Device for removing support material from at least one 3D printed object

Abstract

A device for removing a support material from an at least one 3D printed object, comprising a housing (1), a tank (2), located inside the housing (1), suitable for storing a dissolving solution, a mesh basket, (3) positioned in the tank (2), configured to be submerged in the dissolving solution and to hold the at least one 3D printed object with the support material, a circulation module and a control module. The tank (2) is divided into a working section (16), suitable for accommodating the basket (3), and a circulation section (17), suitable for accommodating the circulation module. The mesh basket (3) comprises walls which are configured to allow a flow of a dissolving solution stream, and the mesh basket (3) is configured to be lifted in an upward direction above a surface of the dissolving solution by guiding means. The mesh basket (3) comprises a front wall (3a) of the mesh basket (3) which is configured to open along a vertical axis. It further comprises an inner mesh basket (6), where the mesh basket (3) is suitable for accommodating the inner mesh basket (6).

Description

[0001] Device for removing support material from at least one 3D printed object

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The invention belongs to a field of devices designed for removing a support material from an at least one 3D printed object.

[0004] Prior art

[0005] The document US9878498B2 discloses a method and a device for removing chemically soluble support material from objects printed using 3D printing technology. The device includes a tank with a cleaning section and a fluid handling section, with the liquid level positioned below the upper edge. A parts basket, approximately rectangular in shape, has four impermeable walls, a perforated bottom, and an openable lid located below the liquid level in the tank. A pump in the fluid handling section directs a stream of liquid into the basket at a downward angle and toward its center, inducing fluid circulation inside the basket and continuous outflow through the perforated bottom.

[0006] The Krumm Tech device features front-opening doors, requiring additional space, which can be a limitation in compact environments. There is also a risk of condensate dripping onto a floor, increasing the chance of slipping. Additionally, contact with a hot surface of the doors during opening may cause burns, posing a safety hazard.

[0007] The Oryx and Xioneer devices typically feature top-opening tanks. Increasing a size of such units positions a cover beyond an operator's reach, making access challenging. The Gemini and Postprocess devices feature a lifting basket, with the first lacking a front wall and the second having only a tray without side walls.

[0008] Devices developed on the market are designed for removing support material from 3D printed objects. In 3D printing technology, the support material serves as a stabilizing function for model elements that have no direct contact with a printing base or extend beyond a main structure. After printing is complete, this material is removed mechanically, chemically, or thermally, depending on its properties. Known devices for removing support material are often large in size, and most of them feature a topopening basket. As the size of the device increases, its operation becomes less ergonomic, which may create difficulties for operators.

[0009] Some solutions eliminate a front wall of a basket or limit a structure to just a base, which increases the risk of losing small parts during cleaning. On the other hand, devices with a front-opening basket using hinged doors require more workspace and may cause water condensation on the hinged doors,negatively impacting workplace cleanliness. Additionally, an operator contact with hot water or steam can lead to burns and other injuries.

[0010] Subject-matter of the invention

[0011] The objective of the invention is to develop a device that ensures ergonomic operation and operator safety while enabling effective cleaning of a 3D printed object, regardless of its size. A further object of the invention is to minimize workspace requirements.

[0012] The invention provides a device for removing a support material from an at least one 3D printed object, comprising:

[0013] a housing,

[0014] a tank, located inside the housing, suitable for storing a dissolving solution, a mesh basket, positioned in the tank, configured to be submerged in the dissolving solution and to hold the at least one 3D printed object with the support material, a circulation module configured to ensure a circulation of the dissolving solution, a control module.

[0015] The tank is divided into a working section, suitable for accommodating the basket, and a circulation section, suitable for accommodating the circulation module. The mesh basket comprises walls which are configured to allow a flow of a dissolving solution stream, and the mesh basket is configured to be lifted in an upward direction above a surface of the dissolving solution by guiding means. The mesh basket comprises a front wall of the mesh basket which is configured to open along a vertical axis. It further comprises an inner mesh basket, where the mesh basket is suitable for accommodating the inner mesh basket, wherein walls of the inner mesh basket are configured to allow the flow of the dissolving solution stream.

[0016] Preferably, the mesh basket has a cuboid shape made of a frame and comprises the front wall (3a) of the mesh basket, two side walls of the mesh basket, a back wall of the mesh basket and a bottom wall of the mesh basket, wherein the mesh basket comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges.

[0017] In one preferable embodiment, the tank has a cuboid shape and comprises a front wall of the tank, two side walls of the tank, a back wall of the tank and a bottom wall of the tank.

