Binder jet type 3D printer

Abstract

The present invention relates to a binder jet type 3D printer comprising: a base frame; a transfer part provided to be movable along the base frame; a stage provided on the base frame so as to manufacture a product; a powder supply part provided on the transfer part so as to supply powder to the stage; and a flattening roller provided on one side of the powder supply part in the transfer part so as to flatten the powder supplied to the stage, wherein the base frame includes a powder recovery part having, at the center thereof, a recessed part in which the stage moves up and down and having one inclined end, and the flattening roller is driven up to the powder recovery part so that the powder is recovered in the powder recovery part.

Description

Binder jet 3D printer

[0001] The present invention relates to a binder jet type 3D printer, and in particular, to a binder jet type 3D printer that continuously performs powder flattening and powder recovery by having a base frame formed to a height equal to that of a stage and an integrated table with one end inclined.

[0002] Conventional binder jet 3D printers have the problem of an inefficient and time-consuming powder recovery process. In particular, a separate process is required to remove and recover residual powder in the product molding area, which leads to limitations such as reduced productivity and powder loss. Additionally, severe powder scattering occurs during the powder application and flattening processes, contaminating the inside of the printer and causing powder loss. Therefore, there is a need for a binder jet 3D printer that improves the efficiency of the flattening process and powder recovery.

[0003] In order to solve the problems of the conventional technology described above, one embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a binder jet type 3D printer that can improve powder recovery efficiency by transferring the position of the flattening roller from the area where the product is formed to the powder recovery space so that residual powder is recovered, thereby enabling continuous powder flattening and powder recovery.

[0004] A binder jet type 3D printer is provided, comprising: a base frame according to one embodiment of the present invention; a conveying unit movably provided along the base frame; a stage provided on the base frame for manufacturing a product; a powder supply unit provided on the conveying unit for supplying powder to the stage; and a flattening roller provided on one side of the powder supply unit in the conveying unit for flattening the powder supplied to the stage; wherein the base frame is provided with a groove in the center for the stage to move up and down and a powder recovery unit having one end inclined, and the flattening roller is driven to the powder recovery unit so that the powder is recovered to the powder recovery unit.

[0005] In one embodiment, the base frame may include: a table portion formed in a table shape having different steps to allow for powder supply, flattening, product molding, and powder recovery, with an opening provided in the center of the upper surface; an upper frame positioned below the table portion and connected to the lower surfaces of both ends of the table portion to fix the table portion; a guide frame positioned coupled to the upper part of the upper frame and positioned at a height adjacent to the upper end of the table portion; a guide rail positioned above the guide frame, with its lower end coupled to and fixed in a groove formed in the guide frame, and guiding the conveying portion in a horizontal direction (X); and a leg frame positioned vertically coupled to the lower end of the upper frame and spaced apart the upper frame by a certain height.

[0006] In one embodiment, the table portion may include: a top plate located at the top of the space where a product is formed on the stage, wherein the groove portion is formed in a rectangular shape in the center; the powder recovery portion having a side wall inclined downward from the top plate; and an outer wall formed by covering both sides of the top plate, the groove portion, the powder recovery portion, and the binder recovery portion to suppress scattering of powder discharged during the powder supply, flattening, and printing processes.

[0007] In one embodiment, the table portion may include: an air injection portion having a radially inclined surface formed around the groove portion, located on one side of the groove portion and coupled to the upper end of one of the outer walls, and injecting compressed air to transport powder scattered from the stage toward the groove portion; and a vacuum suction portion located on the other side of the groove portion and coupled to the upper end of one of the outer walls, and sucking in powder transported by the compressed air.

[0008] In one embodiment, the powder supply unit may include: a hopper having a lower structure that narrows as it goes downward, an internal space for filling with powder formed, and an opening at the bottom for delivering powder downward; a powder supply gear positioned at the bottom of the hopper, having a width (W) corresponding to the width of the opening of the hopper, and having a certain amount of powder fed into and discharged from the hopper into the space of the groove (S); and a pair of supply rollers positioned at the bottom of the powder supply gear, arranged coaxially with the powder supply gear, and provided as a pair to mesh with each other and rotate to apply powder.

[0009] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention can improve powder recovery efficiency by transferring the position of the flattening roller from the area where the product is formed to the powder recovery space to induce the recovery of residual powder, thereby enabling continuous powder flattening and powder recovery.

[0010] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention can improve the efficiency of powder recovery by providing an inclined surface so that powder is easily recovered from the space where the product is stacked.

[0011] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention can suppress powder scattering that occurs during flattening by spraying compressed air into an area where powder scattering occurs and simultaneously sucking it in with a vacuum when flattening is performed by a flattening roller after powder application.

[0012] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention has a space where a product is stacked and molded that can be raised and lowered, and by being combined with a base frame, the stacking height can be precisely adjusted, and at the same time, it can be stably fixed during powder supply, flattening, and printing operations, thereby improving the quality of the molded product.

