JP2000280357A - Apparatus and method for three-dimensional shaping - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reproduce a density of color and its gradation easily and vividly on a three-dimensionally shaped product while coloring is applied to the three- dimensionally shaped product in a short time and at a low cost. SOLUTION: For a three-dimensionally shaping apparatus 10, a plurality of discharging nozzles 15a-15e are provided to a nozzle head 15, colored resin Y, M, C are discharged from the discharging nozzles 15a-15c among them, and a while (W) resin is discharged from the discharging nozzle 15d. By using the while (W) resin, a bright color incapable of being represented by only three colors Y, M, C can be also represented, coloring can be applied in a shaping process of the three-dimensionally shaped product 21, and a density of color and its gradation can be also reproduced.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a three-dimensional printing apparatus and a three-dimensional printing method, and more particularly to a method in which a resin is ejected in a liquid or fluid state by an ink jet method, cured, and laminated. The present invention relates to a three-dimensional printing apparatus and a three-dimensional printing method for manufacturing a target three-dimensional printing object.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, three-dimensional modeling is performed by sequentially laminating a resin on each cross section obtained by cutting a three-dimensional modeling object on a plurality of parallel surfaces, thereby forming a three-dimensional model of the modeling object. Are known.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing such a conventional three-dimensional printing apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. This three-dimensional printing apparatus 10
In step 0, the computer 111 converts the three-dimensional object into data, and slices it into several thin sections to send out section data. The drive control unit 112 captures the cross-sectional data from the computer 111 and, in accordance with the data,
5. Control the XY-direction drive unit 113 and Z-direction drive unit 114. Under the control of the drive control unit 112, the XY-direction drive unit 113 operates and the inkjet head 115 discharges the thermoplastic resin as small droplets, thereby forming a cross-sectional shape based on the cross-sectional data given from the computer 111. . Then, the thermoplastic resin discharged on the stage 116 is radiated and cooled, changes from a molten state to a solid state, and is cured. By such an operation, a single cross section or layer is created.

After that, the Z-direction drive unit 114 is controlled by the drive control unit 112, and the stage 116 is lowered by a distance corresponding to the thickness of one layer. By performing the same operation as described above, a new layer is stacked on the first layer. As described above, the formed object 117 is formed by laminating a number of thin layers continuously formed.

[0005] When the object 117 has an overhang shape, the computer 111 adds an overhang support portion shape as necessary when the computer 111 converts the object into data. Then, the drive control unit 112
Simultaneously with the formation of the shaped object, the overhang is caused by discharging a thermoplastic resin having a different melting temperature from the thermoplastic resin for forming the shaped object based on the shape of the overhang support portion from the inkjet head 118 as small droplets. The support 119 is formed.

After the lamination is completed, the shaped object is heated and kept at a temperature higher than the melting point of the resin for the supporting portion and lower than the melting point of the resin for the shaped portion, thereby forming the resin forming the overhang supporting portion 119. Can be removed by melting, and a desired three-dimensional structure can be obtained.

[0007]

However, in a conventional three-dimensional molding apparatus, an injection molding machine or a cutting machine, a three-dimensional molded article produced is made of a single resin except for a special case such as two-material molding. Because it is made of a material, it is only in a single colored state. Therefore, if coloring is required for the three-dimensional structure, the designer must draw and color the pattern in the subsequent process, and there has been a problem that it takes more time and money than necessary.

In other words, when a three-dimensional object having a plurality of colors is created or when a three-dimensional object having an arbitrary mixture of colors is created, the final tertiary tertiary object can be manufactured in a short time and at low cost using a conventional apparatus. The original model could not be created, and had to rely on humans after modeling.

Therefore, the present invention is capable of coloring a three-dimensional modeled object in a short time and at low cost, and reproducing color shading and gradation easily and clearly on the three-dimensional modeled object. It is an object of the present invention to provide a three-dimensional printing apparatus and a three-dimensional printing method that can be used.

[0010]

In order to achieve the above object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a layered body corresponding to each cross section obtained by cutting a modeling object along a plurality of parallel surfaces is formed by a plurality of materials. A three-dimensional modeling apparatus that forms a three-dimensional model of the modeling object by sequentially laminating the layer bodies, wherein the plurality of materials are a white material, It is characterized by including a material of a plurality of colors other than white.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the first aspect, the plurality of materials are a plurality of resins colored with different color components including a white resin. Features.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the second aspect, the plurality of resins include a black resin.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the second or third aspect, the plurality of resins are a resin colored yellow, a resin colored cyan, and a magenta resin. And a colored resin.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the plurality of materials include a plurality of different colors including a modeling resin and different color components including white. And ink.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the plurality of color inks include black ink.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the fifth or sixth aspect, the plurality of color inks include yellow ink, cyan ink, and magenta ink. It is characterized by.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a layer body corresponding to each cross section of the object to be formed cut in a plurality of parallel planes is formed by discharging a predetermined material, and the layer bodies are sequentially laminated. It is a three-dimensional modeling method of generating a three-dimensional molded object of the modeling object by doing, a step of generating coloring information for each section, a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white Discharging the plurality of materials from the discharge nozzles based on the coloring information while relatively moving a discharge nozzle that discharges a plurality of materials including a plurality of materials and a stage that sequentially stacks the plurality of materials. And a step of causing

[0018]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS <1. First Embodiment> In this embodiment, a plurality of resins colored with different color components, including a white resin, are used as a resin for forming a three-dimensional structure, thereby shortening the molding process. A configuration is shown that can color a three-dimensional structure at a low cost at a low cost and can easily and clearly reproduce shades and gradations of the color on the three-dimensional structure.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<1-1. Overall configuration of 3D modeling device>
FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. The three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 includes a computer 11, a drive control unit 12, an XY-direction drive unit 13, a Z-direction drive unit 14, a nozzle head 15, a tank unit 18, a melting unit 19, and a stage 20.

The computer 11 is a general desk-top computer or the like which is internally provided with a CPU, a memory and the like. The computer 11 converts the three-dimensional object into data, and slices the object into several thin sections, and outputs section data to the drive controller 12.

The drive control unit 12 functions as control means for controlling the drive of the XY-direction drive unit 13, the Z-direction drive unit 14, the melting unit 19, the nozzle head 15, and the stage 20, respectively. When the drive control unit 12 obtains the cross-sectional data from the computer 11, the drive control unit 12 gives a drive command to each of the above units based on the cross-sectional data, thereby
The cross-sectional shape of each layer is stacked on top.

The XY-direction drive unit 13 is a drive means provided to move the nozzle head 15 in a plane defined by the X axis and the Y axis, and based on a drive command from the drive control unit 12, Can be moved to an arbitrary position within a driving range in the plane.

The Z-direction drive unit 14 is a drive unit provided to lower the stage 20 every time a single layer of a three-dimensional object or a layer of a plurality of layers is formed on the stage 20. The stage 20 is moved along the vertical Z axis based on the drive command from the controller 12. The Z-direction drive unit 14 lowers the stage 20 as the formation of the three-dimensional structure proceeds, thereby avoiding contact between the nozzle head 15 and the three-dimensional structure formed and stacked on the stage 20. You can do it.

