Gas purification method for three-dimensional printing, gas purification apparatus, and 3D printing system
By using a photocatalyst to project light and input oxygen and ozone to decompose VOCs in 3D printing equipment, the problem of low air purification efficiency in 3D printing equipment is solved, achieving efficient and sustainable gas purification effects and protecting the health of operators.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGZHOU HEIGE ZHIZAO INFORMATION TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-07
AI Technical Summary
Existing 3D printing equipment generates volatile organic compound (VOC) gas pollution when using photosensitive resins or hot-melt plastics, resulting in low air purification efficiency and poor sustainability, which endangers the health of operators.
A photocatalyst is used to project light of a predetermined wavelength into the target space and input oxygen and/or ozone, thereby decomposing VOCs using the principle of photocatalytic oxidation to generate harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide.
It significantly reduces the concentration of harmful gases, improves the safety of the 3D printing environment, has good sustainability and environmental friendliness, and avoids the need for frequent filter replacements.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025130292_07052026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Gas purification methods, gas purification devices, and 3D printing systems for 3D printing
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411538326X, filed on October 30, 2024, entitled "Gas Purification Method and 3D Printing System for 3D Printing," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference; Chinese Patent Application No. 2024226382463, filed on October 30, 2024, entitled "Air Purification Module, 3D Printing Equipment and 3D Printing System," also filed on October 30, 2024, entitled "Air Purification Module, 3D Printing Equipment and 3D Printing System," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference; and Chinese Patent Application No. 2025209808898, filed on May 16, 2025, entitled "Air Purification Device and 3D Printing System," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This application relates to the field of 3D printing technology, specifically to a gas purification method, gas purification device, and 3D printing system for 3D printing. Background Technology
[0003] 3D printing is a rapid prototyping manufacturing technology that transforms digital models of materials such as resin, plastic, and metal into physical models by building objects layer by layer. 3D printing processes include: Stereolithography (SLA), which uses photosensitive resin as the material and employs a UV laser to scan the liquid resin to solidify it layer by layer; Digital Light Processing (DLP), where a light source irradiates liquid photosensitive resin in a patterned manner to solidify it layer by layer; Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), which uses powdered metal as the material and uses a laser under computer control to scan and irradiate the powder to achieve sintering; and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), which heats and melts a filament of thermoplastic material, extrudes the material through a nozzle, and the molten filament adheres to the previous layer to form a solid model.
[0004] For 3D printing equipment that uses photosensitive resins or hot-melt plastics as printing materials, these materials inevitably release volatile gases during placement or printing. These gases may contain various components such as hydrocarbons, halogenated hydrocarbons, aldehydes and ketones, esters, alcohols, and amides, collectively known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Because VOCs have diverse properties and some components are toxic, they may pollute the printing environment and pose potential health hazards to operators.
[0005] With the increasing popularity of 3D printing technology, air pollution caused by printing materials (e.g., in the printing area and inside the printer) is becoming increasingly prominent. Current 3D printing equipment on the market uses activated carbon filters or negative pressure ventilation to exhaust gases generated during the printing process. However, activated carbon filters become saturated and ineffective after a period of time, requiring frequent replacement to maintain purification efficiency. For enclosed spaces, using negative pressure ventilation to exhaust gases from inside the printing equipment (e.g., in manufacturing rooms) still poses health threats to operators. Therefore, there is a need to explore an efficient and sustainable air purification solution to reduce or eliminate health risks (e.g., respiratory, allergic, carcinogenic) for users operating printing equipment. Technical issues
[0006] To address the issues of low air purification efficiency and poor sustainability in the current 3D printing industry, this application provides a gas purification method, gas purification device, and 3D printing system for 3D printing, aiming to solve these problems. Technical solutions
[0007] The first aspect of this application provides a gas purification method for 3D printing, comprising: providing a target space in which printing material for 3D printing is disposed, such that the target space includes a target gas originating from the printing material; disposing a photocatalyst in the target space; projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst to excite the photocatalyst; introducing oxygen into the target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space; and introducing ozone into the target space and / or generating ozone in the target space.
[0008] This application proposes a gas purification method based on the catalytic oxidation principle of photocatalysts, aiming to solve the air pollution problem generated during 3D printing, particularly for the efficient purification of harmful gases such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds). This method accelerates the decomposition of VOCs under light and catalyst conditions by injecting oxygen into the target space inside or around the 3D printing equipment, and by injecting ozone to promote the oxidation of the small molecule products obtained from the decomposition, converting them into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. This significantly reduces the concentration of harmful gases in a short time, improving the safety of the 3D printing environment. Furthermore, since the photocatalyst is not consumed during the reaction and the final products are harmless, this technical solution also exhibits good sustainability and environmental friendliness.
[0009] In some embodiments, the target space is configured to accommodate at least one 3D printing device; or is defined by a single 3D printing device.
[0010] In some embodiments, the 3D printing equipment includes any one of DLP printing equipment, LCD printing equipment, FDM printing equipment, SLA printing equipment, and inkjet 3D printing equipment.
[0011] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide.
[0012] In some embodiments, the modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide.
[0013] In some embodiments, light of a predetermined wavelength includes visible light and / or ultraviolet light.
[0014] In some embodiments, a first light source is used to emit visible light; and / or a second light source, independent of the first light source, is used to emit ultraviolet light.
[0015] In some embodiments, the light of the predetermined wavelength includes at least one wavelength selected from the following ranges: 190nm to 280nm, 281nm to 320nm, and 321nm to 400nm. For example, 240nm to 260nm, 310nm to 320nm, and 340nm to 360nm.
[0016] In some embodiments, introducing oxygen into a target space includes continuously or intermittently introducing oxygen into the target space at a predetermined flow rate to promote the decomposition of organic compounds in the target gas.
[0017] In some embodiments, supplying oxygen to the target space includes: using an oxygen supply device to supply oxygen of a predetermined concentration to the target space, the predetermined concentration being 25% to 100%.
[0018] In some embodiments, introducing oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen toward the photocatalyst, such that within a 0.5m radius centered on the photocatalyst... 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 28%–70%.
[0019] In some embodiments, introducing oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen into the target space such that a 5m radius centered on the photocatalyst is formed. 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 30% to 50%. For example, 30% to 45%, or 35% to 40%.
[0020] In some embodiments, introducing ozone into a target space and / or generating ozone in a target space includes: using light of a predetermined wavelength to decompose oxygen in the target space to obtain ozone; and / or using an electric current to decompose oxygen in the target space to obtain ozone; and / or introducing ozone into the target space independently of the ozone in the target space.
[0021] In some embodiments, the concentrations of oxygen and ozone introduced into the target space are configured such that the concentrations of the target gas and ozone in at least a portion of the target space are both 0 to 0.050 mg / m³. 3 Preferably 0–0.005 mg / m³ 3 .
[0022] In some embodiments, the above-described gas purification method further includes: using a ventilation device to accelerate the flow of gas in the target space.
[0023] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: detecting the concentration of a target gas associated with the printing material in the target space; and when the detected concentration of the target gas is greater than a first predetermined concentration, projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst.
[0024] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: detecting the concentration of a target gas associated with the printing material in the target space; when the detected concentration of the target gas is less than a second predetermined concentration, stopping the projection of light of a predetermined wavelength and stopping the input and / or generation of ozone.
[0025] In some embodiments, the above gas purification method further includes: collecting or removing the gas after purification and / or the products obtained by purifying the gas.
[0026] In some embodiments, the above-described gas purification method further includes: arranging one or more of activated carbon filter cartridges, HEPA filter cartridges, particulate filter cartridges, fiber filter cartridges, and electrostatic filter cartridges in the target space.
[0027] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a gas purification device, comprising:
[0028] Photocatalyst unit, including photocatalyst;
[0029] A light source assembly configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto a photocatalyst; and
[0030] An ozone supply device configured to introduce ozone into a target space or generate ozone in a target space.
[0031] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes:
[0032] An oxygen supply device is configured to supply oxygen to a target space in order to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space.
[0033] In some embodiments, the photocatalytic unit further includes one or more of activated carbon filter, HEPA filter, particulate filter, fiber filter and electrostatic filter.
[0034] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide;
[0035] And / or, the photocatalyst unit also includes a support for carrying the photocatalyst;
[0036] And / or, the light source component is an ultraviolet light source.
[0037] In some embodiments, the modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of the following: non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide.
[0038] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes: a housing, the housing defining a gas passage communicating with a target space, the housing having an air inlet for allowing airflow to flow into the gas passage and an air outlet for allowing airflow to flow out of the gas passage, and a photocatalyst disposed within the gas passage.
[0039] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes:
[0040] An inner cylinder is installed in the gas passage, dividing the gas passage into a first airflow channel and a second airflow channel; an ozone supply device is installed in the second airflow channel, and the ozone generated by the ozone supply device flows from the second airflow channel to the first airflow channel.
[0041] In some embodiments, the air inlet includes a first air inlet, the air outlet includes a first air outlet, the first air inlet is connected to a first airflow channel, and the first air outlet is connected to the first airflow channel.
[0042] In some embodiments, the housing includes a body and a top cover connected together, a first air inlet is disposed on the body, a first air outlet is disposed on the top cover, and the top cover is disposed on the side of the inner cylinder away from the first air inlet.
[0043] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes a base, and an outer shell and an inner cylinder are respectively connected to the base.
[0044] In some embodiments, the first air inlet is disposed on the base and the first air outlet is disposed on the housing.
[0045] In some embodiments, the air inlet further includes a second air inlet, and the air outlet further includes a second air outlet. The second air inlet is connected to a second airflow channel, and the second air outlet is connected to a first airflow channel and a second airflow channel, so that the ozone generated by the ozone supply device flows from the second air outlet to the first airflow channel.
[0046] In some embodiments, both the second air inlet and the second air outlet are located within the inner cylinder; or
[0047] The second air inlet is located on the base, and the second air outlet is located on the inner cylinder.
[0048] In some embodiments, both the light source assembly and the photocatalyst unit are disposed in the first airflow channel.
[0049] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes: a base, a photocatalyst unit disposed on the outer periphery of the inner cylinder; and a light source assembly mounted on the base and disposed opposite to the photocatalyst unit.
[0050] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst covers the second air outlet.
[0051] In some embodiments, the ozone supply device includes a housing and an ozone generating unit, the ozone generating unit being installed inside the housing; the housing is disposed inside the inner cylinder and is detachably connected to the inner cylinder.
[0052] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes an ozone oxidation module configured to react with ozone generated by the ozone supply device to generate a strong oxidizing substance, which is used to purify unreacted harmful substances in the gas flow exiting the first gas flow channel.
[0053] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes an ozone decomposition module, wherein the ozone decomposition module and the ozone oxidation module are stacked together, and the ozone decomposition module is configured to catalytically decompose unreacted ozone in the gas flow from the first gas flow channel.
[0054] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes a ventilation device for accelerating the flow of gas in the target space.
[0055] In some embodiments, the ventilation device is a fan assembly disposed on the outside of the housing.
[0056] In some embodiments, the gas purification device further includes a cover, which is disposed on the outside of the housing.
[0057] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a 3D printing system, including a three-dimensional printing device and a gas purification device. The gas purification device is arranged in a target space associated with the printing material of the three-dimensional printing device, and the gas purification device includes:
[0058] Photocatalyst unit, including photocatalyst;
[0059] A light source assembly is configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto a photocatalyst to excite the photocatalyst to carry out a catalytic reaction;
[0060] An oxygen supply device configured to supply oxygen to a target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space; and
[0061] An ozone supply device configured to input ozone into a target space or generate ozone in a target space.
[0062] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system further includes a ventilation device for accelerating the flow of gas in the target space.
[0063] In some embodiments, the oxygen supply device includes a molecular sieve.
[0064] In some embodiments, the gas purification device includes a housing that defines a gas passage in communication with a target space. The housing has an air inlet for allowing airflow to enter the gas passage and an air outlet for allowing airflow to exit the gas passage. A photocatalyst is disposed within the gas passage.
[0065] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide;
[0066] And / or, the photocatalyst unit also includes a support for carrying the photocatalyst, the photocatalyst being disposed on the support;
[0067] And / or, the light source component is an ultraviolet light source.
[0068] In some embodiments, the modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of the following: non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide.
[0069] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system further includes a detection unit and a controller, wherein:
[0070] The detection unit is used to detect the concentration of the target gas in the target space;
[0071] The controller is communicatively connected to the light source assembly, ozone supply device, oxygen supply device, and detection unit, respectively; the controller is used to control the light source assembly, ozone supply device, and oxygen supply device according to the concentration of the target gas.
[0072] In some embodiments, the detection unit includes an ozone sensor for detecting ozone levels.
[0073] In some embodiments, the 3D printing device has a closed target space; or
[0074] The target space contains at least one 3D printing device.
[0075] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system further includes an exhaust gas treatment device for collecting or removing products obtained by purifying the target gas and / or gases after purification.
[0076] In some embodiments, the 3D printing device further includes a printer housing, and the housing is detachably connected to the printer housing.
[0077] In some embodiments, the outer casing is provided with a first connecting portion, and the printer casing is provided with a second connecting portion; the gas purification device is bonded to the second connecting portion of the 3D printing device through the first connecting portion; or the gas purification device is snapped to the second connecting portion of the 3D printing device through the first connecting portion; or the gas purification device is magnetically connected to the second connecting portion of the 3D printing device through the first connecting portion; or the gas purification device is carried by the second connecting portion of the 3D printing device through the first connecting portion.
