Transmission switching apparatus, feeding device, discharging device and 3D printer

Abstract

The present application provides a transmission switching apparatus, a feeding device, a discharging device and a 3D printer. The transmission switching apparatus comprises: a switching assembly, comprising a switching member, and a switching gear disposed on the switching member; and a driving assembly, comprising a driving member, and an output shaft disposed on the driving member, the output shaft having a transmission connection with the switching member, and the driving assembly being configured to selectively deploy the switching gear at a first position or a second position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member to a device directly or indirectly meshed with the switching gear. The apparatus further comprises a first gear assembly, the first gear assembly comprising at least one first gear, the first gear being meshed with the switching gear deployed at the first position or the second position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member to a device meshed with the first gear. The present application switches the switching gear between the first position and the second position, meeting the feeding and discharging requirements of consumables, and ensuring the reliability of consumable feeding and discharging.

Description

Transmission switching device, feeding device, material returning device and 3D printer

[0001] The present application claims priority to the Chinese patent application No. 202421818195.6, filed on July 29, 2024, and entitled "Transmission switching device, feeding device, material returning device and 3D printer", the whole content of which is incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application belongs to the technical field of 3D printing, and particularly relates to a transmission switching device, a feeding device, a material returning device and a 3D printer. BACKGROUND

[0003] FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is currently the most widely used 3D printing technology. A 3D printer using FDM technology uses linear consumables, which are melted and deposited on a work platform. This kind of 3D printer has a relatively simple structure, low manufacturing and maintenance costs, and low material costs. Therefore, this kind of 3D printer has the widest application field and the fastest promotion.

[0004] The existing 3D printing device uses consumables wound on a roller-shaped feeding disc. A certain tension is applied to the consumables by an extrusion mechanism, so that the feeding disc rotates under the action of the tension and then delivers the consumables to the extrusion mechanism for extrusion application. Or through the material returning mechanism, the feeding disc rotates in the opposite direction to re-wind the excess consumables on the feeding disc to realize the material returning of the consumables. However, the extrusion mechanism and the material returning mechanism both need to be controlled by a separate drive motor, and cannot be switched between the extrusion mechanism and the material returning mechanism by the same drive mechanism, which is not ideal in use. Therefore, how to switch the feeding state and the material returning state of the consumables to improve the feeding and material returning reliability of the consumables is a problem to be solved. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a transmission switching device, a feeding device, a material returning device and a 3D printer to meet the demand for switching the feeding state and the material returning state of the consumables and improve the feeding and material returning reliability of the consumables.

[0006] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present application provides a transmission switching device for feeding and material returning of consumables on a feeding disc, which comprises:

[0007] A switching assembly comprising a switching piece and a switching gear provided on the switching piece;

[0008] A driving assembly comprising a driving piece and an output shaft provided on the driving piece, the output shaft being in transmission connection with the switching piece.

[0009] The driving assembly is configured to selectively arrange the switching gear in the first position or the second position to transmit the driving force of the driving member to the device directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear.

[0010] As a further improvement of the present application, the transmission switching device further comprises a first gear assembly comprising at least one first gear engaged with the switching gear arranged in the first position or the second position to transmit the driving force of the driving member to the device engaged with the first gear.

[0011] As a further improvement of the present application, when the number of the first gears is 2n-1, the switching gear rotates in the opposite direction of the turntable; when the number of the first gears is 2n, the switching gear rotates in the same direction of the turntable.

[0012] As a further improvement of the present application, the driving assembly further comprises a driving worm arranged on the output shaft and a driving worm gear in transmission connection with the switching member, the driving worm being engaged with the driving worm gear.

[0013] The driving worm is provided with a threaded groove at one end close to the driving worm gear, the threaded groove being engaged with the outer tooth profile of the driving worm gear.

[0014] As a further improvement of the present application, the driving assembly further comprises an output gear arranged on the output shaft and a transmission gear in transmission connection with the switching member, the output gear and the transmission gear being in transmission connection through a synchronous belt.

[0015] As a further improvement of the present application, the driving assembly further comprises a speed reduction mechanism arranged on the output shaft, the speed reduction mechanism being in transmission connection with the switching member.

[0016] As a further improvement of the present application, the switching member is further provided with a driving gear engaged with the switching gear, the driving gear being in transmission connection with the output shaft of the driving assembly.

[0017] The driving assembly is configured to drive the switching member to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to selectively arrange the switching gear in the first position or the second position.

[0018] As a further improvement of the present application, the driving gear and the driving assembly are in transmission connection through a first transmission rod to drive the driving gear and the switching member to rotate when the driving member rotates.

[0019] As a further improvement of the present application, knurls are arranged at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly.

[0020] As a further improvement of the present application, limit surfaces are arranged at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly, and abutting surfaces corresponding to the limit surfaces are arranged at the positions of the shaft holes of the driving gear and the driving assembly.

[0021] As a further improvement of the present application, protrusions are arranged at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly, and groove portions corresponding to the protrusions are arranged at the positions of the shaft holes of the driving gear and the driving assembly.

[0022] As a further improvement of the present application, the switching member comprises two oppositely arranged limit walls, and through holes for the first transmission rod to pass through are arranged on the two limit walls.

[0023] The driving gear and the switching gear are arranged between the two limit walls.

[0024] As a further improvement of the present application, one end of the two limit walls is connected through a clamping member, and the two ends of the clamping member are respectively connected with the corresponding limit walls to clamp the driving gear and the switching gear between the two limit walls.

[0025] As a further improvement of the present application, the first transmission rod is in a prismatic shape, and the gear shaft holes of the driving gear and the driving worm gear are adapted to the first transmission rod.

[0026] As a further improvement of the present application, an oscillating gear meshingly connected with the driving gear is further arranged on the switching member, and the oscillating gear and the switching gear are oppositely arranged at the two ends of the switching member.

[0027] The switching member is provided with a switching rotation shaft for the switching gear to rotate at the position corresponding to the switching gear, and is provided with an oscillating rotation shaft for the oscillating gear to rotate at the position corresponding to the oscillating gear.

[0028] Based on the above-mentioned transmission switching device, the present application further provides a material returning equipment, which comprises the transmission switching device of any one of the above-mentioned transmission switching devices.

[0029] The material returning assembly comprises a material returning roller and a material returning gear connected with the material returning roller, the material returning gear is configured to directly or indirectly mesh with the switching gear, and the material returning gear is driven to rotate counterclockwise by the switching gear to drive the material tray on the material returning roller to rotate clockwise to realize material returning.

[0030] As a further improvement of the present application, when the switching gear is arranged in the first position, the first gear assembly is connected with the switching gear and the material returning gear respectively;

[0031] When the number of the first gears is odd, the switching gear rotates counterclockwise to drive the material returning gear to rotate counterclockwise; when the number of the first gears is even, the switching gear rotates clockwise to drive the material returning gear to rotate counterclockwise, and the material returning is achieved by driving the material disc to rotate clockwise through the material returning gear rotating counterclockwise.

