JP2022016532A - Molten material supply device, three-dimensional modeling device, and method for manufacturing three-dimensional modeled object - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a molten material supply device capable of controlling start and stop of discharge of molten material from a nozzle, and quantity of molten material discharged from the nozzle, and capable of controlling start timing and stop timing of discharge of the molten material from the nozzle, and discharge quantity of the molten material in higher accuracy than an embodiment not provided with a flow control mechanism.

SOLUTION: A molten material supply device used for a three-dimensional modeling device is provided with: a first channel through which a molten material obtained by melting a thermoplastic resin is flowed; a nozzle communicating with the first channel and for discharging the molten material; and a flow control mechanism provided with a butterfly valve installed in the first channel.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a molten material supply device, a three-dimensional modeling device, and a method for manufacturing a three-dimensional model.

A three-dimensional modeling apparatus for producing a three-dimensional model by discharging a molten resin material, laminating it, and curing it is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2017-35811

In the modeling process with the three-dimensional modeling device, the ejection and stopping of the molten material from the nozzle are usually repeated. However, the flow rate of the molten material discharged from the nozzle is not controlled. Therefore, when the structure of the three-dimensional model is complicated, it is not possible to appropriately change the flow rate according to the formed portion to produce the three-dimensional model. Further, when the discharge of the material from the nozzle is stopped, the outflow of the material from the nozzle is not stopped immediately, and the timing of stopping the discharge of the material is delayed, or the discharge amount of the material is planned. In some cases, it was more than the amount. Further, when the ejection of the material from the nozzle is restarted, the material ejection timing may be delayed or the material ejection amount may be insufficient due to the delay in the supply of the material to the nozzle. As described above, in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus, there is still room for improvement in adjusting the discharge amount of the material from the nozzle and stopping the discharge of the material with good response.

The present disclosure has been made to solve at least a part of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized as the following forms or application examples.
[Form 1]
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a molten material supply device used in a three-dimensional modeling device is provided. This molten material supply device has a first flow path through which the molten material in which the thermoplastic resin is melted flows, a nozzle that communicates with the first flow path and discharges the molten material toward the table, and the first flow path. It is provided inside and includes a flow rate adjusting mechanism for adjusting the discharge amount of the molten material from the nozzle and a control unit for controlling the flow rate adjusting mechanism. The flow rate adjusting mechanism is described by rotating a drive shaft arranged along a direction intersecting a direction in which the first flow path extends, a butterfly valve formed in a part of the drive shaft, and the drive shaft. It has a drive unit for rotating the butterfly valve. The butterfly valve is arranged at a position where the first flow path and the drive shaft intersect. The control unit determines the discharge amount using the relative moving speed of the nozzle with respect to the table, and adjusts the rotation angle of the butterfly valve to a rotation angle corresponding to the determined discharge amount.

(1) According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a molten material supply device used in a three-dimensional modeling device is provided. This molten material supply device is: a first flow path through which the molten material in which the thermoplastic resin is melted is circulated; a nozzle that communicates with the first flow path and discharges the molten material; in the first flow path. A flow control mechanism with a butterfly valve provided;
According to this form of the molten material supply device, the butterfly valve provided in the flow path through which the molten material flows starts and stops the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle, and the amount of the molten material discharged from the nozzle. Can be controlled. Therefore, the start timing, the stop timing, and the discharge amount of the molten material from the nozzle can be controlled with higher accuracy than in the embodiment without the flow rate adjusting mechanism.

(2) According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the butterfly valve is provided with: a plate-like member rotatably arranged in the first flow path; the plate-like member in the first flow path. The cross section of the space in the plane perpendicular to the direction in which the molten material is circulated is from the cross section in the first flow path in the portion not provided with the plate-shaped member in the plane perpendicular to the direction in which the molten material is circulated. Can also be a large aspect.
According to this form of the molten material supply device, the flow path around the flow rate adjusting mechanism can be expanded by the expansion flow path provided at the position where the butterfly valve is provided. That is, the flow rate around the plate-shaped member can be increased as compared with the mode in which the expansion flow path is not provided. Therefore, when the surface direction of the plate-shaped member is parallel to the flow direction of the molten material, the flow rate of the first flow path is greatly restricted by the plate-shaped member as compared with the embodiment not provided with the flow rate adjusting mechanism. Can be prevented.

(3) According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, further, a suction unit that sucks the molten material into the branch flow path connected to the first flow path and generates a negative pressure in the first flow path. It can also be an aspect to be provided.
According to this form of the molten material supply device, the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle can be quickly stopped by generating a negative pressure in the flow path of the molten material by the suction unit.

(4) The molten material supply device of the above-described embodiment may further include a purge unit connected to the first flow path and delivering gas to the first flow path.
According to the molten material supply device of this form, the gas is sent to the upstream side of the molten material remaining in the flow path by the purge unit, so that the molten material remaining in the flow path is quickly discharged from the nozzle. Can be done. Therefore, the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle can be stopped quickly.

(5) In the molten material supply device of the above embodiment, the position where the purge portion is connected to the first flow path is on the nozzle side of the first flow path with respect to the position where the butterfly valve is provided. , It can also be an embodiment.
According to this form of the molten material supply device, the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle can be stopped quickly. Further, the discharge amount of the molten material remaining in the flow path is reduced as compared with the embodiment in which the position where the purge portion is connected to the flow path is on the opposite side (that is, the upstream side) of the nozzle across the flow rate adjusting mechanism. be able to.

(6) The molten material supply device of the above-described embodiment, further comprising a control unit for controlling the flow rate adjusting mechanism and the purging unit, wherein the control unit: closes the flow rate adjusting mechanism to the first flow path. The mode may be such that the purge section is operated after the flow of the material is stopped.
According to this form of the molten material supply device, it is possible to control the operation of the purge section after closing the flow path by the flow rate adjusting mechanism. Therefore, it is possible to control the stop of the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle with higher accuracy. Further, when the gas is sent into the flow path by the purge portion, it is possible to prevent the molten material in the flow path from flowing back to the flow path on the upstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism.