[0078] In some embodiments, the printer housing and the outer casing are an integral structure.
[0079] In some embodiments, the gas purification device is disposed inside the printer housing, and the housing has a clearance portion.
[0080] In a fourth aspect, this application provides a gas purification method for 3D printing, comprising: providing a target space in which printing material for 3D printing is arranged; arranging a photocatalyst in the target space; projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst to excite it; and inputting and / or generating ozone of a predetermined concentration into the target space. In some scenarios, VOCs associated with the printing material can be decomposed by the photocatalyst and oxygen in the air. Introducing ozone at this time can oxidize the small molecule products after decomposition, thereby reducing the irritation of the related gases to workers.
[0081] In some embodiments, inputting ozone into and / or generating ozone of a predetermined concentration in a target space includes: using light to decompose oxygen in the target space to obtain ozone; or using an electric current to decompose oxygen in the target space to obtain ozone; or using an ozone supply device to output ozone into the target space.
[0082] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: introducing oxygen of a predetermined concentration into the target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space.
[0083] In some embodiments, introducing a predetermined concentration of oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen into the target space such that within 1m of the photocatalyst, the oxygen concentration is such that ... 3 or 3m 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 30%–45%.
[0084] In some embodiments, introducing oxygen of a predetermined concentration into the target space includes: using an oxygen supply device to output oxygen of a predetermined concentration to the target space, wherein the predetermined concentration is 30% to 90%.
[0085] In some embodiments, the concentrations of oxygen and ozone introduced into the target space are configured such that the concentrations of the target gas and ozone in at least a portion of the target space are both 0–0.060 mg / m³. 3 Preferred dosage: 0–0.010 mg / m³ 3 .
[0086] In a fifth aspect, this application provides a 3D printing system comprising a three-dimensional printing device and a gas purification device arranged in a target space associated with the printing material of the three-dimensional printing device. The gas purification device includes: a photocatalyst unit including a photocatalyst; a light source assembly configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst; and an ozone supply device configured to introduce ozone into the target space or generate ozone in the target space.
[0087] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0088] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiments below. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:
[0089] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the gas purification device provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0090] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0091] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0092] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0093] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the 3D printing equipment and the gas purification device provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0094] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the 3D printing equipment and the gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0095] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the gas purification device in Figure 6;
[0096] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the connection between the gas purification device and the 3D printing equipment provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0097] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a 3D printing system provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0098] Figure 10 is a flowchart of an air purification method according to some embodiments of this application;
[0099] Figure 11 is a flowchart of an air purification method according to some embodiments of this application;
[0100] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of a photocatalytic unit in some embodiments of this application;
[0101] Figure 13 is a front view of a gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application, wherein the outer casing is not shown;
[0102] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction in Figure 13;
[0103] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the gas purification device shown in Figure 14, where the arrows indicate the direction of airflow.
[0104] Figure 16 is an exploded view of the gas purification device shown in Figure 13;
[0105] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application, wherein the arrow indicates the direction of airflow.
[0106] Figure 18 is a partial exploded view of the gas purification device provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0107] Figure 19 is a partial exploded view of the gas purification device provided in the embodiment of this application.
[0108] Figure 20 is an exploded view of the structure of a gas purification device provided in another embodiment of this application.
[0109] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows:
[0110] 10. Outer shell; 101. Top cover; 102. Body; 11. Air inlet; 111. First air inlet; 112. Second air inlet; 12. Air outlet; 121. First air outlet; 122. Second air outlet; 13. Gas passage; 131. First airflow channel; 132. Second airflow channel; 14. First connecting part; 15. Clearance part; 16. Display screen; 17. Cover; 171. Front panel; 172. Rear panel; 173. Top panel; 174. Side panel; 20. Inner cylinder; 21. First locking block; 22. Second locking slot; 23. First positioning hole; 30. Purification component; 31. Photocatalyst; 32. Activated carbon filter; 33. HEPA filter; 40. Light source assembly; 41. Light source; 411. Second positioning hole; 42. Drive circuit; 43. Heat sink; 50, Ozone supply device; 501, Box body; 502, First positioning post; 503, Ozone generating unit; 60, Detection unit; 70, Base; 71, Controller; 72, First slot; 73, Mounting slot; 74, Receiving cavity; 75, Partition; 80, Oxygen supply device; 90, Ventilation device; 100, Gas purification device; 200, 3D printing equipment; 210, Molding space; 220, Printer housing; 221, Second connecting part; 300, Air guide assembly; 400, Waste gas treatment device; 510, Fastener; 520, Adhesive part; 530, Magnetic part; 540, Fastener; 600, Target space; 700, Target gas; 810, Ozone oxidation module; 820, Ozone decomposition module; 900, 3D printing system. Detailed Implementation
[0111] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.
[0112] 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 to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.
[0113] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.
[0114] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.
[0115] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.
[0116] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).
[0117] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "lateral", "up", "down", "left", "right", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.
[0118] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0119] In the field of 3D printing, the printing materials used often contain high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The concentration of VOCs released by these materials during storage and use is far higher than in conventional air purification scenarios. Conventional air purification filters harmful gases such as formaldehyde, VOCs, and PM2.5 particulate matter, whose concentrations in the space are not high and do not require efficient purification rates. Most products achieve slow purification through external gas circulation. However, in 3D printing applications, printing consumables release high concentrations of VOCs in a short period of time during natural storage and printing. For example, in photopolymer 3D printing, due to the complex composition of liquid photopolymer resin, complex VOCs will volatilize even during static storage. During the 3D printing process, the movement and stirring of the forming platform and the heating function of the resin tray in some 3D printing equipment accelerate the volatilization of VOCs, causing a rapid decline in air quality around the equipment and even the entire space. The same applies to other 3D printing processes, such as FDM 3D printing, which involves melting thermoplastic materials at high temperatures during printing. This process also releases a large amount of harmful gases in a short period, potentially endangering the health of operators. Therefore, air purification requirements for 3D printing environments not only necessitate higher purification efficiency but also require a significant reduction in the concentration of harmful gases such as VOCs within a shorter timeframe to ensure the health and safety of operators.
[0120] Based on this, this application proposes a gas purification method for 3D printing, which, in conjunction with Figure 1, includes:
[0121] Provide a target space of 600, which is associated with the printing material for 3D printing;
[0122] Photocatalyst 31 is arranged in the target space 600;
[0123] A predetermined wavelength of light is projected onto the photocatalyst 31 to excite the photocatalyst to carry out a catalytic reaction; and
[0124] Introduce and / or generate ozone of a predetermined concentration into the target space 600 for decomposition reaction.
[0125] Printing materials used for 3D printing include, but are not limited to, photosensitive resins, ABS filaments, PLA filaments, nylon, and UV-curable inks, which are consumables used in the 3D printing equipment 200. Photosensitive resins refer to resin materials that can cure under ultraviolet light or other light sources, such as epoxy resins. ABS filaments are acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymers. PLA filaments are polylactic acid. Because the above printing materials inevitably produce volatile gases during placement or printing, the "target space 600" associated with these materials may experience air pollution. The "target space 600" includes, but is not limited to, the interior and surrounding area of the 3D printing equipment 200.
[0126] The term "photocatalyst 31," also known as photocatalyst, is a general term for semiconductor materials with photocatalytic functions, represented by titanium dioxide. In the embodiments, photocatalyst 31 commonly uses N-type semiconductor materials, which have characteristics such as a low bandgap. It can generate highly oxidizing substances (such as hydroxyl radicals and oxygen) under light irradiation and can be used to decompose organic compounds, some inorganic compounds, bacteria, and viruses. Photocatalyst 31 includes, but is not limited to, semiconductor compound materials such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and tungsten oxide, and also includes modified materials obtained through processes such as doping, composite formation, and coating based on these compounds.
[0127] The light of the predetermined wavelength refers to the excitation light that can excite the photocatalyst 31 to produce catalytic activity. The wavelength of the light can be selected in a variety of ways, and can be freely selected from visible light to ultraviolet light (including UVA, UVB and UVC bands) according to the matching degree of the selected photocatalyst 31.
[0128] This embodiment utilizes a photocatalyst 31 to excite a catalytic reaction under light irradiation of a preset wavelength, decomposing organic pollutants, including VOCs, generated during the placement or printing process of the printing material. By introducing or generating ozone in the target space 600, the decomposition products of VOCs can be oxidized, thereby meeting the higher purification efficiency required in the 3D printing field. This method can significantly reduce the concentration of harmful gases such as VOCs in a very short time.
[0129] In a specific embodiment of this application, taking the titanium dioxide photocatalyst 31 as an example, the following is a simplified reaction equation for the TiO2 catalytic decomposition of VOCs:
[0130] TiO2 + hv → TiO2* + h + +e -
[0131] O2+e - →·O2-
[0132] h + +H₂O→H + +·OH
[0133] ·O2 - +H + →·HO2
[0134] ·O2 - +·O2 - →H₂O₂ + O₂
[0135] ·O2 - +·HO2→HO2 - +O2
[0136] HO2 - +H + →H2O2
[0137] H2O2+e - →·OH+OH -
[0138] H2O2+·O2 - →·OH+OH - +O2
[0139] H₂O₂ + hv → 2·OH
[0140] Here, hv represents the energy of the photon, TiO2* represents the excited state of titanium dioxide, and e - and h + They represent free electrons and holes, respectively.
[0141] Then, VOCs are oxidized under the action of electron-hole pairs:
[0142] VOCs+h + →Intermediate products
[0143] Ultimately, the intermediate products are further oxidized (e.g., by ozone) to produce carbon dioxide and water:
[0144] Intermediate product → CO2 + H2O
[0145] As can be seen from the chemical equations of the catalytic reaction described above, photocatalyst 31 is activated under light irradiation, producing active substances with strong oxidizing properties, such as OH· (hydroxyl radicals). These active substances can efficiently oxidize organic matter in waste gas. The active substances react with the organic matter (VOCs) in the waste gas, causing the C=C bond (carbon-carbon double bond) to break and forming a new C=O bond (carbon-oxygen double bond). In this process, organic matter is gradually decomposed into small molecules and eventually transformed into inorganic matter. However, during the catalytic reaction of photocatalyst 31, harmful VOCs are often not completely decomposed directly into harmless components such as water and carbon dioxide. Instead, at least part of them first break the large molecular bonds of large VOC molecules to generate new small-molecule organic intermediates. These intermediates are then further transformed into harmless substances through subsequent redox reactions. If the small-molecule intermediates generated during the purification reaction are not completely decomposed, new pollutants such as irritating odors will be produced. The addition of ozone can solve this problem. The strong oxidizing power of ozone can further transform the generated small-molecule intermediates into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. Although ozone is also one of the intermediate products in the catalytic reaction of photocatalyst 31 (a small amount of ozone is produced by UV photolysis of oxygen), its content is extremely low and insufficient to fully decompose the intermediate products into water and carbon dioxide. By introducing or generating ozone into the target space 600, the purification reaction can be further promoted to achieve a better purification effect.
[0146] In some embodiments, the target space 600 is configured to accommodate at least one 3D printing device 200; or, the target space 600 is defined by a single 3D printing device 200.
[0147] This means that the target space 600 can be used independently in 3D printing scenarios of different scales, such as small laboratories to large 3D printing farms (including a large number of 3D printing devices 200); it can also be used in conjunction with 3D printing devices 200, for example, arranged in the printing area of 3D printing devices 200; or it can be embedded as a module inside 3D printing devices 200. The target space 600 has high adaptability and integrability.
[0148] In some embodiments, the 3D printing device 200 includes any one of a DLP printing device, an LCD printing device, an FDM printing device, an SLA printing device, or an inkjet printing device (e.g., "MJP" technology).
[0149] The terms "DLP printing equipment," "LCD printing equipment," "FDM printing equipment," and "SLA printing equipment" all refer to different types of 3D printing or printing technologies. For example, DLP (Digital Light Processing) printing equipment uses digital light processing technology to project images onto photosensitive resin using a projector, curing each layer to form a 3D model. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) printing equipment uses an LCD screen as a light source, controlling the pixels on the LCD screen to cure the resin. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing equipment uses fused deposition modeling technology, melting plastic filaments through a heated nozzle and depositing them layer by layer to form a 3D model. SLA (Stereolithography Apparatus) printing equipment uses stereolithography technology, using a laser to cure photosensitive resin layer by layer to form a 3D model. These 3D printing devices 200 vary in structure depending on the molding process, but they all share a printing molding space and a consumable storage space. The various mechanisms work together to shape the printing material into a printed part. During the printing process, the volatilization of the printing material itself, coupled with the movement and heating of the printing mechanism, accelerates the volatilization of the printing material, resulting in high concentrations of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) inside and around the 3D printing equipment 200. This may cause discomfort to the operators and pollute the environment. The air purification method of this application embodiment can efficiently decompose and purify the harmful gases generated by the 3D printing equipment 200.
[0150] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst 31 includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, zirconium dioxide, tungsten trioxide, iron oxide, tin oxide, and modified titanium dioxide.
[0151] The properties of photocatalyst 31 largely determine its ability and efficiency in purifying VOCs after excitation. The aforementioned photocatalyst 31 exhibits high catalytic efficiency, significantly enhancing the purification reaction's capacity and efficiency. Specifically, the modified titanium dioxide, through doping, coating, or composite materials, improves the photocatalytic material's light absorption capacity and catalytic activity, thereby further enhancing the purification reaction's capacity and efficiency.
