TW202003206A - Layer-by-layer production methods with selective curing - Google Patents

Layer-by-layer production methods with selective curing Download PDF

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Publication number
TW202003206A
TW202003206A TW108108231A TW108108231A TW202003206A TW 202003206 A TW202003206 A TW 202003206A TW 108108231 A TW108108231 A TW 108108231A TW 108108231 A TW108108231 A TW 108108231A TW 202003206 A TW202003206 A TW 202003206A
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layer
closed
stereo
curing
pixels
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TW108108231A
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Chinese (zh)
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傑佛瑞 尼爾森 巴拓
皮 麥爾斯 尼爾森
尼可拉斯 史考特 倫
亞歷山卓 蘿絲 卡利夫
加里斯 艾倫 虎司
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美商3M新設資產公司
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Publication of TW202003206A publication Critical patent/TW202003206A/en

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    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29CSHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/30Auxiliary operations or equipment
    • B29C64/386Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
    • B29C64/393Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29CSHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/10Processes of additive manufacturing
    • B29C64/106Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material
    • B29C64/124Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29CSHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/20Apparatus for additive manufacturing; Details thereof or accessories therefor
    • B29C64/264Arrangements for irradiation

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)

Abstract

Layer-by-layer methods for producing three-dimensional objects are described. The methods include selective curing steps in which, for at least some layers, all boundaries of the object are cured and remaining portions of the object are selectively-cured. As a result, a least a portion of those layers remains uncured prior to formation of the subsequent layer. In some embodiments, these methods include steps to limit the amount of uncured resin in the final object.

Description

使用選擇性固化之逐層生產方法 Layer-by-layer production method using selective curing

本揭露係關於從一可固化組成物逐層生產三維物體。本揭露之方法包括選擇性固化至少一些層,使得此等層的部分在形成一或多個後續層之前維持未固化。亦揭示進一步用以控制最終物體中之未固化樹脂量的步驟。 The present disclosure relates to the production of three-dimensional objects layer by layer from a curable composition. The method of the present disclosure includes selectively curing at least some layers so that portions of these layers remain uncured before forming one or more subsequent layers. Steps for further controlling the amount of uncured resin in the final object are also disclosed.

在許多積層(additive)或三維(「3D」)製造程序中,各個別層係藉由照射及固化位於有時稱為「建構平面(build plane)」之一區域中之一可光固化樹脂。通常,該建構平面係垂直於該照射方向在X維度及Y維度中延伸之一層。輻射穿透達稱為Z方向的一些深度,界定層的厚度。穿透的深度(從而是層的厚度)係小於X維度及Y維度的數量級,使得該層實質上係一2維平面。 In many additive or three-dimensional ("3D") manufacturing processes, each individual layer is a photocurable resin located in an area sometimes referred to as a "build plane" by irradiation and curing. Generally, the construction plane is a layer extending in the X and Y dimensions perpendicular to the illumination direction. The radiation penetrates to some depth called the Z direction, defining the thickness of the layer. The depth of penetration (and thus the thickness of the layer) is on the order of less than the X dimension and Y dimension, so that the layer is essentially a 2-dimensional plane.

逐層三維製造程序有各式各種,而本揭露之方法可在任何此類程序中使用。因此,提供特定製造技術之細節以提供背景及說明方法的元件,但所屬技術領域中具有通常知識者可輕易將其等應用至任何逐層製造技術,包括逐步及連續液體界面生產(continuous liquid interface production,「CLIP」)程序。 There are various types of layer-by-layer three-dimensional manufacturing procedures, and the method of the present disclosure can be used in any such procedure. Therefore, the details of specific manufacturing techniques are provided to provide the background and elements of the description method, but those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field can easily apply them to any layer-by-layer manufacturing technology, including stepwise and continuous liquid interface production (continuous liquid interface production) production, "CLIP") program.

例如,在傳統的光固化聚合技術中,物體係以一「自上而下(top down)」之程序所創建,其中各新層係形成在先前經固化的層之頂部上。在反向光固化聚合技術中,物體係以一「由下而上(bottom up)」之程序所創建,其中各新層係形成在先前經固化的層之底部處。 For example, in traditional photo-curing polymerization techniques, the object system is created in a "top down" procedure, where each new layer is formed on top of the previously cured layer. In reverse photocuring polymerization technology, the object system is created in a "bottom up" procedure, in which new layers are formed at the bottom of the previously cured layer.

一般而言,用於3D製造程序的組成物已由可光固化樹脂及可選地非揮發性添加劑(諸如填料)組成。在此類應用中,意圖在於保留完成物體中的固化樹脂及填料。然而,可3D製造之材料的範圍已擴大,且現包括於3D建構程序之後從物體移除可光固化樹脂之組成物。例如,可光固化樹脂可作為用於其他組件的一載體。當在3D製造程序中經固化時,樹脂用作一基質以使其他組件保持所欲形狀。在後續步驟中,可例如藉由溶解或燒除樹脂來移除固化樹脂。為了保留物體的所欲形狀,在基質樹脂移除程序之前或期間硬化(例如,固化或燒結)其他組件之一或多者。 In general, the composition used in the 3D manufacturing process has been composed of photocurable resins and optionally nonvolatile additives such as fillers. In such applications, the intention is to retain the cured resin and filler in the finished object. However, the range of materials that can be manufactured in 3D has been expanded and now includes a composition that removes the photocurable resin from the object after the 3D construction process. For example, photocurable resin can be used as a carrier for other components. When cured in the 3D manufacturing process, the resin is used as a matrix to keep other components in the desired shape. In the subsequent steps, the cured resin can be removed, for example, by dissolving or burning off the resin. In order to retain the desired shape of the object, one or more of the other components are hardened (eg, cured or sintered) before or during the matrix resin removal procedure.

例如,WO 2017/127561 A1(「Additive Process of Fluoropolymers」)描述用於製作成形的氟聚合物物品之可3D列印的組成物。此類組成物可包括分散於一可聚合黏合劑材料中之一氟聚合物。該等組成物亦可包括產生膠體(例如水凝膠)的溶劑(例如水)。在後續處理步驟中,將溶劑移除(例如令其蒸發),將黏合劑燒除,並將剩餘的氟聚合物粒子燒結以形成成品。 For example, WO 2017/127561 A1 ("Additive Process of Fluoropolymers") describes a 3D printable composition for making shaped fluoropolymer articles. Such a composition may include a fluoropolymer dispersed in a polymerizable binder material. These compositions may also include solvents (eg, water) that produce colloids (eg, hydrogels). In the subsequent processing steps, the solvent is removed (eg, it is evaporated), the binder is burned off, and the remaining fluoropolymer particles are sintered to form a finished product.

簡而言之,在一態樣中,本揭露提供從包含一可聚合材料之一組成物形成一三維物體之逐層方法。該三維物體包含內部層, 該等內部層包含一立體像素陣列,該陣列包含邊界立體像素及封閉立體像素,該等封閉立體像素對應於由該等邊界立體像素所劃界之該三維物體的一截面積。一層中之各立體像素具有沿著該層之平面中的正交軸所測量出之一寬度W及長度L,且各層具有垂直於該層所測量出之一厚度T。 In short, in one aspect, the present disclosure provides a layer-by-layer method for forming a three-dimensional object from a composition including a polymerizable material. The three-dimensional object includes internal layers, and the internal layers include an array of stereo pixels. The array includes boundary stereo pixels and closed stereo pixels. The closed stereo pixels correspond to one of the three-dimensional objects delimited by the boundary stereo pixels. Cross-sectional area. Each stereo pixel in a layer has a width W and a length L measured along an orthogonal axis in the plane of the layer, and each layer has a thickness T measured perpendicular to the layer.

本揭露之方法包含一選擇性固化步驟,該步驟包含:在一建構區域中提供該組成物之一未固化層;識別經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素及經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素;藉由在該等邊界立體像素中固化該可聚合材料來創建一選擇性固化層;及在該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素中固化該可聚合材料,其中該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素包含小於全部的該等封閉立體像素;及平移該選擇性固化層以重新創建該建構區域;其中固化該可聚合材料包含照射該建構區域中之該組成物達一固化深度D,其中D大於或等於T。 The method of the present disclosure includes a selective curing step, which includes: providing an uncured layer of the composition in a construction area; identifying closed stereo pixels selected for curing and selected to maintain uncured closed stereo Pixels; creating a selective curing layer by curing the polymerizable material in the boundary stereo pixels; and curing the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixels selected for curing, wherein the selected The closed stereoscopic pixels for curing include less than all of the closed stereopixels; and translating the selective curing layer to recreate the construction area; wherein curing the polymerizable material includes irradiating the composition in the construction area to a curing depth D, where D is greater than or equal to T.

在一些實施例中,該等方法進一步包含重複該選擇性固化步驟N次以形成N個連續的選擇性固化層,其中D大至足以固化M個相鄰層,且其中N至少係2且不大於M。在一些實施例中,該N個選擇性固化層之各者之該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素係經識別,使得共同地,該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素子集提供一嵌套(nesting)圖案。 In some embodiments, the methods further include repeating the selective curing step N times to form N consecutive selective curing layers, where D is large enough to cure M adjacent layers, and wherein N is at least 2 and not Greater than M. In some embodiments, the closed voxels selected for curing of each of the N selective curing layers are identified such that, in common, the subset of closed voxels selected for curing provides A nesting pattern.

在一些實施例中,該等方法進一步包含在各組N個選擇性固化步驟之後執行一完全固化步驟。 In some embodiments, the methods further include performing a complete curing step after each set of N selective curing steps.

在一些實施例中,將該等經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素除以該層中之封閉立體像素的總數所得之一比率RUC係大於或等於0.1且不大於0.9。在一些實施例中,M及RUC係經選擇,使得基於封閉單元之總數,該三維物體中之未固化封閉單元的百分比P%不大於10%,其中P%=100*RUCMIn some embodiments, a ratio RUC of the closed voxels selected to maintain uncured divided by the total number of closed voxels in the layer is greater than or equal to 0.1 and not greater than 0.9. In some embodiments, M and RUC are selected such that based on the total number of closed cells, the percentage of uncured closed cells in the three-dimensional object P% is not greater than 10%, where P%=100*RUC M.

在一些實施例中,將該等封閉立體像素分組成包含複數個封閉立體像素的單元,且其中一單元中之該等封閉立體像素的各者係經選擇用於固化或經選擇以維持未固化。 In some embodiments, the closed voxels are grouped into units including a plurality of closed voxels, and each of the closed voxels in one unit is selected for curing or selected to remain uncured .

本揭露之上述發明內容並非意欲說明本發明之各實施例。本發明的一或多個實施例的細節也會在以下說明中提出。經由實施方式及申請專利範圍,本發明之其他特徵、目的、以及優點將顯而易見。 The above disclosure of the present disclosure is not intended to illustrate various embodiments of the present invention. The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are also set forth in the following description. The other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent through the embodiments and the scope of patent application.

100‧‧‧反向立體微影設備(stereolithography apparatus,SLA)/設備 100‧‧‧stereolithography apparatus (SLA)/device

101‧‧‧層 101‧‧‧ storey

102‧‧‧層 102‧‧‧ storey

103‧‧‧層 103‧‧‧ storey

104‧‧‧層 104‧‧‧ storey

105‧‧‧層 105‧‧‧ storey

106‧‧‧層 106‧‧‧ storey

107‧‧‧層 107‧‧‧ storey

108‧‧‧層 108‧‧‧ storey

109‧‧‧層 109‧‧‧ storey

110‧‧‧層 110‧‧‧ storey

120‧‧‧基座 120‧‧‧Dock

122‧‧‧光源 122‧‧‧Light source

124‧‧‧光控制器 124‧‧‧Light controller

126‧‧‧槽 126‧‧‧slot

127‧‧‧光 127‧‧‧ light

130‧‧‧窗 130‧‧‧window

140‧‧‧物體 140‧‧‧Object

160‧‧‧建構平台 160‧‧‧Building platform

170‧‧‧溶液 170‧‧‧ solution

180‧‧‧陣列 180‧‧‧Array

190‧‧‧立體像素 190‧‧‧ stereo pixels

192‧‧‧經填充的立體像素 192‧‧‧ filled stereo pixels

193‧‧‧邊界立體像素 193‧‧‧ boundary stereo pixels

194‧‧‧封閉立體像素 194‧‧‧ Enclosed stereo pixels

194a‧‧‧立體像素 194a‧‧‧ stereo pixels

195‧‧‧經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素/經固化的封閉立體像素 195‧‧‧ Closed stereo pixel selected for curing/cured closed stereo pixel

197‧‧‧經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素/未固化的封閉立體像素 197‧‧‧ Selected to maintain uncured closed voxels/uncured closed voxels