[0032] Based on the above-mentioned transmission switching device, the present application further provides a feeding device, which comprises the transmission switching device according to any one of the above-mentioned transmission switching devices; and,

[0033] a feeding assembly, which comprises a feeding gear set and a feeding gear, the feeding gear is connected with the feeding gear set, and the feeding gear is configured to be directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear, and the feeding is achieved by driving the feeding gear to rotate clockwise through the switching gear to drive the feeding gear set to rotate clockwise to extrude the consumable.

[0034] As a further improvement of the present application, when the switching gear is arranged in the second position, the first gear assembly is connected with the switching gear and the feeding gear respectively;

[0035] When the number of the first gears is odd, the switching gear rotates clockwise to drive the feeding gear to rotate clockwise; when the number of the first gears is even, the switching gear rotates counterclockwise to drive the feeding gear to rotate clockwise, and the feeding is achieved by driving the material disc to rotate counterclockwise through the feeding gear rotating clockwise.

[0036] Based on the above-mentioned transmission switching device, feeding device and material returning device, the present application further provides a 3D printer, which comprises the transmission switching device according to any one of the above-mentioned transmission switching devices, or comprises the feeding device according to any one of the above-mentioned feeding devices, or comprises the material returning device according to any one of the above-mentioned material returning devices.

[0037] Compared with the prior art, the transmission switching device, the feeding device, the material returning device and the 3D printer provided by the embodiment of the application are applied to the feeding and returning of the material on the material disc, the switching gear is arranged at the first position or the second position by the driving assembly, the driving force of the driving part is transmitted to the device directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear to realize the returning or feeding of the material, the output shaft and the switching part in transmission connection with the output shaft are controlled to rotate by the driving part, the switching gear arranged on the switching part is directly or indirectly engaged with the corresponding feeding device or returning device, and then the driving force of the driving part is transmitted to the device directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear, the switching gear is switched between the first position and the second position, the requirement of switching between the feeding state and the returning state of the material is met, the feeding and returning reliability of the material is improved, and the 3D printing efficiency and the printing quality are ensured; the first gear in engagement connection with the feeding device or the returning device is arranged at the first position and / or the second position, the number of the first gear and the rotating direction of the switching gear are adjusted to meet the requirement of the clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the material disc, higher torque is realized, and the driving part does not need to be separately arranged on the feeding device or the returning device, the occupied space is reduced, and the production manufacturing cost is effectively reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the application or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed to be used in the embodiments or the prior art description. Obviously, the drawings in the following description only show some embodiments of the application, and for those skilled in the art, other drawings can also be obtained from these drawings without any creative effort.

[0039] Fig. 1 is a structural schematic view of the transmission switching device provided by the embodiment of the application.

[0040] Fig. 2 is a structural schematic view of the driving gear in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0041] Fig. 3 is a structural schematic view of the switching gear in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0042] Fig. 4 is a structural schematic view of the knurling in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0043] Fig. 5 is a structural schematic view of the limiting surface in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0044] Fig. 6 is an assembly view of the switching part in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0045] Fig. 7 is a structural schematic view of the first gear in the transmission switching device shown in Fig. 1.

[0046] Fig. 8 is a structural schematic view of the 3D printer provided by the embodiment of the application.

[0047] Fig. 9 is a schematic view of the structure of the frame in the 3D printer shown in Fig. 8.

[0048] Fig. 10 is a schematic view of the structure of the discharge port in the 3D printer shown in Fig. 8.

[0049] Fig. 11 is a schematic view of the structure of the housing in the 3D printer shown in Fig. 8.

[0050] Reference signs: 10-driving assembly; 11-driving piece; 12-driving worm gear; 13-driving worm; 20-switching assembly; 21-switching piece; 211-limiting wall; 212-clamping piece; 213-switching rotation shaft; 214-oscillating rotation shaft; 215-buckling structure; 216-first limiting groove; 22-switching gear; 23-driving gear; 24-first transmission rod; 241-knurl; 242-limiting surface; 243-abutting surface; 25-oscillating gear; 30-material returning assembly; 31-material returning gear; 32-material returning roller; 321-silicone sleeve; 33-first transmission gear; 40-material feeding assembly; 41-material feeding gear; 42-material feeding gear set; 50-frame; 51-housing; 52-discharge port; 53-sealing port; 60-consumable. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] In order to make the purpose, technical scheme and advantages of the present application more clear, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application and are not used to limit the present application.

[0052] In the description of the present application, the meaning of "a plurality of" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly and specifically limited. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship, movement condition, etc. between the components in a certain posture (as shown in the drawings), and if the certain posture changes, the directional indications also change accordingly. In addition, the terms "include" and "have" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0053] In order to make the description of the present disclosure more detailed and complete, the following describes the embodiments of the present application and specific examples; but this is not the only form of implementation or use of the specific embodiments of the present application. The embodiments include the features of the specific embodiments and the method steps and their order used to construct and operate these specific embodiments. However, other specific embodiments can also be used to achieve the same or equivalent functions and step sequences.

[0054] Please refer to FIG. 1-FIG. 11, in order to meet the needs of switching the feeding state and the discharging state of the consumable, improve the feeding and discharging reliability of the consumable and the 3D printing efficiency, the application embodiment provides a transmission switching device, a feeding device, a discharging device and a 3D printer for feeding and discharging the consumable wound on the tray (not shown in the figure).

[0055] Please refer to FIG. 1, the structural schematic diagram of the transmission switching device provided by the application embodiment, the transmission switching device includes a driving assembly 10 and a switching assembly 20; wherein the driving assembly 10 includes a driving member 11 and an output shaft 111 arranged on the driving member 11, the switching assembly 20 includes a switching member 21 and a switching gear 22 arranged on the switching member 21, the application will drive the output shaft 111 on the driving member 11 and the driving member 11 transmission connection, through, through the driving member 11 drives the switching member 21 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, so as to arrange the switching gear 22 on the switching member 21 in the first position or the second position, the driving force of the driving member 11 is transmitted to the device directly or indirectly meshed with the switching gear 22.

[0056] Please refer to FIG. 2, the structural schematic diagram of the driving gear 23 in the transmission switching device shown in FIG. 1, it can be observed that the switching assembly 20 includes a switching member 21 and a switching gear 22 arranged on the switching member 21, since the switching gear 22 is arranged on the switching member 21, the switching gear 22 will be driven to rotate synchronously in the process of rotating the switching member 21.

[0057] In the application embodiment, the switching gear 22 arranged on the switching member 21 can be switched between the first position and the second position by the driving assembly 10, so as to make the switching gear 22 directly or indirectly meshed with the device arranged at the corresponding position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the device directly or indirectly meshed with the switching gear 22.

