СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ОТДЕЛКИ ПОВЕРХНОСТИ ИЗДЕЛИЙ, ИЗГОТОВЛЕННЫХ С ПОМОЩЬЮ 3D-ПЕЧАТИ

Изобретение относится к способу и устройству для отделки поверхности деталей, полученных с помощью 3D-печати. Согласно способу обрабатываемую деталь и используемый в процессе жидкий пластификатор нагревают вместе в герметично закрытой камере обработки до рабочей температуры, которая ниже температуры кипения используемого в процессе пластификатора. Паровоздушную смесь поддерживают в постоянной циркуляции в камере для сохранения равномерной температуры и концентрации и для обеспечения контакта детали со смесью воздуха/пара во избежание образования конденсата на поверхности детали и для того, чтобы позволить парам используемого в процессе пластификатора впитываться в поверхность детали без образования конденсата. Время воздействия паров является фиксированным в зависимости от желаемой глубины проникновения. Устройство содержит камеру с нагревательными элементами, средством обеспечения циркуляции смеси воздуха/пара в камере для поддержания в ней однородной температуры и концентрации и блок ...

Vorrichtung zur Nachbearbeitung wenigstens eines mit einem additiven Fertigungsverfahren hergestellten Objekts

Vorrichtung (100) zur Nachbearbeitung wenigstens eines mit einem additiven Fertigungsverfahren durch schichtweises Aufbringen und selektives Verfestigen eines pulverförmigen Aufbaumaterials hergestellten Objekts (9), umfassend eine Entpulverungskammer (4) zum wenigstens teilweise Entfernen von losem Aufbaumaterial von dem wenigstens einen Objekt (9), und eine Strahlkammer (6) zur Nachbehandlung des wenigstens einen Objekts mittels wenigstens eines Strahlguts, wobeia) in der Entpulverungskammer (4) von einer Steuerung gesteuerte Mittel zum Entfernen von losem Aufbaumaterial von dem wenigstens einen Objekt (9) und in der Strahlkammer (6) von der Steuerung gesteuerte Mittel (8) zum Strahlen des wenigstens einen Objekts mittels eines Strahls (18) aus Strahlgut vorgesehen sind, und wobeib) die Entpulverungskammer (4) und die Strahlkammer (6) durch eine Schottwand (34) voneinander getrennt sind, welche wenigstens eine Durchgangsöffnung (33) aufweist, gekennzeichnet durchc) von einer Steuerung ...

Bauplatten mit Leitungen für additive Fertigungssysteme und Verfahren zum Bauen von Komponenten auf Bauplatten

Es sind Bauplatten (100) für additive Fertigungssystem (900) offenbart. Die Bauplatten (100) der additiven Fertigungssysteme (900) können einen Körper (102) enthalten, der eine Bauoberfläche (104) und eine der Bauoberfläche (104) gegenüberliegend positionierte untere Oberfläche (106) enthält. Die Bauplatten (100) können ferner einen ersten Leitungskanal (108A) enthalten, der durch den Körper (102) hindurch ausgebildet ist und sich zwischen der Bauoberfläche (104) und der unteren Oberfläche (106) erstreckt. Der erste Leitungskanal (108A) kann eingerichtet sein, um mit einer ersten Durchlassöffnung (22) in Fluidverbindung zu stehen, die durch eine Oberfläche (24) einer ersten Komponente (10) ausgebildet ist, die auf der Bauoberfläche (104) des Körpers (102) der Bauplatten (100) gebaut werden kann.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Reinigen eines mit 3D-Druck hegestellten Objekts

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Reinigen eines mit einem 3D-Druckverfahren hergestellten Objekts (3), insbesondere eines mit einem 3D-Druckverfahren hergestellten dentalen Formteils, das Verfahren aufweisend die Schritte:A) Bereitstellen eines mit einem 3D-Druckverfahren hergestellten Objekts (3), wobei an der Oberfläche des Objekts (3) Reste eines Druckmediums anhaften, aus dem das Objekt (3) hergestellt wurde;B) Erzeugen wenigstens eines Gasstroms mit zumindest einer Düse (1), wobei ein unter Druck stehendes Gas durch eine schlitzförmige Öffnung (8) der zumindest einen Düse (1) gedrückt wird;C) Entfernen von an dem Objekt (3) anhaftenden Resten des Druckmediums mit dem wenigstens einen Gasstrom.Die Erfindung betrifft auch eine Vorrichtung hierzu und ein 3D-Drucksystem mit einer solchen Vorrichtung.

Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum Entpulvern von additiv gefertigten Bauteilen

Es wird eine Vorrichtung (1) zum Entpulvern von additiv gefertigten Bauteilen (2) angegeben. Die Vorrichtung (1) weist eine Transporteinrichtung (3) zum Fördern einer Mehrzahl von additiv gefertigten Bauteilen (2) entlang eines Förderwegs und eine Entpulverungseinrichtung (4) zum Entfernen von an den Bauteilen (2) anhaftendem Pulver während eines Förderns der Bauteile (2) durch die Transporteinrichtung (3) auf. Des Weiteren weist die Transporteinrichtung (3) eine Mehrzahl von Greif- und/oder Halteeinrichtungen (8) zum Halten der Bauteile (2) während des Förderns auf, und die Greif- und/oder Halteeinrichtungen (8) weisen jeweils zumindest einen Medieneingang (11) zum Einleiten eines Entpulverungsmediums (9) und jeweils eine Mehrzahl von Austrittsöffnungen (10), durch welche das Entpulverungsmedium (9) in Richtung eines von der jeweiligen Greif- und/oder Halteeinrichtung (8) gehaltenen Bauteils (2) austreten kann, auf. Weiterhin wird ein Verfahren zum Entpulvern von additiv gefertigten Bauteilen ...

improvements to additive manufacturing

Apparatus and method for post-processing an additively manufactured polymer part, comprising a solvent reservoir 402; a processing chamber 404 in controllable fluid communication with the reservoir; and a controller 418 to post-process the polymer part responsive to at least one parameter of the part 406. The parameters could include desired surface finish, surface area, volume, dimension and/or part complexity. The chamber may have a heating element on an inner surface. The part may be placed under vacuum 412 before the pre-determined amount of solvent is transferred in 416. The solvent may condense on the polymer surface 418, which may be cooled. After a predetermined time, a vacuum removes the solvent from the polymer part 420. The solvent may be recovered using a condenser and returned to a separate chamber of the reservoir 422. The processing chamber may be vented to atmosphere. The apparatus may comprise a user interface for the user to input the material of the part and desired surface ...

Method for unpacking a 3d printing part

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Entpacken zumindest eines mittels eines generativen Fertigungsverfahrens hergestellten Bauteils (2) aus einer Partikelmaterial- Schüttung aus nicht verfestigtem Partikelmaterial (3), wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) gemeinsam mit dem zumindest einen Bauteil (2) in einer, in Vertikalrichtung nach oben geöffneten und durch einen oberen Rand (6), sowie nach unten durch eine Bodenplatte (4), sowie seitlich durch eine Umwandung (5) begrenzte, Baubox (1) angeordnet ist, wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) fluidisiert wird und das zumindest eine Bauteil (2) mittels einer Abtransportvorrichtung (8) von der Baubox (1) abtransportiert wird, und wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) in der Baubox (1) verbleibt.

