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CLEANING METHOD, CLEANING DEVICE, CLEANING AGENT, AND PRELIMINARY CLEANING AGENT

20230127712 · 2023-04-27

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    A cleaning device 2 is for performing a preliminary cleaning step 110 to a cleaning step 120 of a cleaning method 100, and includes a preliminary cleaning tank 11 containing a preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, a cleaning tank 12 containing a cleaning agent LQ2, an outer container 21 containing the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the cleaning tank 12, a temperature adjustment unit 30 for adjusting the temperature of water WT contained in the outer container 21, an ultrasonic unit 40 for applying an ultrasonic wave to the water WT, or to the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 through the preliminary cleaning tank 11 or the cleaning tank 12, and a controller 80 controlling each of the units.

    Claims

    1. A cleaning agent of an object to which a hydrophobic high-molecular compound is attached, the cleaning agent having fluidity in a range of higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, and the cleaning agent being soluble in water, the cleaning agent containing: a solvent; and a surfactant acting on the high-molecular compound wherein the object includes an ultraviolet curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or a thermoplastic resin, the high-molecular compound includes aliphatic alcohol having 1 to 24 carbon atoms or stearyl alcohol, and the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object.

    2. The cleaning agent according to claim 1, wherein the object contains a model material that is molded by a 3D printer, and the high-molecular compound contains a support material that is molded by a 3D printer.

    3-14. (canceled)

    15. The cleaning agent according to claim 2, wherein the object includes at least one of an crylonitrilebutadienestyrene resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polyphenyl sulfone resin, a polyether imide resin, an acrylic resin, and a polypropylene resin.

    16. The cleaning agent according to claim 15, wherein the solvent includes at least one of water and alcohol, the surfactant includes at least one of an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, a compound having an amino group and a hydrophilic group excluding an amino group, and ethanol amines, the hydrophilic group excluding an amino group includes at least one of a hydroxy group, a carboxy group, a carbonyl group, and a sulfo group, and a concentration of the surfactant is greater than or equal to 1 weight % and less than or equal to 40 weight %.

    17. A preliminary cleaning agent to be in contact with an object to which a hydrophobic high-molecular compound is attached, a preliminary cleaning agent having fluidity in a range of higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, the preliminary cleaning agent containing: a first compound having compatibility with respect to the high-molecular compound, or the first compound and a second compound, wherein the object includes an ultraviolet curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or a thermoplastic resin, the high-molecular compound includes aliphatic alcohol having 1 to 24 carbon atoms or stearyl alcohol, the first compound is fatty acid ester, and the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object.

    18. The preliminary cleaning agent according to claim 17, wherein the second compound is a compound containing a component common to the high-molecular compound, or solid paraffin.

    19. A cleaning device of an object to which a high-molecular compound is attached, the cleaning device comprising: a cleaning container containing a cleaning liquid; a cleaning liquid temperature adjustment unit adjusting a temperature of the cleaning liquid contained in the cleaning container; and a controller controlling each of the units, the cleaning liquid containing: a solvent; and a surfactant acting on the high-molecular compound, wherein in the cleaning container, the object is in contact with the cleaning liquid, the controller sets the temperature of the cleaning liquid to be higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, and the temperature of the rinsing liquid to be higher than or equal to the melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than the melting point of the object, the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object, the object contains a model material that is molded by a 3D printer, the high-molecular compound contains a support material that is molded by a 3D printer, and the cleaning liquid being soluble in water.

    20. A cleaning device of an object to which a high-molecular compound is attached, the cleaning device comprising: a preliminary cleaning container containing a preliminary cleaning liquid; a preliminary cleaning liquid temperature adjustment unit adjusting a temperature of the preliminary cleaning liquid contained in the preliminary cleaning container; and a controller controlling each of the units; wherein in the preliminary cleaning container, the object is in contact with the preliminary cleaning liquid, the controller sets the temperature of the preliminary cleaning liquid to be higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, the preliminary cleaning liquid is liquid in in the preliminary cleaning container, the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object, the object contains a model material that is molded by a 3D printer, and the high-molecular compound contains a support material that is molded by a 3D printer.

    21. The cleaning device according to claim 20, wherein the preliminary cleaning liquid containing: a first compound having compatibility with respect to the high-molecular compound, or the first compound and a second compound, the first compound is fatty acid ester, and the second compound is a compound containing a component common to the high-molecular compound, or solid paraffin.

    22. The cleaning device according to claim 19, further comprising: a rinsing container containing a rinsing liquid having compatibility with respect to the cleaning liquid; and a rinsing liquid temperature adjustment unit adjusting a temperature of the rinsing liquid contained in the rinsing container, wherein in the rinsing container, the object is in contact with the rinsing liquid, and the controller sets the temperature of the rinsing liquid to be higher than or equal to the melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than the melting point of the object.

    23. The cleaning device according to claim 19, further comprising: a sealing unit sealing the cleaning container; and a cleaning side decompression unit capable of reducing a pressure in the container sealed by the sealing unit.

    24. The cleaning device according to claim 20, further comprising: a sealing unit sealing the preliminary cleaning container; and a cleaning side decompression unit capable of reducing a pressure in the container sealed by the sealing unit.

    25. A cleaning device of an object to which a high-molecular compound is attached, the cleaning device comprising: a cleaning container containing a cleaning liquid or a preliminary cleaning liquid; a sealing unit sealing the cleaning container; and a cleaning side decompression unit capable of reducing a pressure in the container sealed by the sealing unit, wherein the object contains a model material that is molded by a 3D printer, and the high-molecular compound contains a support material that is molded by a 3D printer.

    26. The cleaning device according to claim 25, further comprising: a temperature adjustment unit adjusting a temperature of the cleaning liquid in the cleaning container, or a temperature of the cleaning preliminary liquid in the preliminary cleaning container; and a controller controlling each of the units, wherein the controller sets the temperature of the cleaning liquid or the preliminary cleaning liquid to be higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, and the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object.

    27. The cleaning device according to claim 25, wherein the controller sets the cleaning liquid, or the preliminary cleaning liquid in the container to be in a boiling state.

    28. A cleaning method of an object to which a high-molecular compound is attached, the cleaning method comprising: a cleaning step of bringing the cleaning liquid into contact with the object; and a rinsing step of rinsing the object by using a rinsing liquid having compatibility with respect to the cleaning liquid, after the cleaning step, the cleaning liquid containing: a solvent; and a surfactant acting on the high-molecular compound, wherein a temperature of the cleaning liquid is higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, and a temperature of the rinsing liquid is higher than or equal to the melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than the melting point of the object, the cleaning liquid being soluble in water, a temperature of the rinsing liquid is higher than or equal to the melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than the melting point of the object, the object includes an ultraviolet curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or a thermoplastic resin, the high-molecular compound includes aliphatic alcohol having 1 to 24 carbon atoms or stearyl alcohol, and the melting point of the high-molecular compound is lower than the melting point of the object.