[0013] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention can uniformly apply powder by having a pair of rollers interlock and rotate to discharge powder.

[0014] A binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention is equipped to adjust the rotational direction of a flattening roller, thereby increasing the adhesion between the stacked powders and improving the relative density of the powder.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a front view of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of the table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of the table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 4a is a perspective view showing another example of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a side view of a stage of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of a powder supply unit of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 6b is a side view of a powder supply unit of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a flattening roller of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a front perspective view of the flattening roller and (b) is a rear perspective view of the flattening roller.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted to clearly explain the present invention, and the same reference numerals have been used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0026] Hereinafter, a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a front view of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a binder jet type 3D printer (1) may include a base frame (100), a transfer unit (200), a stage (300), a powder supply unit (400), a flattening roller (500), and a printing unit (600).

[0029] The binder jet type 3D printer (1) is a 3D printer that forms a product by spraying a binder binder onto powder and layering it. It is a 3D printer that can simultaneously improve the efficiency of flattening work and powder recovery by having an integrated table with one end inclined that allows powder recovery according to the movement of the flattening roller.

[0030] The base frame (100) is made of a frame structure and can support a conveying unit (200), a powder supply unit (400), and a flattening roller (500) on its upper side. Additionally, the base frame (100) can support and fix a stage (300) on its lower side.

[0031] The base frame (100) may include a table section (110), an upper frame (120), a guide frame (130), a guide rail (140), and a leg frame (150).

[0032] The table section (110) may be provided in a table shape having different step heights. In this case, the table section (110) may be provided as an integrated table so that operations such as powder supply, flattening, product molding, and powder recovery can be performed. Additionally, the table section (110) may be provided with the height of the space where the product is molded on the stage (300) as the highest height. The table section (110) may be provided with a groove section (112) in the center through which the stage (300) moves up and down. Additionally, the table section (110) may include a powder recovery section with one end provided at an angle. By doing so, the table section (110) can easily recover powder.

[0033] The upper frame (120) is positioned at the bottom of the table section (110) and can be fixed by connecting to the lower surfaces of both ends of the table section (110). Additionally, the upper frame (120) can be positioned on each of the four sides of a square to form a rectangle. At this time, the upper frame (120) can form an internal space. Here, the width and length of the formed internal space can be provided based on the width and length of the table section (110). Additionally, the upper frame (120) can be fixed by connecting to both ends of the table section (110) in the horizontal direction (X) and the vertical direction (Z) perpendicular to the horizontal direction (X).

[0034] The guide frame (130) can be coupled and positioned on the upper part of the upper frame (120). At this time, the guide frame (130) can be provided so that the transfer unit (200) is positioned at a height adjacent to the top of the table unit (110). Additionally, the guide frame (130) is provided with a groove in the center in the horizontal direction (X) to fix the lower part of the guide rail (140).

[0035] The guide rail (140) is located on the upper part of the guide frame (130) and can be fixed by connecting its lower part to a groove formed in the guide frame (130). Additionally, the guide rail (140) is connected to the transfer unit (200) and can guide the transfer unit (200) in the horizontal direction (X).

[0036] The leg frame (150) can be vertically connected to and positioned at the bottom of the upper frame (120). Additionally, the leg frame (150) can be spaced apart from the upper frame (120) by a certain height. Furthermore, multiple leg frames (150) may be provided to support the upper frame (120).

[0037] The transfer unit (200) is positioned on the upper surface of the base frame (100) and can move in a horizontal direction (x) along the guide rail (140). Additionally, the transfer unit (200) can sequentially position and fix the powder supply unit (400), the flattening roller (500), and the printing unit (600) on the upper surface. By doing so, the transfer unit (200) can transfer the powder supply unit (400), the flattening roller (500), and the printing unit (600) to the stage (300). Furthermore, the transfer unit (200) may have three openings, respectively, at the lower portions of the powder supply unit (400), the flattening roller (500), and the printing unit (600).

[0038] For example, when the transfer unit (200) moves in the horizontal direction (X), the powder supply unit (400) is positioned on the upper part of the stage (300), i.e., on the upper part of the groove (112), so that powder can be supplied to the stage (300). Next, the transfer unit (200) can position the flattening roller (500) on the upper part of the stage (300), i.e., on the upper part of the groove (112), so that the powder stacked on the stage (300) is pressed to perform a flattening process. Next, the transfer unit (200) can position the printing unit (600) on the upper part of the stage (300), i.e., on the upper part of the groove (112), so that a binder is sprayed by the head of the printing unit (600) to form a binder pattern of a specific shape. Next, the transfer unit (200) can return to its original position and move repeatedly to perform the binder jet type printing process as described above.

[0039] The transfer unit (200) may include a transfer plate (210), a guide plate (220), and a guide block (230).

