Print head device and 3D printer

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of 3D printing. Provided are a print head device and a 3D printer. The print head device comprises a nozzle switching device and an extrusion mechanism. The nozzle switching device comprises a nozzle mounting member, a plurality of nozzle assemblies, and a nozzle switching member. The plurality of nozzle assemblies are spaced apart and arranged on the nozzle mounting member, each nozzle assembly being configured to be movable between a standby position and a printing position with respect to the nozzle mounting member. The nozzle switching member is provided on the nozzle mounting member in a manner of being movable in a first direction; the nozzle switching member is configured to abut against each nozzle assembly; and the nozzle switching member comprises a plurality of pushing portions, each pushing portion being provided individually corresponding to one nozzle assembly. The extrusion mechanism comprises a driving member and a plurality of driven members, wherein the driving member is rotatably connected to the nozzle mounting member of the nozzle switching device, the plurality of driven members are respectively and rotatably connected to the plurality of nozzle assemblies of the nozzle switching device, and the driven member on the nozzle assembly positioned at the printing position is fitted to the driving member.

Description

Printhead assembly and 3D printer

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410703586.1, filed on May 31, 2024, and Chinese Patent Application No. 202421244641.7, filed on May 31, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of 3D printing technology, and more specifically, to printhead devices and 3D printers. Background Technology

[0004] Existing printhead switching devices typically use motors to switch printheads. However, motors generally have a large weight, which increases the weight of the printhead switching device. In actual printing, the moving speed of the printhead switching device needs to be reduced, which can easily lead to a decrease in printing efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a printhead assembly and a 3D printer to address some known technical problems that printhead assemblies are prone to causing low printing efficiency.

[0006] The embodiments of this application are implemented as follows:

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a printhead device, comprising: a printhead switching device, the printhead switching device including a nozzle mounting member, a plurality of nozzle assemblies, and a nozzle switching member; the plurality of nozzle assemblies are spaced apart from each other on the nozzle mounting member, each nozzle assembly being configured to move relative to the nozzle mounting member between a standby position and a printing position; the nozzle switching member is movably disposed on the nozzle mounting member along a first direction, the nozzle switching member being configured to abut against each of the nozzle assemblies, the nozzle switching member including a plurality of pushing parts, each pushing part being individually disposed corresponding to one of the nozzle assemblies; wherein, when the printhead switching device moves to the first position... When the nozzle switching device is in position, the nozzle switching component is triggered; when the printhead switching device moves from the first position to the second position, the nozzle switching component moves relative to the nozzle mounting component, so that at least one of the pushing parts pushes the corresponding nozzle assembly to the printing position; the extrusion mechanism includes a driving component and a plurality of driven components, the driving component is rotatably connected to the nozzle mounting component of the printhead switching device, and the plurality of driven components are rotatably connected to a plurality of nozzle assemblies of the printhead switching device, and the driven component on the nozzle assembly located at the printing position cooperates with the driving component to deliver consumables to the nozzle assembly.

[0008] According to the printhead device of this application, when a nozzle assembly needs to be switched, the printhead switching device moves from a first position to a second position. The nozzle switching component slides relative to the nozzle mounting component, thereby causing the pushing unit to push at least one nozzle assembly away from the standby position until it enters the printing position, while the other nozzle assemblies remain in the standby position. Thus, the nozzle assembly switching of this application does not require an additional power source, reducing the weight of the printhead switching device, increasing the moving speed of the printhead switching device between the first and second positions, reducing the inertial force experienced by the printhead switching device when it stops moving, and significantly improving the accuracy of the printhead switching device's position, thereby improving printing efficiency and ensuring print quality.

[0009] Secondly, this application provides another printhead device, comprising: an extrusion mechanism including an active drive member, an extrusion drive wheel, and a plurality of driven components, the active drive member being connected to and driving the extrusion drive wheel to rotate, each driven component including an extrusion driven wheel; an extrusion switching mechanism including an extrusion switching member configured to selectively arrange each of the driven components in a first position or a second position; wherein, in the first position, the driven component has its extrusion driven wheel close to the extrusion drive wheel to cooperate in extruding consumables; in the second position, the driven component has its extrusion driven wheel disposed away from the extrusion drive wheel; and a printhead switching device including a nozzle mounting member, a plurality of nozzle assemblies, and a nozzle switching member; A plurality of nozzle assemblies are spaced apart from each other on the nozzle mount, each nozzle assembly being configured to move relative to the nozzle mount between a standby position and a printing position; a nozzle switching member is movably disposed on the nozzle mount along a first direction, the nozzle switching member being configured to abut against each nozzle assembly, the nozzle switching member including a plurality of pushing parts, each pushing part being individually disposed corresponding to one nozzle assembly; wherein, when the printhead switching device moves to a first position, the nozzle switching member is triggered; when the printhead switching device moves from the first position to a second position, the nozzle switching member moves relative to the nozzle mount, such that at least one of the pushing parts pushes its corresponding nozzle assembly to the printing position. In a third aspect, this application provides a 3D printer including the aforementioned printhead assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0010] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the printhead switching device of a printhead apparatus according to an embodiment of this application.

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 3D printer according to an embodiment of this application.

[0013] Figure 3 is an exploded structural diagram of the nozzle switching device in Figure 1.

[0014] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of one part of the nozzle switching device in Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another part of the nozzle switching device in Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the nozzle switching device in Figure 1 from another perspective.

[0017] Figure 7 is an exploded structural diagram of the nozzle assembly of the nozzle switching device in Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a printhead device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0019] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the printhead device in Figure 8.

[0020] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the nozzle assembly and follower of the printhead device in Figure 8.

[0021] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the installation components of the nozzle switching device in Figure 8.

[0022] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of one part of the nozzle switching device in Figure 8.

[0023] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another part of the nozzle switching device in Figure 8.

[0024] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of another part of the nozzle switching device in Figure 8.

[0025] Figure 15 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the nozzle switching device in Figure 8.

[0026] Figure 16 is a front view of a printhead device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an extrusion mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 18 is an exploded view of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17.

[0029] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17 from another perspective.

[0030] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of one part of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17.

[0031] Figure 21 is a top view of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17.

[0032] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of the driven component of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17.

[0033] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram of the nozzle mounting component of the extrusion mechanism in Figure 17.

[0034] Figure 24 is a structural schematic diagram of the nozzle mounting component in Figure 23 from another perspective.

[0035] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram of the nozzle mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 26 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the nozzle mechanism in Figure 25.

[0037] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle mechanism in Figure 25.

[0038] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a printhead device according to another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0040] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or there may be an intervening component. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "or / and" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0042] Some embodiments of this application are described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a printhead switching device 30 of a printhead apparatus according to an embodiment of this application.

[0044] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, this embodiment provides a nozzle switching device 30 for use in a 3D printer 300. The nozzle switching device 30 includes a nozzle mount 31, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 34, and a nozzle switching member 33. The plurality of nozzle assemblies 34 are spaced apart from each other on the nozzle mount 31. Each nozzle assembly 34 is configured to move relative to the nozzle mount 31 between a standby position and a printing position. The nozzle switching member 33 is movably disposed on the nozzle mount 31 along a first direction X, and is configured to abut against each nozzle assembly 34. The nozzle switching member 33 includes a plurality of pushing portions 331, each pushing portion 331 corresponding to a single nozzle assembly 34. When the nozzle switching device 30 moves to a first position, the nozzle switching member 33 is triggered. When the nozzle switching device 30 moves from the first position to a second position, the nozzle switching member 33 moves relative to the nozzle mount 31, causing at least one of the pushing portions 331 to push its corresponding nozzle assembly 34 to the printing position.

[0045] In this embodiment, when the nozzle switching device 30 needs to switch nozzle assemblies 34, it moves from a first position to a second position. The nozzle switching member 33 slides relative to the nozzle mounting member 31, thereby causing the pushing part 331 to push at least one nozzle assembly 34 away from the standby position until it enters the printing position, while the other nozzle assemblies 34 remain in the standby position. Thus, the switching of the nozzle assemblies 34 in this application does not require an additional power source, reducing the weight of the printhead switching device 30, increasing the sliding speed of the printhead switching device 30 along the first direction X, and reducing the inertial force experienced by the printhead switching device 30 when it stops moving. This significantly improves the accuracy of the printhead switching device 30's movement position, thereby improving printing efficiency and ensuring print quality.