    29. The cleaning method according to claim 28, wherein the cleaning step is performed in an environment lower than an atmospheric pressure.

    30. The cleaning method according to claim 28, further comprising: a preliminary cleaning step of bringing a preliminary cleaning liquid into contact with the object, before the cleaning step, the preliminary cleaning liquid containing: a first compound having compatibility with respect to the high-molecular compound, or the first compound and a second compound, wherein a temperature of the preliminary cleaning liquid is higher than or equal to a melting point of the high-molecular compound and lower than a melting point of the object, and the first compound is fatty acid ester.

    31. The cleaning method according to claim 30, wherein the second compound is a compound containing a component common to the high-molecular compound, or solid paraffin.

    32. The cleaning method according to claim 31, wherein the preliminary cleaning step is performed in an environment lower than an atmospheric pressure.

    Description

    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

    [0026] FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of a cleaning method;

    [0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an outline of a cleaning device;

    [0028] FIG. 3A is a sectional view illustrating an outline of the cleaning device;

    [0029] FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating an outline of the cleaning device;

    [0030] FIG. 4A is a sectional view illustrating an outline of the cleaning device in the preliminary cleaning step of the cleaning method;

    [0031] FIG. 4B is a sectional view illustrating an outline of the cleaning device in the preliminary cleaning step of the cleaning method;

    [0032] FIG. 4C is a sectional view illustrating an outline of the cleaning device in the cleaning step of the cleaning method;

    [0033] FIG. 4D is a perspective view illustrating an outline of the cleaning device in the rinsing step of the cleaning method;

    [0034] FIG. 5A is a partial sectional view illustrating an outline of a sealing unit that can be applied to the cleaning device;

    [0035] FIG. 5B is a partial sectional view illustrating an outline of a sealing unit that can be applied to the cleaning device; and

    [0036] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating connection between a controller and each unit.

    MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

    [0037] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a cleaning method 100 is for removing a support material SP (a high-molecular compound) from a model material MD (an object) to which the support material SP is attached, and includes a preliminary cleaning step 110 of dipping the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached in a preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, a cleaning step 120 of dipping the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached in a cleaning agent LQ2, after the preliminary cleaning step 110, and a rinsing step 130 of dipping the model material MD in water (a rinsing liquid), after the cleaning step 120. Note that, as necessary, a coating step 140 of coating the model material MD with a coating liquid LQ3 may be performed after the rinsing step 130.

    [0038] The model material MD is a material that is used in a fused deposition modeling method, an inkjet method, or the like, and examples thereof include an ultraviolet curable resin, a thermosetting resin, a thermoplastic resin, and the like. More specifically, examples of the model material MD include an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin, a polycarbonate resin, a polyphenyl sulfone resin, a polyether imide resin, an acrylic resin, a polypropylene resin, and the like. In addition, examples of a commercially available product thereof include VisiJet (Registered Trademark, the same applies to the followings) MX, VisiJet EX200, VisiJet SR200, VisiJet HR200, VisiJet DP200, VisiJet CPX200, and VisiJet M2R-CL (manufactured by 3D SYSTEMS JAPAN K.K.), and the like.

    [0039] In addition, AR-G1L (manufactured by KEYENCE CORPORATION) can also be used as the model material MD. [0040] Components of AR-G1L: [0041] Silicone 65 weight % [0042] Acrylic Monomer 30 to 35 weight % [0043] Organophosphorus Compound 1 to 5 weight % [0044] Phenone Compound 1 to 5 weight %

    [0045] Examples of the support material SP include aliphatic alcohol. Aliphatic alcohol having 1 to 24 carbon atoms is preferable as the aliphatic alcohol. Examples of the aliphatic alcohol include stearyl alcohol (CAS No. 112-95-5) and the like. Examples of a commercially available product thereof include VisiJet200 (manufactured by 3D SYSTEMS JAPAN K.K.) and the like.

    [0046] In addition, AR-S1 (manufactured by KEYENCE CORPORATION) can also be used as the support material SP. [0047] Components of AR-S1:

    TABLE-US-00001 Acrylic Monomer 10 to 25 weight % Polypropylene Glycol 70 to 90 weight % Photopolymerization Initiater  1 to 5 weight % Density of Support Material SP: 1.03 (g/cm.sup.3)

    [0048] It is preferable that the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 has hydrophobicity as a whole and easily dissolves the support material SP. Examples of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 include fatty acid ester that is used as base oil, and among them, vegetable oil-derived fatty acid ester is preferable. It is preferable that a melting point of the fatty acid ester is lower than a melting point of the support material SP.

    [0049] Note that, a measurement method of the melting point is based on JIS K 0064-1992 (the same applies to the followings).

    [0050] In addition, it is preferable that the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is solidified (gelled) in a comparatively low temperature range (for example, lower than the melting point of the support material SP). Accordingly, in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, another compound may be mixed in addition to the fatty acid ester. That is, it is preferable that a melting point or a softening temperature of a mixture containing the fatty acid ester and the another compound is higher than that of the fatty acid ester. Accordingly, the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is liquefied or softened by heating when in use, whereas the fluidity disappears when not in use, and thus, the handling thereof is excellent. The concentration of the fatty acid ester in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and for example, the lower limit thereof is preferably greater than or equal to 30 weight %, more preferably greater than or equal to 50 weight %, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 80 weight %. Examples of the another compound include solid paraffin (CAS No. 8002-74-2, English Name: Paraffin wax), the same compound as the support material SP, a compound containing a component common to the support material SP, and the like, and such compounds may be independently used or may be used in combination. An upper limit of the concentration of the solid paraffin is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and for example, is 80 weight %, preferably 70 weight %, and more preferably 60 weight %. Therefore, the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 that was used in the preliminary cleaning step 110 in the past can be used again in the preliminary cleaning step 110, within a range in which the effect of the invention can be obtained.

    [0051] Note that, a measurement method of the softening temperature is based on JIS K 7206-1991 (the same applies to the followings).

    [0052] The cleaning agent LQ2 is soluble in water as a whole, and contains a solvent and a surfactant. The cleaning agent LQ2, as necessary, may contain additives.