[0152] In some embodiments, the modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide.
[0153] The modified titanium dioxide photocatalyst 31 described above has higher catalytic efficiency. Due to its advantages such as easier photoexcitation and less ion recombination, the modified photocatalyst 31 can generate more active species and extend their lifespan during the catalytic reaction, thus exhibiting better purification capacity and efficiency. As an example:
[0154] Non-metallic doped titanium dioxide can include carbon-doped titanium dioxide, nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide, and fluorine-doped titanium dioxide, etc. These can improve the conductivity of titanium dioxide, thereby further improving the photocatalytic efficiency.
[0155] Metal-doped titanium dioxide can include copper-doped titanium dioxide, iron-doped titanium dioxide, and manganese-doped titanium dioxide, etc. These can improve the light absorption of titanium dioxide, thereby further improving the photocatalytic efficiency.
[0156] Examples of titanium dioxide deposited with precious metals include silver-deposited titanium dioxide, platinum-deposited titanium dioxide, and gold-deposited titanium dioxide. These can alter the crystal structure of titanium dioxide, thereby further improving photocatalytic efficiency.
[0157] Heterogeneous titanium dioxide structures include composites of titanium dioxide and bismuth oxide. These materials can suppress electron-hole recombination, thereby further improving photocatalytic efficiency.
[0158] In some embodiments, the light of the predetermined wavelength includes visible light and / or ultraviolet light. The wavelength of the ultraviolet light can be from 180 nm to 410 nm. As examples, typical but not limiting values for the wavelength of ultraviolet light include 180 nm, 185 nm, 254 nm, 365 nm, 385 nm, 405 nm, and 410 nm. Different wavelengths can also be mixed to achieve a better purification effect.
[0159] In some embodiments, the wavelength of the ultraviolet light is 190 nm to 280 nm, for example, 190 nm to 240 nm. Ultraviolet light in this wavelength range can be used to excite photocatalyst materials and can also be used to decompose oxygen into ozone.
[0160] Ultraviolet (UV) light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy, resulting in higher catalytic activity in photocatalyst materials excited by UV light, enabling them to decompose harmful substances more quickly. Generally, the shorter the wavelength of UV light, the higher its energy, and the easier it is to excite the photocatalyst to generate purifying ions. For example, typical but not limited values for UV light include 190nm, 210nm, 220nm, 230nm, 240nm, 254nm, 260nm, 270nm, and 280nm.
[0161] In some embodiments, introducing and / or generating ozone of a predetermined concentration into a target space 600 includes: using light of a predetermined wavelength to decompose oxygen in the target space 600 to obtain ozone.
[0162] When light of a predetermined wavelength is ultraviolet radiation with a wavelength between 240 nm and 310 nm, and this wavelength range of ultraviolet light irradiates oxygen molecules (O2) in the atmosphere, these molecules absorb enough energy to decompose into two oxygen atoms (O). This process is called photolysis or photochemical decomposition. The oxygen atoms produced in this process are very reactive, and they quickly react with other oxygen molecules to form ozone molecules (O3).
[0163] In some embodiments, introducing and / or generating ozone of a predetermined concentration into a target space 600 includes: using an electric current to decompose oxygen in the target space 600 to obtain ozone.
[0164] Methods for generating ozone by decomposing oxygen in target space 600 using an electric current can include corona discharge and electrochemical methods. Corona discharge involves inducing a corona discharge in a gas under high voltage conditions, thereby forming plasma. This plasma then acts on oxygen molecules, causing them to decompose and recombine into ozone. Electrochemical methods use a DC power supply to electrolyze an electrolyte solution containing oxygen, directly generating ozone through electrode reactions.
[0165] Using electric current to decompose oxygen to generate ozone is a highly efficient method for converting oxygen into ozone, not only accelerating the ozone formation rate but also significantly increasing the yield. In particular, it provides more controllable production conditions, allowing operators to precisely adjust the amount of ozone generated according to actual needs, thus improving production flexibility and efficiency.
[0166] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes introducing oxygen of a predetermined concentration into the target space 600 to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space 600.
[0167] The photocatalyst 31 does not consume its own substances during the purification process but acts as a catalyst; however, the O2 in the reaction space actually participates in the reaction. Therefore, in order to meet the higher purification rate requirements of VOCs in 3D printing scenarios, a predetermined concentration of oxygen can be input into the target space 600 to create an oxygen-rich purification environment, thereby improving the decomposition efficiency.
[0168] In some embodiments, the oxygen concentration in the target space 600 is made to be 25% to 50% by introducing a predetermined concentration of oxygen into the target space. For example, in a 0.5m area centered on photocatalysis... 3 or 1.0m 3 or 2.0m 3 or 3.0m 3or 5.0m 3 In the space, the average oxygen concentration is 25%–50%, for example 28%–45%, or for example 35%–40%. A predetermined concentration of oxygen, such as 25%–100%, 30%–90%, or for example 40%–80%, can also be supplied via an oxygen supply device. The oxygen supply device can supply oxygen at a predetermined flow rate, the flow rate being set with the size of the target space in mind.
[0169] In some embodiments, the concentrations of oxygen and ozone introduced into the target space are configured such that at least a portion of the target space (e.g., the target space is 100m²) is affected. 3 A space of 2m was detected at one point. 3 The concentrations of the target gas and ozone in the gas concentration (in the sample) are both 0–0.060 mg / m³. 3 For example, 0.005~0.010mg / m³ 3 For example, 0.006~0.050mg / m³ 3 .
[0170] When the printing material is a photosensitive resin, the crosslinking reaction of the printing material is affected by oxygen. In this case, it is necessary to control the oxygen concentration in the target space defined by a single printing device, for example, 20% to 50%, or 30% to 40%.
[0171] As an example, the oxygen concentration in the target space 600 can be a typical but not limited value such as 30%, 32%, 34%, 36%, 38%, 40%, 42%, 44%, 46%, 48%, or 50%. Appropriately increasing the oxygen concentration in the target space 600 helps to replenish the oxygen required for the decomposition reaction of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), thereby improving purification efficiency and better meeting the need for rapid purification during the 3D printing process.
[0172] However, in some scenarios, excessively high oxygen concentrations can negatively impact the quality of the printed product due to the oxygen inhibition effect of the photocurable resin. Therefore, by precisely controlling the oxygen concentration within the target space 600 to between 30% and 50%, the quality of the 3D printing can be maintained while achieving higher purification efficiency.
[0173] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: using a ventilation device 90 to accelerate the flow of gas in the target space 600.
[0174] The ventilation device 90 includes, but is not limited to, fans, blowers, and exhaust systems. The fans can be axial fans, centrifugal fans, or DC brushless fans. The function of the ventilation device 90 is to promote gas circulation within the reaction space, allowing gases containing high concentrations of VOCs to flow evenly and sufficiently across the surface of the photocatalyst 31, thereby further improving the purification rate of the reaction area.
[0175] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: detecting the concentration of target gas 700 in target space 600, as shown in FIG4; when the detected concentration of target gas 700 is greater than a first predetermined concentration, projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto photocatalyst 31.
[0176] Specifically, the detection can be achieved using a VOCs sensor, which can be based on semiconductor principles or electrochemical principles. The sensor reading is compared with a first predetermined concentration (a preset judgment threshold). If the concentration exceeds the preset threshold, light of a predetermined wavelength is turned on to irradiate the photocatalytic material.
[0177] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: detecting the concentration of target gas 700 in target space 600; when the detected concentration of target gas 700 is within a predetermined range, projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto photocatalyst 31 and introducing oxygen and / or ozone into target space 600.
[0178] Specifically, when the sensor reading is within a predetermined range, light of a predetermined wavelength is turned on to irradiate the photocatalytic material. Simultaneously, oxygen and / or ozone are introduced into the target space 600. The highly oxidizing ozone can promote the oxidative decomposition of intermediate small molecule byproducts generated in the initial photocatalytic reaction, ultimately resulting in the complete reaction to produce harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. The introduction of oxygen maintains an oxygen-rich environment within the target space 600 to enhance the purification reaction efficiency and purification effect.
[0179] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: detecting the concentration of target gas 700 in target space 600; when the detected concentration of target gas 700 is less than a second predetermined concentration, stopping the projection of light of a predetermined wavelength and stopping the introduction and / or generation of ozone of a predetermined concentration.
[0180] Specifically, based on the sensor reading, if the concentration is less than the preset threshold, the light of the preset wavelength is turned off to irradiate the photocatalytic material, and the introduction of ozone is stopped.
[0181] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes collecting or removing the purified gas. Specifically, the purified products can be collected or removed using an exhaust gas treatment device.
[0182] In some embodiments, the gas purification method further includes: arranging one or more of activated carbon filter element 32, HEPA filter element 33, particulate filter element, fiber filter element and electrostatic filter element in the target space.
[0183] Specifically, activated carbon filter element 32, HEPA filter element 33, particulate filter element, fiber filter element, and electrostatic filter element can be used in conjunction with photocatalyst 31 to simultaneously achieve both chemical and physical filtration effects in the gas purification device. Different filter elements can be selectively combined according to different types of printing consumables to achieve targeted filtration effects.
[0184] This application embodiment also provides a gas purification device 100. Please refer to Figures 1 and 4. The gas purification device 100 includes a photocatalyst unit, which includes a photocatalyst 31, a light source assembly 40, and an ozone supply device 50. The photocatalyst 31 is used to generate oxidizing ions under light conditions to decompose pollutants. The light source assembly 40 is configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst 31 to stimulate the reactivity of the photocatalyst 31 and carry out a catalytic reaction. The ozone supply device 50 is configured to introduce ozone into the target space 600 or generate ozone in the target space 600.
[0185] The gas purification device 100 of this application embodiment is based on the principle of photocatalytic oxidation. It utilizes the photocatalyst 31 to chemically oxidize harmful substances such as VOCs inside and around the 3D printing equipment 200, thereby decomposing and oxidizing them to obtain harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. At the same time, in order to meet the higher purification rate requirements of VOCs harmful gases in 3D printing scenarios, this solution proposes to actively inject ozone into the target space 600 to increase the oxidation of VOCs gas decomposition products, so as to meet the higher purification effect required in the 3D printing field and significantly reduce the concentration of harmful gases such as VOCs.
[0186] The gas purification device 100 includes one or more photocatalyst units, a light source assembly 40, and an ozone supply device 50. This gas purification device 100, based on the principle of photocatalysis, solves the air pollution problem generated during 3D printing and improves the safety of using the 3D printing equipment 200.
[0187] In the example, the photocatalyst 31 exists in the form of an attached layer. The photocatalyst 31 has a layered structure, and its shape and size can be varied, such as rectangular, circular, or irregular polygonal. The component area can be varied according to the illumination requirements and structural design. In other embodiments, the photocatalyst 31 can also exist in other forms, such as loose granular or clustered structures.
[0188] In some embodiments, referring to FIG12, the photocatalytic unit further includes one or more of activated carbon filter 32, HEPA filter 33, particulate filter, fiber filter and electrostatic filter.
[0189] For example, the activated carbon filter 32, HEPA filter 33, particulate filter, fiber filter and electrostatic filter are layered structures and can be used in conjunction with the photocatalyst 31. For example, the layered photocatalyst 31, activated carbon filter 32 and HEPA filter 33 are stacked sequentially along the airflow direction and then used in conjunction.
[0190] During the airflow purification process, both chemical and physical filtration effects of the gas purification device can be achieved simultaneously. Different filter materials can be selectively combined according to the type of printing consumables to achieve targeted filtration effects. For example, traditional filter materials such as activated carbon filter 32 can filter or adsorb large-molecule dust pollutants, while the remaining small-molecule VOCs can be decomposed by the photochemical reaction generated by photocatalyst 31, maximizing the air purification effect.
[0191] In some embodiments, the photocatalyst unit further includes a support for carrying the photocatalyst 31, the photocatalyst 31 being disposed on the support, wherein the support may also be referred to as a catalyst substrate. The photocatalyst 31 is typically formed by coating or attaching to a substrate or support to form a coating or thin film with catalytic activity. For example, the support may be glass, ceramic, metal, plastic, etc.
[0192] In some optional embodiments, the support has a porous structure. Supports include, but are not limited to, honeycomb aluminum filter mesh, porous alumina ceramics, and porous polymer foam. The photocatalyst 31 can be attached to these supports in a small molecule form. The photocatalyst 31, through its mesh-like or porous structure, increases the specific surface area exposed to light, thereby further increasing the efficiency of the purification reaction.
[0193] In some embodiments, the gas purification device includes a housing 10, which has a gas passage 13 communicating with the target space 600. The housing 10 has an air inlet 11 for allowing airflow to enter the gas passage 13 and an air outlet 12 for allowing airflow to exit the gas passage 13. The photocatalyst 31 is disposed in the gas passage 13. The housing 10 not only supports the photocatalyst 31 but also protects the photocatalyst 31, thus stabilizing the working state of the photocatalyst 31.
[0194] Understandably, as shown in Figure 2, the photocatalyst 31 is located on the airflow path. After the external airflow enters the gas passage 13 from the air inlet 11, it flows through the photocatalyst 31 and then flows out of the gas passage 13 through the air outlet 12.
