JP2017094625A - Three-dimensional object molding apparatus, three-dimensional object molding method, and control program for three-dimensional object molding apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide such technology that can suppress decrease in the strength of a boundary part where colors change in a molded layer.SOLUTION: A three-dimensional object is molded in such a manner that: the object includes at least, a first molded layer containing a first dot made of a first liquid of a first color and a second dot made of a second liquid of a second color different from the first color, and a second molded layer cured and made of a third liquid for joining the first dot and the second dot, which joins at least the first dot and the second dot included in the first molded layer; and the object sequentially includes the first molded layer, the second molded layer, the first molded layer and the second molded layer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to a three-dimensional object formation apparatus, a three-dimensional object formation method, and a control program for a three-dimensional object formation apparatus.

  A 3D (three-dimensional) printer is known as a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus. 3D printers that use ink that is cured by ultraviolet irradiation, for example, form dots by discharging droplets of ultraviolet curable ink to cure by ultraviolet irradiation to form a modeling layer, and stack the modeling layer. Shape a three-dimensional object. The three-dimensional modeling apparatus (three-dimensional object modeling apparatus) described in Patent Document 1 is formed by forming the next modeling material layer in a state in which tackiness has disappeared from the surface of the previous modeling material layer (modeling layer). By doing so, a skeleton part is modeled, and the second part other than the skeleton part is modeled by forming and stacking the next modeling material layer in a state where tackiness remains on the surface of the previous modeling material layer.

JP2015-1112836A

For example, in the case of modeling a three-dimensional object using CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) ultraviolet curable ink, the curing speed varies depending on the color of the ink. Since the polymerization does not proceed at the same time, there is a possibility that the polymer is interrupted at the boundary portion and the strength is weakened to cause cracks, peeling, and the like. Since the technique described in Patent Document 1 does not consider the use of a colored modeling material, there is no suggestion to solve the problem that the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer becomes weak.
The above problems are not limited to 3D printers that use ultraviolet curable inks, but three-dimensional object modeling apparatuses that use visible light curable inks that are cured by visible light irradiation, and thermosetting inks that are cured by heating. Various techniques such as a three-dimensional object shaping apparatus to be used also exist in the same manner when the curing speed differs depending on the color of ink.

  In view of the above, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in strength of a boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.

To achieve one of the above objects, the present invention provides a plurality of types of liquids including a first liquid having a first color and a second liquid having a second color different from the first color. A head unit that discharges a plurality of types of liquid in which dots are formed; and
A modeling control unit for controlling the modeling of a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured;
A three-dimensional object shaping apparatus comprising:
The plurality of types of liquids include a third liquid for joining the first dots by the first liquid and the second dots by the second liquid,
The modeling controller
A first modeling layer including at least the first dot and the second dot;
A second modeling layer cured by the third liquid, the second modeling layer joining at least the first dots and the second dots contained in the first modeling layer;
And the modeling of the three-dimensional object is controlled so as to include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer in this order.

Also, the present invention provides a plurality of types of liquids including a first liquid having a first color and a second liquid having a second color different from the first color, in which dots are formed. A three-dimensional object modeling method for modeling a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured using a head unit that discharges liquid,
A first modeling layer including at least a first dot from the first liquid and a second dot from the second liquid;
A second modeling layer cured with a third liquid for joining the first dot and the second dot, and at least the first dot and the second dot contained in the first modeling layer are joined. A second modeling layer;
And a three-dimensional object is formed so as to sequentially include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a plurality of types of liquids including a first liquid having a first color and a second liquid having a second color different from the first color, in which dots are formed. A control program for a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that includes a head unit that discharges liquid and controls the formation of a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured
A first modeling layer including at least a first dot from the first liquid and a second dot from the second liquid;
A second modeling layer cured with a third liquid for joining the first dot and the second dot, and at least the first dot and the second dot contained in the first modeling layer are joined. A second modeling layer;
And the computer realizes the function of controlling the modeling of the three-dimensional object so as to sequentially include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer. It has an aspect.

  The aspect mentioned above can provide the technique which can suppress the intensity | strength fall of the boundary part from which a color changes in a modeling layer.

  Furthermore, the present invention provides a three-dimensional object modeling system including a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus, a control method for a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus, a control method for a three-dimensional object modeling system including this control method, a control program for a three-dimensional object modeling system, and a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus. And a computer-readable medium in which a control program for a three-dimensional object modeling system is recorded. The aforementioned apparatus may be composed of a plurality of distributed parts.

The functional block diagram which shows the structural example of the three-dimensional object modeling system containing a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus. The figure which shows the modeling example of a solid thing typically. The figure which shows the example of a solid thing modeling apparatus typically. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of arrangement of nozzles of a recording head suitable for unidirectional recording. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of arrangement of nozzles of a recording head suitable for bidirectional recording. The figure which shows typically an example of the concept which produces | generates discharge of the droplet equivalent to a large dot, discharge of the droplet equivalent to a medium dot, discharge of the droplet equivalent to a small dot, or non-discharge of a droplet from a drive signal. The flowchart which shows the example of modeling processing. The figure which shows typically the example which covers a 1st modeling layer with a 2nd modeling layer. The figure which shows typically the example covered with a 2nd modeling layer in the part which the 1st dot and the 2nd dot adjoined among the 1st modeling layers. The flowchart which shows another example of modeling process. The figure which shows the example which corrects modeling layer data typically. The figure which shows typically another example covered with a 2nd modeling layer in the part which the 1st dot and the 2nd dot adjoined among the 1st modeling layers. The flowchart which shows the example of the modeling process using powder. The figure which shows typically the modeling example of the solid thing using powder. The figure which illustrates typically strength reduction of the boundary part in which a color changes in a modeling layer.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. Of course, the following embodiments are merely examples of the present invention, and all the features shown in the embodiments are not necessarily essential to the means for solving the invention.

(1) Overview of this technology:
First, an overview of the present technology will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15 are schematic diagrams, and the drawings may not be consistent.

[Aspect 1]
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4 and the like includes a first liquid LQ1 of a first color (for example, C (cyan) and M (magenta)), and a second different from the first color. A head unit 3 that discharges a plurality of types of liquids LQ2 including a second liquid LQ2 of the same color (for example, Y (yellow) and K (black)) and forming a dot DT, and is cured. A modeling control unit U1 that controls modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj by the dots DT. As illustrated in FIG. 4 and the like, the plurality of types of liquids LQ are the third liquid LQ3 for joining the first dots DT1 formed by the first liquid LQ1 and the second dots DT2 formed by the second liquid LQ2. (For example, CL (clear) ink). As illustrated in FIG. 2 and the like, the modeling control unit U1 includes the first modeling layer LY1 including at least the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2, and the second modeling cured by the third liquid LQ3. At least a second modeling layer LY2 that is a layer LY2 and at least the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 included in the first modeling layer LY1, and the first modeling layer LY1, The modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj is controlled so as to sequentially include the second modeling layer LY2, the first modeling layer LY1, and the second modeling layer LY2.

