WO2013117185A1

WO2013117185A1 - Method and device for manufacturing a 3-dimensional object

Info

Publication number: WO2013117185A1
Application number: PCT/DE2013/100014
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bruno BAUMERS
Original assignee: Additech Gmbh
Priority date: 2012-02-10
Filing date: 2013-01-17
Publication date: 2013-08-15

Abstract

To provide a method for the rapid generative manufacture of 3-dimensional objects, in which layers of pourable or flowable material lying one on top of the other are successively applied to a carrier base and the layers are respectively solidified and bonded to one another by the action of electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation, it is proposed that, while material is being applied and solidified, further layers are applied and solidified at a slightly different time, wherein the appropriate number of layers to be created partially at the same time is determined by the length of the carrier base and the rate of solidification.

Description

Method and device for producing a 3-dimensional object The invention relates to a method for the generative production of a 3-dimensional object, in layers

successive layers of pourable or flowable material are applied successively to a support base by the

Material is applied by a material application device by linear movement along the support base on the support base or already deposited on these layers, and the layers in each case by the action of electromagnetic radiation or

Particle radiation solidified and bonded together, wherein on the support base or already applied to these layers of material for forming a first or a first further layer progressively applied in a linear direction from a start region to an end region. Furthermore, the invention relates to a

Device for the generative production of a 3-dimensional object, which consists of

superimposed, solidified and

interconnected layers of pourable or flowable material, wherein the

Device at least one support base as the order level for the object, at least one Dispenser for the material and at least one straight-line along the support base movable distribution device for the layered

Distributing the material has.

In the prior art, it is known to produce prototypes and components generatively in the form of 3-dimensional objects. To do this

Coating process or

Utilized devices that make objects produced in layers by means of data stored in a computer.

Such methods and devices are known, for example, from US 2001/0050448 AI. Furthermore, US Pat. No. 4,575,330 describes the use of a UV laser beam for

Solidifying the surface layer in a container with liquid, through

electromagnetic (UV) radiation curable plastic. To manufacture details in high resolution and with high precision and

In order to be able to solidify, the object is built up of many layers, each layer being built up individually and consecutively in a repetitive cycle. This cycle contains in all procedures, in which objects within containers with

unconsolidated or liquid material

be built, a sequence of three

Steps, namely the application of a flat layer of unconsolidated material, followed by irradiating all surfaces to be solidified by means of

electromagnetic radiation or

Particle radiation, followed finally by the vertical repositioning of the carrier layer.

For processes where the material is in

Powder form is applied in the progressive layers, is the production of

Support structures usually not

required because overhanging components are carried by the already deposited unconsolidated powder. Such devices use a steerable laser beam or particle beam to selectively melt the powder. Procedures and devices of this kind are described, for example, in WO-A-95/18715, WO-A-94/15771, WO-A-96/29192,

WO-A-92/08592, US 4,863,538 and US 5,647,931. For further prior art is still on the DE 44 16 901 A 1, the

DE 43 02 418 A1 and DE 102 35 427 A1. These known methods and devices enable the production of 3-dimensional bodies with high accuracy, even with thin walls, as well as the simultaneous production of several prototypes and components. Furthermore, the production of objects with projecting details is possible with and without the aid of support structures. The problem with the known methods and devices is that for the construction of

Objects compared to the alternative applicable methods such as injection molding and computer-controlled machining processes, a considerably greater amount of time is needed. It takes several hours to get a prototype or component size of normal size

manufacture. At least one day is necessary for the simultaneous production of several components.

From DE 10 235 434 Al a method and a device for the generative production of objects is known, which should lead to a result in a shorter time. For this purpose, a support for the construction platform is rotated relative to a material application device and at the same time the construction platform is adjusted in the direction of the axis of rotation. Such a system causes the means of

Applied material applicator

Layers are structured differently over the respective order level, because the relative movement speed differences of areas which are arranged close to the axis of rotation, relative to areas which are radially outwardly, are considerable, so that as a result the layers thus produced

have different texture. Also, the wear is the Material application devices because of

Velocity differences unevenly, which can lead to quality losses.

Based on this prior art, the invention has the object, a

To provide a method or a device of the generic type, with or with a faster

Manufacturing 3-dimensional body can be achieved, with a more uniform

Layer construction and a uniform wear of applicators is ensured.

For procedural solution of this problem, the invention proposes that the application of the first or first further layer

following during the application of the first or first further layer of material to

Forming a second layer to be formed on the first layer or first further layer progressively in a linear direction from the start region to the end region

is applied.

This procedure becomes a

Multiplication of the per unit time

achieved finished layers. Accordingly, it is not applied as conventional, first a complete first layer on the support base or already on already on the support base layers and Subsequently, a further layer is applied to this already produced layer and so on, but it is carried out during the application of the first layer progressively applying a second layer and possibly the second layer following the application of further layers until all layers on the support base or on this located layers are applied. After a cycle in which at least two such layers are partially deposited and produced at the same time, starting again in the starting region, the application of further layers takes place, in turn in the same way a first

Layer and this following partly at the same time a second layer and so on is applied until all layers on the

Carrier base or on already on this

located layers are applied.