[0040] The transfer plate (210) may be placed on the upper part of the base frame (100). Additionally, the transfer plate (210) may be provided in a plate-like shape with an open center and side walls formed at both ends of the bottom surface. Furthermore, the transfer plate (210) may have a powder supply unit (400), a flattening roller (500), and a printing unit (600) mounted on its upper surface. In addition, the transfer plate (210) may have an opening (210-1) below the flattening roller (500). Additionally, the transfer plate (210) may have an opening (not shown) below the powder supply unit (400) and the printing unit (600).

[0041] The guide plate (220) is coupled to the side wall of the transfer plate (210) and can be positioned on the upper part of the guide rail (131) of the base frame (100). Additionally, the guide plate (220) can be provided in an L-shape.

[0042] The guide block (230) can be coupled to the lower surface of the guide plate (220). Additionally, the guide block (230) can move in a horizontal direction (x) along the guide rail (140). For example, the guide block and the guide rail (140) may be LM guides.

[0043] The stage (300) is provided with a space where a product is manufactured, is located at the bottom of the base frame (100), and can be connected to the groove (112). At this time, the stage (300) can be provided so that a series of process operations, including powder supply, flattening, printing, and recovery, are performed through the groove (112). Additionally, the stage (300) can be provided with a space for shaping the desired product. For example, the stage (300) can provide a space where powder supply and flattening operations are performed by a powder supply unit (400) and a flattening roller (500).

[0044] The powder supply unit (400) is mounted on the conveying unit (200) and transported in a horizontal direction (X) to be positioned on the upper part of the groove (112). At this time, the powder supply unit (400) can uniformly apply powder to the stage (300).

[0045] The flattening roller (500) is mounted on the upper surface of the conveying unit (200) and can be positioned in front of the powder supply unit (400) and behind the printing unit (600). At this time, the flattening roller (500) can be transported in a horizontal direction (X) by the conveying unit (200) and positioned on the upper part of the stage (300). In addition, after powder is supplied to the stage (300) by the powder supply unit (400), the flattening roller (500) can flatten the stacked powder by pressing it while returning to its original position by the conveying unit (200). Furthermore, the flattening roller (500) can move in a horizontal direction (X) and guide the powder from the groove (112) of the table unit (110) toward the powder recovery unit (113).

[0046] In this way, the binder jet type 3D printer (1) can improve powder recovery efficiency by transferring the position of the flattening roller from the area where the product is formed to the powder recovery space so that the remaining powder is recovered, thereby enabling continuous powder flattening and powder recovery.

[0047] The printing unit (600) is mounted on the upper surface of the transfer unit (200) and can be positioned in front of the flattening roller (500). At this time, the printing unit (600) can form a binder pattern of a specific shape by spraying a binder.

[0048] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, the table section (110) may include a top plate (111), a powder recovery section (113), a binder recovery section (114), and an outer wall (115).

[0050] The top plate (111) may be positioned at the top of the space where the product is formed on the stage (300). At this time, the position of the top plate (111) may be formed corresponding to the height of the space where the product is formed on the stage (300). That is, the height of the top plate (111) may be determined based on the height (a) at which the stage (300) moves up and down. Additionally, the top plate (111) may be positioned at the uppermost center of the table portion (110) and may be provided as a flat plate. Furthermore, the top plate (111) may be provided with a groove portion (112) in the center.

[0051] The groove (112) may be formed as a rectangular opening in the center of the top plate (111). At this time, the groove (112) may be connected to one end of the stage (300). By doing so, the groove (112) may be provided so that the powder supply unit (400), the flattening roller (500), and the printing unit (600) can access the structure being stacked inside the stage (300).

[0052] The powder recovery unit (113) may be connected to one side of the top plate (111). Additionally, the powder recovery unit (113) may have a side wall inclined downward from the top plate (111).

[0053] At this time, the powder recovery unit (113) may include a first step surface (113-1), a recovered powder discharge port (113-2), and a first slope (113-3).

[0054] The first step surface (113-1) may be provided at the lowest height of the table portion (110). At this time, the first step surface (113-1) may be provided at a predetermined height difference from the height of the top plate (111) to promote powder recovery by gravity.

[0055] The recovered powder discharge port (113-2) may be provided as an opening at the bottom of the first stepped surface (113-1). At this time, the edge of the recovered powder discharge port (113-2) may be provided in a shape that protrudes downward.

[0056] The first slope (113-3) can connect the top plate (111) and the first stepped surface (113-1). At this time, the first slope (113-3) may be provided with an inclined side wall structured to descend from the top plate (111) to the first stepped surface (113-1). By doing so, the first slope (113-3) can facilitate the recovery of powder falling from the top plate (111) by the flattening roller (500).

[0057] A binder recovery unit (114) may be provided by being positioned on the other side of the top plate (111). Additionally, the binder recovery unit (114) may be provided at a height lower than the height of the top plate (111) and may have a second stepped surface (114-1). Here, the second stepped surface (114-1) may be formed as a flat bottom surface. Accordingly, the binder recovery unit (114) may be provided with a box-shaped recovery container with an open top to recover binder discharged from the printer head of the printing unit (600).