199‧‧‧開放立體像素 199‧‧‧Open stereo pixels

199a‧‧‧開放立體像素 199a‧‧‧Open stereo pixels

212‧‧‧步驟 212‧‧‧Step

214‧‧‧步驟 214‧‧‧Step

218‧‧‧步驟 218‧‧‧Step

312‧‧‧步驟 312‧‧‧Step

313‧‧‧步驟 313‧‧‧Step

315‧‧‧步驟 315‧‧‧Step

318‧‧‧步驟 318‧‧‧Step

400‧‧‧反向立體微影設備/設備 400‧‧‧Reverse stereolithography equipment/equipment

401‧‧‧層 401‧‧‧ storey

401a‧‧‧立體像素 401a‧‧‧stereo pixels

402‧‧‧內部層/層 402‧‧‧Inner layer/layer

402a‧‧‧立體像素 402a‧‧‧stereo pixels

402b‧‧‧立體像素 402b‧‧‧ stereo pixels

403‧‧‧內部層 403‧‧‧Inner layer

403a‧‧‧立體像素 403a‧‧‧stereo pixels

404‧‧‧層 404‧‧‧ storey

404a‧‧‧立體像素 404a‧‧‧stereo pixels

405‧‧‧內部層 405‧‧‧Inner layer

422‧‧‧光源 422‧‧‧Light source

424‧‧‧光控制器 424‧‧‧Light controller

427‧‧‧光 427‧‧‧ light

430‧‧‧窗 430‧‧‧window

440‧‧‧物體 440‧‧‧Object

701‧‧‧嵌套圖案 701‧‧‧ Nested pattern

702‧‧‧層 702‧‧‧ storey

704‧‧‧層 704‧‧‧ storey

711‧‧‧完全嵌套圖案/圖案 711‧‧‧ completely nested patterns/patterns

712‧‧‧層 712‧‧‧ storey

713‧‧‧層 713‧‧‧ storey

714‧‧‧層 714‧‧‧ storey

715‧‧‧完全嵌套圖案/圖案 715‧‧‧ completely nested patterns/patterns

716‧‧‧層 716‧‧‧ storey

717‧‧‧層 717‧‧‧ storey

718‧‧‧層 718‧‧‧ storey

801‧‧‧層 801‧‧‧ storey

802‧‧‧層 802‧‧‧ storey

803‧‧‧層 803‧‧‧ storey

804‧‧‧層 804‧‧‧ storey

1190‧‧‧5×5單元/單元 1190‧‧‧5×5 unit/unit

1193‧‧‧經固化封閉立體像素 1193‧‧‧Cure closed stereo pixels

1194‧‧‧未固化封閉立體像素 1194‧‧‧Uncured closed stereo pixels

B‧‧‧邊界立體像素 B‧‧‧ boundary stereo pixels

C‧‧‧隅角/經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素 C‧‧‧corner/closed stereo pixel selected for curing

D‧‧‧固化深度 D‧‧‧Curing depth

E‧‧‧邊緣 E‧‧‧edge

F‧‧‧面 F‧‧‧ noodles

I‧‧‧封閉立體像素 I‧‧‧closed stereo pixels

L‧‧‧長度 L‧‧‧Length

O‧‧‧開放立體像素 O‧‧‧ open stereo pixels

T‧‧‧厚度 T‧‧‧thickness

U‧‧‧經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素 U‧‧‧ selected to maintain uncured closed stereo pixels

W‧‧‧寬度 W‧‧‧Width

X‧‧‧維度/方向/軸 X‧‧‧Dimension/Direction/Axis

Y‧‧‧維度/方向/軸 Y‧‧‧Dimension/Direction/Axis

Z‧‧‧維度/方向 Z‧‧‧Dimension/Direction

圖1係一例示性立體微影設備(stereolithography apparatus,SLA)的圖。 FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary stereolithography apparatus (SLA).

圖2A係顯示為一立體像素陣列之一層的截面。 FIG. 2A shows a cross section of a layer of a three-dimensional pixel array.

圖2B係完全固化之圖1的層105 Figure 2B is the fully cured layer 105 of Figure 1 .

圖2C圖2B的層105,其具有根據本揭露之一些實施例識別之邊界立體像素(B)、封閉立體像素(I)、及開放立體像素(O)。 FIG. 2C is the layer 105 of FIG. 2B , which has boundary stereo pixels (B), closed stereo pixels (I), and open stereo pixels (O) identified according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖2D圖2C的層105,其所有之經固化邊界立體像素及經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素(C)與經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素(U)均經識別。 FIG. 2D is the layer 105 of FIG. 2C , and all of its cured boundary voxels and closed voxels (C) selected for curing and closed voxels (U) selected to maintain uncured are identified.

圖2E圖2D的層105,其根據本揭露之一些實施例處於一選擇性固化步驟的完成階段。 FIG. 2E is the layer 105 of FIG. 2D , which is in the completion stage of a selective curing step according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖3繪示一先前技術的逐層程序。 FIG. 3 illustrates a layer-by-layer procedure of the prior art.

圖4繪示根據本揭露之一些實施例之使用選擇性固化之一逐層程序。 FIG. 4 illustrates a layer-by-layer process using selective curing according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖5A係一個別立體像素的圖。 FIG. 5A is a diagram of an individual stereo pixel.

圖5B圖5A之該立體像素作為一面連接封閉立體像素的圖。 FIG. 5B is a view in which the stereoscopic pixel of FIG. 5A is connected as a closed stereoscopic pixel on one side.

圖6係一例示性立體微影設備(SLA)之一部分的圖。 FIG. 6 is a diagram of a part of an exemplary stereoscopic lithography apparatus (SLA).

圖7A繪示根據本揭露之一些實施例之兩層嵌套圖案。 7A illustrates a two-layer nesting pattern according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖7B繪示根據本揭露之一些實施例之三層嵌套圖案。 7B illustrates a three-layer nesting pattern according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖8繪示根據本揭露之一些實施例之與選擇性固化層交替的完全固化層。 FIG. 8 illustrates a fully cured layer alternating with a selectively cured layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

圖9繪示用以選擇性固化實例EX-15及EX-16之5立體像素x5立體像素的單元。 FIG. 9 shows a unit for selectively curing the 5 stereo pixels x 5 stereo pixels of the examples EX-15 and EX-16.

一般而言,用以實行本揭露之方法的裝置並無特別限制,且可使用任何已知的逐層3D列印設備。作為一實例,反向立體微影設備(SLA)100的圖係顯示於圖1中。設備100包括基座120,該基座含有光源122、光控制器124、及含有溶液170的槽126。一般而言,溶 液170之組成物並無特別限制,前提是其含有一可固化樹脂。一般而言,可使用任何已知光源,例如,雷射及發光二極體(light emitting diode,LED)。光的波長可經選擇以匹配樹脂的光固化參數,其包括例如可見光波長及紫外光波長。 In general, the device used to implement the disclosed method is not particularly limited, and any known layer-by-layer 3D printing equipment can be used. As an example, the diagram of the reverse stereolithography apparatus (SLA) 100 is shown in FIG. 1 . The apparatus 100 includes a base 120 containing a light source 122 , a light controller 124 , and a tank 126 containing a solution 170 . In general, the composition of the solution 170 is not particularly limited, provided that it contains a curable resin. In general, any known light source can be used, for example, laser and light emitting diode (LED). The wavelength of light can be selected to match the photocuring parameters of the resin, which include, for example, the wavelength of visible light and the wavelength of ultraviolet light.

127經引導通過窗130進入溶液170之層101。起初,層101中的可光固化樹脂係未經固化的。光控制器回應於界定3D物體之一個別層之特徵的資料,並將光僅引導至在溶液170中之可光固化樹脂於其中待固化之層101的彼等區域。一經曝露於光127,層101中之樹脂便在所欲區域中經光固化。層102至層110已根據此程序建構並包含固化樹脂。 The light 127 is guided through the window 130 into the layer 101 of the solution 170 . Initially, the photocurable resin in layer 101 was uncured. The light controller responds to the data defining the characteristics of an individual layer of the 3D object and directs light only to those areas of the layer 101 in which the photocurable resin in solution 170 is to be cured. Once exposed to light 127 , the resin in layer 101 is light cured in the desired area. Layers 102 to 110 have been constructed according to this procedure and contain cured resin.

鑒於材料、應用、及可能的後處理步驟之範圍,如本文中所使用之用語「固化(cured)」及「未固化(cured)」係相對的。一般而言,若樹脂已聚合或交聯至足以達成所欲結構完整性之程度,則代表該樹脂經過「固化(cured)」。例如,在使用可光固化樹脂及可選添加劑的一傳統程序中,較高的聚合度/交聯度可因為樹脂提供最終物體的機械性質而係所欲的。在形成膠體的系統中,較低之聚合度/交聯度可足以在後續的乾燥及燒結步驟中全程使物體保持其所欲之形狀。 Given the range of materials, applications, and possible post-processing steps, the terms "cured" and "cured" as used herein are relative. Generally speaking, if the resin has been polymerized or cross-linked enough to achieve the desired structural integrity, it means that the resin has been "cured". For example, in a conventional procedure using photocurable resins and optional additives, a higher degree of polymerization/crosslinking may be desirable because the resin provides the mechanical properties of the final object. In colloid-forming systems, a lower degree of polymerization/crosslinking may be sufficient to keep the object in its desired shape throughout the subsequent drying and sintering steps.

在建構程序期間,建構平台(亦稱為一建構板)160係在由箭頭Z所指示之方向上平移遠離溶液170。在逐步方法中,建構平台係在各曝露步驟之後增量地平移。在一些應用中,建構平台之位置係循環式遠離及回到該溶液,以協助在先前固化層之下表面與光源122之間提供一未固化樹脂層。 During the construction process, the construction platform (also called a construction board) 160 is translated away from the solution 170 in the direction indicated by the arrow Z. In the step-by-step method, the construction platform is incrementally translated after each exposure step. In some applications, the position of the construction platform is cyclically away from and back to the solution to help provide an uncured resin layer between the lower surface of the previously cured layer and the light source 122 .

在許多應用中,建構程序包括創建數百或甚至數千個層。為了說明的目的,物體140係顯示為僅具有十個層,其等經識別為層101至層110。層110係所形成之第一層,且係黏附至建構平台160。在一些實施例中,層110係直接接合至該平台。在一些實施例中,額外物質可插置在層110與該建構平台之間。例如,在一些實施例中,一離型層或犧牲層可用以簡化從建構平台移除最終物體,同時使損傷最小化。 In many applications, building a program involves creating hundreds or even thousands of layers. For the purpose of illustration, the object 140 is shown as having only ten layers, which are identified as layers 101 to 110 . The layer 110 is the first layer formed and is adhered to the construction platform 160 . In some embodiments, layer 110 is directly bonded to the platform. In some embodiments, additional material may be interposed between the layer 110 and the construction platform. For example, in some embodiments, a release layer or sacrificial layer can be used to simplify the removal of the final object from the construction platform while minimizing damage.

當使用3D列印技術創建一物體時,該物體係由複數個截面層界定,該複數個截面層在對應於建構軸(即,沿其平移建構平台的軸)之Z方向上彼此疊置(參見圖1)。 When using 3D printing technology to create an object, the object system is defined by a plurality of cross-sectional layers that overlap each other in the Z direction corresponding to the construction axis (i.e., the axis along which the construction platform is translated) (See Figure 1 ).

參照圖2A,一層之可能照射的截面係分成陣列180下之立體像素190,該等像素在X軸及Y軸延伸形成建構平面。如本文中所使用,用語「立體像素(voxel)」係指由一像素之厚度、寬度、及長度所界定的三維結構。也就是,用語像素(pixel)係指由寬度及長度所界定的二維截面積,而用語立體像素(voxel)係指由此二維面積與其厚度所界定的體積。 Referring to FIG. 2A , the possible illumination cross-section of one layer is divided into three-dimensional pixels 190 under the array 180 , and these pixels extend in the X-axis and Y-axis to form a construction plane. As used herein, the term "voxel" refers to a three-dimensional structure defined by the thickness, width, and length of a pixel. That is, the term pixel refers to the two-dimensional cross-sectional area defined by the width and length, and the term voxel refers to the volume defined by the two-dimensional area and its thickness.

為簡單起見,該層係顯示為一10乘10陣列。立體像素190的大小及形狀並無特別限制。通常,所欲的是較小尺寸的立體像素以在最終物體的尺寸上達成更大精度。在一些實施例中,立體像素的寬度(W)及長度(L)的範圍係獨立地從40至70微米,例如,40至60微米或甚至約50微米(即,50 +/- 5微米)。雖然顯示的是正方形像素,但仍可使用包括其他多邊形(諸如矩形)的其他形狀。 For simplicity, this layer is shown as a 10 by 10 array. The size and shape of the stereo pixel 190 are not particularly limited. Generally, what is desired is a voxel of a smaller size to achieve greater accuracy in the size of the final object. In some embodiments, the width ( W ) and length ( L ) of the voxel range independently from 40 to 70 microns, for example, 40 to 60 microns or even about 50 microns (ie, 50 +/- 5 microns) . Although square pixels are shown, other shapes including other polygons (such as rectangles) can be used.