[0058] Please refer to FIG. 8, the structural schematic diagram of the 3D printer provided by the application embodiment, the above-mentioned device directly or indirectly meshed with the switching gear 22 can be a discharging device or a feeding device, when the switching gear 22 is directly or indirectly connected with the discharging device, the driving force of the driving member 11 can be transmitted to the discharging device, so as to realize the discharging of the printing consumable, when the switching gear 22 is directly or indirectly connected with the feeding device, the driving force of the driving member 11 can be transmitted to the feeding device, so as to realize the feeding of the printing consumable.

[0059] As an optional embodiment, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position or the second position, a first gear assembly can be further arranged between the switching gear 22 and the material returning gear 31, the first gear assembly comprising at least one first gear 33 connected with the switching gear 33 arranged in the first position or the second position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the device engaged with the first gear 33.

[0060] In an optional embodiment, the device engaged with the first gear 33 is a material returning device, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, the switching gear 22 is engaged with the first gear 33 in the corresponding position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the material returning device engaged with the first gear 33.

[0061] In an optional embodiment, the device engaged with the first gear 33 is a material feeding device, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the second position, the switching gear 22 is engaged with the first gear 33 in the corresponding position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the material feeding device engaged with the first gear 33.

[0062] In a first optional embodiment, the material returning device and the material feeding device are both engaged with the corresponding first gear 33, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, the switching gear 22 is engaged with the first gear 33 in the corresponding position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the material returning device engaged with the first gear 33, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the second position, the switching gear 22 is engaged with the first gear 33 in the corresponding position, so as to transmit the driving force of the driving member 11 to the material feeding device engaged with the first gear 33.

[0063] Of course, the above embodiments provide feasible arrangement modes, and the application does not make further limitation on the specific arrangement positions and the number of the first gears 33.

[0064] In the embodiments of the application, when the number of the first gears 33 is configured as 2n-1, the switching gear 22 rotates in the opposite direction of the tray, when the number of the first gears 33 is configured as 2n, the switching gear 22 rotates in the same direction of the tray, wherein n is a positive integer.

[0065] It can also be understood that, when the number of the first gears 33 is odd, the switching gear 22 rotates in the opposite direction of the tray, when the number of the first gears 33 is even, the switching gear 22 rotates in the same direction of the tray; wherein the rotating direction of the switching gear 22 and the tray includes clockwise rotation or counterclockwise rotation.

[0066] It needs to be explained that the above-mentioned switching gear 22 is opposite to the rotation direction of the tray can be understood as the tray rotates counterclockwise when the switching gear 22 rotates clockwise, and the tray rotates clockwise when the switching gear 22 rotates counterclockwise; the above-mentioned switching gear 22 is the same as the rotation direction of the tray can be understood as the tray rotates clockwise when the switching gear 22 rotates clockwise, and the tray rotates counterclockwise when the switching gear 22 rotates counterclockwise.

[0067] In the embodiment of the application, when it is necessary to return the material on the tray, the tray needs to rotate clockwise, at this time, when the number of the first gear 33 is odd, the switching gear 22 needs to be set to rotate counterclockwise to drive the tray to rotate clockwise, and when the number of the first gear 33 is even, the switching gear 22 needs to be set to rotate clockwise to drive the tray to rotate clockwise.

[0068] Similarly, when it is necessary to feed the material on the tray, the tray needs to rotate counterclockwise, at this time, when the number of the first gear 33 is odd, the switching gear 22 needs to be set to rotate clockwise to drive the tray to rotate counterclockwise, and when the number of the first gear 33 is even, the switching gear 22 needs to be set to rotate counterclockwise to drive the tray to rotate counterclockwise.

[0069] In principle, no matter whether the first gear 33 is set to be odd or even or not, the switching gear 22 needs to drive the tray to rotate counterclockwise to return the material or to rotate clockwise to feed the material when rotating, so the application does not make further limitation on the specific number of the above-mentioned first gear 33.

[0070] The application is provided with the first gear 33 engaged with the feeding device or the returning device at the first position and / or the second position, and the number of the first gear 33 and the rotation direction of the switching gear 22 are adjusted to meet the clockwise or counterclockwise rotation requirement of the tray, which can realize higher torque compared with the traditional direct drive motor.

[0071] As an optional embodiment, the above-mentioned driving assembly 10 can include a driving worm 13 arranged on the driving shaft, and a driving worm wheel 12 in transmission connection with the switching piece 21. It can be observed that the driving worm 13 is provided with a threaded groove close to one end of the driving worm wheel 12, and the threaded groove is in engagement with the outer tooth profile of the driving worm wheel 12, so as to realize the rotation of the driving shaft 111 and the driving worm 13 on the driving shaft 111 by the driving piece 11, and then the rotation of the driving worm wheel 12 by the driving worm 13. Since the switching piece 21 is in transmission connection with the driving worm wheel 12, the driving worm wheel 12 will drive the switching piece 21 to rotate at the same time, so as to arrange the switching gear 22 at the first position or the second position according to the requirement, thereby being engaged with the returning device or the feeding device arranged at the corresponding position, to realize the returning or feeding of the material.

[0072] The above-mentioned mode of driving the worm 13 and the worm gear 12 in cooperation can provide a very high reduction ratio, which is suitable for application scenarios requiring large torque, such as application scenarios of consumer-grade 3D printers, and the worm gear transmission structure is compact and occupies small space, so it is suitable for application scenarios such as the inside of the material box, and the worm gear transmission structure usually has self-locking characteristics, so it can be self-locked when there is no power driving, preventing the material 60 wound on the material tray from being squeezed out or pulled out.

[0073] Optionally, the above-mentioned driving assembly 10 can also include an output gear (not shown in the figure) arranged on the output shaft 111, and a reduction gear (not shown in the figure) in transmission connection with the switching piece 21, the number of the reduction gear is set to at least one, when there is only one reduction gear, the reduction gear is in transmission connection with the switching piece 21, and should be in meshing connection with the output gear, when the driving piece 11 drives the driving shaft 111 and the output gear arranged on the driving shaft 111 to rotate, it drives the reduction gear and the switching piece to rotate; when the number of the reduction gear is set to several, the output gear should be in meshing connection with the adjacent reduction gear, and the switching piece 21 should also be in meshing connection with the adjacent reduction gear, and the several reduction gears should be in meshing connection, so that when the driving piece 11 drives the driving shaft 111 and the output gear arranged on the driving shaft 111 to rotate, it drives the several reduction gears to rotate, so that the switching gear 22 on the switching piece 21 is arranged at the first position or the second position according to the requirement.

[0074] It can be understood that the above-mentioned mode of cooperation of the output gear and the reduction gear can reduce the rotation speed of the driving piece 11 and increase the output torque, which can achieve higher torque compared with the traditional direct drive motor, so the present application does not further limit the specific number of the above-mentioned reduction gear.