(7) According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a three-dimensional modeling apparatus including the molten material supply apparatus of the above-described embodiment is provided.

(8) According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a three-dimensional modeling apparatus including a melting portion for melting the thermoplastic resin is further provided. The melting portion: a communication hole communicating with the first flow path is formed, and the facing portion having a heater; facing the facing portion, being rotated to send the material to the communication hole and melting the material. The thermoplastic provided between the flat screw and the facing portion by the rotation of the flat screw and heating by the heater; Melt the resin.
In such a form, since the resin material is melted by the flat screw, the size of the entire device can be reduced.

The plurality of components of each embodiment of the invention described above are not all essential, and may be used to solve some or all of the above-mentioned problems, or part or all of the effects described herein. In order to achieve the above, it is possible to change, delete, replace a part of the plurality of components with new other components, and partially delete the limited contents, as appropriate. Further, in order to solve a part or all of the above-mentioned problems, or to achieve a part or all of the effects described in the present specification, the technical features included in the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention. It is also possible to combine some or all with some or all of the technical features contained in the other embodiments of the invention described above to form an independent embodiment of the invention.

The present disclosure can also be realized in various forms other than the molten material supply device and the three-dimensional modeling device. For example, it can be realized by a method of discharging a molten material, a method of modeling a three-dimensional model using the molten material, or the like. In addition, it can be realized in the form of a control method of a three-dimensional modeling apparatus, a computer program for controlling a flow rate adjusting mechanism, a non-temporary recording medium on which the computer program is recorded, or the like.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the 3D modeling apparatus 100 in 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the structure of the lower surface 48 side of a flat screw 40. It is a schematic plan view which shows the upper surface 52 side of the facing portion 50. It is explanatory drawing which shows the positional relationship between a three-dimensional model OB and a discharge port 62 at the tip of a nozzle 61. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the structure of the appearance of the molten material supply device 60 provided with the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70. It is sectional drawing of the molten material supply apparatus 60 at the VI-VI position of FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the first position in the region Ef in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the second position in the region Ef in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the third position in the region Ef in FIG. 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the flow of the modeling process executed by the control unit 300. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the flow rate control mechanism 70b provided in the molten material supply device 60b of the 3D modeling apparatus 100b in 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in a state where the butterfly valve 72b is in the second position. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the molten material supply apparatus 60c of the 3rd Embodiment which includes the suction part 75. It is explanatory drawing which schematically showed the operation of the suction part 75 provided in the molten material supply apparatus 60c of 3rd Embodiment.

A. First Embodiment:
FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 in the first embodiment. In FIG. 1, arrows indicating X, Y, and Z directions orthogonal to each other are shown. The X and Y directions are parallel to the horizontal plane, and the Z direction is opposite to the gravity direction. The arrows indicating the X, Y, and Z directions are shown in other figures as necessary so as to correspond to FIG.

The three-dimensional modeling device 100 includes a discharge unit 110, a modeling stage unit 200, and a control unit 300. Under the control of the control unit 300, the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 creates a three-dimensional model by ejecting the molten material from the nozzle 61 of the ejection unit 110 onto the modeling table 220 of the modeling stage unit 200. The molten material is a material obtained by melting a resin having thermoplasticity (thermoplastic resin).

The discharge unit 110 includes a material supply unit 20, a melting unit 30, and a molten material supply device 60. The material supply unit 20 is composed of a hopper, and a lower discharge port is connected to the melting unit 30 via a communication passage 22. The material supply unit 20 supplies the thermoplastic material to the melting unit 30.

Examples of the material to be charged into the material supply unit 20 include polypropylene resin (PP), polyethylene resin (PE), polyacetal resin (POM), polyvinyl chloride resin (PVC), polyamide resin (PA), and acrylonitrile butadiene. A styrene resin (ABS), a polylactic acid resin (PLA), a polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS), a polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a polycarbonate (PC) and the like can be used. These materials are charged into the material supply unit 20 in the form of solid materials such as pellets and powder. Further, the material having thermoplasticity charged into the material supply unit 20 may be mixed with a pigment, a metal, a ceramic or the like.

The melting unit 30 melts the material supplied from the material supply unit 20 and flows it into the molten material supply device 60. The melting portion 30 includes a screw case 31, a drive motor 32, a flat screw 40, and a facing portion 50.

The flat screw 40 is a substantially columnar screw whose height in the axial direction (direction along the central axis) is smaller than the diameter, and a groove portion 42 is formed on the lower surface 48 which is a surface intersecting the rotation axis RX. ing. The communication passage 22 of the material supply unit 20 described above is connected to the groove portion 42 from the side surface of the flat screw 40. The specific shape of the flat screw 40 will be described later.

The flat screw 40 is arranged so that its axial direction is parallel to the Z direction, and rotates along the circumferential direction. In FIG. 1, the rotation axis RX of the flat screw 40 is illustrated by a alternate long and short dash line. In the first embodiment, the central axis of the flat screw 40 and its rotation axis RX coincide with each other.

The flat screw 40 is housed in the screw case 31. The upper surface 47 of the flat screw 40 is connected to the drive motor 32. The flat screw 40 is rotated in the screw case 31 by the rotational driving force generated by the drive motor 32. The drive motor 32 is driven under the control of the control unit 300.

The lower surface 48 of the flat screw 40 faces the upper surface 52 of the facing portion 50. A space is formed between the groove 42 provided on the lower surface 48 and the upper surface 52 of the facing portion 50. In the discharge unit 110, the thermoplastic material supplied from the material supply unit 20 circulates in this space.

The facing portion 50 is a substantially columnar member whose height in the axial direction (direction along the central axis) is smaller than the diameter. One circular surface of the facing portion 50 faces the lower surface 48 of the flat screw 40, and the other circular surface is connected to the molten material supply device 60. A heater 58 for heating the material is embedded in the facing portion 50. The material supplied into the groove 42 is melted by heating by the heater 58 and converted into a molten material, and flows along the groove 42 by the rotation of the flat screw 40 to the central portion 46 of the flat screw 40 described later. Is guided. The molten material that has flowed into the central portion 46 is supplied to the molten material supply device 60 through the communication hole 56 provided in the center of the facing portion 50.