TRANSPORTABLE ASSEMBLY UNIT FOR AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING DEVICE

Transportable assembly unit for attachment to a stereolithographic additive manufacturing device (1), comprising a component carrier (45) for an additive manufacturing device (1), wherein the component carrier (45) comprises a construction surface (7), on which a component (8) to be manufactured is disposed during the operation of the manufacturing device (1), wherein the component carrier (45) comprises a sealing surface (14) which radially surrounds the construction surface (7), the transportable assembly unit further comprising a container (5), wherein the component carrier (3) is adapted for placement onto the container (5) as a lid; and method for post-processing a component (8) manufactured according to an additive manufacturing process using such a component carrier (3).

Powder absorption equipment for laser three-dimensional manufacturing

Rapid prototyping device for product with inside and outside compound structure

Four mirror for manufacturing laser forming equipment of the wind path system

Print based on LOM technique 3D and use clout remove device

Shell of FDM type 3D printer

For manufacturing of the apparatus and method

Method, device and control unit for producing a, three-dimensional object

3D printer with good heat dissipating property

APPARATUS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

Multi-material photo-curing 3D printer

Automatic product SLS cleaning device for printer

Method and apparatus for removing support using induced atomization and semi-atomizing fluids

METHOD FOR POST-PROCESSING A PART OBTAINED BY ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING FROM A PLASTIC MATERIAL POWDER

The invention relates to a method for post-processing a part obtained by additive manufacturing through sintering of a plastic material powder, in order to remove particles detached from said part or partially sintered, the method comprising the consecutive steps of: - pickling (S1); and - ionising blowing (S2). Such a method makes it possible to remove particles having a largest dimension greater than a given dimension. The invention also relates to a corresponding manufacturing method of a plastic material part, and to a corresponding production method.

3D PRINTING CLEANING MODULES

A 3D printing cleaning module comprises an extraction gate at a lateral wall of a housing; and a platform within the housing to support a build bed including 3D printed parts and un-solidified build material. The platform is tilted or tiltable with respect to a horizontal plane towards the extraction gate to enable 3D printed parts on the platform to be removable through the extraction gate. The module comprises a cleaning engine to remove at least part of the un-solidified build material from the housing, a vibrating mechanism to vibrate the platform; and a controller. The controller is to control the cleaning engine to execute a cleaning operation by removing un-solidified build material from the housing, to cause the part ejection gate to open upon completion of the cleaning operation, and to cause the vibrating mechanism to vibrate the platform when the part extraction gate is in the open position.

3D PRINTER WITH RESIDUAL POWDER REMOVAL DEVICE

A 3D printer with a residual powder removal device according to the present invention comprises: a cabinet which forms the exterior and protects a plurality of embedded components; a chamber which forms, in the cabinet, a printing space in which a three-dimensional molded product is created by being irradiated with a laser beam from a laser irradiator; a concentration meter which measures the concentration of metal powder scattered in the chamber; a powder transport unit which transports the metal powder in the chamber; and a residual powder removal device which sprays inert gas into the chamber to forcibly scatter condensed metal powder, discharges the metal powder scattered in the chamber along with the inert gas to the outside, filters the metal powder by allowing same to pass through a filter assembly, and removes the residual metal powder in the chamber.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

A de-powdering basket comprises an enclosure of at least one side wall and a bottom wall. The enclosure is configured such that, when the enclosure is disposed within a build box, the outer surfaces of the at least one side wall are substantially adjacent to the interior walls of the build box. The enclosure further comprises one or more apertures disposed within the at least one side wall, each of the apertures comprising a void that extends through the at least one side wall from an interior surface of the side wall to an exterior surface of the side wall. The enclosure may be configured to accommodate a build plate situated within the enclosure. Outer edges of the build plate may cooperate with inner surfaces of the side walls of the enclosure to prevent loose powder from passing between the outer edges of the build plate and the side wall.

WET WIPER APPARATUSES FOR USE IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING APPARATUSES

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to additive manufacturing apparatuses, cleaning stations incorporated therein, and methods of cleaning using the cleaning stations.

OBJECT DECAKING

The invention relates to a decake apparatus. The decake apparatus has a chamber with a base to support a build cake. The build cake includes a build object and non-solidified build material. The apparatus includes a distributor from which to force a fluidisation medium into a lower portion of a build cake supported on the base to fluidise non-solidified build material around the build object so that the build object sinks through the fluidised non-solidified build material towards the base. The also includes a material outlet through which non-solidified build material can be removed from the chamber.

MACHINE FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING BY POWDER BED DEPOSITION WITH A CENTRAL GAS SUCTION OR GAS BLOWING MANIFOLD

The invention relates to a machine (10) for additive manufacturing by powder bed deposition, the machine comprising a working surface (12) on which at least one layer of additive manufacturing powder (14) is deposited, the machine comprising a device (16) for selective consolidation by complete or partial melting of a layer of powder deposited on the working surface, and the machine comprising a device (18) for extracting the fumes created by the selective consolidation of a powder layer, wherein the selective consolidation device emits at least two beams (F1, F2) of energy or heat in the direction of the working surface, the working surface is divided into at least two adjoining work areas (Z1, Z2), and a first beam (F1) consolidates the powder in a first work area (Z1) and a second beam (F2) consolidates the powder in a second work area (Z2). The fume extraction device (18) comprises at least one central gas suction and/or gas blowing manifold (40) mounted so as to be translatably movable ...

3D PRINTER

Examples relate to a 3D printer capable of positioning a printhead relative to a spittoon disposed within a maintenance region of the 3D printer, ejecting printing fluid from the printhead onto the spittoon, and positioning a moveable heat source proximate to the spittoon to evaporate printing fluid from the spittoon.

POWDER MONITORING

A method including filling an internal passage of an additively manufactured (AM) article with a state change fluid, causing the state change fluid to change from a first state having a first viscosity to a second state that is either solid or has a second viscosity that is higher than the first viscosity within the internal passage, causing the state change fluid to change back from the second state to the first state, removing residual powder from the additively manufactured article by flushing the state change fluid from the internal passage, measuring electrical impedance of a piezoelectric wafer connected to the additively manufactured article, and determining that more than a threshold amount of residual powder remains within the AM article based on the measured electrical impendence of the additively manufactured article being outside of a selected range from an expected impendence value.

LIQUID EXTRACTION

According to one aspect, there is provided a method of removing liquid from a build chamber containing build material and liquid. The method comprises starting a liquid extraction process to extract liquid from the build chamber, and determining when a predetermined threshold of liquid has been removed from the build chamber, and thereby stopping the liquid extraction process.

IRRADIATION DEVICE FOR AN APPARATUS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

Irradiation device (5) for an apparatus (1) for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects (2) by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material (3) which can be consolidated by means of an energy source, which Irradiation device (5) comprises at least one irradiation unit (6-8), preferably an optical unit, arranged in a housing (9) of the Irradiation device (5), wherein a stream generating device (10) is provided that is adapted to guide a gas stream (11) that is adapted to be charged with residues present inside the housing (9) through the housing (9) of the Irradiation device (5) along a streaming path in which the gas stream (11) at least partially streams alongside or through the at least one irradiation unit (6-8) for removing residues from the housing (9).