層之厚度(T)係與Z軸對準且無特別限制。通常,厚度的選擇係基於光穿透至可固化樹脂中之深度及最終物體之所欲的幾何精度。在一些實施例中,一層的厚度範圍係從25至100微米,例如25至75、40至60、或甚至約50微米(即,50 +/- 5微米)。在一些實施例中,層之厚度對所有層而言可係相同的。在一些實施例中,厚度可在層之間變化。 The thickness ( T ) of the layer is aligned with the Z axis and is not particularly limited. Generally, the thickness is selected based on the depth of light penetration into the curable resin and the desired geometric accuracy of the final object. In some embodiments, the thickness of a layer ranges from 25 to 100 microns, such as 25 to 75, 40 to 60, or even about 50 microns (ie, 50 +/- 5 microns). In some embodiments, the thickness of the layer may be the same for all layers. In some embodiments, the thickness may vary between layers.

光控制器經設計以在逐像素之基礎上選擇性照射組成物。光穿透以提供在Z方向上延伸之一固化深度(D)。通常,固化深度取決於光強度、曝露時間、及組成物性質。一般而言,固化深度隨曝露強度及曝露時間增加而增加。展現較大的光吸收或散射的組成物通常將導致一較低的固化深度。光控制器可用以調諧光源以針對一給定組成物提供所欲的固化深度。如圖2A中所示,在一些實施例中,固化深度D對應於厚度T,該厚度對應於單一層之立體像素。 The light controller is designed to selectively illuminate the composition on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Light penetrates to provide one of the curing depths ( D ) extending in the Z direction. Generally, the curing depth depends on the light intensity, exposure time, and composition properties. Generally speaking, the depth of curing increases with increasing exposure intensity and exposure time. Compositions that exhibit greater light absorption or scattering will generally result in a lower depth of cure. The light controller can be used to tune the light source to provide the desired curing depth for a given composition. As shown in FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, the curing depth D corresponding to the thickness T, which corresponds to the thickness of a single layer of the three-dimensional pixel.

參照圖3,所示的是根據先前技術之一形成物體之逐層方法。個別層係藉由例如低分子量物種(通常係「單體(monomer)」)的光聚合來形成,其中一聚合反應係在特定區域中藉由輻射活化來起始。 Referring to FIG. 3 , shown is a layer-by-layer method of forming an object according to one of the prior art. The individual layers are formed by, for example, photopolymerization of low molecular weight species (usually "monomers"), where a polymerization reaction is initiated by radiation activation in specific areas.

在步驟212中,引入包含一可聚合材料之一組成物以形成一建構層。在步驟214中,照射在對應於所欲物體之立體像素之各者中的組成物,並固化可聚合材料。在步驟218中,將建構平台平移以移動現完全固化層遠離光源,並創建一新建構區域。重複步驟212218以形成最終物體。因此,在此先前技術的程序中,在平移各個別層遠離光源之前,固化對應於該層之物體的完整截面積。 In step 212 , a composition including a polymerizable material is introduced to form a construction layer. In step 214 , the composition in each of the three-dimensional pixels corresponding to the desired object is irradiated, and the polymerizable material is cured. In step 218 , the construction platform is translated to move the now fully cured layer away from the light source and create a new construction area. Repeat steps 212 to 218 to form the final object. Therefore, in this prior art procedure, before translating each individual layer away from the light source, the complete cross-sectional area of the object corresponding to that layer is cured.

參照圖2B,顯示的是對應於圖1之層105的一個此類例示性層。經填充立體像素192係以黑色填充顯示,以指示此等立體像素中的組成物經固化,且將形成最終3D列印物體之結構的部件。開放立體像素199未經填充,且對應於最終部件中的開放區域(即,不含固化樹脂的區域)。此等開放區域對應於最終物體外部的區域及物體內的內部空隙(例如,通道及空腔)。因此,若欲使用先前技術的程序形成圖2B的層105,則得照射經填充立體像素192之各者,並將在步驟218中平移建構平台之前於步驟214中固化彼等立體像素中的組成物。 Referring to FIG. 2B , one such exemplary layer corresponding to layer 105 of FIG. 1 is shown. The filled stereo pixels 192 are filled and displayed in black to indicate that the components in these stereo pixels have been cured and will form part of the structure of the final 3D printed object. The open stereo pixel 199 is not filled and corresponds to an open area in the final part (ie, an area that does not contain cured resin). These open areas correspond to the area outside the final object and the internal voids within the object (eg, channels and cavities). Therefore, if a prior art procedure is to be used to form layer 105 of FIG. 2B , then each of the filled voxels 192 must be illuminated and the composition of their voxels will be cured in step 214 before the construction platform is translated in step 218 Thing.

由於此程序創建離散的完全固化層且接連地在層之間具有Z方向位移,故認為主要的聚合物網路係在X-Y平面中。因為負載必須在固化層之間跨界面轉移,所以此可導致在與X-Y平面內的性質相比之下較差之在Z方向上的機械性質。 Since this procedure creates discrete fully cured layers and successively has a Z-direction displacement between the layers, it is considered that the main polymer network is in the X-Y plane. Because the load must be transferred across the interface between the cured layers, this can result in poorer mechanical properties in the Z direction compared to those in the X-Y plane.

在一些程序中,Z方向的性質由於聚合梯度的關係而進一步受限。通常,最接近輻射源之一層的部分將接收最高強度的輻射。因此,此部分可具有最高的聚合度以及最少之可用於進一步聚合物傳播的剩餘化學活性位點。相比之下,由於能量吸收或在層內從材料散射,最遠離輻射能量源之一層的部分可能接收最小的能量。當形成相鄰於一先前固化層之一第二層時,來自先前層之最大反應的表面 必須與接收最低能量劑量的新層之區域起反應。此可導致不利的聚合條件,限制跨相鄰層界線的聚合並減少層間黏著性。 In some procedures, the nature of the Z direction is further restricted due to the relationship of the polymerization gradient. Generally, the part closest to one layer of the radiation source will receive the highest intensity radiation. Therefore, this part may have the highest degree of polymerization and the fewest remaining chemically active sites available for further polymer propagation. In contrast, due to energy absorption or scattering from the material within the layer, the part of the layer furthest away from the source of radiant energy may receive the least amount of energy. When forming a second layer adjacent to a previously cured layer, the surface of the largest reaction from the previous layer must react with the area of the new layer receiving the lowest energy dose. This can lead to unfavorable polymerization conditions, limit polymerization across adjacent layer boundaries and reduce interlayer adhesion.

結果,先前技術的逐層生產方法可導致具有顯著各向異性之物體的形成。相較於建構平面(即,X-Y平面)中的性質,在Z方向上之層之間的機械性質(諸如模數及強度)可低上許多。例如,相較於使物體在X方向或Y方向上變形或破裂所需的負載,不良的層間黏著性可導致在低負載下於Z方向上的層間分離。 As a result, the prior art layer-by-layer production method can lead to the formation of objects with significant anisotropy. Compared to the properties in the construction plane (ie, X-Y plane), the mechanical properties (such as modulus and strength) between layers in the Z direction can be much lower. For example, poor interlayer adhesion can lead to interlayer separation in the Z direction at low loads compared to the load required to deform or break an object in the X or Y direction.

當使用相對少量的反應性黏合劑生產部件以使相對惰性的粒子保持一形狀時或者其中整體強度由於溶劑的存在而進一步減少(諸如當製造膠體時),此等問題可係特別重要的。例如,在黏合劑材料需要在移除揮發性成分(包括溶劑)的同時維持形狀及層間連續性時,任何維度中的顯著弱點可係無法接受的。 These problems can be particularly important when producing parts using relatively small amounts of reactive binders to keep relatively inert particles in a shape or where the overall strength is further reduced by the presence of solvents (such as when making colloids). For example, when adhesive materials need to remove volatile components (including solvents) while maintaining shape and continuity between layers, significant weaknesses in any dimension may be unacceptable.

因此,雖然三維逐層製造程序具有許多優點,此類程序頻繁地導致各向異性材料性質,且改善層間黏著性中的挑戰仍然存在。 Therefore, although three-dimensional layer-by-layer manufacturing procedures have many advantages, such procedures frequently lead to anisotropic material properties, and challenges in improving interlayer adhesion remain.

本揭露之一例示性方法係參照圖2B圖2E顯示於圖4中。再次,圖2B繪示對應於層105之物體的所欲最終截面。在最終物體中,經填充立體像素192中之組成物將固化,而開放立體像素199將為空。 An exemplary method of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 4 with reference to FIGS. 2B to 2E . Again, FIG. 2B illustrates the desired final cross-section of the object corresponding to layer 105 . In the final object, the composition in filled voxels 192 will solidify, while open voxels 199 will be empty.

參照圖2C,層105之實心截面積係藉由首先識別形成物體界線之邊界立體像素193來界定。此等邊界立體像素係由字母「B」所識別。接下來,形成物體之內部實心部分的封閉立體像素194 係由字母「I」所識別。最後,開放立體像素199係由字母「O」識別,因為其等形成物體之開放的或未經填充的外部及內部部分。 Referring to FIG. 2C , the solid cross-sectional area of the layer 105 is defined by first identifying the boundary stereo pixels 193 forming the object boundary. These boundary voxels are identified by the letter " B ". Next, the enclosed solid pixels 194 forming the inner solid part of the object are identified by the letter " I ". Finally, the open stereo pixels 199 are identified by the letter " O " because they etc. form the open or unfilled outer and inner parts of the object.

有若干選項用於區別一邊界立體像素與一封閉立體像素。參照圖5A,立體像素194a具有六個面F、十二個邊緣E、及八個隅角C。參照圖5B,封閉的立體像素194a至少與相鄰的經填充立體像素192(邊界立體像素或其他封閉立體像素之任一者)共享其所有的面。由於一立體像素具有六個面,此一封閉立體像素係稱為「六連接(six-connected)」。此一封閉立體像素亦可稱為一「面連接(face-connected)」立體像素。在此類實施例中,一邊界立體像素係小於六連接,意即,一邊界立體像素與一開放立體像素共享其之至少一面。 There are several options for distinguishing between a boundary stereo pixel and a closed stereo pixel. Referring to FIG. 5A , the stereo pixel 194a has six faces F , twelve edges E , and eight corners C. Referring to FIG. 5B , the closed voxel 194a shares at least all of its faces with the adjacent filled voxel 192 (either a boundary voxel or any other closed voxel). Since a stereo pixel has six faces, this closed stereo pixel is called "six-connected". This closed stereo pixel may also be referred to as a "face-connected" stereo pixel. In such an embodiment, a boundary stereo pixel is less than six connections, which means that a boundary stereo pixel and an open stereo pixel share at least one side thereof.

雖然此定義可適用於一些應用,在一些實施例中,確保一封閉立體像素的所有邊緣亦均相鄰於經填充立體像素可係所欲的。在此類實施例中,一封閉立體像素必須與其他經填充立體像素共享其所有的面及邊緣。由於一立體像素具有六個面及十二個邊緣,此一封閉立體像素係稱為「十八連接(eighteen-connected)」。此一封閉立體像素亦可稱為一「面與邊緣連接(face and edge-connected)」立體像素。在此類實施例中,一邊界立體像素係小於十八連接。 Although this definition may be suitable for some applications, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to ensure that all edges of a closed voxel are also adjacent to the filled voxel. In such embodiments, a closed voxel must share all its faces and edges with other filled voxels. Since a stereo pixel has six faces and twelve edges, this closed stereo pixel is called "eighteen-connected". This closed stereo pixel can also be called a "face and edge-connected" stereo pixel. In such embodiments, a boundary voxel is less than eighteen connections.

在一些實施例中,確保甚至是一封閉立體像素的所有隅角均相鄰於經填充立體像素可係所欲的。在此類實施例中,一封閉立體像素必須與其他經填充立體像素共享其所有的面、邊緣、與隅角。由於一立體像素具有六個面、十二個邊緣、及八個隅角,此一封閉立體像素係稱為「二十六連接(twenty-six-connected)」。此一封閉立體 像素亦可稱為一「面、邊緣、與隅角連接(face,edge,and corner-connected)」立體像素。在此類實施例中,一邊界立體像素係小於二十六連接。 In some embodiments, it may be desirable to ensure that all corners of even a closed voxel are adjacent to the filled voxel. In such an embodiment, a closed voxel must share all of its faces, edges, and corners with other filled voxels. Since a stereo pixel has six faces, twelve edges, and eight corners, this closed stereo pixel is called "twenty-six-connected". This closed stereo pixel can also be called a "face, edge, and corner-connected" stereo pixel. In such an embodiment, a boundary voxel is less than twenty-six connections.

如本文中所使用,除非上下文另有要求,否則用語「封閉立體像素(enclosed voxel)」包括面連接立體像素、面與邊緣連接立體像素、以及面、邊緣、與隅角連接立體像素。用語「六連接或面連接(six-connected or face-connected)」、「十八連接或面與邊緣連接(eighteen-connected or face and edge connected)」、以及「二十六連接或面、邊緣、與隅角連接(twenty-six-connected,or face,edge,and corner connected)」係在指稱封閉立體像素的特定子集時使用。用語「邊界立體像素(border voxel)」則取決於在特定實施例中如何定義封閉立體像素。 As used herein, unless the context requires otherwise, the term "enclosed voxel" includes face-connected voxel, face-to-edge voxel, and face, edge, and corner-connected voxel. The terms ``six-connected or face-connected'', ``eighteen-connected or face and edge connected'' and ``twenty-six connected or face and edge connected'' "Twenty-six-connected, or face, edge, and corner connected" is used when referring to a specific subset of closed voxels. The term "border voxel" depends on how closed voxels are defined in certain embodiments.