The fact that all layers are applied linearly, ensures that the movement speed when applying the material layers over the entire

Application width of each material layer is constant, so that each layer is a homogeneous

Texture has. Also, that's possible

Wear of application equipment for

Application of the material layers evenly over the application width. In particular, it is provided that during the application of the second layer or at least one further layer of the

Applying this layer following a further layer is applied in each case.

It is thus possible to apply at least two layers in almost the same time frame in which application of a single layer has hitherto been possible. In particular, by this procedure, the time to

Creation of the corresponding 3-dimensional object significantly shortened.

Although it is possible, the respective layers progressively partly progressing

At the same time, without these in each case being temporarily solidified, it is preferable to provide that, following the application of each layer, prior to the application of the next layer, a selective solidification of the

respective zone of the deposited material by electromagnetic radiation or

Particle radiation is made.

According to this proposal, a successive selective solidification of the corresponding zone is carried out successively following the application of each layer of the application zone, so that the second layer, which is applied following the first layer, no longer depends on one

unconsolidated layer is applied, but is applied to an already solidified material layer.

It is preferably possible to proceed in such a way that, in zones of the applied layers, material is quasi-simultaneously solidified by electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation. A preferred development is seen in that the solidification selectively from the starting area of the coating order

beginning to the end region is made, ie in the form of a linear wandering

Radiation front.

The linear application method and the parallel solidification ensure a uniform quality of the produced layers over the entire application width.

Under certain circumstances, it can preferably be provided that the layers are in constant

Layer thickness are applied.

The manner of application may be such that the material for forming the layers is applied in the starting area or next to the support base and distributed uniformly over the application level for application by linear movement of a coating medium. Here, the material for forming the

Layers in the starting area or next to the

Carrier base are applied in sufficient quantity, so that then by means of the corresponding

Distributors this material

evenly distributed over the order level. Alternatively and preferably, it is provided that the material from a reservoir directly progressing from the start area to the

End region for forming the corresponding

Material layers is discharged onto the support base or the layers thereon.

It can also be provided that the layers of material are compacted during application or after application and before solidification.

It is particularly preferred that a powder is applied as the material. For powdery material that is

inventive method especially

can be used advantageously.

In a manner known per se, provision can be made for the carrier base to be applied as a function of the material thickness

Material layers from a starting position in different working positions is lowered.

For example, the carrier base may be so

be set that the actual

Order level is always the same level, regardless of how much

Material layers are already applied. A further acceleration of the completion of the layers can be achieved by applying as a material powder which is preheated to a temperature lower than the temperature generated during the solidification by radiation, in particular lower than the sintering or

Melting temperature is.

It can be provided that the powder material is preheated by means of infrared radiation.

The invention further relates to a

superimposed, solidified and

interconnected layers of pourable or flowable material, wherein the device at least one support base as the order level for the object, a straight, so linear, along the support base

movable dispenser for the material and has at least one likewise rectilinear, along the support base movable distribution device for the layered distribution of the material.

The device according to the object solution is characterized in that at least two distribution devices are provided, by means of which on the order level partially

simultaneously superimposed

Material layers can be applied, wherein the distributing devices in such a direction of Au rectilinear in a row over the

Can be moved job level that first the lower layer and subsequent to this, the upper layer is applicable.

By this arrangement it is achieved that by means of at least two

Distributors on the order level partially overlapping at one time

Layers are applicable. The amount of time to produce a complete multilayer

Layer on the support base or on already applied layers is thus significantly reduced compared to the conventional design, with an excellent homogeneity of the applied due to the linear order

Layers is ensured.

Preferably, it is provided that the distribution devices as Abstreiteinrichtungen or rolling device with scraper blades or stripping rollers are formed.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the distribution devices in one of them each to be generated layer thickness

corresponding dimension relative to the support base are spaced. It can also be preferred that the support base is height adjustable.

Particularly preferably, it is provided that the distribution devices are coupled together and at the same time on the order level

are movable.

In addition, it is preferably provided that above the order level at least one

Radiation generator is provided, by means of which the deposited on the order level layer of material or the material layers can be solidified or are. It is also preferably provided that above the application level one or more

Radiation generator are provided by means of which selectively applied by a distributor layer is zonewise solidified before the distribution in

Order direction following distributor has reached the zone. An advantageous development is seen in that the dispenser for the material is a material storage container which is disposed during the dispensing of material near the support base or above the support base and which has in its bottom an outlet opening and a dosing device coupled therewith for the material.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the distribution devices each have a

Have material storage container, with the distribution device over the surface of the

Carrier base or on it

Material layer is movable, and so on

is formed so that it dispenses dosed over at least one outlet opening material in the direction of movement of the respective distribution device before this.