The molten material supply device 60 circulates the molten material supplied from the facing portion 50 in the internal flow path and discharges it from the nozzle 61. The molten material supply device 60 includes a nozzle 61, a first flow path 65, a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70, and a purge unit 80. The nozzle 61 discharges the molten material from the discharge port 62 at the tip. The discharge port 62 is an opening having a hole diameter Dn formed in the nozzle 61, and is connected to the communication hole 56 through the first flow path 65. The first flow path 65 is a flow path of the molten material between the flat screw 40 and the nozzle 61. In the first embodiment, the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the molten material in the first flow path 65 is a circle having a diameter of Wd. The molten material melted in the melting unit 30 flows from the communication hole 56 to the first flow path 65, and is discharged from the discharge port 62 of the nozzle 61 toward the modeling table 220 of the modeling stage unit 200.

The molten material is heated above the glass transition point and is completely melted before being ejected from the nozzle 61. For example, ABS resin has a glass transition point of about 120 ° C. and is about 200 ° C. at the time of injection from the nozzle 61. A heater may be provided around the nozzle 61 in order to inject the molten material in such a high temperature state.

The flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is provided in the first flow path 65, and controls the flow rate of the molten material flowing through the first flow path 65. The flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 includes a butterfly valve 72, a valve drive unit 74, and a drive shaft 76 (not shown in FIG. 1). The valve drive unit 74 is driven under the control of the control unit 300. The mechanism for adjusting the flow rate of the first flow path 65 by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 will be described later.

The purge unit 80 is connected to the first flow path 65 and includes a mechanism for delivering gas into the first flow path 65. The purge unit 80 includes a delivery path 82, a purge drive unit 84, and a delivery port 86. The delivery path 82 and the delivery port 86 are not shown in FIG. In the first embodiment, the purge unit 80 is provided on the nozzle 61 side (that is, on the downstream side) of the first flow path 65 with respect to the position where the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is provided. The gas sent out to the first flow path 65 by the purge unit 80 pressure-feeds the molten material in the first flow path 65 to the discharge port 62. The mechanism for delivering gas to the first flow path 65 by the purge unit 80 will be described later.

The modeling stage portion 200 is provided at a position facing the nozzle 61 of the molten material supply device 60. The modeling stage portion 200 includes a table 210, a modeling table 220 mounted on the table 210, and a moving mechanism 230 for displacing the modeling table 220. The moving mechanism 230 includes three motors, represented by "M" in FIG. The moving mechanism 230 is composed of a three-axis positioner that moves the modeling table 220 in the three-axis directions of the X, Y, and Z directions by the driving force of these three motors. The modeling stage unit 200 changes the relative positional relationship between the nozzle 61 and the modeling table 220 under the control of the control unit 300.

The control unit 300 can be realized by a computer including, for example, a processor such as a CPU, a main memory, and a non-volatile memory. A computer program for controlling the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 is stored in the non-volatile memory in the control unit 300. The control unit 300 drives the discharge unit 110 to discharge the molten material at the position of the coordinates on the modeling table 220 according to the modeling data, thereby executing the modeling process for modeling the three-dimensional modeled object.

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the flat screw 40 on the lower surface 48 side. In FIG. 2, the position of the rotation axis RX of the flat screw 40 when rotating in the melting portion 30 is illustrated by a alternate long and short dash line. As described above, a groove 42 is provided on the lower surface 48 of the flat screw 40 facing the facing portion 50 (FIG. 1). Hereinafter, the lower surface 48 is also referred to as a “groove forming surface 48”.

The central portion 46 of the groove forming surface 48 of the flat screw 40 is configured as a recess to which one end of the groove portion 42 is connected. The central portion 46 faces the communication hole 56 (FIG. 1) of the facing portion 50. In the first embodiment, the central portion 46 intersects the rotation axis RX.

The groove portion 42 of the flat screw 40 extends in a spiral shape from the central portion 46 toward the outer periphery of the flat screw 40 so as to draw an arc. The groove portion 42 may be configured to extend in a spiral shape. Note that FIG. 2 shows an example of a flat screw 40 having three ridges 43 extending along each groove 42, which constitutes a side wall of the three grooves 42. The number of groove portions 42 and ridge portions 43 provided on the flat screw 40 is not limited to three. The flat screw 40 may be provided with only one groove 42, or may be provided with two or more groove 42s. Further, any number of ridges 43 may be provided according to the number of grooves 42.

The groove 42 is continuous to the material inflow port 44 formed on the side surface of the flat screw 40. The material inflow port 44 is a portion that receives the material supplied through the communication passage 22 of the material supply unit 20. Note that FIG. 2 shows an example of a flat screw 40 in which material inflow ports 44 are formed at three locations. The number of material inlets 44 provided in the flat screw 40 is not limited to three. The flat screw 40 may be provided with the material inflow port 44 at only one place, or may be provided at a plurality of places of two or more places.

When the flat screw 40 rotates, the material supplied from the material inflow port 44 melts while being heated by the heater 58 of the facing portion 50 in the groove portion 42, and is converted into a molten material. The molten material flows through the groove 42 to the central 46.

FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing the upper surface 52 side of the facing portion 50. As described above, the upper surface 52 of the facing portion 50 faces the groove forming surface 48 of the flat screw 40. Hereinafter, the upper surface 52 is also referred to as a “screw facing surface 52”. At the center of the screw facing surface 52, a communication hole 56 for supplying the molten material to the first flow path 65 is formed.

A plurality of guide grooves 54 connected to the communication hole 56 and extending spirally from the communication hole 56 toward the outer circumference are formed on the screw facing surface 52. The plurality of guide grooves 54 have a function of guiding the molten material to the communication holes 56. As described above, a heater 58 for heating the material is embedded in the facing portion 50 (see FIG. 1). The melting of the material in the melting section 30 is realized by heating by the heater 58 and rotating the flat screw 40. As described above, according to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 of the first embodiment, the use of the flat screw 40 has realized the miniaturization of the apparatus and the improvement of the modeling accuracy.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship between the three-dimensional model OB and the discharge port 62 at the tip of the nozzle 61. FIG. 4 schematically shows how the three-dimensional model OB is modeled on the modeling table 220.