[0018] The inner mesh basket has a cuboid shape made of a frame and comprises a front wall of the inner mesh basket, two side walls of the inner mesh basket, a back wall of the inner mesh basket and a bottom wall of the inner mesh basket, wherein the inner mesh basket comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges.Preferably, the front wall of the mesh basket is configured to open downward along the vertical axis. Preferably, the working section and the circulation section are separated by a perforated wall suitable for the flow of the dissolving solution stream.

[0019] The inner mesh basket occupies less than half of the volume of the mesh basket, more preferably occupies less than one-third of the volume of the mesh basket.

[0020] In one preferable embodiment, the mesh basket comprises an at least one handle at the top of the mesh basket, preferably comprises two handles arranged oppositely on two top edges of the mesh basket, wherein the at least one handle is positioned above the surface of the dissolving solution In one embodiment, the walls of the mesh basket have a first weave that prevents the at least one 3D printed object from passing through.

[0021] Preferably, the mesh basket comprises runners suitable for sliding the front wall of the mesh basket. The guiding means are at least two runners mounted inside the tank and at least two sliders, where runners are configured to allow the sliders to slide along their surface into a lifted position of the mesh basket, preferably the at least two runners are mounted on the side wall of the tank and the perforated wall and the at least two sliders are mounted on the side walls of the mesh basket, where the lifted position is when the mesh basket is lifted above the surface of the dissolving solution.

[0022] In one preferable embodiment, it comprises a basket lock for securing the mesh basket in the lifted position.

[0023] In one embodiment, the basket lock comprises an at least one bracket mounted on the side wall of the tank and an at least one lever mounted on the side wall of the mesh basket, wherein the at least one lever is suitable for locking onto the bracket.

[0024] Preferably, it comprises a counterweight configured to balance the mesh basket during lifting.

[0025] The walls of the inner mesh basket have a second weave that prevents 3D printed objects from passing through, wherein the second weave of the inner mesh basket has a higher density than or the same as the first weave of the mesh basket.

[0026] In one preferable embodiment, the inner mesh basket is removably attached at its top edges to top edges of the mesh basket.

[0027] In one embodiment, the circulation module comprises a drive module, a power transmission system and a turbine.Preferably, the turbine is positioned offset from a transverse axis of the tank, where the transverse axis of the tank extends along the back wall and the front wall of the tank.

[0028] In one preferable embodiment, it comprises a cover configured to close the device from the top. Preferably, it comprises an at least one heater configured to heat the dissolving solution.

[0029] It comprises a water level sensor for indicating an insufficient or excess amount of the dissolving solution.

[0030] Preferably, it comprises a heat sensor.

[0031] Advantageous effects of the invention

[0032] The subject of the invention improves ergonomics and safety of an operator's work, providing convenient and safe access to parts placed at working height, even in a case of large-sized elements from large-format printers. A mesh basket is raised above a surface of a solution so that the parts are at the operator's working level. The developed solution enables an innovative way of opening a basket door being a front wall of the mesh basket, which eliminates the risk of increasing dimensions of the device and its elements extending beyond an outline of a structure of the device. This prevents water from dripping onto a floor and minimizes the risk of burns resulting from contact with heated door surfaces.

[0033] The mesh basket with five walls - a bottom and four side walls - effectively prevents cleaned 3D printed objects from escaping outside its area and falling out, particularly during loading and unloading. An additional, inner mesh basket, being a smaller basket than the mesh basket, allows for simultaneous cleaning of both large and small printed objects which require different cleaning times. Thanks to a denser weave of the inner mesh basket's walls, placing small parts inside is more convenient, which increases the efficiency of a cleaning process.

[0034] Brief description of the drawings

[0035] The invention will be presented in more detail in a preferable embodiment, with reference to the enclosed drawings in which:

[0036] Fig. 1 - depicts a device for removing support material in an isometric view with a lifted mesh basket, Fig. 2 - depicts a detailed section of the device for removing support material, where a side wall of the mesh basket with a basket lock and sliders are visible,

[0037] Fig. 3 - depicts a cross-section of the device for removing support material, where a side wall of the mesh basket and a perforated wall are visible,Fig. 4 - depicts the basket with sliders, a basket lock and an inner mesh basket in an isometric view, Fig. 5 - depicts the device for removing support material in an isometric view with the mesh basket within a tank,

[0038] Fig. 6 - depicts a cross-section of the device for removing support material, where a front wall of the mesh basket is lowered,

[0039] Fig. 7 - shows the inner mesh basket in an isometric view,

[0040] Fig. 8 - depicts a cross section of the tank.