The tank section 18 has a plurality of tanks 18a to 18e each containing a different type of thermoplastic resin. Each of the tanks 18a to 18e contains a stick-like bulk, pellet, or powder thermoplastic resin that is in a solid state at normal temperature. Further, in the melting part 19, the tanks 18a to 18 provided in the tank part 18 are provided.
8e, the melting heater 1 of which the temperature can be individually adjusted.
9a to 19e are provided. Therefore, tank 1
The thermoplastic resin contained in each of 8a-18e is a melting heater 19a-1 provided below each tank.
It is heated and melted by 9e.

The nozzle head 15 is fixed to a lower portion of the XY-direction drive unit 13 and is movable together with the XY-direction drive unit 13 in the XY plane. Also,
The nozzle head 15 has the same number of discharge nozzles 15a to 15e as the number of tanks in the tank section 18.
The thermoplastic resin melted in the steps # 18 to # 18e is supplied to the corresponding discharge nozzles 15a to 15e in a heated and insulated state. Each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e is a nozzle that discharges (spouts) the molten thermoplastic resin as minute droplets by, for example, an inkjet method. The discharge of the thermoplastic resin by each of the discharge nozzles 15 a to 15 e is individually controlled by the drive control unit 12.
The thermoplastic resin discharged from a to 15e adheres to a stage 20 provided at a position facing the nozzle head 15. Note that the discharge nozzle 15e is a nozzle for a support unit that discharges a resin for a support unit that supports the overhang shape.

The stage 20 functions as a base for generating a three-dimensional object, and the thermoplastic resin discharged from each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e radiates heat on the stage 20.
Upon cooling, it changes from a molten state to a solid and hardens.

The stage 20 is divided into a plurality of small regions on the upper surface side, that is, the molding surface side, and a divided stage 20a is arranged in each small region. Each of these divided stages 20a performs an independent elevating operation in response to a control command from the drive control unit 12.

In this embodiment, in order to produce a three-dimensional object having a plurality of colors or a three-dimensional object consisting of an arbitrary mixture of colors, the three-dimensional object is colored into different color components as colorants for the three-dimensional object. Use multiple resins. In addition, using a coloring resin to form a part of a three-dimensional structure that does not require coloring can impede efficient modeling. Use

For this reason, among the tanks 18a to 18e of the tank portion 18, the tanks 18a to 18c are provided with coloring resins colored with different color components in order to color the three-dimensional structure. Is stored, and the tank 18d mainly stores a W (white) forming resin for forming a portion that does not need to be colored. In addition, as the modeling resin, a white resin in a natural state may be used, or a resin colored white may be used.

The tanks 18a to 18c contain resins (coloring resins) colored Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan), respectively.
8e contains a resin for the supporting portion. The resins other than the support portion resin may be the same resin material or different resin materials.

In this embodiment, a thermoplastic resin is used as an example of the resin used for the additive manufacturing as described above. A resin that is solid at room temperature, has a low melting point, and a low melt viscosity is easily formed, and examples thereof include high molecular weight polystyrene and polycaprolactone.

It is also possible to use a photo-curing resin or a thermosetting resin in addition to the thermoplastic resin. In this case, the above-mentioned melting portion 19 is unnecessary, but on the stage 20 An energy beam irradiation device for curing the resin adhered to the surface is required.

As the resin for the support portion for forming the overhang support portion 22, a thermoplastic resin having a lower melting point than the resin for forming and coloring forming the three-dimensional structure is used. For example, there are wax-based resins and adipate-based esters. By using such a resin for the support portion, the temperature of the shaped object after the completion of lamination including the overhang support portion 22 is equal to or higher than the melting point of the resin for the support portion, and equal to or lower than the melting points of the resin for modeling and coloring. By setting the temperature at a certain value, only the resin for the supporting portion is melted and removed, whereby a desired finished product of a desired three-dimensional structure can be obtained.

<1-2. Operation in Three-dimensional Modeling Apparatus 10> Next, the operation in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment.

First, the computer 11 converts a modeling object having a three-dimensional shape with a color pattern or the like on its surface into model data (step S1). Color three-dimensional model data created by general three-dimensional CAD modeling software can be used as the data of the modeling object that is the basis for modeling. It is also possible to use shape data and texture measured by the three-dimensional shape input device.

In the model data obtained in this way, there are cases where color information is given only to the surface of the three-dimensional model and cases where color information is given up to the inside of the three-dimensional model. In the latter case, it is also possible to use only the color information of the model surface at the time of modeling, or it is also possible to use the color information inside the model.

When performing this data conversion, if the object to be molded has an overhang shape, an overhang support portion shape is added.

Then, section data for each section obtained by slicing the object to be formed is generated from the model data (step S2). A cross-sectional body sliced at a thickness pitch corresponding to the thickness of one layer of the resin to be laminated is cut out from the model data, and data of a cross-sectional shape and a coloring region are created.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the cross-sectional data generated in step S2. As shown in FIG. 3, it is possible to cut out a certain cross section from the model data, subdivide it into a grid, and obtain cross section data having color information for each voxel. That is, the cross-sectional data can have color information in the same form as the bit map of the two-dimensional image.

In the case where the cross-section data has an overhang shape, the section data also includes information on a support portion to be formed in order to support the overhang shape. Then, the section data generated by the computer 11 is sent to the drive control unit 12.

In step S 3, information on the lamination thickness (for example, the height dimension of a three-dimensional object) at the time of forming the object is sent from the computer 11 to the drive control unit 1.
2 is input.

The operation from the next step S4 is performed by the drive control unit 12 controlling each unit. In step S4, the stage 20 is raised to a position suitable for discharge molding of the cross-sectional shape of the first layer (that is, the first layer body). As a result, the positional relationship between the stage 20 and the nozzle head 15 becomes a predetermined positional relationship, and the resin discharged from each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e of the nozzle head 15 adheres to an appropriate position on the stage 20.

When the movement of the stage 20 is completed, the process proceeds to step S5, in which data conversion such as gradation conversion is performed on the sectional data by data conversion means (not shown) provided inside the drive control unit 12, and each ejection is performed. Nozzles 15a to 15
Information about the layer shape, coloring, etc., suitable for the droplet size discharged from e is generated.

In step S6, the drive controller 12 according to the layer shape and color information generated by the data conversion.
Gives a drive command to the XY-direction drive unit 13 to move the nozzle head 15 in a predetermined direction, and causes the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e to appropriately discharge the resin with the movement.

When the resin is discharged from the colored portion of the three-dimensional object, the resin of Y, M, C, and W is discharged based on the coloring information derived from the object to be formed, so that the three-dimensional object is discharged. Performs color molding in the molding process of the molded object. On the other hand, when resin is discharged to a portion of the three-dimensional structure that does not need to be colored, the resin of W used for forming is discharged to form the three-dimensional structure.

In the case of an overhang shape, the overhang support portion 2 for supporting the overhang portion is provided.
The resin for the supporting portion is discharged in order to shape the resin 2.

The resin adhering to the stage 20 is naturally radiated or cooled by a cooling means (not shown) provided inside the stage 20 to change from a molten state to a solid state and to be cured.