    [0053] Water or alcohol is preferable as the solvent. It is preferable that the water is distilled water. For example, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, ethylene glycol, glycerin, or the like can be applied as the alcohol. The concentration of the solvent is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 10 weight % and less than or equal to 99 weight %, more preferably greater than or equal to 50 weight % and less than or equal to 99 weight %, and even more preferably greater than or equal to 60 weight % and less than or equal to 99 weight %.

    [0054] The surfactant acts on the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD. Examples of the surfactant include an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, or the like.

    [0055] Examples of the anionic surfactant include a sodium salt or a potassium salt of a fatty acid, an alkyl benzene sulfonate, a higher alcohol sulfuric ester salt, a polyoxyalkylene monoalkyl ether salt, α-sulfofatty acid ester, an α-olefin sulfonate, a monoalkyl phosphoric ester salt, an alkane sulfonate, and the like.

    [0056] Examples of the cationic surfactant include an alkyl trimethyl ammonium salt, a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt, an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium salt, an amine salt (for example, an N-methyl bishydroxyethyl amine fatty acid ester hydrochloride), and the like.

    [0057] Examples of the amphoteric surfactant include an alkyl aminofatty acid salt, alkyl betaine, alkyl amine oxide, and the like.

    [0058] Examples of the nonionic surfactant include polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenol ether, alkyl glucoside, polyoxyethylene fatty acid ester, sucrose fatty acid ester, sorbitan fatty acid ester, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, fatty acid alkanol amide, and the like.

    [0059] It is preferable to have an amino group and a hydrophilic group (excluding an amino group), as a specific example of the surfactant. Examples of the hydrophilic group (excluding an amino group) include a hydroxy group, a carboxy group, a carbonyl group, a sulfo group, and the like. Specific examples thereof include ethanol amines (monoethanol amine, diethanol amine, or triethanol amine) and the like. In addition, polyoxyalkylene monoalkyl ether (CAS No. 77029-64-2) or the like can also be used.

    [0060] The concentration of the surfactant is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 1 weight % and less than or equal to 40 weight %, more preferably greater than or equal to 1 weight % and less than or equal to 30 weight %, and even more preferably greater than or equal to 1 weight % and less than or equal to 25 weight %.

    [0061] Examples of the additive include a metal ion builder, an alkali builder, a dispersionre-contamination prevention builder, an enzyme, a fluorescent brightening agent, a bleaching agent, a foam control agent, other adjuvants, and the like, for example, include sodium xylene sulfonate (CAS No. 1300-72-7), sodium silicate (CAS No. 6834-92-0), and the like. The concentration of the additive is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 1 weight % and less than or equal to 20 weight %.

    [0062] The coating liquid LQ3 is not limited insofar as the coating liquid is capable of forming a coating layer having light transmissivity with respect to the surface of the model material MD. It is preferable to include alcohol having an amino group as the coating liquid LQ3. Examples of the alcohol having an amino group include ethanol amines (monoethanol amine (CAS 141-43-5), diethanol amine (CAS 111-42-2), triethanol amine (CAS 102-71-6)), and the like. Note that, an aqueous solution of the ethanol amines is preferable. The concentration of the ethanol amines is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 10 weight % and less than or equal to 40 weight %.

    [0063] Note that, the coating liquid LQ3 may contain a component common to the cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0064] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3A and 3B, a cleaning device 2 is for performing the preliminary cleaning step 110 to the cleaning step 120 of the cleaning method 100, and includes a preliminary cleaning tank 11 containing the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, a cleaning tank 12 containing the cleaning agent LQ2, an outer container 21 containing the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the cleaning tank 12, a temperature adjustment unit 30 for adjusting the temperature of water WT contained in the outer container 21, an ultrasonic unit 40 for applying an ultrasonic wave to the water WT, or to the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 through the preliminary cleaning tank 11 or the cleaning tank 12, and a controller 80 controlling each of the units.

    [0065] Both of the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the cleaning tank 12 contain a material having excellent thermal conductivity (for example, a metal or the like). The outer container 21 contains the water WT. The middle portion to the bottom portion of the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the cleaning tank 12 are dipped in the water WT. An engagement portion 12K is provided on an opening edge of the cleaning tank 12. The engagement portion 12K is engaged with an opening edge of the outer container 21, and thus, the cleaning tank 12 is capable of maintaining a state of being separated from the bottom of the outer container 21. An engagement portion 11K is provided on an opening edge of the preliminary cleaning tank 11. The engagement portion 11K is engaged with the opening edge of the cleaning tank 12, and thus, the preliminary cleaning tank 11 is capable of maintaining a state of being separated from the bottom of the outer container 21. Note that, the engagement portion 11K may be engaged with the opening edge of the outer container 21.

    [0066] The engagement portion 11K of the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the engagement portion 12K of the cleaning tank 12 also function as a cover for preventing impurities such as the first liquid LQ1 and the second liquid LQ2 from being mixed in the water WT.

    [0067] The temperature adjustment unit 30 includes a temperature sensor 31 detecting the temperature of the water WT contained in the outer container 21, and a heater 32 heating the water WT contained in the outer container 21.

    [0068] The ultrasonic unit 40 includes a control box 41 disposed outside the outer container 21, an oscillator 42 disposed in the water WT of the outer container 21, and a cable 43 connecting the control box 41 and the oscillator 42. The frequency of the ultrasonic wave of the ultrasonic unit 40 is not particularly limited, and for example, is preferably greater than or equal to 30 Hz and less than or equal to 60 Hz. An application time of the ultrasonic wave is not also particularly limited.

    [0069] A cover 21S for covering the heater is provided in the outer container 21. The cover 21S partitions the outer container 21 other than the bottom portion. Accordingly, the heat from the heater 32 is transferred to the preliminary cleaning agent or the cleaning agent, and a failure due to the application of an ultrasonic wave with respect to the heater 32 is suppressed.

    [0070] The controller 80 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 31, the heater 32, the control box 41, or the like.

    [0071] Next, the cleaning method 100 will be described by using FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D.

    [0072] (Preliminary Cleaning Step 110)

    [0073] The temperature adjustment unit 30 adjusts the temperature of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 in a range of lower than the melting point of the model material and higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material, under the control of the controller 80. At this time, both of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 and the cleaning agent LQ2 are a liquid and have fluidity. Further, power is applied to the ultrasonic unit 40, and an ultrasonic wave is applied to the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0074] Next, the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached is put in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 (FIG. 4A). Since the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 contains a component having compatibility with respect to the support material SP, most of the support material SP is dissolved in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 (FIG. 4B). After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the model material MD is pulled up from the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. As described above, most of the support material SP is removed from the model material MD by the action of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, the temperature, or the ultrasonic wave.