In addition, it is preferably provided that each

Distributor a

Material storage container having as

Transport package is coupled to the distribution device and its side walls define a narrowing the support base space, wherein at the discharge opening of this

Transport Packung guide plates are arranged or formed, which are arranged such that they are for compressing the

Material layer during delivery or after Make or form an output with the support base at an acute angle.

It may also preferably be provided that the distributing devices are designed as stripping devices in the form of rotatable rollers which can be moved over the deposited material layer, their rotational speed and / or

Movement direction is adjustable.

In addition, it is preferably provided that the

Support base is a vertically movable bottom of a body container, which is lowered according to the thickness of the material layers.

It can also be preferred that the lowest, the order level

nearest distributor

Guide means for this movement moderately following upper distributor, which in turn is located on the guide means

having supporting bearing means.

In addition, it can preferably be provided that the guide means form a lateral boundary for the applied material.

This avoids that the applied material can migrate laterally of the application area, since this material by the lateral boundary on a lateral

Drainage is prevented. To further increase the

Build speed for 3-dimensional

To achieve objects, it is provided that the distribution devices are arranged on a frame part, wherein the frame part

extending at least at its end regions transverse to the linear application direction

holds bar-like distribution devices, which are spaced from each other in the application direction, the frame part between his

End areas around one also across the

Application direction aligned pivot axis is limited pivotally supported, and the

Frame part by means of a first drive means from a start position in which all

Distribution facilities in addition to the spatial

Carrier base are arranged in one

Intermediate position, in which all

Distributors over the length of

Carrier base are linearly moved and are positioned beyond the support base, and are movable back to the start position, wherein in the start position, the frontmost in the application direction distributor one of a first

Layer thickness corresponding vertical distance from the plane, through the

Support base or the already deposited on the support base layers is clamped, and the rearmost in the order direction

Distributor at least one further layer thickness corresponding distance thereof, and wherein in the

Intermediate position, the frame part is pivoted so that the rearmost distributor is approximated to the deposited layers closest and the foremost distributor on

farthest away.

According to this embodiment, a preferably rectangular frame part is provided, the dimension of which is made in the width so that it is at least as wide as the

Carrier base, so the material, what

should be built up layer by layer. The

lateral longitudinal frame struts extend parallel to the intended application direction. The

Cross-frame struts hold strip-like

Distribution devices. The two ends provided transverse frame struts carry the strip-like distribution devices. A central transverse frame strut holds a third strip-like distribution device. It is also possible, even more strip-like

Distribution devices on the frame part

provide, which are each arranged parallel to each other. The distributing devices are spaced from one another in the direction of application.

The frame part preferably has a longitudinal center between its two end regions formed by the end transverse frame struts

Swivel axis on. This is the frame part Limited pivotally held transversely to the order direction.

The entire frame part is movable by means of a first driving means from a starting position, in which all distribution devices are spatially arranged on one side next to the support base, to an intermediate position in which all distribution devices have been moved over the entire length of the support base and finally beyond the support base

are positioned. Furthermore, that is

Frame part by the first drive means again from the intermediate position in the

Start position moved back. To achieve the movement, for example, the

Frame part to be arranged displaceably guided on parallel to the application direction rails or positioned and moved by means of a suitable belt or belt drive. Starting from the starting position is the frontmost in the order direction

Distributor at such a distance from the plane formed by the support base or deposited on the support base

Layers arranged such that the distance corresponds to a first layer thickness. The other distribution facilities are through the

corresponding angular position of the frame part further away from the order level. The rearmost distribution device has the largest distance from the support base or on the Carrier base already deposited layers. It is possible in this way, by moving the frame part from the starting position into the intermediate position almost simultaneously depositing several layers on each other. After reaching the intermediate position, the frame part is pivoted about its pivot axis, so that then the hitherto rear distribution device now forms the foremost distribution device, which is closest to the carrier base or the deposited on the support base layers. The other distribution devices are positioned at a greater distance from the order level. By moving back the frame part from the intermediate position to the start position, several layers can again be deposited on top of one another almost simultaneously. If, for example, three on the frame part

Distribution devices are arranged, three layers can be built with each movement, so that after a complete movement a total of six layers on the support base or already on it

deposited layers are built.

Preferably, it is provided that the frame part by means of a second

Drive means limited to pivot about the pivot axis.

The second drive means may be for example a pivot drive, by means of which the Frame part limited to the pivot axis in

Clockwise and counterclockwise is movable to the two desired

Positions to build up the layers

adjust. The drive means can at

Frame part itself be attached and that

Swing the frame part around a fixed pivot axis.

In order to make the process advantageous, it is provided that an electronic control is provided, by means of which the first

Drive means, the second drive means and the one or more dispensers for the delivery of the material is actuated.