[0075] As an optional embodiment, the above-mentioned driving assembly 10 can also include an output gear arranged on the output shaft 111, and a transmission gear (not shown in the figure) in transmission connection with the switching piece 21, the output gear and the transmission gear can be connected by a belt or a synchronous belt, so that when the driving piece 11 drives the driving shaft 111 and the output gear arranged on the driving shaft 111 to rotate, the transmission gear and the switching piece 21 are driven to rotate synchronously through the belt or the synchronous belt, so that the switching gear 22 on the switching piece 21 is arranged at the first position or the second position according to the requirement, effectively reducing the cost.

[0076] Alternatively, the aforementioned drive assembly 10 may also include a reduction mechanism disposed on the output shaft 111. This reduction mechanism may be in the form of a gear reducer, worm gear reducer, or planetary gear reducer, and may be connected to the switching component for transmission. Alternatively, when the drive assembly 11 drives the drive shaft 111 and the reduction mechanism to rotate, it may also drive the switching component 21 to rotate, thereby arranging the switching gear 22 on the switching component 21 at a first position or a second position as required. The reduction mechanism and the drive assembly 11 can provide high-precision position control, which is suitable for application scenarios that require high dynamic response and precise control, such as in industrial 3D printer applications.

[0077] It should be noted that the above-mentioned drive worm gear 12 and drive worm 13, output gear and reduction gear, output gear and transmission gear can be connected by belt or synchronous belt, or by reduction mechanism. The specific configuration of the drive component 10 can be selected according to the actual application scenario. As long as it can be connected to the output shaft 111, it is feasible to arrange the switching gear 22 in the first or second position as required. This application does not impose any further restrictions on the specific configuration of the drive component 10.

[0078] Please refer to Figure 3, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of the switching gear 22 in the transmission switching device shown in Figure 1. Taking the transmission connection between the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 through the drive worm gear 12 and the drive worm 13 as an example, this application also provides a drive gear 23 on the switching member 21, which is transmitted to the output shaft 111. The drive gear 23 is meshed with the switching gear 22. Since the drive shaft 111 and the drive gear 23 are transmitted through the drive worm gear 12 and the drive worm 13, and the drive gear 23 is located on the switching member 21, the drive member 11 will drive the drive worm 13 to rotate while rotating. The drive worm gear 12 will further drive the drive gear 23 to rotate, which will further drive the switching member 21 to rotate. The switching gear 22 is located on the switching member 21 and is meshed with the drive gear 23. Therefore, the drive gear 23 will also drive the switching gear 22 to rotate while rotating.

[0079] Optionally, the switching element 21 can be driven to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise by the drive assembly 10, so that the switching gear 22 is selectively arranged in the first position or the second position, thereby directly or indirectly meshing with the unloading device or the feeding device in the corresponding position.

[0080] In one specific embodiment, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, it will directly or indirectly mesh with the unloading device provided in the first position. When the switching gear 22 is arranged in the second position, it will directly or indirectly mesh with the feeding device provided in the second position. When the driving component 10 drives the switching member 21 to rotate clockwise, the switching gear 22 will be arranged in the first position. When the driving component 10 drives the switching member 21 to rotate counterclockwise, the switching gear 22 will be arranged in the second position.

[0081] Of course, the positions of the feeding and unloading equipment can be adjusted according to actual needs to reduce the space occupied by the transmission switching device, the unloading equipment and the feeding equipment. All of the above adjustments are allowed, and this application does not impose any further restrictions on them.

[0082] As an optional implementation, please continue to refer to Figure 3. It can be observed that the above-mentioned drive gear 23 and drive assembly 10 can be connected by the first transmission rod 24 so that when the drive member 11 rotates, it drives the drive gear 23 and the switching member 21 to rotate.

[0083] For example, knurling 241 may be provided at the position where the first transmission rod 24 connects to the drive gear 23 and the drive assembly 10.

[0084] For example, a limiting surface 242 may be provided at the position where the first transmission rod 21 is connected to the drive gear 23 and the drive assembly 10, and an abutment surface 243 adapted to the limiting surface 242 may be provided at the position where the shaft hole of the drive gear 23 and the drive assembly 10 corresponds to the limiting surface 242.

[0085] For example, a protrusion (not shown in the figure) may be provided at the position where the first transmission rod 21 is connected to the drive gear 23 and the drive assembly 10, and a groove that matches the protrusion may be provided at the position where the shaft hole of the drive gear 23 and the drive assembly 10 corresponds to the protrusion.

[0086] It is understood that when the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 are connected by a drive worm gear 12 and a drive worm 13, the shaft hole of the drive assembly 10 refers to the gear shaft hole of the drive worm gear 12. When the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 are connected by an output gear and a reduction gear, the shaft hole of the drive assembly 10 refers to the gear shaft hole of the reduction gear. When the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 are connected by an output gear, a transmission gear, and a belt or synchronous belt, the shaft hole of the drive assembly 10 refers to the gear shaft hole of the transmission gear. When the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 are connected by a reduction mechanism, the shaft hole of the drive assembly 10 refers to the shaft hole provided on the reduction mechanism. Any shaft hole configuration in which the drive member 11 drives the main control gear 23 and the switching member 21 to rotate through the first transmission rod 21 is feasible, and those skilled in the art should know this.

[0087] Similarly, taking the transmission connection between the drive assembly 10 and the switching assembly 20 via the drive worm gear 12 and the drive worm 13 as an example, please continue to refer to Figure 2. It can be observed that the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12 are connected by the first transmission rod 24. Both the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12 are provided with corresponding gear shaft holes. The first transmission rod 24 passes through the drive worm gear 12, the drive member 11 and the drive gear 23 provided on the drive member 11 in sequence, thereby realizing the transmission connection between the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12. At this time, when the drive worm gear 12 rotates, it will drive the drive gear 23 and the switching member 21 to rotate.

[0088] Optionally, to prevent the drive gear 23 and the drive component 11 from slipping or spinning during rotation, please refer to Figure 4, which is a structural schematic diagram of the knurling 241 in the transmission switching device shown in Figure 1. In this application, knurling 241 is provided at the connection position between the first transmission rod 24 and the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12 to ensure that the drive worm gear 12 rotates while driving the drive gear 23 and the switching component 21 to rotate.

[0089] The knurling 241 configuration improves the fit accuracy between the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12. This configuration is low-noise and easy to manufacture in practical applications, and does not require additional stop and limit structures for the drive worm gear 12.