    [0075] When the model material MD is pulled up from the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, a part of the support material SP remains in the model material MD.

    [0076] (Cleaning Step 120)

    [0077] Next, the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached is put in the liquid cleaning liquid LQ2 (FIG. 4C). Most of the remaining support material SP is removed from the model material MD by the action of the component (in particular, the surfactant) of the cleaning liquid LQ2 to exist in the cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0078] When the model material MD is pulled up from the cleaning agent LQ2, almost no support material SP remains in the model material MD. At this time, the support material SP remaining in the model material MD is easily washed out with water, an aqueous solution, or the like, by the action of the surfactant contained in the cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0079] (Rinsing Step 130)

    [0080] The model material MD pulled up from the cleaning agent LQ2 is put in water (FIG. 4D). The temperature of the water may be a room temperature, and is more preferably lower than the melting point of the model material and higher than the melting point of the support material SP. It is preferable that the water is distilled water.

    [0081] Note that, in the rinsing step 130, another tank containing hot water of a predetermined temperature may be put in the outer container 21 and an ultrasonic wave may be applied in a state where the model material MD is dipped in the hot water. In addition, in the rinsing step 130, an aqueous solution in which another compound (for example, alcohol or the like) is dissolved in distilled water, an aqueous solution in which another compound is dispersed in distilled water, or the like may be used instead of the distilled water. That is, it is preferable that the rinsing liquid used in the rinsing step 130 has compatibility with respect to the cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0082] (130140)

    [0083] As necessary, the model material MD is put in the coating liquid LQ3. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the model material MD is pulled up from the coating liquid LQ3. Accordingly, the surface layer of the model material MD is coated with the coating liquid LQ3. After that, the coating layer is formed on the surface layer of the model material MD by the elapse of a predetermined period of time.

    [0084] As described above, according to the invention, since a liquid material such as the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 is used, even in a case where the model material MD has an intricate shape, the liquid reaches the depth of the shape, and thus, the support material SP in the depth of the shape can be removed.

    [0085] Here, a case is considered in which the cleaning step 120 is performed with respect to the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached without performing the preliminary cleaning step 110. In the cleaning step 120, in a case where the cleaning agent LQ2 is brought into contact with the model material MD, the support material SP attached to the model material MD can be removed by the action of the surfactant contained in the cleaning agent LQ2. However, since the degree of removing action of the support material SP according to the surfactant is greatly affected by the amount of surfactant, in a case where the cleaning step 120 is performed with respect to the model material MD to which a large amount of the support material SP is attached without performing the preliminary cleaning step 110, a large amount of the support material SP may be contained in the cleaning agent LQ2. In the cleaning agent LQ2 in such a state, the removing action of the support material SP can hardly be expected.

    [0086] It can be assumed that a decrease in the removing action of the support material SP is caused by a decrease in the removing action due to a decrease in the concentration of the cleaning agent LQ2 in the cleaning tank 12, and the improvement of a viscosity due to an increase in the concentration of the support material SP in the cleaning tank 12.

    [0087] Accordingly, in order to maintain the removing action of the support material SP in the cleaning step 120, it is necessary to add a new cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0088] In the invention, the support material SP is brought into contact with the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 that is capable of dissolving the support material, before the support material SP is brought into contact with the cleaning agent LQ2 that is capable of removing the support material. Accordingly, the amount of support material SP that is attached to the model material MD can be minimized at a start point of the cleaning step 120. Accordingly, a removing effect of the support material SP according to the cleaning agent LQ2 in the cleaning step 120 can be maintained. In addition, a removing action of the support material SP according to the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is an action according to compatibility with respect to the support material SP, but not the action of the surfactant such as the cleaning agent LQ2. Accordingly, even in a case where a large amount of support material SP remains in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1, the removing action of the support material SP can be maintained. As described above, the removing action of the support material SP can be maintained by combining the preliminary cleaning step 110 and the cleaning step 120.

    [0089] Further, when the model material MD is pulled up from the cleaning agent LQ2, almost no support material SP remains in the model material MD. At this time, the support material SP remaining in the model material MD is easily washed out with water, an aqueous solution, or the like, by the action of the surfactant contained in the cleaning agent LQ2. Accordingly, the support material SP can be removed from the model material MD by performing the rinsing step 130 after the cleaning step 120.

    [0090] In addition, a mixture of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 and the support material SP may have fluidity in the preliminary cleaning step 110, and it is preferable that the fluidity is lost in a low temperature range (for example, a room temperature). Accordingly, the mixture is easily handled as a waste material. Further, such a mixture can also be used as a general waste material, or can also be used as fuel.

    [0091] Note that, a layer containing the mixture of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 and the support material SP is formed on the surface of the model material MD pulled up from the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. In a case where such a model material MD is at a temperature lower than the melting point of the support material SP (for example, a normal temperature), the layer is solidified (gelled). In addition, the layer is dissolved at a temperature higher than the melting point of the support material SP. Therefore, the layer containing the mixture of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 and the support material SP can also be used as a protective layer of the model material.

    [0092] On the other hand, the mixture of the cleaning agent LQ2 and the support material SP is a liquid in the cleaning step 120, but is soluble in water, and thus, is comparatively safe. Such a mixture is easily managed as a waste material. In addition, the mixture of the cleaning agent LQ2 and the support material SP may have fluidity in the cleaning step 120, and it is preferable that the fluidity is lost in a low temperature range (for example, a room temperature).

    [0093] In addition, the model material MD may be weak against heat, in accordance with the material thereof. In such a case, the model material MD may be deformed in accordance with a temperature increase. In such a case, in a case where the model material MD is heated in the air, the model material is easily deformed by the own weight. According to the invention, the model material MD is heated in solution, and thus, the deformation of the model material due to the own weight is suppressed by a buoyant force, compared to a case where the model material is heated in the air.

    [0094] In the case of imparting glossiness to the model material MD after the rinsing step 130, the coating step 140 is performed, and the coating layer having light transmissivity is formed by the coating liquid LQ3, and thus, the glossiness increases, and the appearance is improved.

    [0095] The reason for an increase in the glossiness according to the coating layer and the improvement of the appearance is assumed as follows. A lamination trace at the modeling may remain in the shape of a stripe, on the surface of the model material MD. In the case of removing the support material SP, the glossiness is lost by reflection due to the lamination trace at the modeling, and the appearance becomes cloudy. On the other hand, in a case where the coating layer is formed on the lamination trace at the modeling, reflection occurs on the coating layer, and thus, the glossiness increases, and the appearance is improved.