[0041] Detailed description of a preferable embodiment of the invention

[0042] The device for removing a support material from an at least one 3D printed object is shown in Fig. 1. The device comprises a housing 1, a tank 2 (shown in Fig. 2) located inside the housing 1, a mesh basket 3 positioned in the tank 2, an inner mesh basket 6, a circulation module configured to ensure a circulation of a dissolving solution and a control module. Components of the dissolving solution, temperature, and the circulation inside the tank 2 are factors which are significant in a support material removal process and cause the removal in a much faster time.

[0043] The housing 1 is visible in Fig. 1 and is preferably cuboid in shape. The housing 1 serves as a supporting structure and, in this embodiment, is made of stainless steel. A load-bearing capacity of the housing 1 is demonstrated by its ability to withstand a weight of the entire device, including the tank 2 with the dissolving solution, the mesh basket 3 with the at least one 3D printed object, the circulation module, and other components. During operation, the circulation module and a flow of a dissolving solution stream can generate vibrations and variable forces, so the housing 1 must be sufficiently rigid to prevent deformations and excessive transmission of vibrations to other elements. Since the device operates with chemicals and high temperatures, the housing 1 must be made of materials resistant to corrosion and the effects of aggressive substances.

[0044] The tank 2 is designed for storing the dissolving solution. It may have a cuboid shape in one embodiment, matching the shape of the housing 1. The tank 2 is watertight to prevent the dissolving solution from leaking. The tank 2 is made of materials resistant to corrosion and the effects of aggressive substances. In this embodiment, the dissolving solution comprises water and a concentrate. The concentrate may include sodium hydroxide, soluble salts or detergents. The support material gradually dissolves in the dissolving solution due to chemicals present in it and the temperature. The dissolving solution does not dissolve the 3D printed objects being main parts.The height of the dissolving solution is pre-determined and should be set to fully cover the 3D printed objects being cleaned, but it should not be too high to avoid spilling over the tank 2.

[0045] The tank 2 is divided into a working section 16 suitable for accommodating the mesh basket 3 and a circulation section 17 suitable for accommodating the circulation module. In this embodiment, both sections are positioned side by side. In other embodiments, they may be arranged one above the other, with the working section 16 on a top. The working section 16 and the circulation section 17 are depicted in Fig. 8.

[0046] In this embodiment, the tank 2 has the cuboid shape with five walls - two side walls 2b of the tank 2, a front wall 2a of the tank 2, a back wall 2c of the tank 2 and a bottom wall 2d of the tank 2. The walls of the tank 2 are shown in Fig. 1 and 2. Fig. 2 shows only one side wall 2b of the tank 2 due to the high level of detail in the drawing. However, it is easy to deduce that the second side wall 2b is positioned opposite the side wall 2b visible in Fig. 1. Fig. 8 discloses both side walls 2b of the tank 2. Inside edges of the tank 2 are rounded to ensure more efficient flow of the dissolving solution stream.

[0047] Preferably, in one embodiment, the device includes a drain valve located at the bottom wall 2d of the tank 2. The drain valve is suitable for an exchange of the dissolving solution through it. More specifically, the dissolving solution is discharged and then replenished with a new dissolving solution through the drain valve.

[0048] The mesh basket 3 comprises walls configured to allow the flow of the dissolving solution stream while preventing the loss of 3D printed objects. The mesh basket 3 in different embodiments may have different shapes and does not necessarily have to match the shape of the tank 2, as long as they are convenient for the operator to use. The mesh basket 3 is configured to be lifted in an upward direction above a surface of the dissolving solution using guiding means 5, which ensure smooth and controlled movement. This lifting mechanism facilitates easy removal of 3D printed objects after cleaning, or loading parts before cleaning. In this embodiment, the mesh basket 3 moves in the upward direction which is along a vertical axis of the device, allowing controlled lifting and immersion within the dissolving solution. The mesh basket 3 is lifted upward, meaning it is raised above the surface of the dissolving solution, in the direction opposite to a ground (the bottom wall 2d of the tank 2).

[0049] Lifting the mesh basket 3 brings it to a working level for the operator, providing easier access to an interior of the mesh basket 3. Lifting the mesh basket 3 above the dissolving solution enhances operator safety by minimizing direct contact with the dissolving solution, which may feature high temperatures or chemical agents. This feature reduces the risk of burns, chemical exposure, and accidental splashes. Additionally, it improves ergonomics by allowing operators to access cleaned parts more easily without the need to reach into the dissolving solution.The mesh basket 3 comprises the front wall 3a which is configured to face the operator. The front wall 3a is configured to open along the vertical axis. In this embodiment, the vertical axis corresponds to the vertical axis of the device, in particular the mesh basket 3. Such an opening along the vertical axis enhances the operator's safety by minimizing exposure to hot dissolving solution and chemical agents. This front wall 3a also prevents accidental spills and splashes, lowering the risk of burns or irritation. All elements of the device remain within a contour of the device. There are no protruding elements such as doors opening beyond the device's contour. Additionally, a vertical, sliding movement improves ergonomics by allowing operators to lift and retrieve parts.