In this way, in step S6, the layered body which is a cross section of one layer of the three-dimensionally shaped object is formed.

When the modeling for one layer is completed, the process proceeds to step S7, in which the drive control unit 12 determines whether or not the modeling of the three-dimensional model has been completed. The process returns to step S4 to form the layer, and when the determination is “YES”, the forming operation ends.

When returning to step S4, the stage 20 is lowered by the height of the formed one layer.
In forming the next layer, the nozzle head 15 and the stage 2
The positional relationship between the object and the object to be stacked on the object 0 is corrected to an appropriate positional relationship.

By repeating the above operation,
A new layer body of the second layer is laminated on the upper side of the first layer. By repeating such an operation by the number of the cross-sections, the colored layers for each layer are sequentially stacked on the stage 20, and finally the three-dimensional object 21 of the object to be modeled is moved to the stage 20. It is shaped on top. Then, the three-dimensional structure 21 to be formed is colored.

The three-dimensional structure 21 thus obtained
Is shown in FIG. FIG. 4A shows a cross section of the three-dimensional structure 21, and FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of a portion A in FIG. In FIG. 4B, the vicinity 21a of the surface side of the three-dimensional structure 21 is colored with Y, M, and C resins as indicated by the hatched area, and the inside 21b is formed with W resin. Is being done. That is, the colored portion in FIG. 4B is formed by discharging colored resin from the discharge nozzles 15a to 15c, which are coloring nozzles, and the inner side portion that is not a colored portion is a molding nozzle. It is formed by discharging a molding resin from a certain discharge nozzle 15d.

Therefore, by adopting a configuration like the three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 in this embodiment, it is possible to apply coloring in the process of forming the three-dimensional printing object, to reduce the cost in a short time without relying on humans. Color molding can be easily performed. In addition, by using a white resin, it is possible to express a bright color or the like that cannot be expressed only by three colors of Y, M, and C, and it is possible to easily change the shading and gradation of a color for a three-dimensional structure. And it can be reproduced clearly.

In FIG. 4B, the region to be colored extends not only to the surface of the three-dimensional structure 21 but also to the inner side region. This is because, since highly accurate control of the movement amount of the nozzle head 15 and the ejection timing of each resin is required, the coloring information is offset by a predetermined width to the inside in the cross-sectional data. Further, by forming a colored area by a predetermined width on the inner side as shown in FIG. 4B, even if the surface of the three-dimensional structure 21 is subsequently scratched, the white color of the internal resin is reduced. Can be prevented from being exposed. On the other hand, if high-precision control is performed so that the coloring region is formed only on the surface, the amount of coloring resin used can be reduced.

When the three-dimensional structure 21 has an overhang shape, the overhang support portion 22 is formed integrally when the flowchart shown in FIG. 2 is completed. For this reason, after the molding is completed, the three-dimensional molded object is placed at a temperature higher than the melting point of the resin for the support portion and lower than the melting point of the other resin, thereby allowing the overhang support portion 22 to be formed.
Only melt and remove. Thus, by using the resin for the supporting portion, even if the object to be modeled has a complicated shape, a three-dimensional object can be generated.

The schematic configuration and operation of the three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment have been described above. However, if a CAD / CAM / CAE system is introduced into the computer 11, the speed at the time of printing and the design can be increased. It is also possible to recommend qualitative improvements.

<1-3. Coloring> Next, coloring in the forming process in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the coloring portion of the three-dimensional structure 21 includes Y, M,
By laminating a plurality of resins colored in the three primary colors C, the three-dimensional structure 21 is colored in the forming process.

Discharge nozzles 15a to 15c for coloring
Discharges a resin colored to each of the Y, M, and C color components capable of expressing different color components by subtractive color mixing, while discharging nozzles 15d for modeling
Discharges a white resin.

As described above, by using a white resin for forming the three-dimensional structure 21 discharged from the discharge nozzle 15d, a collection of fine resin droplets discharged from each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15d is formed. Mixed color or color gradation can be expressed.

Generally, it is sufficient to mix the three primary colors of Y, M, and C in order to perform coloring. However, in order to express the shade of color, in addition to the three primary colors, a resin colored white is ejected and mixed. It becomes effective. In general printers and the like, characters and images are printed on white paper with ink, toner, and the like. Therefore, if the white color of the base paper is used, white ink is not necessary, and three colors of Y, M, and C are used. By simply using, the shading of each color component can be expressed in principle. However, when there is no base material as in the case of three-dimensional modeling, it is particularly advantageous to use a white resin.

That is, a dark color can be expressed by mixing the respective color components of Y, M, and C, but a white color cannot be expressed. Therefore, a white resin is prepared for modeling, and a white resin is prepared. If a white resin is used for coloring, it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shade and gradation of the color on the three-dimensional structure 21.

A description will be given of an example of a resin discharge mode when displaying shades when coloring the three-dimensional structure 21 in this manner.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of gradation expression for cyan. When predetermined gradation conversion is performed in the drive control unit 12, the multivalued gradation data included in the cross-sectional data is converted into binary data having a certain area. This 2
Value data turns on / off each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e
This is information for control.

FIG. 5 shows this fixed area. By changing the resin discharge pattern of each color component into the fixed area for coloring, it is possible to perform gradation expression and mixed color expression. become. When displaying pale cyan, one drop of cyan is ejected to a certain area, and white is ejected to other areas. When displaying dark cyan, four drops of cyan are ejected over the entire fixed area. As described above, by changing the ejection ratio of the cyan resin and the white resin with respect to a certain area, it is possible to appropriately express a gradation change from light cyan to dark cyan.

In the example of FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, a fixed area for coloring generated by gradation conversion is shown by four ejection areas, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in a case where the cross-sectional data has 256 gradations and the data is converted into binary data for ON / OFF control without lowering the gradation, 256 ejection regions are included in a certain region. Is determined.

Next, FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an expression changing from light cyan to light yellow. The left end of FIG. 6 is an ejection pattern of C and W when expressing light cyan, and the right end is an ejection pattern of Y and W when expressing light yellow. When changing from pale cyan to pale yellow through a mixed color of cyan and yellow, as shown in FIG. 6, gradually change the ratio of discharging C, Y, and W into a certain area. This makes it possible to express such a color change.

FIG. 7 shows a group of a plurality of fixed areas for coloring. FIG. 7A shows C
7A and 7B show ejection patterns, and FIG. 7B specifically shows a coloring form expressed by the ejection pattern of FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the drive control unit 12 controls the ejection pattern so that the three-dimensional object 21 is controlled.
It is possible to perform coloring in the molding process of.

When the same gradation is to be displayed in a plurality of adjacent fixed areas, if the ejection pattern is the same, a pattern that is not present in the object to be modeled due to the regular arrangement of the pattern is a three-dimensional object 21. May appear above. In order to avoid such a situation, it is preferable to change the ejection pattern even when displaying the same gradation. 8A and 8B are diagrams showing an example in which the ejection pattern is changed. FIG. 8A shows three drops of white for one drop of cyan, FIG. 8B shows two drops of white for two drops of cyan,
(C) shows an example in which one drop of white is discharged for three drops of cyan. When the same gradation is adjacent, the drive control unit 12 functions as an ejection pattern determining unit. When the ejection pattern from each of the ejection nozzles 15a to 15d is one drop of cyan, as shown in FIG. In addition, by changing as shown in FIG. 8 (b) when cyan is two drops, and as shown in FIG. 8 (c) when cyan is three drops, a pattern which is not in the object to be formed is tertiary. Appearing on the original object 21 can be avoided. Here, in each of FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, which ejection pattern is selected may be determined randomly or may be determined regularly.