[0195] The periphery of the photocatalyst unit can be connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13 by means of adhesion, snap-fit connection, magnetic adsorption, etc. Furthermore, the shape of the photocatalyst unit can be adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the gas passage 13, increasing the contact area between the periphery of the photocatalyst unit and the inner wall of the gas passage 13. This not only ensures the stability of the photocatalyst unit connection but also increases the contact area between the photocatalyst 31 and the gas flow, thereby improving purification efficiency. In some examples, the photocatalyst unit is directly supported by the 3D printing equipment, for example, placed on a part of the 3D printing equipment.
[0196] Specifically, there can be one or more photocatalyst units. When multiple photocatalyst units are set, they are arranged sequentially and at intervals along the flow direction of the airflow. As the airflow passes through the gas passage 13, the multiple photocatalyst units purify the airflow sequentially along the flow direction. Alternatively, they can be arranged side by side in the gas passage 13, such as filling the cross-section of the gas passage 13 as much as possible, so that the introduced airflow passes through the photocatalyst 31 simultaneously, thereby improving the purification effect.
[0197] Alternatively, the light source assembly 40 can be disposed outside the gas passage 13 and project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst 31 through the air inlet 11 or the air outlet 12. Of course, in other possible embodiments, the light source assembly 40 can also be disposed inside the gas passage 13, with the housing 10 serving to support and protect the light source assembly 40.
[0198] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2, the light source assembly 40 is connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13, and the irradiation surface of the light source assembly 40 faces the photocatalyst 31 so that the photocatalyst 31 can receive the light emitted by the light source assembly 40. Specifically, the light source assembly 40 can be connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13 by means of adhesive bonding, snap-fit connection, magnetic adsorption, etc.
[0199] In some embodiments, the distance between the light source assembly 40 and the photocatalyst 31 is 3mm-20mm, which allows light of a preset wavelength to effectively illuminate the photocatalyst 31. Those skilled in the art will understand that an excessively large distance results in some energy being wasted from the light radiated by the light source assembly 40, hindering energy utilization, while an excessively small distance may prevent the light emitted by the light source assembly 40 from reaching the entire photocatalyst 31 (or the catalyst on it) with the predetermined energy.
[0200] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the light source assembly 40 includes a light source 41 and a driving circuit 42 for driving the light source 41. The light source 41 includes, but is not limited to, mercury lamps, LEDs, etc. Mercury lamps are typically driven by high voltage and have advantages such as high energy and large irradiation area. LEDs are driven by specialized boost / buck circuits, and the type and number of LED beads can be freely designed according to requirements. They have a long lifespan and can be designed into different lamp panel shapes according to the structure. In addition, the wavelength selection of the light source 41 is also diverse. Depending on the degree of matching with the selected photocatalyst material, the wavelength of the light source 41 can be freely selected from visible light and ultraviolet light (full-band UVA to UVC).
[0201] In some embodiments, the light source 41 is an ultraviolet light source 41. Compared with visible light, ultraviolet light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy. Photocatalyst materials excited by ultraviolet light have higher catalytic activity and can decompose harmful substances more quickly. Generally, the shorter the wavelength of UV light, the higher the energy, and the easier it is to excite the photocatalyst material to generate purifying ions.
[0202] The ozone supply device 50 is used to introduce ozone into the target space 600 or generate ozone in the target space 600. Understandably, the ozone supply device 50 can be installed within the gas passage 13, specifically, it can be connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13, in which case the ozone supply device 50 generates ozone within the gas passage 13; alternatively, the ozone supply device 50 can be installed outside the gas passage 13, and the ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 can be transported to the gas passage 13 through a delivery pipe.
[0203] In a specific embodiment of this application, taking a titanium dioxide photocatalyst 31 as an example, the photocatalyst 31 is activated under light irradiation, generating active substances with strong oxidizing properties, such as OH· (hydroxyl radicals). These active substances can efficiently oxidize organic matter in waste gas. The active substances react with the organic matter (VOCs) in the waste gas, causing the C=C bond (carbon-carbon double bond) to break and forming a new C=O bond (carbon-oxygen double bond). In this process, organic matter is gradually decomposed into small molecules and can be oxidized, for example, by ozone to ultimately transform into inorganic substances. In the photocatalytic reaction process, harmful VOCs are often not completely decomposed directly into harmless components such as water and carbon dioxide. Instead, at least part of them first have their large molecular bonds broken to generate new small-molecule organic intermediates. These intermediates are then further fully decomposed into harmless substances through subsequent redox reactions. If the small-molecule intermediates generated during the purification reaction are not completely decomposed, new pollutants such as irritating odors will be produced. The addition of ozone can solve this problem. Ozone's strong oxidizing power can further oxidize the generated small-molecule intermediates into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. Although ozone is also one of the intermediates in photocatalytic reactions (UV photolysis of oxygen produces a small amount of ozone), its content is low and insufficient to fully oxidize the intermediates into water and carbon dioxide. Artificially injecting ozone can further promote the purification reaction, achieving a better purification effect. The ozone supply device 50 can be a discharge-based ozone supply device 50, generating ozone through the electrolysis of air or oxygen. In some embodiments, an oxygen supply device can also be used to supply oxygen, increasing the oxygen content in the target space, thereby increasing the ozone content obtained through oxygen under photocatalysis, and thus promoting the oxidation reaction.
[0204] The photocatalyst 31 in this embodiment can rapidly activate the reaction under light irradiation, decomposing organic pollutants and VOCs. The reaction speed is faster than traditional physical adsorption methods, and it also has a highly efficient decomposition capability for bacteria and viruses. The photocatalyst 31 can continuously function under light irradiation and is not consumed during the reaction, thus improving the durability of air purification and reducing the frequency of equipment maintenance and replacement, thereby lowering long-term costs. Furthermore, the end products generated by the photocatalytic reaction are usually harmless, such as water, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen, avoiding secondary pollution problems. The photocatalyst 31 itself is non-toxic and safe for human health and the environment. Therefore, based on the above advantages, the method for efficiently decomposing and purifying harmful gases generated by 3D printing consumables using photocatalysis proposed in this embodiment can be applied to 3D printing scenarios of different scales, from small laboratories to large 3D printing farms, offering high flexibility. Simultaneously, the gas purification device 100 in this embodiment can be used in conjunction with existing 3D printing equipment 200 and ventilation systems, exhibiting high adaptability and integration.
[0205] In some embodiments, referring to FIG3, the gas purification device 100 further includes an oxygen supply device 80 for inputting oxygen of a predetermined concentration into the target space 600. Understandably, the oxygen supply device 80 can be disposed within the gas passage 13, specifically, it can be connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13, in which case the oxygen supply device 80 directly injects ozone into the gas passage 13; alternatively, the oxygen supply device 80 can be disposed outside the gas passage 13, and the oxygen generated by the oxygen supply device 80 can be transported to the gas passage 13 through a delivery pipe.
[0206] As can be seen from the principle of photocatalytic purification, photocatalyst materials (including but not limited to TiO2 and other modified materials) do not consume their own substances during the purification process but act as catalysts. However, O2 and H2O in the reaction space actually participate in the reaction. Therefore, in order to meet the higher purification rate requirements of VOCs in 3D printing scenarios, this application proposes to actively inject oxygen through an oxygen supply device 80 to create an oxygen-rich purification environment, thereby improving the efficiency of decomposition and purification.
[0207] In photocatalytic reactions, oxygen directly participates in the catalytic process. Therefore, maintaining the oxygen concentration within the reaction zone can better promote the purification reaction. By controlling the flow rate or concentration of generated oxygen, an oxygen-rich environment can be maintained within the purification reaction zone to improve purification efficiency and effectiveness. Oxygen supply devices 80 include, but are not limited to, chemical oxygen generators, water electrolysis oxygen generators, and adsorption separation oxygen generators. As an example, adsorption separation oxygen generators include, but are not limited to, gas pumps with molecular sieve structures.
[0208] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 and 3, the gas purification device 100 for 3D printing also includes a ventilation device 90, which is used to accelerate the flow of gas in the target space 600 so that the gas containing high concentrations of VOC harmful components can flow evenly and sufficiently over the surface of the photocatalyst 31.
[0209] Specifically, the ventilation device 90 can be installed within the gas passage 13. The ventilation device 90 guides the airflow within the gas passage 13 from the air inlet 11 towards the photocatalyst 31. Specifically, the ventilation device 90 guides the airflow within the gas passage 13 along the air inlet 11 towards the photocatalyst 31, that is, towards the air outlet 12. The ventilation device 90 prevents the airflow from spreading, thereby ensuring that the airflow, including organic pollutants, passes through the photocatalyst 31 as much as possible and is catalytically decomposed, thus improving the purification efficiency of the gas purification device 100 and increasing the output efficiency of the airflow.
[0210] Understandably, the ventilation device 90 can be located between the photocatalyst 31 and the air inlet 11, or between the photocatalyst 31 and the air outlet 12, or at the location of the air inlet 11 or the air outlet 12. The ventilation device 90 can be connected to the inner wall of the gas passage 13 by means of adhesive bonding, snap-fit connection, magnetic adsorption, etc., or a mounting bracket can be set in the gas passage 13 and the ventilation device 90 can be installed on the mounting bracket.
[0211] In the embodiments of this application, the ventilation device 90 includes, but is not limited to, a fan assembly, a blower, and an exhaust system. The fan assembly can be an axial fan, a centrifugal fan, or a DC brushless fan, and may include one or more fans. The function of the ventilation device 90 is to promote gas circulation within the reaction space, allowing gases containing high concentrations of VOC harmful components to flow evenly and sufficiently across the surface of the photocatalyst 31, thereby further improving the purification rate of the reaction area. Positioning the fan assembly at the rear end of the photocatalyst 31 and one or more of the activated carbon filter 32, HEPA filter 33, particulate filter, fiber filter, and electrostatic filter (i.e., preferably at the air outlet 12) allows the airflow to be filtered before passing through the fan assembly, reducing dust accumulation on the fan assembly and improving its heat dissipation efficiency and lifespan.
[0212] In some embodiments, when the ventilation device 90 is disposed close to the air outlet 12, a dustproof screen is provided at the air outlet 12 to prevent dust from entering from the air outlet 12 and adhering to the ventilation device 90 when it is not in operation. The ventilation device 90 can be used to define the air intake passage and the air exhaust passage.
[0213] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the gas purification device 100 further includes a detection unit 60 and a controller 71, wherein: the detection unit 60 is used to detect the concentration of target gas 700 in the target space 600; the controller 71 is communicatively connected to the light source assembly 40, the ozone supply device 50 and the detection unit 60 respectively; the controller 71 is used to control the light source assembly 40 and the ozone supply device 50 according to the concentration of target gas 700 in the target space 600. Specifically, the controller 71 can control the light intensity of the light source assembly 40 and the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 according to the concentration of target gas 700 in the target space 600, so as to purify the air.
[0214] In some embodiments, the controller 71 is communicatively connected to the light source assembly 40, the ozone supply device 50, the oxygen supply device 80, and the detection unit 60, respectively. The controller 71 is used to control the light source assembly 40, the ozone supply device 50, and the oxygen supply device 80 according to the pollutant content. Specifically, the controller 71 can control the light intensity of the light source assembly 40, the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50, and the amount of oxygen generated by the oxygen supply device 80 according to the pollutant content, so as to purify the air.
[0215] In some embodiments, the controller 71 is communicatively connected to the light source assembly 40, the ozone supply device 50, the oxygen supply device 80, the ventilation device 90, and the detection unit 60, respectively. The controller 71 is used to control the light source assembly 40, the ozone supply device 50, the oxygen supply device 80, and the ventilation device 90 according to the concentration of the target gas 700 in the target space 600. Specifically, the controller 71 can control the light intensity of the light source assembly 40, the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50, the amount of oxygen generated by the oxygen supply device 80, and the output power of the ventilation device 90 according to the concentration of the target gas 700 in the target space 600, so as to purify the air.
[0216] To monitor the VOC content and purification effect in the environment, the detection unit 60 and the controller 71 play a role in feedback closed-loop control. The detection unit 60 includes, but is not limited to, semiconductor VOCs sensors, electrochemical VOCs sensors, etc. The detection unit 60 can display and record the VOCs composition and content in the environment in real time, and the controller 71 can perform preset actions based on the data fed back by the detection unit 60, such as starting the entire air purification process.
[0217] The chemical reaction formula of photocatalytic oxidation reveals that, to promote a complete reaction, ozone is injected into the purification reaction area to fully decompose VOCs into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. The VOC content in the reaction environment is monitored in real time using a pollutant concentration sensor. The controller 71 automatically adjusts the reaction conditions based on the monitoring results, such as the intensity of the light source 41 and the amount of ozone injected.
[0218] The gas purification device 100, through the detection unit 60 and the controller 71, realizes the automated operation of the air purification process, saving operators' time and maintenance costs.
[0219] In some embodiments, the detection unit 60 includes an ozone sensor for detecting ozone content. The ozone sensor is used to detect the ozone concentration in the target space 600. The ozone sensor is connected to a controller 71, which adjusts the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 according to the ozone concentration.
[0220] Since ozone is introduced into the target space 600 via the ozone supply device 50, and ozone has clearly defined environmental standards for its concentration, the ozone sensor can provide real-time feedback on changes in the ozone concentration in the environment. This allows the controller 71 to control the on / off state of the ozone supply device 50 or the amount of ozone injected. This embodiment of the application uses an ozone sensor to feedback and control the ozone concentration in the environment within a safe range.