  FIG. 15 schematically illustrates a state in which the strength of the boundary portion B <b> 1 whose color changes in the modeling layer LY decreases when there is no second modeling layer as a comparative example. In the upper part of FIG. 15, a three-dimensional object Obj having a cyan region composed of C (cyan) ink in the left half and a yellow region composed of Y (yellow) ink in the right half is schematically illustrated. Is shown. The middle part of FIG. 15 schematically shows a broken line part BL1 surrounded by a square in the cross section SEC of the three-dimensional object Obj. The lower part of FIG. 15 schematically shows a thick line portion of the modeling layer LY.

  When a dot DT of ultraviolet curable ink is formed for each modeling layer LY and cured by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation from the curing unit 61, a three-dimensional object Obj is formed. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 15, the photopolymerization of the UV curable ink dots DT proceeds from the curing unit 61 side (upper side in FIG. 15). At the same time, the polymerized portions are connected even between inks of different polymers, and the strength is increased. Here, since the Y ink dot (DT2) contains a color material that easily absorbs ultraviolet rays, the polymerization on the side opposite to the curing unit 61 is delayed. On the other hand, since the color material contained in the C ink dot (DT1) hardly absorbs ultraviolet rays (ultraviolet rays are easily transmitted), polymerization on the side opposite to the curing unit 61 proceeds rapidly. That is, the curing speed of the C ink and the Y ink by the curing unit 61 is different. Therefore, in the same modeling layer LY, the polymer P3 that is connected horizontally between the C ink and Y ink dots is formed on the curing unit 61 side in the boundary portion B1 between the C dot (DT1) and the Y dot (DT2). However, on the side opposite to the curing unit 61, the polymer P1 of the C ink and the polymer P2 of the Y ink are not connected and the strength is lowered. If the intensity is low between dots of different colors, there is a possibility that cracks, peeling, etc. may occur at the boundary B1.

  On the other hand, in the first aspect of the present technology, as illustrated in FIG. 8 and the like, the first dot DT1 of the first color and the second dot DT2 of the second color included in the first modeling layer LY1 are the second. Joined by the third liquid LQ3 of the modeling layer LY2. In such a state, the three-dimensional object Obj includes the first modeling layer LY1, the second modeling layer LY2, the first modeling layer LY1, and the second modeling layer LY2. Therefore, this aspect can provide the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 that can suppress the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.

  Here, the second modeling layer may overlap the entire first modeling layer, or may partially overlap the first modeling layer.

[Aspect 2]
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 may further include a curing unit 61 that cures the dots DT from the liquid LQ from the head unit 3. The curing rate of the first liquid LQ1 by the curing unit 61 and the curing rate of the second liquid LQ2 by the curing unit 61 may be different. If the curing speeds of the first liquid LQ1 and the second liquid LQ2 are different, the strength of the boundary portion B1 between the dot DT of the first liquid LQ1 and the dot DT of the second liquid LQ2 tends to decrease. Therefore, this aspect can provide a suitable technique for suppressing a decrease in strength at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer.
Here, the curing unit includes an ultraviolet irradiation unit, a visible light irradiation unit, a heating unit, and the like.
Even if the curing speed of the first liquid and the curing speed of the second liquid are the same, the first liquid dot and the second liquid dot may differ depending on the nature of the first liquid and the second liquid. In some cases, the strength of the boundary portion tends to decrease. Even in such a case, the present technology can be applied.

[Aspect 3]
The third liquid LQ3 may be a liquid LQ having less color material components or no color material than the first liquid LQ1 and the second liquid LQ2. This aspect can provide a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in strength at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer while maintaining good color reproduction. The third liquid LQ3 may be a non-colored liquid (for example, CL ink).
Of course, it is also included in the present technology that the color material component of the third liquid is greater than or equal to the color material component of the first liquid or the second liquid.

[Aspect 4]
As illustrated in FIG. 2 and the like, the modeling control unit U1 may control the modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj so that the second modeling layer LY2 covers the first modeling layer LY1. Then, the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 included in the first modeling layer LY1 are joined by the third liquid LQ3. Therefore, this aspect can provide a technique capable of suppressing the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer with simple control.

[Aspect 5]
Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 12, the modeling control unit U1 selectively selects the first modeling layer LY1 at a portion where the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 are adjacent to each other. The modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj may be controlled so as to be covered with the two modeling layers LY2. Then, it is not necessary to cover a portion of the first modeling layer LY1 where the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 are not adjacent to each other with the second modeling layer LY2. Therefore, this aspect can provide a technique that can efficiently suppress the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.

[Aspect 6]
As illustrated in FIG. 4 and the like, the dot (DT3) of the third liquid LQ3 may be smaller than the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2. This aspect can provide a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in strength at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer while maintaining good color reproduction. In addition, it is included in this technique that the size of the dot of the third liquid is larger than the size of the first dot or the second dot.

[Aspect 7]
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the modeling control unit U1 may include a driving unit U2 that moves the head unit 3 that discharges the liquid LQ relative to the three-dimensional object Obj that is being modeled in the scanning direction D1. . As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the head unit 3 may include a first nozzle NZ1 that discharges the first liquid LQ1. The head unit 3 may have a second nozzle NZ2 that discharges the second liquid LQ2. Further, the head unit 3 includes the first nozzle NZ1 and the third nozzle NZ3 that is disposed on the side D1u that goes back in the scanning direction D1 from the second nozzle NZ2 and discharges the third liquid LQ3. May be. Since this aspect can form both the 1st modeling layer LY1 and the 2nd modeling layer LY2 in one scan, it can speed up the processing which models a solid thing.
Of course, the present technology includes the case where the third nozzle is not located on the side going back in the scanning direction from the first nozzle and the second nozzle, and is located on the side opposite to the going back side.
Here, in order to move the head unit in the scanning direction with respect to the three-dimensional object, the head unit is moved without moving the three-dimensional object, the three-dimensional object is moved without moving the head unit, and the head unit. And moving both objects and solid objects.

[Aspect 8]
The modeling control unit U1 may eject the liquid LQ from the head unit 3 so that the three-dimensional object Obj is modeled by bidirectional scanning in the scanning direction D1. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the third nozzle NZ3 may be disposed on both sides of the first nozzle NZ1 and the second nozzle NZ2 in the scanning direction D1. In this aspect, both the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2 can be formed in the forward scanning, and both the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2 are formed in the backward scanning. can do. Therefore, this aspect can speed up the process of modeling a three-dimensional object.

[Aspect 9]
The first liquid LQ1 may include at least one of cyan ink and magenta ink. The second liquid LQ2 may include yellow ink. Since yellow ink is relatively easy to absorb light on the short wavelength side, the curing speed during ultraviolet irradiation tends to be slow. On the other hand, since cyan ink and magenta ink are relatively easy to transmit light on the short wavelength side, the curing speed during ultraviolet irradiation tends to be high. Therefore, the boundary portion B1 between the cyan ink dot DT and the magenta ink dot DT included in the first modeling layer LY1 tends to have a relatively high strength. On the other hand, the boundary B1 between the yellow ink dot DT and the cyan ink or magenta ink dot DT included in the first modeling layer LY1 tends to be relatively weak. Therefore, this aspect can provide a suitable example that suppresses the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.
Further, the second liquid LQ2 may contain black ink or the like in addition to yellow ink.