[0090] As an optional implementation, please refer to Figure 5, which is a structural schematic diagram of the limiting surface 242 in the transmission switching device shown in Figure 1. The limiting surface 242 can also be provided at the position where the first transmission rod 24 connects with the driving gear 23 and the driving worm gear 12. Furthermore, an abutment surface 243 is provided at the position of the gear shaft hole of the driving gear 23 and the driving worm gear 12 corresponding to the limiting surface 242. When the first transmission rod 24 passes through the driving worm gear 12 and the driving gear 23 in sequence, the abutment surface 243 abuts against the corresponding limiting surface 242, thereby increasing the friction between the first transmission rod 24 and the driving worm gear 12 and the driving gear 23, ensuring that the driving gear 23 and the switching component 21 rotate simultaneously when the driving worm gear 12 rotates.

[0091] Of course, the first transmission rod 24 can also be set as a prism shape, and the gear shaft holes of the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12 can be set to correspond to the prism shape, which can also ensure that the drive gear 23 and the switching component 21 are rotated at the same time as the drive worm gear 12 rotates.

[0092] It should be understood that this application does not impose any further restrictions on the specific shape of the first transmission rod 24, or on the shape of the gear shaft hole of the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12. Any method that can ensure that the drive worm gear 12 rotates while driving the drive gear 23 and the switching member 21 to rotate is feasible, and this application does not impose any further restrictions on it.

[0093] Although this method of setting the limiting surface 242 and the contact surface 243 is easy to assemble, it is prone to wear at the contact position after long-term use, which leads to a decrease in the matching accuracy between the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12. In addition, this configuration is noisy and requires an additional stop and limiting structure for the drive worm gear 12.

[0094] As an optional implementation, a protrusion can be provided at the position where the first transmission rod 24 connects with the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12, and a groove adapted to the protrusion can be provided at the position of the gear shaft hole of the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12 corresponding to the limiting surface 242. When the first transmission rod 24 passes through the drive worm gear 12 and the drive gear 23 in sequence, the protrusion is engaged with the groove, thereby increasing the friction between the first transmission rod 24 and the drive worm gear 12 and the drive gear 23, ensuring that the drive gear 23 and the switching member 21 are rotated at the same time as the drive worm gear 12 rotates.

[0095] It should be understood that this application does not impose any further restrictions on the specific shape and actual number of the protrusions provided on the first transmission rod 24. As long as it can ensure that the drive worm gear 12 rotates while driving the drive gear 23 and the switching member 21 to rotate, it is feasible. This application does not impose any further restrictions on this.

[0096] The above-mentioned method of engaging the protrusion with the groove is easy to assemble, has high matching accuracy between the drive gear 23 and the drive worm gear 12, and has low noise and is not easy to wear in practical applications. However, it is not easy to process and produce, and requires an additional stop and limit structure for the drive worm gear 12.

[0097] It is evident that the aforementioned knurling 241, limiting surface 242, abutting surface 243, and protrusion engaging with groove all have their advantages and disadvantages. The connection between the first transmission rod 24, the drive gear 23, and the drive worm gear 12 can be set according to actual needs, and this application does not impose further restrictions on this.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 6, which is a three-dimensional assembly view of the switching component 21 in the transmission switching device shown in Figure 1. The switching component 21 provided in this application includes two opposing limiting walls 211. The two limiting walls 211 clamp the driving gear 23 and the switching gear 22 between the two limiting walls 211, and through holes are provided on the two limiting walls 211 for the first transmission rod 24 to pass through.

[0099] As an optional implementation, one end of the two limiting walls 211 can be connected by a clamping member 212. The two ends of the clamping member 212 are respectively connected to the corresponding limiting walls 211, and the clamping member 212 has a certain elasticity, thereby clamping the driving gear 23 and the switching gear 22 between the two limiting walls 211.

[0100] Furthermore, the other end of the two limiting walls 211 is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure, thereby realizing the snap-fit ​​connection between the two limiting walls 211. This facilitates the adjustment and replacement of the drive gear 23 and the switching gear 22 according to actual needs, and makes it easy to disassemble and install the drive gear 23 and the switching gear 22. Of course, it is also feasible to replace the snap-fit ​​structure at the other end of the two limiting walls 211 with the clamping member 212 mentioned above. In principle, the setting position of the two limiting walls 211 and the clamping member 212 should not affect the meshing connection between the switching gear 22 and the corresponding equipment.

[0101] As an alternative implementation, the ends of the two limiting walls 211 can be connected by threaded bolts to increase the connection strength between the two limiting walls 211.

[0102] In this embodiment of the application, in order to increase the friction and avoid the switching member 21 from rotating too slowly due to weight imbalance, a swing gear 25 that meshes with the drive gear 23 can also be provided on the switching member 21.

[0103] Preferably, referring to Figure 6, the oscillating gear 25 can be set to a gear with a diameter and weight similar to that of the switching gear 22. The oscillating gear 25 and the switching gear 22 are positioned opposite each other at both ends of the switching member 21 and are respectively meshed with the driving gear 23. At this time, the weights of the two ends of the switching member 21 are balanced, thereby increasing the overall friction between the driving gear 23, the switching gear 22, the oscillating gear 25 and the two limiting walls 211. This also makes the switching member 21 rotate more smoothly and avoids malfunctions.

[0104] As an optional implementation, this application provides a switching shaft 213 at the position of the switching member 21 corresponding to the switching gear 22. The switching shaft 213 passes through the gear shaft hole of the switching gear 22, so that the switching gear 22 can rotate between the two limiting walls 211. A swing shaft 214 is provided at the position of the switching member 21 corresponding to the swing gear 25. The swing shaft 214 passes through the gear shaft hole of the swing gear 25, so that the swing gear 25 can rotate between the two limiting walls 211. The switching gear 22 and the swing gear 25 are correspondingly arranged on the switching member 21 through the switching shaft 213 and the swing shaft 214.

[0105] This application uses the drive assembly 10 to drive the switching component 21 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, so that the switching gear 22 is selectively arranged in the first position or the second position, thereby directly or indirectly meshing with the corresponding unloading or feeding device to realize the unloading or feeding of consumables.

[0106] Based on the aforementioned transmission switching device, this application also provides a material unloading device, which includes an unloading component 30, capable of unloading consumables through the unloading component 30 and the aforementioned transmission switching device.

[0107] As an optional implementation, please continue to refer to Figure 1. The ejector assembly 30 includes an ejector roller 32 and an ejector gear 31 connected to the ejector roller 32. In actual printing, a material tray (not shown in the figure) can be mounted on the ejector roller 32. Since the material tray is wound with the consumables required for 3D printing, the material tray will rotate along its own axis during the feeding or ejection of the consumables. In this application, the ejector gear 31 is mounted on the ejector roller 32. During the ejection of the consumables, the excess consumables can be rewound back onto the material tray by driving the ejector roller 32 to rotate.

[0108] In this embodiment, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, it can directly or indirectly mesh with the unloading gear 31. At this time, the rotation of the switching gear 22 further drives the unloading gear 31 to rotate, so that the material tray mounted on the unloading roller 32 rotates counterclockwise to achieve unloading.