[0050] The circulation module is configured to ensure a circulation of the dissolving solution. In this embodiment, the circulation module comprises a drive module 24 with an engine, a power transmission system, and a turbine 23. The power transmission system preferably has a claw coupling and a drive shaft. The turbine sets the dissolving solution in motion, preferably in a circulating flow. The circulation module in the working section 16 is depicted in Fig. 8.

[0051] In this embodiment, the drive module 24 is placed in such a way that the surface of the dissolving solution is on the power transmission system and the drive module is always above the surface of the dissolving solution and the turbine 23 is always submerged in the dissolving solution.

[0052] The turbine 23 is preferably in this embodiment not located at the center of the tank 2 but is slightly offset from the transverse axis of the tank 2 into the front wall 2a of the tank 2 or the back wall 2c of the tank 2 to direct the dissolving solution stream in a circulating motion. The transverse axis extends along the back wall 2c of the tank 2 and / or the front wall 2a of the tank 2. The dissolving solution stream from the turbine 23 passes through the walls of the mesh basket 3 and rinses the support material from the submerged 3D printed objects.

[0053] The direction and speed of the dissolving solution is given by the flow from the turbine 23. The dissolving solution flows along the front wall 2a of the tank 2 or back wall 2c of the tank 2, then turns around after meeting the opposite side wall 2b of the tank 2 and flows in the opposite direction along the back wall 2c of the tank 2 or front wall 2a of the tank 2 (different wall from an initial movement). Some of the dissolving solution then flows behind a perforated wall 4 into the circulation section 17 and then into the turbine and the cycle repeats, and some of it turns back in front of the perforated wall 4 and joins the dissolving solution stream ejected from the turbine 23. The dissolving solution moves in a closed circuit.

[0054] The control module is configured to regulate the dissolving solution's temperature, the dissolving solution's flow speed and set a cleaning duration within the device. Additionally, it may include user-configurable settings, allowing operators to adjust parameters based on a type of the support materialand cleaning requirements. The control module is preferably mounted in the device and may comprise a screen 19 to manually set parameters and operate the device.

[0055] The mesh basket 3 is configured to be submerged in the dissolving solution and to hold the 3D printed objects with the support material.

[0056] The device further comprises the inner mesh basket 6. The mesh basket 3 is suitable for accommodating the inner mesh basket 6. The inner mesh basket 6 features much smaller size than the mesh basket 3. Walls of the inner mesh basket 6 are configured to allow the flow of the dissolving solution stream and prevent cleaned parts, 3D printed objects, from falling out from the inner mesh basket 6. The inner mesh basket 6 ensures keeping of small 3D printed objects in one place, where placing them in the mesh basket 3, being a standard, larger basket, would cause the 3D printed objects to constantly move around the entire basket due to the circulation of the dissolving solution.

[0057] In one preferable embodiment, the inner mesh basket 6 occupies less than half of the volume of the mesh basket 3. The inner mesh basket 6 may come in different sizes, allowing it to accommodate 3D printed objects with small volumes or dimensions. In more preferable embodiment, the inner mesh basket 6 occupies less than one-third of the volume of the mesh basket 3.

[0058] A cleaning time for small 3D printed objects is significantly shorter than for larger 3D printed objects. During a cleaning process, the operator can stop the device, open it, remove the inner mesh basket 6, and then close the device, restarting the cleaning process for the larger 3D printed objects. This ensures simultaneous cleaning of parts of different sizes, which require different cleaning times.

[0059] In this embodiment, the working section 16 and the circulation section 17 are separated by the perforated wall 4 suitable for the flow of the dissolving solution stream. The perforated wall 4 comprises holes (perforations) that allow for the circulation of the dissolving solution which are shown in Fig. 3. In this embodiment, perforations are distributed around at least two runners 5, which are mounted on the perforated wall 4 and there are perforations (or a single large hole) positioned opposite the turbine, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0060] In this embodiment, the mesh basket 3 has a cuboid shape and comprises five walls - two side walls 3b, the front wall 3a, a back wall 3c and a bottom wall 3d. Each wall is suitable for allowing the flow of the dissolving solution stream. In one embodiment, the mesh basket 3 is constructed from a cuboid frame with twelve edges, and the spaces between the edges are filled with a mesh. The mesh basket 3 and its frame are shown in Fig. 1, 4 and 6. The mesh basket 3 comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges. Each top edge is adjusted to respective wall (front wall 3a, side walls 3b and back wall 3c) from the top, each bottom edge is adjusted to respective wall (front wall 3a, side walls 3band back wall 3c) from the bottom. Each side edge is positioned between two walls, such that one side edge is between the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 and the side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3, while the other side edge is between the side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3 and the back wall 3c of the mesh basket 3.

