JP2016107637A - Apparatus for molding three-dimensional object and method for molding three-dimensional object - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately form a molded object with a desired decoration.SOLUTION: An apparatus 100 for molding a three-dimensional object is configured to form a three-dimensional molded object, and includes: a head for a reflective ink configured to form a light reflection layer; a head for a decorative ink; a head for a transparent ink; a main scanning driving unit 106; and a sub-scanning driving unit 108. At least the head for a decorative ink and the head for a transparent ink are arranged to be positionally offset from each other in a sub-scanning direction. The head for a reflective ink, the head for a decorative ink and the head for a transparent ink are configured to form a transparent layer between a light reflection layer and a decorative layer, thereby to form the decorative layer, the transparent layer and the light reflection layer in this order from a surface layer side of the molded object to an inner side of the object.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

  The present invention relates to a three-dimensional object forming apparatus and a three-dimensional object forming method.

  As a technique for modeling a three-dimensional solid object, in addition to a sheet lamination method as described in Patent Document 1, a melt deposition method (FDM: Fused Deposition Molding), an inkjet method, an inkjet binder method, and an optical modeling method (SL: Stereo Lithography), powder sintering method (SLS: Selective Laser Sintering), etc. are known.

  Among them, as an ink jet method, a method of laminating a pattern by spraying an ultraviolet curable resin with a 3D printer is frequently used. In this method, the design and mechanism of the appearance and appearance of the final product is converted into data by three-dimensional CAD, and then the data is sliced by a computer and multilayer pattern data is created such that thin plates are superimposed, and UV curable. A three-dimensional object is manufactured by spraying and laminating resin from a head in accordance with pattern data.

  It is also known to apply decoration (pattern or color) to a three-dimensional object formed using such a technique.

JP 2003-71530 A (published March 11, 2003)

  Regarding the three-dimensional modeling by the conventionally known ink jet method, the inventor of the present application ejected ink for modeling and ink for decoration (for example, colored inks of yellow, magenta, cyan, black, etc.) by the ink jet method. It has been found that there is a case where the inks are mixed at the interface between the ink and the ink for decoration and the desired decoration (color recording of characters, images, etc. by the subtractive color mixing method) cannot be realized.

  Such mixing is particularly noticeable in a decorative portion formed on a modeling surface that spreads in a direction perpendicular to the surface direction of each layer to be laminated. This is because the positional accuracy in the surface direction of the ink discharged from the ink jet head is lowered because the ink jet head and the modeled object move relative to each other along the surface direction of the stacked layers. This is because the ink for decoration and the ink for decoration are mixed.

  Then, this invention is made | formed in view of the said subject, and an object of this invention is to provide the solid-object modeling apparatus and solid-object modeling method which solve said subject.

  The inventor of this application discovered the structure which can suppress the problem by the mixing of the above inks regarding the structure of the molded object to model | mold by earnest research. And by further earnest research, regarding the three-dimensional object forming apparatus and the three-dimensional object forming method for forming a three-dimensional object with such a configuration, the ink jet heads for a plurality of uses are arranged at different positions in a so-called staggered arrangement. It has been found that it is preferable. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.

  (Structure 1) A three-dimensional object forming apparatus for forming a three-dimensional object, which is an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of light-reflective ink, and is a light-reflective layer that is a layer of light-reflective ink A reflective ink head for forming a decorative ink and an ink jet head for ejecting ink droplets of a decorative ink that is a decorative ink for a modeled object, and for a decorative ink that forms a decorative layer that is a layer of the decorative ink A head, an inkjet head that discharges ink droplets of transparent ink that is a transparent color ink, a transparent ink head that forms a transparent layer that is a layer of transparent ink, and a preset object in a main scanning direction A main scanning drive unit for causing the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head to perform a main scanning operation of ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the main body; A sub-scanning drive unit for causing the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head to perform a sub-scanning operation that moves relative to the modeled object in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the inspection direction; And at least the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged with their positions in the sub-scanning direction shifted from each other, and the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head By forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, the decorative layer, the transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer are arranged in this order from the surface layer side to the inside of the modeled object. Form.

  When configured in this way, in the modeled object, since the transparent layer is formed between the decorative layer and the light reflecting layer, the light reflective ink forming the light reflecting layer and the decorative ink are mixed. It does n’t fit. More specifically, for example, when the decorative layer is a colored layer formed from an ink containing a colorant, the ink of the decorative layer is mixed with the light-reflecting ink that forms the light reflecting layer. The color is lost and the desired color tone cannot be achieved. On the other hand, when comprised in this way, even if it mixes with the transparent ink of the adjacent transparent layer about the ink which forms a decoration layer, the color of the ink of a decoration layer is not lost. Therefore, in this case, there is no influence on the decoration exhibited by the modeled object. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the modeling thing which gave the desired decoration can be modeled appropriately, for example.

  Further, in this configuration, at least the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged so that their positions in the sub-scanning direction are shifted from each other. More specifically, the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head may be arranged in a staggered arrangement, for example. And when comprised in this way, it can prevent that the size in a main scanning direction becomes large too much about a solid thing shaping apparatus, for example, and can implement | achieve a compact structure. In addition, for example, the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation can be reduced as compared with the case where the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged in an in-line arrangement. In this case, the in-line arrangement means, for example, that a plurality of inkjet heads are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction with their positions in the sub scanning direction aligned.

  Here, the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus having this configuration models a modeled object by, for example, a layered modeling method. In this case, the additive manufacturing method is, for example, a method of forming an object by stacking a plurality of ink layers. In this case, as the ink for forming each layer, it is conceivable to use a curable ink that cures in accordance with predetermined conditions.

  In this case, if the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation increases, for example, it is necessary to increase the output of the curing means for curing the ink. More specifically, for example, when an ultraviolet curable ink (UV ink) that is cured by ultraviolet irradiation is used as the curable ink, it is necessary to use a high-output UV irradiator or the like for the ultraviolet light source used as the curing means. become.

  However, when the output of the ultraviolet light source increases, for example, the size of the device increases, and the device cost may increase significantly. In addition, problems due to leaked light tend to occur. More specifically, for example, when the influence of leakage light increases, for example, ink curing starts around the nozzles of the inkjet head and in the nozzles, and ink non-ejection and deflection tend to occur. In addition, when a large amount of ink is ejected at once and cured, the ink after curing becomes polymerized, which may increase the influence of curing shrinkage. In addition, when a high-output UV irradiator or the like is used, the ink layer may be deformed by generated heat.

  On the other hand, when configured as described above, since the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation can be reduced, such a problem can be appropriately suppressed. More specifically, for example, when modeling is performed using an ultraviolet curable ink, the ink can be appropriately cured using an ultraviolet light source having a smaller output. Moreover, the influence of curing shrinkage, deformation due to heat, and the like can be more appropriately suppressed.

  In addition, when a plurality of inkjet heads that discharge different types of ink are arranged at different positions in the sub-scanning direction by a staggered arrangement or the like as in this configuration, ink droplets are applied to each position of the modeled object. The ejection timing can be different for each inkjet head. Thereby, for example, mixing of different kinds of inks can be prevented more appropriately.

  In addition, when modeling a three-dimensional object by the layered modeling method, in order to suppress the influence of variation in the ejection amount of ink droplets, the layer of ink is flattened using a flattening means such as a roller in the middle of modeling. Is desired. In this case, for example, if a plurality of ink jet heads that discharge different types of ink are arranged in an in-line arrangement, flattening is simultaneously performed on a plurality of types of uncured ink. Therefore, in such a case, ink mixing easily occurs due to the influence of the flattening operation.

  On the other hand, when configured in this way, for example, even when flattening with a roller or the like is performed by changing the timing of ejecting ink droplets to each position of a modeled object for each inkjet head, It is possible to more appropriately prevent mixing. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, the ink layer can be more appropriately flattened. Thereby, for example, a model can be modeled with higher accuracy.

  In this configuration, the decorative ink is, for example, colored ink for coloring. Further, regarding the arrangement of the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head, the fact that the positions in the sub-scanning direction are shifted from each other means that the positions in the sub-scanning direction do not overlap as in a staggered arrangement, for example. In addition, a decorative ink head and a transparent ink head are disposed. Moreover, the position in the sub-scanning direction does not overlap means that, for example, the position in the sub-scanning direction does not substantially overlap with respect to the position of the nozzle row in each of the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head. In this case, the nozzle row is, for example, a row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in the sub-scanning direction. Further, regarding the position of the nozzle row, the position in the sub-scanning direction does not substantially overlap, for example, among the nozzles constituting the nozzle row, at least a portion excluding the dummy nozzle set at the end, The position in the sub-scanning direction does not overlap.

  In this configuration, for example, white ink can be suitably used as the light reflective ink. Moreover, as a white ink, the ink containing a white pigment can be used suitably, for example. If comprised in this way, the light which entered via the decoration layer from the surface layer side of a molded article can be favorably reflected by the light reflection layer formed from the ink containing a white pigment, for example. Thereby, for example, coloring by the subtractive color mixing method can be appropriately performed.

  (Configuration 2) The reflective ink head is arranged with a different position in the sub-scanning direction from each of the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head. In this case, the reflective ink head is disposed in a staggered arrangement with respect to the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head, for example.

  If comprised in this way, a compact structure can be implement | achieved more appropriately about a solid-object modeling apparatus, for example. Further, the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation can be more appropriately reduced. Thereby, for example, a configuration with smaller output can be used as a curing means (such as an ultraviolet light source) for curing the ink. Further, for example, the influence of curing shrinkage, deformation due to heat, and the like can be suppressed more appropriately. Furthermore, for example, by changing the timing of ejecting ink droplets to each position of a modeled object for each inkjet head, it is possible to further mix ink for light-reflective ink, decorative ink, and transparent ink. Can be prevented appropriately.

  (Configuration 3) The transparent ink head forms a first transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, and further forms a second transparent layer on the surface layer side of the decorative layer. .

  When comprised in this way, the surface of a molded article can be protected more appropriately, for example by forming a 2nd transparent layer in the surface layer side of a molded article. More specifically, in this case, the decorative layer is protected by the second transparent layer, so that, for example, discoloration due to friction or fading due to ultraviolet rays can be appropriately prevented. Further, by forming the second transparent layer on the surface layer side, for example, a dense and highly accurate shaped object can be formed.

  (Configuration 4) The transparent ink head compensates the ink filling density of the decoration layer with the transparent ink for the portion where the ink filling density of the decoration layer does not satisfy the predetermined ink filling density only with the decoration ink. In this case, in the decorative layer, the transparent ink is used, for example, as a supplement ink that is an ink that supplements the ink filling density.

  When the decoration layer is formed only with the decoration ink, a portion with a high decoration density has a large amount of ink, and a thin portion has a small amount of ink. As a result, the ink filling density of the decorative layer varies depending on the location, and irregularities and gaps may occur in the decorative layer. When such irregularities and gaps occur, for example, the appearance of the decoration may be impaired due to optical irregular reflection or refraction, or the modeled object may be shaped into a desired shape in the manufacturing process of the modeled object. There is a risk of inability to do so.