[0109] Specifically, when the switching gear 22 is directly connected to the unloading gear 31, the material tray mounted on the unloading roller 32 needs to rotate clockwise to unload the material. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the unloading gear 31 and the unloading roller 32 rotate counterclockwise. At this time, the switching gear 22 needs to be controlled to rotate clockwise by the drive assembly 10. Since the switching gear 22 is directly meshed with the drive gear 23, it is necessary to ensure that the drive gear 23 rotates counterclockwise.

[0110] In other words, when the switching gear 22 is directly connected to the unloading gear 31, the drive assembly 10 needs to control the drive gear 23 to rotate counterclockwise. At this time, the switching gear 22, which meshes with the drive gear 23, rotates clockwise, so that the unloading gear 31, which meshes directly with the switching gear 22, rotates counterclockwise. The unloading roller 32 and the unloading gear 31 are coaxially arranged and also rotate counterclockwise, so that the material tray mounted on the unloading roller 32 rotates clockwise, rewinding the excess consumables back onto the material tray, thus realizing the unloading of consumables.

[0111] As an alternative implementation, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, indirect meshing between the switching gear 22 and the unloading gear 31 may be achieved through the first gear assembly.

[0112] For example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, this application provides a first gear 33 between the switching gear 22 and the unloading gear 31. The outer tooth profile of the first gear 33 meshes with the switching gear 22 and the unloading gear 31 respectively. Of course, several first gears 33 can also be provided between the switching gear 22 and the unloading gear 31. This application does not further limit the specific number of first gears 33.

[0113] In this embodiment, when the number of first gears 33 is configured to be odd, since the material tray mounted on the unloading roller 32 needs to rotate clockwise to achieve unloading, it is necessary to ensure that the unloading gear 31 and the unloading roller 32 rotate counterclockwise. At this time, it is necessary to ensure that the first gear 33 directly meshing with the unloading gear 31 rotates clockwise. Since the number of first gears 33 is odd, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the switching gear 22 should also rotate clockwise. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the switching gear 22 rotates counterclockwise, and the corresponding driving gear 23 should rotate clockwise.

[0114] Similarly, when the number of first gears 33 is configured to be even, it is also necessary to ensure that the ejector gear 31 and ejector roller 32 rotate counterclockwise. At this time, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the ejector gear 31 rotates clockwise. Since the number of first gears 33 is even, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the switching gear 22 rotates counterclockwise. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the switching gear 22 rotates clockwise, and the corresponding driving gear 23 should rotate counterclockwise.

[0115] In other words, when the number of first gears 33 is odd, the switching gear 22 needs to be controlled to rotate counterclockwise to drive the unloading gear 31 to rotate counterclockwise. When the number of first gears 33 is even, the switching gear 22 needs to be controlled to rotate clockwise to drive the unloading gear 31 to rotate counterclockwise. In principle, regardless of whether the number of first gears 33 is odd or even, or whether the first gear 33 is not set, it is necessary to ensure that the unloading gear 31 and the unloading roller 32 rotate counterclockwise so that the material tray mounted on the unloading roller 32 rotates clockwise to achieve unloading. This application will not elaborate further here.

[0116] Optionally, a silicone sleeve 321 can be provided on the unloading roller 32 to apply sufficient friction to the material tray when the unloading roller 32 rotates, so as to ensure that the material tray rotates clockwise to achieve unloading.

[0117] As an optional implementation, a consumable detection component can be set to monitor the rotation information of the ejection gear 31, thereby obtaining the amount of consumable ejected.

[0118] In one specific embodiment provided in this application, the above-mentioned consumable detection component can be set as a photoelectric encoder (not shown in the figure). The photoelectric encoder is connected to the ejection gear 31 for transmission. Since the photoelectric encoder will rotate synchronously when the ejection gear 31 rotates, the ejection amount of consumables within a certain time period can be collected by the photoelectric encoder. As for how to obtain the ejection amount of consumables based on the rotation information of the ejection gear 31, it is an existing technology that is widely used in the field of photoelectric encoders, and this application will not elaborate further on it.

[0119] In another specific embodiment provided in this application, the above-mentioned consumable detection component can be set as a Hall sensor (not shown in the figure) and a magnetic component. The magnetic component is set as needed in the unloading gear 31. During the unloading process, the unloading gear 31 drives the magnetic component to rotate synchronously. The Hall sensor is fixedly set near the unloading gear 31. The Hall sensor can output a corresponding pulse signal according to the change in the magnetic field strength of the magnetic component. The pulse signal is sent to the main controller for signal processing, thereby calculating the current unloading amount of consumables based on the pulse signal. Similarly, how the main controller calculates the current unloading amount of consumables based on the pulse signal is an existing technology in which Hall sensors are widely used in the field of mileage calculation, and this application will not elaborate on it further.

[0120] Of course, the amount of consumables returned can also be obtained through other forms of angular velocity detection. This application does not impose any further restrictions on the setting of the above-mentioned consumable detection components.

[0121] In an optional embodiment, the aforementioned drive component 11 can be configured as a drive motor. Referring to Figure 1, this application has a drive worm gear 13 connected to the output shaft 111 of the drive motor. The drive worm gear 13 is meshed with the drive worm wheel 12. The drive motor drives the drive worm gear 13 to further drive the drive worm wheel 12 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Of course, as long as it can provide driving force to the drive gear 23 and the switching component 21, so that they rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, and the switching gear 22 switches between the first position and the second position, any form of drive component 11 can be used. This application does not impose any further restrictions on this.

[0122] Based on the aforementioned transmission switching device, this application also provides a feeding device, which includes a feeding assembly 40, through which the feeding assembly 40 and the aforementioned transmission switching device are used to feed consumables.

[0123] As an optional implementation, please continue to refer to Figure 2. The feeding assembly 40 provided in this application includes a feeding gear set 42 and a feeding gear 41. The feeding gear set 42 is coaxially arranged with the feeding gear 41, and the feeding gear set 42 is provided with a clamping gap (not shown in the figure) for the consumable to pass through. In this application, the feeding gear 41 is connected to the feeding gear set 42. When the switching gear 22 is arranged in the second position, the switching gear 22 directly or indirectly meshes with the feeding gear 41. The switching gear 22 drives the feeding gear 41 to rotate clockwise, thereby driving the feeding gear set 42 to rotate clockwise, extruding the consumable to achieve feeding.

[0124] Specifically, when the switching gear 22 is directly connected to the feeding gear 41, since the feeding gear set 42 needs to rotate clockwise to feed the consumables, it is necessary to ensure that both the feeding gear 41 and the feeding gear set 42 rotate clockwise. At this time, the switching gear 22 should rotate counterclockwise, and the corresponding drive gear 23 should rotate clockwise.