欲判定一經填充立體像素係一邊界立體像素或一封閉立體像素,僅考慮建構區域中的層係不足的。反而,亦必須考慮先前層及後續層兩者,以判定所欲的面連接、面與邊緣連接、面、邊緣、與隅角連接是否存在。然而,為了簡單起見,下列描述僅係指建構區域中之單一層。為此目的,假設居前層及後續層中之經填充的及開放的立體像素將使得在邊界立體像素及封閉立體像素的定義中滿足所欲條件,例如,所建構的層與居前層及後續層是否相同。 To determine whether a filled stereo pixel is a boundary stereo pixel or a closed stereo pixel, only the layer system in the construction area is insufficient. Instead, both the previous layer and the subsequent layer must also be considered to determine whether the desired face connection, face to edge connection, face, edge, and corner connection exists. However, for simplicity, the following description refers only to a single layer in the construction area. For this purpose, it is assumed that the filled and open voxels in the antecedent layer and subsequent layers will satisfy the desired conditions in the definition of boundary voxels and closed voxels. For example, the constructed layer and the antecedent layer and Whether subsequent layers are the same.

參照圖2C,面連接立體像素係視為封閉立體像素。再次,假設建構平面中之每一經填充立體像素係相鄰於居前層及後續層之二者中的一經填充立體像素,則每一經填充立體像素之上部面及下 部面將與一相鄰的經填充立體像素共享。因此,在X-Y平面中與一開放立體像素199共享至少一面的任何立體像素係一邊界立體像素193。結果,物體之所有表面,包括外部表面及內部表面兩者,係藉由邊界立體像素193來劃界。封閉立體像素194不與一開放立體像素199共享任何面。因此,一封閉立體像素194的各面,包括其上部面及下部面,係與一邊界立體像素193或另一封閉立體像素194之任一者的一面共享。若封閉立體像素已定義為面與邊緣連接立體像素,則立體像素194a將係一邊界立體像素,因為其與開放立體像素199a共享一邊緣。 Referring to FIG. 2C , the surface-connected stereo pixels are regarded as closed stereo pixels. Again, assuming that each filled voxel in the construction plane is adjacent to a filled voxel in both the preceding layer and the subsequent layer, the upper and lower faces of each filled voxel will be adjacent to a Shared by filled voxels. Therefore, any stereo pixel sharing at least one side with an open stereo pixel 199 in the XY plane is a boundary stereo pixel 193 . As a result, all surfaces of the object, including both the outer surface and the inner surface, are delimited by the boundary voxels 193 . Closed voxel 194 does not share any face with an open voxel 199 . Therefore, each face of a closed voxel 194 , including its upper face and lower face, is shared with one face of either a boundary voxel 193 or another closed voxel 194 . If the closed stereo pixel has been defined as a face-to-edge connected stereo pixel, the stereo pixel 194a will be a boundary stereo pixel because it shares an edge with the open stereo pixel 199a .

圖4所示,在步驟312中,引入包含一可聚合材料之一組成物以形成一建構層。 As shown in FIG. 4, in step 312, introducing one polymerizable material comprising a composition layer to form a construct.

在步驟313中,照射各邊界立體像素中的組成物並使可聚合材料固化。參照圖2D,此導致邊界立體像素193之各者中的固化材料。在本揭露之方法中,當形成各層時,所有邊界立體像素均經固化,而僅有一些封閉立體像素經選擇性固化。藉由固化所有邊界立體像素,可實質上減少或消除表面缺陷。此外,封閉未固化之封閉立體像素中的樹脂,且抑制或阻礙未固化樹脂至意欲維持開放之區域中的流動。 In step 313 , the composition in each boundary stereo pixel is irradiated and the polymerizable material is cured. Referring to FIG. 2D , this results in cured material in each of the boundary voxels 193 . In the method of the present disclosure, when each layer is formed, all boundary stereo pixels are cured, and only some closed stereo pixels are selectively cured. By curing all boundary stereo pixels, surface defects can be substantially reduced or eliminated. In addition, the resin in the closed solid pixel of the uncured is enclosed, and the flow of the uncured resin into the area intended to be kept open is suppressed or hindered.

參照圖2C圖2D,在本揭露之方法中,一層的封閉立體像素並非全部均在相同步驟中經固化。取而代之地,將封閉立體像素194分為兩個子集:經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素195(以字母 「C」識別)以及經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素197(以字母「U」識別)。 2C and 2D , in the method of the present disclosure, not all of the closed stereo pixels in one layer are cured in the same step. Instead, the closed voxel 194 is divided into two subsets: the closed voxel 195 selected for curing (identified by the letter " C ") and the closed voxel 197 selected to maintain uncured (with the letter " U "Recognition).

針對任何給定層,經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素之百分率的範圍可從0至100%,且對應地,經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素之百分率的範圍可從100%至0%。然而,在本揭露之方法中,對至少一些層而言,經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素之百分率大於0%。 For any given layer, the percentage of closed voxels selected for curing can range from 0 to 100%, and correspondingly, the percentage of closed voxels selected to maintain uncured can range from 100% to 0 %. However, in the method of the present disclosure, for at least some layers, the percentage of closed stereo pixels that are selected to maintain uncured is greater than 0%.

在步驟315中,照射經選擇用於固化的各封閉立體像素195中的組成物並使可聚合材料固化。步驟313及步驟315可同時或以任一順序執行。在一些實施例中,邊界立體像素及經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素係在相同步驟中經固化。 In step 315 , the composition in each closed voxel 195 selected for curing is irradiated and the polymerizable material is cured. Steps 313 and 315 can be executed simultaneously or in any order. In some embodiments, the boundary voxels and the closed voxels selected for curing are cured in the same step.

在步驟318中,將建構平台平移以移動部分固化層(如圖3E所示)遠離光源以創建一新建構區域。意即,步驟318發生在照射經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素197中的組成物之前。在圖2E中,經固化的邊界立體像素193係以黑色填充顯示,以與以散列線填充顯示之經固化的封閉立體像素195產生區別。未固化的封閉立體像素197係以字母「U」識別,且開放立體像素199未經填充。重複步驟312318以形成成品。 In step 318, the construction of the platform to move the partially cured layer translational (e.g., FIG. 3E) remote from the source region to create a new construct. That is, step 318 occurs before irradiating the composition in the closed voxel 197 selected to maintain uncured. In FIG. 2E , the cured boundary stereo pixel 193 is displayed with a black fill to distinguish it from the cured closed stereo pixel 195 displayed with a hash line fill. Uncured closed stereo pixels 197 are identified by the letter " U ", and open stereo pixels 199 are not filled. Repeat steps 312 to 318 to form the finished product.

若未執行進一步的固化步驟,則最終物體將包含由邊界立體像素所界定之一固化邊界以及由邊界立體像素所劃界之一封閉內部體積。一些或全部的封閉立體像素之組成物將含有未固化的組成物。在一些實施例中,此一物體可適於其預期應用。 If no further curing step is performed, the final object will contain a solidified boundary defined by the boundary voxels and a closed internal volume defined by the boundary voxels. Some or all of the closed voxel composition will contain uncured composition. In some embodiments, such an object may be suitable for its intended application.

然而,在許多應用中,較佳的是一經完全固化的物體。在一些實施例中,物體可在3D列印程序完成之後經後固化。例如,在一些實施例中,物體可經受照射(例如,可見光、紅外光、紫外光、微波、電子束、或其他形式的照射)以固化在3D列印操作中經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素中的組成物。在一些實施例中,在3D列印操作中經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素中的組成物可經熱固化。 However, in many applications, it is preferred to have a fully cured object. In some embodiments, the object may be post-cured after the 3D printing process is completed. For example, in some embodiments, the object may be subjected to irradiation (eg, visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, microwaves, electron beams, or other forms of irradiation) to cure in a 3D printing operation selected to maintain an uncured seal The composition of the stereo pixels. In some embodiments, the composition in the closed voxel selected to maintain uncured in the 3D printing operation may be thermally cured.

在一些實施例中,組成物可經選擇,使得其在不需要外部能量的情況下後固化。例如,在一些實施例中,組成物可經選擇使得其自行固化。在此類實施例中,3D製造程序可用以迅速形成物體的邊界及可選地經選擇的內部部分,而剩餘的內部部分接續在3D製造程序之後較緩慢地固化。 In some embodiments, the composition may be selected such that it is post-cured without external energy. For example, in some embodiments, the composition may be selected such that it cures on its own. In such embodiments, the 3D manufacturing process may be used to quickly form the boundary of the object and optionally the selected internal parts, while the remaining internal parts continue to solidify more slowly after the 3D manufacturing process.

然而,在許多應用中,可係所欲的是一經完成3D製造程序就具有一經完全固化的物體。因此,在一些實施例中,本揭露之方法可經修改以產生跨超過一個建構層延伸之一建構區域。 However, in many applications, it may be desirable to have a fully cured object upon completion of the 3D manufacturing process. Therefore, in some embodiments, the method of the present disclosure may be modified to produce a construction region that extends across more than one construction layer.

反向立體微影設備400的圖係顯示於圖6中。設備400包括光源422及光控制器424。光427經引導通過窗430進入物體440之一或多個層。光控制器回應於界定3D物體之一個別層之特徵的資料,並僅將光引導至可光固化樹脂於其中待固化之層401的彼等區域。一經曝露於光427,層401中之樹脂係在所欲區域中經光固化。 The diagram of the reverse stereolithography apparatus 400 is shown in FIG. 6 . The device 400 includes a light source 422 and a light controller 424 . Light 427 is guided through window 430 into one or more layers of object 440 . The light controller responds to the data defining the characteristics of an individual layer of the 3D object and only directs light to those areas of the layer 401 in which the photocurable resin is to be cured. Once exposed to light 427 , the resin in layer 401 is light cured in the desired area.

內部層402至內部層405已根據本揭露之方法建構。因此,此等層將包括不含樹脂之開放立體像素(「O」)、含固化樹脂之邊界立體像素(「B」)、含固化樹脂之封閉立體像素(「C」)、及含未固 化樹脂之封閉立體像素(「U」)的一些組合。欲生產一最終部件同時最小化或消除含未固化樹脂之封閉立體像素的百分比,在一些實施例中,光源、光控制器、及層厚度中之一或多者可經修改以提供超過單層厚度T之一固化深度DThe inner layer 402 to the inner layer 405 have been constructed according to the method of the present disclosure. Therefore, these layers will include open stereo pixels without resin (" O "), border stereo pixels with cured resin (" B "), closed stereo pixels with cured resin (" C "), and uncured Some combinations of closed stereo pixels (" U ") of resin. To produce a final part while minimizing or eliminating the percentage of closed stereo pixels containing uncured resin, in some embodiments, one or more of the light source, light controller, and layer thickness can be modified to provide more than a single layer One of the thickness T is the curing depth D.

圖6所示,當照射層401時,固化深度D亦足以固化層402層403。因此,當照射及固化層401中之立體像素401a時,亦以足夠的能量照射立體像素402a403a以固化組成物。如所形成者,立體像素402a403a係含有未固化樹脂之封閉立體像素。然而,在以固化深度D形成層401及照射立體像素401a之後,立體像素402a402b中之樹脂係經固化,將其等轉換成含固化樹脂之封閉立體像素。 As shown in FIG. 6, when the layer 401 is irradiated, the depth D is sufficient to cure the cured layer 402 and layer 403. Therefore, when the stereo pixel 401a in the layer 401 is irradiated and cured, the stereo pixel 402a and 403a are also irradiated with sufficient energy to cure the composition. As formed, the stereo pixels 402a and 403a are closed stereo pixels containing uncured resin. However, after the layer 401 is formed with the curing depth D and the stereo pixel 401a is irradiated, the resin in the stereo pixels 402a and 402b is cured and converted into a closed stereo pixel containing the cured resin.

因為固化深度D不足以固化層404,立體像素404a中的樹脂維持低固化或未固化。取決於所欲之最終用途,一些程度的未固化立體像素可係可接受的。然而,在一些實施例中,可係所欲的是最小化或消除未固化單元的存在。 Because the curing depth D is insufficient to cure the layer 404 , the resin in the stereo pixel 404a remains low cured or uncured. Depending on the desired end use, some degree of uncured voxels may be acceptable. However, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to minimize or eliminate the presence of uncured cells.

在一些實施例中,用以選擇含未固化樹脂之封閉立體像素之子集的演算法可經程式化以確保相鄰的未固化立體像素的總厚度T(total)不大於式1中所示之固化深度DIn some embodiments, the algorithm used to select a subset of closed stereo pixels containing uncured resin can be programmed to ensure that the total thickness T(total) of adjacent uncured stereo pixels is not greater than that shown in Equation 1. Curing depth D.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0016-1
若各層的厚度係T,則可同時固化的最大層數M
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0016-2
若層厚度改變,則
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0017-3
其中Tavg係跨固化深度D延伸的層之平均厚度。
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0016-1
If the thickness of each layer is T , the maximum number of layers that can be cured simultaneously is M
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0016-2
If the layer thickness changes, then
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0017-3
Where Tavg is the average thickness of the layer extending across the curing depth D.