As described above, in this embodiment, when forming the colored portion of the three-dimensional structure 21, Y, M,
In addition to the resin colored in C, the W (white) resin prepared for modeling is used, and only the W (white) resin for modeling is used when modeling portions other than the colored portion. By using, it is possible to apply coloring corresponding to the modeling object in the modeling process,
Color shades and gradations can be easily and clearly reproduced for three-dimensional objects.

The colored resins discharged from the discharge nozzles 15a to 15c have different color components (for example,
R (red), G (green), B (blue), etc.), but by using a resin colored in three primary colors of Y, M, and C, these are mixed to form a three-dimensional resin. There is an effect that all the color components such as the intermediate color can be colored on the modeled object 21.

Further, in the case where black is reproduced on the surface side of the three-dimensional structure 21, black can be expressed by discharging three colors of Y, M, and C, but clear black is reproduced. For this purpose, a discharge nozzle for discharging the resin colored in black may be separately provided.

<1-4. Configuration of Nozzle Head> Next, a configuration example of the nozzle head 15 in the above-described three-dimensional printing apparatus 10 will be described.

Each ejection nozzle 1 in the nozzle head 15
Each of 5a to 15e is provided with a pressure generating means such as a piezoelectric actuator, and a predetermined pressure is applied to the molten resin supplied into the nozzle by the pressure generating means, so that a droplet is formed from the tip of the nozzle. It is configured to discharge a resin in a shape.

With such a configuration, the drive control unit 12 can independently control the drive of the pressure generating means of each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e, and thereby the resin colored in each color or other resin can be controlled. The discharge of the resin can be controlled individually.

Further, since each of the discharge nozzles 15a to 15e provided in the nozzle head 15 can be individually controlled as described above, some examples of the configuration of the nozzle head 15 can be considered.

First, in the nozzle head 15 which can be individually controlled as described above, a plurality of nozzle units in which a plurality of discharge nozzles 15a to 15e are linearly arranged as shown in FIG. It is possible to do.

FIG. 9 is a view showing an example of the configuration of a nozzle head 15 for coloring a three-dimensional structure.
(A) shows a configuration example in which five types of resins, a coloring resin colored in three primary colors, a white molding resin, and a resin for a support portion, are individually discharged, and (b) further shows a black resin. 4 shows an example of a configuration for discharging. In FIG. 9, Y is a yellow resin, M is a magenta resin, C is a cyan resin, W is a white resin, S is a resin for a support portion, and K is a discharge nozzle for discharging a black resin. .

As shown in FIG. 9, a plurality of discharge nozzles 15
a to 15e (or 15a to 15f) are linearly arranged to constitute one nozzle unit 17, and a plurality of nozzle units 17 are arranged in parallel to arrange a plurality of discharge nozzles in a matrix. Thus, it is possible to efficiently and surely perform the coloring molding. For example, when the nozzle head 15 is moved in the X direction, since the width of the nozzle head 15 in the Y direction can be simultaneously formed as one scan, the modeling can be performed efficiently.
It is possible to reduce the molding time.

In FIG. 9, the axes of the plurality of discharge nozzles (that is, the discharge directions) are arranged so as to be parallel to each other, and the drive control unit 12 adjusts the timing of movement of the nozzle head 15 in the X direction or the Y direction. By discharging each resin in time series, a plurality of colors of resin can be mixed in a certain area.

Secondly, in the nozzle head 15 which can be individually controlled as described above, among the discharge nozzles 15a to 15d and 15f for discharging resins other than the resin for the support portion, Y,
Coloring discharge nozzles 15a to 15c and 15f for discharging M, C (and even K) colored resin are provided for modeling, and are formed for discharging white resin.
The arrangement around 5d is also conceivable.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the concept of such an arrangement, FIG. 10A is a conceptual diagram viewed from the side, and FIG.
Is a conceptual diagram viewed from above. As shown in FIG. 10B, the discharge nozzles 15a to 15c and 15f are arranged around a discharge nozzle 15d of a white resin as a molding resin, and a plurality of discharge nozzles are formed as shown in FIG. Nozzle 15
By arranging the axes (discharge directions) a to 15f so as to intersect in a certain area for coloring, it is possible to simultaneously discharge the resin of each color into the certain area for coloring. When such discharge nozzles 15a to 15f are used as one nozzle unit 17, this nozzle unit 1
By arranging a plurality of 7s as shown in FIG. 11, it is possible to perform coloring modeling efficiently and reliably. In addition,
FIG. 11A shows an example of the nozzle head 15 in which the nozzle units 17 of FIG. 10 are linearly arranged in the Y direction.
FIG. 11B shows the nozzle head 15 arranged in the XY plane.
Is shown. When a molding gap is generated by scanning the nozzle head 15 having the configuration of FIG. 11A in the X direction, the configuration of FIG. 11B may be employed.

<1-5. Regarding the Stage 20> The molding surface side of the stage 20 is divided into a lattice shape, and each of them is configured as a divided stage 20a which can be raised and lowered independently. Each of these divided stages 20a is
The lifting operation is controlled by this. For example, a stepping motor is arranged for each of the divided stages 20a, and the drive control unit 12 controls the driving of the stepping motors, so that the divided stages 20a are individually raised and lowered.

As shown in FIG. 12, when modeling such as a relief having a concave back surface is performed, each division stage 20a is individually controlled to move up and down each time molding is performed for each layer, so that the back surface of the three-dimensional molded object 21 is controlled. It is possible to perform modeling having a concave shape on the side. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 12A, the division stage 20a in the region corresponding to the concave shape is raised to such an extent that it does not interfere with the nozzle head 15, and in this state, the nozzle head 15 More resin is discharged. And the molding progresses, stage 2
As 0 decreases, the division stage 20a in the area corresponding to the concave shape is raised to such an extent that it does not interfere with the nozzle head 15 (FIG. 12B). When the modeling is completed, a predetermined concave shape is formed on the back side of the three-dimensional modeled object 21 (FIGS. 12C and 12D). By adopting such a configuration of the division stage 20a, the three-dimensional structure 2
1, a desired concave shape can be formed on the back side, the amount of modeling resin used on the back side can be reduced, and the modeling speed can be increased. As a result, the production cost of the three-dimensional structure 21 can be reduced, and efficient modeling can be performed.
In addition, it is possible to reduce the amount of resin used for the supporting section by moving the split stage 20a up and down in the supporting section having the overhang shape.

In the case where each of the divided stages 20a of the stage 20 is individually raised and lowered to form a concave shape on the back surface side of the three-dimensional structure 21, as shown in FIG. At the time of generation, each division stage 20
Needless to say, data in which a modeling unnecessary part is removed from a modeling part is generated in consideration of the elevating operation by a.