  On the other hand, when comprised in this way, the ink filling density of a decoration layer can be appropriately compensated by using a transparent ink as a compensation ink. Moreover, it can suppress appropriately that the above unevenness | corrugations and gaps arise in a decoration layer by this, for example. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the modeling thing of the desired shape which performed the desired decoration can be modeled more appropriately.

  (Configuration 5) The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus models a modeled object by laminating a plurality of layers, and the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head are two of the plurality of layers. About the above layer, a part of decoration layer, a part of transparent layer, and a part of light reflection layer are formed in this order toward the center side from the edge part side of each layer. If comprised in this way, the modeling thing which has a decoration layer, a transparent layer, and a light reflection layer can be modeled more appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 6) The head for transparent ink forms a first transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, and further forms a second transparent layer on the surface layer side of the decorative layer. Each of the two or more layers has a part of the decorative layer between a part of the first transparent layer and a part of the second transparent layer. If comprised in this way, the modeling thing which has a transparent layer also on the surface layer side of a modeling thing can be modeled more appropriately, for example.

  (Structure 7) It has the area | region where the layers which have a part of decoration layer laminated | stacked between a part of 1st transparent layer and a part of 2nd transparent layer, and in the said area | region A portion where a part of a decorative layer included in a certain layer and a part of a decorative layer included in a layer laminated on or under a certain layer do not overlap is included in a certain layer. A part of the decorative layer overlaps with a part of the first transparent layer or a part of the second transparent layer included in a layer laminated above or below a certain layer.

  When comprised in this way, since the decoration layer and the transparent layer have overlapped in the up-and-down direction, for example, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the light reflection layer will be superimposed on the top and bottom of the decoration layer (ratio of overlapping). it can. Further, when the decorative layer and the transparent layer are superposed in the vertical direction, the desired decoration can be realized even if the ink forming the decorative layer is mixed with the transparent ink, for example. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the modeling thing to which the desired decoration was given can be modeled more appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 8) The three-dimensional object forming apparatus further includes a flattening means for flattening the uppermost surface of the formed object being formed, and the transparent ink head is an ink droplet of transparent ink on the decorative ink in the decorative layer. The flattening means flattens at least the transparent ink layer formed on the decorative ink.

  In the case of such a configuration, for example, modeling can be performed with higher accuracy by performing planarization by a planarization unit. In this case, since the transparent ink layer formed on the decorative ink is flattened, it is possible to appropriately prevent the decorative ink from being mixed with other inks at the time of flattening. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the modeling thing under modeling can be planarized more appropriately, for example.

  In addition, as a planarization means, a roller can be used suitably, for example. Further, the flattening means flattens the ink layer by removing a part of the ink in a state before being cured, for example. For example, when modeling is performed using ultraviolet curable ink, the planarization means planarizes the ink layer by removing a part of the ink before irradiation with ultraviolet rays.

  Further, in this configuration, the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged so that their positions in the sub-scanning direction are shifted from each other by a staggered arrangement or the like. In this case, for example, the transparent ink head discharges the transparent ink onto, for example, the cured decorative ink. Further, the flattening means performs flattening on a region where the decorative ink is cured and the transparent ink is uncured, for example. If comprised in this way, planarization can be performed more appropriately only for transparent ink, for example. Further, for example, the ink layer can be appropriately flattened while more reliably preventing the decorative ink from being mixed with other ink.

  (Configuration 9) In the direction perpendicular to the surface layer of the modeled object, the width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer is 150 μm or less. If comprised in this way, it can prevent appropriately that the ink which has light reflectivity, and decorating ink mix, for example, suppressing the influence which arises because the width | variety of a transparent layer becomes large too much. The influence caused by the excessively large width of the transparent layer is, for example, a decrease in color density visually recognized from the outside of the modeled object.

  (Configuration 10) A three-dimensional object modeling method for modeling a three-dimensional object, which is an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of light-reflective ink, and is a light-reflective layer that is a layer of light-reflective ink A reflective ink head for forming a decorative ink and an ink jet head for ejecting ink droplets of a decorative ink that is a decorative ink for a modeled object, and for a decorative ink that forms a decorative layer that is a layer of the decorative ink A head for reflective ink, a head for transparent ink, which is an ink jet head that discharges ink droplets of transparent ink that is transparent color ink, and that forms a transparent layer that is a layer of transparent ink. A main scanning operation for ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the modeled object being modeled in a main scanning direction set in advance in a head and a transparent ink head; A sub-scanning operation that moves relative to the modeled object in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the inspection direction, and at least the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are in the sub-scanning direction. The positions are shifted from each other, and by using a reflective ink head, a decorative ink head, and a transparent ink head, by forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, A decoration layer, a transparent layer, and a light reflection layer are formed in this order from the surface side of the modeled object to the inside. This three-dimensional object modeling method can also be considered as a manufacturing method of a modeled object. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example.

  According to the present invention, for example, it is possible to appropriately model a modeled object with a desired decoration.

It is a perspective view which shows the external shape of one Embodiment of the molded article which concerns on this invention. It is sectional drawing of cutting line AA 'shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram by the side of the nozzle hole of the inkjet head used for manufacture of the molded article shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the manufacture process of the molded article shown in FIG. It is a top view in the middle of the manufacturing process of the molded article shown in FIG. It is a fragmentary sectional view of this model for explaining the merit of the model shown in FIG. It is a fragmentary sectional view of a modeling thing of comparative composition. It is a perspective view which shows the modification of the molded article which concerns on this invention. It is a perspective view which shows sectional drawing of other embodiment of the molded article which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic diagram by the side of the nozzle hole of the inkjet head used for manufacture of the molded article shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the manufacture process of the molded article shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the solid-object modeling apparatus 100 which models the molded article 50 in this embodiment. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a specific configuration of a head unit 102. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the layer of the ink formed in this example.

  Hereinafter, a modeling thing modeled with a solid thing modeling device concerning one embodiment of the present invention and its modeling method (manufacturing method) are explained based on Drawing 1-Drawing 8. This modeled object can be modeled by a three-dimensional modeled apparatus that will be described later with reference to FIGS. Moreover, in the following, the modeled object modeled by this three-dimensional modeled apparatus is referred to as a modeled object of the present embodiment.

  Further, this model is an example of a model that is modeled by the lamination method and the surface of the model is decorated (characters, images, etc. are recorded in color). More specifically, the modeled object is a structure that is three-dimensionally modeled by a layering method (layered modeling method) in which a plurality of layers are stacked. Further, this model is an example of a model that is modeled by the lamination method and the surface of the model is decorated (characters, images, etc. are recorded in color). In the following embodiments, a form in which modeling is performed by a method using an inkjet head (inkjet method) will be described.

[1] Configuration of Modeled Object FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a modeled object 50 of the present embodiment. The modeled object 50 of the present embodiment has a substantially cylindrical shape in which the side surface is curved and swells. The shape of the shaped object according to the present invention and the shape of the shaped object manufactured by the manufacturing method according to the present invention are not limited to the shapes shown in FIG. It can be applied to all shapes such as hollow structures, ring structures, and horseshoe types.

  As one of the characteristic configurations of the present invention, in the present embodiment, the ink containing the second transparent layer and the colorant from the surface layer side (outer peripheral side) to the inner side (center side) of the modeled object 50 ( The colored layer (decorative layer) formed by the decorative ink), the first transparent layer formed by the transparent ink, and the light reflecting layer formed from the ink having light reflectivity are formed in this order. There is in point. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the second transparent layer 4 formed from a transparent ink located on the most surface layer side of the modeled object 50 is visible on the curved side surface of the modeled object 50.

  2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA ′ shown in FIG. The cross section of the model 50 shown in FIG. 2 is a cross section along the XZ plane at the center position of the model 50 with respect to the XYZ coordinate system shown in FIG.

  In the present embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, as an example, a three-dimensionally shaped object 50 is illustrated by laminating 21 layers 50 a in the Z direction. The number of layers is not limited to 21.

[2] Configuration of each layer to be stacked FIG. 5 shows an XY plane of one layer 50a in the vicinity of the middle stage. Each layer 50a has a second transparent layer portion 54, a colored layer portion 53, a first transparent layer portion 52, and a light reflecting layer portion 51 from the outer peripheral side toward the center side. It is formed in order. That is, the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment has the first transparent layer 2, the colored layer 3, and the second transparent layer 4 from the light reflecting layer 1, which is the modeled object body, toward the surface layer side (outer peripheral side). It can also be said that and are coated in this order. The thickness of one layer 50a in the Z direction (vertical direction in the figure) is a value suitable for multicolor formation mainly by subtractive color mixing of the colored layer 3, and is in the range of 5 μm to 50 μm. A preferable range in the case of forming a layer by the ink jet method is 10 μm to 25 μm.

  Here, in this embodiment, although the light reflection layer 1 is regarded as a modeled object main body, the light reflecting layer may or may not belong to the modeled object main body. That is, the molded object body or cavity separate from the light reflecting layer is in the center of the modeled object, and the modeled object body (which may not have light reflectivity) is directed to the surface layer side (outer peripheral side). The light reflecting layer, the first transparent layer, the colored layer, and the second transparent layer may be formed in this order. Or you may consider the core part (it does not need to have light reflectivity) and the light reflection layer 1 formed in the surface as a molded article main body.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of layers 50 a are stacked in the Z direction, so that a portion 54 of the second transparent layer of each layer 50 a is generally connected to the outermost peripheral surface direction of the modeled object 50, so that the second transparent Layer 4 is formed. Further, the colored layer 3 is formed by a portion 53 of the colored layer of each layer 50 a being substantially continuous with the outermost surface of the model 50. In addition, a part 52 of the first transparent layer of each layer 50 a is generally connected to the outermost peripheral surface direction of the modeled object 50 to form the first transparent layer 2. Further, a part 51 of the light reflecting layer is substantially continuous with the outermost surface of the model 50 to form the light reflecting layer 1.

  Moreover, even if it sees the surface of the molded article 50 from all directions of X, Y, and Z by arranging in this way, the order of the second transparent layer, the colored layer, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer Therefore, the color tone expressed by subtractive color mixture can be recognized.

  The dimension in the XY plane direction of the portion 52 of the first transparent layer is set slightly wider than the dimension of the portion 53 of the colored layer with which the portion 52 of the first transparent layer is in contact with the top and bottom. And prevention of mixing of the inks constituting the light reflection layer 1 can be ensured.

  The dimension of the second transparent layer portion 54 in the XY plane direction is set to be slightly wider than the dimension of the colored layer portion 53 with which the second transparent layer portion 54 is vertically contacted. Can be more reliably protected.