The electronic control serves to the first drive means and the second

To control drive means accordingly and also to actuate the dispenser for the delivery of the material, so to open the material drain or close. The controller is

Preferably designed so that by means of this in the starting position, a pivoting of the

Frame part is in the starting position and the frame part is then set in motion by the first drive means, wherein successively when the respective Verteileinrxchtung is positioned in the correct position over the support base, the dispenser for the delivery of the material at the first distributor is opened and successively in sequence the movement Subsequently, the other dispensers for the other distribution facilities are opened. Once a distribution device over the

Carrier base is moved to the end, the dispenser is closed by the controller for the distribution device located there.

After reaching the intermediate position, the first drive means is set still and operated in the reverse direction, wherein

simultaneously pivoted by the second drive means, the frame part in the second desired position. When driving over the

Carrier base is then in turn causes an opening of the dispenser for the output of the material in the region of the distribution devices. Towards the end of the movement

in turn, the dispenser closed sequentially until finally the entire frame part is again positioned in the start position next to the carrier base.

Preferably, it is provided that each distributor is provided with a dispenser for the material, each dispenser being open for the application of material, when the respective dispenser is above the carrier base, and each dispenser is closed against dispensing of material when the respective dispenser Distributor in

Order direction before or after the

Carrier base is located, and that the

Dispensing opening of the dispenser in the direction of application is respectively positioned in front of the associated distribution device.

Here, each distribution device is equipped with its own dispenser, so that the

Material is applied in each case in the application direction in front of the corresponding distributor and can be distributed by the distributor.

In addition, it can be provided that each distribution device with a controllable

Heating device is equipped to warm up the applied layers of material.

In this case, it is preferably provided that the heating devices are designed as electrical infrared and / or resistance heating elements.

In addition, it is provided that the heater is coupled to the electronic control and switchable via this. In the embodiment of the invention, the solidification of the by the

Distributed distributors

Powder material by electromagnetic

Radiation or particle radiation can be achieved, with the open construction of the

Frame part irradiation of the layers deposited by the distributor can be done. Before each of the

Powder application begins with preferably simultaneous solidification process by heating, the frame part together with the parts located thereon is inclined over the pivot axis so that the distribution devices are in each case correct height above the plane spanned by the building platform. By way of example, the distribution device located at the front in the direction of application is equal to one

Layer thickness disposed above the platform and each subsequent distribution device is positioned by a further layer thickness higher than the first layer thickness.

The support base is over in a

Installation space recessed support base vertically movable, on which the 3-dimensional

Objects are built up layer by layer.

It is also possible above a

Tray, which is located next to the support base, powder dosing too

position material powder at appropriate times in the underlying

Spend space, this material powder then attached by the attached to the frame

Distribution facilities distributed to the

Carrier base are applied.

During the movement of the distribution devices on the support base in the application direction Preferably, the deposited material is selectively solidified between the distributing means so that the first material layer is solidified before the second material layer

is applied and so on.

A preferred embodiment of the device is that the distribution devices are each coupled with heating elements to a suitable powder temperature

ensure that the powdered material is deposited on the underlying layer. The heating elements can be regulated

Infrared and resistance heating elements, which are fixed directly to the frame part. It is in this way a controlled heating of all simultaneously applied powder layers

allows. The embodiment of the invention is

especially suitable for cuboid construction spaces, as the construction platform and the

Powder application surface have a similar shape, so that the amount of used

Powder material can be kept low.

Due to the fact that the corresponding material is applied linearly by the distribution devices, it is ensured that the movement speed of the

Distribution facilities relative to the underneath lying layers does not vary across the width of the powder layer, but is constant.

This ensures that the applied powder layer over the entire build platform is homogeneous and has the same nature, so not by differences in the

Movement speed is affected.

In addition, it is advantageous here that the linear movement of the distributing devices wears them uniformly. This is also for the homogeneous layer formation

conducive. Also, the linear application of the

Powder material therefore advantageous because when additional heating elements are attached to the frame part, a uniform heating of the applied powder layer is achieved, unlike a circular or arcuate application movement of the

Distribution facilities.

According to the invention, a corresponding method and a corresponding apparatus for producing 3-dimensional bodies of a plurality of interconnected layers solidified made available in a container provided powdery or flowable material, wherein the

Information about the nature of each

Layer is determined by computer data, used in the manufacturing process, the invention being a clear

Time savings for the production of 3-dimensional objects achieved because the

Material by means of which layers

be built, with two or more

Loading devices is applied at different heights to the carrier base surface and partially distributed at the same time over the surface to be generated and optionally at different heights to

Carrier base surface almost simultaneously

is solidified, so that a considerable

Time savings over a conventional procedure and apparatus is achieved.

Further details, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the

following description of

Embodiments.