In the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100, a gap G is held between the discharge port 62 at the tip of the nozzle 61 and the upper surface OBt of the three-dimensional modeled object OB being modeled. Here, the "upper surface OBt of the three-dimensional model OB" means a portion where the molten material discharged from the nozzle 61 is scheduled to be deposited in the vicinity of the position directly below the nozzle 61.

The size of the gap G is preferably not more than the hole diameter Dn (see FIG. 1) at the ejection port 62 of the nozzle 61, and more preferably 1.1 times or more the hole diameter Dn. In this way, the molten material discharged from the discharge port 62 of the nozzle 61 is deposited on the upper surface OBt of the three-dimensional model OB in a free state where it cannot be pressed against the upper surface OBt of the three-dimensional model OB being manufactured. As a result, it is possible to prevent the cross-sectional shape of the molten material discharged from the nozzle 61 from being crushed, and it is possible to reduce the surface roughness of the three-dimensional modeled object OB. Further, in the configuration in which the heater is provided around the nozzle 61, the material can be prevented from overheating by the heater by forming the gap G, and the material deposited on the three-dimensional model OB is discolored or deteriorated due to the overheating. Is suppressed.

On the other hand, the size of the gap G is preferably 1.5 times or less, and particularly preferably 1.3 times or less the hole diameter Dn. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in accuracy with respect to the planned portion where the molten material is to be placed and a decrease in adhesion of the molten material to the upper surface OBt of the three-dimensional model OB being manufactured.

FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing an external configuration of a molten material supply device 60 provided with a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70. In FIG. 5, the position of the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76 when the drive shaft 76 rotates is illustrated by a broken line. The drive shaft 76 is penetrated from a part of the outer surface of the molten material supply device 60 in the Y direction.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the molten material supply device 60 at the VI-VI position of FIG. In the first embodiment, the molten material supply device 60 includes a nozzle 61, a first flow path 65, a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70, and a purge unit 80.

The flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 includes a butterfly valve 72, a valve drive unit 74, and a drive shaft 76. The flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is provided in the first flow path 65, and controls the flow rate of the molten material flowing through the first flow path 65. The butterfly valve 72 is a plate-shaped member in which a part of the drive shaft 76 is processed into a plate shape. The butterfly valve 72 is rotatably arranged in the first flow path 65. FIG. 6 shows the flow direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65.

The drive shaft 76 is a shaft-shaped member provided so as to be perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65. In the first embodiment, the drive shaft 76 intersects the first flow path 65 perpendicularly. The drive shaft 76 is provided so that the position of the butterfly valve 72 is at the position where the drive shaft 76 and the first flow path 65 intersect.

The valve drive unit 74 is a drive unit having a mechanism for rotating the drive shaft 76 around the central shaft AX. The butterfly valve 72 is rotated by the rotational driving force of the drive shaft 76 generated by the valve drive unit 74. Specifically, the butterfly valve 72 has a first position in which the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65 and the surface direction of the butterfly valve 72 are substantially perpendicular to each other when the drive shaft 76 is rotated. , The second position where the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65 and the plane direction of the butterfly valve 72 are substantially parallel, and the flow direction Fd of the molten material and the butterfly valve 72 in the first flow path 65. It is rotated so as to be at any position of the third position, which is one of the angles whose plane direction is greater than 0 degrees and smaller than 90 degrees. FIG. 6 shows a state in which the position of the butterfly valve 72 is the first position.

The rotation of the butterfly valve 72 adjusts the area of the opening formed in the flow path of the first flow path 65. By adjusting the area of this opening, the flow rate of the molten material flowing through the first flow path 65 is adjusted. Further, by setting the area of this opening to zero (the state in which the butterfly valve 72 blocks the flow path of the first flow path 65), the flow rate of the molten material flowing through the first flow path 65 is set to zero. You can also do it. That is, the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 can control the start and stop of the flow of the molten material flowing through the first flow path 65 and the adjustment of the flow rate of the molten material. In the present specification, the expression "stopping the discharge of the molten material" is used when the flow rate of the molten material is zero (that is, the flow path of the molten material is blocked). Unless otherwise stated, the expression "change in flow rate" does not include a change to a zero flow rate of the molten material.

The purge unit 80 is connected to the first flow path 65 and includes a mechanism for delivering gas into the first flow path 65. The purge unit 80 includes a delivery path 82, a purge drive unit 84, and a delivery port 86. For the purge drive unit 84, for example, a pump that sends out gas by reciprocating motion such as a plunger pump, a piston pump, and a diaphragm pump, and various pumps that can send out gas such as a gear pump and a syringe pump can be applied. .. The purge drive unit 84 is driven under the control of the control unit 300.

The delivery port 86 is an opening provided in the first flow path 65. The delivery path 82 is configured by a through hole extending linearly and intersecting the first flow path 65. The delivery path 82 is a gas flow path connected to the purge drive unit 84 and the delivery port 86. The gas delivered from the purge drive unit 84 is sent from the delivery port 86 into the first flow path 65 through the delivery path 82. The gas supplied into the first flow path 65 is further continuously supplied with gas from the purge drive unit 84, so that the molten material remaining in the first flow path 65 is pressure-fed to the nozzle 61 side. The pressure-fed molten material is discharged from the discharge port 62 of the nozzle 61.

As a result, the molten material remaining in the flow path can be quickly discharged from the nozzle 61. Therefore, the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle 61 can be stopped quickly. The shape of the opening of the outlet 86 connected to the first flow path 65 is smaller than the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65. This prevents the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65 from flowing in from the delivery port 86 and flowing back inside the delivery path 82.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in the region Ef in FIG. 1 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the first position. Specifically, it is a cross-sectional view of the plane including the central axis of the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65, which is perpendicular to the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76. In FIG. 7, in addition to each member, the central shaft AX of the drive shaft 76, the thickness Th of the butterfly valve 72, the distribution direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65, and the distribution direction Fd are abbreviated. The diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65 in the vertical direction is schematically shown. In FIG. 7, the butterfly valve 72 is arranged at a position (first position) in which the surface direction is substantially perpendicular to the distribution direction Fd by rotating the drive shaft 76 with respect to the central axis AX by the valve drive unit 74. ing.