  The width of the shaped object 50 along the Z direction (hereinafter referred to as the thickness in the Z direction, which can also be referred to as the height in the Z direction) is not limited, and the thickness in the Z direction of the layer 50a (high) ) Can also be set as appropriate depending on the number of layers. Further, as will be described later, in this embodiment, since the ink-jet method is used for lamination, the thickness in the Z direction of the layer 50a that can be realized by the lamination method may be considered. For example, the thickness of the layer 50a in the case of forming a layer of an ultraviolet curable ink to be described later by the inkjet method is 5 μm to 20 μm depending on the size of the ink droplets. The same data may be stacked and larger ink droplets may be used. In that case, the data amount can be reduced and the modeling speed can be increased.

[3] Configuration of the Light Reflecting Layer 1 (Part 51 of the Light Reflecting Layer) The light reflecting layer 1 (part 51 of the light reflecting layer) is a layer formed of light reflective ink. It has a light reflectivity that can reflect light in the entire visible light region at least on the surface of the colored layer.

  Specifically, the light reflection layer 1 (a part 51 of the light reflection layer) can be formed from an ink containing a metal powder or an ink containing a white pigment, but is preferably formed from a white ink. By forming from a white ink, the light which entered from the surface layer side of the molded article in the light reflection layer 1 can be favorably reflected, and coloring by subtractive color mixture can be realized.

  In the present embodiment, the modeled body is configured by the light reflecting layer 1, but when the light reflecting layer 1 is formed on the surface of a separate modeled body that may not have light reflectivity, The thickness of the light reflecting layer 1, that is, the width from the outer peripheral side to the center side direction of the portion 51 of the light reflecting layer shown in FIG. 2 (hereinafter referred to as the thickness of the light reflecting layer 1) is 5 μm to 20 μm at a minimum. can do. The present invention is not limited to this numerical range.

[4] Configuration of first transparent layer 2 (first transparent layer portion 52) The first transparent layer 2 (first transparent layer portion 52) is formed of a transparent ink.

  Here, the transparent ink may be any ink that can form a transparent layer having a light transmittance of 50% or more per unit thickness. If the light transmittance per unit thickness of the transparent layer is less than 50%, the light transmission is undesirably blocked, and the molded article cannot exhibit a desired color tone due to subtractive color mixing, which is not desirable. Preferably, an ink having a light transmittance of 80% or more per unit thickness of the transparent layer is used, and an ink having a light transmittance of 90% or more per unit thickness of the transparent layer is more preferably used. .

  By disposing the first transparent layer 2 (a part 52 of the first transparent layer) between the light reflecting layer 1 (a part 51 of the light reflecting layer) and the colored layer 3 (a part 53 of the colored layer). It is possible to avoid mixing the colored ink forming the colored layer 3 and the ink forming the light reflecting layer 1. Even if the colored ink that forms the colored layer is mixed with the transparent ink that forms the first transparent layer, the color of the colored layer is not lost, and therefore, an undesirable change in color tone is not caused. Therefore, it is possible to realize a shaped article that exhibits a desired color tone (decoration) in the colored layer 3.

  The width along the center side direction from the outer peripheral side of the portion 52 of the first transparent layer (hereinafter referred to as the thickness of the first transparent layer) is 5 μm to 20 μm at the minimum in the decorative portion on the surface perpendicular to the stacking direction. is there. The present invention is not limited to this numerical range.

[5] Configuration of Colored Layer 3 (Colored Layer Part 53) The colored layer 3 (colored layer part 53) is formed of a colored ink containing a colorant.

  Examples of the ink containing a colorant (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a colored ink) include yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), and light-colored inks. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and red (R), green (G), blue (B), orange (Or), or the like may be added. It is also possible to use metallic, pearl and phosphor colors. In order to express a desired color tone, one or more of these colored inks are used.

  Incidentally, the amount of the colored ink used for forming the colored layer 3 (colored layer portion 53) varies depending on the desired (desired) color tone. Therefore, in the case of a light color tone with a low density, the ink filling density of the colored layer 3 does not reach a predetermined ink filling density with colored ink alone, and unevenness is formed in the height in the Z direction, or X, Y There is a case where a dent without colored ink is formed in the middle along the direction. In any case, inconvenient irregularities are generated in the shaped article formed by the lamination method as in this embodiment, which is not preferable. In particular, in the case of a vertical modeling surface near the middle of the laminated structure shown in FIG. 2, when the ink is formed by the error diffusion method, one cross section of the colored layer 3 has a filling density of a total of four drops of two ink drops vertically and horizontally. The number of colored inks is 4 drops at the maximum (maximum density) and 0 at the minimum (zero density, that is, white), so in the case of the minimum, a gap space of 4 drops may be formed, The quality is greatly impaired from both the modeling and color aspects.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the colored layer 3 (colored layer portion 53) is filled with the supplementary ink at a location where the ink filling density of the colored layer 3 (colored layer portion 53) does not satisfy the predetermined ink filling density with only the colored ink. The ink filling density is compensated. That is, the colored layer 3 (the colored layer part 53) is formed so that the total density (number of ink droplets) of the colored ink and the supplemental ink is constant. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the dent mentioned above can be avoided and the shape of the molded article 50 can be modeled closely.

  Since the discharge amount of the colored ink and the landing position of each color ink configured in the colored ink are known in advance, the compensation amount and the compensation position (landing position) of the compensation ink can be determined by taking these into account. This determination can be made in the inkjet head device 10 or another control device (not shown). In this way, the amount of ink to be removed can be reduced by minimizing the amount of compensation.

  Further, by supplementing the ink filling density with the supplementary ink, the surface formed by the colored layer 3 becomes flat, so that a glossy feeling can be given.

  The supplementary ink may be any ink that does not adversely affect the color tone to be exhibited in the colored layer 3 (colored layer portion 53). As an example, the first transparent layer 2 (first transparent layer portion 52) is used. ) And the second transparent layer 4 (a portion 54 of the first transparent layer) can be used.

  The thickness of the colored layer 3, that is, the width from the outer peripheral side to the center side direction of the portion 53 of the colored layer shown in FIG. 2 (hereinafter referred to as the thickness of the colored layer 3) is, for example, 5 μm to 20 μm. Can do.

  In addition, although this embodiment demonstrates based on the colored layer 3, this invention is not limited to a colored layer, If it is a decoration layer, there will be no restriction | limiting in particular.

[6] Configuration of Second Transparent Layer 4 (Part 54 of Second Transparent Layer) The second transparent layer 4 (part 54 of the second transparent layer) is the first transparent layer 2 (first transparent layer). It is formed using the transparent ink described in part 52) of the layer. The second transparent layer 4 and the first transparent layer 2 may be formed using the same type of transparent ink, or may be formed using different types of transparent ink.

  The thickness of the second transparent layer 4, that is, the width along the center side direction from the outer peripheral side of the portion 54 of the second transparent layer shown in FIG. 2 (hereinafter referred to as the thickness of the second transparent layer 4). Can be, for example, 10 μm to 100 μm.

  The second transparent layer 4 not only functions as a protective layer for the colored layer 3, but also makes it possible to manufacture a molded object densely in the present invention (this embodiment) that employs a lamination method. Has an advantageous effect.

  That is, if the colored layer 3 constitutes the outermost layer of the modeled object 50, that is, if a portion 53 of the colored layer is located at the end most in each layer 50a shown in FIG. There is a possibility that (a part 53 of the colored layer) cannot be formed with high accuracy. However, the colored layer 3 (the colored layer portion 53) is formed by forming the second transparent layer 4 (a portion 54 of the second transparent layer) on the outermost layer of the modeled object 50 as in the present embodiment. Since it forms accurately, it can contribute to exhibiting a desired color tone by the 2nd transparent layer 4 (part 54 of a 2nd transparent layer).

  In addition, if the colored layer 3 constitutes the outermost layer of the modeled object 50, the colored layer 3 is exposed, so that discoloration due to rubbing and fading due to ultraviolet rays are likely to occur. However, since the 2nd transparent layer 4 (part 54 of a 2nd transparent layer) is formed in the outermost layer of the molded article 50 like this embodiment, decoloring and fading can be prevented.

[7] Manufacturing Method of Modeled Object Next, a manufacturing method for manufacturing the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a view showing the lower surface of the inkjet head device 10 used in the manufacturing method. FIG. 4 is a view schematically showing a state in the process of manufacturing the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment.

  On the lower surface of the inkjet head device 10, roughly divided, three inkjet heads 11 </ b> H to 13 </ b> H are mounted. As shown in FIG. 3, the arrangement positions of the first inkjet head 11H, the second inkjet head 12H, and the third inkjet head 13H are shifted along the X direction. In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the first ink jet head 11H, the second ink jet head 12H, and the third ink jet head 13H are arranged at different positions along the Y direction. That is, the inkjet heads 11H to 13H are arranged in a so-called staggered arrangement.

  The first inkjet head 11H includes a cyan ink nozzle 10 (C) for discharging cyan ink, a magenta ink nozzle 10 (M) for discharging magenta ink, and a yellow ink nozzle 10 (Y for discharging yellow ink). ) And a black ink nozzle 10 (K) for discharging black ink. The order and number of the nozzles 10 (C), 10 (M), 10 (Y), and 10 (K) are not limited to those shown in FIG. Each of the inks ejected from these nozzles is a colored ink used for forming the colored layer 3 (colored layer portion 53) shown in FIG.

  The second inkjet head 12H is provided with a white ink nozzle 10 (W) for discharging white ink (W). This white ink (W) is an ink used for forming the light reflecting layer 1 (a part 51 of the light reflecting layer) shown in FIG.

  The third inkjet head 13H is provided with a transparent ink nozzle 10 (CL) that discharges the transparent ink (CL). This transparent ink (CL) is used to form the first transparent layer 2 (first transparent layer portion 52) and the second transparent layer 4 (second transparent layer portion 54) shown in FIG. This is the ink used.

  The inkjet head device 10 is provided so that the lower surface shown in FIG. 3 faces the layer 50a being formed. Further, the inkjet head device 10 can reciprocate in the X direction, and ejects ink during the movement. Further, the inkjet head device 10 is moved in a predetermined direction in the XYZ coordinate system, or the formation table on which the layer 50a is placed (the formation surface B of the formation table is shown in FIG. 4) is determined in the XYZ coordinate system. The relative position between the inkjet head device 10 and the layer 50a being formed is changed depending on whether the ink is moved in the direction. Either movement may be performed.

  Here, each ink is an ultraviolet curable ink. Therefore, it is necessary to irradiate the discharged ink with ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet irradiator may be mounted on the inkjet head device 10 or may be configured separately. By irradiating with ultraviolet rays, the ink is cured and finally each layer 50a shown in FIG. 2 is formed.

  Below, the manufacturing process of the molded article 50 performed using this inkjet head apparatus 10 is demonstrated using FIG.

  First, the first layer 50a (described as the first layer 50a (1)) is formed on the formation surface B of the forming table.

  In the formation (manufacturing) process of the first layer 50a (1), each ink is ejected from the ink-jet head device 10 at a predetermined timing using an ink-jet method, and is centered from the end side of the first layer 50a. To the side, a part of the second transparent layer, a part of the colored layer, a part of the first transparent layer, and a part of the light reflecting layer are formed in this order.