It shows:

Figure 1 seen an apparatus according to the invention for producing 3-dimensional body in cross section;

Figure 2 is a sketchy oblique view of

Details of Figure 1;

Figures 3 and 4 further views in

different

Device positions; Figure 5 shows an inventive frame part in an isometric view; Figure 6 shows the device with the frame part in a starting position in a schematic side view; likewise in the intermediate position, the device in the case of a different orientation of the frame part in the intermediate position; the movement of the frame part from the intermediate position back into the

Start position;

FIG. 10 shows the pivoting of the frame part from the position according to FIG. 9 into the new starting position analogously

FIG. 6.

In the drawing is a device for the generative production of a 3-dimensional

Object consisting of superimposed, solidified and interconnected

Layers of pourable material is shown. The device has a

Build-up container 10, which has a bottom,

Having side walls and a top wall. In the bottom wall is a vertical in the direction the moving arrow 11 movable support base 3 is arranged, which serves as a slide and are stored on the later-described layers. In addition to the body container 10, a dispenser 4 is arranged, which is for receiving

Material powder is used, which is connected via a chute with a metering device 5, via which the pourable material can be applied to the bottom of the body container 10 adjacent to the support base 3. Of

Furthermore, two distributing devices 1, 2 are provided, which are in the starting position, as shown in Figure 1, laterally next to the

Carrier base 3 are positioned. These

Distribution devices serve to position the material delivered by the metering device 5 in a corresponding layer thickness on the carrier base. Instead of two such distributing devices 1, 2 further such distributing devices may be provided.

As is illustrated by the illustration according to FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, by means of the

Distributor 1,2 on the order level, in particular on the support base 3 or already deposited layers,

superimposed layers of material dispensed by the metering device 5 material applied. For this purpose, a material layer is first to be applied to the application level by means of the distributor device 1. The first

Distribution device 1 is thereby by means of a suitable drive 25 in the direction of

Movement arrows 12 adjusted linearly over the entire plane of the support base 3 from the position shown on the right in Figure 1 to a left in Figure 1 position. After another dispensing of material in the

Build-up container through the metering device 5 follows with a suitable distance of this first distributor 1, the second

Distribution device 2, by means of which a further layer of the material is applied to the layer applied by the distributor device 1. This second distributor 2 also runs linearly in the direction of

Movement arrows 12 from right to left

Border edge of the support base 3. The two

Distribution facilities are partially running

At the same time on the support base and successively distribute the two layers of material over the surface and on each other, the second

Layer is applied to the first layer while the first layer is applied. The two distributing devices 1, 2 can be rigidly connected to each other, so that one drive 25 is sufficient for both. But it can also be a separate drive 26 for the second

Distributor 2 may be provided.

Upon reaching the left end position excess material is discharged through a slot 9 in the ground to a collecting vessel 27. After completion of the Materialaufgäbe, so if both layers on top of each other on the

Carrier base are positioned, the

Distribution devices 1 and 2, optionally lifted from the ragsebene on, be returned from the left side to the right starting position shown in Figure 1 to perform a new coating operation.

The distributing devices preferably have 1.2 stripping devices 28, 29 or

Rollers with scraper blades or stripping blades 2B, 29 to apply the material in a suitable manner. The vertical distance of the distribution devices 1,2 from the zu

coating level is adjustable to an appropriate level, so that correspondingly thick layers of material can be constructed.

Above the order level is also a

Radiation generator 8 arranged to the

Generation of electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation is suitable and determined. By means of this radiation generator 8, the deposited material layers on the order level are irradiated and thus

solidified and also interconnected. The emission direction of the radiation generator 8 can be adjusted. For example, the alignment of the beams of the beam generator can be carried out in the manner illustrated in FIG. 3, namely selectively behind a distributor 1.2

Beams are radiated to the there applied by these layer, so that these applied layers are zonally solidified in the wake of the respective distribution device and solidified. Consequently, the first distribution device 1

deposited layer of the beam generator 8 selectively solidified by the

Irradiation of the movement of the

Distributor in the direction of

Movement arrows 12 follows. This ensures that then, before material is applied to the second distribution device 2, the underlying layer already

is solidified. Following the second

Distribution device 2 is again by radiation delivery of the beam generator 8, a solidification of the material, which is applied by the second distribution device 2.

This radiation emission also follows the movement of the distributor 2 in the direction of

Movement Arrows 12. Contrary to the conventional technique is thus not an application of the layers in each case completely in succession, but there are several layers partly simultaneously through the partially simultaneously on the

Task level moved linearly

Spreading devices applied. The optimum number of distribution devices is determined by the Size of the slide, the

Material properties and the speed of the beam generator determined. The

Manufacturing time of objects becomes significant due to the accelerated layer structure

reduced.

The generated by irradiation

Hardening zones 6, 7 are shown in FIG.

In FIG. 4, it is shown that when the distributing devices 1, 2 have crossed the carrier base 3 in the direction of the movement arrow 12 and when the solidification of the

Particle layers by selective

electromagnetic or particle radiation of the radiation generator 8 is completed, the support base 3 by a corresponding

controlled drive 30 down in a suitable for a further material application

Position is adjusted. The

Distribution devices can then be easily adjusted back to the starting position according to FIGS. 1 and 2 without them having to be lifted. The procedure is repeated until the 3-dimensional object is generated.