[0221] In some embodiments, the controller 71 includes a processor, a human-machine interface device, and a display screen 16. The interface device can be a physical button or integrated with the display screen 16 as a touch screen to enable human-machine interaction. This allows the operator to input control information to the controller 71 via the physical button or the touch screen, and to observe air purification information via the display screen 16 or the touch screen.
[0222] This application provides a 3D printing system. Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. The 3D printing system includes a three-dimensional printing device 200 and a gas purification device 100. The gas purification device 100 is arranged in a target space 600 associated with the printing material of the three-dimensional printing device 200. The gas purification device 100 can purify the target gas 700 in the target space 600.
[0223] In some embodiments, the structure of the 3D printing system is shown in Figures 5 and 6. As can be understood, as shown in Figure 6, the 3D printing device 200 has a closed target space 600, meaning the target space 600 is located inside the 3D printing device 200. Specifically, the 3D printing device 200 includes a forming chamber for arranging printing materials and a printing mechanism. The target space 600 is the forming space 210 within the forming chamber where printing is completed. The printing operation of the 3D printing device 200 is completed within the forming space 210. During the printing process, the volatilization of the printing material itself, coupled with the movement and heating of the printing mechanism, accelerates the volatilization of the printing material, resulting in a working gas containing a high concentration of VOC organic pollutants within the forming space 210. It can be understood that when the target space 600 is located inside the 3D printing device 200, the target gas 700 in this embodiment is the working gas within the forming space 210. Specifically, the gas purification device 100 is installed in the bottom housing of the printer housing 220. The gas passage 13 extends laterally along the printer housing 220. The air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 are respectively located on both sides of the printer housing 220. The printer housing 220 is provided with an openable door (not shown in the figure) to facilitate the maintenance and replacement of the photocatalyst 31, the light source assembly 40 and the ventilation device 90 inside the gas passage 13.
[0224] In some embodiments, referring to FIG2, the gas purification device 100 is disposed inside the printer housing 220, and the housing 10 is provided with a clearance portion 15, which can be used to clear other components (such as curing light sources) disposed inside the printer housing 220.
[0225] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6, the gas purification device 100 is disposed within the forming space 210, and the gas passage 13 is connected to the forming space 210. Therefore, the working gas generated in the forming space 210 can directly enter the gas passage 13 for purification. Specifically, as shown in FIG7, since the working gas formed in the forming space 210 gradually diffuses upward, the air inlet 11 of the gas purification device 100 can be set downward, and the air outlet 12 of the gas purification device 100 can be set upward. Therefore, a sufficient amount of working gas can enter the gas passage 13 along the air inlet 11, further improving the purification efficiency.
[0226] In some embodiments, the 3D printing device 200 further includes a printer housing 220, and the outer shell 10 and the printer housing 220 are detachably connected, so that the gas purification device 100 and the 3D printing device 200 are designed separately, and the gas purification device 100 can be removed from the 3D printing device 200 as a whole.
[0227] Specifically, the gas purification device 100 is detachably connected to the inner wall of the forming space 210, thus facilitating the replacement of the gas purification device 100 according to different printing materials. Referring to Figure 8, the outer casing 10 is provided with a first connecting part 14, and the forming space 210 of the printer casing 220 is provided with a second connecting part 221; the first connecting part 14 can be a snap fastener 510, an adhesive part 520, or a magnetic attractant 530, so as to be snapped to the second connecting part 221 on the inner wall of the forming space 210 by the snap fastener 510, bonded to the second connecting part 221 on the inner wall of the forming space 210 by the adhesive part 520, or attracted to the second connecting part 221 on the inner wall of the forming space 210 by the magnetic attractant 530. Specifically, the snap fastener 510 can be a hook, and the second connecting part 221 is a hanger or hanging slot (not shown in the figure) provided on the printer housing 220 to realize the snap connection between the first connecting part 14 and the second connecting part 221; the adhesive 520 can be an adhesive (such as double-sided tape), and the flat surface (not shown in the figure) on the printer housing 220 is configured as the second connecting part 221 to realize the adhesion between the first connecting part 14 and the second connecting part 221; the magnetic attractant 530 can be a magnet, and the second connecting part 221 is a second magnetic element (not shown in the figure) embedded in the printer housing 220 to realize the adsorption connection between the first connecting part 14 and the second connecting part 221. In other possible implementations, the first connecting part 14 is a connecting plate disposed on the outer casing 10, and the connecting plate has a through hole. The gas purification device 100 is detachably connected to the inner wall of the molding space 210 by a fastener 540. Specifically, the fastener 540 can be a bolt. The second connecting part 221 is a screw hole (not shown in the figure) opened on the printer housing 220 to realize the bolt connection between the first connecting part 14 and the second connecting part 221.
[0228] In some embodiments, referring to FIG6, the second connecting portion 221 is a bracket disposed on the printer housing 220, and the bottom of the housing 10 is configured as the first connecting portion 14. When the bottom of the housing 10 is embedded in the bracket, the first connecting portion 14 and the second connecting portion 221 are engaged. In other embodiments, the bottom of the housing 10 is placed on the bracket.
[0229] When the air inlet 11 and air outlet 12 are located at the upper and lower ends of the outer casing 10, the bottom of the bracket has a hollow structure, and the hollow structure is smaller than the bottom size of the outer casing 10. This prevents the bottom of the bracket from obstructing the air inlet 11 or air outlet 12, thereby preventing one end of the gas passage 13 from being closed by the bracket. Specifically, the bracket can be made of plastic or metal, etc.
[0230] In some embodiments, referring to FIG7, when the gas purification device 100 is a separately packaged module, the housing 10 includes a removable top cover 101 to facilitate maintenance and replacement of the photocatalyst 31, the light source assembly 40 and the ventilation device 90 from both ends of the housing 10.
[0231] In some embodiments, the gas purification device 100 can be installed in a discrete, unit-distributed manner, that is, the gas purification device 100 is integrated into the printer housing 220. Specifically, the 3D printing equipment 200 also includes a printer housing 220, which is an integral structure with the outer shell 10, as shown in Figures 2 and 5. In this case, the outer shell 10 is embedded inside the printer housing 220, and the printer housing 220 provides overall protection for the gas purification device 100. At the same time, it allows for a larger gas passage 13 and photocatalyst 31, resulting in higher purification efficiency.
[0232] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 13 to 16, this application provides a gas purification device 100, including a housing 10, an inner cylinder 20, and a purification component 30. The housing 10 is provided with a gas passage 13, which communicates with the target space 600 where the 3D printing equipment 200 is located. During the use of the 3D printing equipment 200, the printing material itself or its melting, deposition, curing, and cross-linking reactions during printing may release irritating gases, causing the air in the target space 600 where the 3D printing equipment 200 is located to contain harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The gas purification device 100 provided in this application can purify the aforementioned harmful substances such as VOCs, making them meet emission standards.
[0233] 3D printing equipment includes various types such as stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), liquid crystal display (LCD), fused deposition modeling (FDM), polymer jetting (PolyJet), multi-nozzle fusion printing (MJP), multi-jet fusion molding (MJF), and selective laser sintering (SLS). Printing materials include plastics, resins, granules, nylon, fibers, and metals.
[0234] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the outer shell 10 is provided with a gas passage 13, and the inner cylinder 20 is disposed in the gas passage 13. The inner cylinder 20 divides the gas passage 13 into a first airflow channel 131 and a second airflow channel 132. The outer sides of the outer shell 10 and the inner cylinder 20 define the first airflow channel 131, and the inner cylinder 20 defines the second airflow channel 132. The purification component 30 is disposed in the gas passage 13. The purification component 30 includes a light source component 40, a photocatalyst 31, and an ozone supply device 50. The photocatalyst 31 is loaded with a photocatalyst (such as titanium dioxide or tungsten oxide). Both the light source component 40 and the photocatalyst 31 are disposed in the first airflow channel 131. The light source component 40 is configured to emit light of a preset wavelength (such as ultraviolet light) to the photocatalyst 31. When the light of the preset wavelength irradiates the photocatalyst loaded on the photocatalyst 31, the photocatalyst can generate highly oxidizing substances under light irradiation, such as hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and oxygen negative ions (·O2-), which can be used to decompose organic compounds (such as volatile organic compounds, VOCs) and some inorganic compounds. It can filter and purify harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds in the air, thereby improving the purification effect of the gas purification device 100. The ozone supply device 50 is disposed in the second airflow channel 132. The ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 flows from the second airflow channel 132 to the first airflow channel 131. The ozone supply device 50 can be an ozone generator based on the principle of oxygen electrolysis, which can generate ozone levels of 5 mg / h to 500 mg / h, such as 20 mg / h, 50 mg / h, 80 mg / h, 120 mg / h, 200 mg / h, 300 mg / h, 350 mg / h, 400 mg / h, 450 mg / h, etc.
[0235] As can be understood, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the air entering the target space 600 where the 3D printing equipment 200 is located enters the gas passage 13. Part of the air flows into the first airflow passage 131, where organic compounds (such as volatile organic compounds, VOCs) and some inorganic compounds are decomposed by strong oxidizing substances, thus filtering and purifying harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds. Another part of the air flows into the second airflow passage 132, where ozone is generated under the electrolysis of oxygen by the ozone supply device 50. This ozone then enters the first airflow passage 131 from the second airflow passage 132 with the airflow. Ozone enhances the reaction efficiency of the photocatalyst, thereby strengthening the decomposition of harmful substances and further improving the purification effect of the gas purification device 100. The purified air is then discharged into the target space 600 where the 3D printing equipment 200 is located, thus protecting the health of the workers in the target space 600. Since the intake airflow between the first airflow channel 131 and the second airflow channel 132 does not affect each other, air can pass smoothly through the first airflow channel 131 and the second airflow channel 132, thereby improving the intake efficiency. The gas purification device 100 can quickly purify the air in the target space 600.
[0236] It should be noted that photocatalysts, also known as photocatalytic agents, are a general term for semiconductor materials with photocatalytic functions, represented by nano-sized titanium dioxide. Types of photocatalysts can include TiO2 (titanium dioxide), ZrO2 (zirconia), ZnO (zinc oxide), WO3 (tungsten trioxide), Fe2O3 (iron oxide), SnO2 (tin oxide), SiO2 (silicon dioxide), etc. The preset wavelength of light is between 10nm and 780nm, which can be ultraviolet light (UV light) or visible light.
[0237] Further, as shown in Figures 14 and 16, the photocatalyst 31 includes a photocatalyst substrate and a photocatalyst attached to the photocatalyst substrate. The photocatalyst substrate can be a porous foam sheet, including but not limited to nickel foam mesh, porous ceramic mesh, polyurethane mesh, etc. The photocatalyst is attached to the internal pores of the porous foam sheet. The photocatalyst includes but is not limited to semiconductor materials such as titanium dioxide and tungsten oxide. The photocatalyst attachment process includes but is not limited to spraying, electroplating, etc.
[0238] In some preferred embodiments of this application, the photocatalyst loaded in the photocatalyst 31 is titanium dioxide, and the light emitted by the light source assembly 40 is UV light of a preset wavelength. The hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions generated by the reaction of UV light with the titanium dioxide in the photocatalyst 31 react chemically with VOCs molecules volatilized from printing consumables (such as photosensitive resin, ABS, nylon, plastic particles, etc.) to transform them into harmless water and carbon dioxide molecules, resulting in higher purification efficiency and better air purification effect. Furthermore, titanium dioxide does not undergo photocorrosion under ultraviolet light irradiation and has good acid and alkali resistance and stable chemical properties, enabling it to maintain long-term catalytic activity during use.
[0239] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the gas purification device 100 includes a first air inlet 111 and a first air outlet 121. The first air inlet 111 is connected to a first airflow channel 131, and the first air outlet 121 is connected to the first airflow channel 131. Air can enter the first airflow channel 131 from the first air inlet 111. Organic compounds (such as volatile organic compounds, VOCs) and some inorganic compounds in the air are decomposed by strong oxidizing substances, thereby filtering and purifying harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds in the air. The purified air flows out from the first air outlet 121.
[0240] In some embodiments, the first air inlet 111 is provided with a dust filter element, such as dustproof cotton, dustproof cover, dustproof belt, etc., to adsorb or filter dust, large particulate matter, inorganic compounds, etc. in the air, so as to prevent them from entering the airflow channel and contaminating the purification module, thereby improving the life of the purification module.
[0241] In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 14 to 16, the outer casing 10 includes a body 102 and a top cover 101 connected together. A first air inlet 111 is disposed on the body 102, and a first air outlet 121 is disposed on the top cover 101. The top cover 101 is disposed on the side of the inner cylinder 20 away from the first air inlet 111. This arrangement allows the first air outlet 121 to be as far away as possible, resulting in a longer airflow path in the first airflow channel 131. This increases the contact time between the air and the photocatalyst 31, allowing volatile harmful substances in the air to be decomposed by strong oxidizing substances as much as possible, thereby improving filtration and purification efficiency.
[0242] The main body 102 can be configured as a circular cylinder with openings at both ends, and the top cover 101 can be configured as a circular top cover 101. The main body 102 and the top cover 101 can be configured as an integral part.
[0243] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG16, the gas purification device 100 further includes a base 70, with the outer shell 10 and the inner cylinder 20 respectively connected to the base 70, and the base 70 providing support and protection for the outer shell 10 and the inner cylinder 20.
[0244] In an optional embodiment, the first air inlet 111 may also be disposed on the base 70, and the first air outlet 121 may be disposed on the housing 10. Specifically, the first air inlet 111 and the first air outlet 121 are disposed opposite each other in the height direction of the housing 10 to improve the smoothness of airflow in the first airflow channel 131.