Three-dimensional (3D) printing

In an example implementation, a method of operating a three-dimensional (3D) printing system includes forming a fused 3D object in the printing tray of a 3D printer and vibrating the tray to separate unfused material from the fused 3D object.

DEVICE AND AN ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR PRODUCING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS BY SOLIDIFYING LAYERS ONE AFTER THE OTHER

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Herstellen von dreidimensionalen Objekten durch aufeinanderfolgendes Verfestigen von Schichten eines mittels Strahlung verfestigbaren Aufbaumaterials an dem den jeweiligen Querschnitt des Objektes entsprechenden Stellen, mit einem eine Prozesskammer umfassenden Gehäuse, einem darin untergebrachten Baubehälter, einer Bestrahlungsvorrichtung zum Bestrahlen von Schichten des Aufbaumaterials an den dem jeweiligen Querschnitt des Objektes entsprechenden Stellen, einer Aufbringvorrichtung zum Aufbringen der Schichten des Aufbaumaterials auf eine Tragevorrichtung im Baubehälter oder eine zuvor gebildete Schicht, einer Dosiereinrichtung zum Zuführen des Aufbaumaterials, wobei die Aufbringvorrichtung ein Beschichterelement umfasst, dass das von der Dosiereinrichtung zugeführte Aufbaumaterial als dünne Schicht in einem Auftragbereich entlang einer linearen Auftragbewegung verteilt, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Beschichterelement am Ende eines Beschichtungsvorganges ...

DEVICE AND AN ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR PRODUCING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS BY SOLIDIFYING LAYERS ONE AFTER THE OTHER

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Herstellen von dreidimensionalen Objekten durch aufeinanderfolgendes Verfestigen von Schichten eines mittels Strahlung verfestigbaren Aufbaumaterials an dem den jeweiligen Querschnitt des Objektes entsprechenden Stellen, mit einem eine Prozesskammer umfassenden Gehäuse, einem darin untergebrachten Baubehälter, einer Bestrahlungsvorrichtung zum Bestrahlen von Schichten des Aufbaumaterials an den dem jeweiligen Querschnitt des Objektes entsprechenden Stellen, einer Aufbringvorrichtung zum Aufbringen der Schichten des Aufbaumaterials auf eine Tragevorrichtung im Baubehälter oder eine zuvor gebildete Schicht, einer Dosiereinrichtung zum Zuführen des Aufbaumaterials, wobei die Aufbringvorrichtung ein Beschichterelement umfasst, dass das von der Dosiereinrichtung zugeführte Aufbaumaterial als dünne Schicht in einem Auftragbereich entlang einer linearen Auftragbewegung verteilt, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Beschichterelement am Ende eines Beschichtungsvorganges ...

MACHINE AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

The machine comprises: manufacturing robots 201 to fabricate parts 506 through additive manufacturing; and an automatic loading system 406 with a loader 104, to feed the manufacturing robot or robots 201 with manufacturing platforms 405 designed to support parts during manufacturing and manufactured parts 506. The loader 104 is located beside each manufacturing robot 201 to load the manufacturing platforms. The lateral external location of the loader 104 with respect to the manufacturing robot 201 permits the integration of a heating system inside the robot to heat the manufacturing platform when the platform is loaded, giving rise to the possibility of printing in different materials such as technical polymers, metals, and ceramics; furthermore, having the loading system outside of the robotic arm, one single loader could feed several adjacent robotic arms.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR FUNCTIONALLY GRADED MATERIAL

WASTE DISPOSAL FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURE

PROCESS OF COLORING OR TREATING THE SURFACE OF POLYMER PARTS

Provided is a method of dyeing or otherwise surface treating a polymer part so as to provide a treated polymer part with a surface additive which has wash fastness with respect to alcohol solutions and therefore does not leach or transfer in response to contact with alcohol. The method includes preparing a surface treatment solution comprising a solvent and the surface additive; submerging a polymer part in the surface treatment solution for a set time period before in order to coat the surface of the part with the additive; air drying the part; vapor polishing the part by exposing an outer surface to vaporized hexafluoroisopropanol in order to bind the additive within the polymer; and finally washing the fixed coated part in a surfactant and water solution to produce a finished surface treated polymer part.

Bauteilherstellanlage zur Herstellung eines Bauteils mittels selektivem Lasersintern (SLS)

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Bauteilherstellanlage (1) zur Herstellung eines Bauteils mittels selektivem Lasersintern (SLS), aufweisend eine Herstellungseinrichtung (3), eine Lagereinrichtung (5), eine Auspackeinrichtung (7) sowie eine Transporteinrichtung (9), wobei die Herstellungseinrichtung (3) dazu eingerichtet ist, ein Bauteil (11) in zumindest einem Pulverkuchen (13) in einem Behälter (15) - manchmal auch als Job-Box bezeichnet -herzustellen, wobei die Lagereinrichtung (5) dazu eingerichtet ist, darin Behälter (15) zu lagern und selektiv zu temperieren, wobei die Auspackstation (7) dazu eingerichtet ist, das in dem Pulverkuchen (13) eingebettete Bauteil (11) vom Pulverkuchen (13) zu befreien und/oder zu säubern, und wobei die Transporteinrichtung (9) dazu eingerichtet ist, Behälter (15) zwischen den einzelnen Einrichtungen (3,5,7,9) der Anlage zu verlagern.

ADDITIVES FERTIGUNGSSYSTEM UND BESEITIGUNGSVERFAHREN

Ein additives Fertigungssystem umfasst eine additive Fertigungsvorrichtung, die ein Formobjekt bildet, indem sie eine Aufschlämmung, die ein Basismaterial des Formobjekts darstellt, härtet, und eine Beseitigungsvorrichtung, die an dem Formobjekt anhaftende Aufschlämmung beseitigt, wobei die Beseitigungsvorrichtung einen Behälter, der eine Drehachse und eine mit mehreren kleinen Löchern versehene Umfangswand aufweist, wobei der Behälter eine Fixierung des Formobjekts in seinem Inneren gestattet, und eine Antriebseinheit, die den Behälter um die Drehachse drehend antreibt, umfasst.

Improvements to additive manufacturing

A method and apparatus for controllably post-processing an additively manufactured (AM) polymer part. The method comprises: locating an AM part in a processing chamber S404; heating a solvent so it vaporises prior to entering the processing chamber and delivering the solvent into the chamber S416; applying a negative pressure to the processing chamber S420; The process is responsive to at least one parameter associated with the part 406, that parameter may be desired surface finish and/or a geometric property such as surface area, volume, dimension and/or part complexity. The AM part, may be heated and/or placed under vacuum S412 before the solvent is transferred in S416. The solvent may condense on the AM part S418, which may be cooled, for a pre-determined exposure time. A vacuum may be applied to remove the solvent from the AM part S420. The solvent may be recovered using a condenser and returned to the reservoir 422, which may include a chamber for recovered solvent. The vacuum pump ...