<2. Second Embodiment> In this embodiment, a resin is used as a material for forming a three-dimensional structure, and a plurality of color inks are used as a coloring material for applying a color in the process of forming the resin. An example is shown below. And, by using a material having a white color component in either the modeling resin or the coloring ink, it is possible to color the three-dimensional model at a short time and at low cost in the modeling process, This shows a configuration that can easily and clearly reproduce color shading and gradation on a three-dimensional structure.

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<2-1. Overall configuration of 3D modeling device>
FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a three-dimensional printing apparatus 30 according to this embodiment. In FIG. 14, members having the same functions and effects as those described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The three-dimensional printing apparatus 30 includes a computer 11, a drive control unit 12, and an XY
Direction drive unit 13, Z-direction drive unit 14, and nozzle head 35
, A tank section 38, a melting section 39, and the stage 20.

Computer 11, drive control unit 12, and XY
The directional drive unit 13, the Z-direction drive unit 14, and the stage 20 exhibit the same operation and effects as those of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

What differs from the first embodiment in this embodiment is a nozzle head 35, a tank section 38 and a melting section 39.

The tank section 38 includes two tanks 38a and 38b for respectively containing thermoplastic resins having different melting points for the molding and the supporting section, and a plurality of tanks 40a to 40d for respectively containing inks of different color components. And Further, a tank 38 containing a thermoplastic resin is provided in the melting portion 39.
a and 38b corresponding to each of the two melting heaters 39.
a and 39b are provided. For this reason, the tank 38
The thermoplastic resin contained in each of the a and 38b is supplied to a melting heater 39a, 39 provided below each tank.
Heated and melted by b. On the other hand, a plurality of tanks 40
Since each ink contained in a to 40d is liquid at normal temperature, it is not necessary to provide a melting heater or the like.

The nozzle head 35 is fixed to the lower part of the XY-direction drive unit 13 and is movable together with the XY-direction drive unit 13 in the XY plane. Also,
The nozzle head 35 is provided with the same number of discharge nozzles 35a to 35d, 36a, and 36b as the number of tanks in the tank section 38, and the thermoplastic resin melted in the tanks 38a and 38b is provided with corresponding discharge nozzles 36a, 36b
To the tank 40a-
The ink for each color contained in 40d is supplied to the corresponding discharge nozzles 35a to 35d. Each of the ejection nozzles 35a to 35d, 36a, and 36b is a nozzle that ejects (spouts) ink or resin as minute droplets by, for example, an inkjet method. The ejection of ink or resin from each ejection nozzle is individually controlled by the drive control unit 12, and the ink or resin ejected from each ejection nozzle adheres to the stage 20 provided at a position facing the nozzle head 35. I do. Note that the discharge nozzles 35a to 35d are coloring nozzles that discharge inks of different colors prepared for coloring the three-dimensional structure 42, and the discharge nozzle 36a is a modeling nozzle that discharges a resin to be formed. is there. In addition, the discharge nozzle 36
Reference numeral b denotes a nozzle for the supporting portion for discharging the resin for the supporting portion.

In this embodiment, in order to form a three-dimensional object having a plurality of colors or a three-dimensional object consisting of an arbitrary mixture of colors, the resin is discharged when the three-dimensional object 42 is formed, In addition to the modeling resin, ink of a different color component is ejected to a portion of the three-dimensional model 42 that requires coloring. That is, in this embodiment, inks of different color components are used as colorants for the three-dimensional structure. Since the molding resin of the three-dimensional object does not need to be colored, an achromatic or non-colored resin is used.

Therefore, the tanks 40a to 40d store Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan),
While the ink of W (white) is stored, the tank 38a stores an achromatic or non-colored resin used for forming the three-dimensional structure 42. The achromatic or non-colored resin may be a natural color resin or a white or lightly colored resin. The tank 38b contains a resin for the supporting portion.

Note that the molding surface side of the stage 20 is divided into a lattice shape, and each of them is configured as a separately movable up and down dividing stage 20a as in the first embodiment.

<2-2. Operation in Three-dimensional Modeling Apparatus 30> Next, the operation in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 30 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the three-dimensional printing apparatus 30 in this embodiment. The flowchart in FIG. 15 is substantially the same as the flowchart in FIG. 2, and a different process is step S60.

First, in step S1, the data of the object to be formed is converted into data, and then, in step S2, cross-sectional data for each slice of the object to be formed is sliced. In step S <b> 3, information on the layer thickness when the object is modeled is input from the computer 11 to the drive control unit 12.

Then, in step S4, stage 2
0 is moved to a predetermined position, and in step S5, data conversion is performed by the data conversion unit, and information on a layer shape, a coloring, and the like suitable for a droplet size discharged from each discharge nozzle is generated.

In step S60, the drive control unit 12 gives a drive command to the XY direction drive unit 13 in accordance with the layer shape and color information generated by the data conversion, thereby moving the nozzle head 35 in a predetermined direction. With the movement, the ejection of the ink or the resin from each ejection nozzle is appropriately performed.

At the time of forming a three-dimensional structure, a resin for forming is discharged. Then, at the time of molding a portion requiring coloring, the respective inks of Y, M, C, and W are further ejected based on the coloring information derived from the object to be molded with the ejection of the molding resin, thereby forming a tertiary ink. The original model 42 is colored.

In the case of an overhang shape, the overhang support portion 4 for supporting the overhang portion is provided.
The resin for the supporting portion is discharged in order to form 3.

The resin adhering to the stage 20 is naturally radiated or cooled by a cooling means (not shown) provided inside the stage 20, and changes from a molten state to a solid state and hardens.

As described above, in step S60, the layered body which is a cross section of one layer of the three-dimensionally shaped object is formed.

When the modeling for one layer is completed, the process proceeds to step S7, where the drive control unit 12 determines whether or not the modeling of the three-dimensional model is completed, and when the determination is "NO", the process proceeds from step S4. Is repeated, and when it is determined to be "YES", the modeling operation ends.

The three-dimensional object 42 thus obtained
Are shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. 16A and 17A show a cross section of the three-dimensional structure 42, and FIG. 16B shows an enlarged view of a portion A in FIG.

First, in FIG. 16B, the vicinity 42a of the surface of the three-dimensional structure 42 is colored with Y, M, C, and W inks as shown by the shaded area, and the inner side 42b. Is formed by a molding resin.

In FIG. 16, when the three-dimensional structure 42 has an overhang shape, coloring ink is also ejected on the back side of the overhang portion. In order to form such a three-dimensional structure 42, it is necessary to scan the nozzle head 35 twice when forming a layer body corresponding to the overhang portion. When scanning the XY plane for the first time, only ink is ejected in the vicinity of the surface side of the three-dimensional structure 42, and when scanning the XY plane for the second time, the molding resin is ejected to perform modeling. In the vicinity of the front side, the ink is also ejected and colored. By performing such two-time scanning, it is possible to apply coloring also to the back surface side of the overhang portion of the three-dimensional structure 42 having the overhang shape. For this reason, a coloring faithful to a modeling object can be reproduced, and a high-quality three-dimensional modeling object 42 can be obtained.