在一些實施例中,用以選擇含固化樹脂及未固化樹脂之封閉立體像素之子集的演算法可經程式化以提供含固化樹脂之封閉單元的一完全嵌套圖案。例如,若固化深度足以固化M層,則達成一完全嵌套圖案所需之重複圖案數目應小於或等於M。例如,若固化深度足以固化三個層,則可使用一演算法,其傳輸需要兩個嵌套圖案(圖7A)或三個嵌套圖案(圖7B)之固化(「C」)及未固化(「U」)封閉單元之一圖案。 In some embodiments, the algorithm for selecting a subset of closed voxels containing cured resin and uncured resin can be programmed to provide a completely nested pattern of closed cells containing cured resin. For example, if the curing depth is sufficient to cure the M layer, the number of repeating patterns required to achieve a completely nested pattern should be less than or equal to M For example, if the curing depth is sufficient to cure three layers, an algorithm can be used, which requires two nested patterns ( Figure 7A ) or three nested patterns ( Figure 7B ) to be cured (" C ") and uncured (“ U ”) One of the patterns of closed cells.

圖7A所示,嵌套圖案701由用於相鄰的層702及層704中的兩個互補圖案組成。欲達成一嵌套圖案,層702之各未固化封閉單元係相鄰於層704中之一固化封閉單元。在一些實施例中,層702之各固化封閉單元(C)係相鄰於層704中之一未固化封閉單元(U)。在此一交替的嵌套單元圖案中,當垂直移動通過相鄰封閉單元之一堆疊時,演算法將使固化及未固化封閉單元交替。在一些實施例中,固化單元中可存在一重疊。在一些實施例中,一層中之一固化封閉單元可相鄰於相鄰層中之另一固化單元。因此,交替圖案係完全嵌套圖案的一子集。在一些實施例中,圖案可跨Z方向改變。例如,可隨機或獨立地選擇用於每個偶數層的圖案,且用於每個奇數層的圖案則接著將係互補圖案。 As shown in Figures 7A, a nested pattern 701 adjacent to layer 702 and layer 704 is composed of two complementary patterns. To achieve a nested pattern, each uncured closed cell of layer 702 is adjacent to a cured closed cell in layer 704 . In some embodiments, each cured closed cell ( C ) of layer 702 is adjacent to an uncured closed cell ( U ) in layer 704 . In this alternate nested cell pattern, when moving vertically through one of the adjacent closed cell stacks, the algorithm will alternate between cured and uncured closed cells. In some embodiments, there may be an overlap in the curing unit. In some embodiments, one curing closed cell in one layer may be adjacent to another curing cell in an adjacent layer. Therefore, alternating patterns are a subset of completely nested patterns. In some embodiments, the pattern may change across the Z direction. For example, the pattern for each even-numbered layer may be selected randomly or independently, and the pattern for each odd-numbered layer will then be a complementary pattern.

參照圖7B,完全嵌套圖案711跨層712713、及714延伸。完全嵌套圖案715亦跨三層(716717、及718)延伸。演算法係經程式化以確保當存在三個封閉單元跨全部三層對準時,封閉單元中之至少一者將係一固化封閉單元。 7B , the fully nested pattern 711 extends across layers 712 , 713 , and 714 . The fully nested pattern 715 also extends across three layers ( 716 , 717 , and 718 ). The algorithm is programmed to ensure that when there are three closed cells aligned across all three layers, at least one of the closed cells will be a solidified closed cell.

在一些實施例中,各完全嵌套圖案跨物體的總Z維度係相同的。在一些實施例中,完全嵌套圖案可經獨立地選擇。在一些實施例中,參照圖案711,可使用三層交替圖案,其中在跨該三層之三個相鄰封閉立體像素的各群組中,有一個且僅有一個固化封閉立體像素。在一些實施例中,例如,在圖案715中,在跨三層之三個相鄰封閉立體像素的各群組中可有兩個或甚至三個固化封閉立體像素。在一些實施例中,一或多層中的圖案可係隨機的,且一或多層中的圖案可經選擇以確保在跨三層之三個相鄰封閉立體像素的各群組中有至少一個固化封閉立體像素。 In some embodiments, the total Z dimension of each fully nested pattern across the object is the same. In some embodiments, fully nested patterns can be independently selected. In some embodiments, referring to the pattern 711 , a three-layer alternating pattern may be used, where there is one and only one cured closed voxel in each group of three adjacent closed voxels across the three layers. In some embodiments, for example, in pattern 715 , there may be two or even three cured closed voxels in each group of three adjacent closed voxels across three layers. In some embodiments, the pattern in one or more layers may be random, and the pattern in one or more layers may be selected to ensure that at least one of each group of three adjacent closed voxels across three layers is cured Close the voxel.

針對跨較大層數(例如,M=4、M=5、或甚至更大)延伸之一固化深度D可創建完全嵌套圖案,其等需要至多M的任何層數。例如,若D係使得M=5(即,可同時固化5層),則可使用需要2、3、4、或甚至5層的嵌套圖案。經選擇用於層之各群組的圖案可係相同的或者可經獨立地選擇。例如,在一些實施例中,經選擇以固化及未固化的封閉立體像素可經隨機選擇,而在至少一層中經選擇以固化的封閉立體像素可經選擇以確保在跨M個相鄰層延伸之封閉單元的各群組中有至少一個固化封閉單元。 For extending a curing depth D across a larger number of layers (eg, M=4, M=5, or even greater), a completely nested pattern can be created, which requires any number of layers up to M. For example, if D is such that M=5 (ie, 5 layers can be cured simultaneously), then a nested pattern that requires 2, 3, 4, or even 5 layers can be used. The patterns selected for each group of layers may be the same or may be independently selected. For example, in some embodiments, closed voxels selected to be cured and uncured may be randomly selected, and closed voxels selected to be cured in at least one layer may be selected to ensure extension across M adjacent layers There is at least one solidified closed unit in each group of closed units.

在一些實施例中,用以選擇封閉立體像素之子集的演算法可提供完全固化層的週期性布局。例如,參照圖8,若固化深度足以固化三層,則傳輸固化(「C」)及未固化(「U」)封閉單元之一圖案的一演算法可用於兩層(801803)的集合,該等集合與僅含固化立體像素(即,邊界立體像素或如所示之固化封閉立體像素(「C」)之任一者)的層(802804)交錯。層801803之集合中的固化及未固化封閉立體像素的圖案並無限制,並可包括任何所欲圖案,包括固化及未固化封閉立體像素之隨機圖案。在一些實施例中,二或更多個完全固化層可穿插在選擇性固化層之間。 In some embodiments, the algorithm used to select a subset of closed voxels may provide a periodic layout of fully cured layers. For example, referring to FIG. 8 , if the curing depth is sufficient to cure three layers, an algorithm that transmits one of the patterns of the cured (“ C ”) and uncured (“ U ”) closed cells can be used for the set of two layers ( 801 and 803 ) These sets are interleaved with layers ( 802 and 804 ) containing only cured voxels (ie, either of the boundary voxels or the cured closed voxels (“ C ”) as shown). The pattern of cured and uncured closed voxels in the set of layers 801 and 803 is not limited, and may include any desired pattern, including random patterns of cured and uncured closed voxels. In some embodiments, two or more fully cured layers may be interposed between the selectively cured layers.

在一些實施例中,避免完全固化層及完全嵌套圖案可係所欲的。當使用固化及未固化封閉單元的隨機圖案時,在最終物體中超過未固化封閉單元之一最大臨限的概率可藉由選擇各層中維持未固化的封閉單元之比率RUC來控制,其中RUC等於一層中維持未固化之封閉單元的數目除以該層中之封閉單元的總數之比率。 In some embodiments, it may be desirable to avoid fully cured layers and fully nested patterns. When using random patterns of cured and uncured closed cells, the probability of exceeding one of the maximum thresholds of uncured closed cells in the final object can be controlled by selecting the ratio RUC of the uncured closed cells in each layer, where RUC is equal to The ratio of the number of closed cells that remain uncured in a layer divided by the total number of closed cells in that layer.

若基於固化深度D及層的厚度(或平均厚度)T可固化M個層,則當固化第M+1層時,若有具有相鄰之未固化封閉單元的M個連續層,未固化封閉單元將保留。針對各立體像素,此之發生概率Pv係:Pv=RUCM (4) If M layers can be cured based on curing depth D and layer thickness (or average thickness) T , when M+1 layer is cured, if there are M continuous layers with adjacent uncured closed cells, the uncured closed The unit will remain. For each stereo pixel, the probability of occurrence Pv is: Pv=RUC M (4)

各層可包含數百萬個立體像素,且最終物體可含有數千個此類層。結果,使用完全隨機的圖案將在成品中導致一些百分率的 未固化立體像素。方程式(4)可用以基於封閉單元之總數來評估未固化封閉單元的最終百分比P%。 Each layer may contain millions of voxels, and the final object may contain thousands of such layers. As a result, the use of completely random patterns will result in some percentage of uncured voxels in the finished product. Equation (4) can be used to estimate the final percentage P% of uncured closed cells based on the total number of closed cells.

P%=100*RUCM (5) P%=100*RUC M (5)

使用方程式(5),可選擇未固化單元的比率(RUC)及以可固化層數(M)表示的固化深度,以達成未固化封閉立體像素之一所欲百分比P%。例如,在一些實施例中,將最終物體中之未固化封閉立體像素的百分比限制在不大於10%(例如,不大於5%、不大於1%、不大於0.5%、或甚至不大於0.1%)可係所欲的。 Using equation (5), the ratio of uncured units (RUC) and the curing depth expressed as the number of curable layers (M) can be selected to achieve a desired percentage P% of one of the uncured closed stereo pixels. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of uncured closed voxels in the final object is limited to no greater than 10% (eg, no greater than 5%, no greater than 1%, no greater than 0.5%, or even no greater than 0.1% ) May be as desired.

參照表1,若最終物體中之未固化封閉立體像素的臨限值P%經選擇為1.0%,則當使用0.10的RUC(即,10%的封閉單元經隨機選擇以維持未固化)時,固化深度可低至2層。然而,若將RUC增加至0.30(即,30%的封閉單元經隨機選擇以維持未固化),則固化深度將必須增加至4層以達成小於或等於1.0%之臨限值的P%值。 Referring to Table 1, if the threshold P% of the uncured closed voxels in the final object is selected as 1.0%, when using a RUC of 0.10 (ie, 10% of the closed cells are randomly selected to maintain uncured), The curing depth can be as low as 2 layers. However, if the RUC is increased to 0.30 (ie, 30% of the closed cells are randomly selected to remain uncured), the curing depth will have to be increased to 4 layers to achieve a P% value that is less than or equal to a threshold of 1.0%.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0020-4
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0020-4

方程式(5)可經重新配置以基於以層數M表示的固化深度及臨限值P來判定可使用之RUC的最大值,其中P=P%/100。 Equation (5) can be reconfigured to determine the maximum value of RUC that can be used based on the curing depth expressed in the number of layers M and the threshold value P, where P=P%/100.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0021-5
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0021-5

參照表2,若最終物體中之未固化封閉立體像素的最大百分比P%經選擇成不大於1%且固化深度僅係2層,則RUC的最大值將不大於0.10(即,至多10%的封閉單元可經隨機選擇以維持未固化)。然而,若將固化深度增加至5層,則至多40%的封閉單元可經隨機選擇以維持未固化(即,RUC可高達0.40),同時維持低於1%的臨限。 Referring to Table 2, if the maximum percentage P% of uncured closed voxels in the final object is selected to be no greater than 1% and the curing depth is only 2 layers, the maximum value of RUC will not be greater than 0.10 (ie, at most 10% of Closed cells can be randomly selected to remain uncured). However, if the curing depth is increased to 5 layers, at most 40% of the closed cells can be randomly selected to remain uncured (ie, RUC can be as high as 0.40) while maintaining a threshold of less than 1%.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0021-6
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0021-6

在一些實施例中,RUC係至少0.1,例如,至少0.2或甚至至少0.3。在一些實施例中,RUC係不大於0.9(例如係0.8)或甚至不大於0.7。在一些實施例中,RUC係介於0.2與0.8之間,例如,介於0.3與0.7之間或甚至介於0.4與0.6之間(包括端點)。在 一些實施例中,RUC對全部層而言均相同。在一些實施例中,RUC可針對各層獨立地選擇。在一些實施例中,可針對相鄰層之一群組選擇RUC,使得用於相鄰層之RUC的和係至少1.0(例如至少1.1)。 In some embodiments, the RUC is at least 0.1, for example, at least 0.2 or even at least 0.3. In some embodiments, the RUC is not greater than 0.9 (eg, is 0.8) or even not greater than 0.7. In some embodiments, the RUC is between 0.2 and 0.8, for example, between 0.3 and 0.7 or even between 0.4 and 0.6 (inclusive). In some embodiments, the RUC is the same for all layers. In some embodiments, RUC may be independently selected for each layer. In some embodiments, RUC may be selected for a group of adjacent layers such that the sum of RUC for adjacent layers is at least 1.0 (eg, at least 1.1).