[0061] In this embodiment, the mesh basket 3 does not comprise a top wall which facilitates a loading of 3D printed objects and top edges of the mesh basket 3 (top edges of side walls 3b, front wall 3a and back wall 3c of the mesh basket 3) always remain above the surface of the dissolving solution to prevent the operator's contact with the dissolving solution.

[0062] In one embodiment, the mesh basket 3 comprises an at least one handle 11 at the top of the mesh basket 3. The at least one handle 11 is mounted on the top edge of the mesh basket 3. In one embodiment, there is one handle 11 mounted on the top edge of the front wall 3a. In another embodiment, there are two handles 11 arranged oppositely on two top edges of two side walls 3b of the mesh basket 3 as it is shown in Fig. 1, 3 and 4 or there are two handles 11 arranged on the top edge of the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3. The at least one handle 11 prevents the operator from coming into contact with the dissolving solution. Preferably, the handle 11 is attached to the mesh basket 3 using fasteners or permanently secured, for example, by welding.

[0063] In this application, two positions should be distinguished. The first position is a lifted position, in which the mesh basket 3 is lifted along the vertical axis, in the upward direction, above the surface of the dissolving solution. The second position is a resting position, where the mesh basket 3 remains inside the tank 2 and is not lifted.

[0064] In both the raised and resting positions, the at least one handle 11 of the mesh basket 3 remains above the surface of the dissolving solution, preventing the operator from coming into contact with the dissolving solution. The at least one handle 11 is configured to be grasped by the operator and used to lift the mesh basket 3. In one embodiment, it is in a form of a bent sheet metal.

[0065] In this embodiment, the walls of the mesh basket 3 have a first weave that prevents the at least one 3D printed object from passing through. The mesh can be made from metal. The mesh may have an openwork structure. A material of the mesh basket 3 must be resistant to corrosion and chemical substances contained in the dissolving solution.

[0066] The front wall 3a is preferably configured to open downward along the vertical axis in this embodiment as it is depicted in Fig. 6. An initial position is the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 being in a closed state (as seen in Fig. 4). This embodiment, involving a downward movement, comprises the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 descending from the initial position toward the ground (the bottom wall 2d ofthe tank 2) without moving upward beyond the initial position and thus not exceeding the top edge of the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3.

[0067] In this embodiment, the mesh basket 3 comprises runners 12 of the front wall 3a suitable for sliding the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3. It allows for a sliding movement and easy access to the interior of the mesh basket 3 to place or remove 3D printed objects. Opening the front wall 3a is possible in the lifted position of the mesh basket 3 because the operator cannot reach it in the resting position. In one embodiment, the front wall 3a does not fold during downward movement but instead slides entirely below the mesh basket 3 into the tank 2. In another embodiment, a person skilled in the art may devise another method for hiding the front wall 3a, such as a folding mechanism. In this embodiment, there are two runners 12 placed on both sides of the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 as it is depicted in Fig. 1 and 4. Preferably, runners 12 are attached to the mesh basket 3 using welding. In another embodiment, the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 may be configured to open upward along the vertical axis. In the initial position, the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 is closed (as seen in Fig. 4). This embodiment, involving an upward movement, may comprise the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 being moved upward beyond the initial position, in a direction opposite to the bottom wall 2d of the tank 2, thereby exceeding the top edge of the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3. This movement can be achieved either by lifting entirely the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3 and securing it in place after lifting the mesh basket 3. In another embodiment there may be used the folding mechanism, as previously described, where the folding occurs from below to above (in a direction opposite to the bottom wall 2d of the tank 2) after lifting the mesh basket 3, where in this embodiment the front wall 3a does not exceed the top edge of the front wall 3a.

[0068] In this embodiment, the front wall 3a may comprise a front wall handle 20 suitable for the operator to grasp and move the front wall 3a along the vertical axis, preferably in the downward direction. The front wall handle 20 is shown in Fig. 2 and 6. Preferably, the front wall handle 20 is attached to the inner mesh basket 6 using fasteners or permanently secured, for example, by welding.