    [0096] In the embodiment described above, in the cleaning method 100, the coating step 140 is performed, but the invention is not limited thereto. In the case of trying not to allow impurities (the support material SP, the coating layer of the coating liquid LQ3, or the like) to remain on the surface of the model material MD or in a case where the appearance is not required, the coating step 140 may be omitted.

    [0097] Note that, it is preferable that the density of the solvent of the cleaning agent LQ2 is different from the density of the support material SP. For example, in a case where the density of the support material SP is greater than the density of the solvent of the cleaning agent LQ2, in a second dipping step, the support material SP is separated from the cleaning agent LQ2 by a density difference, and sinks into the bottom of the cleaning tank 12. Accordingly, in a case where the model material MD is tried to be pulled out from the cleaning agent LQ2, the removed support material SP is less likely to be attached again to the model material MD.

    [0098] In the embodiment described above, in the cleaning method 100, the preliminary cleaning step 110 is performed, but the invention is not limited thereto. In a case where an attachment amount of the support material that is attached to the model material MD is small, the preliminary cleaning step 110 may be omitted.

    [0099] In the embodiment described above, the cleaning step 120 is performed in a state in which the opening of the preliminary cleaning tank 11 or the cleaning tank 12 is released with respect to the atmospheric air, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the cleaning step 120 may be performed in a state in which each opening is sealed with respect to the atmospheric air.

    [0100] The cleaning device 2 may include a sealing unit 60 containing the preliminary cleaning tank 11 or the cleaning tank 12, a pump 70 (a decompression unit) reducing the pressure of the internal space of the sealing unit 60, and a temperature adjustment unit 75, in addition to the configuration described above (FIG. 5A).

    [0101] The sealing unit 60 includes a containing tool 61, a lid 62 capable of closing an opening of the containing tool 61, a packing 63 provided on the lid 62, and a release valve 64. The containing tool 61 includes a containing space 61KX that is capable of containing the preliminary cleaning tank 11 or the cleaning tank 12. An opening of the containing space 61KX is opened upward. In a case where the opening of the containing space 61KX is closed by using the lid 62, the containing space 61KX is sealed by the packing 63 (FIG. 5B). The release valve 64 can be freely switched between an open state in which the containing space 61KX is communicated with the external space and a closed state in which the containing space 61KX and the external space are not connected, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0102] The pump 70 includes a pump main body 71 provided with an air inlet 71A and an air outlet 71B, piping 72 communicating the air inlet 71A with the containing space 61KX, and a pressure meter 73 measuring the pressure of the containing space 61KX. The controller 80 drives the pump main body 71 while reading a measured value of the pressure meter 73. Accordingly, the pump 70 is capable of adjusting the internal pressure of the containing space 61KX to a predetermined range, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0103] The temperature adjustment unit 75 includes a temperature sensor 75S detecting each temperature of the cleaning agents LQ1 to LQ2 contained in the preliminary cleaning tank 11 and the cleaning tank 12, respectively, and an induction heating-type heater 75H provided on the bottom surface inside the containing tool 61.

    [0104] The temperature adjustment unit 75 adjusts the temperature of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 to a range of lower than the melting point of the model material and higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material, under the control of the controller 80. At this time, both of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 and the cleaning agent LQ2 are a liquid.

    [0105] Note that, as necessary, an ultrasonic wave may be applied to the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 or the cleaning agent LQ2 by using the ultrasonic unit 40 (FIG. 3A), under the control of the controller 80.

    [0106] Next, a method for using the sealing unit 60 will be described.

    [0107] (Preliminary Cleaning Step 110)

    [0108] As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the preliminary cleaning tank 11 is disposed in the containing space 61KX. The model material MD to which the support material SP is attached is put in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. The temperature adjustment unit 75 adjusts the temperature of the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 to a range lower than the melting point of the model material MD and higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material SP, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0109] Next, the release valve 64 is closed. In the case of closing the opening of the containing space 61KX by using the lid 62, the containing space 61KX becomes a sealing space by the packing 63 (FIG. 5B). The pump 70 adjusts the internal pressure of the containing space 61KX to a predetermined range, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0110] Since the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 contains the component having compatibility with respect to the support material SP, most of the support material SP is dissolved in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. Further, the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached is placed in an environment in which the pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure, and thus, gas existing in the support material SP or in a boundary portion between the model material MD and the support material SP is moved to the outside. As a result of such air exchange, the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is performed. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the pump 70 is stopped, the release valve 64 is opened, the lid 62 is opened, and the model material MD from the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is pulled up.

    [0111] (Cleaning Step 120)

    [0112] Next, the model material MD pulled up from the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 is put in the cleaning liquid LQ2. The temperature adjustment unit 75 adjusts the temperature of the cleaning agent LQ2 to a range of lower than the melting point of the model material MD and higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material SP, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0113] Next, in a case where the release valve 64 is closed, and the opening of the containing space 61KX is closed by using the lid 62, the containing space 61KX becomes the sealing space by the packing 63 (FIG. 5B). The pump 70 adjusts the internal pressure of the containing space 61KX to a predetermined range, under the control of the controller 80.

    [0114] The remaining support material SP is removed from the model material MD to exist in the cleaning agent LQ2, by the action of the surfactant of the cleaning liquid LQ2. Further, the model material MD to which the support material SP is attached is disposed in an environment in which the pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure, and thus, the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is performed. As a result thereof, a small amount of the support material SP remains in the model material MD. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the pump 70 is stopped, the release valve 64 is opened, the lid 62 is opened, and the model material MD is pulled up from the cleaning agent LQ2.

    [0115] Here, the factor that the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is accelerated in the case of performing the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 in an environment in which the pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure is assumed as follows.

    [0116] A constant amount of gas exists in the support material SP or in the boundary portion between the model material MD and the support material SP, at a modeling completion point of the model material MD. However, even in the case of performing the preliminary cleaning step 110 or cleaning step 120 in an environment of approximately the same air pressure identical as that at the modeling, the gas still exists inside. However, in the case of performing the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 in an environment in which the pressure is lower than that at the modeling, by using the pump 70, the gas easily flies out to the external space by an air pressure difference. As a result of such air exchange, the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is accelerated.

    [0117] Note that, it is preferable that the pump 70 reduces the internal pressure of the containing space 61KX to the extent that the cleaning liquid LQ2 is in a boiling state. The air exchange is accelerated by a boiling phenomenon, and thus, the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is performed.