[0058] The outer wall (115) may be provided with a structure that covers both sides of the top plate (111), the powder recovery section (113), and the binder recovery section (114). Additionally, the outer wall (115) may form the outer wall of the table section (110). By doing so, the outer wall (115) can prevent powder discharged during the powder supply, flattening, and printing processes from scattering.

[0059] In this way, the binder jet type 3D printer (1) can improve the efficiency of powder recovery by providing an inclined surface so that powder is easily recovered from the space where the product is stacked.

[0060] FIG. 4a is a perspective view showing another example of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a table portion of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the table section (110) may have a radially inclined surface formed around the groove section (112). At this time, the table section (110) may have a first slope (113-3) formed from the groove section (112) toward the direction where the powder recovery section (113) is located. Additionally, the table section (110) may have a second slope (114-2) formed from the groove section (112) toward the direction where the binder recovery section (114) is located. Furthermore, the table section (110) may have a third slope (116) and a fourth slope (117) formed from the groove section (112) toward the outer walls (115) located on both sides.

[0062] At this time, the table section (110) may include a powder recovery section (113), a binder recovery section (114), an outer wall (115), a third slope (116), a fourth slope (117), an air injection section (118), and a vacuum suction section (119).

[0063] The groove (112) is located at the uppermost center of the table section (110) and can be formed on the upper part of the space where a product is formed on the stage (300). At this time, the position of the groove (112) can be determined based on the height (a) at which the stage (300) moves up and down. Additionally, the groove (112) can be formed as a rectangular opening. Furthermore, the groove (112) can be connected by being coupled with the upper part of the stage (300). By doing so, the groove (112) can be provided so that the powder supply section (400), the flattening roller (500), and the printing section (600) can access the product being formed and stacked inside the stage (300).

[0064] The powder recovery unit (113) may be provided connected to one side of the groove unit (112). At this time, the powder recovery unit (113) may include a first stepped surface (113-1), a recovered powder discharge port (113-2), and a first slope (113-3).

[0065] The first slope (113-3) can connect the groove (112) and the first step surface (113-1). At this time, the first slope (113-3) can be formed as an inclined side wall structured to descend from the groove (112) to the powder recovery section (113). By doing so, the first slope (113-3) can facilitate the recovery of powder scattered to one side of the groove (112) by the flattening roller (500).

[0066] A binder recovery section (114) may be provided to the left of the groove section (112). Additionally, the binder recovery section (114) may be provided at a height lower than that of the groove section (112) and may have a second stepped surface (114-1). Here, the second stepped surface (114-1) may be formed as a flat bottom surface. Accordingly, the binder recovery section (114) may be configured to have a box-shaped recovery container with an open top to recover binder discharged from the printer head. Furthermore, the binder recovery section (114) may have a second slope (114-2) formed as an inclined side wall structured to descend from the groove section (112) to the second stepped surface (114-1). Accordingly, the second slope (114-2) can recover powder or binder scattered from the groove section (112) to the other side.

[0067] The outer wall (115) is provided as a pair in a structure covering both sides of the groove (112), powder recovery section (113), and binder recovery section (114). Additionally, the outer wall (115) can form the outer wall of the table section (110). By doing so, the outer wall (115) can prevent powder and binder discharged during the powder supply, flattening, and printing processes from scattering.

[0068] The third slope (116) may be provided as an inclined side wall structured to descend from the groove (112) to an outer wall (115) located on one side. By doing so, the third slope (116) can recover powder or binder scattered from the groove (112) to the upper side.

[0069] The fourth slope (117) may be provided as an inclined side wall structured to descend from the groove (112) to an outer wall (115) located on the other side. By doing so, the fourth slope (117) can recover powder or binder scattered from the groove (112) to the lower side.

[0070] The air injection unit (118) is located on the other side of the groove (112) and can be coupled to the top of one of the outer walls (115). Specifically, the air injection unit (118) can be positioned in a straight line with the groove (112) and the fourth slope (117) and coupled to the top of one of the outer walls (115). Additionally, the air injection unit (118) can inject compressed air to transport powder scattered from the stage (300) toward the groove (112). Furthermore, the air injection unit (118) is equipped with a nozzle that injects compressed air and can be connected to a compressed air generating device located at the bottom of the upper frame (120).

[0071] The vacuum suction unit (119) is located on one side of the groove and is coupled to the top of one of the outer walls, and can suck up powder conveyed by the compressed air. Specifically, the vacuum suction unit (119) can be positioned in a straight line with the groove (112) and the third slope (116) and coupled to the top of one of the outer walls (115). At this time, the vacuum suction unit (119) can suck up powder scattered from the groove (112) by vacuum at the same time as the air injection unit (118) sprays compressed air.