The butterfly valve 72 is a substantially square plate-shaped member having a thickness Th of which is one-third of the diameter Wd of the first flow path 65. The length of one side of the butterfly valve 72 in the plane direction is substantially the same as the diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65. That is, by arranging the butterfly valve 72 at a position (first position) where the surface direction of the butterfly valve 72 is substantially perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material, the flow path of the molten material in the first flow path 65 becomes the flow path of the butterfly valve 72. It is closed by the surface it has.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in the region Ef in FIG. 1 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the second position. Specifically, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the surface of the first flow path 65 including the central axis of the flow direction Fd of the molten material, which is perpendicular to the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76. In FIG. 8, in addition to each member, the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76, the thickness Th of the butterfly valve 72, the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65, and the flow direction Fd are substantially perpendicular to each other. The diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65 in the orientation, the width W1 of the flow path sandwiched between one surface of the butterfly valve 72 and the inner wall of the first flow path 65 in the X direction, and the other of the butterfly valve 72. The width W2 of the flow path sandwiched between the surface and the inner wall of the first flow path 65 in the X direction is schematically shown. In FIG. 8, the butterfly valve 72 is arranged at a position (second position) in which the surface direction is substantially parallel to the distribution direction Fd by rotating the drive shaft 76 with respect to the central axis AX by the valve drive unit 74. ing.

When the butterfly valve 72 is projected along the flow direction Fd on a surface substantially perpendicular to the flow direction Fd in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is arranged at the second position, the area of the butterfly valve 72 becomes the smallest. On the contrary, in the first flow path 65, the flow path of the molten material is the largest. That is, the state in which the butterfly valve 72 is in the second position is a state in which the flow rate in the first flow path 65 is maximized by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in the region Ef in FIG. 1 in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is in the third position. Specifically, it is a cross-sectional view of the plane including the central axis of the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65, which is perpendicular to the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76. In FIG. 9, in addition to each member, the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76, the thickness Th of the butterfly valve 72, the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65, and the flow direction Fd are substantially perpendicular to each other. The diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65 in the orientation, and the width W3 which is the smallest of the widths in the X direction of the flow path sandwiched between one surface of the butterfly valve 72 and the inner wall of the first flow path 65. The width W4, which is the minimum width in the X direction of the flow path sandwiched between the other surface of the butterfly valve 72 and the inner wall of the first flow path 65, is schematically shown. In FIG. 9, in the butterfly valve 72, the drive shaft 76 is rotated with respect to the central shaft AX by the valve drive unit 74, so that the flow direction Fd in which the molten material flows in the first flow path 65 and the butterfly valve 72. The angle formed in the plane direction is arranged at a position (third position) which is one of the angles larger than 0 degrees and smaller than 90 degrees.

The width W3 and the width W4 are varied by rotating the butterfly valve 72. The relationship between the widths W1 and W2 at the second position (see FIG. 8) and the widths W3 and W4 at the third position is 0 <W3 <W1 and 0 <W4 <W2. When the butterfly valve 72 is projected along the flow direction Fd on a surface substantially perpendicular to the flow direction Fd in a state where the butterfly valve 72 is arranged at the third position, the area of the butterfly valve 72 is arranged at the second position. It is larger than the area when it is placed and smaller than the area when it is placed in the first position. Further, the area of the butterfly valve 72 fluctuates with the fluctuation of the width W3 and the width W4 described above. That is, the angle formed between the flow direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65 and the surface direction of the butterfly valve 72 is adjusted to be larger than 0 degrees and smaller than 90 degrees. The area of the flow path in the first flow path 65 at the position where the butterfly valve 72 is provided is adjusted within a range larger than the area when it is arranged in the first position and smaller than the area when it is arranged in the second position. Can be done. That is, the amount of the molten material discharged from the nozzle 61 can be controlled by adjusting the flow rate in the first flow path 65 by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70.

As described above, according to the molten material supply device 60 of the first embodiment, the butterfly valve 72 provided in the first flow path 65 through which the molten material is circulated starts the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61 and the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61. The stop and the amount of molten material discharged from the nozzle 61 can be controlled. Therefore, the start timing, the stop timing, and the discharge amount of the molten material from the nozzle 61 can be controlled with higher accuracy than in the embodiment without the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a flow of modeling processing executed by the control unit 300. Step S10 is a discharge step of discharging the molten material from the nozzle 61. In step S10, the control unit 300 drives the drive motor 32 of the melting unit 30, rotates the flat screw 40, and executes a discharge process of continuously discharging the molten material from the nozzle 61 toward the modeling table 220. .. At this time, the control unit 300 reads the set value of the flow rate of the molten material at the start of the discharge process, drives the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70, and determines the butterfly valve 72 in the second position or the third position in advance. Executes the process of moving to the current position.

While the ejection process is being executed, the control unit 300 controls the moving mechanism 230 of the modeling stage unit 200 to displace the modeling table 220 in the three axial directions of the X, Y, and Z directions according to the modeling data. As a result, the molten material is deposited at the target position on the modeling table 220.

The control unit 300 determines whether or not it is necessary to change the flow rate of the molten material during the discharge process in step S10 (step S20). The control unit 300 may make the determination based on, for example, modeling data.

When it is necessary to change the flow rate of the molten material (S20: YES), the control unit 300 controls the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 to move the butterfly valve 72 to a predetermined position of the second position or the third position. The process of moving is executed (step S21). As a result, the flow rate of the molten material in the first flow path 65 is changed.

The control unit 300 is a molten material from the nozzle 61, for example, in the case of modeling a three-dimensional model after reducing the speed of moving the model table 220 in order to model a complicated part or detail of the model. Judgment to reduce the discharge amount of. The control unit 300 moves the butterfly valve 72 from the second position of the butterfly valve 72, which is set to form a simple structural part of the modeled object, to a predetermined position among the third positions and melts the butterfly valve 72. Change the flow rate of the material. Alternatively, the control unit 300 may determine that it is necessary to change the flow rate of the molten material from the nozzle 61 when receiving an interrupt command for changing the flow rate from the user or a higher-level control unit.