實例REF-1及EX-1。 Examples REF-1 and EX-1.

含水凝膠之尺寸準確之以3D方式形成的聚四氟乙烯(PTFE)係受關注的,因為其等可經進一步處理(乾燥、脫除黏合劑、及燒結)以得到具有相較於以傳統方式處理/加工之PTFE更複雜且精細的特徵之緻密PTFE結構。通常,該等方法使用結合形成技術(包括立體微影(SLA)型3D列印)之低黏度水性聚合物乳化液/黏合劑溶液,以產生受控結構(3D設計)水凝膠。 The precise size of the aqueous gel and the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) formed in 3D are of concern because they can be further processed (dried, debonded, and sintered) to obtain The PTFE processed/processed by this method has a more complex and fine-featured dense PTFE structure. Generally, these methods use low viscosity aqueous polymer emulsion/binder solutions combined with formation techniques (including stereolithography (SLA) type 3D printing) to produce controlled structure (3D design) hydrogels.

用於SLA列印之一常見技術涉及已知為「反向槽(reverse vat)」者,其中(不同於標準槽)光固化輻射源的位置係低於含有一可列印液體之一槽。在大多數情況下,反向槽技術涉及一系列的離散層形成。在此情況下,存在一層照明步驟及一平移步驟。平移步驟涉及將建構表面及未完成部件移動至對應於層厚度之一淨向上位置。照明及平移交替直到完成列印步驟為止。 One common technique used for SLA printing involves what is known as a "reverse vat", where (other than a standard vat) the position of the light curing radiation source is lower than a vat containing a printable liquid. In most cases, the reverse groove technique involves a series of discrete layer formations. In this case, there is a layer of lighting steps and a translation step. The translation step involves moving the construction surface and the unfinished part to a net upward position corresponding to the layer thickness. Illumination and panning alternate until the printing step is completed.

用於離散層型列印之反向槽技術的一缺點在於該方法涉及固化緊靠一透明窗之一黏合劑。此指在創建下一層之前,各固化層必須從窗表面釋離。低表面能材料(諸如氟塑膠膜)經常在此類窗構造中形成一離型表面,提供接合至光固化黏合劑的較低傾向。然而,即使僅由於藉由在列印期間之部件的向上移動所建立的初始抽吸,仍 存在某一傾向於分開一部件中之列印層的力,該力係在一部件於平移階段期間經升高遠離槽的下部窗時發生。 One disadvantage of the reverse groove technique for discrete layer printing is that the method involves curing one of the adhesives next to a transparent window. This means that before creating the next layer, each cured layer must be released from the window surface. Low surface energy materials, such as fluoroplastic films, often form a release surface in such window constructions, providing a lower tendency to bond to photocurable adhesives. However, even though only due to the initial suction created by the upward movement of the component during printing, there is still a force that tends to separate the printing layer in a component, which force is during the translation phase of a component Occurs when raised away from the lower window of the slot.

一第二缺點在於各層的下部部分最緊密靠近輻射源,且因此最不可能具有用於進一步交聯之活性位點。由於與先前層之此重度固化表面接觸之後續層的頂部表面最遠離輻射源,在層之間形成交聯鍵結並不有利。同樣地,由於離散層經固化,層之間的橋接不太可能導致潛在的劈裂面(cleavage plane)。 A second disadvantage is that the lower part of each layer is closest to the radiation source, and therefore least likely to have active sites for further cross-linking. Since the top surface of the subsequent layer in contact with this heavily cured surface of the previous layer is farthest from the radiation source, it is not advantageous to form a cross-linked bond between the layers. Likewise, as the discrete layers are cured, bridging between the layers is unlikely to cause a potential cleavage plane.

接著使所得之膠體經受後續步驟,包括乾燥、(經由燃毀)脫除黏合劑、及燒結。所有此等步驟可涉及體積變化,其導致可能進一步減弱層間內聚力的應力。為此,增加的層間黏著性係有用的。 The resulting colloid is then subjected to subsequent steps, including drying, removing the binder (by burning), and sintering. All these steps may involve volume changes, which lead to stresses that may further weaken the cohesion between the layers. For this reason, increased interlayer adhesion is useful.

含有聚四氟乙烯(PTFE)分散體之一可3D列印的組成物係製備如下。首先,將秤重80克經改質的PTFE分散體加入一第一瓶中,隨後藉由一實驗室滾瓶機攪動。將分開秤重之第一丙烯基單體(7g的SR 415,來自Sartomer)及第二丙烯基單體(7g的SR 344,來自Sartomer)加入一第二瓶中並混合。隨後,將0.288g的光起始劑(OMNIRAD TPO-L)、0.115g的抑制劑(來自Sigma Aldrich的BHT)、及0.058g的光學增亮劑(MAYZO OB-M1)加至該第二瓶中,並將內容物在實驗室滾瓶機上持續攪動至少30分鐘。最後,加入20g的水並在實驗室滾瓶機上進一步混合以形成黏合劑混合物。一經完全混合,便將黏合劑混合物緩慢地加至分散體,且將所得之可3D列印的組成物在實驗室滾瓶機上進一步攪動達整個使用前的時間。 A 3D printable composition system containing one of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) dispersions is prepared as follows. First, a modified PTFE dispersion weighing 80 grams was added to a first bottle, which was then stirred by a laboratory bottle roller. Separately weighed the first propylene-based monomer (7 g of SR 415 from Sartomer) and the second propylene-based monomer (7 g of SR 344 from Sartomer) were added to a second bottle and mixed. Subsequently, 0.288g of photoinitiator (OMNIRAD TPO-L), 0.115g of inhibitor (BHT from Sigma Aldrich), and 0.058g of optical brightener (MAYZO OB-M1) were added to the second bottle , And continue to agitate the contents on the laboratory roller machine for at least 30 minutes. Finally, 20g of water was added and further mixed on a laboratory roller bottler to form a binder mixture. Once completely mixed, the binder mixture was slowly added to the dispersion, and the resulting 3D-printable composition was further stirred on the laboratory roller bottler for the entire time before use.

部件設計係40mm乘20mm之一片材。以下文之表3中所示的條件使用RAPIDSHAPE HA40 SLA型印表機(Rapidshape GmbH,Heimsheim,Germany)來逐層列印樣本達1.5mm之厚度。物體係一實心片材,藉由完全固化層劃界在頂部及底部上,其中各內部層相同且由環繞一實心矩形內部的一邊界組成。 The part design is a sheet of 40mm by 20mm. The conditions shown in Table 3 below use a RAPIDSHAPE HA40 SLA printer (Rapidshape GmbH, Heimsheim, Germany) to print samples layer by layer to a thickness of 1.5 mm. The object system is a solid sheet, delimited on the top and bottom by a fully cured layer, where each inner layer is the same and consists of a boundary surrounding the inside of a solid rectangle.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0024-8
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0024-8

藉由在各步驟中固化各層之整體來製備參考實例REF-1。意即,當列印一個別層時,照射所有立體像素(即邊界立體像素及全部的封閉立體像素兩者)以固化樹脂,形成水凝膠。 Reference Example REF-1 was prepared by curing the whole of each layer in each step. That is to say, when printing a separate layer, all the three-dimensional pixels (that is, both the boundary three-dimensional pixels and all the closed three-dimensional pixels) are irradiated to cure the resin and form a hydrogel.

實例EX-1係使用本揭露之方法製備。頂部層及底部層係完全固化,因為其等僅由形成物體之頂部表面及底部表面的邊界單元組成。當形成內部層時,照射所有邊界立體像素以固化樹脂。將封閉立體像素分成1mm乘1mm單元的一陣列。將此等內部層中之封閉立體像素以一棋盤圖案來照射。在交替層中交替經選擇用於照射的單 元,使得各單元在交替步驟中經照射。由於曝露能量經選擇以確保至少兩層的一固化深度(即,至少100微米),所有封閉立體像素均曝露於足夠能量以固化樹脂並形成水凝膠。 Example EX-1 was prepared using the method of the present disclosure. The top layer and the bottom layer are fully cured because they etc. consist only of boundary cells forming the top and bottom surfaces of the object. When the inner layer is formed, all boundary stereo pixels are irradiated to cure the resin. The closed stereo pixels are divided into an array of 1mm by 1mm cells. The closed stereo pixels in these internal layers are illuminated with a checkerboard pattern. The units selected for irradiation are alternated in alternating layers so that the units are illuminated in alternating steps. Since the exposure energy is selected to ensure a curing depth of at least two layers (ie, at least 100 microns), all closed stereo pixels are exposed to sufficient energy to cure the resin and form a hydrogel.

在各列印之後,將水凝膠樣本在去離子水中潤洗,以輕加壓氮氣流吹除殘留的表面液體,並使該等樣本在紫外光下後固化30秒(DYMAX光固化系統型號2000 Flood,其具有400瓦EC電源供應器)。此等樣本接著係藉由將經列印的水凝膠在兩次連續浸泡中浸沒於200酒精度乙醇中各最少一天來使用乙醇進行溶劑交換。藉由將經溶劑交換的水凝膠從第二乙醇浴轉移至金屬載體中來執行超臨界CO2萃取之製備。為了最小化乙醇的蒸發乾燥,在轉移期間週期性使用乙醇潤濕樣本。在裝載載體時,將其等置於一萃取室中。 After each printing, the hydrogel samples were rinsed in deionized water, and the residual surface liquid was blown off with a lightly pressurized nitrogen flow, and the samples were post-cured under ultraviolet light for 30 seconds (DYMAX light curing system model 2000 Flood, which has a 400-watt EC power supply). These samples were then solvent exchanged with ethanol by immersing the printed hydrogel in two consecutive soaks in 200 alcohol ethanol for a minimum of one day each. The preparation of supercritical CO2 extraction is performed by transferring the solvent-exchanged hydrogel from the second ethanol bath to the metal support. To minimize the evaporative drying of ethanol, the samples were periodically wetted with ethanol during the transfer. When loading the carrier, place it in an extraction chamber.

超臨界萃取係使用10公升實驗室規模超臨界流體萃取器單元來執行,該單元係由Thar Process,Inc.,Pittsburgh,PA,USA所設計並自其取得。將基於PTFE的膠體安裝在一不鏽鋼架中。在將萃取器容器封蓋密封就位之後,藉由冷卻活塞泵(設定點:-8.0℃)將液體二氧化碳泵送通過一熱交換器,以將CO2加熱至50℃並進入10-L萃取器容器中,直到達到13.3MPa的一內部壓力為止。在這些條件下,二氧化碳係超臨界的。一旦滿足13.3MPa及50℃的萃取器操作條件,一經加熱的針閥便調控萃取器容器內的壓力。CO2及溶解的乙醇往下游方向流入維持於室溫及小於5.5Mpa之壓力的一5-L旋風分離器容器中,其中經萃取的乙醇及氣相CO2在整個萃取循環期間經分離及收集。從達成操作條件之時起,將超臨界二氧化碳(supercritical carbon dioxide,scCO2)連續泵送通過10-L萃取器容器達3個小時。在三小時萃取循環之後,在一小時內將萃取器容器排氣至旋風分離器中,在50℃下從13.3MPa至大氣壓力,之後開啟封蓋並移除含有乾燥氣凝膠的不鏽鋼架。 The supercritical extraction system was performed using a 10-liter laboratory scale supercritical fluid extractor unit, which was designed and obtained from Thar Process, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA, USA. The PTFE-based colloid is installed in a stainless steel frame. After sealing the lid of the extractor vessel in place, the liquid carbon dioxide was pumped through a heat exchanger by a cooling piston pump (setpoint: -8.0°C) to heat CO2 to 50°C and enter the 10-L extractor In the container, until an internal pressure of 13.3 MPa is reached. Under these conditions, carbon dioxide is supercritical. Once the operating conditions of the extractor at 13.3 MPa and 50°C are met, the pressure in the extractor vessel is adjusted as soon as the heated needle valve. CO2 and dissolved ethanol flow downstream into a 5-L cyclone vessel maintained at room temperature and a pressure of less than 5.5 MPa, where the extracted ethanol and gas-phase CO2 are separated and collected during the entire extraction cycle. From the time the operating conditions are reached, supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) is continuously pumped through the 10-L extractor vessel for 3 hours. After the three-hour extraction cycle, the extractor vessel was vented to the cyclone within one hour, from 13.3 MPa to atmospheric pressure at 50°C, after which the cover was opened and the stainless steel rack containing the dried aerogel was removed.

經乾燥的氣凝膠放置在鋁鍋中的一層陶瓷(La Zr Al氧化物)珠粒上以用於在Despatch Industries型號RAF 1-42-2E之可程式化空氣循環烘箱中進行燃毀及燒結,該烘箱係根據下列程式予以程式化:

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0026-9
在步驟9之後,開啟烘箱並允許樣本冷卻至室溫。 The dried aerogel is placed on a layer of ceramic (La Zr Al oxide) beads in an aluminum pan for burning and sintering in a programmable air circulation oven of Despatch Industries model RAF 1-42-2E , The oven is programmed according to the following program:
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0026-9
After step 9, turn on the oven and allow the sample to cool to room temperature.