FIGS. 5 to 10 show a particularly preferred device. In this case distribution devices 1, 2, 13 are arranged on a frame part 14. The frame part 14 is rectangular in plan view, wherein the longitudinal frame struts are aligned in the direction parallel to the application direction 17,18 and the transverse struts 15,16 at right angles thereto

are aligned. At this by the

Cross struts 15,16 formed end portions, the frame member 14 transverse to the linear

Application direction 17,18 extending strip-like distribution devices 1,2. In the middle region, a further transverse strut is provided, on which a further strip-like distribution device 13 is held. The

Distribution devices 1, 2, 13 are sufficiently spaced from one another in the application direction 17, 18. The frame part 14 is formed as an open frame part. Between its end regions 15, 16, the frame part has a likewise aligned transversely to the application direction 17, 18

Pivot axis 19, about which the frame member is pivotally limited so that it is pivotable in a position, as shown in Figure 6 and in an alternative position, as shown in Figure 8.

The frame part 14 is by means of a first drive means 21,21 * from a start position, which is shown in Figure 6 and in which all distribution devices 1,2,13 are arranged spatially next to the support base 3, in a

Movable intermediate position, the in Figure 7 is shown. For this purpose, the frame part 14 is moved by means of the drive 21,21 linearly in the direction of the movement arrow 17 on the order level. In the intermediate position according to FIG. 7, the frame part 14 is aligned such that all distribution devices 1, 2, 13 are arranged beyond the carrier base 3 or the layers 20 deposited thereon. From this position according to FIG. 7, this is

Frame part 14 after pivoting around the

Swivel axis 19 in the clockwise direction in the

Position adjustable according to Figure 8. In the starting position, as shown in Figure 6, the first distributor 1 is the

Coating level closest

arranged. The distributor 13 is higher than the layer thickness

Distributor 1 arranged and the

Distributor 2 in turn is around

Layer thickness height over the

Distributor 13 positioned higher.

In the intermediate position an orientation is achieved by pivoting the frame part 14 in the direction of the arrow 31, in which the

Distributor 2 of the coating plane is closest. The distribution device 13 is positioned higher by layer thickness than the distribution device 2 and the distribution device 1 is in turn positioned higher by layer thickness than the distribution device 13 Adjusting the position according to Figure 8 may again take place by means of a drive 21,21 ^λ a linear displacement of the frame part 14 along the movement arrow 18, wherein

again three layers on the support base 3 and on the layers 20 thereon are constructed and stored. Of the

Duty cycle is ended when the

Position is reached according to Figure 9, namely, when all distribution devices are 1,2,13 again positioned next to the support base. It then takes place again

Pivoting of the frame part 14 in the direction of the movement arrow 32, so that in turn results in the starting position shown in FIG.

In one working cycle, six layers can thus be built up on the carrier base 3 in the arrangement of three distributing devices 1, 2, 13.

The linear movement of the frame part 14, a homogeneous layer structure is achieved and there are further advantages thereof, which are given in the foregoing description.

For the pivoting movement of the frame part 14, a second drive means 22 is provided, by means of which the limited pivoting of the frame part 14 is made possible in the manner shown. Furthermore is

preferably an electronic controller 23 provided by means of which the first

Drive means 21,21, the second

Drive means 22 and the donor or the 4 or 4 ^Λ are actuated for the delivery of the material.

The dispensers 4 are two Pulverdosiereinrichtungen that bring at appropriate times material powder in the space, so put down on the bottom of the container 10 next to the support base 3. The dispenser 4 shown on the right in FIG. 6 is opened when the position according to FIG. 6 is reached, so that powder material between the frame part 14 and the carrier base 3

can be stored. When operating the

Device, in particular in the linear movement of the frame part 14 from the position shown in Figure 6 in the position shown in Figure 7, this amount of material through the

Distribution devices are distributed 1,2,13 and built on the support base 3.

In the position according to FIG. 8, material is introduced via the left-hand dispenser 4 onto the bottom surface of the body container located underneath, which in turn is then used to move the frame part along the movement arrow on the carrier base to form a layer. An alternative and preferred embodiment is that in each case dispenser 4 in

Region of each distribution device 1,2,13 are arranged. These donors are like that

designed to be in the movement of the

Frame part 14 from the starting position according to Figure 6 in the intermediate position according to Figure 7 respectively in the direction of the movement arrow 17 before the distribution devices 1,2,13 give up material which through the

Distribution devices on the support base 3 is distributed. In the alternative

Movement as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 is by means of the dispenser 4 ^Λ

again in front of the distribution facilities

1,2,13 material on the bottom surface of the

Dispensed container, which is then stored by the distributing devices 2,13,1 for the purpose of layering on the support base 3 and the layers 20 thereon.