[0072] In this way, when the binder jet type 3D printer (1) performs flattening by a flattening roller after applying powder, it can suppress powder scattering that occurs during flattening by spraying compressed air into the area where powder scattering occurs and simultaneously sucking it in with a vacuum.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a side view of a stage of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, the stage (300) is provided with a space where a product is manufactured, is located at the bottom of the base frame (100), and can be connected to the groove (112). At this time, the stage (300) can be provided so that a series of process operations, including powder supply, flattening, printing, and recovery, are performed through the groove (112). Additionally, the stage (300) can be provided with a space for shaping the desired product. For example, the stage (300) can provide a space where powder supply and flattening operations are performed by a powder supply unit (400) and a flattening roller (500).

[0075] The stage (300) may include a fixed plate (310), a molding box (320), a molding plate (330), a leg (340), an installation plate (350), a driving motor (360), a lifting / lowering part (370), a reduction gear (380), and a bearing structure (390).

[0076] The fixed plate (310) is positioned at the top of the internal space formed by the base frame (100) so that both ends can be connected to the base frame (100). Specifically, the fixed plate (310) is positioned at the bottom of the upper frame (120) so that both ends can be connected to the lower surface of the upper frame (120). Additionally, the fixed plate (310) can support the components of the stage (300).

[0077] The molding box (320) can be mounted on the upper surface of the fixed plate (310). Additionally, the top of the molding box (320) can be joined to the corner that surrounds the groove (112) of the base frame (100). Furthermore, the molding box (320) can be provided in a box shape to form an internal space. Here, the internal space may be a space where a product is molded.

[0078] The molding plate (330) may be provided as the bottom surface of the molding box (320). Additionally, the molding plate (330) may be separated from the molding box (320).

[0079] The leg (340) can be mounted on the lower surface of the molding plate (330) and formed to a certain height. Additionally, the leg (340) can be provided in multiple numbers to support the load of the stage (300). Furthermore, the leg (340) can form a vertical (Z) path for lifting and lowering.

[0080] The installation plate (350) is located at the bottom of the leg (340) and can be combined with one end of a plurality of legs (340). Additionally, the installation plate (350) may have a circular opening formed therein.

[0081] The drive motor (360) is positioned at the bottom of the installation plate (350) and can be coupled by penetrating the installation plate (350). At this time, the drive motor (360) can be installed in a vertical direction (Z) such that the protruding drive shaft faces the molding plate (330). Additionally, the drive motor (360) can determine the direction of movement of the molding plate (330) according to the direction of rotation. Furthermore, the drive motor (360) can determine the lifting and lowering speed of the molding plate (330) according to the rotational speed.

[0082] The lifting / lowering unit (370) may be provided by being positioned in the lifting / lowering passage formed by the leg (340). At this time, the lifting / lowering unit (370) may connect the molding plate (330) and the driving motor (360). By doing so, the lifting / lowering unit (370) can raise and lower the molding plate (330) in the vertical direction (Z).

[0083] The lifting / lowering unit (370) may include a ball screw (371), a ball nut (372), a lifting / lowering plate (373), a guide bar (374), and a guide bush (375).

[0084] The ball screw (371) can be connected to the drive shaft of the drive motor (360) and to the molding plate (330) at one end. Accordingly, when the drive motor (360) operates, the drive shaft rotates, and the ball screw can rotate due to the rotational movement of the drive shaft.

[0085] The ball nut (372) can be combined with the ball screw (371). At this time, the ball nut (372) can be raised or lowered in the vertical direction (Z) based on the rotational direction of the ball screw (371). Additionally, the ball nut (372) can be moved by the height of the molding box (320).

[0086] The lifting / lowering plate (373) may be provided by being coupled to the outer surface of the ball nut (372). At this time, the lifting / lowering plate (373) may have an opening through which the ball screw (371) and the ball nut (372) can be inserted. By doing so, the lifting / lowering plate (373) can move together with the movement of the ball nut (372).

[0087] A plurality of guide bars (374) may be provided at regular intervals from the ball screw (371). Additionally, the lower end of the guide bar (374) may be vertically connected to the upper surface of the lifting / lowering plate (373). At this time, the upper end of the guide bar (374) may pass through the fixed plate (310) and be connected to the lower surface of the molding plate (330). Furthermore, the guide bar (374) may guide the lifting / lowering movement path of the ball nut (372) and the lifting / lowering plate (373).

[0088] The guide bush (375) can be mounted on each guide bar (374). Additionally, the upper end of the guide bush (375) can be connected to the lower end of the fixed plate (310). By doing so, the guide bush (375) can align and support the guide bar (374).

[0089] The reduction gear (380) is positioned at one end of the ball screw (371) and can be positioned at the top of the drive motor (360). Additionally, the reduction gear (380) can be configured to at least partially surround the outer surface of the ball screw (371). By doing so, the reduction gear (380) can efficiently transmit power between the ball screw (371) and the drive motor (360).