  The process of forming (manufacturing) the first layer 50a (1) will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 4 (a) to 4 (c).

  In step S1 shown in FIG. 4A, a step of forming the second transparent layer portion 54 using the transparent ink and forming the first transparent layer portion 52 using the transparent ink is performed. In this step, the inkjet head device 10 is moved in the positive direction along the X axis, and the transparent ink is ejected from the transparent ink nozzle 10 (CL) shown in FIG. After forming an ink reservoir of transparent ink by landing at a position to become a portion 54 of the first transparent layer and a position to become a portion 52 of the first transparent layer, the ink reservoir is irradiated with ultraviolet rays and cured. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4A, a first transparent layer portion 52 and a second transparent layer portion 54 are formed.

  Subsequently, in step S2 shown in FIG. 4B, the inkjet head device 10 is moved in the negative direction along the X axis, and white ink (W) as light-reflective ink is whitened at a predetermined timing. An ink reservoir is formed by discharging from the ink nozzle 10 (W), and this is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, as shown in FIG.4 (b), the part 51 of a light reflection layer is formed.

  Subsequently, in step S3 shown in FIG. 4 (c), the inkjet head device 10 is moved in the positive direction along the X axis, and the colored layer forming ink composed of the colored ink and the supplementary ink is added to both of them at a predetermined timing. The ink is discharged so that the total amount of ink is constant, and is cured by ultraviolet rays. Here, the predetermined timing refers to the first inkjet head at a position where the colored layer forming ink can be ejected to a region between the first transparent layer portion 52 and the second transparent layer portion 54 formed in step S1. This is the timing when each 11H nozzle is present. At this timing, a predetermined amount of ink droplets are ejected using an ink jet method to form an ink reservoir, which is cured by irradiating it with ultraviolet rays. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4C, a colored layer portion 53 having a desired color tone is formed between the first transparent layer portion 52 and the second transparent layer portion 54.

  Through the steps S1 to S3, the first layer 50a (1) is completed. The first layer 50a (1) has the same form as the top view of the layer 50a shown in FIG. Step S1 and step S2 may be switched in order. Steps S2 and S3 may also be switched in order.

  When the first layer 50a (1) is completed, a new layer 50a (described as the second layer 50a (2)) is formed (stacked) on the first layer 50a (1).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 2, the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment has a gradually increasing size (area) along the XY plane of the layer 50 a that is laminated from the lowest to the middle of the laminate. Thus, when manufacturing the modeling object 50 of a shape which becomes large along a lamination direction regarding a cross section using the inkjet method, the edge part of the upper layer 50a to laminate | stack is already formed of the lower layer 50a. The shape protrudes to the side rather than the end. In order to form a structure that protrudes in this way, a support material layer may be formed.

  FIG. 4D illustrates the step of forming the second layer 50a (2), but the colored layer portion 53 (2) included in the second layer 50a (2) is the first layer. 50a (1) is formed so as to overlap with a portion 54 (1) of the second transparent layer. Thus, since the second layer 50a (2) has a larger size (area) along the XY plane than the first layer 50a (1), the second layer 50a (2) constitutes the end of the second layer 50a (2). The portion 54 (2) of the second transparent layer protrudes laterally from the portion 54 (1) of the second transparent layer constituting the end of the first layer 50a (1). Therefore, the second transparent layer portion 54 (1) of the first layer 50 a (1) is prevented so that the ink to be deposited on the protruding portion does not fall below the protruding portion when forming the protruding portion. The support material 60 is formed on the outer side (side side) than 1).

  It is preferable that the support material 60 can be formed from ink ejected using an inkjet method. Although the support material 60 has such a strength that the layer does not fall even if a layer is formed thereon, the support material 60 is configured by a removable ink because it is a portion that is not included in the molded object 50 in the end. . The ink of the support material 60 is also preferably cured by ultraviolet rays (cured to such an extent that it can be removed in the subsequent process) or water-soluble and can be removed by dissolving in water in the subsequent process.

  The layered product 50 shown in FIG. 2 can be manufactured by repeating the process of laminating the layer 50a in this manner in the X and Y directions to form one layer and then repeating the lamination in the Z direction. In forming a single layer, good modeling and decoration with little unevenness can be obtained by performing known interlace scanning for two-dimensional image formation.

  In the manufacturing method of the present embodiment, the step of forming the second transparent layer portion 54 using the transparent ink, the step of forming the colored layer portion 53 using the colored ink, and the above step using the transparent ink. Forming a part 52 of the first transparent layer, and forming a part 52 of the first transparent layer using an ink having light reflectivity. And the step of forming the second transparent layer portion 54 and then the step of forming the colored layer portion 53 using the colored ink to form the first transparent layer portion 52 and the second transparent layer portion 52. A colored layer portion 53 is formed between the transparent layer portion 54 and the transparent layer portion 54. Thereby, when the part 54 of the second transparent layer forms the part 53 of the colored layer, it functions as an outer moat of the ink reservoir constituting the colored layer, and there is no risk that the ink constituting the colored layer will undesirably spread out. The colored layer portion 53 can be formed with high accuracy.

  A further advantage of forming the second transparent layer portion 54 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a view obtained by removing the support material from the view of FIG. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a modeled object having a comparative configuration. The modeled object of the comparative configuration is the same as the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment in that it is formed by the lamination method, but each layer of the comparative structure is a part of the first transparent layer in the modeled object 50 of the present embodiment. There is no portion corresponding to 52 and a portion 54 of the second transparent layer. That is, the modeled object having the comparative configuration is an aspect in which the light reflecting layer is directly coated with the colored layer. Also in this comparative configuration, the problem occurring in the comparative configuration will be described assuming that the upper layer has a larger size (area) along the XY plane than the lower layer.

  In the comparative structure shown in FIG. 7, the end of the upper layer is constituted by the colored layer 152 (2), and this colored layer 152 (2) is more than the colored layer 152 (1) constituted at the end of the lower layer. Jumping out to the side. For this reason, when the ink for forming the colored layer is ejected to form the protruding portion, the ink may drop below the coloring position.

  Since the color tone of the modeled object is exhibited by the colored layer, if the ink constituting the colored layer falls, the color tone of the modeled object may change from a predetermined color tone.

  On the other hand, the modeled object 50 of this embodiment shown in FIG. 6 forms a part 54 of the second transparent layer at the end of each layer 50a. In FIG. 6, even if the ink for constituting the second transparent layer portion 54 falls, it is the colored layer that determines the color tone, so the color tone is not affected. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to manufacture a highly reliable model 50 that exhibits a desired color tone.

  There are other benefits. For example, if a portion 54 of the second transparent layer is formed in the first layer 50a (1), a wide range (formation allowable region) in which the colored layer included in the second layer 50a (2) can be formed can be secured. There is a merit. Thereby, the precision of manufacture becomes somewhat loose, and it can contribute to the improvement of manufacturing efficiency.

  Note that the merit that a wide formable region can be secured is achieved even when the second transparent layer portion 54 is formed after the colored layer portion 53. Accordingly, the present invention includes an embodiment in which the second transparent layer portion 54 is formed after the colored layer portion 53.

  Moreover, since the modeled object 50 of this embodiment becomes the form which coated the surface of the colored layer 3 with the 2nd transparent layer 4, the 2nd transparent layer 4 also has a function as a protective layer of the colored layer 3. ing.

  In FIG. 4, the case where a layer having a larger size (area) along the XY plane than the lower layer is stacked has been described. This can be said to relate to the production of the lower half of the structure 50 in FIG.

  Although the manufacturing method described above can be basically applied to the manufacturing of the upper half structure when the modeled object in FIG. 1 is divided into two parts, the upper half of the modeled object 50 is manufactured as shown in FIG. The upper colored layer is provided closer to the center side of the layer 50a than the lower colored layer, and a portion 53 of the upper colored layer is superimposed on a portion 52 of the lower first transparent layer. ing. Further, a part 54 of the upper second transparent layer is superimposed on a part 53 of the lower colored layer.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, in the upper half of the model 50, the lower layer has a larger size (area) along the XY plane than the layer to be stacked. For this reason, there is almost no possibility that the ink constituting the upper colored layer falls. In addition, when manufacturing this upper half, it is not necessary to form a support material.

  The modeled object of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a first transparent layer portion 52, a colored layer portion 53, and a second layer in the lowermost layer and its neighboring layers, and the uppermost layer and its neighboring layers. A layer consisting of only a part 54 of the transparent layer, a layer consisting only of a part 53 of the colored layer and a part 54 of the second transparent layer, and a layer consisting only of the part 54 of the second transparent layer. . With such a laminated structure, it is possible to realize a structure in which the entire surface of the model is covered with the second transparent layer 4, the colored layer 3, and the first transparent layer 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the upper surface and the lower surface of the shaped object include a second transparent layer, a colored layer, and a first transparent layer as in a laminated structure shown in FIG. The structure may be omitted.

[8] Modification (Modification 1)
It can be said that the molded object 50 of the present embodiment has the first transparent layer 2, the colored layer 3, and the second transparent layer 4 formed along the surface shape of the light reflecting layer 1. However, this invention is not limited to this, For example, the shape of the molded article shown in FIG. 8 may be sufficient.

  The shape of the shaped object shown in FIGS. 8A to 8D is obtained by utilizing the fact that the end of each layer 50a (FIG. 2) is a portion 54 of the second transparent layer. The shape of the second transparent layer 4 is not the shape along the surface shape of the light reflecting layer 1, and the second transparent layer 4 is formed as shown in FIGS. It is good also as a desired shape including the colored layer 3, the 1st transparent layer, and the structure which consists of a light reflection layer.

  The aspect which includes the modeled object in the second transparent layer 4 as in Modification 1 may be carried out when the modeled object is a mechanically weak structure. In other words, it is effective for modeling legs and wings for insects, flower stems and petals. When living things and plants are used as specimens and decorations, they can be returned to nature as they are by taking them in with a 3D scanner. Furthermore, since the above-mentioned support material is unnecessary, no waste material is generated and the system is naturally friendly.

  8A, the second transparent layer 4 forms a hexahedron, and has a spherical structure composed of the colored layer 3, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer. . The entire structure shown in FIG. 8A can be manufactured using the same manufacturing method as in FIG.

  A model 50 shown in FIG. 8B has a structure in which a second transparent layer 4 includes a doll composed of the colored layer 3, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer. The transparent layer 4 is a stationary-type shaped object 50 having a shape that allows the entire shaped object to stand on its own. This stationary type shaped object 50 can also be manufactured (produced) using the manufacturing method described in the above-described embodiment.

  A model 50 shown in FIG. 8C has a structure in which the second transparent layer 4 includes a doll composed of the colored layer 3, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer. This is a strap-type shaped article 50 in which a hole 70 is formed in a part of the transparent layer 4. For example, it can be realized as a strap or key chain attached to a mobile phone. The hole 70 may be formed in a part of the second transparent layer 4 at the same time as the outer shape is formed by the second transparent layer 4. If a hole is formed in the second transparent layer 4, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to make a hole in the doll itself composed of the colored layer 3, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer.