    [0118] (Rinsing Step 130)

    [0119] After that, the model material MD pulled up from the cleaning agent LQ2 is put in a beaker containing hot water to perform the rinsing step 130. It is preferable that the temperature of the hot water is adjusted to a range of lower than the melting point of the model material MD and higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material SP. An ultrasonic wave may be applied to the hot water contained in the beaker by driving the ultrasonic unit 40.

    [0120] As described above, by performing the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 in an environment in which the pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure, the removal of the support material SP from the model material MD is accelerated. In order to obtain the removing action of the support material SP from the model material MD, a higher temperature is required, but the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 is performed in an environment of a lower pressure, and thus, it is possible to obtain the removing action of the support material SP from the model material MD without forming an environment of a higher temperature. Therefore, in a case where the material of the model material MD is weak against heat, the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 is performed in an environment in which the pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure, and thus, it is possible to obtaining the removing action of the support material SP while avoiding thermal deformation.

    [0121] In an environment released to the external space, such as the cleaning device 2 illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B, the preliminary cleaning step 110 or the cleaning step 120 may be performed while driving the ultrasonic unit 40, between the preliminary cleaning step 110 in the sealing unit 60 and the cleaning step 120 in the sealing unit 60 or after the cleaning step 120 in the sealing unit 60.

    [0122] In addition, the preliminary cleaning step 110 may be omitted in accordance with a desired cleaning degree.

    [0123] In the embodiment described above, the invention is used in the removal of the support material SP, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the invention may be applied to the removal of a buffing compound (a metal or a non-ferrous mirror polishing agent) in which chromium oxide is kneaded into an oil and fat material (a paraffin-based wax).

    [0124] In the embodiment described above, the material that is used in the fused deposition modeling method, the inkjet method, or the like is used as the model material MD, but the invention is not limited thereto. A metal (for example, iron or non-ferrous metals) work may be used as the model material MD. The invention may be used for removing the support material attached to the metal work, or may be used for the following objects.

    [0125] However, since cutting oil is attached to the metal work after cutting machining, it is necessary to remove the cutting oil in the case of using the metal work in such a state. Examples of the cutting oil that can be removed include oil-based cutting oil or water-soluble cutting oil. In addition, since the metal work such as iron is weak against rust, it is necessary to coat the metal work with rust-proof oil at transportation or storage.

    [0126] In such a case, a part of the cleaning method 100 may be performed with respect to the metal work. In the preliminary cleaning step 110, the metal work is dipped in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. Accordingly, most of the oil-based cutting oil attached to the metal work is dissolved in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1. As a result thereof, most of the oil-based cutting oil can be removed from the metal work.

    [0127] Next, in the cleaning step 120, the metal work is dipped in the cleaning agent LQ2. Accordingly, the coating layer of the cleaning agent LQ2 is formed on the surface of the metal work. Such a coating layer functions as a rust-proof layer. Note that, the rinsing step 130 or the coating step 140 may not be performed after the cleaning step 120.

    [0128] The same cleaning agent used for dissolving the support material SP can be applied as the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 for removing the oil-based cutting oil.

    [0129] The cleaning agent LQ2 for forming the rust-proof layer is soluble in water as a whole, and contains a solvent and a rust-proof component.

    [0130] Water or alcohol is preferable as the solvent. The concentration of the solvent is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 5 weight % and less than or equal to 100 weight %, more preferably greater than or equal to 50 weight % and less than or equal to 100 weight %, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 80 weight % and less than or equal to 100 weight %.

    [0131] It is preferable to have an amino group and a hydrophilic group (excluding an amino group), as the rust-proof component. Examples of the hydrophilic group (excluding an amino group) include a hydroxy group, a carboxy group, a carbonyl group, a sulfo group, and the like. Specific examples thereof include ethanol amines (monoethanol amine, diethanol amine, or triethanol amine) and the like. The concentration of the cleaning component is not particularly limited insofar as the effect of the invention can be obtained, and is preferably greater than or equal to 10 weight % and less than or equal to 40 weight %.

    [0132] In the embodiment described above, the removal of the cutting oil from the metal work has been described, but the invention is not limited thereto. The invention can also be applied to grease in addition to the cutting oil.

    Examples

    [0133] Tests A1 to A25 were performed.

    [0134] (Test A1)

    [0135] A three-dimensional modeled object X was formed from the model material MD and the support material SP by using a 3D printer (VisiJet series, manufactured by 3D Systems Corporation). The model material MD in the three-dimensional modeled object X is in a rectangular parallelepiped shape (Length: 50 mm, Breadth: 30 mm, Height: 30 mm). In the model material MD in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, five linear through holes (Diameter: 0.5 mm, Length: 30 mm) passing through the model material MD from the top surface toward the bottom surface and five curved through hole (Diameter: 0.5 mm) passing through the model material MD from the top surface toward the lateral surface were formed. The support material SP was attached to each of the surfaces of the model material MD with a uniform thickness (approximately 10 to 15 mm), and all of the through holes (the linear through holes and the curved through holes) were filled with the support material.

    [0136] VisiJet Crystal EX200 Plastic Material (manufactured by 3D SYSTEMS JAPAN K.K.) was used as the model material MD.

    [0137] Components of Model Material MD:

    TABLE-US-00002 Urethane Acrylate Oligomer  20 to 40 weight % Ethoxylated Bisphenol A Diacrylate  15 to 35 weight % (CAS No. 64401-02-01) Tripropylene Glycol Acrylate   1.5 to 3 weight % (CAS No. 42978-66-5)

    [0138] VisiJet200 (manufactured by 3D SYSTEMS JAPAN K.K.) was used as the support material SP.

    [0139] Components of Support Material SP: hydroxylated wax (CAS No. 112-95-5)

    [0140] Melting Point of Support Material SP: 55 to 65° C. Density of Support Material SP: 0.85 to 0.91 (g/cm.sup.3)

    [0141] The cleaning method 100 was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X.

    [0142] The components of the used preliminary cleaning agent are as follows.

    TABLE-US-00003 Fatty Acid Ester 70 weight % Solid Paraffin (CAS No. 8002-74-2) 30 weight %

    [0143] The components of the used cleaning agent are as follows.

    TABLE-US-00004 Water 80 weight % Triethanol Amine (CAS No. 102-71-6) 20 weight %

    [0144] (Preliminary Cleaning Step)

    [0145] In the sealing unit 60 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the preliminary cleaning step was performed. A temperature T1 of the preliminary cleaning agent was maintained at 70° C. The three-dimensional modeled object X sank in the preliminary cleaning agent LQ1 (250 cm.sup.3), the release valve 64 was closed, and the opening of the containing space 61KX was closed by using the lid 62. The containing space 61KX was decompressed by the pump 70. A decompression amount ΔP1 from the atmospheric pressure was 0.08 MPa. In the above condition, the preliminary cleaning step was performed. A time S1 for performing the preliminary cleaning step was 9 minutes.