[0046] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the nozzle switching device 30 is disposed on the frame 201, which includes two columns 2011 spaced apart along a first direction X. A nozzle mounting member 31 is movably disposed between the two columns 2011 along the first direction X. A nozzle switching member 33 is slidably disposed on the nozzle mounting member 31 along the first direction X. The first position of the nozzle switching device 30 is when the nozzle switching member 33 abuts against one of the columns 2011. At this time, when the nozzle mounting member 31 has a tendency to continue moving towards the column 2011, the column 2011 limits the nozzle switching member 33, causing the nozzle switching member 33 to have a tendency to move relative to the nozzle mounting member 31. The nozzle switching member 33 with this tendency is in the triggered state. After the nozzle switching device 30 enters the first position, the nozzle mounting member 31 continues to move towards the column 2011, causing the nozzle switching member 33 to undergo relative displacement with the nozzle mounting member 31 under the limiting action of the column 2011, and pushing the nozzle assembly 34 to move. When one of the nozzle assemblies 34 moves to the printing position under the action of the nozzle switching member 33, the nozzle switching device 30 is in the second position. The nozzle switching device 30 of this embodiment can be applied to a gantry 3D printer. In the structure of this type of 3D printer, the frame 201 is formed in the form of a gantry. In other embodiments, the nozzle switching device 30 can also be applied to a whole-machine 3D printer, a single cantilever 3D printer, an infinite Z-axis 3D printer, or a delta 3D printer. The specific structure of the frame 201 can be adjusted according to the model of the 3D printer, and will not be described in detail here.

[0047] When the printhead switching device 30 of this application switches the nozzle assembly 34, it can control the magnitude of the force exerted by the nozzle switching member 33 on the column 2011 according to the stroke required for switching different nozzle assemblies 34. This, in turn, controls the stroke and direction of the nozzle switching member 33 relative to the nozzle mounting member 31 in the first direction X, thereby enabling different nozzle assemblies 34 to move to the printing position. Simultaneously, while switching the position of the currently selected nozzle assembly 34, the nozzle assembly 34 previously in the printing position is no longer pressed by the pushing part 331 and returns to the standby position. This ensures that at most one nozzle assembly 34 is in the printing position at any given time, guaranteeing smooth printing.

[0048] Optionally, each nozzle assembly 34 is provided with a printing channel 22.

[0049] Optionally, the nozzle assembly 34 and the nozzle mounting member 31 are engaged by an elastic structure such as a spring, torsion spring or tension spring. In this way, the elastic structure can keep the nozzle assembly 34 elastically abutting against the nozzle switching member 33, thereby stably maintaining it in the printing position or the standby position.

[0050] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 1 and 3, the nozzle assembly 34 is slidably fitted to the nozzle mounting member 31 along the third direction Z. In other embodiments, the sliding direction of the nozzle assembly 34 may be located between the third direction Z and the first direction X, and its specific sliding direction can be adjusted according to actual needs. This embodiment does not specifically limit it.

[0051] Optionally, referring to Figure 2, an optical axis 203 is also provided between the two columns 2011. The optical axis 203 extends along the first direction X, and the nozzle mounting part 31 is slidably provided on the optical axis 203 along the first direction X.

[0052] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 2 and 3, the multiple nozzle assemblies 34 are divided into multiple rows of nozzle units, which are spaced apart along the second direction Y. Each row of nozzle units includes multiple nozzle assemblies 34 distributed along the first direction X. The nozzle switching member 33 also includes multiple push bars 332, which are spaced apart along the second direction Y and correspond to the multiple nozzle units. Each push bar 332 is provided with a push part 331. In the second direction Y, the push parts 331 of the multiple push bars 332 are staggered along the first direction X, so that when the nozzle switching member 33 slides relative to the nozzle mounting member 31, only one nozzle assembly 34 can enter the printing position.

[0053] In this way, it can be ensured that the nozzle switching unit 33 switches only one nozzle assembly 34 to the printing position at a time, while keeping other nozzle assemblies 34 in the standby position, thus ensuring smooth printing. At the same time, the array-distributed nozzle assemblies 34 help simplify the switching logic of the nozzle switching unit 33 and reduce the possibility of switching errors.

[0054] In this embodiment, four nozzle assemblies 34 are used as an example for explanation. Of course, the number of push bars 332, the number of push parts 331, and the number of nozzle assemblies 34 can be adjusted according to actual consumable switching requirements.

[0055] Referring to Figure 3, the four nozzle assemblies 34 are arranged in a rectangular array in the first direction X and the second direction Y. There are two push bars 332, including a first push bar 3321 and a second push bar 3322. The first push bar 3321 and the second push bar 3322 are spaced apart along the second direction Y. The first push bar 3321 has a first push portion 331a and a second push portion 331b, located at both ends of the first push bar 3321 along the first direction X. The second push bar 3322 has a third push portion 331c and a fourth push portion 331d, located at both ends of the second push bar 3322 along the first direction X. In the first direction X, the third push portion 331c and the fourth push portion 331d are spaced apart between the first push portion 331a and the second push portion 331b.

[0056] When the nozzle mounting member 31 slides close to a column 2011 along the second direction Y, the nozzle switching member 33 can abut against the column 2011 and slide relative to the nozzle mounting member 31 along the second direction Y, so that one of the first pushing part 331a, the second pushing part 331b, the third pushing part 331c and the fourth pushing part 331d pushes its corresponding nozzle assembly 34 to the printing position.

[0057] The following describes the working process of the nozzle switching component 33 in this embodiment, taking one direction of the nozzle switching component 33 along the first direction X as an example.

[0058] In the initial position, the first pushing part 331a, the second pushing part 331b, the third pushing part 331c, and the fourth pushing part 331d are all located outside the four nozzle assemblies 34. During the movement of the nozzle switching member 33 relative to the nozzle mounting member 31 along the first direction X, the first pushing part 331a first moves the first nozzle assembly 34a to the printing position. When the first pushing part 331a leaves the first nozzle assembly 34a and abuts against the second nozzle assembly 34b, the third pushing part 331c abuts against the third nozzle assembly 34c. At this time, both the second nozzle assembly 34b and the third nozzle assembly 34c enter the printing position. As the nozzle switching member 33 continues to move, the first pushing part 331a leaves the second nozzle assembly 34b, and the third pushing part 331c moves the fourth nozzle assembly 34d to the printing position. Subsequently, the first pushing part 331a, the third pushing part 331c, the second pushing part 331b, and the fourth pushing part 331d are respectively located on both sides of the nozzle mounting member 31 along the first direction X, and all four nozzle assemblies 34 are in the standby position. As the nozzle switching member 33 continues to move, the fourth pushing part 331d drives the third nozzle assembly 34c to move to the printing position. Subsequently, the fourth nozzle assembly 34d and the first nozzle assembly 34a move to the printing position under the drive of the third pushing part 331c and the fourth pushing part 331d, respectively. After the nozzle switching member 33 continues to move a certain distance, the first pushing part 331a, the third pushing part 331c, and the fourth pushing part 331d are all located on one side of the nozzle mounting member 31, and the second pushing part 331b pushes the second nozzle assembly 34b into the printing position. Finally, the nozzle switching member 33 moves to the other side of the nozzle mounting member 31 along the first direction X, and the four nozzle assemblies 34 return to the standby position.

[0059] The process by which the nozzle switching element 33 pushes the nozzle assembly 34 to switch positions in different directions and at different initial positions can be obtained without a doubt from the above description, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0060] Clearly, through the positional design of the first push bar 3321, the second push bar 3322, and the four push parts 331, a nozzle switching component 33 that moves only in the first direction X can be used to switch the nozzle assemblies 34 distributed in a matrix in the first direction X and the second direction Y. Furthermore, switching can be achieved by colliding with the frame 201, enabling individual switching of the four nozzle assemblies 34 between the printing position and the standby position. This reduces the travel distance of the nozzle switching component 33 and expands its applicability. Simultaneously, switching between different nozzle assemblies 34 via collision between the nozzle switching component 33 and the frame 201 eliminates the need for additional drive structures such as motors. This reduces the weight and size of the printhead assembly 200 along the first direction X, improving printing efficiency and accuracy, and also saves on the cost of the printhead assembly 200, resulting in significant economic benefits.