[Aspect 10]
1 to 4 and the like include at least the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2, and the first modeling layer LY1, the second modeling layer LY2, and the The three-dimensional object Obj is modeled so as to sequentially include the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2. This aspect can provide a three-dimensional object modeling method capable of suppressing a decrease in strength at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer.

[Aspect 11]
The control program PR0 of the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 exemplified in FIGS. 1 to 4 includes at least the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2, and the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY1. The computer realizes the function of controlling the modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj so as to include the modeling layer LY2, the first modeling layer LY1, and the second modeling layer LY2. This aspect can provide a control program capable of suppressing a decrease in strength at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer.

(2) Specific example of a three-dimensional object modeling system including a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus:
FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a three-dimensional object modeling system 100 including a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 and a host device 9 as a configuration example of a system including a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus. FIG. 2 schematically shows a modeling example of the three-dimensional object Obj. FIG. 3 schematically shows an example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 1. Y shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 does not mean yellow, but represents the Y direction. The X, Y, and Z directions shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 are assumed to be orthogonal to each other, but the present technology also includes a case where they are not orthogonal as long as they intersect each other. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 forms a combination of a layered first modeling layer LY1 and a layered second modeling layer LY2 with a predetermined thickness ΔZ using dots DT formed by the discharged liquid LQ. The three-dimensional object Obj is modeled by laminating the combination of the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2. The host device 9 illustrated in FIG. 1 generates modeling layer data FD that defines the shape and color of each first modeling layer LY1 of the three-dimensional object Obj.

  The host device 9 includes a display operation unit 91, a model data generation unit 92, a modeling data generation unit 93, and a storage unit (not shown), and the operation of each unit is controlled by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown). The display operation unit 91 includes a display and operation input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device. The model data generation unit 92 generates model data Dat described later. The modeling data generation unit 93 generates modeling layer data FD based on the model data Dat. The storage unit stores a control program for the host device 9, a driver program for the three-dimensional object shaping apparatus 1, an application program such as CAD (Computer Aided Design) software, and the like. The host device 9 includes a computer such as a personal computer.

The model data Dat is data indicating the shape and color of the model representing the three-dimensional object Obj, and is data for designating the shape and color of the three-dimensional object Obj. It should be noted that the color of the three-dimensional object Obj is the manner in which the plurality of colors are added when the three-dimensional object Obj is provided with a plurality of colors, that is, the pattern, characters, etc. represented by the plurality of colors attached to the three-dimensional object Obj. These images are also included. The model data Dat only needs to include information that can identify at least the external shape of the three-dimensional object Obj, and specifies the internal shape and material of the three-dimensional object Obj in addition to the external shape and color of the three-dimensional object Obj. It may be. As the data format of the model data Dat, AMF (Additive Manufacturing File Format), STL (Standard Triangulated Language), or the like can be used.
The model data generation unit 92 is realized by, for example, a CAD application, and specifies the shape and color of the three-dimensional object Obj based on information input by the user of the three-dimensional object modeling system 100 by operating the display operation unit 91. Model data Dat is generated.

  In this specific example, a method of modeling a three-dimensional object Obj in which a combination of the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2 is stacked in Q pairs (Q is a natural number satisfying Q ≧ 2) will be described. Further, the first modeling layer LY1 formed by the q-th stacking process (q is a natural number satisfying 1 ≦ q ≦ Q) among the Q stacking processes for forming the first modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2. The modeling layer data which is called the modeling layer LY1 [q], and the second modeling layer LY2 formed by the q-th stacking process is called the modeling layer LY2 [q], and determines the shape and color of the first modeling layer LY1 [q]. The FD is referred to as modeling layer data FD [q]. Note that the second modeling layer LY2 [q] shown in FIG. 2 is formed with CL ink (example of the third liquid LQ3) regardless of the modeling layer data, so that the shape and color of the second modeling layer LY2 [q] are changed. There is no need to generate the modeling layer data to be defined.

  The modeling data generation unit 93 first generates cross-sectional model data indicating the cross-sectional shape and color obtained by slicing the three-dimensional shape indicated by the model data Dat for each thickness ΔZ. In addition, the modeling data generation unit 93 determines the arrangement of dots to be formed by the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 in order to form the first modeling layer LY1 [q] corresponding to the shape and color indicated by the cross-sectional model data. The determination result is output as modeling layer data FD [q]. The modeling layer data FD [q] specifies the dots DT to be formed in each voxel Vx by subdividing the shape and color indicated by the cross-sectional model data into voxels (unit modeling bodies) Vx arranged in a grid. The voxel Vx is a virtual solid, and in this specific example, the thickness is ΔZ and is a rectangular parallelepiped having a unit volume. Of course, the shape of the virtual voxel is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the dots (first dot DT1 or second dot DT2) of the first modeling layer LY1 and the third dots DT3 of the second modeling layer LY2 are formed on the voxel Vx. Three or more dots may be formed in one voxel Vx, or only one dot may be formed as described later.

  The three-dimensional object formation apparatus 1 performs a lamination process of the formation layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] based on the formation layer data FD [q]. In FIG. 2, the first modeling layer LY1 [1] is formed based on the modeling layer data FD [1], and the second modeling layer LY2 [1] is stacked on the first modeling layer LY1 [1]. An example is shown in which the first modeling layer LY1 [2] is stacked based on the layer data FD [2] and the second modeling layer LY2 [2] is stacked on the first modeling layer LY1 [2]. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 models the three-dimensional object Obj by sequentially stacking the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q].

  In order to model the three-dimensional object Obj, it is preferable that the three-dimensional object Obj is solid. When the shape specified by the model data Dat is a hollow shape, the modeling data generation unit 93 according to this specific example complements the hollow portion of the shape indicated by the model data Dat so that the three-dimensional object Obj is solid. Assume that data FD is generated. Alternatively, the hollow portion may be formed of a material that can be easily removed after three-dimensional modeling, such as water-soluble ink, and the material may be removed.

  Next, the three-dimensional object formation apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 includes a modeling table 45, a carriage 41, a head unit 3, a curing unit 61, a position change mechanism 7, a storage unit 60, a control unit 6, and the like. The modeling table 45 has a stacking surface of the modeling layers LY1 and LY2 on the upper surface, and is installed so as to be movable up and down with respect to the housing 40 by the modeling table lifting mechanism 79a. The carriage 41 has the head unit 3 and an ink cartridge (liquid cartridge) 48 mounted thereon, and is disposed above the modeling table 45. As will be described in detail later, the head unit 3 has a recording head 30 having a plurality of ejection portions D that eject (spray) droplets (liquid LQ) toward the modeling table 45, and a drive signal to each ejection portion D. A drive signal generation unit 31 that generates Vin is provided. The position change mechanism 7 and the control unit 6 are examples of the modeling control unit U1.