  The model 50 shown in FIG. 8D has a structure in which the second transparent layer 4 includes the upper body portion of the doll composed of the colored layer 3, the first transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer. This is a model 50 in which a decorative three-dimensional image 71 configured by a mark, a frame, a light color, or the like is applied on the surface of the second transparent layer 4 or inside the second transparent layer 4. Further, the shaped object 50 is provided with a character area 72 for writing characters such as a date, a person name, or a place name on the surface of the second transparent layer 4 or inside the second transparent layer 4. The decorative three-dimensional image 71 and the character area 72 may be formed at the same time as the outer shape is formed by the second transparent layer 4. In addition to the decorative three-dimensional image 71 and the character area 72, other additional information may be formed on the surface of the second transparent layer 4 or inside the second transparent layer 4.

  In FIGS. 8B to 8D, the integrated doll is included in the second transparent layer 4, but the number of dolls included in the second transparent layer 4 is limited to this. It is not a thing.

  In addition, when the molded article concerning this invention has a ring shape, a colored layer can be provided not only in the outer peripheral end part vicinity of a ring but in an inner peripheral end part vicinity. In short, a colored layer can be provided on the surface of the modeled article, and a second transparent layer can be provided on the colored layer.

  In addition, the second transparent layer 4 is not formed in a desired shape as in the present modification, but the second transparent layer 4 is shaped along the surface shape of the light reflecting layer 1 as in the above embodiment. It may be formed as follows, and the obtained shaped article may be enclosed in a resin of an arbitrary shape.

(Modification 2)
The shaped object 50 of the present embodiment has the second transparent layer 4 as the outermost layer, but the object of the present invention is to form the first transparent layer between the colored layer and the light reflecting layer. Can be achieved. Therefore, even if it is modeling object 50 'shown to sectional drawing shown in FIG. 9, it can be set as one Embodiment of this invention. Below, this modification 2 is demonstrated based on FIGS. 9-11. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a modeled object 50 ′ of the second modification, and corresponds to FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the lower surface of the inkjet head device used for manufacturing the modeled object 50 ′ of the second modification. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a manufacturing process of the shaped object 50 ′ of the second modification.

  The difference between the modeled object 50 ′ of the second modified example and the modeled object 50 of the above embodiment is that the modeled object 50 ′ of the second modified example is formed on the outermost layer of the modeled object 50 of the embodiment. The second transparent layer 4 is not provided, and the colored layer 3 forms the outermost layer.

  Each layer 50'a constituting the model 50 'of the second modification shown in FIG. 9 is provided with a part 54 of the second transparent layer disposed at the end of the layer 50a (FIG. 2) of the embodiment. It is not done.

  Also in the modeled object 50 ′ shown in FIG. 9, the first transparent layer portion 52 is formed between the colored layer portion 53 and the light reflecting layer portion 51 for each layer 50′a. It is possible to avoid mixing the colored ink contained in the portion 53 of the ink and the ink constituting the portion 51 of the light reflecting layer. Even if the colored ink contained in the part 53 of the colored layer is mixed with the transparent ink constituting the part 52 of the first transparent layer, no adverse change is caused in the color tone of the part 53 of the colored layer. Therefore, it is possible to realize a shaped article that exhibits a desired color tone in the colored layer.

  A manufacturing method for manufacturing the modeled object 50 ′ shown in FIG. 9 will be described. A model 50 ′ shown in FIG. 9 can be manufactured using, for example, the inkjet head device 10 ′ shown in FIG.

  Two inkjet heads 11H ′ and 12H ′ are mounted on the lower surface of the inkjet head device 10 ′ shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the first inkjet head 11H ′ and the second inkjet head 12H ′ are displaced in the arrangement direction along the X direction and are displaced in the Y direction. .

  The first inkjet head 11H ′ is the same as the first inkjet head 11H shown in FIG.

  The second inkjet head 12H ′ is provided with a white ink nozzle 10 (W) that discharges a white ink (W) that is an ink used to form the light reflecting layer 1 (a part 51 of the light reflecting layer). In addition, a transparent ink nozzle 10 (CL) for discharging the transparent ink (CL) is provided.

  Below, the manufacturing process of the molded article 50 'performed using this inkjet head apparatus 10' is demonstrated using FIG.

  In step S1 ′ shown in FIG. 11A, a step of forming the first transparent layer portion 52 using the transparent ink and forming the light reflecting layer portion 51 using the white ink (W) is performed. . In this step, the inkjet head device 10 ′ is moved in the negative direction along the X axis, transparent ink is ejected from the transparent ink nozzle 10 (CL) at a predetermined timing, and white ink (W ) Are ejected from the white ink nozzle 10 (W) and landed at a position to be a part 52 of the first transparent layer and a position to be a part 51 of the light reflecting layer, thereby forming an ink reservoir, This is UV cured. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 11A, the first transparent layer portion 52 and the light reflecting layer portion 51 can be formed.

  Subsequently, in step S2 ′ shown in FIG. 11B, the inkjet head device 10 ′ is moved in the positive direction along the X axis, and the colored layer forming ink containing the colored ink is ejected at a predetermined timing. Then, the ink reservoir is formed by landing on a position to become a portion 53 of the colored layer, and the ink reservoir is irradiated with ultraviolet rays to be cured.

  A certain layer 50'a is completed through these steps S1 'to S2'. Note that the support member 60 described in the above embodiment is also formed in the second modification.

  When the layer 50′a shown in FIG. 11 (b) is completed, a new layer 50′a is formed on the layer 50′a shown in FIG. 11 (b) in the same manner as steps S1 ′ to S2 ′. To do.

  Specifically, in step S3 ′ shown in FIG. 11C, the first transparent layer portion 52 and the light reflecting layer portion 51 are formed in the same manner as step S1 ′. In step S3 ′, as described in the embodiment, the upper layer 50′a needs to be formed larger in size (area) along the XY plane than the lower layer 50′a. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11C, the first transparent layer included in the upper layer 50'a is formed on the portion 53 of the colored layer included in the lower layer 50'a completed up to step S2 '. The transparent ink is landed so that the part 52 of the layer overlaps. At the same time, the light reflecting layer portion 51 included in the upper layer 50 ′ a overlaps the light reflecting layer portion 51 and the first transparent layer portion 52 included in the lower layer 50 ′ a. As described above, the white ink (W) is landed to form an ink reservoir, and this is cured with ultraviolet rays.

  Subsequently, in step S4 ′ shown in FIG. 11D, the colored layer forming ink is ejected at a predetermined timing in the same manner as in step S1 ′, and landed at a position where the colored layer becomes a part 53, thereby collecting the ink. Form. The predetermined timing means that the colored layer forming ink is placed outside the first transparent layer portion 52 included in the upper layer 50 ′ a that does not overlap the colored layer portion 53 included in the lower layer 50 ′ a. This is the timing at which ejection is possible. A portion 53 of the colored layer included in the upper layer 50 ′ a is formed by irradiating the formed ink reservoir with ultraviolet rays and curing it.

  By repeating the process of laminating the layer 50′a as described above, a modeled object 50 ′ shown in FIG. 9 can be manufactured.

[9] Solid Object Modeling Device In the above, the operation of modeling the modeled object 50 has been described as the operation of the inkjet head device 10 and the like on which the inkjet head is mounted. However, at the time of actual modeling, it is conceivable to model the modeled object 50 using a three-dimensional modeled apparatus that further includes various configurations other than the inkjet head. Therefore, the configuration example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus used in the present embodiment will be described in detail below.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of the configuration of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 that forms the formation object 50 in the present embodiment. For convenience of explanation, hereinafter, the configuration of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG.

  The three-dimensional object forming apparatus 100 is an apparatus that forms the three-dimensional object 50 by the additive manufacturing method, and includes a head unit 102, a base unit 104, a main scanning driving unit 106, a sub-scanning driving unit 108, and a control unit 110. . In this case, the additive manufacturing method is, for example, a method in which an object is formed by a stacking method in which a plurality of ink layers are stacked.

  In addition, as the ink for forming each layer, it is conceivable to use a curable ink that cures according to predetermined conditions. More specifically, in this example, the modeled object 50 is modeled using an ultraviolet curable ink that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays. Moreover, except the point demonstrated below, the modeling method performed in this example is the same as that of the manufacturing method of the solid object demonstrated using FIGS.

  The head portion 102 is a portion that ejects ink droplets of ink that is a material of the modeled object and the support material. In this case, the ink is, for example, a liquid that is a material of the modeled object and the support material. In this example, the head unit 102 includes a plurality of inkjet heads arranged in a staggered arrangement. The head unit 102 may be a portion corresponding to, for example, the inkjet head device 10 or the inkjet head device 10 ′ described with reference to FIGS. Further, a more specific configuration of the head unit 102 will be described in detail later.

  The platform 104 is a platform member that supports the modeled object 50 being modeled. In the present example, the base unit 104 supports the modeled object 50 at a position facing the head unit 102 by placing the modeled object 50 surrounded by the support material 60 on the upper surface. Moreover, the base part 104 moves to each direction of X, Y, and Z shown in the figure according to control of the control part 110, for example. Thereby, the base part 104 changes the relative position of the molded article 50 with respect to the head part 102 as needed.

  The main scanning driving unit 106 is a driving unit that causes the inkjet head in the head unit 102 to perform a main scanning operation. In this case, the main scanning operation is an operation of ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the modeled object being modeled in a preset main scanning direction (X direction in the drawing). The sub-scanning drive unit 108 is a driving unit that causes the inkjet head in the head unit 102 to perform a sub-scanning operation. In this case, the sub-scanning operation is an operation that moves relative to the modeled object in the sub-scanning direction (Y direction in the drawing) orthogonal to the main scanning direction.

  Note that the main scanning drive unit 106 and the sub-scanning driving unit 108 perform main scanning on the inkjet head in the head unit 102 by, for example, fixing the position of one of the head unit 102 and the base unit 104 and moving the other. The operation and the sub-scanning operation are performed. More specifically, during the main scanning operation, for example, it is conceivable to fix the position of the platform 104 and move the head unit 102 side. In the sub-scanning operation, for example, it is conceivable to fix the position of the head unit 102 and move the base unit 104 side. Further, the configuration for moving in the main scanning operation and the sub-scanning operation may be opposite to the above. Moreover, you may move both the head part 102 and the base part 104 as needed, for example.

  The control unit 110 is, for example, a CPU of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 and controls the operation of each part of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100. According to this example, the modeling object 50 can be appropriately modeled by, for example, the layered modeling method.