[0061] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 4, the push bar 332 is provided with a mounting plane 3323. The push part 331 protrudes from the mounting plane 3323 and includes a resisting plane 3311 and a transition arc surface 3312. The resisting plane 3311 is connected to the mounting plane 3323 through the transition arc surface 3312. Some push parts 331 (e.g., the first push part 331a and the second push part 331b) are provided with transition arc surfaces 3312 on both sides along the first direction X, while other push parts 331 (e.g., the third push part 331c and the fourth push part 331d) are provided with transition arc surfaces 3312 on only one side. The nozzle assembly 34 is provided with a roller 341, which is tangent to the resisting plane 3311, the mounting plane 3323, and the transition arc surface 3312. The abutting plane 3311 ensures that the pushing part 331 holds the nozzle assembly 34 in the printing position, preventing the nozzle assembly 34 from wobbling in the printing position. The mounting plane 3323 also holds other nozzle assemblies 34 in the standby position. During the switching process between the nozzle switching member 33 and the nozzle assembly 34, the roller 341 moves smoothly from the mounting plane 3323 to the abutting plane 3311 via the transition arc surface 3312. This reduces the wobbling of the nozzle assembly 34 during the position switching process, allowing the nozzle assembly 34 to hold the printing position more quickly after the position switch, thereby improving printing efficiency. Furthermore, because the position switching of the nozzle assembly 34 is smoother, the positional error of the nozzle 346 of the nozzle assembly 34 can be reduced, allowing it to enter the accurate printing position better. The distance between the nozzle 346 and the printing substrate 202, as well as its projection position on the printing substrate 202, are close to or the same as the preset values, thereby improving printing accuracy.

[0062] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 3, the nozzle switching component 33 further includes two fixing strips 334. The two fixing strips 334 are disposed at both ends of the first push strip 3321 and the second push strip 3322 along the first direction X, and are respectively connected to the first push strip 3321 and the second push strip 3322 to form a limiting hole 335. The four nozzle assemblies 34 are respectively inserted into the limiting hole 335 so that the nozzle switching component 33 will not fall off from the nozzle mounting component 31.

[0063] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 6, the nozzle mounting component 31 includes a bottom wall 311, a top wall 312, and two side walls 313. The bottom wall 311 and the top wall 312 are spaced apart along a third direction Z, and the two side walls 313 are spaced apart along a second direction Y. The two ends of the two side walls 313 are respectively connected to the bottom wall 311 and the top wall 312. The nozzle switching component 33 is slidably disposed on the side of the top wall 312 facing the bottom wall 311 along a first direction X. A plurality of nozzle assemblies 34 are arranged in a rectangular array between the two side walls 313. The bottom wall 311 is provided with a plurality of clearance holes 314, so that the nozzle switching component 33 pushes one of the nozzle assemblies 34 out of the clearance hole 314 to extend to the outside of the bottom wall 311 and enter the printing position, while the other nozzle assemblies 34 remain between the top wall 312 and the bottom wall 311 and remain in the standby position.

[0064] Optionally, referring to Figure 15, the top wall 312 is provided with a T-shaped groove 315, and the nozzle switching component 33 includes a T-shaped block 333. The extending direction of the T-shaped groove 315 is parallel to the first direction X. The T-shaped block 333 is slidably fitted within the T-shaped groove 315 along the first direction X. The fit between the T-shaped groove 315 and the T-shaped block 333 can limit the nozzle switching component 33 to the top wall 312 in the third direction Z, and also guide the movement of the nozzle switching component 33 along the first direction X, so as to ensure the reliability of the nozzle switching component 33 in switching the selected nozzle assembly 34. In other embodiments, the fit structure between the nozzle switching component 33 and the top wall 312 can be adjusted according to actual needs. For example, in other embodiments, the nozzle switching component 33 can also slide with the two side walls 313 along the first direction X, thereby also guiding the movement of the nozzle switching component 33.

[0065] Optionally, referring to Figures 4 to 6, the nozzle mounting component 31 also includes a plurality of guides 316, each guide 316 having a guide hole 3161 that extends through the third direction Z. Each nozzle assembly 34 is slidably fitted into a guide hole 3161 along the third direction Z, thereby allowing the nozzle assembly 34 to move more accurately along the third direction Z under the drive of the nozzle switching component 33, thus improving the accuracy of pushing the nozzle assembly 34 into the printing position and improving printing accuracy.

[0066] Optionally, in this embodiment, two guide members 316 are provided, and the two guide members 316 are spaced apart along the first direction X on the bottom wall 311. Each guide member 316 has two guide holes 3161 distributed along the second direction Y.

[0067] Optionally, referring to Figures 5 and 6, the nozzle assembly 34 includes a second guide portion 342, and the top wall 312 also has a protruding first guide portion 317. The first guide portion 317 has a guide groove 3171. The second guide portion 342 is slidably fitted in the guide groove 3171 along the third direction Z. The cooperation between the guide groove 3171 and the second guide portion 342 can guide the nozzle assembly 34 in the third direction Z and limit the nozzle assembly 34 in the first direction X to ensure that the nozzle assembly 34 will not move along the first direction X under the drive of the nozzle switching component.

[0068] Referring to Figure 6, the first guide portion 317 includes a guide protrusion 3172 and a baffle 3173. A guide groove 3171 is provided on the guide protrusion 3172, and the guide groove 3171 has openings on both the first direction X and the third direction Z. The baffle 3173 covers the opening of the guide groove 3171 in the first direction X, so that the baffle 3173 can play a stopping and limiting role in the first direction X.

[0069] Optionally, referring to Figures 4 and 5, the nozzle mounting 31 also includes a feed pipe 318, which is fixedly disposed on the top wall 312 to guide consumables through the top wall 312 and into the nozzle assembly 34.

[0070] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 7, the nozzle assembly 34 includes a nozzle support 343, a heat-conducting pipe 344, a heating pipe 345, and a nozzle 346. One end of the nozzle support 343 in the third direction Z engages with a nozzle switching component, and the other end connects to the heat-conducting pipe 344. The nozzle support 343 has a first channel, and the heat-conducting pipe 344 has a second channel, with the first channel communicating with the second channel. The nozzle 346 is connected to the end of the heat-conducting pipe 344 opposite to the nozzle support 343 and communicates with the second channel. The heating pipe 345 is sleeved on the outside of the heat-conducting pipe 344 and is used to heat the heat-conducting pipe 344, thereby heating the consumable material in the second channel to melt it and extrude it from the nozzle 346.

[0071] Optionally, referring to Figure 7, a second guide portion 342 is provided on the top of the nozzle support 343. A roller 341 is rotatably connected to the top of the nozzle support 343.

[0072] Optionally, as shown in Figure 7, the nozzle holder 343 is provided with heat dissipation fins 347 on its side to dissipate heat, ensuring that the consumables in the first channel do not melt and clog, and ensuring smooth printing.

[0073] Optionally, referring to Figure 7, the nozzle assembly 34 also includes a heat insulation sleeve 348. The heat insulation sleeve 348 is fitted on the outside of the heat conduction pipe 344 to improve the heat insulation effect of the nozzle assembly 34, reduce the cooling rate of the consumables, and ensure that the consumables are not blocked at the nozzle 346.

[0074] Optionally, referring to Figure 7, the nozzle assembly 34 also includes a second throat 3491, one end of which extends into the first channel and the other end extends into the second channel, serving as a heat insulation effect to ensure that the consumables in the first channel do not melt and become blocked.

[0075] Optionally, referring to Figure 7, the nozzle assembly 34 also includes an isolation post 3492, which is supported between the heat pipe 344 and the nozzle support 343.