[0245] In some embodiments, the gas purification device 100 further includes a second air inlet 112 and a second air outlet 122. The second air inlet 112 is connected to a second airflow channel 132, and the second air outlet 122 is connected to a first airflow channel 131 and a second airflow channel 132, so that the ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 flows from the second air outlet 122 to the first airflow channel 131. In one example, the second air inlet 112 can be directly connected to the target space 600, as shown in Figures 15 and 16. The second air inlet 112 is disposed on the base 70, and the second air outlet 122 is disposed on the inner cylinder 20, so that the air in the target space 600 enters the second airflow channel 132 from the second air inlet 112, generates ozone under the action of the ozone supply device 50, and the ozone enters the first airflow channel 131 from the second air outlet 122 with the airflow, thereby improving the purification effect. In another example, the second air inlet 112 can also be connected to the first airflow channel 131, as shown in Figure 17. The second air inlet 112 and the second air outlet 122 are both located in the inner cylinder 20, so that the air in the first airflow channel 131 enters the second airflow channel 132 from the second air inlet 112.
[0246] The photocatalyst 31 covers the second air outlet 122. Specifically, the photocatalyst substrate covers the second air outlet 122, allowing ozone to directly contact the photocatalyst on the photocatalyst substrate, thereby enhancing the reaction efficiency of the photocatalyst. The connection between the inner cylinder 20 and the base 70 includes methods such as slot fixing, screw tightening, magnetic connection, and adhesive bonding. For example, as shown in Figures 16 and 18, the base 70 is provided with a first slot 72, and the bottom end of the inner cylinder 20 is provided with a first locking block 21 that engages with the first slot 72. The connection between the outer shell 10 and the base 70 includes methods such as slot fixing, screw tightening, magnetic connection, and adhesive bonding, which will not be elaborated here.
[0247] As shown in Figure 14, the photocatalyst 31 is disposed on the outer periphery of the inner cylinder 20, and the light source assembly 40 is mounted on the base 70 and disposed opposite to the photocatalyst 31. The photocatalyst substrate and the light source assembly 40 are disposed correspondingly, as shown in Figures 13 and 16. The light emitted by the light source assembly 40 at a preset wavelength can irradiate the photocatalyst substrate, causing the photocatalyst attached to the photocatalyst substrate to undergo a photochemical reaction with the light of the preset wavelength (such as UV light), thereby producing highly oxidizing substances (such as hydroxyl radicals, oxygen, etc.).
[0248] Furthermore, multiple photocatalysts 31 and multiple light source assemblies 40 can be provided, with each light source assembly 40 corresponding to one of the multiple photocatalysts 31. For example, as shown in Figure 16, four photocatalysts 31 are provided, and the four photocatalysts 31 are respectively installed around the inner cylinder 20. This improves filtration and purification efficiency.
[0249] The connection between the photocatalyst 31 and the inner cylinder 20 can be achieved through methods such as slot fixing, screw tightening, magnetic connection, and adhesive bonding. For example, as shown in Figure 18, a second slot 22 is provided on the periphery of the inner cylinder 20, and the photocatalyst 31 is snapped onto the second slot 22 of the inner cylinder 20.
[0250] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG18, the ozone supply device 50 includes a housing 501 and an ozone generating unit 503, the ozone generating unit 503 being installed inside the housing 501; the housing 501 is disposed inside the inner cylinder 20 and detachably connected to the inner cylinder 20. Exemplarily, the inner cylinder 20 is provided with a first positioning hole 23, and the housing 501 is provided with a first positioning post 502 that engages with the first positioning hole 23 to limit the positioning of the housing 501. The inner cylinder 20 is provided with a first connecting hole, and the housing 501 is provided with a second connecting hole corresponding to the first connecting hole. Bolts are provided on the first and second connecting holes to fix the housing 501 to the inner cylinder 20.
[0251] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 18 and 19, the light source assembly 40 includes a connected light source 41 and a heat sink 43. A mounting groove 73 is provided on the base 70, and one end of the light source 41 near the base 70 is embedded in the mounting groove 73. A second positioning hole 411 is provided at the end of the light source 41 away from the base 70, and a second positioning post connected to the second positioning hole 411 is provided on the side of the top cover 101 facing the base 70. The light source 41 can adopt a COB light source arrangement. A COB light source 41 is a high-efficiency integrated surface light source 41 in which LED chips are directly mounted on a high-reflectivity mirror metal substrate, offering advantages such as small size, concentrated energy, and ease of driving. The light source 41 and the heat sink 43 are tightly fixed with thermally conductive silicone grease, thereby achieving efficient heat dissipation of the light source 41.
[0252] In some preferred embodiments of this application, the distance between the light source 41 and the photocatalyst substrate is 3mm-10mm, which allows light of a preset wavelength to effectively irradiate the photocatalyst substrate. It is understood that a distance that is too large results in some energy being wasted from the light source assembly 40, hindering full energy utilization, while a distance that is too small may prevent the light emitted by the light source assembly 40 from reaching the entire photocatalyst substrate (or the catalyst on it) with the predetermined energy.
[0253] It should be noted that the ozone supply device 50 shown in Figures 18 and 19 is installed inside the inner cylinder 20. That is, the box 501 and the ozone generating unit 503 are installed inside the inner cylinder 20 during use. For illustrative purposes, they are shown on the outside of the inner cylinder 20 in the figures.
[0254] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 16, the purification assembly 30 further includes an ozone oxidation module 810. The ozone oxidation module 810 is disposed on the outside of the top cover 101. The ozone oxidation module 810 is configured to react with the ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 to generate strong oxidizing substances, such as hydroxyl radical ions and negative oxygen ions. The hydroxyl radical ions further react with VOCs that have not fully reacted under photocatalysis, thereby further purifying the VOCs. Specifically, the ozone oxidation module 810 includes a first honeycomb cell 501 and an ozone oxidation catalyst filled inside the first honeycomb cell 501. The ozone decomposition catalyst contains at least a manganese metal oxide component, allowing the ozone from the ozone supply device 50 to react with the ozone oxidation catalyst in the ozone oxidation module 810 to generate strong oxidizing substances, such as hydroxyl radical ions and negative oxygen ions, further purifying harmful substances. The first honeycomb cell 501 can be cylindrical or other shapes; this application does not impose specific limitations on this.
[0255] Optionally, a dustproof cotton is provided between the first honeycomb box 501 and the top cover 101 to ensure the lifespan of the ozone oxidation catalyst.
[0256] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 16, the purification component 30 includes an ozone decomposition module 820. The ozone decomposition module 820 and the ozone oxidation module 810 are stacked sequentially on the outside of the top cover 101. The ozone decomposition module 820 is located on the side of the ozone oxidation module 810 away from the top cover 101. The ozone decomposition module 820 is configured to catalytically decompose the ozone that has not been completely reacted in the airflow flowing out of the first airflow channel 131, so that the gas discharged from the first air outlet 121 meets the ozone emission standard. Specifically, the ozone decomposition module 820 includes a second honeycomb cell 501 and an ozone decomposition catalyst filled inside the second honeycomb cell 501. The ozone decomposition catalyst contains at least manganese metal oxide. Ozone may not react completely with the photocatalyst in the photocatalyst substrate, and the ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 may not be completely consumed. Therefore, some ozone may flow out from the first air outlet 121 into the target space 600. This part of the ozone reacts with the ozone decomposition catalyst in the ozone decomposition module 820 to decompose the incompletely consumed ozone, so that the gas discharged from the first air outlet 121 meets the ozone emission standards.
[0257] The upper and lower surfaces of the first and / or second honeycomb cell 501 described above include a mesh. For example, the mesh can be a stainless steel mesh, which can enhance resistance to ozone oxidation and improve service life.
[0258] In some embodiments, the ozone oxidation module 810 and / or the ozone decomposition module 820 have inlets and outlets to allow airflow to enter or leave. For example, the inlet is a mesh structure consisting of multiple holes. The ozone oxidation module 810 is filled with an ozone oxidation catalyst, and the ozone decomposition module 820 is filled with an ozone decomposition catalyst.
[0259] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG20, a fan assembly is also included, which is disposed in the gas passage 13. The fan assembly can be used to drive the airflow to move unidirectionally within the gas passage 13, thereby realizing the circulation of air between the gas passage 13 and the target space 600.
[0260] It should be noted that the fan assembly may include one or more fans. Along the airflow direction in the gas passage 13, the fan assembly may be disposed at the upper end of the housing 10 or at the lower end of the housing 10, both of which can achieve the purpose of this application.
[0261] In a preferred embodiment, the fan assembly includes an air inlet side and an air outlet side disposed opposite to each other, and the ozone decomposition module 820 is located on the air inlet side of the fan assembly. The ozone decomposition module 820 is disposed close to the air inlet side of the fan assembly so that the air discharged from the air outlet side of the fan assembly meets ozone emission standards.
[0262] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG16, a receiving cavity 74 and a partition 75 covering the receiving cavity 74 are provided on the base 70. A controller 71 is provided inside the receiving cavity 74. The controller 71 is electrically connected to the light source assembly 40 and the ozone supply device 50, and is used to control the opening and closing of the light source assembly 40 and the ozone supply device 50. The partition 75 is used to block the receiving cavity 74 and the second airflow channel 132. Since ozone accelerates the aging of the controller 71, by providing the partition 75, ozone in the second airflow channel 132 can be prevented from entering the receiving cavity 74, thereby improving the lifespan of the controller 71.
[0263] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG20, the gas purification device 100 further includes a cover 17, which covers the outside of the housing 10 to provide protection and enhance the aesthetics of the gas purification device 100.
[0264] In some embodiments, the enclosure 17 is further provided with a power module and a main control board. The power module is used to provide electrical energy to the entire device. The power module and the main control board are electrically connected. The main control board is electrically connected to the controller 71. The main control board is electrically connected to the fan assembly and is used to control the rotation of the fan.
[0265] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG20, the cover 17 includes a front panel 171, a rear panel 172, a top panel 173 and two side panels 174, which together form an accommodating space.
[0266] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG20, the front panel 171 is also provided with an indicator light, a display screen 16 and a sensor. The sensor is used to detect the VOCs concentration status. The display screen 16 is electrically connected to the main control board and is used to display air purification information such as the fan speed, timer, network status, and current ambient VOCs concentration. Different functions can be indicated by different color states of the indicator light.
[0267] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the target space 600 accommodates at least one 3D printing device 200, meaning that both the gas purification device 100 and the 3D printing device 200 are housed within the target space 600. In this case, the gas purification device 100 is located outside the forming space 210. The 3D printing system also includes an air guide assembly 300, which is used to transport the target gas 700 from the target space 600 to the gas purification device 100. It can be understood that the air guide assembly 300 can not only transport the working gas within the forming space 210 to the gas purification device 100, but also transport the working gas leaking from outside the forming space 210 to the gas purification device 100.
[0268] In some embodiments of this application, the target space 600 is a building space such as a workshop or factory. When the target space 600 has poor ventilation, the air in the target space 600 can be purified by a gas purification device 100 that is independently encapsulated or integrated into the 3D printing equipment 200. This device can filter both large molecular dust impurities and volatile organic compounds and other harmful substances, greatly improving the air purification effect within the target space 600. In this case, it is unnecessary to place the 3D printing equipment 200 near a window in the target space 600, nor is it necessary to discharge harmful gases from inside the target space 600 into the external environment through pipes, thus reducing environmental pollution and lowering the requirements for the operator's working environment, making it more environmentally friendly.
[0269] The air guiding assembly 300 may include a ventilation duct and an air pump. The ventilation duct connects the target space 600 and the air inlet 11, and the air pump drives the target gas 700 in the target space 600 to be delivered to the air inlet 11. Specifically, the gas purification device 100 may be located at the bottom of the 3D printing equipment 200. The air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 are respectively located on the left and right sides of the gas purification device 100. The gas purification device 100 is located at the bottom of the 3D printing equipment 200, which can make full use of the space at the bottom of the 3D printing equipment 200, thereby reducing the lateral size of the 3D printing system.
[0270] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, the 3D printing system further includes an exhaust gas treatment device 400, which is used to collect or remove the products obtained by purifying the target gas 700. Specifically, the exhaust gas treatment device 400 can be connected to the air outlet 12, and can draw the gas treated by the gas purification device 100 back to the 3D printing equipment 200 for internal circulation or discharge it to the outside of the 3D printing system.
[0271] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG9, an embodiment of this application provides a 3D printing system. The 3D printing system includes multiple 3D printing devices 200 and a gas purification device 100. The gas purification device 100 is arranged in the space of the 3D printing system and is connected to the target space of the 3D printing devices 200 that contains printing material. The gas purification device 100 can purify the target gas in the target space of the 3D printing devices 200 that contains printing material. Alternatively, the gas purification device can purify the target gas in the space of the 3D printing system (i.e., the space that contains multiple 3D printing devices).
[0272] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 to 11, the purification method of the above-described 3D printing system includes:
[0273] Turn on the light source component 40 and ozone supply device 50 of the gas purification device 100 to purify the working gas of the 3D printing equipment 200.
[0274] In some embodiments, the light source assembly 40 and ozone supply device 50 of the gas purification device 100 are turned on to purify the working gas of the 3D printing equipment 200. Before this, the method further includes: obtaining the pollutant content of the gas passage 13 of the gas purification device 100.