Also in this embodiment is again above the through the support base 3 and located in the bottom of the body structure

Building platform a radiation generator 8

arranged, by means of which the filed

Layers can be successively consolidated. Due to the open design of the frame part 14 is an irradiation of the respective layer

immediately after application to the

Underlay allows, so the following Layers each on already solidified

Layers are applied.

Serving for adjusting the frame part 14 second drive means 22 is a

Pivoting drive, the limited movement of the frame part 14 about the pivot axis 19th

allows. By the electronic control 23, which is coupled to the dispensers 4 and 4, a corresponding opening of the dispenser for the purpose of dispensing material and closing the

Dispenser to prevent another

Material delivery in a simple manner feasible.

For example, the dispensers 4 and 4 ^{1 can have} closing plates or the like on the bottom side, which can be adjusted into the open position or closed position, wherein the adjustment by means of the electronic

Control 23 is triggered.

Preferably, each distribution device is 1,2,13 with a controllable heater 24, preferably in the form of an electrical

Infrared or resistance heating element

fitted. This makes it possible, in each case directly to heat the material discharged from the donors 4 ¹ , so that the material warmed up on the carrier base or the powder layers 20 thereon applied can be. This advantageously increases the accuracy of the construction process.

The heaters 24 are also preferably coupled to the electronic controller 23.

The invention is not on the

Embodiment limited, but in the context of the disclosure often variable.

All new, in the description and / or

Drawing disclosed single and

Combination ^features are called.

considered essential to the invention.

Bezugszeichenl

1 distribution device

2 distribution device

3 carrier base

4 donors

4 ¹ donor

5 metering device

6 solidification zone

7 solidification zone

8 radiation generator

9 slot

10 body containers

11 movement arrow

12 motion arrow

13 distribution device

14 frame part

15 end of 14

16 end of 14

17 Order direction

16 Ordering

19 pivot axis

20 layers

21 first drive means 21 ¹

22 second drive means

23 electronic control

24 heating device

25 drive

26 drive

27 collecting vessel

28 stripping device

29 stripping device drive

arrow

Claims

Claims:

1. A process for the generative production of a 3-dimensional object, in which layers of superimposed layers of pourable or flowable material on a support base (3) are applied successively by the

Material from a material application device by linear movement along the support base (3) on the support base (3) or already deposited on these layers (20) is applied, and the layers each solidified by the action of electromagnetic radiation or particle ^' and

be connected to each other, taking on the

Carrier base (3) or on already applied to these layers (20) material for

Formation of a first or a first

further layer progressively in a linear direction from a start area to a

End region is applied, thereby

characterized in that following the application of the first or first further layer during the application of the first or first further layer, material is formed to form a second layer to be formed on the first layer or first further layer

is applied progressively in a linear direction from the start region to the end region. Method according to claim 1, characterized

characterized in that during the application of the second layer or at least one further layer following the application of this layer in each case a further layer

is applied.

A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the application of each layer following the application of the

Next layer, a selective solidification of the respective zone of the applied

Material is made by electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation.

A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that several applied layers or zones of the applied

Layers through at the same time

electromagnetic radiation or

Particle radiation are solidified.

Method according to claim 4, characterized

characterized in that the solidification is carried out selectively from the starting region of the coating order beginning to the end region, ie in the form of a linear wandering

Radiation front.

Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the layers in uniform layer thickness can be applied.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the material for

Forming the layers in the starting area or next to the support base (3) is applied and to order by linear movement of a

Apply agent evenly over the

Order level is distributed.

Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the material is discharged from a reservoir immediately progressing from the start region to the end region for forming the corresponding material layers on the support base (3) or the layers thereon. 9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the layers of material during application or after the

Apply and compacted before solidifying.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a powder is applied as material.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the

Carrier base (3) depending on the Material thickness of the applied

Material layers from a starting position into different working positions

is lowered.

2. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that as a material powder is applied, which is preheated to a temperature which is lower than the temperature generated during the solidification by radiation, in particular lower than the sintering or melting temperature.

3. The method according to claim 12, characterized

characterized in that the powder material is preheated by means of infrared radiation.

4. Apparatus for the generative production of a 3-dimensional object, which consists of superimposed, solidified and

interconnected layers of pourable or flowable material, wherein the device at least one support base (3) as the application level for the object, a

Dispenser (4,4 ^) for the material and at least one rectilinear along the support base (3) movable distributor (1,2) for the layered distribution of the material, characterized in that at least two distribution devices (1,2) are provided, by means of those on the order level partially coinciding at the same time Material layers are applied, wherein the distribution devices (1,2) in such

Application direction can be moved in a row behind the other on the order level, which is first the lower layer and following on the upper layer can be applied.

5. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the distribution devices (1,2) as Abstreifeinrichtungen or

Rolling device with scraper blades or

Abstreifwalzen are formed.

6. Apparatus according to claim 14 or 15,

characterized in that the

Distribution devices (1,2) in one of them each to be generated layer thickness corresponding dimension with respect to the support base (3) are spaced.