[0076] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in this embodiment, the nozzle switching device 30 further includes a guiding mechanism 40. The guiding mechanism 40 is connected to the side of the nozzle mounting member 31 away from the extrusion mechanism 10. The guiding mechanism 40 has a plurality of guiding holes 41, each guiding hole 41 corresponding to a nozzle assembly 34, and each guiding hole 41 is configured to guide the nozzle 346 of a nozzle assembly 34.

[0077] The nozzle 346 of the nozzle assembly 34 is guided by the guide hole 41, so that the distance between the nozzle 346 and the printing substrate 202 and the projection position of the nozzle 346 on the printing substrate 202 are close to or the same as the preset distance and preset position, thereby ensuring the printing accuracy of the print head device 200, and also helping to save the leveling step and improve printing efficiency.

[0078] Optionally, referring to Figure 5, the guiding mechanism 40 includes a guiding plate 42 and a plurality of support columns 43, with a guiding hole 41 formed within the guiding plate 42. The support columns 43 are supported between the guiding plate 42 and the nozzle mounting member 31 to ensure the installation accuracy of the guiding plate 42.

[0079] Optionally, referring to Figure 5, the shape of the guide hole 41 is set to mimic the shape of the nozzle 346, thus ensuring the guiding effect of the guide hole 41 on the nozzle 346. For example, in this embodiment, the nozzle 346 is a cone, and the guide hole 41 is a conical hole.

[0080] Optionally, the guiding mechanism 40 also includes a covering sleeve 44. The covering sleeve 44 is located on the outside of the guiding plate 42 to provide heat insulation.

[0081] Referring to Figures 8 to 14, this application embodiment provides a printhead device 200, including a printhead switching device 30 and an extrusion mechanism 10. The printhead switching device 30 is the printhead switching device 30 of the aforementioned embodiment. The extrusion mechanism 10 includes a driving member 72 and a plurality of driven members 73. The driving member 72 is rotatably connected to the nozzle mounting member 31 of the printhead switching device 30, and the plurality of driven members 73 are rotatably connected to a plurality of nozzle assemblies 34 of the printhead switching device 30. The driven members 73 located on the nozzle assembly 34 at the printing position cooperate with the driving member 72 to deliver consumables to the nozzle assembly 34.

[0082] The printhead assembly 200 includes the printhead switching device 30 of the above embodiment, and therefore has the beneficial effects of the printhead switching device 30 of the above embodiment, which will not be described again here. Furthermore, by integrating the extrusion mechanism 10 onto the nozzle mounting member 31 and the nozzle assembly 34, different extrusion consumables can be switched simultaneously during the switching of the nozzle assembly 34's position, improving the accuracy and efficiency of consumable switching in the printhead assembly 200, thereby improving printing efficiency and printing reliability.

[0083] In other embodiments, the extrusion mechanism 10 may also be independent of the printhead switching device 30 and connected to the printhead switching device 30 via a Teflon tube, in order to reduce the weight of the printhead device 200, increase the moving speed of the printhead device 200, and improve printing efficiency.

[0084] Optionally, referring to Figure 10, the nozzle support 343 has a mounting hole 3431 at one end opposite to the nozzle assembly 34, and the follower 73 is rotatably fitted into the mounting hole 3431. The nozzle assembly 34 also includes two bearings 3493, which are disposed in the mounting hole 3431 and fixedly connected to the nozzle support 343. The two ends of the follower 73 respectively cooperate with the two bearings 3493.

[0085] In this embodiment, referring to FIG9, the extrusion mechanism 10 further includes an extrusion drive 71, which is connected to the active member 72 and is used to drive the active member 72 to rotate. The active member 72 is rotatably engaged with the driven member of the nozzle assembly 34 located at the printing position, thereby realizing the function of conveying consumables between the active member 72 and the driven member 73.

[0086] Optionally, referring to Figure 12, the extrusion drive 71 includes a drive motor 711 and a gear shaft 712. The drive motor 711 is fixed to the side wall 313, and the gear shaft 712 is connected to the drive motor 711. The gear shaft 712 is rotatably engaged with the drive member 72.

[0087] Optionally, referring to Figures 12 to 14, the extrusion mechanism 10 further includes a transmission assembly 80. One side of the transmission assembly 80 is in transmission engagement with the gear shaft 712, and the other side is in transmission engagement with the driven member 73. The transmission assembly 80 includes a transmission gear 81 and an intermediate shaft 82. The transmission gear 81 meshes with the gear shaft 712, and the intermediate shaft 82 is fixedly connected to the transmission gear 81. Both ends of the intermediate shaft are fixedly connected to two driving members 72, thus enabling the transmission gear 81 to simultaneously drive the two driving members 72 to rotate.

[0088] Optionally, referring to Figures 13 and 14, the gear shaft 712 extends along the second direction Y, the intermediate shaft 82 extends along the first direction X, and the nozzle mounting 31 further includes two support portions 319 spaced apart along the first direction X. The two support portions 319 are connected to the top wall 312, and the two ends of the intermediate shaft 82 along the first direction X are rotatably fitted into the two support portions 319 respectively.

[0089] Optionally, the gear shaft 712 and the transmission gear 81 are engaged by helical gear transmission.

[0090] Referring to Figure 14, when the extrusion mechanism 10 is working, the extrusion drive 71 simultaneously drives the driving member 72 to cooperate with the two driven members 73. Any driven member 73 of the nozzle assembly 34 that enters the printing position can engage with the driving member 72 to deliver consumables. However, the driven member 73 of the nozzle assembly 34 that enters the standby position cannot engage with the driving member 72 and cannot deliver consumables. For example, in Figure 14, the nozzle assembly 34 on the left is in the standby position, and the nozzle assembly 34 on the right is in the extrusion position.

[0091] Optionally, referring to Figure 14, the driving member 72 includes a driving gear 721 and a driving feed wheel 722, which are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected to the intermediate shaft 82. The driven member 73 includes a driven gear 731 and a driven feed wheel 732, which are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected to the intermediate shaft 82. When the driving member 72 and the driven member 73 are engaged, the driving gear 721 meshes with the driven gear 731, and the driving feed wheel 722 approaches the driven feed wheel 732, clamping the consumable material located between them. Thus, when the driving gear 721 drives the driven gear 731 to rotate, the driving feed wheel 722 and the driven feed wheel 732 rotate towards each other, causing the consumable material clamped between them to move towards the nozzle 346 mechanism, thereby conveying the consumable material to the nozzle assembly 34. When the driving component 72 and the driven component 73 are separated, the driving gear 721 no longer meshes with the driven gear 731, and the distance between the driving feed wheel 722 and the driven feed wheel 732 is also greater than the outer diameter of the consumable, thus making it impossible to convey the consumable.

[0092] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 8, 9, and 11, air supply holes 3131 are respectively formed on the two sidewalls 313. The printhead assembly 200 also includes two first fans 61 and two second fans 62. The two first fans 61 are disposed on both sides of the sidewall 313 along the first direction X, and the two sides of the first fans 61 along the second direction Y are respectively connected to the two sidewalls 313. The two second fans 62 are respectively disposed on the outer sides of the two sidewalls 313 and are arranged corresponding to the air supply holes 3131. In this way, the first fans 61 and the second fans 62 can realize the function of heat exchange between the air inside the nozzle mounting component 31 and the outside air, improve the cooling efficiency of the nozzle assembly 34, and ensure that the consumables do not melt or block the printing channel 22 in the nozzle holder 343.

[0093] Optionally, the first fan 61 is a centrifugal fan, with its air inlet side corresponding to the heat dissipation fins 347 of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 34, so that hot air in the nozzle mounting member 31 enters the centrifugal fan. The printhead device 200 also includes an air guide section 63, which is connected to the exhaust port of the first fan 61 for discharging airflow.

[0094] Optionally, the second fan 62 is an axial fan, wherein the second fan 62 on one side of the nozzle mounting member 31 delivers air from the outside to the inside of the nozzle mounting member 31, and the second fan 62 on the other side of the nozzle mounting member 31 outputs air from inside the nozzle mounting member 31, thereby achieving the heat dissipation function of the nozzle assembly 34 inside the nozzle mounting member 31.