Manufacturing apparatus and method

Operations for removing granular material from product 101 (e.g. made by additive manufacture, perhaps selective laser melting) are performed by a granular material removal apparatus (e.g. ultrasonic transducer 110). For each operation, a normal mode frequency of the product is detected by a normal mode frequency detection apparatus (perhaps by mechanical excitation using piezoelectric actuator 103 and detecting vibrational response using accelerometer 102). A signal indicative of a characteristic of the normal mode frequency of the product, relative to that of a reference product having a desired structural characteristic (e.g. no defects), both detected at a given number of removal operations, is output by circuitry (e.g. controller 107) configured to do so. A change in the normal mode frequency of the product between removal operations may be determined, and a signal output indicating whether the change is less than a predetermined amount over a predetermined number of consecutive operations ...

Method for post-processing an additively manufactured part

A method for post-processing a powder-based additively manufactured (AM) part comprising: providing a powder-based AM part comprising polypropylene; providing a fluid where the fluid comprises acetophenone; heating the fluid; applying the heated fluid to a surface of the AM part. Preferably, the fluid is heated to 115-135°C. Preferably, the fluid comprises a combination of solvents (organic esters; aromatic organic compounds; or acetals). Preferably, the fluid also comprises a solvent; an acid; an alkali; or an oil. Preferably, the fluid also comprises an essential oil plasticizer. Preferably, the application step comprises repeatedly submerging the AM part in the liquid or repeatedly condensing fluid vapour onto a surface of the AM part under a negative pressure (70mbar to 400mbar). Preferably, the method includes washing, drying and cooling steps. Preferably, the AM part is made by selective laser sintering or multi-jet fusion. Preferably the material is a filament-based Polypropylene ...

Printing platform for at least one three-dimensional component made of at least one particulate material 3D

Druckplattform (1) für wenigstens ein aus wenigstens einem Partikelmaterial (2) 3D-gedrucktes dreidimensionales Bauteil (3) für die Bauindustrie, umfassend eine Oberseite (4) mit einem bedruckbaren Bereich und eine Unterseite (5), wobei Durchtrittsöffnungen (6) vorgesehen sind, über welche nichtverfestigtes, loses Partikelmaterial (2) von der Oberseite (4) der Druckplattform (1) zur Unterseite (5) abführbar ist, und wobei ein Verschlussmechanismus (7) vorgesehen ist, mit welchem die Durchtrittsöffnungen (6) wahlweise verschließbar oder öffenbar sind, wobei der bedruckbare Bereich der Oberseite (4) der Druckplattform (1) konvexe Abschnitte (8, 9, 10) aufweist, vorzugsweise vollständig aus konvexen Abschnitten (8, 9, 10) gebildet ist, über welche das abzuführende nichtverfestigte Partikelmaterial (2) den Durchtrittsöffnungen (6) zuführbar ist.

METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF ELEMENTS OBTAINED BY AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS

A method for preparing an element for use in or as a medical device using an additive manufacturing process comprises applying on the element a treating agent in liquid or gaseous form.

Controller for 3D printer

3D printer multifunctional machine frame

3D printing model demolish and waste material recovery unit

3D Printing apparatus and 3D printing method for printing photosensitive material

Cleaning mechanism for 3D printer

3D printer material roller

3D printer shower nozzle cleaning device

A DLP technology based on forming powder and powder surface forming device

4D printing system

A 3 D printer nozzle cleaning device

Multi-color type 3D printer and operating method thereof

System for continuous production of composite structures Print head and compactor

3D 프린팅된 물체의 언패킹

... 적층 가공 프로세스에서 축조 재료를 사용하여 축조된 물체를 언패킹하기 위한 장치가 제공되며, 상기 장치는 언패킹 구획과; 상기 언패킹 구획 내에서 작동하여, 축조된 물체 주위에서 미융해 축조 재료를 흡입에 의해 회수하는 수집 호스와; 상기 수집 호스에 결합되어, 상기 수집 호스에 의해 회수된 미융해 축조 재료를 수용하는 회수 축조 재료 탱크를 포함하고; 상기 장치는 적층 가공 프로세스를 위해 상기 회수 축조 재료 탱크로부터, 회수된 미융해 축조 재료를 공급한다.

Additive manufacturing processing tank and additive manufacturing apparatus thereof capable of avoiding inconvenience and dust flying when discharging powders

The present invention provides an additive manufacturing processing tank and an additive manufacturing apparatus thereof. Powder discharging holes are disposed at a lower edge of the processing tank. Powers can be naturally dropped by using gravity. In addition, a vibration block can be used to vibrate the powders to accelerate downward power discharging. The present invention can solve the problems of the conventional additive manufacturing processing tank such as inconvenience and dust flying when discharging powders. The present invention further includes an independently-installed cleaning conveyor system separated from the additive manufacturing main system. The present invention requires less space and reduces energy consumption.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SEPARATING A MATERIAL FROM AT LEAST ONE ADDITIVELY PRODUCED COMPONENT

The invention relates to a device for separating a material from at least one additively produced component, comprising at least one positioning device for aligning the at least one component, at least one vibration device for setting the at least one component into vibrations, and comprising a control unit for actuating the at least one positioning device and the at least one vibration device. Furthermore, a method is disclosed.

FLOW DEVICE AND FLOW METHOD FOR A DEVICE FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT

The invention relates to a flow device which is used for a plurality of energy-beam exit regions (25a-25d, 125a-125d, 225a-225f) in an additive manufacturing device (1) for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object (2) by means of the layer-by-layer application and selective solidification of a construction material by irradiation with energy radiation. The flow device comprises a process chamber (3) having a top wall (9). The energy-beam exit regions (25a-25d, 125a-125d, 225a-225f) are arranged in the top wall (9) of the process chamber (3) in a reference plane (R). A plurality of energy-beam deflection units (20a, 20b) of the additive manufacturing device (1) is arranged above the energy-beam exit regions (25a-25d, 125a-125d, 225a-225f). Furthermore, the flow device comprises at least one gas distribution unit (17, 17', 117) and a plurality of gas outlets (30, 33) for discharging a gas into the process chamber (3). The gas outlets (30, 33) are formed at least partly by the gas ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MACHINE COMPRISING A GAS FLOW DEFLECTION MEMBER

The present invention concerns an additive manufacturing machine (10) comprising a gas flow deflection member (110) for discharging fumes resulting from the additive manufacture of a workpiece, the machine (10) comprising an enclosure (30), a manufacturing plate (50), a gas inlet pipe (100) and a powder deposition carriage (60), characterised in that the deflection member (110) is configured to direct a gas flow from the gas inlet pipe (100) in a plane substantially tangential to the surface of a manufacturing zone (51) of the manufacturing plate (50), and in that the deflection member (110) is configured to be attached to the carriage (60).

FILTER HOUSING

An example of an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a filter housing defining a chamber. The apparatus also comprises an inlet on the housing connectable to a first conduit to enable a mix of build material and air to be introduced into the chamber. The apparatus further comprises an air outlet on the housing connectable to a second conduit to transfer air from the air outlet to a pump. The apparatus also comprises a build material outlet on the housing selectively fluidically connectable to a third conduit by means of a valve. The filter housing to receive a filter to prevent build material entering the second conduit.

PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR CHEMICAL SMOOTHING OF PLASTIC PARTS

The invention relates to a process and an apparatus for chemical smoothing of a plastic part (10) produced by selective layerwise consolidation of a construction material. The process comprises the steps of: temperature controlling the plastic part to a first temperature; temperature controlling solvent vapour (8) comprising a solvent to a second temperature; subjecting the plastic part (10) to the solvent vapour (8) temperature controlled to the second temperature for a particular duration, wherein the subjecting of the plastic part (10) to the solvent vapour (8) has the result that an outer layer of the plastic part (10) is liquefied; and discharging at least a portion of the solvent vapour (8) after the particular duration, wherein the plastic part (10) is stationary from commencement of the temperature controlling of the plastic part until termination of the discharging of the solvent vapour (8).

COMBINED DEVICE FOR TRANSFERRING AND SCREENING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING POWDER

The invention relates to a combined device (10) transferring and screening additive manufacturing powder, the combined device (10) comprising a powder transfer device (34) and a powder screening device (36), the screening device (36) comprising a screen (38), an upstream device for accepting a container (22) of powder that is to be screened, and a downstream device for accepting a container (22) intended to receive the screened powder. According to the invention, the transfer device (34) comprises a transfer enclosure which can be opened and then closed again in a fluidtight manner, the said transfer enclosure comprising a powder receptacle, an at least partially transparent wall and at least one wall equipped with glove holes, and the receptacle of the transfer enclosure being connected by at least one pipe to the screening circuit of the screening device.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AFTER-TREATING ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED PARTS

The invention relates to methods and apparatus (10) for processing one or more additively manufactured (AM) parts and/or a powder cake containing one or more AM parts. The method comprises: locating one or more AM parts and/or a powder cake containing one or more AM parts in a processing chamber (12); providing processing media in the processing chamber (12); and creating a swirling flow path for said processing media within the processing chamber (12) for impacting the one or more AM parts and/or powder cake with the processing media. The method/apparatus can be used to efficiently remove powder from AM parts/powder cakes and/or alter surface properties of AM parts.

Method for enhancing the finish of additively-manufactured components

Discloses are a method and apparatus for the additive manufacture of components by applying layers of powder material on a substrate or a previously produced part of a component and at least partial fusing of the powder material in the powder layer in line with the component cross-section contour along the powder layer and to an underlying solid material of the component or substrate for the purpose of building up several solid layers one on top of the other. Following fusion of the powder material the solid layer just generated is cleaned of powder material and, prior to deposition of the next solid layer, the edge of the solid layer is post-processed by softening the fusion-bonded material.

CLEANING APPARATUS FOR 3D PRINTING STRUCTURE AND CLEANING METHOD FOR 3D PRINTING STRUCTURE USING THE SAME

The present invention is intended to provide a cleaning apparatus for a 3-dimensional (3D) printing structure and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure. To this end, the present invention provides a cleaning apparatus for a 3D printing structure, the cleaning apparatus including a hygroscopic paper supply part supplying a hygroscopic paper while the wound film-type hygroscopic paper is unwound, a hygroscopic paper collecting part winding and collecting the film-type hygroscopic paper, a film-type hygroscopic paper moving in a direction from the supply part to the collecting part between the supply part and the collecting part according to a mutual operation of the supply part and the collecting part, and a support part disposed on an opposite surface of a hygroscopic paper surface, on which the 3D printing structure is disposed, with respect to the film-type hygroscopic paper, and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure, and a cleaning method for a 3D printing structure. According ...

3D PRINTED OPTOFLUIDIC DEVICE AND METHODS OF FABRICATION

Methods and systems for optofluidic device fabrication and design are herein disclosed. In examples, a user may manufacture the optofluidic device using stereolithography (SLA) three-dimensional (3D) printing, in which photosensitive resin is exposed to a focused laser, solidifying specific areas of resin. The optofluidic device may guide light for a broad wavelength range from a liquid or gas channel comprised within and may be used to guide the emission of light and particles of interest to a detector to identify the particles.

Three-dimensional laminating and fabricating system, three-dimensional laminating and fabricating method, laminating and fabricating control apparatus and method of controlling the same, and control program

This invention provides a three-dimensional laminating and fabricating system that can remove the influence of a gas flow between the irradiation positions by a plurality of irradiators. The three-dimensional laminating and fabricating system includes a laminating and fabricating unit that includes a plurality of irradiators configured to irradiate a laminating material, and a remover configured to generate a flow path on a laminated surface and remove dust generated by the irradiated laminating material, to cause the plurality of irradiators to perform irradiation to fabricate each layer of a laminated and fabricated object made of the laminating material as an aggregate of cell regions, and a laminating and fabricating controller that controls selection of each of the cell regions to be irradiated by each of the plurality of irradiators so as to prevent the dust generated in each of the cell regions on an upstream side of the flow path from influencing fabricating in each of the cell ...

Z-AXIS IMPROVEMENT IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

An additive manufacturing method and component having a fill layer material injected into voids as a Z-direction liquid nail or pin to provide a better connection between layers. Rather than depositing a complete layer, the extruder stops extruding at certain sections of the layers to leave a void. This repeats in the same location for the next predetermined number of layers, to create a series of vertically aligned voids in the print. Once the void hole is deep enough, the extruder will go back to this hole after completing the layer and fill it in. When this is done, the material flows down to the bottom of the hole and fill in the hole until it reaches the level of the most recent layer. This can be done a plurality of times on each layer.

CLEANING MECHANISM AND CLEANING METHOD OF 3D PRINTER

A cleaning mechanism of a 3D printer including a cleaning module, a first wiper, a second wiper, and a carrier is provided. The cleaning module has a top plane. The first wiper is arranged corresponding to the cleaning module and protruding beyond the top plane. The second wiper is arranged on the cleaning module and protruding beyond the top plane. The carrier is connected to a rail and suspended above the cleaning module. A modeling nozzle corresponding to the first wiper and a painting pen corresponding to the second wiper are arranged on the carrier and movable. The modeling nozzle and the painting pen are arranged respectively aligned to the first wiper and the second wiper. The modeling nozzle is allowed to move pass the first wiper and bypass the second wiper. The painting pen is allowed to move pass the second wiper and bypass the first wiper. 1. A cleaning mechanism of a 3D printer , comprising:a cleaning module having a top plane;a first wiper arranged corresponding to the cleaning module and protruding beyond the top plane;a second wiper arranged on the cleaning module and protruding beyond the top plane; anda carrier connected to a rail and thereby moveable and suspended above the cleaning module, a modeling nozzle corresponding to the first wiper and a painting pen corresponding to the second wiper being arranged on the carrier and synchronously driven by the carrier to perform a linear shuttle movement;wherein, the modeling nozzle and the painting pen are arranged respectively aligned to the first wiper and the second wiper in a moving direction of the linear shuttle movement, the modeling nozzle is movable to pass and contact the first wiper and bypass the second wiper, the painting pen is movable to pass and contact the second wiper and bypass the first wiper.2. The cleaning mechanism of the 3D printer according to claim 1 , wherein in a direction perpendicular to the top plane claim 1 , a lowest portion of the painting pen is arranged above a lowest ...

Three-dimensional printer tool systems

An extruder or other similar tool head of a three-dimensional printer is slidably mounted along a feedpath of build material so that the extruder can move into and out of contact with a build surface according to whether build material is being extruded. The extruder may be spring-biased against the forward feedpath so that the extruder remains above the build surface in the absence of applied forces, and then moves downward into a position for extrusion when build material is fed into the extruder. In another aspect, modular tool heads are disclosed that can be automatically coupled to and removed from the three-dimensional printer by a suitable robotics system. A tool crib may be provided to store multiple tool heads while not in use.