[0275] Specifically, it may include the following steps:
[0276] Step S1: Activate the detection unit 60 (e.g., VOCs sensor) to detect and read sensor values.
[0277] After each 3D printing cycle, the filament container is usually not thoroughly cleaned for convenience. After a period of time, the VOC content inside the equipment often exceeds the safety threshold. To prevent operators from inhaling excessive amounts of harmful gases and causing discomfort when starting a new 3D printing cycle, it is necessary to test the VOC content inside the equipment to ensure that the environment meets environmental standards before printing. This testing can be achieved using a VOC sensor, which can be based on semiconductor or electrochemical principles. The controller 71 (e.g., a computer) obtains the VOC content value inside the equipment by communicating with the sensor.
[0278] Step S2: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0279] The computer reads the VOCs sensor values and compares them with a pre-set VOCs content alarm threshold. Based on the result, it proceeds to the next step. If the values are below the preset threshold, the 3D printing equipment 200 begins the 3D printing process; if the values exceed the preset threshold, the 3D printing equipment 200 issues a warning and enters the photocatalytic air purification process.
[0280] Step S3: Prompt and start the air purification process:
[0281] After the 3D printing equipment 200 prompts and activates the air purification process, the gas purification device 100 begins operation. First, the light source component 40 is turned on, and the light source 41 is illuminated under the drive of the driving circuit 42. The light source 41 can be visible light or UV light of different wavelengths, depending on the type of light source 41 and its compatibility with the photocatalyst material. Secondly, the light source 41 can be a high-pressure mercury lamp, an LED bead / panel, or other forms. Once illuminated, the light source 41 illuminates the photocatalyst material, causing a chemical reaction on its surface to generate highly oxidizing negative oxygen ions and hydroxyl radical ions. These ions react with VOCs molecules in the environment through oxidation-reduction reactions, ultimately decomposing them into harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. Simultaneously, the ozone supply device 50 is activated. Ozone is generated by the ozone generation module. The highly oxidizing ozone promotes the oxidative decomposition of intermediate small molecule byproducts generated in the initial photocatalytic reaction, ultimately resulting in the complete reaction and the generation of harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. As the purification reaction proceeds, the VOCs sensor readings gradually decrease.
[0282] Step S4: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0283] The sensor readings are compared again with the preset alarm threshold. If the readings are below the preset threshold, the gas purification device 100 can be shut down, and / or the 3D printing device 200 can begin the 3D printing process; if the readings are above the preset threshold, step S3 is repeated.
[0284] In some embodiments, the air purification method further includes: acquiring the pollutant content of the air passage of the gas purification device 100 at preset time intervals; if the pollutant content exceeds a preset threshold, controlling the power of the light source component 40 to increase and controlling the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 to increase; if the pollutant content is lower than the preset threshold, turning off the light source component 40 and the ozone supply device 50.
[0285] Specifically, it may include the following steps:
[0286] Step S1: Turn on the detection unit 60 (e.g., VOCs sensor) to detect and read sensor values;
[0287] Step S2: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0288] Step S3: Prompt and start the air purification process;
[0289] Step S4: Compare the sensor reading with the preset judgment threshold: Compare the sensor reading with the preset alarm threshold again. If it is lower than the preset threshold, the gas purification device 100 can be turned off, and / or the 3D printing device 200 can start the 3D printing process; if it is higher than the preset threshold, the power of the light source component 40 is increased and the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 is increased.
[0290] In some embodiments, where the gas purification device 100 further includes the oxygen supply device 80, the air purification method further includes: controlling the opening and closing of the oxygen supply device 80 according to the pollutant content, and controlling the oxygen concentration generated by the oxygen supply device 80 when the oxygen supply device 80 is turned on.
[0291] Specifically, it may include the following steps:
[0292] Step S1: Turn on the detection unit 60 (e.g., VOCs sensor) to detect and read sensor values;
[0293] Step S2: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0294] Step S3: Prompt and start the air purification process:
[0295] After the air purification process is initiated, the gas purification device 100 begins operation. First, the light source 41 is illuminated by the drive circuit 42. Simultaneously, the oxygen supply device 80 and ozone supply device 50 inside the device are activated. Oxygen is generated by an air pump and a molecular sieve structure. By introducing a certain concentration of oxygen into the reaction area, an oxygen-rich environment is created, which is beneficial for the purification photocatalytic reaction. Ozone is generated by the ozone supply device 50. The strong oxidizing properties of ozone can promote the oxidation of intermediate small molecule byproducts produced in the initial hydrolysis reaction of the photocatalyst, ultimately resulting in the complete reaction to produce harmless substances such as water and carbon dioxide. As the purification reaction proceeds, the value of the TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) sensor gradually decreases.
[0296] Step S4: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold: Compare the sensor reading with the preset alarm threshold again. If it is lower than the preset threshold, the gas purification device 100 can be turned off, and / or the 3D printing device 200 can start the 3D printing process; if it is higher than the preset threshold, the power of the light source component 40 is increased, the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 is increased, and the oxygen concentration generated by the oxygen supply device 80 is increased.
[0297] In some embodiments, where the gas purification device 100 further includes a ventilation device 90, the air purification method further includes: controlling the opening and closing of the ventilation device 90 according to the pollutant content, and controlling the wind speed generated by the ventilation device 90 when the ventilation device 90 is turned on.
[0298] Specifically, it may include the following steps:
[0299] Step S1: Turn on the detection unit 60 (e.g., VOCs sensor) to detect and read sensor values;
[0300] Step S2: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0301] Step S3: Prompt and activate the air purification process: After the 3D printing equipment 200 prompts and activates the air purification process, the gas purification device 100 begins operation. First, the light source 41 is illuminated under the drive of the driving circuit 42. Simultaneously, the ventilation device 90 (such as a fan or blower) inside the gas purification device 100 starts, causing the gas in the reaction space to circulate, increasing the contact area and rate between VOCs molecules and the photocatalyst material. At the same time, the oxygen and ozone generators inside the gas purification device 100 are activated. As the purification reaction proceeds, the VOCs sensor readings gradually decrease.
[0302] Step S4: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold: Compare the sensor reading with the preset alarm threshold again. If it is lower than the preset threshold, the 3D printing equipment 200 enters the 3D printing process; if it is higher than the preset threshold, the power of the light source component 40 is increased, the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 is increased, the oxygen concentration generated by the oxygen supply device 80 is increased, and the wind speed of the ventilation device 90 is increased.
[0303] In some embodiments, where the gas purification device 100 further includes an ozone sensor, the method further includes: acquiring the ozone concentration at the air outlet 12 of the gas purification device 100 at preset time intervals, controlling the opening and closing of the ozone supply device 50 based on the ozone concentration, and controlling the amount of ozone generated by the ozone supply device 50 when the ozone supply device 50 is turned on.
[0304] In some embodiments, the air purification method further includes: real-time detection of pollutant content in the gas passage 13; and controlling the gas purification device 100 to shut down when the pollutant content is lower than a preset threshold.
[0305] In some embodiments, the air purification method further includes: detecting the pollutant content after each 3D printing and / or during the 3D printing process, and deciding whether to activate the gas purification device 100 based on the detection results.
[0306] Specifically, it may include the following steps:
[0307] Step S1: Turn on the detection unit 60 (e.g., VOCs sensor) to detect and read sensor values;
[0308] Step S2: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold.
[0309] Step S3: Prompt and start the air purification process;
[0310] Step S4: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold: Compare the sensor reading with the preset alarm threshold again. If it is lower than the preset threshold, the 3D printing device 200 starts the 3D printing process; if it is higher than the preset threshold, repeat step S3.
[0311] Step S5: Begin the 3D printing process;
[0312] Step S6, the 3D printing process ends;
[0313] Step S7: After completing the 3D printing process, operators typically need to open the sealed printing chamber door of the printing equipment and remove the 3D printed part for subsequent cleaning, curing, and other post-processing operations. During the 3D printing process, the lifting and lowering motion of the printing platform agitates the liquid photosensitive resin in the material tray. Simultaneously, some 3D printing equipment 200 has resin heating functions, which accelerates the volatilization of VOCs from the liquid resin material, leading to an increase in VOC content within the 3D printing equipment 200. If the operator opens the equipment chamber door at this time, they may inhale excessive amounts of harmful components, causing discomfort. Therefore, a second VOC content test is necessary.
[0314] Step S8 prompts and starts the air purification process, as above;
[0315] Step S9: Compare the sensor reading with a preset judgment threshold: Compare the sensor reading with the preset alarm threshold again. If it is lower than the preset threshold, proceed to step S10 to start the exhaust gas treatment and emission process; if it is higher than the preset threshold, repeat step S8.
[0316] In some embodiments, the air purification method further includes: the treated gas is drawn back into the 3D printing equipment 200 for internal circulation through the exhaust gas treatment device 400, or discharged to the outside of the 3D printing equipment 200.
[0317] The following description is based on specific embodiments.
[0318] Example 1:
[0319] Please refer to Figure 1. This application embodiment provides a gas purification device 100, which is applied in a 3D printing device 200. The gas purification device 100 has a gas passage 13, which is provided with an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The gas purification device 100 also includes a photocatalyst 31 (TiO2 photocatalyst filter), a light source assembly 40 (ultraviolet lamp), and an ozone supply device 50.
[0320] The air purification method using the above-mentioned gas purification device 100 in the 3D printing equipment 200 includes the following steps: turning on the ultraviolet lamp, setting the ultraviolet wavelength to 254nm and the power to 30W; and simultaneously turning on the ozone supply device 50, generating an ozone amount of 50mg / h, to purify the air.
[0321] Example 2:
[0322] Please refer to Figure 2. This application embodiment provides a gas purification device 100, which is applied in a 3D printing device 200. The gas purification device 100 has a gas passage 13, which is provided with an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The gas purification device 100 also includes a photocatalyst 31 (TiO2 photocatalyst filter), a light source assembly 40 (ultraviolet lamp), an ozone supply device 50, and an oxygen supply device 80.
[0323] The air purification method using the gas purification device 100 in the 3D printing equipment 200 includes the following steps: turning on the ultraviolet lamp, setting the ultraviolet wavelength to 254nm and the power to 30W; simultaneously turning on the ozone supply device 50, generating ozone at a rate of 50mg / h; simultaneously turning on the oxygen supply device 80, generating oxygen at a rate of 1L / min, so that the oxygen content in the gas passage 13 is maintained at 30% to 50%, thereby purifying the air.
[0324] Comparative Example 1:
[0325] This application provides a gas purification device 100 for use in a 3D printing equipment 200. The gas purification device 100 has a gas passage 13, which is provided with an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The gas purification device 100 also includes a photocatalyst 31 (TiO2 photocatalyst filter) and a light source assembly 40 (ultraviolet lamp).
[0326] The air purification method using the above-mentioned gas purification device 100 in the 3D printing equipment 200 includes the following steps: turning on the ultraviolet lamp, setting the ultraviolet wavelength to 254nm and the power to 30W, and purifying the air.
[0327] Comparative Example 2:
[0328] This application provides a gas purification device 100 for use in a 3D printing equipment 200. The gas purification device 100 has a gas passage 13, which is provided with an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The gas purification device 100 also includes a photocatalyst 31 (TiO2 photocatalyst filter), a light source assembly 40 (ultraviolet lamp), and an oxygen supply device 80.
[0329] The air purification method using the above-mentioned gas purification device 100 in the 3D printing equipment 200 includes the following steps: turning on the ultraviolet lamp, setting the ultraviolet wavelength to 254nm and the power to 30W; and simultaneously turning on the oxygen supply device 80, generating oxygen at a rate of 1L / min, so that the oxygen content in the gas passage 13 is maintained at 30% to 50%, thereby purifying the air.
[0330] Comparative Example 3:
[0331] The gas purification device includes a photocatalyst (TiO2 photocatalytic filter) and an ozone supply device, which introduces ozone into the target space at a rate of 50 mg / h, without ultraviolet radiation and without additional oxygen.
[0332] Comparative Example 4:
[0333] The gas purification device includes a photocatalyst (TiO2 photocatalytic filter) and an oxygen supply device, which introduces oxygen into the target space at a rate of 1L / min. There is no ultraviolet radiation and no additional ozone is introduced.
[0334] Comparative Example 5:
[0335] The gas purification device includes a photocatalyst (TiO2 photocatalytic filter) and an oxygen supply device, which introduces oxygen into the target space at a rate of 1L / min. There is no ultraviolet radiation and no additional ozone is introduced.
[0336] After 8 minutes, the concentration of relevant organic matter (including organic matter directly from the printing material and its decomposition products) in the space was detected by using a TVOC detector, for example, and the results are shown in Table 1 below.
[0337] Table 1
[0338] As shown in Table 1, Example 1 involved active ozone injection without introducing additional oxygen (oxygen was already present in the air). The data showed a significant decrease in VOCs content, exceeding 75%, indicating that providing additional ozone could essentially eliminate the resin odor. Example 2 involved simultaneous injection of oxygen and ozone. The data showed a further decrease in VOCs content, and the odor caused by organic matter was essentially eliminated.
[0339] In Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the VOC levels increased due to the absence of ozone injection. This is because the products of VOC decomposition under light were detected by the sensor, and at least some of these products emitted an odor, resulting in a purification effect that did not meet expectations. Comparative Example 2, without ozone injection but with only oxygen injected, still showed an increase in VOC levels, but the level was lower than in Comparative Example 1. This is because 254nm UV light decomposes oxygen in the air to produce ozone. The additional oxygen input increased the amount of ozone generated, causing some of the VOC decomposition products to be oxidized by the increased ozone, thus lowering the detected VOC levels compared to Comparative Example 1. However, the amount of ozone generated through this reaction was insufficient to completely react with all the decomposition products. Injecting or preparing additional ozone is beneficial for eliminating the influence of resin odor.