  Except for the points described above and below, the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 may have the same or similar configuration as a known three-dimensional object formation apparatus (for example, a 3D printer). For example, although the corresponding drive units are not shown, the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 100 further includes a drive unit that also performs scanning in the vertical direction (Z direction in the drawing) orthogonal to the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. . This scanning in the Z direction is, for example, scanning for keeping the distance between the modeling surface of the model 50 and the head unit 102 within a predetermined range, and each time each layer constituting the model 50 is formed, At least one of the head unit 102 or the base unit 104 is moved in the Z direction. Thereby, the distance between the modeling surface of the modeling object 50 and the head part 102 is adjusted.

  Next, the configuration of the head unit 102 in this example will be described in more detail. FIG. 13 shows an example of a specific configuration of the head unit 102. In this example, the head unit 102 includes a plurality of inkjet heads arranged in a staggered arrangement, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 210, and a flattening roller 212. Each of the inkjet heads includes a plurality (two) of color ink heads 202, a model material head 204, a transparent ink head 206, and a support material head 208.

  In this example, each inkjet head has two nozzle rows 220. The nozzle row 220 is a row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in the sub-scanning direction. The number of nozzle rows 220 in each inkjet head may be one row or three or more rows. Each inkjet head ejects ink droplets of ultraviolet curable ink from each nozzle in the nozzle row 220.

  Further, the staggered arrangement is, for example, arranged so that the direction of the nozzle row 220 in each inkjet head is an angle of 45 ° to 135 ° (mainly 90 °) with respect to the main scanning direction, and In this configuration, a plurality of inkjet heads are arranged (arranged) in two or more rows in the main scanning direction. In this case, the direction of the nozzle row 220 is a direction in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged in the nozzle row 220. In this example, the direction of the nozzle row 220 in each inkjet head is the sub-scanning direction that is 90 ° with respect to the main scanning direction as described above.

  More specifically, the head unit 102 of this example is divided into four regions shown as areas 1 to 4 in the drawing, and an ink jet that shares the use (role) is arranged in each region. Yes. Then, by performing the main scanning operation a plurality of times with the sub-scanning operation in between, ink droplets are ejected in order from the inkjet head in the area on one side in the sub-scanning direction to each position of the modeled object. In this case, in this example, for example, ink droplets are ejected in order from the inkjet head on the area 1 side.

  In each of the areas 1 to 4, for example, inkjet heads having different uses as described below are arranged with the configuration shown in the drawing. For example, as shown in the figure, in area 1, a plurality (two) of color ink heads 202 arranged in the main scanning direction are arranged. In area 2, a plurality (two) of model material heads 204 arranged in the main scanning direction are arranged. In area 3, a plurality of (two) transparent ink heads 206 arranged in the main scanning direction are arranged. In the area 4, a plurality (two) of support material heads 208 arranged in the main scanning direction are arranged. Moreover, the structure of the inkjet head arrange | positioned in each area is not restricted to the structure in a figure, You may vary suitably according to the quality etc. which are calculated | required by a molded article.

  The color ink head 202 is an example of a decorative ink head. In this case, the decorative ink head is an inkjet head that forms a decorative layer, which is a layer of decorative ink, by ejecting ink droplets of decorative ink, which is ink for decoration on a model. . In this example, the color ink head 202 forms a colored layer, which is an example of a decorative layer, by discharging ink droplets of coloring ink, which is an example of decorative ink. I do. In this case, the coloring ink is, for example, a color ink (colored ink) such as yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K).

  Further, as described above, in this example, each color ink head 202 has two nozzle rows 220. Therefore, the total number of nozzle rows 220 in the two color ink heads 202 is four. In this case, it is conceivable that ink droplets of each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, which are coloring process colors, are ejected from each of the four nozzle rows 220. If comprised in this way, coloring with respect to a molded article can be performed appropriately, for example.

  The model material head 204 is an ink jet head that ejects ink droplets of a model material that is a modeling ink, and is formed by stacking layers of model materials, so that at least a modeling region inside the modeled object. Form. In this example, as the model material, white ink which is an example of ink having light reflectivity is used. For example, an ink containing a white pigment can be suitably used as the white ink.

  In addition, by using white ink as modeling ink, in this example, the model material head 204 also functions as a reflective ink head. In this case, the reflective ink head is, for example, an inkjet head that forms a light reflective layer, which is a layer of light reflective ink, by ejecting ink droplets of light reflective ink. If comprised in this way, the light which entered via the decorating layer from the surface layer side of a molded article can be favorably reflected by the light reflection layer, for example. Thereby, for example, coloring by the subtractive color mixing method can be appropriately performed.

  In the modified example of the configuration of the head unit 102, it is also conceivable to use ink other than white ink in the model material head 204. For example, in the model material head 204, it may be possible to use ink dedicated to modeling. In this case, it is preferable that the head unit 102 further includes a reflective ink head separately from the model material head 204. In this case, it is preferable to arrange a plurality of ink jet heads in the head unit 102 including the head for reflective ink in a staggered arrangement.

  The transparent ink head 206 is an example of a transparent ink head, and forms a transparent layer by discharging ink droplets of clear ink. In this case, the clear ink is an example of a transparent ink that is a transparent ink. The transparent layer is a layer of transparent ink. The support material head 208 is an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of ink that is a material of the support material 60 (see FIG. 12).

  The ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is a light source that irradiates ultraviolet rays, and cures the ink layer by irradiating the ink layer formed on the modeling surface of the model with ultraviolet rays. In this example, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is arranged in the main scanning direction with respect to the arrangement of the inkjet heads composed of the color ink head 202, the model material head 204, the transparent ink head 206, and the support material head 208. They are arranged side by side. Further, during the main scanning operation, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 moves in the main scanning direction along with the arrangement of the inkjet heads. Accordingly, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 cures the ink layer in the main scanning operation. Therefore, in this example, when the main scanning operation of the inkjet head in each of the areas 1 to 4 is completed, the ink ejected by the inkjet head in that area is completely cured.

  In FIG. 13, for simplicity of illustration, a configuration in which the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is disposed only on one side in the main scanning direction with respect to the arrangement of the inkjet heads is illustrated. However, in a modified example of the configuration of the head unit 102, for example, the ultraviolet irradiation units 210 may be disposed on both sides in the main scanning direction with respect to the arrangement of the inkjet heads.

  The flattening roller 212 is an example of a flattening unit, and flattens an uppermost surface of a modeled object under modeling by rotating in contact with a layered surface that is a surface of ink to be stacked. As the flattening roller 212, for example, a roller having wettability with ink before curing can be suitably used. In this case, the flattening roller 212 flattens the ink layer by scraping off a part of the ink before curing, for example.

  In this example, the flattening roller 212 is disposed in a region between the plurality of inkjet heads arranged in a staggered arrangement and the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210. Accordingly, the flattening roller 212 performs a flattening operation on the ink layer before being irradiated with ultraviolet rays by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210.

  In addition, when modeling a modeling thing using an inkjet head, a lamination | stacking surface is not normally flat (smooth) by influence, such as dispersion | variation in the discharge amount of the ink droplet from a nozzle. Therefore, it is necessary to flatten the laminated surface by some method. Further, in this case, for example, if flattening is performed after the ink is cured, there is no choice but to remove the ink, so that dust or the like is generated. Therefore, it is preferable to perform the flattening operation before the ink is cured. On the other hand, according to this example, by using the flattening roller 212, it is possible to appropriately perform flattening on a modeled object during modeling.

  Next, the arrangement of the inkjet heads in this example will be described in more detail. As shown in FIG. 13, in this example, the plurality of ink jet heads in the head unit 102 are arranged in a staggered arrangement. In this case, more specifically, for example, inkjet heads of the same application are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction with their positions in the sub scanning direction aligned. For example, the plurality of color ink heads 202 are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction with their positions in the sub scanning direction aligned. The same applies to the plurality of model material heads 204, the plurality of transparent ink heads 206, and the plurality of support material heads 208.

  On the other hand, inkjet heads for different uses are arranged with their positions shifted in the sub-scanning direction. More specifically, for example, the color ink head 202, the model material head 204, the transparent ink head 206, and the support material head 208, which are inkjet heads for different uses, are arranged in the sub-scanning direction as shown in the figure. The positions are shifted from each other.

  When configured in this way, it is possible to appropriately prevent the head unit 102 from becoming too large in the main scanning direction. Thereby, a compact configuration can be appropriately realized for the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 100.

  More specifically, for example, when modeling a three-dimensional object, a large number of inkjet heads are formed by using inkjet heads for various purposes, or by using a plurality of inkjet heads for the same purpose in order to increase the modeling speed. It may be necessary to install. However, when arranging a plurality of inkjet heads in an in-line arrangement, if the number of inkjet heads to be mounted is increased, the head unit 102 becomes longer in the main scanning direction, and the width of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 becomes larger. In this case, the in-line arrangement means, for example, that a plurality of inkjet heads are arranged side by side in the main scanning direction with their positions in the sub scanning direction aligned. On the other hand, in the case of this example, even when the number of inkjet heads in the head unit 102 is large, the configuration of the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 100 can be made more compact.

  In addition, as in this example, when a plurality of inkjet heads in the head unit 102 are arranged in a staggered arrangement, ink droplets are applied to each position of a modeled object for a plurality of inkjet heads that discharge different types of ink. The ejection timing can be different for each inkjet head. Thereby, for example, mixing of different types of ink can be appropriately prevented.

  In addition, when a plurality of ink jet heads are arranged in a staggered arrangement, the ejection of ink droplets by the plurality of ink jet heads is distributed and performed by a plurality of main scanning operations. Therefore, in this case, the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation can be reduced as compared with, for example, a plurality of inkjet heads arranged in an in-line arrangement.

  Here, when the amount of ink ejected within a certain range in each main scanning operation increases, for example, it is necessary to increase the output of a curing unit that cures the ink. More specifically, for example, when modeling is performed using ultraviolet curable ink as in this example, it is necessary to use a high-output UV irradiator or the like as the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210.

  However, when the output of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is increased, for example, the size of the apparatus is increased, and the apparatus cost may be greatly increased. In addition, problems due to leaked light tend to occur. More specifically, for example, when the influence of leakage light increases, ink curing starts around the nozzles of the inkjet head and in the nozzles, and ink non-ejection and deflection tend to occur. In addition, when a large amount of ink is ejected at once and cured, the ink after curing becomes polymerized, which may increase the influence of curing shrinkage. Further, when the output of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is increased, the ink layer may be deformed by the generated heat.

  On the other hand, in this example, by arranging a plurality of ink jet heads in a staggered arrangement, for example, even when many ink jet heads are arranged, as described above, a certain range in each main scanning operation. The amount of ink ejected inside can be appropriately reduced. In addition, this makes it possible to appropriately suppress problems that occur when the output of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 is increased. More specifically, for example, when modeling is performed using an ultraviolet curable ink, the ink can be appropriately cured using an ultraviolet light source having a smaller output. Moreover, the influence of curing shrinkage, deformation due to heat, and the like can be more appropriately suppressed.