Irradiation device for an apparatus for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects

Irradiation device (5) for an apparatus (1) for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects (2) by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material (3) which can be consolidated by means of an energy source, which Irradiation device (5) comprises at least one irradiation unit (6-8), preferably an optical unit, arranged in a housing (9) of the Irradiation device (5), wherein a stream generating device (10) is provided that is adapted to guide a gas stream (11) that is adapted to be charged with residues present inside the housing (9) through the housing (9) of the Irradiation device (5) along a streaming path in which the gas stream (11) at least partially streams alongside or through the at least one irradiation unit (6-8) for removing residues from the housing (9).

APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung (1) zur Herstellung dreidimensionaler Objekte (2), insbesondere SLM oder SLS Vorrichtung (selektive Laserschmelzvorrichtung oder selektive Lasersintervorrichtung) im Wesentlichen umfassend einen im einem Gehäuse (3) der Vorrichtung (1) angeordneten Bauraum (4), in welchem eine Auflage (5) zum Tragen des sich bildenden Objektes (2) vorgesehen ist, eine Vorrichtung (9) zum Auftragen von Schichten des Baumaterial (6) auf die Auflage (5) oder einer zuvor gebildeten Schicht, eine Bestrahlungseinrichtung (12) zum selektiven Bestrahlen des aufgetragenen Baumaterials (6) zu dessen Verfestigung, wobei wenigstens ein Strahl (14) der Bestrahlungseinrichtung (12) abhängig von gespeicherten Baudaten auf das Baumaterial (6) geführt ist sowie eine Kameravorrichtung (20) zur optischen Erfassung und/oder Aufzeichnung eines sich im Fokus (17) des Strahls der Bestrahlungseinrichtung (12) bildenden Aufschmelz- oder Verfestigungsprozesses des Baumaterials (6) und/oder ...

HYBRID ELECTROSTATIC 3-D PRINTER USING LASER FUSING

A 3-D printer includes a development station 114 positioned to electrostatically transfer layers of material to an intermediate transfer surface 110, and a transfer station 130 adjacent the intermediate transfer surface 110. The transfer station 130 is positioned to receive the layers as the intermediate transfer surface 110 moves past the transfer station 130. Also, a platen 118 is included that moves relative to the intermediate transfer surface 110. The intermediate transfer surface 110 transfers a layer 102 of the material to the platen 118 each time the platen 118 contacts one of the layers on the intermediate transfer surface 110 at the transfer station 130 to successively form a freestanding stack 106 of the layers on the platen 118. A fusing station 142 is positioned to apply light to each layer, after each layer is transferred from the transfer station 130 to the platen 118. The fusing station 142 selectively applies the light to sinter a portion of the material within the layer ...

DEVICE FOR THE GENERATIVE MANUFACTURING OF COMPONENTS

PRINTING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LED DAM OF DISPLAY PANEL

Provided are a printing device and method for an LED retaining wall of a display panel. The device includes a motion control system, an adsorption apparatus, a measuring system, a Z-axis controller, a target multi-needle module and a target station. The motion control system is configured to control printing of a target LED retaining wall on an upper surface of a target substrate on the target station. The adsorption apparatus is configured to make a lower surface of the target substrate adsorbed onto a sucker by a vacuum pump. The measuring system includes a sensor and a sensor controller, and the sensor is configured to measure flatness data of the target substrate. The Z-axis controller is configured to control a printing receiving distance between the target multi-needle module and the upper surface of the target substrate. The target multi-needle module includes printer heads and fluid control systems, and the fluid control systems are configured to supply preset air pressure parameters ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

An additive manufacturing apparatus includes a support plate including a window. A stage is configured to hold one or more cured layers of the resin to form a component. A radiant energy device positioned on an opposite side of the support plate from the stage and operable to generate and project radiant energy in a patterned image through the window. An actuator is operably coupled with the stage and is configured to move the stage between a curing position and a removal position. The curing position can be offset from the removal position.

СПОСОБ ПРЕДОТВРАЩЕНИЯ НАКОПЛЕНИЯ/ВСАСЫВАНИЯ ТЕКУЧЕЙ СРЕДЫ ПРИ АДДИТИВНОМ ПРОИЗВОДСТВЕ 3D-ОБЪЕКТОВ

Группа изобретений относится к способу подготовки цифровой 3D-модели, а также к машиночитаемому средству хранения, содержащему компьютерную программу. Способ включает систему аддитивного производства, содержащую: устройство (2) аддитивного производства для генерации 3D-объекта (3), соответствующего подготовленной цифровой 3D-модели, присоединенного к платформе (4), которая выполнена с возможностью постепенного перемещения вверх, из жидкой фотоотверждаемой смолы (5a) в ванне (6), и по меньшей мере одно устройство (7) дополнительной обработки для осуществления по меньшей мере одного из промывки, высушивания и отверждения 3D-объекта (3), принятого и поддерживаемого в состоянии присоединения к платформе (4) в ходе дополнительной обработки. Причем способ включает этап, на котором: обеспечивают цифровую 3D-модель в требуемой ориентации печати относительно платформы (4). При этом способ дополнительно включает этапы, на которых: определяют накапливающие текучую среду, чашеобразные, открытые участки ...

СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ОТДЕЛКИ ПОВЕРХНОСТИ ИЗДЕЛИЙ, ИЗГОТОВЛЕННЫХ С ПОМОЩЬЮ 3D-ПЕЧАТИ

СПОСОБ ИЗГОТОВЛЕНИЯ ТРЕХМЕРНОГО ФАСОННОГО ИЗДЕЛИЯ ПОСРЕДСТВОМ ПОСЛОЙНОГО НАНЕСЕНИЯ МАТЕРИАЛА

Изобретение относится к способу изготовления трехмерного фасонного изделия посредством послойного нанесения материала. В способе обеспечивают данные по геометрии фасонного изделия, несущий элемент с опорной поверхностью для размещения трехмерного фасонного изделия, затвердевающий жидкий или текучий первый материал и затвердевающий жидкий, текучий, пастообразный или порошкообразный второй материал. Второй материал включает в себя по меньшей мере один пространственно сшиваемый в результате обработки энергией основной компонент и термически активируемый, скрытый отвердитель, посредством которого в результате теплового воздействия является вызываемым химическое пространственное сшивание основного компонента. Для образования слоя негативной формы порции материала текучего первого материала таким образом наносят в соответствии с данными по геометрии на опорную поверхность и/или на находящийся на ней затвердевший слой материала трехмерного фасонного изделия, что слой негативной формы на своей ...

Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum generativen Herstellen eines dreidimensionalen Objekts

Ein Steuerverfahren dient zum Ansteuern wenigstens einer Verfestigungsvorrichtung (20) einer generativen Herstellvorrichtung (1) zur Herstellung eines dreidimensionalen Objekts (2) mittels eines generativen Schichtbauverfahrens, bei dem wenigstens ein Objekt schichtweise durch wiederholtes Aufbringen einer Schicht eines Aufbaumaterials (15), vorzugsweise eines Pulvers, auf ein Baufeld (8) und durch selektives Verfestigen der aufgebrachten Schicht an Stellen, die einem Querschnitt des herzustellenden Objekts entsprechen, hergestellt wird, und bei dem ein Gas mit mehreren Strömungsrichtungen, die im Wesentlichen nicht gleichgerichtet sind, über das Baufeld strömt. Das Verfahren enthält für zumindest eine zu verfestigende Schicht die Schritte Entgegennehmen und/oder Ermitteln einer Verteilung der Strömungsrichtungen des Gases oberhalb des Baufelds, Zuweisen einer Referenzströmungsrichtung zu einem Bereich des Baufelds in Abhängigkeit von der Verteilung der Strömungsrichtungen oberhalb des ...

Improvements to additive manufacturing

A method

An additive layer manufactured component 100 has wall portions 112 and 110 with a volume 114 between that contains unconsolidated powder material 120. A method for removing the unconsolidated powder 120 involves saturating it with a dipole fluid 130, such as water, preferably by immersion in a water bath 140, then reducing the temperature to below the freezing temperature of the dipole fluid, before allowing the dipole fluid 130 to freeze. The temperature of the saturated unconsolidated powder material 120 is then raised above the melting temperature of the dipole fluid 130, perhaps in an oven 160, whereupon the powder 120 may be removed from the volume, preferably through an aperture 116. The powder 120 may be removed using a vibratory plate 170, or pressure washing, using an ultrasonic bath or by applying acoustic energy. The method may be controlled by a computer program 182 or computer readable instructions from a readable storage medium 184 or a communication medium such as a signal ...

Method for unpacking a 3d printing part

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Entpacken zumindest eines mittels eines generativen Fertigungsverfahrens hergestellten Bauteils (2) aus einer Partikelmaterial- Schüttung aus nicht verfestigtem Partikelmaterial (3), wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) gemeinsam mit dem zumindest einen Bauteil (2) in einer, in Vertikalrichtung nach oben geöffneten und durch einen oberen Rand (6), sowie nach unten durch eine Bodenplatte (4), sowie seitlich durch eine Umwandung (5) begrenzte, Baubox (1) angeordnet ist, wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) fluidisiert wird und das zumindest eine Bauteil (2) mittels einer Abtransportvorrichtung (8) von der Baubox (1) abtransportiert wird, und wobei das nicht verfestigte Partikelmaterial (3) in der Baubox (1) verbleibt.

Nachbearbeitungssystem und -verfahren

System (1) und Verfahren zur Reinigung und/oder Nachbelichtung eines mittels eines additiven Herstellungsverfahrens aus einer durch Strahlung härtbaren Substanz hergestellten Körpers (2), wobei das System (1) eine Reinigungswanne (13) zur Reinigung des Körpers (2) und/oder eine Belichtungskammer zur Nachbelichtung des Körpers (2) aufweist, wobei das System (1) weiters eine Transporteinrichtung (4) mit einem Antrieb (17) zur Bewegung einer Bauplattform (3) relativ zur Reinigungswanne (13) und/oder zur Belichtungskammer aufweist, wobei die Transporteinrichtung (4) einen Kraftsensor (18) aufweist, wobei der Kraftsensor (18) zur Erfassung einer auf die Bauplattform (3) wirkenden Kraft eingerichtet und mit einer Verarbeitungseinheit (19) zur Steuerung des Antriebs (17) und/oder zur Ausgabe von Prozessparametern auf Basis des Kraftsignals verbunden ist; und wobei im Rahmen des Verfahrens der Körper (2) an einer Bauplattform (3) von einer Transporteinrichtung (4) mit einem Antrieb (17) relativ ...

Transportable assembly unit for an additive manufacturing device

Transportable assembly unit for attachment to a stereolithographic additive manufacturing device (1), comprising a component carrier (45) for an additive manufacturing device (1), wherein the component carrier (45) comprises a construction surface (7), on which a component (8) to be manufactured is disposed during the operation of the manufacturing device (1), wherein the component carrier (45) comprises a sealing surface (14) which radially surrounds the construction surface (7), the transportable assembly unit further comprising a container (5), wherein the component carrier (3) is adapted for placement onto the container (5) as a lid; and method for post-processing a component (8) manufactured according to an additive manufacturing process using such a component carrier (3).

METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF ELEMENTS OBTAINED BY AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS

A method for treatment of elements obtained by an additive manufacturing process comprises applying on the element a treating agent in liquid or gaseous form.

Full-color 3D printer facilitating paint cleaning

A piezo-electric control of the ionic wind forming device

3D Printing equipment of continuous fiber reinforced silicone rubber

3D printer for flexible manufacturing

SLS printer of area clearance mechanism

Filterable formula 3D printer

Containment hood

A containment hood may include a first shell portion, a second shell portion and a lid portion. The first shell portion may include a first interior-facing surface. The second shell portion may be spaced apart from the first shell portion and may include a second interior-facing surface. The first and second interior-facing surfaces may oppose each other. The lid portion may extend between and engage the first and second shell portions. The lid portion may cooperate with the first and second shell portions to form at least a partial enclosure defining an interior volume. The first and second shell portions and the lid portion may cooperate to define a first opening through which a user is able to access the interior volume.

Support Structure Removal System

A support structure removal system comprising a vessel and a second component. The vessel comprises a vessel body, a porous floor configured to retain a three-dimensional part, and an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor. The second component comprises a surface configured to operably receive the vessel, and a rotation-inducing assembly located below the surface, where the rotation-inducing assembly is configured to rotate the impeller with magnetic fields when the vessel is received on the surface of the second component to agitate and direct flows of an aqueous fluid through the porous floor.

Rapid prototyping apparatus

Apparatus for producing an object by sequentially forming thin layers of a construction material one on top of the other responsive to data defining the object, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of printing heads each having a surface formed with a plurality of output orifices and controllable to dispense the construction material through each orifice independently of the other orifices; a shuttle to which the printing heads are mounted; a support surface; and a controller adapted to control the shuttle to move back and forth over the support surface and as the shuttle moves to control the printing heads to dispense the construction material through each of their respective orifices responsive to the data to form a first layer on the support surface and thereafter, sequentially the other layers; wherein each printing head is dismountable from the shuttle and replaceable independently of the other printing heads.

SHIPPING AND HANDLING FLUID FOR A THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTER

An example of a shipping and handling fluid for a three-dimensional (3D) printer is disclosed. The shipping and handling fluid includes a co-solvent, a first sugar alcohol, a second sugar alcohol, a surfactant, and a balance of water. The first sugar alcohol includes a ring structure, and the second sugar alcohol has a linear structure. 1. A shipping and handling fluid for a three-dimensional (3D) printer , comprising:a co-solvent;a first sugar alcohol including a ring structure;a second sugar alcohol having a linear structure;a surfactant; anda balance of water.2. The shipping and handling fluid as defined in wherein:the first sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of maltitol, lactitol, isomalt, and combinations thereof; andthe second sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of xylitol, erythritol, sorbitol, mannitol, and combinations thereof.3. The shipping and handling fluid as defined in wherein:the first sugar alcohol is present in an amount ranging from about 15 wt % to about 30 wt %, based on a total weight of the shipping and handling fluid; andthe second sugar alcohol is present in an amount ranging from about 10 wt % to about 25 wt %, based on the total weight of the shipping and handling fluid.4. The shipping and handling fluid as defined in wherein a combination of the first sugar alcohol and the second sugar alcohol exhibits thermal stability at a temperature from about 160° C. to about 300° C. claim 3 , and wherein the combination of the first sugar alcohol and the second sugar alcohol is present in an amount less than 45 wt % based on the total weight of the shipping and handling fluid.5. The shipping and handling fluid as defined in wherein a total solids content is less than 45 wt % claim 1 , based on a total weight of the shipping and handling fluid.6. The shipping and handling fluid as defined in wherein:a viscosity of the shipping and handling fluid ranges from about 6 cP to <10 cP; or{'sup': '3', 'a density of the ...