[0340] Comparative Example 3 relied solely on ozone to oxidize VOCs, but it was difficult to oxidize all VOCs; only a portion were oxidized, and excess ozone also emitted an odor. Comparative Example 4 only injected additional oxygen; the test results showed that VOCs were essentially not eliminated or converted under conditions lacking ultraviolet light. Comparative Example 4 injected both additional oxygen and ozone, but without applying ultraviolet light. The test results showed that under normal lighting conditions (indoor light), TiO2 in an oxygen-rich environment could promote the decomposition of VOCs, and the injected ozone could react with the small molecule products after decomposition. However, the overall purification efficiency of this method was less than that under ultraviolet light conditions.
[0341] This application also conducted the following tests: For a target space of 60L, a 30W mercury lamp was used to provide 254nm ultraviolet light, along with a TiO2-loaded ceramic filter. Ozone was introduced into the target space at a flow rate of 50mg / H, and oxygen was introduced at a flow rate of 1L / min. The initial VOCs content in the target space detected by the TVOC sensor was 0.8mg / m³. 3 When the input oxygen concentration is 30%, the VOC content detected by the TVOC sensor after 15 minutes is approximately 0.001 mg / m³. 3 When the input oxygen concentration is 35%, the VOC content detected by the TVOC sensor after 8 minutes is approximately 0.001 mg / m³. 3 When the input oxygen concentration is 40%, the VOC content detected by the TVOC sensor after 5 minutes is approximately 0.001 mg / m³. 3 .
[0342] Figure 10 illustrates a purification flowchart. Target gas (VOCs) 1010 from the printing material of a 3D printing device is directed to a photocatalyst 1020 (e.g., TiO2). A light source 1030 (e.g., ultraviolet light) excites the photocatalyst 1020, causing electron transitions and reactions with oxygen in the space, thereby promoting the decomposition of the target gas 1010 into small molecule products 1050. The aforementioned oxygen can be oxygen from the air (concentration approximately 21%) or oxygen supplied by an oxygen supply device 1040, which increases the oxygen concentration in the target space, thus promoting the decomposition of the target gas. Those skilled in the art will understand that the hydrolysis reaction of VOCs under light and a catalyst involves the participation of O2 and H2O. The “input O2” described in this application indicates the presence of corresponding H2O for the reaction (e.g., H2O in the air already meets the requirements for the hydrolysis reaction). The small molecule products 1050 are oxidized by ozone 1060 to generate final products 1070 (e.g., CO2 and H2O). Ozone 1060 can be prepared by an ozone generator and introduced into the target space (e.g., applied to a photocatalyst), or alternatively obtained by photolysis or electrolysis of oxygen 1080 in the target space. The H2O in the final product 1070 can be used in the hydrolysis of VOCs.
[0343] By using the solution provided in this application, the 3D printing device 200 can be used in more user application scenarios, such as schools, hospitals, offices, and personal homes.
[0344] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims. Industrial applicability
[0345] The gas purification device and method provided in this application can be applied to 3D printing equipment. The gas purification method includes: providing a target space in which printing material for 3D printing is arranged, such that the target space includes a target gas originating from the printing material; arranging a photocatalyst in the target space; projecting light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst to excite it; introducing oxygen into the target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space; and introducing ozone into the target space and / or generating ozone in the target space. The gas purification device of this application aims to solve the air pollution problem generated during the 3D printing process, especially for the efficient purification of harmful gases such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Claims
A gas purification method for 3D printing, wherein, include: A target space is provided in which printing material for 3D printing is arranged, such that the target space includes a target gas originating from the printing material; A photocatalyst is arranged in the target space; A predetermined wavelength of light is projected onto the photocatalyst to excite the photocatalyst; Oxygen is introduced into the target space to increase the oxygen concentration therein; and Introduce ozone into the target space and / or generate ozone in the target space. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The target space: Configured to accommodate at least one 3D printing device; or Limited to a single 3D printing device. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The 3D printing equipment includes any one of DLP printing equipment, LCD printing equipment, FDM printing equipment, SLA printing equipment, and inkjet 3D printing equipment. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The predetermined wavelength of light includes visible light and / or ultraviolet light. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Use a first light source to emit visible light; and / or Ultraviolet light is emitted using a second light source independent of the first light source. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The light of the predetermined wavelength includes at least one wavelength selected from the following ranges: 190nm to 280nm, 281nm to 320nm, and 321nm to 400nm. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The light of the predetermined wavelength includes at least one wavelength selected from the following ranges: 240nm to 260nm, 310nm to 320nm, and 340nm to 360nm. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing oxygen into the target space includes: continuously or intermittently introducing oxygen into the target space at a predetermined flow rate to promote the decomposition of organic compounds in the target gas. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing oxygen into the target space includes: using an oxygen supply device to output oxygen of a predetermined concentration to the target space, wherein the predetermined concentration is 25% to 100%. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen toward the photocatalyst, such that within a 0.5m radius centered on the photocatalyst... 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 28%–70%. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen into the target space such that within a 5m radius centered on the photocatalyst... 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 30% to 50%. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The step of introducing ozone into the target space and / or generating ozone in the target space includes: Ozone is obtained by using light of the predetermined wavelength to decompose oxygen in the target space; and / or, Ozone is obtained by using an electric current to decompose oxygen in the target space; and / or... Ozone, independent of the target space, is introduced into the target space. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The concentrations of oxygen and ozone introduced into the target space are configured such that the concentrations of the target gas and ozone in at least a portion of the target space are both 0–0.050 mg / m³. 3 Preferred concentration: 0–0.005 mg / m³ 3 . The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: A ventilation system is used to accelerate the flow of gas in the target space. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: Detect the concentration of the target gas in the target space; When the detected concentration of the target gas is greater than a first predetermined concentration, light of a predetermined wavelength is projected onto the photocatalyst. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: Detect the concentration of the target gas associated with the printing material in the target space; When the concentration of the detected target gas is less than the second predetermined concentration, the projection of light of the predetermined wavelength is stopped, and the input and / or generation of ozone is stopped. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: Collect or remove gases that have undergone purification and / or products obtained from the purified gases. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: One or more of activated carbon filter cartridges, HEPA filter cartridges, particulate filter cartridges, fiber filter cartridges, and electrostatic filter cartridges are arranged in the target space. A gas purification device, wherein... include: Photocatalyst unit, including photocatalyst; A light source assembly configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst; and An ozone supply device configured to introduce ozone into a target space or generate ozone in the target space; the target space includes a target gas derived from printing material. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: An oxygen supply device is configured to supply oxygen to the target space in order to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The photocatalytic unit also includes one or more of the following: activated carbon filter, HEPA filter, particulate filter, fiber filter, and electrostatic filter. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide; And / or, the photocatalyst unit further includes a support for carrying the photocatalyst; And / or, the light source component is an ultraviolet light source. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of the following: non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: The housing defines a gas passage communicating with the target space. The housing has an air inlet for gas to flow into the gas passage and an air outlet for gas to flow out of the gas passage. The photocatalyst is disposed within the gas passage. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: An inner cylinder is disposed in the gas passage, which divides the gas passage into a first airflow channel and a second airflow channel; the ozone supply device is disposed in the second airflow channel, and the ozone generated by the ozone supply device flows from the second airflow channel to the first airflow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The air inlet includes a first air inlet, and the air outlet includes a first air outlet. The first air inlet is connected to the first airflow channel, and the first air outlet is connected to the first airflow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The outer casing includes a body and a top cover connected to each other. The first air inlet is disposed on the body, and the first air outlet is disposed on the top cover. The top cover is disposed on the side of the inner cylinder away from the first air inlet. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: The base, the outer shell and the inner cylinder are respectively connected to the base. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The first air inlet is located on the base, and the first air outlet is located on the outer casing. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The air inlet further includes a second air inlet, and the air outlet further includes a second air outlet. The second air inlet is connected to the second airflow channel, and the second air outlet is connected to the first airflow channel and the second airflow channel, so that the ozone generated by the ozone supply device flows from the second air outlet to the first airflow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Both the second air inlet and the second air outlet are located within the inner cylinder; or The second air inlet is located on the base, and the second air outlet is located on the inner cylinder. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Both the light source assembly and the photocatalyst unit are disposed in the first airflow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: The base, wherein the photocatalyst unit is disposed on the outer periphery of the inner cylinder; The light source assembly is mounted on the base and is positioned opposite to the photocatalyst unit. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The photocatalyst covers the second air outlet. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The ozone supply device includes a housing and an ozone generating unit, the ozone generating unit being installed inside the housing; the housing is disposed inside the inner cylinder and is detachably connected to the inner cylinder. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: An ozone oxidation module is configured to react with ozone generated by the ozone supply device to generate a strong oxidizing substance, which is used to purify unreacted harmful substances in the airflow flowing out of the first airflow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: An ozone decomposition module is provided, which is stacked with the ozone oxidation module. The ozone decomposition module is configured to catalytically decompose unreacted ozone in the gas flow exiting the first gas flow channel. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: A ventilation device for accelerating the flow of gas in the target space. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The ventilation device is a fan assembly, which is located on the outside of the housing. The gas purification device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: A cover, which is placed over the outside of the outer shell. A 3D printing system, wherein, The system includes a 3D printing device and a gas purification device, wherein the gas purification device is arranged in a target space associated with the printing material of the 3D printing device, and the gas purification device includes: Photocatalyst unit, including photocatalyst; A light source assembly configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst; An oxygen supply device configured to supply oxygen to the target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space; and An ozone supply device configured to input ozone into the target space or generate ozone in the target space. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... It also includes a ventilation device for accelerating the flow of gas in the target space; optionally, the oxygen supply device includes a molecular sieve. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The gas purification device includes a housing that defines a gas passage communicating with the target space. The housing has an air inlet for airflow into the gas passage and an air outlet for airflow out of the gas passage. The photocatalyst is disposed within the gas passage. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The photocatalyst includes at least one of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, tungsten trioxide, and modified titanium dioxide; And / or, the photocatalyst unit further includes a support for carrying the photocatalyst; And / or, the light source component is an ultraviolet light source. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The modified titanium dioxide includes at least one of the following: non-metal-doped titanium dioxide, metal-doped titanium dioxide, noble metal-deposited titanium dioxide, and heterostructured titanium dioxide. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... It also includes a detection unit and a controller. The detection unit is used to detect the concentration of the target gas associated with the printing material in the target space. The controller is communicatively connected to the light source assembly, the ozone supply device, the oxygen supply device, and the detection unit, respectively. The controller is used to control the light source assembly, the ozone supply device, and the oxygen supply device according to the concentration of the target gas. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The detection unit includes an ozone sensor for detecting ozone levels. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The 3D printing equipment has a closed target space; or The target space contains at least one of the three-dimensional printing devices. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The 3D printing system also includes an exhaust gas treatment device for collecting or removing products obtained by purifying the target gas and / or gases after purification. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The 3D printing equipment also includes a printer housing, and the outer shell is detachably connected to the printer housing. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The outer casing is provided with a first connecting part, and the printer housing is provided with a second connecting part; The gas purification device is attached to the second connecting part of the 3D printing equipment via the first connecting part; or The gas purification device is connected to the second connection part of the 3D printing equipment via the first connection part snap-fit; or The gas purification device is magnetically connected to the second connection part of the 3D printing equipment via the first connection part; or The gas purification device is supported by the second connecting part of the 3D printing equipment through the first connecting part. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The printer housing and the outer shell are an integral structure. The 3D printing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The gas purification device is located inside the printer housing, and the housing has a clearance portion. A gas purification method for 3D printing, wherein, include: Provide a target space in which printing materials for 3D printing are arranged; A photocatalyst is arranged in the target space; A predetermined wavelength of light is projected onto the photocatalyst to excite the photocatalyst; and To input and / or generate ozone at a predetermined concentration in the target space. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The inputting and / or generating ozone at a predetermined concentration in the target space includes: Ozone is obtained by using light to break down oxygen in the target space; or Ozone is obtained by using an electric current to decompose oxygen in the target space; or Ozone is supplied to the target space using an ozone supply device. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Also includes: A predetermined concentration of oxygen is introduced into the target space to increase the oxygen concentration in the target space. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing a predetermined concentration of oxygen into the target space includes: introducing oxygen into the target space such that within 1m of the photocatalyst... 3 or 3m 3 The average oxygen concentration in the space is 30%–45%. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... Introducing a predetermined concentration of oxygen into the target space includes: using an oxygen supply device to output oxygen of a predetermined concentration to the target space, wherein the predetermined concentration is 30% to 90%. The gas purification method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein... The concentrations of oxygen and ozone introduced into the target space are configured such that the concentrations of the target gas and ozone in at least a portion of the target space are both 0–0.060 mg / m³. 3 Preferred dosage: 0–0.010 mg / m³ 3 . A 3D printing system, wherein, The system includes a 3D printing device and a gas purification device, wherein the gas purification device is arranged in a target space associated with the printing material of the 3D printing device, and the gas purification device includes: Photocatalyst unit, including photocatalyst; A light source assembly configured to project light of a predetermined wavelength onto the photocatalyst; and An ozone supply device configured to introduce ozone into the target space or generate ozone in the target space.
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