[0125] In other words, when the switching gear 22 is directly connected to the feeding gear 41, the drive assembly 10 needs to control the drive gear 23 to rotate clockwise. At this time, the switching gear 22, which meshes with the drive gear 23, rotates counterclockwise so that the feeding gear 41, which meshes directly with the switching gear 22, rotates clockwise. The feeding gear set 42, which is coaxial with the feeding gear 41, also rotates clockwise so that the consumables are extruded and feeding is achieved.

[0126] As an alternative implementation, when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the second position, indirect meshing between the switching gear 22 and the feed gear 41 can be achieved through the first gear assembly.

[0127] For example, a first gear 33 (not shown in the figure) can be provided between the switching gear 22 and the feeding gear 41. The outer tooth profile of the first gear 33 is meshed with the switching gear 22 and the feeding gear 41 respectively. Of course, several first gears 33 can also be provided between the switching gear 22 and the feeding gear 41. This application does not further limit the specific number of first gears 33.

[0128] Since the feeding gear set 42 needs to rotate clockwise to feed consumables, it is necessary to ensure that both the feeding gear 41 and the feeding gear set 42 rotate clockwise. At this time, it is necessary to ensure that the first gear 33 directly meshing with the feeding gear 41 rotates counterclockwise. Since the number of first gears 33 is odd, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the switching gear 22 should also rotate counterclockwise. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the switching gear 22 rotates clockwise, and the corresponding driving gear 23 should rotate counterclockwise.

[0129] Similarly, when the number of first gears 33 is configured to be even, it is also necessary to ensure that the feed gear 41 and the feeding gear set 42 rotate clockwise. At this time, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the feed gear 41 rotates counterclockwise. Since the number of first gears 33 is even, the first gear 33 directly meshing with the switching gear 22 rotates clockwise. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the switching gear 22 rotates counterclockwise, and the corresponding driving gear 23 should rotate clockwise.

[0130] In other words, when the number of first gears 33 is odd, the switching gear 22 needs to be controlled to rotate clockwise to drive the feeding gear 41 to rotate clockwise. When the number of first gears 33 is even, the switching gear 22 needs to be controlled to rotate counterclockwise to drive the feeding gear 41 to rotate clockwise. In principle, regardless of whether the number of first gears 33 is odd or even, or whether the first gear 33 is not set, it is necessary to ensure that the feeding gear 41 and the feeding gear set 42 rotate clockwise to drive the material tray to rotate counterclockwise, so that the consumables are squeezed out of the feeding equipment to achieve feeding. The above settings are all feasible, and this application does not impose too many restrictions on them.

[0131] As an optional implementation, a consumable detection component can also be set to monitor the rotation information of the feed gear 41, thereby obtaining the feed amount of consumables.

[0132] Similarly, the above-mentioned consumable detection component can be set as a photoelectric encoder (not shown in the figure), and the photoelectric encoder can be connected to the feeding gear 41 for transmission. Since the photoelectric encoder will rotate synchronously when the feeding gear 41 rotates, the feeding amount of consumables within a certain period of time can be collected through the photoelectric encoder. Alternatively, the above-mentioned consumable detection component can be set as a Hall sensor (not shown in the figure) and a magnetic component. The magnetic component can be set as needed in the feeding gear 41. During the feeding process, the ejector gear 31 drives the magnetic component to rotate synchronously. The Hall sensor is fixedly set near the feeding gear 41 to further obtain the current feeding amount of consumables.

[0133] Of course, the feed amount of consumables can also be obtained through other forms of angular velocity detection. This application does not impose further restrictions on the setting of the above-mentioned consumable detection components.

[0134] Based on the aforementioned transmission switching device, unloading device, and feeding device, please refer to Figure 11, which is a structural schematic diagram of the housing 51 in the 3D printer shown in Figure 8. This application also provides a 3D printer, which is provided with a frame 50 for mounting the aforementioned transmission switching device, unloading device, and feeding device, and a housing 51 for accommodating the aforementioned transmission switching device, unloading device, and feeding device.

[0135] As an optional implementation, please refer to Figure 7, which is a structural schematic diagram of the first gear 33 in the transmission switching device shown in Figure 1. In this application, a first gear 33 that meshes with the unloading gear 31 is provided on the frame 50. A first limiting groove 216 is provided at the position of the switching member 21 at the first gear 33. When the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position and indirectly meshes with the unloading gear 31, the first limiting groove 216 will abut against the side wall of the frame 50, thereby limiting the switching gear 22 to the first position.

[0136] Since the first limiting groove 216 abuts against the side wall of the frame 50 when the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position and indirectly meshes with the unloading gear 31, and the side wall of the switching member 21 abuts against the side wall of the frame 50 when it is arranged in the second position and indirectly meshes with the feeding gear 41, the position detection mechanism can be set at the positions of the frame 50 corresponding to the first and second positions to determine whether the switching gear 22 is arranged in the first position, the second position, or between the first and second positions. Of course, the position detection mechanism can be set as a photoelectric detection mechanism, a Hall effect detection mechanism, a mechanical detection mechanism, or other detection mechanisms. Any setting form selected is feasible as long as it can detect the current position of the switching gear 22. This application does not impose any further restrictions on this.

[0137] It should be noted that since the transmission switching device, the unloading device, and the feeding device are all located inside the frame 50, the frame 50 can be configured as an integral molding structure or a detachable structure as required. Setting it as an integral molding structure can ensure the overall structural strength of the frame 50 and reduce production costs after mold opening. Setting it as a detachable structure makes it easier to disassemble and maintain the transmission switching device, the unloading device, or the feeding device. Both of these configuration methods are feasible.

[0138] Of course, a cover (not shown in the figure) can also be installed on the frame 50 to protect the integrated structure inside the frame 50, so as to prevent dust from affecting the working accuracy of the transmission switching device, the unloading device or the feeding device, and increasing the later maintenance cost.

[0139] Furthermore, several sets of matching transmission switching devices, unloading devices, and feeding devices can be provided inside the housing 51, which can simultaneously realize the feeding and unloading operations of several material trays.

[0140] For example, please refer to Figure 9, which is a structural schematic diagram of the frame 50 in the 3D printer shown in Figure 8. This application provides four sets of matching transmission switching devices, unloading devices and feeding devices in the housing 51, which can realize the feeding and unloading operations of four material trays at the same time. Of course, the number of the above-mentioned transmission switching devices, unloading devices and feeding devices can be adjusted according to the actual size of the housing 51. This application does not impose any further restrictions on this.

[0141] Optionally, please refer to Figure 10, which is a structural schematic diagram of the discharge port 52 in the 3D printer shown in Figure 8. This application also provides a discharge port 52 at the bottom of the housing 51 corresponding to the feeding, so that the consumable material can pass out from the discharge port 52 and cooperate with the 3D printer to print the model. This application also provides a sealing port 53 at the bottom of the housing 51, which can prevent the consumable material from absorbing humid air and affecting the printing effect.