  The curing unit 61 cures the dot DT by the liquid LQ discharged onto the modeling table 45. For the curing unit 61, a light source having a suitable wavelength or a heat source is used to cure the liquid LQ. For example, if an ultraviolet curable ink is used as the liquid LQ, the curing unit 61 is composed of an ultraviolet light source having a wavelength with a high curing efficiency for the liquid LQ. If a visible light curable ink is used as the liquid LQ, a visible light source is used for the curing unit 61, and if a thermosetting ink is used, a heat source such as an infrared heater is used for the curing unit 61. The curing unit 61 can be installed on the upper side (+ Z direction) of the modeling table 45, for example. In this specific example, a case will be described in which the curing unit 61 is a near-ultraviolet LED light source having a wavelength of 395 nm as a central wavelength and is disposed in the + Z direction of the modeling table 45.

  The position change mechanism 7 includes drive motors 71 to 74, motor drivers 75 to 78, and the like. The lifting mechanism drive motor 71 is driven by a motor driver 75 and moves the modeling table 45 in the Z direction (+ Z direction and −Z direction) via the modeling table lifting mechanism 79a. The carriage drive motor 72 is driven by a motor driver 76 to move the carriage 41 in the Y direction (+ Y direction and −Y direction) along the carriage guide 79b. The carriage drive motor 72 and the motor driver 76 are examples of the drive unit U2. The carriage guide drive motor 73 is driven by a motor driver 77 to move the carriage guide 79b in the X direction (+ X direction and −X direction) along the guide 79c. The curing unit drive motor 74 is driven by a motor driver 78 to move the curing unit 61 in the X direction (+ X direction and −X direction) along the guide 79d.

  The storage unit 60 includes a nonvolatile memory and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The non-volatile memory stores a control program PR0 for the three-dimensional object forming apparatus. As the nonvolatile memory, a rewritable nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a flash memory, a rewritable nonvolatile magnetic memory such as a hard disk, and the like can be used. The RAM stores a control program PR0 developed from a non-volatile memory, modeling layer data FD from the host device 9, and the like.

  The control unit 6 includes a CPU that performs control processing for the entire three-dimensional object formation apparatus in accordance with the control program PR0 and the like. The controller 6 models the three-dimensional object Obj according to the model data Dat by controlling the operations of the head unit 3 and the position change mechanism 7 based on the modeling layer data FD from the host device 9. For example, the control unit 6 generates various signals including an analog drive waveform signal Com and a waveform designation signal SI for driving the ejection unit D according to the modeling layer data FD, and outputs the generated signals to the head unit 3. . Further, the control unit 6 generates various signals for controlling the operations of the motor drivers 75 to 78 in accordance with the modeling layer data FD, and outputs the generated signals to the position change mechanism 7.

  FIG. 4 schematically shows an arrangement example of the nozzles NZ (a part of the ejection part D shown in FIG. 1) of the recording head 30 included in the head unit 3. 4 shows a nozzle surface 33 in which a plurality of nozzle rows 32 are arranged in the Y direction (scanning direction D1) in the recording head 30. FIG. 4 moves the liquid LQ for forming dots from the nozzle NZ while moving in the scanning direction D1 (from the back side D1u to the opposite side D1d) with respect to the modeling table 45 that has not moved. It is assumed that unidirectional recording is performed. In the plurality of nozzle rows 32, in the order of the scanning direction D1, the nozzle row 32CL in which the third nozzles NZ3 for discharging droplets of CL are arranged in the X direction, and the first nozzle NZ1 for discharging droplets of C are arranged in the X direction. Nozzle row 32C, nozzle row 32M in which first nozzles NZ1 for discharging droplets of M are arranged in the X direction, nozzle row 32Y in which second nozzles NZ2 for discharging droplets of Y are arranged in the X direction, and K The second nozzle NZ2 that discharges the liquid droplets includes a nozzle row 32K arranged in the X direction. Here, the nozzles NZ1 to NZ3 are collectively referred to as a nozzle NZ. C and M are examples of the first color, Y and K are examples of the second color, C ink and M ink are examples of the first liquid LQ1, and Y ink and K ink are the second liquid. This is an example of LQ2, and CL ink is an example of the third liquid LQ3. These liquids LQ1 to LQ3 are collectively referred to as a liquid LQ. The CL ink is an ink to which no color material is added, and is a liquid having fewer color material components than the CMYK ink. Further, as shown in the lower side of FIG. 4, the third dot DT3 is formed from the CL droplet, the first dot DT1 is formed from the C and M droplets, and the second dot is formed from the Y and K droplets. DT2 is formed. These dots DT1 to DT3 are collectively referred to as dots DT. When the unidirectional recording is performed, the third dot DT3 of CL is formed on one of the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 with respect to the same voxel Vx. The CL ink that forms the second modeling layer LY2 in this way joins the first dot DT1 formed by the first liquid LQ1 of C and M and the second dot DT2 formed by the second liquid LQ2 of Y and K. This is an example of the third liquid LQ3.

The arrangement of the nozzles NZ in each nozzle row 32 may be a direction shifted from the X direction in the nozzle surface 33, and may be not only linear but also so-called staggered.
In addition to the nozzle NZ, the ejection unit D shown in FIG. 1 has a drive element that ejects liquid droplets from the nozzle NZ by an applied drive signal Vin. As the driving element, a piezoelectric element that applies pressure to the liquid LQ in the pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle NZ, a thermal element that generates bubbles in the pressure chamber by heat and discharges droplets from the nozzle NZ, and the like can be used. In this embodiment, the drive element is configured by using a piezoelectric element as a piezoelectric element. Liquid LQ is supplied from the ink cartridge 48 to the pressure chamber. The liquid LQ in the pressure chamber is ejected as a droplet from the nozzle NZ toward the modeling table 45 by the driving element, and droplet dots DT are formed on the modeling layer LY. By the relative movement of the recording head 30 and the modeling table 45, the modeling layer LY corresponding to the modeling layer data FD is formed.

  When performing bidirectional recording, the recording head 30 shown in FIG. 5 may be used. The plurality of nozzle rows 32 of the recording head 30 includes a nozzle row 32CL1, a nozzle row 32C, a nozzle row 32M, and a nozzle row 32Y in which the third nozzles NZ3 that discharge CL droplets are arranged in the X direction in the forward direction D2. , The nozzle row 32K and the third nozzle NZ3 that discharges the droplets of CL include the nozzle row 32CL2 arranged in the X direction. In the recording in the forward direction D2, by using the nozzle row 32CL1, the third dot DT3 of CL is formed on any one of the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 with respect to the same voxel Vx. In the recording in the backward direction D3, by using the nozzle row 32CL2, the third dot DT3 of CL is formed on one of the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 with respect to the same voxel Vx.

  Various known circuits that apply a drive signal to a drive element that discharges droplets from the nozzle NZ can be used for the drive signal generation unit 31.

  FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a concept for generating ejection of a droplet corresponding to a large dot, ejection of a droplet corresponding to a medium dot, ejection of a droplet corresponding to a small dot, or non-ejection of a droplet from the drive signal Vin. Is shown. Note that the waveforms PL1, PL2, and PL3 of the drive signal Vin shown in FIG. 6 are merely schematic and are not necessarily actual waveforms.

  In this example, when a droplet corresponding to a large dot is ejected from the nozzle NZ, the drive signal generation unit 31 has three waveforms PL1, 1 in a predetermined ejection unit period based on the drive waveform signal Com input from the control unit 6. PL2 and PL3 are supplied to the ejection unit D as the drive signal Vin. As a result, droplets are ejected from the nozzles NZ at a timing in accordance with the waveforms PL1, PL2, and PL3, and large dots are formed.

  Further, when ejecting a droplet equivalent to a medium dot from the nozzle NZ, the drive signal generation unit 31 generates two waveforms PL1 and PL2 in the ejection unit period based on the drive waveform signal Com input from the control unit 6. The drive signal Vin is supplied to the discharge unit D. As a result, droplets are ejected from the nozzles NZ at a timing in accordance with the waveforms PL1 and PL2, and a medium dot is formed.

Further, when ejecting a droplet corresponding to a small dot from the nozzle NZ, the drive signal generation unit 31 outputs a single waveform PL1 in the ejection unit period based on the drive waveform signal Com input from the control unit 6 as a drive signal. It is supplied to the discharge unit D as Vin. Thereby, a droplet is ejected from the nozzle NZ at a timing in accordance with the waveform PL1, and a small dot is formed.
In addition, when the liquid droplets are not discharged from the nozzle NZ, the drive signal generation unit 31 does not supply any of the waveforms PL1, PL2, and PL3 to the discharge unit D. Is not formed.

(3) First processing example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus:
FIG. 7 shows an example of a modeling process performed by the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 shown in FIG. This process is performed mainly by the control unit 6. When acquiring the modeling layer data FD from the host device 9, the control unit 6 controls the modeling of the three-dimensional object Obj by the dots DT that are cured in the modeling processing in steps S102 to S108. Hereinafter, the description of “step” is omitted. Note that the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 1 performs a plurality of processes in parallel by multitasking.

  The control unit 6 that has acquired the modeling layer data FD sets the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] that form the dots DT (S102). This process can be, for example, a process of setting the number of processing times (1, 2,..., Q) of S102 in a variable q indicating the number of execution times of the lamination process. Next, the controller 6 causes the motor driver 75 to drive the lifting mechanism drive motor 71 so as to move the modeling table 45 to a position in the Z direction for forming the modeling layers LY1 [q], LY2 [q]. (S104). For example, when forming the modeling layers LY1 [1] and LY2 [1] in FIG. 2, the control unit 6 raises the modeling table 45 to a predetermined proximity position close to the curing unit 61. When forming the modeling layers LY1 [2] and LY2 [2] of FIG. 2, the control unit 6 lowers the modeling table 45 by a thickness ΔZ from the proximity position.

  After moving the modeling table 45, the control unit 6 changes the position of the head unit 3 so that the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are formed based on the q-th modeling layer data FD [q]. The operation of the mechanism 7 and the curing unit 61 is controlled (S106). For example, this process may be a process of repeatedly ejecting ink droplets (liquid LQ) from the nozzle NZ and feeding the head unit 3 in the X direction while scanning the head unit 3 in the scanning direction D1 (Y direction). it can. For example, the control unit 6 causes the motor driver 76 (example included in the drive unit U2) to drive the carriage drive motor 72 (example included in the drive unit U2) so as to move the head unit 3 in the scanning direction D1. Further, the control unit 6 causes the motor driver 77 to drive the carriage guide driving motor 73 so as to move the carriage guide 79b in the X direction together with the head unit 3. Here, CMYK inks (liquids LQ1, LQ2) are ejected from the CMYK nozzles NZ1, NZ2 in accordance with the modeling layer data FD [q] to form dots DT1, DT2 of a predetermined size (for example, large dots). . In addition, CL ink (third liquid LQ3) is ejected from the third nozzle NZ3 of CL regardless of the modeling layer data FD [q], and the third dot DT3 of a predetermined size (for example, a small dot) is set to the dots DT1, DT1. Overlay on DT2. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, after the ink droplets from the CMYK nozzles NZ1 and NZ2 land on the same voxel Vx, the ink droplets from the CL third nozzle NZ3 land. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 2, 7, and 8, the third dot DT3 of CL forming the second modeling layer LY2 is overlaid on the dots DT1 and DT2 of CMYK forming the first modeling layer LY1.

  The dots DT1 to DT3 that have passed the head unit 3 on the upper side are irradiated with ultraviolet rays (UV) from the curing unit 61 from above. As a result, the components contained in the CMYK and CL inks are polymerized, and the dots DT1 to DT3 are cured. In this way, the dots DT1 and DT2 of the first modeling layer LY1 [q] are cured, and the third dots DT3 of the second modeling layer LY2 [q] covering the first modeling layer LY1 [q] are cured.

  After forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q], the control unit 6 determines whether or not all the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are set (S108). When q <Q, the control unit 6 repeats the processes of S102 to S108. For example, when q = 1, the modeling layers LY1 [2] and LY2 [2] are set in the next process of S102. When q = Q, the control unit 6 ends the modeling process. Accordingly, the first modeling layer LY1 [q], the second modeling layer LY2 [q], the first modeling layer LY1 [q + 1], and the second modeling layer LY2 [q + 1] are formed in this order. The finished three-dimensional object Obj is placed on the modeling table 45.

  FIG. 8 schematically shows an example in which the entire first modeling layer LY1 is covered with the second modeling layer LY2. 8 schematically illustrates a three-dimensional object Obj having a cyan area composed of C (cyan) ink on the left half and a yellow area composed of Y (yellow) ink on the right half. Is shown. The middle part of FIG. 8 schematically shows a broken line part BL1 surrounded by a square in the cross section SEC of the three-dimensional object Obj. The lower part of FIG. 8 schematically shows thick line portions of the modeling layers LY1 and LY2.

  As described above, the dots DT1 and DT2 of the first modeling layer LY1 [q] are formed, and the third dots DT3 of the second modeling layer LY2 [q] are formed on the first modeling layer LY1 [q] and cured. When the curing by the ultraviolet irradiation from the unit 61 is repeated, the three-dimensional object Obj is formed. For each scanning of the head unit 3 in the scanning direction D1, the second modeling layer LY2 [q] is formed closer to the curing unit 61 than the first modeling layer LY1 [q]. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 8, the photopolymerization of the UV curable ink dots DT proceeds from the curing unit 61 side (upper side in FIG. 8). At the same time, the polymerized portion is connected to the polymer to increase the strength. Here, since the dot (DT3) of the CL ink does not contain a color material, ultraviolet rays are easily transmitted, and polymerization on the side opposite to the curing unit 61 proceeds rapidly. Since the Y ink dot (DT2) contains a color material that easily absorbs ultraviolet rays, the polymerization on the side opposite to the curing unit 61 is delayed. Although not shown, the same applies to the K ink dot (DT2). On the other hand, since the color material contained in the C ink dot (DT1) hardly absorbs ultraviolet rays (ultraviolet rays are easily transmitted), polymerization on the side opposite to the curing unit 61 proceeds rapidly. Although not shown, the same applies to the M ink dot (DT1). That is, the curing speed of the Y ink and the K ink by the curing unit 61 is different from the curing speed of the C ink and the M ink by the curing unit 61.