[0069] The front wall 3a is fitted to the mesh basket 3, and during its sliding movement, no gaps appear on the sides (near the side walls 3b of the3 basket 3) through which 3D printed objects could fall out. In this embodiment, runners 12 of the front wall 3a are mounted at side edges of the mesh basket 3 adjacent to the front wall 3a and side walls 3b, as it is shown in Fig. 1 and 4. Fig. 4 is a simplified drawing illustrating runners 12. The first weave that should be visible on both side walls 3b of the basket 3 is omitted to maintain clarity. An opened front wall 3a is shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a simplified drawing illustrating the sliding movement of the front wall 3a. The first weave that should be visible on the back wall 3c is omitted in this drawing to maintain clarity.The front wall 3a is preferably blocked upon reaching the top edge of the mesh basket 3 to prevent an automated sliding movement. In one embodiment, there is a rotating plate that locks the front wall 3a, where a mounting point of the rotating plate is preferably on the top edge of the front wall 3a of the mesh basket 3. In another embodiment, there may be a magnetic lock or a butterfly screw. In one embodiment, the operator can unblock the front wall 3a while the mesh basket 3 is in the resting position and then lift the mesh basket 3, leaving the front wall 3a inside the tank 2. This feature reduces a weight of a lifted basket 3.

[0070] In this embodiment, the guiding means are at least two runners 5 placed inside the tank 2 which are configured to allow the mesh basket 3 to slide along their surface into the lifted position. The guiding means comprises also at least two sliders 13 mounted on the mesh basket 3 which are configured to move along surfaces of the runners 5. At least two runners 5 are shown in Fig. 3. In this embodiment, where the perforated wall 4 between the working section 16 and the circulation section 17 is present, the runners 5 are mounted on the perforated wall 4 and on the side wall 2b of the tank 2, opposite to the perforated wall 4. Preferably, there are four runners 5, two on each wall as it is shown in Fig. 3. The mesh basket 3 comprises at least two sliders 13 shown in Fig. 1 and 4 on its side walls 3b that slide along the surface of the runners 5. Preferably, there are four sliders 13, two on each wall as it is shown in Fig. 2, 3 and 4.

[0071] The runners 5 and the sliders 13 may have a standard construction commonly used in mechanical guiding systems. The slider 13 may be a rail and the runner 5 may comprise guide rollers. Additionally, the construction of the sliders 13 and runners 5 include fastening elements that secure them to the mesh basket 3 and to the walls.

[0072] When the mesh basket 3 is lifted into the lifted position, it is preferably blocked in order to remain in such position. In this embodiment, the device comprises a basket lock for securing the mesh basket 3 in the lifted position. In this embodiment, the basket lock comprises an at least one bracket 8 mounted inside the tank 2, preferably in an upper part of the side wall 2b, and an at least one lever 9 mounted on the side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3. The lever 9 locks onto the bracket 8 in a locked position. The basket lock is shown in Fig. 2 in this locked position. In the embodiment where the perforated wall 4 is present, an identical basket lock is arranged on the perforated wall 4, positioned opposite to the side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3 to keep it stabilized in the lifted position. In this locked position, the mesh basket 3 cannot be lowered. Once the lever 9 is removed from the bracket 8, the mesh basket 3 is unlocked and can be moved again. Preferably, two levers 9 are mounted, one on each side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3, with two corresponding brackets 8. In this embodiment, the lever 9 is mounted to the mesh basket 3 at a single mounting point, allowing it to rotate around this point. In oneembodiment, the single mounting point is on the top edge of the mesh basket 3 - the top edge of the side wall 3b of the mesh basket 3. Preferably, the lever 9 is in the form of an elongated steel rod, with one end hooking onto the bracket 8. The bracket 8 is preferably a suitably bent metal sheet.

[0073] When the mesh basket 3 is lifted, the dissolving solution flows out through the walls of the mesh basket 3.

[0074] This embodiment of the invention provides a counterweight 7 configured to balance the mesh basket 3 during lifting. The counterweight in the device balances the forces acting on the mesh basket 3 that need to be lifted. It counterbalances the weight of the mesh basket 3, making lifting or lowering easier and reducing the effort required. This also helps maintain the overall stability of the device, reducing the risk of an uncontrolled movement or tipping during operation.

[0075] In this embodiment, the counterweight 7 is mounted to the bottom edge of the mesh basket 3, specifically the bottom edge of the back wall 3c of the mesh basket 3, using at least two cables. The counterweight 7 mounted to the bottom edge of the back wall 3d of the mesh basket 3 is shown in Fig.

[0076] 3

[0077] In one embodiment, the inner mesh basket's 6 walls have a second weave that prevents 3D printed objects from passing through. The mesh may have an openwork structure and can be made of metal. The second weave of the inner mesh basket 6 has a higher density than or the same as the first weave of the mesh basket 3 in order to prevent falling out 3D printed objects characterized preferably by small dimensions up to 3 centimeters.