[0142] For other details regarding the implementation of the above technical solution in the 3D printer, please refer to the descriptions of the transmission switching device, material ejection device, and material feeding device provided in the above application embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0143] The transmission switching device, feeding device, unloading device, and 3D printer provided in this application are applied to the feeding and unloading of consumables wound on a spool. A switching gear is positioned at a first or second position via a drive assembly to transmit the driving force of the drive component to a device directly or indirectly meshing with the switching gear, thereby achieving the feeding or unloading of consumables. This application controls the rotation of the output shaft and the switching component, which is connected to the output shaft via the drive component, so that the switching gear on the switching component directly or indirectly meshes with the corresponding feeding or unloading device, thus transmitting the driving force of the drive component to the device directly or indirectly meshing with the switching gear. By switching the switching gear between the first and second positions, the requirement to switch between the feeding and unloading states of the consumables is met, improving the reliability of consumable feeding and unloading, and ensuring 3D printing efficiency and printing quality. The first gear is provided in the first and / or second positions to mesh with the feeding or unloading device. By adjusting the number of the first gears and the rotation direction of the switching gear, the clockwise or counterclockwise rotation requirement of the material tray can be met to achieve higher torque. Moreover, this application does not require a separate drive component for the feeding or unloading device, reducing the space occupied and effectively reducing production and manufacturing costs.

[0144] It is understood that the technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the 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.

[0145] The above embodiments are merely exemplary implementations used to illustrate the principles of this application; however, this application is not limited thereto. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and substance of this application, and these modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A transmission switching device for feeding and withdrawing a consumable on a tray, characterized by, The transmission switching device comprises: a switching assembly comprising a switching piece and a switching gear arranged on the switching piece; a driving assembly comprising a driving piece and an output shaft arranged on the driving piece, the output shaft being in driving connection with the switching piece; wherein the driving assembly is configured to selectively arrange the switching gear in a first position or a second position to transmit the driving force of the driving piece to a device in direct or indirect engagement with the switching gear.

2. The shift apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The transmission switching device further comprises a first gear assembly comprising at least one first gear, the first gear being in meshing connection with the switching gear arranged in the first position or the second position to transmit the driving force of the driving piece to a device in engagement with the first gear.

3. The shift apparatus of claim 2 wherein, When the number of the first gears is 2n-1, the switching gear rotates in the opposite direction of the tray; when the number of the first gears is 2n, the switching gear rotates in the same direction of the tray.

4. The shift apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The driving assembly further comprises a driving worm arranged on the output shaft and a driving worm wheel in driving connection with the switching piece, the driving worm being in meshing connection with the driving worm wheel; wherein one end of the driving worm close to the driving worm wheel is provided with a threaded groove, the threaded groove being in meshing connection with the outer tooth profile of the driving worm wheel.

5. The shift apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The driving assembly further comprises an output gear arranged on the output shaft and a transmission gear in driving connection with the switching piece, the output gear and the transmission gear being in driving connection through a synchronous belt.

6. The shift apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The driving assembly further comprises a speed reduction mechanism arranged on the output shaft, the speed reduction mechanism being in driving connection with the switching piece.

7. A shift device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that The switching piece is further provided with a driving gear in meshing connection with the switching gear, the driving gear being in driving connection with the output shaft of the driving assembly; The driving assembly is configured to drive the switching piece to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to selectively arrange the switching gear in the first position or the second position.

8. The shift apparatus of claim 7 wherein, The driving gear and the driving assembly are in driving connection through a first transmission rod to drive the driving gear and the switching piece to rotate when the driving piece rotates.

9. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The first transmission rod is provided with knurling at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly.

10. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The first transmission rod is provided with a limiting surface at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly, and the shaft hole of the driving gear and the driving assembly is provided with an abutting surface corresponding to the position of the limiting surface.

11. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The first transmission rod is provided with a protruding portion at the positions where the first transmission rod is connected with the driving gear and the driving assembly, and the shaft hole of the driving gear and the driving assembly is provided with a recessed portion corresponding to the position of the protruding portion.

12. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The switching piece comprises two oppositely arranged limiting walls, and the two limiting walls are provided with through holes for the first transmission rod to pass through; The driving gear and the switching gear are arranged between the two limiting walls.

13. The shift apparatus of claim 12 wherein, One end of the two limiting walls is connected through a clamping piece, two ends of the clamping piece are respectively connected with the corresponding limiting wall, so as to clamp the driving gear and the switching gear between the two limiting walls.

14. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The first transmission rod is in a prismatic shape, and the gear shaft holes of the driving gear and the driving worm gear are matched with the first transmission rod.

15. The shift apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The switching member is further provided with a swing gear engaged with the driving gear, and the swing gear and the switching gear are oppositely arranged at two ends of the switching member. The switching member is provided with a switching rotating shaft for the rotation of the switching gear at a position corresponding to the switching gear, and a swing rotating shaft for the rotation of the swing gear at a position corresponding to the swing gear.

16. A scrap material removal apparatus characterized by, The transmission switching device according to any one of claims 1-15; The transmission switching device according to any one of claims 1-15; The material returning assembly includes a material returning roller and a material returning gear connected with the material returning roller, the material returning gear is configured to be directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear, and the material returning gear is driven to rotate counterclockwise by the switching gear, so as to drive the material tray on the material returning roller to rotate clockwise to realize material returning. When the switching gear is arranged at the first position, the first gear assembly is connected with the switching gear and the material returning gear respectively; 17. The material return apparatus of claim 16, wherein, When the number of the first gears is odd, the switching gear rotates counterclockwise to drive the material returning gear to rotate counterclockwise; when the number of the first gears is even, the switching gear rotates clockwise to drive the material returning gear to rotate counterclockwise, and the material returning gear is driven to rotate counterclockwise to realize material returning. The transmission switching device according to any one of claims 1-15; 18. A feeding apparatus characterized by, The transmission switching device according to any one of claims 1-15; The feeding assembly includes a feeding gear set and a feeding gear connected with the feeding gear set, the feeding gear is configured to be directly or indirectly engaged with the switching gear, and the feeding gear is driven to rotate clockwise by the switching gear, so as to drive the feeding gear set to rotate clockwise to realize feeding. When the switching gear is arranged at the second position, the first gear assembly is connected with the switching gear and the feeding gear respectively; When the number of the first gears is odd, the switching gear rotates clockwise to drive the feeding gear to rotate clockwise; when the number of the first gears is even, the switching gear rotates counterclockwise to drive the feeding gear to rotate clockwise, and the feeding gear is driven to rotate clockwise to realize feeding.

19. The feed apparatus of claim 18, wherein, The 3D printer includes the transmission switching device according to any one of claims 1-15, or the material returning device according to any one of claims 16-17, or the feeding device according to any one of claims 18-19. ​ 20. A 3D printer characterized by, ​

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