first nozzle assembly moves to a preset height, the central gear abuts against the meshing portion of the rack to limit the first nozzle assembly that moves to the preset height.

8. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The sliding assembly includes a sliding member arranged on the first nozzle assembly, a guide groove is formed on the side wall of the sliding member, and a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove is formed on the first end of the movable member; the guide member passes through and is arranged in the guide groove to convert the movement of the movable member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member.

9. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The sliding assembly includes a sliding member arranged at the first end of the moving member, a guide groove is provided on the side wall of the sliding member, and a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove is provided at a position of the first nozzle assembly close to the first end of the moving member; the guide member passes through and is arranged in the guide groove to convert the movement of the moving member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member.

10. A dual-jet print head as claimed in claim 8 or 9, characterized in that: The guide member includes a roller arranged in the guide groove and an axle pin passing through the roller. The first end of the movable member is provided with an extension portion extending in the horizontal direction. After the axle pin passes through the roller arranged in the corresponding guide groove, it extends to the extension portion at the corresponding position.

11. A dual-jet print head according to any one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that: A rack pressure plate is provided on the second side of the rack, the first side and the second side are arranged opposite to each other, and the rack pressure plate is arranged in contact with the rack to limit the moving direction of the rack in the second direction and limit the rack between the central gear and the rack pressure plate.

12. A 3D printer, characterized in that: The 3D printer includes a dual-jet print head; The dual-jet print head includes a first nozzle assembly, a second nozzle assembly and a switching assembly; The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly each include a nozzle and a heating element thermally coupled to the nozzle; The switching assembly is configured to drive the first nozzle assembly to move in a first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly.

13. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly also include a heat-conducting column arranged between the inner wall of the heating element and the outer wall of the nozzle, and the heating element is surrounded by the outer wall of the heat-conducting column to transfer the heat generated by the heating element to the nozzle through the heat-conducting column.

14. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 12 or 13, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a temperature detection member, and the temperature detection member is disposed close to the outer side wall of the heating member.

15. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 13 or 14, characterized in that: The first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly further include a material delivery pipe for receiving consumables, and the material delivery pipe is connected to the nozzle of the corresponding nozzle assembly; The heat-conducting column includes a first heat-conducting column and a second heat-conducting column, the diameter of the first heat-conducting column is larger than the diameter of the second heat-conducting column, and the heating element is thermally coupled to the outer wall of the first heat-conducting column; the end of the feed pipe close to the nozzle is connected to a first connecting ring, and the first connecting ring is arranged inside the second heat-conducting column to connect the feed pipe to the nozzle arranged in the first heat-conducting column.

16. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that: A heat sink is provided at one end of the feed pipe away from the nozzle, the heat sink comprises a plurality of heat sink fins stacked and spaced apart, and a material guide pipe connected to the feed pipe at a corresponding position is provided through the heat sink; Wherein, the material guide pipe arranged above the first nozzle assembly is a telescopic material guide pipe to cooperate with the movement of the first nozzle assembly relative to the second nozzle assembly in the first direction.

17. A 3D printer according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that: The switching assembly includes a driving member and a moving member drivingly connected to the driving member, and the first nozzle assembly is connected to a first end of the moving member through a sliding assembly; The moving member includes a central gear connected to the driving shaft of the driving member, and a rack meshing with the central gear. A meshing portion is provided at the first side of the rack, and the meshing portion is provided with an external tooth profile matched with the central gear. The central gear is driven to rotate by the driving member so that the rack reciprocates in a second direction relative to the driving member; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

18. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that: The outer tooth profile is recessed in the first side edge, and the length of the outer tooth profile is configured to allow the first nozzle assembly to move to a preset height in the first direction relative to the second nozzle assembly; When the first nozzle assembly moves to a preset height, the central gear abuts against the meshing portion of the rack to limit the first nozzle assembly that moves to the preset height.

19. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 17 or 18, characterized in that: The sliding assembly includes a sliding member arranged on the first nozzle assembly, a guide groove is provided on a side wall of the sliding member, and a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove is provided at the first end of the moving member; the guide member passes through and is arranged in the guide groove, so as to convert the movement of the moving member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member; Alternatively, the sliding assembly includes a sliding member arranged at the first end of the moving member, a guide groove is provided on the side wall of the sliding member, and a guide member capable of moving in the guide groove is provided at a position of the first nozzle assembly close to the first end of the moving member; the guide member passes through and is arranged in the guide groove to convert the movement of the moving member in the second direction into the movement of the first nozzle assembly in the first direction through the guide groove and the guide member.

20. A 3D printer as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that: The guide member includes a roller arranged in the guide groove and an axle pin passing through the roller. The first end of the movable member is provided with an extension portion extending in the horizontal direction. After the axle pin passes through the roller arranged in the corresponding guide groove, it extends to the extension portion at the corresponding position.

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