[0095] In other embodiments, the number of first fans 61, the number of second fans 62, and their positional relationship with the nozzle mounting member 31 can be adjusted according to actual heat dissipation requirements. This embodiment does not impose specific limitations on these aspects.

[0096] A printhead apparatus 200 according to another embodiment of this application is described below with reference to Figures 16 to 28. The printhead apparatus 200 includes an extrusion mechanism 10, an extrusion switching mechanism 30, and the nozzle switching device 100 described above. The nozzle switching device 100 will not be described in detail here; the extrusion mechanism 10 and the extrusion switching mechanism 30 of this embodiment are described below.

[0097] Referring to Figures 16 to 18, the extrusion mechanism 10 includes an active drive 15, an extrusion drive wheel 12, and a plurality of driven components 14. The active drive 15 is connected to and drives the extrusion drive wheel 12 to rotate, and each driven component 14 includes an extrusion driven wheel 143. The extrusion switching mechanism 80 includes an extrusion switching element 81, which is configured to selectively arrange each driven component 14 in a first position or a second position; wherein, in the first position, the driven component 14 has its extrusion driven wheel 143 close to the extrusion drive wheel 12 to cooperate in extruding consumables; in the second position, the driven component 14 has its extrusion driven wheel 143 disposed away from the extrusion drive wheel 12. The nozzle mechanism 20 includes a nozzle switching element 23 and a plurality of printing channels 22 (printing channels 22 are visible in Figure 10), each printing channel 22 is respectively disposed with a corresponding driven component 14, and the nozzle switching element 23 is configured to put the printing channel 22 corresponding to the driven component 14 in the first position into a printing state.

[0098] When the printhead device 100 of this embodiment is working, various consumables are respectively installed between the extrusion drive wheel 12 and multiple driven components 14. According to the actual printing needs, the extrusion switching member 81 of the extrusion switching mechanism 80 pushes the selected driven component 14 corresponding to the selected consumable into the first position, so that the extrusion driven wheel 143 of the selected driven component 14 approaches the extrusion drive wheel 12 to extrude the selected consumable and deliver the selected consumable to the nozzle mechanism 20. At the same time, the nozzle switching member 23 switches the printing channel 22 corresponding to the driven component 14 in the first position to enter the printing state, so that the consumable delivered by the selected driven component 14 can smoothly enter the corresponding printing channel 22, so that the consumable can be output through the printing channel 22 to realize the printing of the selected consumable. Therefore, the printhead device 100 of this embodiment can switch different driven components 14 to enter the first position and different printing channels 22 to enter the printing state according to the actual printing needs, thereby completing the extrusion printing of different consumables, which is suitable for multi-consumable 3D printing needs. Furthermore, by switching the filament delivery via the extrusion mechanism 10 and switching different printing channels 22 via the nozzle mechanism 20, the printing switching flexibility of filaments can be greatly improved.

[0099] Referring to Figure 16, in this embodiment, the extrusion mounting component 11 is directly connected to the nozzle mounting component 21 and is movably mounted on the frame 201. This allows the consumables extruded by the extrusion mechanism 10 to be directly conveyed into the nozzle mechanism 20, thereby reducing consumable consumption. In other embodiments, to reduce the weight of the printhead assembly 100 on the frame 201, the extrusion mechanism 10 can be fixedly connected to the frame 201 (see Figure 15), and the discharge port 1111 can be connected to the printing channel 22 via a Teflon tube. In this way, the feed channel 141 can also convey consumables into the printing channel 22. Since the moving weight of the printhead assembly 100 is reduced, the moving speed of the nozzle mechanism 20 on the frame 201 can be increased, thereby improving printing efficiency. Furthermore, the lower moving inertia of the nozzle mechanism 20 on the frame 201 can further improve printing accuracy.

[0100] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 17 and 18, the extrusion mounting component 11 includes a base plate 111 and a connecting portion 112. The base plate 111 is connected to the nozzle mounting component 21. The base plate 111 is provided with multiple discharge ports 1111. Multiple driven components 14 are respectively provided with feeding channels 141. The multiple discharge ports 1111 are respectively connected to the feeding channels 141 of the corresponding driven components 14. The multiple discharge ports 1111 are respectively provided with multiple printing channels 22. One end of the connecting portion 112 is connected to the base plate 111. The extrusion drive wheel 12 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 112. A driven component 14 is provided on each side of the extrusion drive wheel 12 along the first direction X. The driven component 14 is movably connected to the base plate 111.

[0101] In other embodiments, the number of discharge ports 1111 and the number of printing channels 22 may be different, and the correspondence between discharge ports 1111 and printing channels 22 can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0102] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 17 to 19, the extrusion mechanism 10 further includes a transmission assembly 16. The active drive member 15 is connected to the extrusion mounting member 11 and is connected to a plurality of active extrusion wheels 12 through the transmission assembly 16 to drive the plurality of active extrusion wheels 12 to rotate.

[0103] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 17, each extrusion drive wheel 12 has a driven component 14 on both sides along its radial direction (first direction X). In this way, the overall integration of the extrusion mechanism 10 can be improved, and the volume of the extrusion mechanism 10 can be reduced while ensuring the number of driven components 14.

[0104] In this embodiment, multiple extrusion drive wheels 12 can be provided, and the multiple extrusion drive wheels 12 can be arranged along a rectangular array. The following description uses two extrusion drive wheels 12 as an example, with the two extrusion drive wheels 12 spaced apart along the second direction Y. Obviously, in other embodiments, the arrangement and specific number of extrusion drive wheels 12 can be adjusted and changed according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not specifically limit them.

[0105] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 17 to 19, the transmission assembly 16 includes a first gear 161, two second gears 162, and two third gears 163. The first gear 161 is connected to the output end of the drive member 15. The two second gears 162 are spaced apart along the second direction Y on both sides of the extrusion mounting member 11. One second gear 162 meshes with the first gear 161, and the two second gears 162 are respectively connected to the two extrusion drive wheels 12. The two third gears 163 mesh with the two second gears 162 respectively and are disposed on one side of the extrusion mounting member 11 along the first direction X. The two third gears 163 are fixedly connected to each other. Thus, the first gear 161 transmits power to one of the second gears 162, which transmits power to the two third gears 163, and one of the third gears 163 then transmits power to the other second gear 162, thereby completing the rotation of the two extrusion drive wheels 12 under the drive of the drive member 15.

[0106] By engaging the two second gears 162 through the two third gears 163, the outer space of the extrusion mounting 11 can be utilized, thereby facilitating the placement of other components on the inner side of the extrusion mounting 11 and improving the integration of the extrusion mechanism 10.

[0107] Of course, in other embodiments, the two second gears 162 can also be directly fixedly connected by a shaft, or only one second gear 162 meshing with the first gear 161 can be provided. The specific structure and transmission form of the transmission assembly 16 can be adjusted according to the arrangement of the driven assembly 14, and this embodiment does not specifically limit it.

[0108] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 17 to 19, the extrusion mounting component 11 further includes two side portions 113. The two side portions 113 are respectively connected to both sides of the base plate 111 along the second direction Y. A second gear 162 and a third gear 163 are rotatably engaged with one side portion 113, and another second gear 162 and another third gear 163 are rotatably engaged with the other side portion 113.

[0109] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 17 and 18, the printhead assembly 100 further includes a drive motor 17. An extrusion switch 81 is connected to the drive motor 17 and is capable of rotating about a rotation axis parallel to the third direction Z under the drive of the drive motor 17. A plurality of driven components 14 are arranged around the extrusion switch 81. The outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switch 81 includes a first curved surface segment 82 and a plurality of second curved surface segments 83, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the extrusion switch 81. The first curved surface segment 82 is configured to selectively position the driven components 14 in a first position. The second curved surface segments 83 are configured to selectively position the driven components 14 in a second position.

[0110] By driving the extrusion switching component 81 to rotate around the rotation axis via the drive motor 17, the first curved surface segment 82 and multiple second curved surface segments 83 can be respectively moved into selected positions, thereby causing the driven component 14 at that position to enter the first position. After the drive motor 17 stops driving the extrusion switching component 81 to rotate, the selected driven component 14 can remain in the first position, completing the material feeding action at that position. The other driven components 14 remain in the second position and do not perform the material feeding action. By driving the extrusion switching component 81 to move via the drive motor 17, the selection and position switching of the driven components 14 can be made more accurate and reliable, reducing the possibility of misalignment, improving the material feeding accuracy, and thus improving printing accuracy.