[0090] The bearing structure (390) is positioned on the upper part of the reduction gear (380) and can be positioned on the lower part of the lifting / lowering plate (373). At this time, the bearing structure (390) can substantially reduce the friction generated during the rotation of the ball screw (371) and simultaneously stably support the ball screw (371). By doing so, the bearing structure (390) can improve the rotational efficiency of the ball screw (330) and enhance the overall operational stability of the device.

[0091] In this way, the binder jet type 3D printer (1) can raise and lower the space where the product is stacked and molded, and by combining with the base frame, the stacking height can be precisely adjusted, and at the same time, it can be stably fixed during powder supply, flattening, and printing operations, thereby improving the quality of the molded product.

[0092] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of a powder supply unit of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6b is a side view of a powder supply unit of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, the powder supply unit (400) may include a hopper (410) and a supply roller unit (420).

[0094] The hopper (410) is provided with a lower structure that narrows toward the bottom, and an internal space filled with powder can be formed. Additionally, the hopper (410) is provided with a cover at the top to close the top, thereby preventing powder from scattering and blocking the entry of foreign substances. Furthermore, the hopper (410) is provided with an opening at the bottom to transfer powder to the supply roller section (420).

[0095] The supply roller section (420) may include a supply roller outer wall (421), a powder supply gear (422), a first gear (422-1), a first bracket (423), a supply roller (424), a second gear (424-2), a third gear (424-3), a fifth gear (426), a fourth gear (425), a supply roller motor (427), and a supply roller motor fixing box (428).

[0096] The supply roller outer wall (421) is located on the top plate of the conveying unit (200) and can be fixed vertically. At this time, the supply roller outer wall (421) may be provided with four side walls to have an internal space in the shape of a cuboid. Additionally, the supply roller outer wall (421) may be formed with the upper and lower ends open. Furthermore, the upper end of the supply roller outer wall (421) may be connected to the discharge part of the hopper (410), and the lower end may be connected to the edge of the opening of the conveying unit (200). Accordingly, the supply roller outer wall (421) may be provided with a powder supply gear (422) and a supply roller (424) inside.

[0097] The powder supply gear (422) may be positioned on the inner upper side of the outer wall (421) of the supply roller. Additionally, the powder supply gear (422) may be provided as a spur gear whose width (W) corresponds to the width of the opening of the hopper. Furthermore, the powder supply gear (422) can process powder introduced from the hopper (410). At this time, the powder supply gear (422) can flow the powder within the hopper (410). In addition, the powder supply gear (422) can introduce a certain amount of powder into the space of the groove (S) formed therein and simultaneously discharge it.

[0098] The first gear (422-1) can be positioned at one end of the powder supply gear (422). At this time, the first gear (422-1) can rotate the powder supply gear (422).

[0099] The first bracket (423) is positioned on the inner upper part of the supply roller outer wall (421) and can be coupled with the supply roller outer wall (421). Additionally, the first bracket (423) forms a semi-cylindrical inner curved surface, and a powder supply gear (422) can be positioned in the formed semi-cylindrical inner space. Furthermore, the first bracket (423) is provided with a slit in the lower center so that powder supplied from the powder supply gear (422) can be discharged to the supply roller (424) located at the bottom. Additionally, the first bracket (423) can separate the powder supply gear (422) from the conveying unit (200) by a certain height.

[0100] The supply roller (424) may be positioned below the powder supply gear (422) and provided as a pair. At this time, the supply roller (424) may be positioned coaxially with the powder supply gear (422). Additionally, the supply roller (424) rotates in a pair while meshing with each other, thereby uniformly applying the powder discharged from the powder supply gear (422). At this time, the supply roller (424) may be equipped with a roller shaft fixing pin (424-1) that is connected to the outer wall (421) of the supply roller to fix its position.

[0101] The second gear (424-2) may be provided by being positioned at one end of the supply roller (424). At this time, the second gear (424-2) may be provided as a spur gear. Additionally, the second gear (424-2) may be rotated by meshing with the fifth gear (426).

[0102] The third gear (424-3) may be provided by being positioned at the opposite end of the supply roller (424) where the second gear (424-2) is positioned. At this time, the third gear (424-3) may be provided as a bevel gear.

[0103] The fourth gear (425) is located on the side of the outer wall (421) of the supply roller and can be positioned perpendicular to the axis of the third gear (424-3). Additionally, the fourth gear (425) can be connected to the protruding shaft of the supply roller motor (427). Furthermore, the fourth gear (425) can be a bevel gear that interlocks with the third gear (424-3) to rotate the supply roller (424).

[0104] The fifth gear (426) can be positioned between the first gear (422-1) and the second gear (424-2). By doing so, the fifth gear (426) rotates according to the rotation of the second gear (424-2) and can rotate the first gear (422-1).

[0105] The supply roller motor (427) is located above the fourth gear (425) and can be positioned so that the protruding shaft of the motor faces the fourth gear (425). At this time, when the supply roller motor (427) is operated, power is transmitted to rotate the fourth gear (425).