    [0146] (Cleaning Step)

    [0147] Next, in the sealing unit 60, the cleaning step was performed. A temperature T2A of the cleaning agent was maintained at 65° C. The three-dimensional modeled object X sank in the cleaning agent LQ2 (250 cm.sup.3), the release valve 64 was closed, and the opening of the containing space 61KX was closed by using the lid 62. The containing space 61KX was decompressed by the pump 70. The decompression operation was stopped at a point when the cleaning agent LQ2 started boiling. A decompression amount ΔP2 from the atmospheric pressure at the point when the cleaning agent LQ2 started boiling was 0.07 MPa. As described above, the cleaning step was performed by using the boiled cleaning agent LQ2. A time S2A for performing the cleaning step was 2 minutes.

    [0148] Next, in the cleaning device 2 illustrated in FIG. 2, the cleaning step was performed. A temperature T2B of the cleaning agent was maintained at 65° C. The three-dimensional modeled object X sank in the cleaning agent LQ2 (250 cm.sup.3), and an ultrasonic wave was applied to the cleaning agent LQ2 by the ultrasonic unit 40. A frequency f2 of the applied ultrasonic wave was 40 KHz. A time S2B for performing the cleaning step was 2 minutes.

    [0149] (Rinsing Step)

    [0150] Next, a beaker was disposed in the outer container 21 of the cleaning device 2. 250 cm.sup.3 of water was poured into the beaker. A temperature T3 of the water was maintained at 65° C. The three-dimensional modeled object X sank in hot water, and an ultrasonic wave was applied to the water by the ultrasonic unit 40. A frequency f3 of the applied ultrasonic wave was 40 KHz. A time S3 for performing the rinsing step was 3 minutes.

    [0151] (Tests A2 to A11 and A13 to A17)

    [0152] The cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 1 preliminary cleaning agent Cleaning Step Fatty Preliminary ΔP2 Cleaning Acid Solid Cleaning Step (MPa) Rinsing Step Degree Ester Paraffin T1 ΔP1 S1 T2A *1 boiled S2A T2B f2 S2B T3 f3 S3 Evaluation No. (%) (%) (° C.) (MPa) (min) (° C.) *2 unboiled (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) Surface Hole Test A1 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A2 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 49 3 25 40 3 2 2 Test A3 70 36 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 40 3 1 1 Test A4 70 30 60 0.08 16 65 0.07 *1 2 55 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A5 70 36 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 — 3 1 1 Test A6 70 30 65 — 20 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A7 70 30 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A8 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 55 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A9 70 30 65 0.08 10 50 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A10 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 — 3 3 4 Test A11 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 — — — 65 40 3 3 4 Test A12 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.03 *2 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test A13 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 3 Test A14 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 40 7 65 40 3 3 5 Test A15 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 25 40 3 2 2 Test A16 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 25 — 3 2 2 Test A17 70 30 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test A18 90 10 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A19 50 10 65 9.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A20 30 10 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test A21 50 50 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A22 50 50 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A23 100 0 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test A24 0 100 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 1 1 Test A25 — — — — — 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 10 65 40 3 3 4

    [0153] Note that, in Table 1, “-” indicates that the step is not performed. Therefore, in Tests A3 and A5, the cleaning step is not performed. In addition, in the preliminary cleaning step of Tests A6 and A7 or the cleaning step of Tests A13 and A14, the decompression operation is not performed. In the rinsing step of Tests A5, A10, and A16 or the cleaning step of Test A11, an ultrasonic wave is not applied.

    [0154] (Test A12)

    [0155] The decompression operation was stopped before the cleaning agent LQ2 started boiling. At this time, the decompression amount ΔP2 from the atmospheric pressure is as shown in Table 1. The cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    [0156] (Tests A18 to A20)

    [0157] The components of the used preliminary cleaning agent are as follows.

    TABLE-US-00006 Fatty Acid Ester 90 weight % Solid Paraffin (CAS No. 8002-74-2) 10 weight %

    [0158] Then, the cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    [0159] (Tests A21 to A22)

    [0160] The components of the used preliminary cleaning agent are as follows.

    TABLE-US-00007 Fatty Acid Ester 50 weight % Solid Paraffin (CAS No. 8002-74-2) 50 weight %

    [0161] Then, the cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    [0162] (Test A23)

    [0163] The components of the used preliminary cleaning agent are as follows.

    TABLE-US-00008 Fatty Acid Ester 100 weight%

    [0164] Then, the cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    [0165] (Test A24)

    [0166] The components of the used preliminary cleaning agent are as follows.

    [0167] Solid Paraffin (CAS No. 8002-74-2) 100 weight % Then, the cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 1.

    [0168] (Test A25)

    [0169] The cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except that the cleaning step and the rinsing step were performed without performing the preliminary cleaning step and conditions shown in Table 1 were used.

    [0170] The three-dimensional modeled object X (a model material) after Tests A1 to A25 was evaluated on the basis of the following criteria. Each evaluation result is shown in Table 1.

    [0171] 1. Cleaning Degree Evaluation (Surface)

    [0172] The surface of the three-dimensional modeled object X (the model material) (excluding the linear through hole and the curved through hole) after Tests A1 to A25 was evaluated.

    [0173] Evaluation criteria are as follows.

    [0174] 1: According to visual observation, most of the support material remained.

    [0175] 2: According to visual observation, a small amount of the support material remained.

    [0176] 3: According to visual observation, no support material remained.

    [0177] 2. Cleaning Degree Evaluation (Hole)

    [0178] The three-dimensional modeled object X (the model material) after Tests A1 to A25 was evaluated.

    [0179] Evaluation criteria are as follows.

    [0180] 1: According to visual observation, most of the support material remained.

    [0181] 2: According to visual observation, the support material still remained.

    [0182] 3: According to visual observation, a small amount of the support material remained.

    [0183] 4: The support material was not capable of being checked in visual observation, but when allowing a metal wire having approximately the same diameter as that of the hole to pass through the hole, the metal wire was lodged in the middle and was not capable of passing through the hole.

    [0184] 5: The support material was not capable of being checked in visual observation, and when allowing a metal wire having approximately the same diameter as that of the hole to pass through the hole, the metal wire was capable of passing through the hole without being lodged.