[0111] For example, referring to Figure 20, the driven component 14 on the left is held in the second position, and the driven component 14 on the right is held in the first position.

[0112] Obviously, in other embodiments, the extrusion switching member 81 can also move relative to the extrusion mounting member 11 under other forces. For example, when the extrusion mechanism 10 is movably mounted on the frame 201, the extrusion mounting member 11 can move along the optical axis 203 on the frame 201 to cause relative movement between the extrusion switching member 81 and the column 2011, thereby generating relative movement between the extrusion switching member 81 and the extrusion mounting member 11, which in turn drives the selected driven component 14 to switch from the second position to the first position. As another example, the extrusion switching member 81 can also move under the drive of other power sources such as cylinders.

[0113] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 18 and 19, the extrusion mount 11 further includes a receiving portion 114. The receiving portion 114 is spaced apart from the base plate 111 along a third direction Z, and is connected to the connecting portion 112 and the two side portions 113. The receiving portion 114 has a receiving hole 1141. The extrusion switching component 81 is disposed in the receiving hole 1141, and the drive motor 17 can be fixedly mounted in the receiving portion 114. In this way, the drive motor 17 and the extrusion switching component 81 are installed in the extrusion mount 11. In other embodiments, the drive motor 17 can also be fixed to other structures and disposed separately from the extrusion mount 11.

[0114] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 20 and 21, the second curved surface segment 83 is the superior arc segment of the outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switching member 81. The first curved surface segment 82 connects the two ends of the second curved surface segment 83. The first curved surface segment 82 is concave inward along the radial direction of the extrusion switching member 81, so that the extrusion driven wheel 143 of the driven component 14 abutting against the first curved surface segment 82 is close to the extrusion driving wheel 12, so as to cooperate in realizing the extrusion of consumables, and so that the extrusion driven wheel 143 of the driven component 14 located in the second position is moved away from the extrusion driving wheel 12. Specifically, the concave first curved surface segment 82 is formed as a first clearance groove 84.

[0115] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the extrusion switching member 81 can be formed as a circular plate. The arc-shaped outer peripheral surface of the circular plate can reduce the damage to the driven component 14 during the switching process between different positions driven by the second curved section 83, thereby improving the service life of the extrusion mechanism 10. In other embodiments, the first curved section 82 and the second curved section 83 can also be additionally provided with smooth protruding structures or roller structures to further reduce the friction force experienced by the driven component 14 during position switching.

[0116] In some embodiments, multiple extrusion switching elements 81 may be provided, and the multiple extrusion switching elements 81 may be distributed along the third direction Z, or distributed along the first direction X, or distributed in an array in the first direction X and the third direction Z.

[0117] In this embodiment, referring to FIG20, the driven assembly 14 includes a driven bracket 142 and an extrusion driven roller 143. One end of the driven bracket 142 is rotatably connected to the extrusion mounting member 11, and the extrusion driven roller 143 is rotatably connected to the middle of the driven bracket 142. The extrusion mechanism 10 also includes a plurality of first elastic members 18, which are elastically supported between the extrusion mounting member 11 and the plurality of driven brackets 142, and elastically press the driven bracket 142 against the outer periphery of the extrusion switching member 81; the extrusion switching member 81 is used to push the driven bracket 142 to rotate relative to the extrusion mounting member 11, thereby causing the driven assembly 14 to enter a first position where the extrusion driven roller 143 engages with the extrusion driving roller 12, or a second position where the extrusion driven roller 143 is separated from the extrusion driving roller 12.

[0118] By rotating the extrusion switching component 81, multiple driven supports 142 can rotate relative to the extrusion mounting component 11, allowing the extrusion switching component 81 to simultaneously switch the positions of multiple driven supports 142 within a small space, thereby improving the integration of the extrusion mechanism 10.

[0119] Furthermore, the first elastic member 18 keeps the driven bracket 142 elastically abutting between the extrusion mounting member 11 and the extrusion switching member 81, so that the driven bracket 142 can be fixed in both the first and second positions. Even if the extrusion mounting member 11 moves along the optical axis 203 and causes the driven bracket 142 to shake, the driven bracket 142 can be quickly kept in a fixed position, thereby ensuring the reliability of the extrusion mechanism 10 in conveying consumables.

[0120] Optionally, in this embodiment, referring to Figures 18, 23, and 24, the extrusion mounting component 11 further includes two mounting portions 115. The two mounting portions 115 are located on both sides of the base plate 111 along the first direction X, and both mounting portions 115 are situated between the two side portions 113 in the second direction Y. The driven assembly 14 further includes a first rotating shaft 144, which is rotatably fitted into the two side portions 113. One end of the driven bracket 142 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 144. Furthermore, two driven brackets 142 are respectively provided between one mounting portion 115 and the two side portions 113, and another two driven brackets 142 are respectively provided between the other mounting portion 115 and the other two side portions 113. Thus, the driven bracket 142 can be limited along the second direction Y by the mounting portions 115 and the side portions 113, improving the installation reliability of the driven bracket 142.

[0121] Optionally, referring to Figure 18, the first elastic element 18 can be a compression spring, with its two ends abutting between the driven bracket 142 and the mounting portion 115, respectively. Thus, two compression springs can be mounted simultaneously through one mounting portion 115. In other embodiments, the first elastic element 18 can also be a torsion spring, sleeved on the first rotating shaft 144 and connected between the driven bracket 142 and the extrusion mounting member 11. Therefore, the specific structure and mounting position of the first elastic element 18 can be adjusted according to actual needs, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0122] In other embodiments, the driven bracket 142 is inclined, the lower end of the driven bracket 142 is rotatably connected to the extrusion mounting member 11, and the upper end of the driven bracket 142 is attached to the extrusion switching member 81. In this way, the driven bracket 142 remains against the outer periphery of the extrusion switching member 81 under its own gravity, so there is no need to provide an additional first elastic member 18.

[0123] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 18, the extrusion drive wheel 12 includes an extrusion drive gear 121 and an extrusion drive feed wheel 122. The extrusion drive gear 121 and the extrusion drive feed wheel 122 are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected. The extrusion driven wheel 143 includes an extrusion driven gear 1431 and an extrusion driven feed wheel 1432, which are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected. When the extrusion drive wheel 12 and the extrusion driven wheel 143 are engaged, the extrusion drive gear 121 meshes with the extrusion driven gear 1431, and the extrusion drive feed wheel 122 approaches the extrusion driven feed wheel 1432, clamping the consumable material located between them. Thus, when the extrusion drive gear 121 drives the extrusion driven gear 1431 to rotate, the extrusion drive feed wheel 122 and the extrusion driven feed wheel 1432 rotate towards each other, causing the consumable material clamped between them to move towards the nozzle mechanism 20, thereby conveying the consumable material to the nozzle mechanism 20. When the extrusion drive wheel 12 separates from the extrusion driven wheel 143, the extrusion drive gear 121 no longer meshes with the extrusion driven gear 1431, and the distance between the extrusion drive feed wheel 122 and the extrusion driven feed wheel 1432 is also greater than the outer diameter of the consumable, thus making it impossible to convey the consumable.

[0124] In this embodiment, referring to FIG22, the driven bracket 142 includes a bracket body 1421. The bracket body 1421 is provided with a through hole 1422 along the second direction Y. The through hole 1422 is provided with two opposite holes along the third direction Z, respectively with a feeding protrusion 1423 and a discharging protrusion 1424. The feeding protrusion 1423 is used to feed in consumables, and the discharging protrusion 1424 is used to discharge consumables. The two together define the feeding channel 141. The feed protrusion 1423 and the discharge protrusion 1424 are spaced apart along a third direction Z. The width of the feed protrusion 1423 gradually decreases at the end near the discharge protrusion 1424, and the width of the discharge protrusion 1424 gradually decreases at the end near the feed protrusion 1423. The extrusion drive feed wheel 122 is located on one side of the feed protrusion 1423 and the discharge protrusion 1424. The extrusion driven wheel 143 is rotatably connected to the support body 1421 via the second rotating shaft 145 and is located in the through hole 1422. The extrusion driven feed wheel 1432 is located on the other side of the feed protrusion 1423 and the discharge protrusion 1424. One side of the extrusion drive gear 121 extends into the through hole 1422, and the extrusion driven gear 1431 is located in the through hole 1422 and is rotatably connected to the support body 1421. This facilitates the mutual cooperation between the extrusion drive wheel 12 and the extrusion driven wheel 143.