  In this example, since the output of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 can be reduced, an LED type light source (UVLED) or the like is preferably used as the ultraviolet irradiation unit 210 instead of a high output ultraviolet light source such as a metal halide lamp. Can do. In this case, since the directivity of ultraviolet irradiation is increased, for example, the generation of leakage light can be prevented more appropriately, and ultraviolet light can be irradiated only to the portion where ink is laminated. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, it is possible to more appropriately suppress the occurrence of ink droplet ejection failure due to leakage light.

  In this example, as described above, the ink layer is flattened by the flattening roller 212 during the modeling. However, when performing flattening by the flattening roller 212, for example, if a plurality of inkjet heads that discharge different types of ink are arranged in an in-line arrangement, different types of ink droplets are used in each main scanning operation. Are simultaneously ejected, and flattening is simultaneously performed on a plurality of types of uncured ink. In such a case, ink mixing easily occurs due to the influence of the flattening operation.

  On the other hand, in this example, by disposing a plurality of ink jet heads in a staggered manner, for example, the timing of ejecting ink droplets to each position of a modeled object can be made different for each ink jet head. it can. This also makes it possible to appropriately prevent ink mixing during, for example, a flattening operation. Therefore, according to this example, for example, the ink layer can be more appropriately flattened. Thereby, for example, a model can be modeled with higher accuracy.

  In addition, in order to prevent ink from being mixed by the configuration of the staggered arrangement, it is possible to perform modeling at a higher speed than in the case of using an inline arrangement, for example. For example, when using an in-line arrangement, it is necessary to perform a plurality of main scanning operations at the same position of the object in accordance with the number of types of inkjet heads to be used in order to prevent ink mixing. It may become. For example, as in this example, when using four types of ink jet heads of a color ink head 202, a model material head 204, a transparent ink head 206, and a support material head 208, an inline arrangement is used. In order to prevent mixing of ink, for example, it is conceivable to use only one type of ink jet head in one main scanning operation. In this case, four main scanning operations are required to form one ink layer. As a result, the time required for modeling greatly increases.

  In addition, when using an in-line arrangement, for example, it may be possible to prevent ink mixing by using only some of the nozzles in the nozzle row 220 in each inkjet head. However, in this case as well, the usage rate of the nozzle is reduced, so that the time required for modeling increases.

  On the other hand, when the staggered arrangement is used as in this example, all the ink jet heads can be used in each main scanning operation without considering ink mixing. Therefore, in this case, for example, the modeling speed can be significantly increased (for example, about 4 times), and the time required for modeling can be significantly decreased (for example, about 1/4), compared with the case where an inline arrangement configuration is used. .

  Next, the ink layer formed by the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 100 will be described in more detail. The three-dimensional object forming apparatus 100 of the present example is configured in the same or similar manner as that described with reference to FIGS. Form. More specifically, for example, using the color ink head 202, the model material head 204, and the transparent ink head 206 in the head unit 102, a transparent layer is formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer. Thus, a colored layer, a transparent layer, and a light reflecting layer are formed in this order from the surface layer side to the inside of the shaped object.

  In this example, the colored layer is an ink layer formed of colored ink by the color ink head 202. The light reflecting layer is an ink layer formed of white ink by the model material head 204. The transparent layer is an ink layer formed of clear ink by the transparent ink head 206. When configured in this manner, for example, in the modeled object, since a transparent layer is formed between the colored layer and the light reflecting layer, a white ink that is a light reflecting ink, and a coloring ink, Will not mix.

  Here, for example, when the white ink and the coloring ink are mixed, the color of the coloring ink is lost, and a desired color tone cannot be realized. On the other hand, in such a configuration, even if the color ink is mixed with the clear ink of the adjacent transparent layer, the color of the color ink is not lost. Therefore, in this case, there is no influence on the decoration exhibited by the modeled object. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to appropriately model a modeled object with a desired decoration, for example.

  In this example, the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer is an example of a first transparent layer. The transparent ink head 206 further forms a second transparent layer on the surface layer side of the colored layer.

  When comprised in this way, the surface of a molded article can be protected more appropriately, for example by forming a 2nd transparent layer in the surface layer side of a molded article. More specifically, in this case, the decorative layer is protected by the second transparent layer, so that, for example, discoloration due to friction or fading due to ultraviolet rays can be appropriately prevented. Further, by forming the second transparent layer on the surface layer side, for example, it is possible to form a dense and highly accurate shaped object.

  Further, in the present example, the color ink head 202, the model material head 204, and the transparent ink head 206 are a plurality of pieces constituting the modeled object, in the same or similar manner as described with reference to FIGS. Two or more of the layers, from the end side to the center side of each layer, a part of the second transparent layer, a part of the colored layer, a part of the first transparent layer, A part of the light reflecting layer is formed in this order. In this case, each of the two or more layers has a part of the colored layer between a part of the first transparent layer and a part of the second transparent layer.

  Further, in this case, the molded article has a region in which layers having a part of the colored layer are laminated between a part of the first transparent layer and a part of the second transparent layer. . In this region, a part of a colored layer included in a certain layer and a part of a colored layer included in a layer laminated on or below a certain layer are not overlapped with each other. A part of the colored layer included in the layer is overlapped with a part of the first transparent layer or a part of the second transparent layer included in a layer laminated on or under a certain layer. Yes.

  When comprised in this way, since the colored layer and the transparent layer have overlapped in the up-down direction, for example, the possibility that the light reflecting layer is superimposed on the upper and lower sides of the colored layer (ratio of overlapping) can be suppressed. And when a colored layer and a transparent layer have overlapped in the up-and-down direction, even if it mixes with a transparent ink about the ink which forms a colored layer, for example, desired decoration can be implement | achieved. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the modeling thing to which the desired decoration was given can be modeled more appropriately, for example.

  Next, the operation for flattening the ink layer will be described in more detail. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ink layer formed in the present example, and illustrates an example of a configuration of a part of the ink layer formed during modeling of a modeled object. Except for the following description, in FIG. 14, the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 11 have the same or similar features as those in FIGS.

  In this example, each inkjet head in the head unit 102 (see FIG. 12) is a part of the light reflecting layer, as in the case described with reference to FIGS. 51, a first transparent layer portion 52, a colored layer portion 53, and a second transparent layer portion 54 are formed. Further, a region of the support material 60 is formed around the modeled object 50.

  Similarly to the case described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11, in this example, the ink filling density of the colored layer (colored layer portion 53) does not satisfy the predetermined ink filling density with only the color ink. The ink filling density of the colored layer (colored layer portion 53) is compensated for by supplementary ink. In this case, clear ink is used as the supplementary ink. More specifically, for example, the transparent ink head 206 (see FIG. 13) uses a clear ink for the portion where the ink filling density of the colored layer does not satisfy a predetermined ink filling density with only the coloring ink. The ink filling density is compensated.

  If comprised in this way, the ink filling density of a colored layer can be compensated appropriately, for example. In addition, for example, it is possible to appropriately suppress occurrence of unevenness and gaps in the colored layer due to variations in ink filling density, for example. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to more appropriately model a modeled object having a desired shape with a desired decoration, for example.

  Further, as described with reference to FIG. 13 and the like, the plurality of inkjet heads in the head unit 102 are arranged in a staggered arrangement. Also, in this example, the color ink head 202, the model material head 204, the transparent ink head 206, and the support material are applied to each ink layer constituting the modeled object and the support material due to the staggered arrangement. The head 208 ejects ink droplets in this order.

  In this case, the transparent ink head 206 ejects clear ink droplets ejected as supplementary ink onto the coloring ink in the colored layer. Therefore, in the state before the flattening by the flattening roller 212 (see FIG. 13), the state of the portion 53 of the colored layer is such that the clear ink is placed on the color coloring ink as shown in the figure. It becomes a state.

  In the flattening operation, the flattening roller 212 flattens the ink layer by scraping off a part of the ink at the uppermost part of the ink layer. More specifically, in the illustrated case, the flattening roller 212 flattens the ink layer by removing the ink stacked above the line (removal line) shown in the drawing. In this case, when paying attention to a portion 53 of the colored layer, the flattening roller 212 flattens the clear ink layer formed on the coloring ink.

  More specifically, in this example, the operation of removing the stacked ink by the flattening roller 212 is performed simultaneously with the ejection of ink droplets by each inkjet head of the head unit 102 during the main scanning operation. Further, in this example, ink droplets are sequentially applied from the inkjet head on the area 1 side to each region of the modeled object 50 by the inkjet head arranged in each region shown as areas 1 to 4 in FIG. Discharge. In this case, the amount of ink droplets ejected by the respective ink-jet heads is the thickness of the ink layer in the colored layer portion 53 at the timing when the ink droplets are ejected by the transparent ink head 206 disposed in the area 3. Is set to reach the removal line. Therefore, according to the present example, for example, during the flattening operation, the portion 53 of the colored layer can be flattened for the clear ink. Accordingly, for example, the flattening by the flattening roller 212 can be performed without destroying the state of the coloring ink.

  Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the coloring ink from being mixed with other ink during the flattening operation. Moreover, this makes it possible to more appropriately planarize the modeled object being modeled.

  In this case, also in each of the other regions, the flattening by the flattening roller 212 is performed when the thickness of each ink layer reaches above the removal line. According to this example, it is possible to appropriately flatten each region of the ink layer.

  Further, in this example, as shown in the drawing, between the light reflecting layer portion 51 and the support material 60, the colored layer portion 53 is composed of the first transparent layer portion 52 and the second transparent layer. Is formed in a region sandwiched between a portion 54 of each of the two. For this reason, the white ink constituting the part 51 of the light reflecting layer, the ink constituting the support material 60, and the coloring ink are not mixed.

  In addition, when using a configuration in which a plurality of inkjet heads are arranged in a staggered arrangement as in this example, different types of ink droplets are not simultaneously ejected to each position of a modeled object, and each type of ink is not After curing, ink droplets of other types of ink are ejected. Therefore, in this respect as well, it is possible to prevent the coloring ink from being mixed with other ink during the flattening operation.

  Further, in this case, at the timing of performing the flattening operation, the coloring ink under the uncured clear ink layer is already cured in the colored layer portion 53. In this case, it can be said that color mixing does not occur in the coloring ink due to the flattening.

  In addition, as a problem caused by mixing the coloring ink and the other color ink, for example, the support surface and the other ink (for example, the coloring ink) are mixed, so that the laminated surface is The problem of matting is also conceivable. On the other hand, according to this example, such a problem can be prevented appropriately.

  As described above, in this example, by using a configuration in which a plurality of inkjet heads are arranged in a staggered arrangement, for example, occurrence of various problems that occur when using an inline arrangement configuration can be appropriately suppressed. it can. Moreover, in the case where modeling is performed by repeating the main scanning operation and the sub-scanning operation as in this example, the modeling speed can be increased. Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is possible to appropriately improve the printing speed while suppressing the occurrence of various problems. Thereby, for example, a model can be modeled more appropriately with high accuracy.