On the other hand, when it is not necessary to change the flow rate of the molten material (S20: NO), whether or not the timing for temporarily interrupting the ejection of the molten material has arrived in the middle of the ejection process in step S10. Is determined (step S30). The control unit 300 may make the determination based on the modeling data. The control unit 300 temporarily discharges the molten material from the nozzle 61, for example, when the molten material is separated and deposited at a position separated by a predetermined distance from the position where the molten material has been discharged until then. It is determined that the timing of interruption has arrived. Alternatively, the control unit 300 may determine that the timing for temporarily suspending the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61 has arrived when the interrupt command for suspension from the user or a higher-level control unit is received. ..

When it is not the timing to interrupt the ejection of the molten material, the control unit 300 continues the ejection process of the molten material in step S10 (S30: NO). On the other hand, when the timing for interrupting the discharge of the molten material has arrived (S30: YES), the control unit 300 executes the processes of steps S31 to S40.

Steps S31 to S40 are discharge stop steps for controlling the outflow of the molten material from the nozzle 61. In this discharge stop step, the control unit 300 controls the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 to move the butterfly valve 72 to the first position. As a result, the position of the first flow path 65 where the butterfly valve 72 is provided is closed, and the flow of the molten material from the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 to the nozzle 61 side (that is, the downstream side) is stopped (step S31).

In step S31, the control unit 300 closes the first flow path 65 by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70, and then drives the purge unit 80 provided on the downstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 to drive the inside of the first flow path 65. Is supplied with gas (step S32). According to this discharge stop step, when the butterfly valve 72 closes the first flow path 65, the gas supplied from the purge unit 80 pumps the molten material remaining on the downstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 by pressure. It can be discharged from the discharge port 62 of the nozzle 61.

As described above, the control unit 300 can execute the control to operate the purge unit 80 after closing the first flow path 65 by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70. Therefore, it is possible to control the stop of the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle 61 with higher accuracy. Further, when the gas is sent into the first flow path 65 by the purge unit 80, it is possible to prevent the molten material in the first flow path 65 from flowing back to the flow path on the upstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70. ..

Of the purge section 80, the molten material remaining on the upstream side of the delivery port 86 connected to the first flow path 65 and on the downstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is delivered by the gas delivery section 80. It may not be ejected from the nozzle 61. Therefore, the outlet 86 connected to the first flow path 65 is on the downstream side of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in the first flow path 65, and is provided at a position as close as possible to the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70. Is preferable.

Further, while the control unit 300 is stopping the outflow of the molten material from the nozzle 61, for example, the control unit 300 is shaped so that the nozzle 61 is located at the coordinates on the modeling table 220 where the ejection of the molten material should be restarted next. The position of the nozzle 61 with respect to the table 220 may be changed.

The control unit 300 starts the outflow of the molten material from the nozzle 61 when it is time to restart the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61 (step S40: YES). Specifically, the set value of the flow rate of the molten material at the time of restarting the discharge process is read, the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is driven, and the butterfly valve 72 is set to a predetermined position in the second position or the third position. Execute the process to move. On the other hand, when the control unit 300 does not restart the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61 (that is, when the modeling process is completed), the control unit 300 ends the process (step S40: NO).

In step S31, when the first flow path 65 is closed by the butterfly valve 72 to temporarily interrupt the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle 61, the control unit 300 stops the rotation of the flat screw 40. It is desirable to continue without doing so. Thereby, in step S40, the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61 can be restarted more quickly.

B. Second embodiment:
FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b included in the molten material supply device 60b of the three-dimensional modeling device 100b according to the second embodiment. Specifically, it is a cross-sectional view of the surface including the central axis of the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65b, which is perpendicular to the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76b. The configuration of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100b of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b of the second embodiment is provided instead of the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 of the first embodiment. The configuration is almost the same as that of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100.

The flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b of the second embodiment includes a butterfly valve 72b, a valve drive unit 74b (not shown), and a drive shaft 76b. The length of one side of the butterfly valve 72b in the plane direction is larger than the diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65b. In the space provided with the butterfly valve 72b in the first flow path 65b, a flow path having a width Wd2 having a width substantially the same as the length of one side in the plane direction of the butterfly valve 72b is provided. This width Wd2 is larger than the diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65b. That is, the cross section of the space perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the space provided with the butterfly valve 72b which is a plate-shaped member in the first flow path 65b is provided with the butterfly valve 72 in the first flow path 65b. It is larger than the cross section in the plane perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the non-existent portion.

In FIG. 11, the surface direction of the butterfly valve 72b is arranged at a position (first position) substantially perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65b. As a result, the flow path of the molten material in the first flow path 65b is blocked by the surface of the butterfly valve 72b.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 in a state where the butterfly valve 72b is in the second position. Specifically, it is a cross-sectional view of the plane including the central axis of the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65b, which is perpendicular to the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76. In FIG. 12, the butterfly valve 72b is arranged at a position (second position) in which the plane direction is substantially parallel to the flow direction Fd of the molten material flowing in the first flow path 65b. That is, the flow rate in the first flow path 65b is maximized by the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b.

In FIG. 12, in addition to each member, the central axis AX of the drive shaft 76, the thickness Th of the butterfly valve 72, the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65b, and the flow direction Fd are substantially perpendicular to each other. The diameter Wd of the cross section of the first flow path 65b in the orientation, the width W1b in the X direction between one surface of the butterfly valve 72b and the inner wall of the first flow path 65b, and the other surface and the first of the butterfly valve 72. The width W2b in the X direction between the flow path 65b and the inner wall is schematically shown. Each width is formed so that W5> W1b and W6> W2b. That is, in the space of the first flow path 65b where the butterfly valve 72b is provided, the flow path on one surface side of the butterfly valve 72b and the flow path on the other surface side are different from those in which the butterfly valve 72 is provided. , A flow path with an expanded width is provided.