[0125] Optionally, multiple discharge protrusions 1424 are configured to correspond one-to-one with multiple discharge ports 1111 on the base plate 111.

[0126] Optionally, referring to Figure 21, the driven support 142 further includes a mating portion 1425, which protrudes from the upper end of the support body 1421 and is used to mate with the extrusion switching component 81. The mating portion 1425 may specifically be a cylinder to reduce the friction between the driven support 142 and the extrusion switching component 81.

[0127] Figures 25 to 28 illustrate a printhead apparatus 200 according to another embodiment of this application. The printhead apparatus 200 further includes a nozzle mechanism 20. The nozzle mechanism 20 includes a nozzle switching element 23 and a plurality of printing channels 22 (the printing channels 22 are visible in Figure 10), each printing channel 22 being respectively disposed with a corresponding driven component 14. The nozzle switching element 23 is configured to put the printing channel 22 corresponding to the driven component 14 located in a first position into a printing state. Figure 28 shows a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the nozzle mechanism 20 of this embodiment and the extrusion mechanism 10 of the previous embodiment.

[0128] Furthermore, referring to Figure 26, the nozzle mechanism 20 also includes a nozzle mounting member 21. Multiple printing channels 22 are arrayed on the nozzle mounting member 21, and the multiple printing channels 22 penetrate the nozzle mounting member 21 along the third direction Z. One end of the multiple printing channels 22 is respectively connected to multiple feeding channels 141, and the other end of the multiple printing channels 22 is used for feeding materials.

[0129] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 26 and 27, the nozzle mounting component 21 includes a first heating block 211 and a first heat insulation cover 212. Multiple printing channels 22 are disposed on the first heating block 211, and the first heat insulation cover 212 covers the outer surface of the first heating block 211. Thus, the first heating block 211 can heat the consumable material entering the printing channels 22, melting it and then discharging it to achieve printing. The first heating block 211 can be heated by heating structures such as heating tubes embedded therein. The first heat insulation cover 212 can insulate the first heating block 211, thereby ensuring the reliability of consumable material melting and guaranteeing printing quality.

[0130] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 26, multiple feeding channels 141 can be disposed within the same first heating block 211, so that the heating temperature of each feeding channel 141 is the same, which can be applied to materials with the same melting point but different colors and other properties. In other embodiments, multiple first heating blocks 211 can be disposed, and multiple feeding channels 141 are disposed within different first heating blocks 211, so that consumables with different melting points can be introduced into different feeding channels 141 to meet the heating and melting requirements of different consumables.

[0131] In this embodiment, referring to FIG27, the nozzle mechanism 20 further includes a first heat sink 24. The first heat sink 24 is connected to the side of the nozzle mounting member 21 opposite to the outlet of the printing channel 22. The first heat sink 24 is provided with a plurality of intermediate channels 241, which are respectively connected between the plurality of printing channels 22 and the plurality of feeding channels 141, so that the consumables enter the feeding channel 141 through the intermediate channels 241. Optionally, the first heat sink 24 includes a heat sink block with heat dissipation fins.

[0132] Optionally, referring to Figure 27, the nozzle mechanism 20 also includes a plurality of first throats 25. One end of the plurality of first throats 25 is connected to the intermediate channel 241, and the other end is connected to the plurality of printing channels 22. The consumable can pass through the first throats 25 to reach the feed channel 141. The first throats 25 can provide heat insulation to ensure that the consumable in the intermediate channel 241 does not melt and block the intermediate channel 241, thus ensuring the smooth progress of the printing process.

[0133] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 26 and 27, the nozzle switching component 23 includes a rotating part 231 and a nozzle 232. The nozzle 232 is disposed on the rotating part 231, which is rotatably fitted to the nozzle mounting part 21. The rotating part 231 can rotate relative to the nozzle mounting part 21 until the nozzle 232 communicates with one of the printing channels 22, so that the printing channel 22 enters the printing state, and closes the other printing channels 22, so that the other printing channels 22 enter the standby state.

[0134] Optionally, referring to FIG25, the rotating part 231 includes a rotating rod 2311 and a rotating disk 2312. The rotating rod 2311 passes through the first heat sink 24 and the first heating block 211 in a third direction Z, and extends out from the side of the first heating block 211 away from the first heat sink 24, and is connected to the rotating disk 2312. The nozzle 232 is provided on the side of the rotating disk 2312 away from the first heating block 211.

[0135] Optionally, referring to Figure 27, the bottom surface of the first heating block 211 is provided with an annular groove 2111, and the openings of multiple printing channels 22 are located on the bottom surface of the annular groove 2111. The top surface of the rotating disk 2312 is provided with an annular protrusion 2313, which fits into the annular groove 2111. The rotating disk 2312 has a conveying hole 2314 located within the annular protrusion 2313 and extends to the nozzle 232, so that the printing channel 22 conveys the molten consumable to the nozzle 232 through the conveying hole 2314. The cooperation between the annular protrusion 2313 and the annular groove 2111 can limit the relative rotation between the rotating disk 2312 and the first heating block 211, ensure reliable communication between the selected printing channel 22 and the nozzle 232, and reduce the possibility of consumable overflowing from the gap between the rotating disk 2312 and the first heating block 211.

[0136] Referring to Figure 2, this application also provides a 3D printer 300, including a frame 301, a printhead assembly 200, an optical axis 303, and a printing substrate 302. The printhead assembly 200 is the printhead assembly 200 of the aforementioned embodiment. The frame 301 includes two columns 2011 spaced apart along a first direction X. The optical axis 303 is connected between the two columns 3011, and the printhead assembly 200 is slidably disposed on the optical axis 303.

[0137] The 3D printer 300 includes the print head device 200 of any of the above embodiments, and therefore has the beneficial effects of the print head device 200 of the above embodiments, which will not be described again here.

[0138] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the above preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions to the technical solutions of this application should not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A printhead device, characterized in that, include: A printhead switching device includes a nozzle mounting component, a plurality of nozzle assemblies, and a nozzle switching component. The plurality of nozzle assemblies are spaced apart from each other on the nozzle mounting component, and each nozzle assembly is configured to move relative to the nozzle mounting component between a standby position and a printing position. The nozzle switching component is movably disposed on the nozzle mounting component along a first direction and is configured to abut against each nozzle assembly. The nozzle switching component includes a plurality of pushing parts, and each pushing part is individually disposed corresponding to one nozzle assembly. When the nozzle switching device moves to the first position, the nozzle switching component is triggered; When the printhead switching device moves from the first position to the second position, the nozzle switching member moves relative to the nozzle mounting member, so that at least one of the pushing parts pushes the corresponding nozzle assembly to the printing position; An extrusion mechanism includes an active member and a plurality of driven members. The active member is rotatably connected to the nozzle mounting of the printhead switching device. The plurality of driven members are rotatably connected to a plurality of nozzle assemblies of the printhead switching device. The driven members on the nozzle assemblies located at the printing position cooperate with the active member to deliver consumables to the nozzle assembly.

2. The printhead device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The printhead assembly further includes an extrusion drive and a transmission assembly. The extrusion drive is disposed on the nozzle mount, and the transmission assembly is connected to the extrusion drive. The transmission assembly is disposed within the nozzle mount and drives the drive member. The extrusion drive is configured to drive the drive member to rotate via the transmission assembly.