Next, in FIG. 17B, similarly, the vicinity 42a of the surface side of the three-dimensional structure 42 is colored with Y, M, C, and W inks as shown by the shaded area. The inner side 42b is molded with a molding resin.

However, in FIG. 17, even when the three-dimensional structure 42 has an overhang shape, no coloring ink is ejected on the back side of the overhang portion. In general, there is little problem even if the back surface of the overhang portion of the three-dimensional structure 42 is not colored. When coloring is not performed on the back surface side of the overhang portion, the modeling can be performed by one scan of the nozzle head 35 to form a layer body for one layer.
Therefore, when the back surface of the three-dimensional structure 42 is not colored, the molding efficiency is improved as compared with the case where the back surface is also colored.

As described above, by adopting the configuration like the three-dimensional printing apparatus 30 in this embodiment, the three-dimensional printing object 42 can be colored in a short time and at low cost in the printing process, and the color can be obtained. It is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shading and gradation of a three-dimensional object.

In FIGS. 16 (b) and 17 (b), it is strictly that the region to be colored with ink extends not only to the surface of the three-dimensional structure 42 but also to a slightly inner region. In order to color the surface only, it is necessary to control the movement amount of the nozzle head 35 and the ejection timing of each ink with high precision, so the coloring information is offset by a predetermined width to the inner side in the cross-sectional data. is there.

Although FIGS. 16 and 17 show a case where a colored portion exists on the surface side of the three-dimensional structure 42, a three-dimensional structure is provided with a modeling nozzle and a coloring nozzle. Coloring is possible not only on the surface side of the original modeled object 42 but also on any part.

On the other hand, when the three-dimensional structure 42 has an overhang shape, the overhang support portion 43 is formed integrally when the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 ends. For this reason, after the modeling is completed, the three-dimensional model 42 is placed at a temperature higher than the melting point of the resin for the supporting portion and lower than the melting point of the resin for modeling, so that only the overhanging supporting portion 43 is melted and removed. . Thus, by using the resin for the supporting portion, even if the object to be modeled has a complicated shape, a three-dimensional object can be generated.

<2-3. Coloring> Next, coloring in the forming process in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, a resin is used for forming the three-dimensional structure 42, and Y, M, C, W 4
Three-dimensional object 4 by discharging color ink
Coloring in the molding process of 2.

Discharge nozzle 3 functioning as a coloring nozzle
Among the discharge nozzles 5a to 35d, ink of each color component of Y, M, and C, which can express different color components by subtractive color mixing, is discharged from each of the discharge nozzles 35a to 35c, while white ink is discharged from the discharge nozzle 35d. Ink is ejected. In addition, an uncolored resin or the like that is used for forming the three-dimensional structure 42 is discharged from the discharge nozzle 36a that functions as a forming nozzle.

By using an uncolored resin or the like for forming the three-dimensional structure 42 discharged from the discharge nozzle 36a as described above, it is possible to form the three-dimensional shape of the three-dimensional structure 42, Nozzles 35a to 35d
A color mixture or a color gradation can be expressed on the three-dimensional structure 42 by a collection of minute ink droplets ejected from the ink.

In general, it is sufficient to mix the three primary colors of Y, M, and C in order to perform coloring. However, in order to express the shading of the color, it is necessary to discharge white ink in addition to the three primary colors and mix the colors. Becomes effective. Therefore, in this embodiment, Y,
The W ink is used in addition to the M and C three color inks. However, when a white resin is used as the molding resin discharged from the discharge nozzle 36a as described in the first embodiment, it is not necessary to use W ink. Because, in this embodiment, the molding resin is used as a base material and the ink is ejected to the resin to be colored, so if the white color of the base resin is used, no white ink is required. It is.

Then, by applying ink of each color component of Y, M, C, and W to the molding resin discharged onto the stage 20, an appropriate color is applied to the three-dimensional object 42. Can be applied.

Note that, in this embodiment, the form of ejection of each ink when coloring the three-dimensional structure 42 is the same as that in the first embodiment. That is, each of FIGS. 5 to 8 also shows the ejection form of each ink in this embodiment, and the details thereof are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

As described above, Y, M, C, and W inks are used as materials for forming the colored portion of the three-dimensional structure 42, and a predetermined material is used as a material for forming the three-dimensional structure 42. By using the molding resin, it is possible to apply a color corresponding to the object to be molded to the three-dimensional object in the molding process. Further, by using the W ink, it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shades and gradations of the color on the three-dimensional structure 42. Also, if a white resin is used as the molding resin,
Since the W component can be removed from the color component of the ink,
The structure of the nozzle head 35 can be simplified as compared with the case where the ink is used, and the same effect as described above can be obtained.

The ink ejected from the ejection nozzles 35a to 35c has a different color component (for example, R
(Red), G (green), B (blue), and the like, but the three primary colors of Y, M, and C may be used to mix these to form a three-dimensional object 42. There is an effect that all color components such as intermediate colors can be colored.

Further, in the case of reproducing black in the colored portion of the three-dimensional structure 42, black can be expressed by discharging three colors of Y, M, and C, but a clearer black can be reproduced. For this purpose, a discharge nozzle for discharging black ink may be separately provided.

<2-4. Configuration of Nozzle Head> Next, a configuration example of the nozzle head 35 in the three-dimensional printing apparatus 30 will be described.

Each ejection nozzle 3 in the nozzle head 35
Each of 5a to 35d, 36a, and 36b is provided with a pressure generating means such as a piezoelectric actuator, and a predetermined pressure is applied to the ink or the resin in a molten state supplied into the nozzle by the pressure generating means. It is configured such that droplet-shaped ink or resin is ejected from the nozzle tip.

With such a configuration, the drive control unit 12 allows the ejection nozzles 35a to 35d, 36a, 36
The pressure generating means b can be independently driven and controlled, whereby the discharge of each color ink or resin can be individually controlled.

In addition, since each of the discharge nozzles provided in the nozzle head 35 can be controlled individually,
Several embodiments are also conceivable for the configuration example of the nozzle head 35.

First, in the nozzle head 35 that can be individually controlled as described above, a nozzle unit in which a plurality of ejection nozzles 35a to 35d, 36a, and 36b are linearly arranged as shown in FIG. It is conceivable to arrange a plurality of them in parallel.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a nozzle head 35 for coloring a three-dimensional structure, and FIG.
8A shows a configuration example in which four types of inks of three primary colors and white are ejected, and two types of resins, that is, a modeling resin and a supporting portion resin, are ejected. FIG. It shows a configuration example of ejecting black ink by
(C) shows a configuration example in which a white resin is used as the modeling resin, and four colors of B, G, R and black other than Y, M, and C are used as the colors of the ink. In addition, Y is yellow ink, M is magenta ink, C is cyan ink, W is white ink, Pa is modeling resin, Pb is support resin, K is black ink, and B is blue ink. , G are green ink, R is red ink, and P is a discharge nozzle for discharging white resin, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 18, a plurality of discharge nozzles 35a to 35h, which are coloring nozzles, are arranged in a straight line in two rows in the Y direction. Discharge nozzles 36a to 36c for forming resin and support part resin are provided on the X direction side of 35h to form one nozzle unit 37. By arranging a plurality of the nozzle units 37 in the Y direction, a plurality of discharge nozzles can be arranged in a matrix, so that efficient and reliable coloring can be performed. For example, when the nozzle head 35 is moved in the X direction, the Y
Since the modeling and coloring can be performed at the same time by setting the width in the direction to one scanning, the modeling and coloring can be performed efficiently, and the modeling time can be reduced.