As a result, the flow path around the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b can be expanded. That is, the flow rate around the butterfly valve 72b can be increased as compared with the mode in which the enlarged flow path is not provided. Therefore, when the plane direction of the butterfly valve 72b is parallel to the flow direction Fd of the molten material (second position), the butterfly valve 72b makes the first flow path 65b different from the mode in which the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70b is not provided. It is possible to prevent the flow rate from being greatly restricted.

C. Third embodiment:
With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the configuration of the suction unit 75 included in the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100c of the third embodiment as the molten material supply apparatus 60c will be described. The configuration of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100c of the third embodiment is the first embodiment except that the molten material supply apparatus 60c of the third embodiment is provided instead of the molten material supply apparatus 60 of the first embodiment. It is almost the same as the configuration of the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100 of the form.

FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the molten material supply device 60c of the third embodiment including the suction unit 75. The suction unit 75 has a function of changing the pressure in the first flow path 65. The suction unit 75 has a branch flow path 79, a rod 77, and a rod drive unit 78. The branch flow path 79 is a flow path through which a part of the molten material of the first flow path 65 flows. The branch flow path 79 is composed of through holes that extend linearly and intersect the first flow path 65. The rod 77 is a shaft-shaped member extending in the X direction arranged in the branch flow path 79. The rod driving unit 78 generates a driving force for instantaneously reciprocating the rod 77 in the branch flow path 79 under the control of the control unit 300. The rod drive unit 78 is composed of, for example, an actuator such as a solenoid mechanism, a piezo element, or a motor.

The suction portion 75 of the molten material supply device 60c positions the rod 77 at the tip end portion 77e at the connection portion between the first flow path 65 and the branch flow path 79 while the molten material is discharged from the nozzle 61. Position it in the initial position. FIG. 13 shows a state in which the position of the rod 77 is the initial position.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the operation of the suction unit 75 included in the molten material supply device 60c of the third embodiment. The rod 77 is described by the rod drive unit 78 so that the tip portion 77e of the rod 77 is located at a deep position in the branch flow path 79 when the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle 61 is temporarily interrupted. It is instantaneously drawn into the branch flow path 79 from the initial position. As a result, the suction unit 75 sucks a part of the molten material of the first flow path 65 into the branch flow path 79, generates a negative pressure in the first flow path 65, and causes the molten material to flow out from the nozzle 61. Can be temporarily stopped.

When resuming the ejection of the molten material from the nozzle 61, the control unit 300 returns the rod 77 to the initial position by the rod drive unit 78. As a result, the molten material of the branch flow path 79 flows out to the first flow path 65, and the pressure of the first flow path 65 is increased. Therefore, the outflow of the molten material from the nozzle 61 can be resumed quickly.

As described above, according to the three-dimensional modeling apparatus 100c of the third embodiment, the suction unit 75 generates a negative pressure in the first flow path 65, so that the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle 61 is quickly stopped. Can be made to. Further, when the outflow of the molten material from the nozzle 61 is restarted, the suction unit 75 increases the pressure in the first flow path 65, so that the accuracy of the start timing of the discharge of the molten material and the time when the discharge of the molten material is started are accurate. The accuracy of the discharge amount is improved.

D. Other forms:
D1. Other form 1:
(1) In the above embodiment, the butterfly valve 72 is a substantially square plate-shaped member in which a part of the drive shaft 76 is processed into a plate shape. However, the butterfly valve can also be a member processed into another shape, for example, a circular plate-shaped member. That is, the flow rate of the molten material in the first flow path 65 can be adjusted when it is arranged in the first position and the flow path of the first flow path 65 is blocked and when it is arranged in the second position or the third position. It should be.

(2) In the above embodiment, the butterfly valve 72 is a substantially square plate-shaped member having a thickness Th of which is one-third of the diameter Wd of the first flow path 65. However, the thickness of the butterfly valve is not limited to this. The thickness of the butterfly valve may be less than one-third or larger than one-third. In such an embodiment, the butterfly valve is designed to be strong enough to withstand the pressure of the flow of the molten material, blocking the flow path of the first flow path 65 when placed in the first position, and in the second position or second position. The flow rate of the molten material in the first flow path 65 can be adjusted when the materials are arranged at the three positions.

(3) In the above embodiment, the drive shaft 76 is provided so as to be perpendicular to the flow direction Fd of the molten material in the first flow path 65. However, the drive shaft may have an axial direction that is not perpendicular to the flow direction of the molten material in the first flow path. In such an embodiment, for example, the butterfly valve is a spherical valve having an opening, the drive shaft is rotated about the central axis AX, and the flow direction is relative to a plane perpendicular to the flow direction of the molten material. By changing the opening shape of the valve projected in parallel with, the flow path of the first flow path is blocked when it is arranged in the first position, and the first when it is arranged in the second position or the third position. The flow rate of the molten material in the flow path can be adjusted.

D2. Other form 2:
In the above embodiment, the suction unit 75 generates a negative pressure in the first flow path 65 by moving the rod 77 in the branch flow path 79. On the other hand, the suction unit 75 may generate a negative pressure in the first flow path 65 by another configuration. The suction unit 75 may, for example, suck the molten material into the branch flow path 79 by the suction force of the pump to generate a negative pressure in the first flow path 65. In the case of this configuration, the molten material sucked into the branch flow path 79 may be circulated to the flat screw 40 and reused, or may be discharged to the outside of the apparatus as it is.

D3. Other form 3:
(1) In the above embodiment, the purge unit 80 is provided on the nozzle 61 side (that is, on the downstream side) of the first flow path 65 from the position where the flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 is provided. However, the purge portion may be provided on the upstream side of the first flow path from the position where the flow rate adjusting mechanism is provided. In such an embodiment, the control unit controls the flow rate adjusting mechanism to close the first flow path after discharging the molten material remaining in the first flow path by driving the purge unit. can do.

(2) In the above embodiment, the delivery port 86 included in the purge unit 80 is an opening provided in the first flow path 65. However, the outlet may be provided with a lid that closes the opening. The lid portion may be formed of, for example, a rubber having a notch extending radially from the central portion of the surface in contact with the first flow path.