3. The printhead device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of nozzle assemblies are divided into multiple rows of nozzle units, the multiple rows of nozzle units are spaced apart along a second direction, and each row of nozzle units includes a plurality of nozzle assemblies distributed along a first direction; The nozzle switching component further includes a plurality of push bars, which are spaced apart along a second direction. Each push bar corresponds to a column of nozzle units, and each push bar is provided with a push portion. In the second direction, the push portions of the plurality of push bars are staggered along a first direction, so that when the nozzle switching component moves relative to the nozzle mounting component, only at least one of the nozzle assemblies can enter the printing position.

4. The printhead device according to claim 3, characterized in that: There are two push bars, including a first push bar and a second push bar. The first push bar and the second push bar are spaced apart along a second direction. The first push bar has a first push part and a second push part at its two ends along a first direction. The second push bar has a third push part and a fourth push part at its two ends along the first direction. The third push part and the fourth push part are located between the first push part and the second push part along the first direction.

5. The printhead device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The push bar includes a mounting plane, and the push part includes a resisting plane and a transition arc surface, wherein the resisting plane is connected to the mounting plane through the transition arc surface; The nozzle assembly includes a nozzle bracket and a roller. The roller is rotatably connected to the nozzle bracket and abuts against the nozzle mounting member. When the roller moves from abutting against the mounting plane through the transition arc surface to abutting against the mounting plane, the nozzle assembly switches from the standby position to the printing position.

6. The printhead device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle mounting component further includes a first guide portion, which has a guide groove on one side facing the nozzle assembly; The nozzle assembly includes a second guide portion that is movably fitted within the guide groove in a third direction. The guide groove is configured to guide the second guide portion to move in the third direction and to limit the second guide portion in a first direction and a second direction.

7. The printhead device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle mounting component also includes multiple guides, each of which has a guide hole. The guide hole is arranged through the nozzle in a third direction, and each nozzle assembly is movably fitted into one of the guide holes in a third direction.

8. The printhead device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle switching device further includes a guiding mechanism, which is disposed on the nozzle mounting component. The guiding mechanism has multiple guiding holes, each of which corresponds to one of the nozzle assemblies, and each guiding hole is configured to guide the nozzle corresponding to one of the nozzle assemblies.

9. A printhead device, characterized in that, include: An extrusion mechanism, comprising an active drive member, an extrusion drive wheel, and multiple driven components, wherein the active drive member is connected to and drives the extrusion drive wheel to rotate, and each driven component includes an extrusion driven wheel; An extrusion switching mechanism includes an extrusion switching element configured to selectively arrange each of the driven components in an extrusion position or a separation position; wherein, in the extrusion position, the driven component has its extrusion driven wheel close to the extrusion driving wheel to cooperate in extruding consumables; and in the separation position, the driven component has its extrusion driven wheel disposed away from the extrusion driving wheel. A printhead switching device includes a nozzle mounting component, a plurality of nozzle assemblies, and a nozzle switching component. The plurality of nozzle assemblies are spaced apart from each other on the nozzle mounting component, and each nozzle assembly is configured to move relative to the nozzle mounting component between a standby position and a printing position. The nozzle switching component is movably disposed on the nozzle mounting component along a first direction and is configured to abut against each nozzle assembly. The nozzle switching component includes a plurality of pushing parts, and each pushing part is individually disposed corresponding to one nozzle assembly. When the printhead switching device moves to the first position, the nozzle switching component is triggered; when the printhead switching device moves from the first position to the second position, the nozzle switching component moves relative to the nozzle mounting component, so that at least one of the pushing parts pushes the corresponding nozzle assembly to the printing position.

10. The printhead device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The extrusion switching mechanism also includes a drive motor; The extrusion switching component is connected to the drive motor and can rotate around the rotation axis under the drive of the drive motor. A plurality of driven components are arranged around the extrusion switching component. The outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switching component includes a first curved surface segment and a second curved surface segment. The first curved surface segment is connected to the second curved surface segment. The first curved surface segment is configured to selectively arrange the driven components at the first position, and the second curved surface segment is configured to selectively arrange the driven components at the second position.

11. The printhead device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second curved segment is the superior arc segment of the outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switching component. The first curved segment is connected between the two ends of the second curved segment. The first curved segment is concave inward along the radial direction of the extrusion switching component so that the extrusion driven wheel of the driven component abutting against the first curved segment is close to the extrusion driving wheel to cooperate in realizing the extrusion of consumables, and so that the extrusion driven wheel of the driven component located in the second position is away from the extrusion driving wheel.

12. The printhead device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The extrusion mechanism further includes an extrusion mounting component, and the extrusion switching component is disposed on the extrusion mounting component; The driven assembly further includes a driven bracket, one end of which is rotatably connected to the extrusion mounting component, and the other end of which abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switching component. The extrusion driven wheel is rotatably connected to the driven bracket.

13. The printhead device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The extrusion mechanism further includes a plurality of first elastic elements, which are elastically supported between the extrusion mounting member and the plurality of driven supports, and elastically press the plurality of driven supports against the outer peripheral surface of the extrusion switching member; The extrusion switching component is configured to push the driven bracket to rotate relative to the extrusion mounting component, thereby arranging the driven assembly in the first position, and the extrusion driven wheel of the driven assembly in the first position is engaged with the extrusion driving wheel, or arranging the driven assembly in the second position, and the extrusion driven wheel of the driven assembly in the second position is disengaged from the extrusion driving wheel.

14. The printhead device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The extrusion mounting component includes a base plate and a connecting part. The base plate has multiple discharge ports, and each of the multiple driven components has a feeding channel. Each discharge port is connected to a feeding channel, and each discharge port is connected to a printing channel. The connecting part is connected to the base plate, and the extrusion drive wheel is rotatably connected to the connecting part. Each of the two sides of the extrusion drive wheel along a first direction has a driven component, and the multiple driven brackets are movably connected to the base plate.

15. The printhead device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The printhead device further includes a nozzle mechanism, which includes a nozzle switching element and a plurality of print channels. Each print channel is respectively disposed with a corresponding slave component. The nozzle switching element is configured to put the print channel corresponding to the slave component located at the first position into a printing state. The nozzle mechanism further includes a nozzle mounting element, and the print channel is disposed on the nozzle mounting element. The nozzle switching component includes a rotating part and a nozzle, the nozzle being disposed on the rotating part, the rotating part being rotatably coupled to the nozzle mounting component, the rotating part being configured to rotate relative to the nozzle mounting component to switch the nozzle to the print channel opposite to the driven component located in the first position, and to put the print channel into a printing state.

16. The printhead device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The plurality of nozzle assemblies are divided into multiple rows of nozzle units, the multiple rows of nozzle units are spaced apart along a second direction, and each row of nozzle units includes a plurality of nozzle assemblies distributed along a first direction; The nozzle switching component further includes a plurality of push bars, which are spaced apart along a second direction. Each push bar corresponds to a column of nozzle units, and each push bar is provided with a push portion. In the second direction, the push portions of the plurality of push bars are staggered along a first direction, so that when the nozzle switching component moves relative to the nozzle mounting component, only at least one of the nozzle assemblies can enter the printing position.

17. The printhead apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that: There are two push bars, including a first push bar and a second push bar. The first push bar and the second push bar are spaced apart along a second direction. The first push bar has a first push part and a second push part at its two ends along a first direction. The second push bar has a third push part and a fourth push part at its two ends along the first direction. The third push part and the fourth push part are located between the first push part and the second push part along the first direction.

18. The printhead apparatus according to claim 17, characterized in that: The push bar includes a mounting plane, and the push part includes a resisting plane and a transition arc surface, wherein the resisting plane is connected to the mounting plane through the transition arc surface; The nozzle assembly includes a nozzle bracket and a roller. The roller is rotatably connected to the nozzle bracket and abuts against the nozzle mounting member. When the roller moves from abutting against the mounting plane through the transition arc surface to abutting against the mounting plane, the nozzle assembly switches from the standby position to the printing position.

19. The printhead device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The nozzle mounting component also includes multiple guides, each of which has a guide hole. The guide hole is arranged through the nozzle in a third direction, and each nozzle assembly is movably fitted into one of the guide holes in a third direction.

20. A 3D printer, characterized in that, Includes the printhead device as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

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