Generally, when the viscosity of resin and ink is compared, the viscosity of ink is lower. Therefore, the pressure generating means for discharging ink as droplets is smaller than the pressure generating means for discharging resin as liquid drops. Can be configured on a scale. That is, the discharge nozzles 35a to 35h for ink can be configured to be smaller than the discharge nozzles 36a to 36c for resin, and as a result, the discharge nozzles 35a for ink
That is, the nozzle diameter of ~ 35h can be made smaller than the nozzle diameter for resin.

Therefore, in this embodiment, FIG.
As shown in (c), the discharge nozzle 35a of the coloring nozzle
Discharge nozzle 3 whose nozzle diameter is up to 35 h is a modeling nozzle
It is configured to be smaller than 5a to 36c. With such a configuration, it is possible to make droplets at the time of ink ejection smaller than resin droplets, and to perform high-definition coloring on the three-dimensional structure 42. Become.

In FIGS. 18A to 18C, the nozzle diameters of the discharge nozzles 35a to 35h are the same as those of the discharge nozzle 36a.
The nozzle diameter is about の of the nozzle diameter, but is not limited to this, and it is clear that an arbitrary nozzle diameter may be adopted based on the viscosity of the ink and the resin.

The axes (that is, the discharge directions) of these discharge nozzles are arranged so as to be parallel to each other. The molding resin is discharged from the discharge nozzle 36a of the nozzle head 35, and the nozzle head 35 further moves in the X direction. Each discharge nozzle 3 which is a coloring nozzle in the process of moving to
The resin is colored on the stage 20 by discharging ink at predetermined timings from 5a to 35d. That is, the drive control unit 12 adjusts the movement timing of the nozzle head 35 in the X direction or the Y direction.
By discharging ink and resin in time series, modeling and coloring can be performed simultaneously in the modeling process.

In FIG. 18C, a discharge nozzle for discharging the resin for the support portion is not provided. However, in the case of a three-dimensional molding apparatus which does not correspond to the overhang shape, the discharge of the resin for the support portion is performed. No nozzles need be provided.

Second, in the nozzle head 35 that can be individually controlled as described above, the discharge nozzles 35 that discharge ink around the discharge nozzles 36a that discharge the molding resin are used.
It is also conceivable to arrange a to 35d.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are diagrams showing the concept of such an arrangement configuration. FIG. 19A is a conceptual diagram viewed from the side, and FIG.
Is a conceptual diagram viewed from above. As shown in FIG. 19B, the discharge nozzles 35a to 35d are arranged concentrically around the discharge nozzle 36a of the molding resin.
As shown in (a), each of the ink ejection nozzles 35a to 35a
Each axis (discharge direction) of 5d is formed by a discharge nozzle 36 of a molding resin.
a so as to intersect with the axis of a.
The resin discharged from 6a can be colored with ink, thereby enabling coloring to be performed simultaneously in the molding process. In FIG. 19, each axis of the discharge nozzles 35a to 35d and the discharge nozzle 36
The position where the axis a intersects is the modeling surface of the stage 20 or the upper end surface of the layer body already formed on the stage 20.

FIG. 20 is a slightly modified configuration of FIG. 19, and FIG. 20A is a conceptual diagram viewed from the side.
(B) is a conceptual diagram seen from above. The ejection nozzles 35a to 35d are arranged concentrically around the molding resin ejection nozzle 36a as shown in FIG. 20 (b), and each ejection for ink as shown in FIG. 20 (a). The point that each axis of the nozzles 35a to 35d and the axis of the discharge nozzle 36a intersect is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 19, but the position where each axis intersects is different. The position where the axis of each discharge nozzle intersects
0 or within the space between the layer formed on the stage 20 and the discharge nozzle. That is, the discharge nozzle 3
When the molding resin is discharged from 6a, coloring with ink is performed before the resin lands on the stage 20 or the layer body. With the configuration as shown in FIG. 20, it is possible to eliminate the restriction on the height dimension between each discharge nozzle and the landing position of the resin.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the position where the axis of each discharge nozzle intersects with the landing position (modeling position) of the resin, so that the thickness of the layered body is increased each time one layered body is formed. It is necessary to lower the stage 20 by the amount.
On the other hand, in the configuration shown in FIG. 20, the resin discharged from the discharge nozzle 36a is colored by ink droplets adhering during the flight, and then landed at the molding position. Since there is no problem as long as it is below the position where the axes of the respective discharge nozzles intersect, it is not necessary to lower the stage 20 by the thickness of the layer each time a layer is formed. It is.

It should be noted that also in the configuration examples of FIGS. 19 and 20,
Similarly to the above, it is preferable that the nozzle diameters of the ejection nozzles 35a to 35d for ink are configured to be smaller than the ejection nozzles 35a for resin. With such a configuration, it is possible to make droplets at the time of ink ejection smaller than resin droplets, and to perform high-definition coloring on the three-dimensional structure 42. Become.

When the discharge nozzles 35a to 35d and 36a configured as shown in FIG. 19 or FIG.
By arranging a plurality of as shown in FIG. 21, it is possible to efficiently and reliably perform color shaping. FIG. 21A shows the nozzle unit 37 of FIG. 19 or FIG.
FIG. 21B shows an example of a nozzle head 35 arranged linearly in the Y direction, and FIG. 21B shows an example of the nozzle head 35 arranged in the XY plane. When a molding gap is generated by scanning the nozzle head 35 having the configuration of FIG. 21A in the X direction, the configuration of FIG. 21B may be employed.

<3. Characteristic operation and effect> In each of the above embodiments, a layer body corresponding to each cross section obtained by cutting the object to be formed at a plurality of parallel planes is formed by discharging a plurality of materials, and such a layer body is sequentially formed. A three-dimensional modeling device 10 that generates a three-dimensional molded object of the modeling object by stacking,
30 has been described.

The three-dimensional modeling apparatuses 10 and 30 use a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white as a plurality of materials to be discharged at the time of performing the three-dimensional modeling, so that the three-dimensional modeling devices 10 and 30 can be manufactured in a short time. It is possible to color the three-dimensional object at a low cost, and it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shades and gradations of the color on the three-dimensional object.

In the first embodiment, a form is described in which a resin is used as a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white. In this case, the plurality of materials are white resin. And a plurality of resins colored with different color components. For this reason, it is possible to color the three-dimensional object in the molding process, and it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shades and gradations of the color.

Further, by including a black resin among a plurality of resins other than the white resin, it becomes possible to reproduce a clear black color for a three-dimensional modeled object.

Further, among a plurality of resins other than the white resin or the white and black resins, a resin colored yellow, a resin colored cyan and a resin colored magenta are included. By mixing the resins described above, it becomes possible to express all the color components in the three-dimensional structure.