[0106] The supply roller motor fixing box (428) may be positioned above the transfer unit (200) and below the supply roller motor (427), and may be provided in a box shape. At this time, the roller motor fixing box (428) may be spaced apart from the supply roller motor (427) by a certain height from the transfer unit (200). Additionally, the supply roller motor fixing box (428) may have an opening in the top plate so that the shaft of the supply roller motor (427) can pass through and be inserted. Furthermore, the supply roller motor fixing box (428) may position the third gear (424-3) and the fourth gear (425) inside the formed internal space.

[0107] In this way, the binder jet type 3D printer (1) can apply powder uniformly by having a pair of rollers interlock and rotate to discharge the powder.

[0108] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a flattening roller of a binder jet type 3D printer according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a front perspective view of the flattening roller and (b) is a rear perspective view of the flattening roller.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 7, the flattening roller (500) may include a pressure roller section (510) and a pressure roller lift section (520).

[0110] The pressure roller section (510) may be located above the opening of the conveying section (200). Additionally, the pressure roller section (510) may be located on the side of the pressure roller lift section (520), and one side may be connected to the pressure roller lift section (520). At this time, the pressure roller section (510) enters the stage (300) through the opening and can flatten the stacked powder inside the stage (300).

[0111] The pressure roller section (510) may include a pressure roller (511), a first fixed plate (512), a second fixed plate (513), a third fixed plate (514), a second bracket (515), a pressure roller drive motor (516), a fourth fixed plate (517), a sixth-1st gear (518-1), a sixth-2nd gear (518-2), and a drive belt (519).

[0112] The pressure roller (511) may be positioned above the opening of the transfer section (200). At this time, if the pressure roller (511) is rotated in the direction of rotation of the pressure roller (511) in the direction of process progress, that is, in the opposite direction to the direction of progress of the pressure roller (511), the adhesion force between the stacked powders can be increased, and the relative density of the powder can be improved. In addition, the pressure roller (511) can prevent scattering of powder when the binder is sprayed by the printing section (600).

[0113] The first fixing plate (512) may be positioned above the pressure roller (511) and formed to cover a portion of the upper surface and side of the pressure roller (511). Additionally, the first fixing plate (512) may have grooves into which pins from both ends of the pressure roller (511) can be inserted and fixed.

[0114] The second fixing plate (513) can be connected by being positioned vertically with respect to the upper surface of the first fixing plate (512). At this time, the second fixing plate (513) may be provided with an opening at its upper end.

[0115] The third fixed plate (514) can be coupled to the pressure roller (511) at its front end and to the pressure roller lift unit (520) at its rear end. Accordingly, the third fixed plate (514) can move up and down according to the operation of the pressure roller lift unit (520).

[0116] The second bracket (515) may be positioned on the upper surface of the first fixing plate (512) and on the side of the second fixing plate (513). At this time, the second bracket (515) can fix the first fixing plate (512) and the second fixing plate (513) which is positioned vertically with respect to the first fixing plate (512).

[0117] The pressure roller drive motor (516) is located on the upper part of the first fixed plate (512) and can be fixed by being coupled to the side of the second fixed plate (513). Additionally, the pressure roller drive motor (516) may be positioned such that its protruding shaft penetrates the opening of the second fixed plate (513). Furthermore, the pressure roller drive motor (516) can adjust the rotation direction of the pressure roller (511). At this time, when the pressure roller (511) rotates in the opposite direction to the transfer direction of the flattening roller (500) by the transfer unit (200) during the flattening process, the pressure roller drive motor (516) can increase the adhesion force between the stacked powders and improve the relative density of the powder.

[0118] The fourth fixing plate (517) may be provided by being coupled to the side of the second fixing plate (513). At this time, the fourth fixing plate (517) can stably fix the pressure roller drive motor (516).

[0119] The 6-1 gear (518-1) may be provided connected to a protruding shaft at one end of the pressure roller drive motor (516). At this time, the 6-1 gear (518-1) may rotate according to the rotation direction of the pressure roller drive motor (516).

[0120] The 6-2 gear (518-2) may be provided connected to the shaft of one end of the pressure roller (511). At this time, the 6-2 gear (518-2) may be located below the 6-1 gear (518-1) on a vertical line. Additionally, the 6-2 gear (518-2) may rotate according to the rotation of the 6-1 gear (518-1) and rotate the pressure roller (511).

[0121] The drive belt (519) can connect the 6-1 gear (518-1) and the 6-2 gear (518-2). At this time, when the pressure roller drive motor (516) is operated, the drive belt (519) can rotate the 6-2 gear (518-2) according to the rotation of the 6-1 gear (518-1).

[0122] The pressure roller lift section (520) is located on one side of the pressure roller section (510) and can be provided upright on the conveying section (200). Additionally, the pressure roller lift section (520) is connected to the pressure roller section (510) and arranged so that the pressure roller section (510) can be raised and lowered. Accordingly, the pressure roller lift section (520) can adjust the height of the pressure roller section (510) according to the height of the powder stacked on the stage (300).