17. Device according to one of claims 14 to

16, characterized in that the

Carrier base (3) is adjustable in height.

18. Device according to one of claims 14 to

17, characterized in that the

Distribution devices (1,2) with each other

are coupled and at the same time over the

Order level are movable.

19. Device according to one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that above the application level at least one

Radiation generator (8) is provided, by means of which deposited on the order level

Material layer or the material layers can be solidified or are.

20. Device according to one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that above the

Order level one or more

Radiation generator (8) are provided, by means of which selectively from a

Spreading device (1 or 2) applied layer is solidified zone by zone before the distributing device (1) in the application direction following distribution device (2) has reached the zone. 21. Device according to one of claims 14 to

20, characterized in that the dispenser (4) for the material

A material storage container, which is disposed during the dispensing of material near the support base (3) or above the support base (3) and having in its bottom an outlet opening and a metering device (5) coupled thereto for the material.

22. Device according to one of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that the

Distribution devices (1,2) each one Have material storage container, with the distribution device over the surface of the

Carrier base {3} or the material layer thereon is movable, and so on

is designed to have at least one

Outlet opening dispenses material in the direction of movement of the respective distributor (1, 2) in front of it.

23. Device according to claim 21 or 22,

dadurc marked that each

Distributor (1,2) a

Material storage container which is coupled as a transport package with the distributor (1,2) and whose side walls bounding the support base narrowing space, wherein at the discharge opening of this transport pack guide plates are arranged or formed, which are arranged such that they are for compressing the

Material layer at or after dispensing with the support base (3) include or form an acute angle. 24. Device according to one of claims 14 to

23, characterized in that the

Distribution devices (1,2) as

AbstreitVorrichtungen in the form of movable over the deposited material layer,

rotatable rollers are formed, whose

Rotation speed and / or movement direction is adjustable. Device according to one of claims 14 to 24, characterized in that the

Carrier base (3) is a vertically movable bottom of a body container (10), the

can be lowered according to the thickness of the material layers.

26. Device according to one of claims 14 to 25, characterized in that the respective lowest, the order level nearest distribution device (1) guide means for this movement following upper

Distributor (2), which in turn is supported on the guide means

Storage means comprises.

27. The device according to claim 26, characterized

in that the guide means form a lateral boundary for the applied material.

28. Device according to one of claims 14 to 27, characterized in that the

Distribution devices {1,2,13} on one

Frame part (14) are arranged, wherein the frame part (14) at least at its

End areas transverse to the linear

Application direction (17,18) extending

strip-like distribution devices (1, 2, 13), which are spaced from one another in the application direction (17, 18), the frame part (14) between its end portions (15,16) is pivotally supported limited to a likewise transversely to the application direction (17,18) aligned pivot axis (19), and the frame part (14) by means of a first drive means (21, 21 *) from a start position, in all distribution devices (1, 2, 13) are arranged spatially next to the support base (3), in an intermediate position, in which all

Distributing means (1,2,13) are linearly moved along the length of the support base (3) and positioned beyond the support base (3), and back to the starting position

is movable, wherein in the starting position in the order direction (17) foremost

Distributor (1) has a first layer thickness corresponding vertical distance from the plane through the

Carrier base (3) or already on the

Carrier base (3) deposited layers (20) is stretched, and in the application direction

(17) rearmost distribution device (2) has at least one further layer thickness

corresponding distance thereof, and wherein in the intermediate position, the frame part

(14) is pivoted so that the rearmost distributor (2) the stored

Layers (20) is approximated closest and the foremost distributor (1) is furthest away.

9. Apparatus according to claim 28, characterized in that the frame part (14) by means of a second drive means (22) about the pivot axis (19) is limited pivotally

0. Apparatus according to claim 28 or 29,

characterized in that a

electronic control (23) is provided, by means of which the first drive means

(21,21 ^Λ ), the second drive means (22) and the one or more donors (4,4 ^Λ ) for the de material is actuated.

1. Apparatus according to claim 28 to 30,

characterized in that ede

Distributor (1,2,13) is equipped with a dispenser (4) for the material, each dispenser (4 ^X ) for the order of

Material is opened when the respective distribution device (1,2,13) is located above the support base (3), and each dispenser (4 is closed against material delivery when the respective distribution device (1,2,13) in the application direction (17 , 18) in front of or behind the support base (3), and that the discharge opening of the dispenser (4) in

Application direction (17,18) respectively. or the associated distribution device (1,2,13) is positioned.

2. Apparatus according to claim 28 to 31,

characterized in that each Distributor (1,2,13) with a controllable heater (24) for heating the applied material layers

Is provided.

3. A device according to claim 32, characterized in that the heating means (24) are designed as electrical infrared and / or resistance heating elements.

4. Apparatus according to claim 32 or 33, characterized in that the

Heating device (24) coupled to the electronic control (23) and are switchable via this.