  Therefore, in the same first modeling layer LY1, the C ink and Y ink dots are horizontally connected on the curing unit 61 side in the boundary B1 between the C ink dots (DT1) and the Y ink dots (DT2). Although the polymer P3 is formed, the polymer P1 in the C ink and the polymer P2 in the Y ink are not connected on the side opposite to the curing unit 61. However, in the second modeling layer LY2 on the first modeling layer LY1, the polymer P4 of CL penetrates the boundary portion B1 and is connected laterally even on the side opposite to the curing unit 61. Thereby, the second modeling layer LY2 cured by the third liquid LQ3 for bonding joins at least the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 included in the first modeling layer LY1, and the color in the first modeling layer LY1 is increased. The strength reduction of the changing boundary is suppressed. In such a state, the three-dimensional object Obj includes the first modeling layer LY1, the second modeling layer LY2, the first modeling layer LY1, and the second modeling layer LY2.

As mentioned above, this example can provide the technique which can suppress strength reductions, such as a crack of a boundary part from which a color changes in a modeling layer, and peeling.
In addition, since the CL ink forming the second modeling layer LY2 is a liquid that has less or no color material component than the CMYK ink, good color reproduction of the three-dimensional object Obj is maintained. Even when the third dot DT3 of the CL ink in the second modeling layer LY2 is smaller than the dots DT1 and DT2 of the CMYK ink in the first modeling layer LY1, good color reproduction of the three-dimensional object Obj is maintained.
Further, since the head unit 3 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is provided with the third nozzle NZ3 that discharges CL ink on the side D1u that goes back in the scanning direction D1 from the nozzles NZ1 and NZ2 of CMYK, the first unit NZ3 in one scan Both the one modeling layer LY1 and the second modeling layer LY2 can be formed. Therefore, this example can speed up the process of modeling a three-dimensional object.

(4) Second processing example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus:
As shown in FIG. 9, only the portion of the first modeling layer LY1 where the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 are adjacent may be covered with the second modeling layer LY2. On the upper side of FIG. 9, a broken line portion BL1 enclosed by a square in the cross section SEC of the three-dimensional object Obj is schematically shown. The thick line portions of the modeling layers LY1 and LY2 are schematically shown on the lower side of FIG. In this specific example, the directions in which the dots DT1 and DT2 are adjacent to each other are the X direction and the Y direction, and do not include the direction in which the dots are deviated from the X direction and the Y direction.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of a modeling process in which only the adjacent portions of the dots DT1 and DT2 in the first modeling layer LY1 are covered with the second modeling layer LY2. In this process, the control unit 6 that has acquired the modeling layer data FD sets the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] that form the dots DT as in S102 described above (S202). Next, in order to determine the positions (x, y) of the dots DT1 and DT2 on which the third dot DT3 of CL is overlapped, the control unit 6 determines the dot position to be determined from all the dot positions forming the dots DT1 and DT2 ( x, y) is set (S204). For example, if there are Xmax dot positions x in the X direction of 1, 2,..., Xmax, and Ymax dot positions y in the Y direction of 1, 2,. 1 dot position (x, y) that has not been set is set. Further, the control unit 6 determines whether or not the first dot DT1 of C ink or M ink and the second dot DT2 of Y ink or K ink are adjacent to each other in the first modeling layer LY1 [q]. (S206). When the dots DT1 and DT2 are adjacent to each other, the modeling layer data FD [q] is corrected so that the third dot of CL is generated at the determination target dot position (x, y) (S208). If the dots DT1 and DT2 are not adjacent, the process of S208 is not performed. The control unit 6 repeats the processes of S204 to S208 until all the dot positions for forming the dots DT1 and DT2 are set (S210).

  As illustrated on the right side of FIG. 10, adjacent portions of C dots (DT1) and Y dots (DT2), adjacent portions of C dots (DT1) and K dots (DT2), M dots (DT1) and Y dots FD [q] is corrected so that a CL dot (DT3) is generated in the same voxel Vx for the adjacent portion to (DT2) and the adjacent portion of M dots (DT1) and K dots (DT2). .

  After the processing of S204 to S208 is completed for all dots, the control unit 6 moves the modeling table 45 to a position in the Z direction for forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q], as in S104. In this manner, the motor driver 75 is caused to drive the lifting mechanism drive motor 71 (S212).

  After moving the modeling table 45, the control unit 6 changes the position of the head unit 3 so that the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are formed based on the q-th modeling layer data FD [q]. The operation of the mechanism 7 and the curing unit 61 is controlled (S214). For example, this process may be a process of repeatedly ejecting ink droplets (liquid LQ) from the nozzle NZ and feeding the head unit 3 in the X direction while scanning the head unit 3 in the scanning direction D1 (Y direction). it can. Here, CMYK inks (liquids LQ1, LQ2) are ejected from the CMYK nozzles NZ1, NZ2 in accordance with the modeling layer data FD [q] to form dots DT1, DT2 of a predetermined size (for example, large dots). . Further, the CL nozzle (third liquid LQ3) is ejected from the third nozzle NZ3 at the dot position where the CL dot (DT3) is overlapped, and the third dot DT3 of a predetermined size (for example, a small dot) is overlapped with the dots DT1 and DT2. .

  The dots DT1 to DT3 passed by the head unit 3 on the upper side are irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the curing unit 61 from above. As a result, the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 of the first modeling layer LY1 [q] are cured, and the second modeling layer LY2 [q] covering the adjacent portions of the dots DT1 and DT2 in the first modeling layer LY1 [q]. The third dot DT3 of CL is cured.

After forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q], the control unit 6 determines whether or not all the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are set (S216). When q <Q, the control unit 6 repeats the processes of S202 to S214. When q = Q, the control unit 6 ends the modeling process. Thus, the first modeling layer LY1 [q], the second modeling layer LY2 [q], the first modeling layer LY1 [q + 1], and the second modeling layer LY2 [q + 1] are formed in this order. The finished three-dimensional object Obj is placed on the modeling table 45.
With the above processing, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 9, only the adjacent part of the dots DT1 and DT2 in the first modeling layer LY1 is covered with the second modeling layer LY2. The CL third dot DT3 is a small dot, while the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 are large dots. Therefore, even if the third dot DT3 of CL is partially added, the influence on the combined thickness of the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] is small. Of course, immediately after the ink droplets (liquids LQ1 to LQ3) forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] have landed, the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are physically leveled to increase the thickness. A unit for performing a uniform processing may be added to the three-dimensional object forming apparatus 1, and the dots DT1 and DT2 located at positions overlapping with the third dot DT3 of the CL are uniform in thickness by reducing the discharge amount. It may be made to become.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an example of correcting the modeling layer data FD [q]. In the modeling layer data FD [q], the dot positions where the CL dots (DT3) are superimposed on the dots DT1 and DT2 of the first modeling layer LY1 are hatched.
For example, a dot (DT1) of C ink at a dot position (x, y) = (2, 2) is a dot of C ink and M ink (DT1) that is adjacent (in the X direction and the Y direction). It is. Therefore, the CL dot (DT3) is not superimposed on the dot position (2, 2). Since the dots adjacent to the C ink dot (DT1) at the dot position (4, 7) are the Y ink and K ink dots (DT2), the CL dot (DT3) is located at the dot position (4, 7). Are superimposed. Since the dots that are adjacent to the K ink dot (DT2) at the dot position (5, 2) are the C ink and M ink dot (DT1), the CL dot (DT3) is located at the dot position (5, 2). Are superimposed. Since the dots that are adjacent to the K ink dot (DT2) at the dot position (6, 7) are the Y ink and K ink dot (DT2), the CL dot (DT3) at the dot position (6, 7). Cannot be stacked.

  As described above, in this specific example, it is not necessary to cover the portion of the first modeling layer LY1 where the first dot DT1 and the second dot DT2 are not adjacent to each other with the second modeling layer LY2. Therefore, this specific example can provide a technique capable of efficiently suppressing the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.

  In S208, the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 of the voxel Vx on which the CL dots (DT3) are overlaid may be reduced in order to make the thicknesses of the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] substantially constant. For example, when the combined volume of small dots and medium dots is substantially the same as the volume of the large dots, the CL dots are overlapped by making the dots DT1, DT2 of the voxel Vx on which the CL dots cannot be overlapped become large dots. The dots DT1 and DT2 of the voxel Vx may be changed from a large dot to a medium dot.

(5) Third processing example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus:
As illustrated in FIG. 12, the present technology can also be applied to a case where a predetermined liquid (for example, CL ink) is used inside the three-dimensional object Obj. 12 schematically shows a three-dimensional object Obj having C, M, and K regions on the left half and C and Y regions on the right half. On the lower side of FIG. 12, a broken line portion BL1 surrounded by a square in the cross section SEC of the three-dimensional object Obj is schematically shown.

The CL ink for forming the inside of the three-dimensional object Obj shown in FIG. 12 is not the first liquid LQ1, is not the second liquid LQ2, and is not the third liquid LQ3.
In the three-dimensional object Obj shown in FIG. 12, the bottom modeling layer LY1 [1], LY2 [1] and the top modeling layer LY1 [Q], LY2 [Q] are the same as in the second processing example. Only the adjacent part of the dots DT1 and DT2 in the first modeling layer LY1 is covered with the second modeling layer LY2. Also in this case, the three-dimensional object Obj includes the first modeling layer LY1 [1], the second modeling layer LY2 [1], the first modeling layer LY1 [Q], and the second modeling layer LY2 [Q] in this order. Yes. Therefore, this specific example can also provide a technique capable of efficiently suppressing the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer.

(6) Fourth processing example of the three-dimensional object forming apparatus:
The three-dimensional object forming apparatus 1 forms the three-dimensional object Obj by forming the modeling layer LY by solidifying the powder spread in layers with the curable liquid LQ and stacking the formed modeling layer LY. Good. In this case, the three-dimensional object modeling apparatus 1 includes a powder layer forming unit (not shown) for forming a powder layer Pw by spreading powder on the modeling table 45 with a predetermined thickness ΔZ, and a three-dimensional object Obj. It is good to have a powder disposal part (illustration omitted) for discarding the powder (powder other than the powder solidified with the liquid LQ) that does not constitute the three-dimensional object Obj. The powder layer Pw for forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] is referred to as a powder layer Pw [q].

FIG. 13 shows an example of a modeling process using powder. In this process, S106 is replaced with S302 to S304, and S306 is added, compared to the process shown in FIG. FIG. 14 schematically shows a modeling example of the three-dimensional object Obj using powder.
The control unit 6 that has acquired the modeling layer data FD sets the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] that form the dots DT (S102), and forms the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q]. The modeling table 45 is moved to a position in the Z direction (S104). Next, the control unit 6 causes the powder layer forming unit to form the powder layer Pw [q] (S302). 14 shows a state where the powder layer Pw [1] is formed on the modeling table 45 first. The powder layer Pw [q] with q ≧ 2 is formed on the second modeling layer LY2 [q-1].

  After forming the powder layer, the control unit 6 forms the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] on the powder layer Pw [q] based on the q-th modeling layer data FD [q]. The operations of the head unit 3, the position changing mechanism 7 and the curing unit 61 are controlled (S304). For example, this process may be a process of repeatedly ejecting ink droplets (liquid LQ) from the nozzle NZ and feeding the head unit 3 in the X direction while scanning the head unit 3 in the scanning direction D1 (Y direction). it can. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, after the ink droplets from the CMYK nozzles NZ1 and NZ2 land on the powder layer Pw [q] with respect to the same voxel Vx, the ink droplets from the CL third nozzle NZ3 Land on the powder layer Pw [q]. Therefore, as shown in the second row from the top in FIG. 14, the second modeling layer LY2 is formed on the CMYK dots DT1 and DT2 that form the first modeling layer LY1 in the powder layer Pw [q]. The third dot DT3 of CL to be overlapped.

  The dots DT1 to DT3 passed by the head unit 3 on the upper side are irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the curing unit 61 from above. As a result, the components contained in the CMYK and CL inks are polymerized, and the dots DT1 to DT3 soaked in the powder layer Pw [q] are cured. In this way, the dots DT1 and DT2 of the first modeling layer LY1 [q] are cured to solidify the powder layer Pw [q], and the second modeling layer LY2 [q covering the first modeling layer LY1 [q]. ] Of the third dot DT3 is hardened to harden the powder layer Pw [q].

After forming the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] on the powder layer Pw [q], the control unit 6 performs S102 to S104 and S302 until all the modeling layers LY1 [q] and LY2 [q] are set. -S304 is repeated (S108). When q = 2, in S302, as shown in the third row from the top in FIG. 14, the powder layer Pw [2] is formed on the powder layer Pw [1]. When q = Q, including the extra powder, the first modeling layer LY1 [q], the second modeling layer LY2 [q], the first modeling layer LY1 [q + 1], and the second modeling layer The three-dimensional object Obj formed so as to include LY2 [q + 1] in this order is placed on the modeling table 45. In this case, the control unit 6 causes the powder disposal unit to discard the powder that does not form the three-dimensional object Obj (S306), and ends the modeling process.
This specific example can also provide a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in strength such as cracking and peeling at the boundary where the color changes in the modeling layer.