  Further, as described above, the specific arrangement of the inkjet head in the head unit 102 may be modified other than the configuration shown in FIG. More specifically, for example, as described above, the modeling material head 204 may use a dedicated ink for modeling, and a reflective ink head may be further used separately from the modeling material head 204.

  It is also conceivable that the types of ink jet heads disposed in areas 1 to 4 are different from those shown in FIG. For example, when modeling a modeling object that is not colored (colored) on the surface, it is conceivable to perform modeling without using coloring ink or clear ink. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to use the model material head 204 as the ink jet heads in the areas 1 and 2 and use the support material head 208 as the ink jet heads in the areas 3 and 4. Even in such a configuration, by using the staggered configuration, for example, mixing of the modeling ink and the support material ink can be appropriately prevented. In addition, this makes it possible to appropriately prevent a mat feeling from being generated by mixing these inks. Therefore, also when comprised in this way, a modeling thing can be modeled more appropriately with high precision, for example.

  Then, supplementary explanation etc. are given about the characteristic of the transparent layer formed between a light reflection layer and a colored layer (decorative layer) by each above-mentioned composition. First, the effect of forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer will be described in more detail. This transparent layer is a transparent layer corresponding to the first transparent layer 2 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 9, for example. In addition, in FIGS. 1 to 14, a part of the transparent layer is also illustrated as a part 52 of the first transparent layer, for example.

  As described above, at the time of modeling a modeled object, by forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer, the ink constituting the light reflecting layer and the ink constituting the colored layer are Mixing can be prevented appropriately. However, when modeling a colored modeled object, the width of the colored layer is usually set to a certain width or more so that the color can be expressed with a sufficient density (density). In this case, the width of the colored layer is, for example, the width in a direction perpendicular to the surface layer of the modeled object. The surface layer of the modeled object is, for example, the outermost surface of the modeled object. More specifically, the width of the colored layer may be about 300 μm (for example, about 250 to 350 μm). And in this case, simply considering, for example, without forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer, the ink constituting the light reflecting layer and the ink constituting the colored layer are mixed to some extent. However, it seems that the influence on the color (color of the modeled object) visually recognized from the outside of the modeled object is small.

  On the other hand, the inventor of the present application performs various experiments and the like, and even when the width of the colored layer is sufficiently thick, if the transparent layer is not formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer, the color of the modeled object It has been found that this can affect More specifically, for example, when a transparent layer is not formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer, when a model is observed from various angles, the color that is visually recognized easily changes depending on the angle at which the observation is performed. I found. In addition, by cutting the shaped object and confirming the state of the cross section, the change in the appearance of the color is caused by a mixture of the ink that constitutes the light reflecting layer and the ink that constitutes the colored layer. It was confirmed that

  Further, the inventors of the present application have found that such a change in the appearance of the color can be appropriately suppressed by forming a transparent layer between the light reflection layer and the colored layer through further experiments. . That is, by forming a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer, it is possible to appropriately prevent the ink constituting the light reflecting layer from being mixed with the ink constituting the colored layer. Moreover, it can prevent appropriately the color visually recognized by the angle which observes a modeling object by this, for example.

  In addition, the color visually recognized in a molded article can arise also by the state of the surface roughness, the difference in the width of a colored layer, etc., for example. On the other hand, the inventor of the present application forms a transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer in consideration of the difference in the roughness of the surface and the difference in the width of the colored layer. The effect is confirmed.

  Subsequently, a preferable width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer will be described. In this case, the width of the transparent layer is, for example, the width in the direction perpendicular to the surface layer of the modeled object. The inventor of the present application has confirmed the preferable width of the transparent layer by various experiments and the like, and if the width of the transparent layer is set to a width of one dot or more in the resolution of modeling, the light reflection is achieved. It was confirmed that the ink constituting the layer and the ink constituting the colored layer can be appropriately prevented from being mixed. In this case, the width of one dot or more in the modeling resolution is, for example, the width of one three-dimensional pixel (voxel). In addition, one solid pixel is, for example, the minimum unit of elements constituting a modeled object. One solid pixel may be, for example, a portion formed by one ink droplet.

  More specifically, for example, when modeling is performed at a resolution of 600 dpi, the theoretical width (theoretical value) for one dot is about 40 μm (more specifically, about 42 μm). Therefore, in this case, it can be said that the width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer is preferably about 40 μm or more. In order to more reliably prevent ink mixing, it is preferable to form a transparent layer having a width of 2 dots or more between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer. In this case, it can be said that the width of the transparent layer is preferably about 80 μm or more.

  Further, the inventors of the present application have found through further experiments and the like that a problem arises when the width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer is excessively increased. More specifically, for example, if the width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer is excessively large, the density of the color visually recognized from the outside of the modeled object is reduced, and a desired color is obtained. I found out that I couldn't express it. In this case, a decrease in color density means that the color appears light. Such a phenomenon is caused by, for example, increasing the distance between the light reflecting layer and the colored layer by sandwiching a transparent layer having a large width between them, and the way in which light is reflected and the amount of light attenuation in the transparent layer. This is considered to be a changing effect.

  More specifically, such a phenomenon becomes remarkable when, for example, the width of the transparent layer exceeds 150 μm. Therefore, the width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer is preferably 150 μm or less in the direction perpendicular to the surface layer of the modeled object. The width of the transparent layer may be a designed width, for example. The width of this transparent layer is more preferably 100 μm or less. Further, the width of the transparent layer may be 50 μm or less.

  With this configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the ink constituting the light reflecting layer and the ink constituting the colored layer from being mixed while suppressing the influence caused by the width of the transparent layer becoming too large. it can. Moreover, it can prevent more appropriately that the color visually recognized by the angle which observes a modeling object by this, for example.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and the technical means disclosed in the embodiments and modifications are appropriately combined. The obtained embodiment is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a new technical feature can be formed by combining the technical means respectively disclosed in the embodiment and the modification.

  The present invention can be suitably used for, for example, a three-dimensional modeled object modeling apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Light reflection layer 2 1st transparent layer 3 Colored layer (decorative layer)
4 Second transparent layer 10, 10 ′, 10 a, 10 b Inkjet head device 10 (Y) Yellow ink nozzle 10 (C) Cyan ink nozzle 10 (K) Black ink nozzle 10 (M) Magenta ink nozzle 10 (CL) Nozzle for transparent ink 10 (W) Nozzle for white ink 11H 1st inkjet head 12H 2nd inkjet head 13H 3rd inkjet head 50 Modeling object 50a, 50'a Layer 51 A part 52 of a light reflection layer 52 1st transparency Part of layer 53 Part of colored layer (part of decorative layer)
54 Part of second transparent layer 60 Support material 100 Three-dimensional object shaping apparatus 102 Head unit 104 Base unit 106 Main scanning driving unit 108 Sub scanning driving unit 110 Control unit 202 Color ink head (decorative ink head)
204 Model material head (reflective ink head)
206 Transparent ink head 208 Support material head 210 Ultraviolet irradiation unit 212 Flattening roller (flattening means)
220 nozzle array

Claims (10)

A three-dimensional object forming apparatus for forming a three-dimensional object,
An ink-jet head that ejects ink droplets of light-reflective ink, and a reflective-ink head that forms a light-reflective layer that is a layer of the light-reflective ink;
A head for decorative ink that is an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of decorative ink that is a decorative ink for the modeled object, and that forms a decorative layer that is a layer of the decorative ink;
A transparent ink head that discharges ink droplets of a transparent ink that is a transparent color ink, and forms a transparent layer that is a layer of the transparent ink; and
A main scanning operation for ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the modeled object being modeled in a preset main scanning direction is performed for the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink. A main scanning drive unit for the head to perform,
The reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head are subjected to a sub-scanning operation that moves relative to the modeled object being modeled in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. A sub-scanning drive unit
At least the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged with their positions in the sub-scanning direction shifted from each other,
The reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head are formed from the surface layer side of the modeled object by forming the transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus, wherein the decorative layer, the transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer are formed in this order toward the inside.   2. The three-dimensional object modeling according to claim 1, wherein the reflective ink head is disposed with a position in the sub-scanning direction shifted from each of the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head. apparatus.   The head for transparent ink forms the first transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, and the second transparent layer on the surface layer side of the decorative layer. It forms further, The solid thing shaping apparatus of Claim 1 or 2 characterized by the above-mentioned.   The transparent ink head compensates the ink filling density of the decorative layer with the transparent ink for the portion where the ink filling density of the decorative layer does not satisfy a predetermined ink filling density with the decorative ink alone. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus models the modeled object by laminating a plurality of layers,
The reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head, the two or more layers of the plurality of layers, from the end side to the center side of each of the layers, The three-dimensional object according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a part of the decorative layer, a part of the transparent layer, and a part of the light reflecting layer are formed in this order. Modeling equipment. The head for transparent ink forms the first transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer, and the second transparent layer on the surface layer side of the decorative layer. Further forming,
Each of the two or more layers has a part of the decorative layer between a part of the first transparent layer and a part of the second transparent layer. Item 6. A three-dimensional object forming apparatus according to Item 5. Having a region in which the layers having a part of the decorative layer are laminated between a part of the first transparent layer and a part of the second transparent layer;
In the region, a portion in which a part of the decorative layer included in a certain layer and a part of the decorative layer included in a layer laminated on or under the certain layer are not overlapped. A part of the decorative layer included in the layer and a part of the first transparent layer or a part of the second transparent layer included in a layer laminated on or under the certain layer. The three-dimensional object shaping apparatus according to claim 6, wherein and are superimposed. The three-dimensional object forming apparatus further includes a flattening means for flattening the uppermost surface of the formed object being formed,
The transparent ink head ejects ink droplets of the transparent ink on the decorative ink in the decorative layer,
The three-dimensional object shaping apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the flattening means flattens at least the layer of the transparent ink formed on the decorative ink. .   9. The width of the transparent layer formed between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer in a direction perpendicular to the surface layer of the modeled object is 150 μm or less. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus of any one of Claims 1. A three-dimensional object forming method for forming a three-dimensional object,
An ink-jet head that ejects ink droplets of light-reflective ink, and a reflective-ink head that forms a light-reflective layer that is a layer of the light-reflective ink;
A head for decorative ink that is an inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of decorative ink that is a decorative ink for the modeled object, and that forms a decorative layer that is a layer of the decorative ink;
An inkjet head that ejects ink droplets of a transparent ink that is a transparent color ink, and a head for transparent ink that forms a transparent layer that is a layer of the transparent ink, and
In the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head,
A main scanning operation for ejecting ink droplets while moving relative to the modeled object being modeled in a preset main scanning direction;
A sub-scanning operation of moving relative to the modeled object in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction;
At least the decorative ink head and the transparent ink head are arranged with their positions in the sub-scanning direction shifted from each other,
By forming the transparent layer between the light reflecting layer and the decorative layer using the reflective ink head, the decorative ink head, and the transparent ink head, the surface layer of the shaped article A three-dimensional object formation method, wherein the decorative layer, the transparent layer, and the light reflecting layer are formed in this order from the side toward the inside.

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