[0123] The pressure roller lift section (520) may include a lift fixing plate (521), a lift guide rail (522), a lift table (523), a hand wheel (524), and a locking section (525).

[0124] The lift fixing plate (521) can be positioned close to the opening of the transfer section (200). Additionally, the lift fixing plate (521) can be positioned upright on the transfer section (200).

[0125] The lift guide rail (522) may be provided connected to the inner surface of the lift fixing plate (521). At this time, the lift guide rail (522) may be formed in an upright position.

[0126] The lift table (523) is connected to the lift guide rail (522) and can be raised and lowered. Here, the lift guide rail (522) and the lift table (523) may be actuators such as LM guides. At this time, the lift table (523) can raise and lower the connected pressure roller part (510).

[0127] The handwheel (524) is positioned on the upper part of the lift guide rail (522) and can be connected to the lift guide rail (522). Additionally, the handwheel (524) can adjust the height of the lift table (523). For example, the handwheel (524) can raise and lower the lift table (523) according to the direction of rotation. As another example, the handwheel (524) can position the pressure roller part (510) at a desired position.

[0128] The locking part (525) may be provided on the side of the lift guide rail (522). Additionally, the locking part (525) can fix the lift table (523) in a desired position.

[0129] In this way, the binder jet type 3D printer (1) is equipped to adjust the rotation direction of the flattening roller, thereby increasing the adhesion between the stacked powders and improving the relative density of the powder.

[0130] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification. Those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present invention may easily propose other embodiments within the scope of the same concept by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components, and such are also to be considered to fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention.

Claims

1. Base frame; A transfer unit configured to be movable along the base frame; A stage provided on the above base frame for manufacturing a product; A powder supply unit provided in the above-mentioned transfer unit for supplying powder to the above-mentioned stage; and A flattening roller provided on one side of the powder supply unit in the above transfer unit for flattening the powder supplied to the stage; comprising The base frame is provided with a groove in the center through which the stage moves up and down, and includes a powder recovery unit having one end inclined. The flattening roller is driven to the powder recovery unit so that the powder is recovered to the powder recovery unit, and The above base frame is, A table section formed in a table shape having different steps to enable powder supply, leveling, product molding, and powder recovery operations, and having an opening in the center of the upper surface; An upper frame positioned below the table portion and connected to the lower surfaces of both ends of the table portion to fix the table portion; A guide frame coupled to and positioned on the upper part of the upper frame and configured to be located at a height adjacent to the top of the table portion; A guide rail positioned on the upper part of the guide frame, with its lower part coupled and fixed to a groove formed in the guide frame, and guiding the transfer unit in the horizontal direction (X); and A leg frame that is vertically coupled and positioned at the bottom of the upper frame and separates the upper frame by a certain height; is included. The above table section is, A top plate located at the top of the space where a product is formed on the above stage, wherein the groove is formed in a rectangular shape in the center; The powder recovery unit having a side wall inclined downward from the upper plate; A binder recovery unit disposed on the other side of the above-mentioned top plate; and An outer wall forming an outer wall by being structured to cover both sides of the top plate, the groove, the powder recovery section, and the binder recovery section to suppress scattering of powder discharged during the powder supply, flattening, and printing processes; wherein The powder recovery unit is provided in the table portion and includes a first stepped surface provided at a predetermined height difference from the height of the top plate, a recovered powder discharge port provided as an opening at the bottom of the first stepped surface, and a first slope provided as an inclined side wall with a descending structure from the top plate to the first stepped surface by connecting the top plate and the first stepped surface. A binder jet type 3D printer characterized in that the binder recovery unit is configured in the shape of a box with an open top, having a second stepped surface having a height lower than the height of the top plate, so as to be able to recover binder discharged from the printer head of the printing unit.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above table section is, An air injection unit located on one side of the above-mentioned groove, coupled to the upper end of one of the above-mentioned outer walls, and injecting compressed air to transport powder scattered from the stage toward the direction of the above-mentioned groove; and A vacuum suction part located on the other side of the above-mentioned groove, coupled to the upper end of one of the above-mentioned outer walls, and sucking in powder conveyed by the compressed air; Includes, A binder jet type 3D printer in which inclined surfaces are formed radially around the above-mentioned groove.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above powder supply unit is, A hopper having a lower structure that narrows toward the bottom, an internal space filled with powder formed, and an opening at the bottom to transfer powder downward; A powder supply gear disposed at the lower part of the hopper, equipped with a spur gear whose width (W) corresponds to the width of the opening of the hopper, and wherein a certain amount of powder is fed into and discharged from the hopper into the space of its groove (S); and A pair of supply roller sections located below the powder supply gear, arranged coaxially with the powder supply gear, and provided as a pair to mesh and rotate with each other to apply powder; A binder jet type 3D printer including

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