(3) In the above embodiment, the molten material supply device 60 includes both a flow rate adjusting mechanism 70 and a purge unit 80. However, the mode may be such that the purge portion is not provided and only the flow rate adjusting mechanism is provided. Further, the molten material supply device may be provided with a flow rate adjusting mechanism, a purge unit, and a suction unit, or may be provided with a flow rate adjusting mechanism and a suction unit, and may not be provided with a purge unit. May be good.

D4. others:
The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, examples, and modifications, and can be realized with various configurations within a range not deviating from the gist thereof. For example, the technical features in the embodiments, examples, and modifications corresponding to the technical features in each of the embodiments described in the column of the outline of the invention may be used to solve some or all of the above-mentioned problems. , Can be replaced or combined as appropriate to achieve some or all of the above effects. Further, if the technical feature is not described as essential in the present specification, it can be appropriately deleted.

20 ... Material supply part, 22 ... Communication passage, 30 ... Melting part, 31 ... Screw case, 32 ... Drive motor, 40 ... Flat screw, 42 ... Groove part, 43 ... Convex part, 44 ... Material inlet, 46 ... Center Part, 47 ... upper surface of flat screw, 48 ... lower surface (groove forming surface), 50 ... facing portion, 52 ... upper surface (screw facing surface), 54 ... guide groove, 56 ... communication hole, 58 ... heater, 60 ... molten material Supply device, 60b ... Molten material supply device, 60c ... Molten material supply device, 61 ... Nozzle, 62 ... Discharge port, 65 ... First flow path, 70 ... Flow control mechanism, 70b ... Flow control mechanism, 72 ... Butterfly valve, 72b ... Butterfly valve, 74 ... Valve drive unit, 74b ... Valve drive unit, 75 ... Suction unit, 76 ... Drive shaft, 76b ... Drive shaft, 77 ... Rod, 77e ... Tip portion, 78 ... Rod drive unit, 79 ... Branch Flow path, 80 ... Purge section, 82 ... Delivery path, 84 ... Purge drive section, 86 ... Outlet, 100 ... Three-dimensional modeling device, 100b ... Three-dimensional modeling device, 100c ... Three-dimensional modeling device, 110 ... Discharge unit, 200 ... modeling stage, 210 ... table, 220 ... modeling table, 230 ... moving mechanism, 300 ... control unit, AX ... central axis, Dn ... hole diameter, Ef ... region, Fd ... distribution direction, G ... gap, OB ... tertiary Original model, OBt ... top surface, RX ... rotation axis, W1, W1b, W2, W2b, W3, W4, Wd2 ... width, Wd ... diameter

Claims (12)

A molten material supply device used in 3D modeling equipment.
A nozzle that has a nozzle opening and discharges the molten material in which the thermoplastic resin is melted toward the table.
A flow rate adjusting mechanism that is provided in a first flow path that communicates with the nozzle opening and allows the molten material to flow, and that adjusts the amount of the molten material discharged from the nozzle.
A control unit that controls the flow rate adjusting mechanism is provided.
The flow rate adjusting mechanism includes a butterfly valve formed by processing a part of a drive shaft arranged along a direction intersecting a direction in which the first flow path extends, and the butterfly valve by rotating the drive shaft. With a drive unit to rotate,
The butterfly valve is arranged at a position where the first flow path and the drive shaft intersect.
The control unit adjusts the rotation angle of the butterfly valve to a rotation angle corresponding to the discharge amount determined by using the relative moving speed of the nozzle with respect to the table.
Molten material supply equipment. The molten material supply device according to claim 1, further comprising a nozzle heater for heating the nozzle. The molten material supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
The cross section of the space provided with the butterfly valve in the first flow path in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the molten material is circulated is the portion of the first flow path not provided with the butterfly valve. A molten material supply device that is larger than the cross section in the plane perpendicular to the direction in which it is circulated. The molten material supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
Further, a molten material supply device including a suction unit that sucks the molten material into a branch flow path connected to the first flow path and generates a negative pressure in the first flow path. The molten material supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
Further, a molten material supply device including a purge unit connected to the first flow path and delivering a gas to the first flow path. The molten material supply device according to claim 5.
A molten material supply device in which the position where the purge portion is connected to the first flow path is closer to the nozzle side of the first flow path than the position where the butterfly valve is provided. The molten material supply device according to claim 6.
The control unit is a molten material supply device that operates the purge unit after closing the flow rate adjusting mechanism to stop the flow of materials in the first flow path. A three-dimensional modeling apparatus comprising the molten material supply apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 8.
Further, it is provided with a melting portion for heating the thermoplastic resin above the glass transition point to generate the molten material.
The melted part is
A communication hole is formed to communicate with the nozzle, and a facing portion having a heater is formed.
It has a flat screw facing the facing portion and having a groove-forming surface on which a groove is formed.
A three-dimensional modeling apparatus that heats the thermoplastic resin supplied between the flat screw and the facing portion by the rotation of the flat screw and the heating by the heater. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 9.
A three-dimensional modeling device in which the depth of the groove becomes shallower from the outer circumference of the flat screw toward the center. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus according to claim 9 or 10.
The control unit is a three-dimensional modeling device that does not stop the rotation of the flat screw when the butterfly valve is controlled to interrupt the discharge of the molten material from the nozzle. It is a manufacturing method for 3D objects.
The first step of ejecting the molten material in which the thermoplastic resin is melted toward the table from a nozzle having a nozzle opening,
A second step of adjusting the discharge amount of the molten material from the nozzle by a flow rate adjusting mechanism provided in the first flow communicating with the nozzle opening and flowing the molten material is provided.
The flow rate adjusting mechanism includes a butterfly valve formed by processing a part of a drive shaft arranged along a direction intersecting a direction in which the first flow path extends, and the butterfly valve by rotating the drive shaft. With a drive unit to rotate,
The butterfly valve is arranged at a position where the first flow path and the drive shaft intersect.
The second step is
The step of adjusting the rotation angle of the butterfly valve to a rotation angle corresponding to the discharge amount determined based on the relative moving speed of the nozzle with respect to the table.
Manufacturing method for 3D objects.

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