[0078] This embodiment of the invention provides the inner basket 6 with five walls. The inner mesh basket 6 is shown in Fig. 1, 4 and 7. In this embodiment it may have a cuboid shape and may be made of a frame. It comprises two side walls 6b of the inner mesh basket 6, a front wall 6b of the inner mesh basket 6, a back wall 6c of the inner mesh basket 6 and a bottom wall 6d of the inner mesh basket 6. The inner mesh basket 6 comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges. Each top edge is adjusted to respective wall (front wall 6a, side walls 6b and back wall 6c) from the top, each bottom edge is adjusted to respective wall (front wall 6a, side walls 6b and back wall 6c) from the bottom. Each side edge is positioned between two walls, such that one side edge is between the front wall 6a of the inner mesh basket 6 and the side wall 6b of the inner mesh basket 6, while the other side edge is between the side wall 6b of the inner mesh basket 6 and the back wall 6c of the inner mesh basket 6. In this embodiment the inner mesh basket 6 is removably attached at its top edges to top edges of the mesh basket 3 like it shown in Fig. 1, 4 and 5. Fig. 7 provides embodiment where the inner mesh basket 6 comprises at least two overlapping parts in a form of bent plates 21 mounted on its top edges whichoverlap top edges of the mesh basket 3 in a stable way. The inner mesh basket 6 is not permanently attached to the mesh basket 3. The operator can easily remove it by lifting it without the need for any additional action. The bent plates 21 may be positioned on the top edges of the inner mesh basket 6 which are adjusted to the side walls 6b of the inner mesh basket 6 or to the front wall 6a of the inner mesh basket 6 and to the back wall 6c of the inner mesh basket 6. The bent plates 21 of the inner mesh basket 6 can overlap the top edges adjusted to the side walls 3b of the mesh basket 3, or to the front wall 3a and back wall 3c of the mesh basket 3. The bent plates 21 may be mounted using fasteners or permanently secured, e.g., by welding.

[0079] Additionally, in this embodiment, the top edges of the inner mesh basket 6 may have an inner mesh basket handles 14 which are positioned above the surface of the dissolving solution to prevent the operator from coming into contact with the dissolving solution. The inner mesh basket handles 14 in this embodiment are designed as bent sheet metal. In other embodiments, they may have different shapes or constructions to ensure a firm grasp. In one embodiment, there are two inner mesh basket handles 14 arranged oppositely on two top edges of two side walls 6b of the inner mesh basket 6 as it is shown in Fig. 7. Preferably, the inner mesh basket handles 14 are attached to the inner mesh basket 6 using fasteners or permanently secured, for example, by welding.

[0080] The device may comprise a cover la configured to close the device from a top. The cover la is preferably supported by gas springs. In another embodiment, there may be coil springs or a counterweight. After opening the cover la, the operator gains access to the mesh basket 3.

[0081] Further, the device may comprise an at least one heater configured to heat the dissolving solution. The at least heater is preferably positioned in the circulation section 17. The increase in temperature of the dissolving solution accelerates chemical reactions and also increases a solubility of support materials, making a removal process faster and more efficient. High temperature can also reduce a viscosity of the dissolving solution, allowing for easier flow and better coverage of the support material. Additionally, heating can help dissolve materials that only dissolve at higher temperatures. The at least one heater is positioned in the dissolving solution while its electrical connections are located outside the dissolving solution.

[0082] In this embodiment, the device comprise a water level sensor for indicating an insufficient or excess amount of the dissolving solution. Preferably, the water level sensor is placed in the circulation section 17, where it is protected from being damaged by the mesh basket 3.

[0083] The device may additionally comprise wheels 15 positioned at the bottom of the device, making it easy to transport the entire device from one place to another. Preferably, two wheels 15 are swivel wheels. The wheels 15 are shown in Fig. 1, 3 and 5.In this embodiment, the mesh basket 3 is supported by at least two spacer elements 18 which are shown in Fig. 2 and 3. They are mounted on the bottom wall 2d of the tank 2. But in another embodiment, they can be mounted directly to the bottom wall 3d of the mesh basket 3. The mesh basket 3 preferably rests with its bottom wall 3d on spacer elements 18. In a preferable embodiment, there are four spacer elements 18 located on respective four corners of the bottom wall 3d of the mesh basket 3.

[0084] In this embodiment, the device comprises a heat sensor that is monitored by the control module. The control module continuously analyzes temperature data from the heat sensor and adjusts system parameters accordingly to maintain optimal operating conditions. The control module may generate alerts if the detected temperature exceeds a specified threshold.