    [0185] (Tests B1 to B25)

    [0186] A cleaning agent containing the following components was used.

    [0187] Component of Cleaning Agent:

    TABLE-US-00009 Water 90 weight % Triethanol Amine  5 weight % 2-Aminoethanol  5 weight %

    [0188] Then, the cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 2.

    TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 2 preliminary cleaning agent Cleaning Step Fatty Preliminary ΔP2 Cleaning Acid Solid Cleaning Step (MPa) Rinsing Step Degree Ester Paraffin T1 ΔP1 S1 T2A *1 boiled S2A T2B f2 S2B T3 f3 S3 Evaluation No. (%) (%) (° C.) (MPa) (min) (° C.) *2 unboiled (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) Surface Hole Test B1 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B2 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 25 40 3 2 2 Test B3 70 30 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 40 3 1 Test B4 70 30 60 0.08 16 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B5 70 30 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 — 3 1 1 Test B6 70 30 65 — 20 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B7 70 30 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2. 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B8 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B9 70 30 65 0.08 10 50 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B10 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 — 2 3 4 Test B11 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 — — — 65 40 3 3 4 Test B12 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.03 *2 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test B13 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 3 Test B14 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 40 7 65 40 3 3 5 Test B15 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 2 25 40 3 2 2 Test B16 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 25 — 3 2 2 Test B17 70 30 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test B18 90 10 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B19 90 10 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B20 90 10 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 2 3 4 Test B21 50 50 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B22 50 50 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B23 100 0 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test B24 0 100 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 1 1 Test B23 — — — — — 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 10 65 40 3 3 4

    [0189] The three-dimensional modeled object X (the model material) after Tests B1 to B25 was evaluated on the basis of the above-mentioned criteria. Each evaluation result is shown in Table 2.

    [0190] (Tests C1 to C25)

    [0191] VisiJet M2R-CL (manufactured by 3D SYSTEMS JAPAN K.K.) was used as the model material MD.

    [0192] Components of Model Material MD:

    TABLE-US-00011 3-Hydroxy-2, 2-Dimethyl Propyl-3- Hydroxy-2, 2-Dimethyl Propionate Diacrylate 20 to 40 weight % (CAS No. 30145-51-8) Tricyclodecane Dimethanol Diacrylate (CAS No. 42594-17-2) 20 to 30 weight % Diphenyl (2,4,6-Trimethyl Benzoyl) 0.5 to 1.5 weight %   Phosphine Oxide (CAS No. 75980-60-8) Urethane Acrylate Oligomer 10 to 30 weight %

    [0193] Then, cleaning method of the support material was performed with respect to the three-dimensional modeled object X, as with Test A1, except for conditions shown in Table 3.

    TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 3 preliminary cleaning agent Cleaning Step Fatty Preliminary ΔP2 Cleaning Acid Solid Cleaning Step (MPa) Rinsing Step Degree Ester Paraffin T1 ΔP1 S1 T2A *1 boiled S2A T2B f2 S2B T3 f3 S3 Evaluation No. (%) (%) (° C.) (MPa) (min) (° C.) *2 unboiled (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) (° C.) (KHz) (min) Surface Hole Test C1 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C2 70 30 70 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 25 40 3 2 2 Test C3 70 30 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 40 3 3 1 Test C4 70 30 60 0.58 16 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 S Test C5 70 39 65 0.08 9 — — — — — — 65 — 3 3 1 Test C6 70 30 65 — 20 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C7 70 30 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C8 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 55 40 3 3 5 Test C9 70 30 65 0.08 10 50 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 55 40 3 3 5 Test C10 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 55 — 3 3 4 Test C11 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 — — — 65 40 3 3 4 Test C12 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.03 *2 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test C13 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 49 3 65 49 3 3 3 Test C14 70 30 65 0.08 10 — — — 65 49 7 65 40 3 3 5 Test C15 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 49 3 25 40 3 2 2 Test C16 70 30 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 49 3 25 — 3 2 2 Test C17 70 30 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test C18 90 10 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C19 90 10 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C20 90 10 50 0.08 9 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 4 Test C21 50 50 65 — 18 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C22 50 50 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C23 100 0 65 0.98 10 65 6.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 3 5 Test C24 0 100 65 0.08 10 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 3 65 40 3 1 1 Test C25 — — — — — 65 0.07 *1 2 65 40 19 65 40 3 3 4

    [0194] The three-dimensional modeled object X (the model material) after Tests C1 to C25 was evaluated on the basis of the above-mentioned criteria. Each evaluation result is shown in Table 3.

    [0195] The cleaning method of the support material of the related art is as follows. (3 to 4) Three-dimensional modeled objects X were placed on a net disposed in an oven, and heated for 1 hour in a temperature range of higher than or equal to the melting point of the support material and lower than the melting point of the model material. Accordingly, most of the support material is melted. Next, the (3 to 4) three-dimensional modeled objects X are cleaned for 30 minutes by using an ultrasonic cleaning machine. After that, the remaining support material is scraped off by being rubbed with a toothbrush using isopropyl alcohol (approximately 2 to 3 hours per one object). In the cleaning method of the support material of the related art, at least 120 to 140 minutes was required per one three-dimensional modeled object X. In addition, according to the criteria described above, in “1. Cleaning Degree Evaluation (Surface)”, the cleaning degree was “1”. In “2. Cleaning Degree Evaluation (Hole)”, the cleaning degree was “1”. According to the invention, since the support material can be removed within 30 minutes, a removing operation time can be shortened.

    [0196] Note that, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and it is obvious that the invention can be variously changed within a range not departing from the gist of the invention.

    EXPLANATIONS OF LETTERS OR NUMERALS

    [0197] 2 CLEANING DEVICE [0198] 11 PRELIMINARY CLEANING TANK [0199] 11C COVER PLATE [0200] 11K ENGAGEMENT PORTION [0201] 12 CLEANING TANK [0202] 12C COVER PLATE [0203] 12K ENGAGEMENT PORTION [0204] 21 OUTER CONTAINER [0205] 21S COVER [0206] 30 TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT UNIT [0207] 31 TEMPERATURE SENSOR [0208] 32 HEATER [0209] 40 ULTRASONIC UNIT [0210] 41 CONTROL BOX [0211] 42 OSCILLATOR [0212] 43 CABLE [0213] 60 SEALING UNIT [0214] 70 PUMP [0215] 80 CONTROLLER [0216] 100 CLEANING METHOD OF HIGH—MOLECULAR COMPOUND [0217] 110 PRELIMINARY CLEANING STEP [0218] 120 CLEANING STEP [0219] 130 RINSING STEP