根據ASTM D1708製備及測試拉伸樣品。測試係以每分鐘12.7mm之一延伸率實施。記錄各樣本之斷裂拉伸壓力及斷裂伸長率,且其平均及標準偏差係報告如下。 Tensile samples were prepared and tested according to ASTM D1708. The test was conducted at an elongation rate of 12.7 mm per minute. Record the tensile stress at break and elongation at break of each sample, and report the average and standard deviation as follows.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0026-11
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0026-11
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0027-12
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0027-12

實例REF-2及EX-2至EX-16。 Examples REF-2 and EX-2 to EX-16.

製備一可3D列印、可UV固化之丙烯酸酯組成物。該組成物含有45wt.%之胺甲酸酯彈性體(EXOTHANE 10,可購自Esstech,Inc.)、26wt.%之2-苯氧基乙基甲基丙烯酸酯、18wt.%之甲基丙烯酸2-乙基己酯、及11wt.%之甲基丙烯酸異莰酯,以產生100重量份的樹脂。組成物進一步包括每100份樹脂(per 100 parts resin,phr)佔0.5份之光起始劑(TPO,可購自IGM Resins USA Inc.)、0.025phr之抑制劑(BHT,(2,6-二(三級丁)-4-甲苯酚),產品代碼#34750,可購自Sigma-Aldrich,St Louis,MO,USA)、及0.025phr之萘醯亞胺丙烯酸酯。 Preparation of a 3D printing, UV-curable acrylate composition. The composition contains 45 wt.% urethane elastomer (EXOTHANE 10, available from Esstech, Inc.), 26 wt.% 2-phenoxyethyl methacrylate, 18 wt.% methacrylic acid 2-ethylhexyl ester, and 11 wt.% of isobornyl methacrylate to produce 100 parts by weight of resin. The composition further includes 0.5 parts of photoinitiator (TPO, available from IGM Resins USA Inc.) and 0.025 phr of inhibitor (BHT, (2,6- Di(tertiary butyl)-4-cresol), product code #34750, available from Sigma-Aldrich, St Louis, MO, USA), and 0.025 phr of naphthalimide acrylate.

狗骨頭樣本係根據ASTM D-638類型V之尺寸所設計。該設計係在3D電腦輔助製圖程式(來自Dessault Systemes SOLIDWORKS Corp.)中建模並轉換成.STL格式以用於匯入軟體程式中以將實體模型轉換成個別層(來自Source Graphics之NETFABB軟體)。狗骨頭樣本經設計使得層係在其X-Y平面垂直於狗骨頭樣本之長度方向的情況下堆疊。 Dog bone samples are designed according to ASTM D-638 Type V dimensions. The design is modeled in a 3D computer-aided drafting program (from Dessault Systemes SOLIDWORKS Corp.) and converted into .STL format for import into the software program to convert the solid model into individual layers (NETFABB software from Source Graphics) . The dog bone samples are designed so that the layers are stacked with their X-Y plane perpendicular to the length direction of the dog bone samples.

製備含有用於各層之一對鏈接檔案的一.TGZ檔案。一個檔案係一.PNG影像,其界定用於層之二維影像遮罩。第二個檔案係一.XML檔案,其界定用於層之對應參數集。此等檔案係以一腳本語言(Python Software Foundation)訂製。參數訂製係透過個別參數之正規 表示式比對及取代來進行處理。經修改之參數的最終值係列於表5中。 Prepare a .TGZ file containing one link file for each layer pair. One file is a .PNG image, which defines a two-dimensional image mask for the layer. The second file is an .XML file, which defines the corresponding parameter set for the layer. These files are customized with a scripting language (Python Software Foundation). Parameter customization is processed through the comparison and substitution of the regular expressions of individual parameters. The final values of the modified parameters are listed in Table 5.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0028-13
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0028-13

製備十六個列印描述檔(print profile),包括一個經完全固化的對照組REF-2。針對各樣本,將逐層影像載入記憶體中以產生建構之一三維矩陣。基於26連接像素之網路來識別各層中之邊界立體像素。意即,封閉立體像素係26連接(即,一封閉立體像素係面、邊緣、與隅角連接至相鄰的經填充立體像素),而邊界立體像素係小於26連接(即,具有相鄰於其面、邊緣、或隅角之任一者之一開放立體像素的任何立體像素經識別為一邊界立體像素)。此分析係藉由確認在所建構的層中以及居前層與接續層中之立體像素的狀態來實施。 Sixteen print profiles were prepared, including a fully cured control group REF-2. For each sample, the layer-by-layer images are loaded into memory to generate a three-dimensional matrix of construction. Based on a network of 26 connected pixels, the boundary stereo pixels in each layer are identified. This means that closed voxels are connected by 26 (ie, a closed voxel is connected to the face, edge, and corner to adjacent filled voxels), and the boundary voxels are less than 26 connected (that is, with adjacent to (Any voxel whose open voxel is one of its face, edge, or corner is identified as a boundary voxel). This analysis is performed by confirming the state of the voxels in the constructed layer and in the preceding layer and the successive layers.

當處理一層時,所有邊界立體像素均經照射以固化樹脂。在REF-2的情況下,亦照射所有封閉立體像素以固化樹脂。針對實例EX-2至EX-16之各者,施加一圖案至封閉像素,如表6中所彙總者。 When processing a layer, all boundary stereo pixels are irradiated to cure the resin. In the case of REF-2, all closed stereo pixels are also irradiated to cure the resin. For each of Examples EX-2 to EX-16, a pattern was applied to the closed pixels, as summarized in Table 6.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0029-15
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0029-15

在表6中,單元大小係指在建立圖案時分組至一單元中且經共同處理之立體像素的大小。例如,3×3的單元大小意指各單元係形成一3×3陣列之封閉立體像素的一群組。(例如,EX-4。)RUC係經選擇以維持未固化的單元對封閉單元之總數的比率。「圖案(pattern)」判定如何使用RUC值。在50%棋盤式圖案中,交替單元經選擇以用於照射,形成固化封閉單元及未固化封閉單元之一二維棋盤陣列。EX-7具有交替單元,其中各單元係一個別封閉立體像素,而EX-8具有交替單元,其中各單元係封閉立體像素之一3×3陣列。 In Table 6, the cell size refers to the size of the stereo pixels grouped into a cell and processed together when creating the pattern. For example, a 3×3 cell size means that each cell forms a group of closed stereo pixels in a 3×3 array. (For example, EX-4.) RUC is selected to maintain the ratio of uncured units to the total number of closed units. "Pattern" determines how to use the RUC value. In a 50% checkerboard pattern, alternating cells are selected for irradiation to form a two-dimensional checkerboard array of cured and uncured closed cells. EX-7 has alternating cells, where each cell is a closed stereo pixel, while EX-8 has alternating cells, where each cell is a 3×3 array of closed stereo pixels.

在隨機圖案中,演算法將RUC值用作施加至各單元的一概率。因此,對50%RUC隨機圖案(EX-2至EX-10)而言,各單元經選擇以維持未固化的概率係50%。因此,再使兩個固化或未固化 封閉單元彼此比鄰係可能的,但未固化單元的平均數目應維持跨一整個層大約50%。對40%RUC隨機圖案(EX-11及EX-12)而言,各單元經選擇以維持未固化的概率係40%。 In random patterns, the algorithm uses the RUC value as a probability applied to each cell. Therefore, for a 50% RUC random pattern (EX-2 to EX-10), the probability that each unit is selected to remain uncured is 50%. Therefore, it is possible to make the two cured or uncured closed cells closer to each other, but the average number of uncured cells should be maintained at approximately 50% across an entire layer. For a 40% RUC random pattern (EX-11 and EX-12), the probability that each unit is selected to remain uncured is 40%.

在一些實施例中,圖案係經選擇以重複。在表6中,「交替(alternating)」與棋盤式圖案(EX-7及EX-8)相關聯。此意指交替相同圖案,使得每一偶數層具有相同的棋盤式圖案,且每一奇數層具有相同的互補棋盤式圖案。用語「2x交替(2x alternating)」意指每一對相鄰的層具有導致一嵌套圖案的互補圖案。然而,此等圖案隨著物體的Z方向改變。因此,一層具有一第一隨機圖案,且其相鄰層具有該圖案之反向圖案。然而,下一層具有一新的隨機選擇圖案,其相鄰層具有該圖案之反向圖案。結果,若一層之RUC係50%,則其相鄰層的RUC係其反數,該相鄰層亦具有50%的RUC(EX-1至EX-5)。若一層之RUC係40%,則其相鄰層的RUC係其反數,該相鄰層具有60%的RUC(EX-13及EX-14)。 In some embodiments, the pattern is selected to repeat. In Table 6, "alternating" is associated with checkerboard patterns (EX-7 and EX-8). This means alternating the same pattern so that each even layer has the same checkerboard pattern and each odd layer has the same complementary checkerboard pattern. The term "2x alternating" means that each pair of adjacent layers has a complementary pattern that results in a nested pattern. However, these patterns change with the Z direction of the object. Therefore, one layer has a first random pattern, and its adjacent layer has a reverse pattern of the pattern. However, the next layer has a new randomly selected pattern, and its adjacent layer has a reverse pattern of that pattern. As a result, if the RUC of one layer is 50%, the RUC of the adjacent layer is the inverse of that, and the adjacent layer also has 50% RUC (EX-1 to EX-5). If the RUC of one layer is 40%, the RUC of the adjacent layer is the inverse of that, and the adjacent layer has 60% RUC (EX-13 and EX-14).

實例EX-15及EX-16係基於一圖案,該圖案經設計以提供跨相鄰層之較大的未固化封閉單元長度。如圖9所示,基底圖案係5×5單元1190,其具有十三個未固化封閉立體像素1194及十二個經固化封閉立體像素1193,得出之RUC係52%。單元1190係沿著一軸置於一列中,且在相同平面內於相鄰列中偏移一個立體像素。每一層均重複此圖案,但是整個圖案係在各層之間向下偏移一行立體像素(EX-15)或在各層之間向下偏移兩行立體像素(EX-16)。 Examples EX-15 and EX-16 are based on a pattern designed to provide a larger uncured closed cell length across adjacent layers. As shown in FIG. 9, line base pattern 5 × 5 unit 1190, having thirteen perspective uncured closed closed twelve pixels 1194 and cured voxel 1193, RUC-based stars of 52%. Unit 1190 is placed in a column along an axis, and is offset by a stereo pixel in an adjacent column in the same plane. This pattern is repeated for each layer, but the entire pattern is shifted downward by one row of voxels (EX-15) between layers or by two rows of voxels (EX-16) between layers.

藉由列印可UV固化之丙烯酸酯組成物來針對各圖案製備十個樣本,用以形成狗骨頭狀。使用異丙醇洗滌所列印的樣本。經洗滌的樣本係在UV室中後固化三小時,並在真空烘箱中以100℃乾燥18小時。 Ten samples were prepared for each pattern by printing a UV-curable acrylate composition to form a dog bone shape. Wash the printed samples with isopropyl alcohol. The washed samples were post-cured in a UV chamber for three hours and dried in a vacuum oven at 100°C for 18 hours.

根據ATSM測試方法D638,使用具有5kN荷重元之INSIGHTS MTS在10mm/分鐘之速率下測量其斷裂拉伸強度、模數、及斷裂伸長率。該等狗骨頭樣本經製備使得層係在其X-Y平面垂直於狗骨頭樣本之長度方向的情況下堆疊。結果,拉伸測試中所施加的負載係垂直於層,即,平行於層之厚度,使得負載必須跨相鄰層傳遞。使用數位影像相關來測量樣本中的應變及應變分布。根據ASTM D638-10判定其拉伸強度、模數、及斷裂伸長率。進行十次重複測試,並將平均值及標準偏差彙總在表7、表8、及表9中。 According to ATSM test method D638, INSIGHTS MTS with a load cell of 5 kN was used to measure its tensile strength at break, modulus, and elongation at break at a rate of 10 mm/min. The dog bone samples were prepared so that the layers were stacked with their X-Y plane perpendicular to the length direction of the dog bone samples. As a result, the load applied in the tensile test is perpendicular to the layer, that is, parallel to the thickness of the layer, so that the load must be transferred across adjacent layers. Use digital image correlation to measure strain and strain distribution in a sample. The tensile strength, modulus, and elongation at break were determined according to ASTM D638-10. The test was repeated ten times, and the average value and standard deviation were summarized in Table 7, Table 8, and Table 9.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0031-17
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0031-17

經選擇性固化的拉伸強度對於對照樣本(REF-2)之拉伸強度的比率係顯示於表8中。所有選擇性固化樣本之失效拉伸強度均高於對照樣本。此指示其層間強度較大。 The ratio of the tensile strength after selective curing to the tensile strength of the control sample (REF-2) is shown in Table 8. The tensile strength at failure of all the selectively cured samples is higher than that of the control samples. This indicates that the interlayer strength is greater.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0032-18
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0032-18

如表9中所示,與對照組相比,所有選擇性固化樣本的模數亦較高。通常,模數與斷裂伸長率之間存有權衡。結果,相較於由標準的完全固化層所製備之樣本,透過選擇性固化可產生具有較高或較低模數及斷裂伸長率的樣本,同時保留改善斷裂拉伸強度的益處。 As shown in Table 9, the modulus of all the selectively cured samples is also higher compared to the control group. Generally, there is a trade-off between modulus and elongation at break. As a result, selective curing can produce samples with higher or lower modulus and elongation at break compared to samples prepared from standard fully cured layers, while retaining the benefits of improved tensile strength at break.

Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0033-19
Figure 108108231-A0202-12-0033-19

本發明中的各種修改與變更對於所屬技術領域中具有通常知識者將為顯而易見且不悖離本發明之範疇。 Various modifications and changes in the present invention will be obvious to those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field, and do not depart from the scope of the present invention.

400‧‧‧反向立體微影設備/設備 400‧‧‧Reverse stereolithography equipment/equipment

401‧‧‧層 401‧‧‧ storey

401a‧‧‧立體像素 401a‧‧‧stereo pixels

402‧‧‧內部層/層 402‧‧‧Inner layer/layer

402a‧‧‧立體像素 402a‧‧‧stereo pixels

403‧‧‧內部層 403‧‧‧Inner layer

403a‧‧‧立體像素 403a‧‧‧stereo pixels

404‧‧‧層 404‧‧‧ storey

404a‧‧‧立體像素 404a‧‧‧stereo pixels

405‧‧‧內部層 405‧‧‧Inner layer

422‧‧‧光源 422‧‧‧Light source

424‧‧‧光控制器 424‧‧‧Light controller

427‧‧‧光 427‧‧‧ light

430‧‧‧窗 430‧‧‧window

440‧‧‧物體 440‧‧‧Object

D‧‧‧固化深度 D‧‧‧Curing depth

T‧‧‧厚度 T‧‧‧thickness

Z‧‧‧維度/方向 Z‧‧‧Dimension/Direction

Claims (24)

一種從包含一可聚合材料之一組成物形成一三維物體之逐層方法,其中該三維物體包含內部層,該等內部層包含一立體像素陣列,該陣列包含邊界立體像素,其中該等邊界立體像素包含小於六連接之各立體像素,以及對應於由該等邊界立體像素所劃界之該三維物體之一截面積的封閉立體像素,其中該等封閉立體像素包含經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素與經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素,且其中一層中之各立體像素具有沿著該層之平面中的正交軸所測量出之一寬度W及長度L,且各層具有垂直於該層所測量出之一厚度T,該方法包含一選擇性固化步驟,該步驟包含:(i)在一建構區域中提供該組成物之一未固化層;(ii)藉由下列來創建一選擇性固化層a.在該等邊界立體像素中固化該可聚合材料;及b.在該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素中固化該可聚合材料,其中該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素包含小於全部的該等封閉立體像素;及(iii)平移該選擇性固化層以重新創建該建構區域;其中固化該可聚合材料包含照射該建構區域中之該組成物達一固化深度D,其中D大於或等於T。 A layer-by-layer method for forming a three-dimensional object from a composition including a polymerizable material, wherein the three-dimensional object includes internal layers, the internal layers include a stereo pixel array, and the array includes boundary stereo pixels, wherein the boundary stereo The pixels include stereo pixels less than six connected, and closed stereo pixels corresponding to a cross-sectional area of the three-dimensional object delimited by the boundary stereo pixels, wherein the closed stereo pixels include closed stereo selected for curing Pixels and closed stereo pixels selected to maintain uncured, and each stereo pixel in one layer has a width W and length L measured along an orthogonal axis in the plane of the layer, and each layer has a perpendicular to the A thickness T measured by the layer. The method includes a selective curing step. The step includes: (i) providing an uncured layer of the composition in a construction area; (ii) creating a selection by Curable layer a. curing the polymerizable material in the boundary stereo pixels; and b. curing the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixels selected for curing, wherein the closed for the curing is selected The stereo pixels include less than all of the closed stereo pixels; and (iii) the selective curing layer is translated to recreate the construction area; wherein curing the polymerizable material includes irradiating the composition in the construction area to a curing depth D , Where D is greater than or equal to T. 如請求項1之方法,其進一步包含重複該選擇性固化步驟N次以形成N個連續的選擇性固化層,其中D大至足以固化M個相鄰層,且其中N至少係2且不大於M。 The method of claim 1, further comprising repeating the selective curing step N times to form N consecutive selective curing layers, wherein D is large enough to cure M adjacent layers, and wherein N is at least 2 and not greater than M. 如請求項2之方法,其中該N個選擇性固化層之各者之該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素係經識別,使得共同地,該等經選擇用於固化的封閉立體像素子集提供一嵌套(nesting)圖案。 The method of claim 2, wherein the closed voxels selected for curing of each of the N selective curing layers are identified such that, in common, the closed voxel pixels selected for curing The set provides a nesting pattern. 如請求項2之方法,其進一步包含在各組N個選擇性固化步驟之後執行一完全固化步驟,該完全固化步驟包含:(iv)在該建構區域中提供該組成物之一未固化層;(v)藉由下列創建一完全固化層c.在該等邊界立體像素中固化該可聚合材料;及d.在所有該等封閉立體像素中固化該可聚合材料;及(vi)平移該完全固化層以創建一新建構區域;其中N不大於M-1。 The method of claim 2, further comprising performing a complete curing step after each set of N selective curing steps, the complete curing step comprising: (iv) providing an uncured layer of the composition in the construction area; (v) create a fully cured layer by c. curing the polymerizable material in the boundary stereo pixels; and d. curing the polymerizable material in all the closed stereo pixels; and (vi) translating the complete The layer is cured to create a new construction area; where N is not greater than M-1. 如請求項2之方法,其中該等經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素除以該層中之封閉立體像素的總數之一比率(RUC)係大於或等於0.1且不大於0.9。 The method of claim 2, wherein the ratio of the closed voxels selected to maintain uncured divided by the total number of closed voxels in the layer (RUC) is greater than or equal to 0.1 and not greater than 0.9. 如請求項5之方法,其中RUC係大於或等於0.4且不大於0.6。 The method of claim 5, wherein RUC is greater than or equal to 0.4 and not greater than 0.6. 如請求項2之方法,其中M以及該等經選擇以維持未固化的封閉立體像素除以該層中之封閉立體像素的總數之一比率(RUC)係經選擇,使得基於封閉單元之總數,該三維物體中之未固化封閉單元的百分比P%不大於10%,其中P%=100*RUC MThe method of claim 2, wherein M and the ratio of the closed voxels selected to maintain uncured divided by the total number of closed voxels in the layer (RUC) is selected such that based on the total number of closed cells, The percentage P% of uncured closed cells in the three-dimensional object is not more than 10%, where P%=100*RUC M. 如請求項7之方法,其中P%不大於1%。 As in the method of claim 7, where P% is not greater than 1%. 如請求項1之方法,其中該等封閉立體像素係分組成包含複數個封閉立體像素的單元,且其中一單元中之該等封閉立體像素的各者係經選擇用於固化或經選擇以維持未固化。 The method of claim 1, wherein the closed voxels are grouped into units including a plurality of closed voxels, and each of the closed voxels in a unit is selected for curing or selected to maintain Not cured. 如請求項9之方法,其中各單元係一v乘v立體像素陣列,其中v係一整數。 The method of claim 9, wherein each unit is a v by v stereo pixel array, where v is an integer. 如請求項10之方法,其中v不大於10。 As in the method of claim 10, where v is not greater than 10. 如請求項1之方法,其中該等邊界立體像素包含小於十八連接之各立體像素。 The method of claim 1, wherein the boundary stereo pixels include less than eighteen connected stereo pixels. 如請求項12之方法,其中該等邊界立體像素包含小於二十六連接之 各立體像素。 The method of claim 12, wherein the boundary stereo pixels include less than twenty-six connected stereo pixels. 如請求項1至13中任一項之方法,其中該可聚合材料包含丙烯酸酯、甲基丙烯酸酯、或其組合。 The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the polymerizable material comprises acrylate, methacrylate, or a combination thereof. 如請求項1至13中任一項之方法,其中該組成物包含聚四氟乙烯。 The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the composition comprises polytetrafluoroethylene. 如請求項1至13中任一項之方法,其中該組成物包含溶劑,且該三維物體包含膠體。 The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the composition includes a solvent, and the three-dimensional object includes a colloid. 如請求項1至13中任一項之方法,其進一步包含後固化該三維物體。 The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising post-curing the three-dimensional object. 一種從包含一可聚合材料之一組成物形成一三維物體之方法,其中該三維物體包含複數個內部層,其中各內部層包含一立體像素陣列,該陣列包含對應於該物體之界線的邊界立體像素及對應於由該等邊界立體像素所劃界之該三維物體之一截面積的封閉立體像素,該方法包含:針對各內部層將該組成物引入位於一建構平台與一窗之間的一建構區域;執行一固化步驟,其包含a.針對該層之各邊界立體像素,照射該組成物使得該邊界立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化;b.針對該層之各封閉立體像素,進行下列之任一者i.照射該組成物,使得該封閉立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化,或者ii.不照射該組成物,使得該封閉立體像素中之該可聚合材料實質上未固化;及將該建構平台及該層平移遠離該窗以創建一新建構區域,其中針對至少一內部層,至少一封閉立體像素中之該組成物在將該建構平台及該層平移遠離該窗之前未經固化。 A method for forming a three-dimensional object from a composition including a polymerizable material, wherein the three-dimensional object includes a plurality of inner layers, wherein each inner layer includes a three-dimensional pixel array, and the array includes a boundary three-dimensional object corresponding to a boundary of the object Pixels and closed stereo pixels corresponding to a cross-sectional area of the three-dimensional object demarcated by the boundary stereo pixels, the method includes: introducing the composition between a construction platform and a window for each internal layer Build a region; perform a curing step, which includes a. for each boundary stereo pixel of the layer, irradiating the composition to cure the polymerizable material in the boundary stereo pixel; b. for each closed stereo pixel of the layer Any one of the following i. irradiate the composition so that the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixel is cured, or ii. not irradiate the composition so that the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixel is substantially uncured; And translating the construction platform and the layer away from the window to create a new construction area, wherein for at least one inner layer, the composition in at least one closed voxel has not been translated from the construction platform and the layer away from the window After curing. 如請求項18之方法,其中該三維物體進一步包含一第一外部層及一第二外部層,其中各外部層包含一立體像素陣列,該陣列包含對應於該物體之界線的邊界立體像素及對應於由該等邊界立體像素所劃界之該三維物體之一截面積的封閉立體像素,該方法包含:針對該第一外部層,在針對該複數個內部層之一第一內部層執行該固化步驟之前,將該組成物引入至一建構區域並執行一固化步驟,該固化步驟包含:a.針對該第一外部層之各邊界立體像素,照射該組成物使得該邊界立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化;b.針對該第一外部層之各封閉立體像素,照射該組成物使得該封閉立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化;及針對該第二外部層,在針對該複數個內部層之一最後內部層執行該固化步驟之後,將該組成物引入至一建構區域並執行一固化步驟,該固化步驟包含:c.針對該第二外部層之各邊界立體像素,照射該組成物使得該邊界立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化;及d.針對該第二外部層之各封閉立體像素,照射該組成物使得該封閉立體像素中之該可聚合材料固化。 The method of claim 18, wherein the three-dimensional object further includes a first outer layer and a second outer layer, wherein each outer layer includes a stereo pixel array, the array includes boundary stereo pixels corresponding to the boundary of the object and corresponding In a closed stereo pixel of a cross-sectional area of the three-dimensional object delimited by the boundary stereo pixels, the method includes: for the first outer layer, performing the curing on the first inner layer for one of the plurality of inner layers Before the step, the composition is introduced into a construction area and a curing step is performed. The curing step includes: a. For each boundary stereo pixel of the first outer layer, the composition is irradiated so that the Polymerized material curing; b. for each closed stereo pixel of the first outer layer, irradiating the composition to cure the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixel; and for the second outer layer, for the plurality of inner layers After performing the curing step in one of the last inner layers, the composition is introduced into a construction area and a curing step is performed. The curing step includes: c. For each boundary stereo pixel of the second outer layer, irradiating the composition such that Curing the polymerizable material in the boundary stereo pixel; and d. for each closed stereo pixel of the second outer layer, irradiating the composition to cure the polymerizable material in the closed stereo pixel. 一種三維物體,其由如請求項1至13、請求項18、或請求項19中任一項之方法製作。 A three-dimensional object produced by a method as in any one of request items 1 to 13, request item 18, or request item 19. 如請求項20之三維物體,其中該可聚合材料包含丙烯酸酯、甲基丙烯酸酯、或其組合。 The three-dimensional object of claim 20, wherein the polymerizable material comprises acrylate, methacrylate, or a combination thereof. 如請求項20之三維物體,其中該組成物包含聚四氟乙烯。 The three-dimensional object of claim 20, wherein the composition comprises polytetrafluoroethylene. 如請求項20之三維物體,其中該組成物包含溶劑,且該三維物體包含膠體。 The three-dimensional object of claim 20, wherein the composition includes a solvent, and the three-dimensional object includes a colloid. 如請求項20之三維物體,其中該三維物體經後固化。 The three-dimensional object according to claim 20, wherein the three-dimensional object is post-cured.
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