On the other hand, in the second embodiment, a molding resin and a coloring ink are used as a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white, and either the molding resin or the coloring ink is used. The form including white is shown. Then, by individually ejecting a modeling resin and a plurality of colors of ink of different color components including white to form a three-dimensional model, it is possible to color the three-dimensional model in the modeling process. It is possible to reproduce color shades and gradations easily and clearly.

By including black ink among the plurality of colors of ink, it becomes possible to reproduce clear black on the three-dimensional model.

Further, by including yellow ink, cyan ink and magenta ink among the plurality of inks, if these inks are mixed, all the color components can be expressed in the three-dimensional structure. Will be possible.

<4. Modifications> While one embodiment of the three-dimensional printing apparatus and the three-dimensional printing method according to the present invention has been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to the above-described one.

For example, in the above description, in order to move the nozzle heads 15, 35 relative to the stage 20, the nozzle heads 15, 35 move in the XY plane, and move in the lamination thickness direction, that is, the Z direction. Has shown an example in which the stage 20 on which the three-dimensional structure is placed is moved up and down. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the stage 20 is fixed and the nozzle heads 15, 35
May move in the XYZ space. However, when it is desired to control the relative positional relationship between the nozzle heads 15 and 35 with respect to the stage 20 with high accuracy and high efficiency, it is preferable to provide the respective moving axes separately and independently.

The configuration of the nozzle heads 15 and 35 is not limited to the above. For example, the arrangement configuration of the nozzle head 15 shown in FIG. 9 can be realized by a modified example shown in FIG. That is, a plurality of ejection nozzles 15a for ejecting Y constitute a nozzle array 17a in which one row is arranged in the X direction, and similarly, a plurality of ejection nozzles 15a for ejecting M, C, W, and S respectively. Are also arranged in one row in the X direction for each material to form the nozzle arrays 17b to 17e. The plurality of nozzle arrays 17a
17e are arranged in a line in the longitudinal direction (X direction). When modeling with such a configuration, the Y direction is the main scanning direction and the X direction is the sub-scanning direction, and the length of each nozzle array in the sub-scanning direction is equal to the width of each nozzle array in the main scanning direction. Only shift. Therefore, with the configuration as shown in FIG. 22, the modeling of the first row is completed when scanning for five rows is performed in the main scanning direction.

As described above, when the stage 20 is moved (downward) with the formation of each layer, in order to improve the modeling accuracy in the layer thickness direction, the previously laminated Is measured by a distance measuring means such as a photoelectric sensor, whereby the height of the next layered body is predicted, and the stage 20 is moved to the height position. preferable.

In the above description, the modeling surface is parallel to the XY plane (that is, horizontal), but the modeling surface does not need to be particularly horizontal.

[0155]

As described above, according to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of materials to be discharged at the time of modeling are made of a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white. Therefore, the coloring of the three-dimensional object can be performed in a short time and at low cost, and the shading and gradation of the color can be easily and clearly reproduced on the three-dimensional object.

According to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention, since the plurality of materials are a plurality of resins colored in different color components including a white resin, the three-dimensional modeling object is formed in the molding process. In addition to being able to perform coloring, it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce shades and gradations of colors.

According to the three-dimensional structure forming apparatus of the third aspect, since the plurality of resins include the black resin, it is possible to reproduce a clear black color on the three-dimensional structure.

According to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of resins include the resin colored yellow, the resin colored cyan, and the resin colored magenta. By mixing these resins, it becomes possible to express all the color components for the three-dimensional structure.

According to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus of the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the plurality of materials include the modeling resin and the plurality of color inks composed of different color components including white, respectively, in the modeling process. In addition to being able to color the three-dimensional object, it is possible to easily and clearly reproduce the shades and gradations of the color.

According to the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since the plurality of color inks include black ink, it is possible to reproduce clear black on the three-dimensional printing object.

According to the three-dimensional printing apparatus of the present invention, since the plural colors of ink include yellow ink, cyan ink and magenta ink, these inks are mixed in the printing process. This makes it possible to represent all color components for a three-dimensional structure.

According to the three-dimensional molding method of the invention, a discharge nozzle for individually discharging a plurality of materials including a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white and a plurality of materials are sequentially laminated. While moving the moving stage relatively,
Since a plurality of materials are ejected from the ejection nozzles based on coloring information, it is possible to color the three-dimensional object in the molding process, and to easily and sharply change the shading and gradation of the color with respect to the three-dimensional object. It becomes possible to reproduce.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a three-dimensional printing apparatus according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of cross-sectional data.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a three-dimensional structure obtained in the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tone expression for cyan.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an expression changing from light cyan to light yellow.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of coloring.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a discharge pattern of a colored resin or the like is changed.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a nozzle head according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a concept of a configuration of a plurality of ejection nozzles arranged concentrically in the first embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a nozzle head according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a division stage.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of cross-sectional data when a division stage is used.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a three-dimensional printing apparatus according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the three-dimensional printing apparatus according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a three-dimensional structure obtained in the second embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a three-dimensional structure obtained in the second embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a nozzle head according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a concept of one configuration of a plurality of ejection nozzles arranged concentrically in the second embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the concept of one configuration of a plurality of ejection nozzles arranged concentrically in the second embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a nozzle head according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a view showing a modification of the configuration of the nozzle head of FIG. 9;

FIG. 23 is a schematic view showing a conventional three-dimensional printing apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

10, 30 Three-dimensional modeling device 11 Computer 12 Drive control unit 13 XY-direction drive unit 14 Z-direction drive unit 15, 35 Nozzle head 15a to 15e, 35a to 35d, 36a, 36b Discharge nozzle 18, 38 Tank unit 19, 39 Melting Part 20 stage 20a division stage 21, 42 three-dimensional structure 22, 43 overhang support

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A layered body corresponding to each cross-section obtained by cutting a modeling object along a plurality of parallel surfaces is formed by discharging a plurality of materials, and the layered body is sequentially laminated to form the layered body. A three-dimensional printing apparatus for generating a three-dimensional printing object, wherein the plurality of materials include a white material and a plurality of colors other than white. 2. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of materials are a plurality of resins colored with different color components including a white resin. . 3. The three-dimensional printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of resins include a black resin. 4. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of resins include a resin colored yellow, a resin colored cyan, and a resin colored magenta. A three-dimensional printing apparatus characterized by the following. 5. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of materials include a modeling resin and a plurality of colors of ink including different color components including white. 3D modeling equipment. 6. The three-dimensional printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of colors of ink include black ink. 7. The three-dimensional printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of color inks include yellow ink, cyan ink, and magenta ink. apparatus. 8. A layered body corresponding to each section obtained by cutting the object to be formed at a plurality of parallel planes is formed by discharging a predetermined material, and the layered body is sequentially laminated to form the layered body. A three-dimensional modeling method for generating a three-dimensional molded object of an object, comprising: a step of generating coloring information for each of the cross sections; and a method of individually separating a plurality of materials including a white material and a material of a plurality of colors other than white. Discharging the plurality of materials from the discharge nozzles based on the coloring information while relatively moving a discharge nozzle that discharges the ink and a stage that sequentially stacks the plurality of materials. A three-dimensional modeling method characterized by the following.