Claims

Claims1. A device for removing a support material from an at least one 3D printed object, comprising:a housing (1),a tank (2), located inside the housing (1), suitable for storing a dissolving solution, a mesh basket, (3) positioned in the tank (2), configured to be submerged in the dissolving solution and to hold the at least one 3D printed object with the support material,a circulation module configured to ensure a circulation of the dissolving solution, a control module,wherein the tank (2) is divided into a working section (16), suitable for accommodating the basket (3), and a circulation section (17), suitable for accommodating the circulation module, wherein the mesh basket (3) comprises walls which are configured to allow a flow of a dissolving solution stream, and the mesh basket (3) is configured to be lifted in an upward direction above a surface of the dissolving solution by guiding means,wherein the mesh basket (3) comprises a front wall (3a) of the mesh basket (3) which is configured to open along a vertical axis,wherein it further comprises an inner mesh basket (6), where the mesh basket (3) is suitable for accommodating the inner mesh basket (6), wherein walls of the inner mesh basket (6) are configured to allow the flow of the dissolving solution stream.

2. The device according to any one of claim 1, wherein the mesh basket (3) has a cuboid shape made of a frame and comprises the front wall (3a) of the mesh basket (3), two side walls (3b) of the mesh basket (3), a back wall (3c) of the mesh basket (3) and a bottom wall (3d) of the mesh basket (3), wherein the mesh basket (3) comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges.

3. The device according to any one of claim 1 or 2, wherein the tank (2) has a cuboid shape and comprises a front wall (2a) of the tank (2), two side walls (2b) of the tank (2), a back wall (2c) of the tank (2) and a bottom wall (2d) of the tank (2).

4. The device according to any one of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the inner mesh basket (6) has a cuboid shape made of a frame and comprises a front wall (6a) of the inner mesh basket (6), two side walls (6b) of the inner mesh basket (6), a back wall (6c) of the inner mesh basket (6) and a bottom wall (6d) of the inner mesh basket (6), wherein the inner mesh basket (6) comprises four top edges, four bottom edges and four side edges.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the front wall (3a) of the mesh basket (3) is configured to open downward along the vertical axis.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the working section (16) and the circulation section (17) are separated by a perforated wall (4) suitable for the flow of the dissolving solution stream.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the inner mesh basket (6) occupies less than half of the volume of the mesh basket (3), more preferably occupies less than one-third of the volume of the mesh basket (3).

8. The device according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the mesh basket (3) comprises an at least one handle (11) at the top of the mesh basket (3), preferably comprises two handles (11) arranged oppositely on two top edges of the mesh basket (3), wherein the at least one handle (11) is positioned above the surface of the dissolving solution.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the walls of the mesh basket (3) have a first weave that prevents the at least one 3D printed object from passing through.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the mesh basket (3) comprises runners (12) suitable for sliding the front wall (3a) of the mesh basket (3).

11. The device according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the guiding means are at least two runners (5) mounted inside the tank (2) and at least two sliders (13), where runners (5) are configured to allow the sliders (13) to slide along their surface into a lifted position of the mesh basket (3), preferably the at least two runners (5) are mounted on the side wall (2b) of the tank (2) and the perforated wall (4) and the at least two sliders (13) are mounted on the side walls (3b) of the mesh basket (3), where the lifted position is when the mesh basket (3) is lifted above the surface of the dissolving solution.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein comprises a basket lock for securing the mesh basket (3) in the lifted position.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the basket lock comprises an at least one bracket (8) mounted on the side wall (2b) of the tank (2) and an at least one lever (9) mounted on the side wall (3b) of the mesh basket (3), wherein the at least one lever (9) is suitable for locking onto the bracket (8).

14. The device according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein comprises a counterweight (7) configured to balance the mesh basket (3) during lifting.

15. The device according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the walls of the inner mesh basket (6) have a second weave that prevents 3D printed objects from passing through, wherein the second weave of the inner mesh basket (6) has a higher density than or the same as the first weave of the mesh basket (3).

16. The device according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the inner mesh basket (6) is removably attached at its top edges to top edges of the mesh basket (3).

17. The device according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the circulation module comprises a drive module (24), a power transmission system and a turbine (23).

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the turbine (23) is positioned offset from a transverse axis of the tank (2), where the transverse axis of the tank (2) extends along the back wall (2c) and the front wall (2a) of the tank (2).

19. The device according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein comprises a cover (la) configured to close the device from the top.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein comprises an at least one heater (22) configured to heat the dissolving solution.

21. The device according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein comprises a water level sensor for indicating an insufficient or excess amount of the dissolving solution.

22. The device according to any one of claims 1-21, wherein comprises a heat sensor.

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