(7) Other variations:
Various modifications can be considered for the present invention.
For example, the present technology can be applied to a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that does not use K liquid. In this case, only Y is an example of the second color. Of course, the present technology can be applied to a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that does not use the C liquid, a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that does not use the M liquid, and the like.
The present technology can also be applied to a three-dimensional object forming apparatus that uses a liquid other than CMYK. For example, the present technology may be applied to the V (violet) liquid as an example of the first liquid together with the C and M liquids. The present technology may be applied to the dark W (white) liquid as an example of the second liquid together with the Y and K liquids. The thin W (white) liquid that is relatively easy to transmit ultraviolet rays may be applied as an example of the first liquid together with the C and M liquids. The first modeling layer may include liquid dots other than the first liquid dots and the second liquid dots.
The third liquid may be a thin W liquid in addition to the CL liquid. Further, a three-dimensional object Obj may be formed by combining a plurality of types of third liquids.
The liquid discharged from the head unit may be a thermoplastic liquid such as a thermoplastic resin. In this case, the head unit may heat the liquid and discharge it in a molten state. Further, the curing unit may be a portion where the dots from the liquid from the head unit are cooled and solidified in the three-dimensional object forming apparatus. In the present technology, “curing” includes “solidification”. Alternatively, the first liquid, the second liquid, and the third liquid may be liquids having different types of curing / solidification processes (or a part thereof) (for example, the first liquid and the second liquid). The liquid is an ultraviolet curable resin, and the third liquid is a thermoplastic resin.

In addition to being directly formed on the first modeling layer LY1 [q-1], the second modeling layer LY2 [q] is formed on the first modeling layer LY1 [q-1] via another modeling layer. It may be formed.
The thickness of the first modeling layer may not be uniform. The thickness of the second modeling layer may not be uniform.

  The curing unit may be mounted on the carriage. In this case, when the curing unit is arranged on the side D1u that goes back in the scanning direction D1 from the nozzles NZ1 to NZ3, the dots DT1 to DT3 from the liquids LQ1 to LQ3 from the head unit 3 can be quickly cured by the curing unit. Therefore, it is preferable.

  The modeling data generation unit that generates the modeling layer data from the model data may not be in the host device but may be in the three-dimensional object modeling device. A model data generation unit that generates model data may also be provided in the three-dimensional object formation apparatus, not in the host device. The display operation unit may not be provided in the host device but may be provided in the three-dimensional object forming device.

(8) Conclusion:
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique and the like that can suppress the strength reduction of the boundary portion where the color changes in the modeling layer according to various aspects. Needless to say, the above-described basic actions and effects can be obtained even with a technique that does not have the constituent requirements according to the dependent claims but includes only the constituent requirements according to the independent claims.
In addition, the configurations disclosed in the above-described examples are mutually replaced or the combination is changed, the known technology and the configurations disclosed in the above-described examples are mutually replaced or the combinations are changed. The configuration described above can also be implemented. The present invention includes these configurations and the like.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Three-dimensional object modeling apparatus, 3 ... Head unit, 6 ... Control part, 9 ... Host apparatus, 30 ... Recording head, 32 ... Nozzle row, 45 ... Modeling table, 48 ... Ink cartridge (liquid cartridge), 61 ... Curing unit , 100 ... Solid object modeling system, B1 ... boundary part, D ... discharge part, D1 ... scanning direction, D2 ... forward direction, D3 ... backward direction, D1u ... backward side, D1d ... opposite side, DT ... dot, DT1 ... first One dot, DT2 ... second dot, DT3 ... third dot, Dat ... model data, FD ... modeling layer data, LQ ... liquid, LQ1 ... first liquid, LQ2 ... second liquid, LQ3 ... third liquid, LY ... Modeling layer, LY1 ... first modeling layer, LY2 ... second modeling layer, NZ ... nozzle, NZ1 ... first nozzle, NZ2 ... second nozzle, NZ3 ... third nozzle, Obj ... three-dimensional object, P1-P4 ... polymer, U1 ... Form the control unit, U2 ... drive unit, Vx ... voxels.

Claims (11)

A head unit that discharges a plurality of types of liquids including a first color of a first color and a second type of liquid that is different from the first color and in which dots are formed. When,
A modeling control unit for controlling the modeling of a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured;
A three-dimensional object shaping apparatus comprising:
The plurality of types of liquids include a third liquid for joining the first dots by the first liquid and the second dots by the second liquid,
The modeling controller
A first modeling layer including at least the first dot and the second dot;
A second modeling layer cured by the third liquid, the second modeling layer joining at least the first dots and the second dots contained in the first modeling layer;
And a three-dimensional object modeling apparatus that controls the modeling of the three-dimensional object so as to include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer in this order. A curing unit that cures the dots of liquid from the head unit;
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a curing rate of the first liquid by the curing unit and a curing rate of the second liquid by the curing unit are different.   The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third liquid is a liquid having fewer color material components than the first liquid and the second liquid.   The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the modeling control unit controls modeling of a three-dimensional object so as to cover the first modeling layer with the second modeling layer.   The said modeling control part controls modeling of a solid object so that it may cover with said 2nd modeling layer in the part which said 1st dot and said 2nd dot adjoined among said 1st modeling layers. Item 4. The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to any one of Items 3 to 3.   The three-dimensional object forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the third liquid dot is smaller than the first dot and the second dot. The modeling control unit has a drive unit that moves the head unit that discharges liquid in a scanning direction relative to a three-dimensional object being modeled,
The head unit is
A first nozzle for discharging the first liquid;
A second nozzle for discharging the second liquid;
A first nozzle, and a third nozzle that is disposed on the side going back in the scanning direction from the second nozzle and discharges the third liquid;
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: The modeling control unit causes the liquid to be ejected from the head unit so that a three-dimensional object is modeled by bidirectional scanning in the scanning direction,
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the third nozzle is disposed on each side of the first nozzle and the second nozzle in the scanning direction. The first liquid includes at least one of cyan ink and magenta ink,
The three-dimensional object modeling apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second liquid includes yellow ink. A head unit that discharges a plurality of types of liquids including a first color of a first color and a second type of liquid that is different from the first color and in which dots are formed. Is a three-dimensional object modeling method for modeling a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured,
A first modeling layer including at least a first dot from the first liquid and a second dot from the second liquid;
A second modeling layer cured with a third liquid for joining the first dot and the second dot, and at least the first dot and the second dot contained in the first modeling layer are joined. A second modeling layer;
And a three-dimensional object modeling method for modeling a three-dimensional object so as to sequentially include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer. A head unit that discharges a plurality of types of liquids including a first color of a first color and a second type of liquid that is different from the first color and in which dots are formed. A control program for a three-dimensional object forming apparatus for controlling the formation of a three-dimensional object by the dots to be cured,
A first modeling layer including at least a first dot from the first liquid and a second dot from the second liquid;
A second modeling layer cured with a third liquid for joining the first dot and the second dot, and at least the first dot and the second dot contained in the first modeling layer are joined. A second modeling layer;
And the computer realizes the function of controlling the modeling of the three-dimensional object so as to sequentially include the first modeling layer, the second modeling layer, the first modeling layer, and the second modeling layer. A control program for a three-dimensional object forming apparatus.

Images