Three-Dimensional Printing System with Multi-Fluid Servicing Module

A three-dimensional printing system includes a printhead having an ejection face with nozzles for ejecting different printing fluids, a movement mechanism coupled to the printhead, a fluid supply coupled to the printhead, a maintenance module, and a controller. The maintenance module includes a purge platform, a wiper, and a spittoon. The controller is configured to: (a) receive a new print job; (b) activate the movement mechanism to position the ejection face over the purge platform; (c) activate the fluid supply to at least partially fill a space between the ejection face and the purge platform with fluid; (d) activate the movement mechanism to translate the ejection face over the wiper to remove excess fluid; (e) activate the movement mechanism to position the ejection face over the spittoon; (f) activate the plurality of nozzles to eject drops into the spittoon until the received mixture is expelled from the nozzles. 1. A three-dimensional printing system comprising:a printhead having an ejection face with a plurality of nozzles for ejecting a plurality of different printing fluids;a movement mechanism coupled to the printhead;a fluid supply containing the plurality of different printing fluids coupled to the printhead; a purge platform;', 'a wiper; and', 'a spittoon; and, 'a maintenance module including (a) receive a new print job;', '(b) activate the movement mechanism to position the ejection face over the purge platform;', '(c) activate the fluid supply to flood a space between the ejection face and the purge platform with fluid, the nozzles receive a mixture of the different printing fluids;', '(d) activate the movement mechanism to translate the ejection face over the wiper to remove excess fluid;', '(e) activate the movement mechanism to position the ejection face over the spittoon; and', '(f) activate the plurality of nozzles to eject drops into the spittoon until the received mixture is expelled from the nozzles., 'a controller configured to2. The three ...

Three-Dimensional Printing System with High Capacity Servicing Module

A three dimensional printer includes a printhead, a movement mechanism coupled to the printhead, a maintenance module, and a controller. The printhead includes an ejection face with a plurality of nozzles for ejecting droplets of printing fluid. The maintenance module includes a maintenance tray and an effluent tray. The maintenance tray has a lateral periphery and an upper side including a storage cap, a wiper, and a spittoon. The effluent tray has a lateral periphery, underlies the maintenance tray, and receives accumulated fluid from the maintenance tray. The periphery of the maintenance tray and the periphery of the effluent tray interengage when the maintenance tray is removably mounted over the effluent tray. The controller is configured to operate the printhead, the maintenance module, and the movement mechanism to provide printing and printhead maintenance. 1. A three-dimensional printing system comprising:a printhead including an ejection face with a plurality of nozzles for ejecting droplets of printing fluid;a movement mechanism coupled to the printhead; a maintenance tray having a lateral periphery and an upper side including a storage cap, a wiper, and a spittoon; and', 'an effluent tray having a lateral periphery and underlying the maintenance tray, the effluent tray receiving accumulated fluid from the maintenance tray;', 'the periphery of the maintenance tray and the periphery of the effluent tray interengage when the maintenance tray is removably mounted over the effluent tray; and, 'a maintenance module for maintaining the printhead including operate the printhead and the maintenance module to prepare the printhead for printing;', 'operate the movement mechanism and the printhead to dispense layers of fluid; and', 'operate the movement mechanism and the maintenance module to engage the cap against the ejection face after printing., 'a controller configured to2. The three-dimensional printing system of wherein the periphery of the maintenance tray ...

Powder recirculating additive manufacturing apparatus and method

A method of making a part by an additive manufacturing process includes the steps of: (a) supporting a build platform on a support surface; (b) traversing a powder dispenser positioned above the support surface across the build platform, while dispensing powder from the powder dispenser, so as to deposit the powder over the build platform; (c) traversing the build platform with a scraper to scrape the deposited powder, so as to form a layer increment of powder; (d) using a directed energy source to fuse the layer increment of powder in a pattern corresponding to a cross-sectional layer of the part; and (e) repeating in a cycle steps (b) through (d) to build up the part in a layer-by-layer fashion.

DEBINDING OF 3D OBJECTS

3D-printed parts may include binding agents to be removed following an additive manufacturing process. A debinding process removes the binding agents by immersing the part in a solvent bath causing chemical dissolution of the binding agents. The time of exposure of the 3D-printed part to the solvent is determined based on the geometry of the part, wherein the geometry is applied to predict the diffusion of the solvent through the 3D-printed part. The 3D-printed part is then immersed in the solvent bath to remove the binding agent, and is removed from the solvent bath after the time of exposure. 120-. (canceled)21. A method of determining a debinding time of a printed part or a model of a part , the method comprising:receiving data about the printed part or the model of the part;determining an effective thickness of the printed part or the model of the part by defining a geometry of a sphere having a volume that is occupied within an internal volume of the printed part or the model of the part; andcalculating a debinding time based on the effective thickness.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the sphere is a largest sphere capable of being entirely encompassed by the internal volume of the printed part or the model of the part claim 21 , and wherein the effective thickness is proportional to a radius of the largest sphere.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein defining the geometry of the sphere having the volume that is occupied within the internal volume of the printed part or the model of the part comprises:generating a random sampling of points within a geometry of the printed part or the model of the part;calculating, for each of the points, a distance from the point to a closest surface of the printed part or the model of the part; anddetermining a maximum of the calculated distances.24. The method of claim 23 , wherein the maximum of the calculated distances is proportional to the effective thickness of the printed part or the model of the part.25. The method ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHOD

A method for producing a three-dimensional component having one or more cavities by powder-based additive manufacturing, such as selective laser melting or electron beam melting, using an additive manufacturing machine. The method includes creating 3D-CAD-data of the component to be produced using a computer-aided design method; b) identifying the cavities of the component in the 3D-CAD-data and verifying, that each cavity has at least one outlet passage connecting the cavity to the outer environment of the component, wherein, if there is no such outlet passage, it is created within the 3D-CAD-data; c) producing the component on a construction platform of the additive manufacturing machine on the basis of the 3D-CAD-data; d) removing powder present within the cavities and within the outlet passages through the outlet passages and e) heat-treating the construction platform and the component arranged thereon in a heat treatment oven. 1. A method for producing a three-dimensional component having one or more cavities by powder-based additive manufacturing , using an additive manufacturing machine , said method comprising:a) creating 3D-CAD-data of the component to be produced using a computer-aided design method, wherein said 3D-CAD-data are suitable to be processed by the additive manufacturing machine;b) identifying the cavities of the component in the 3D-CAD-data and verifying, that each cavity has at least one outlet passage connecting the cavity to an outer environment of the component, wherein, if there is no such outlet passage, it is created within the 3D-CAD-data;c) producing the component on a construction platform of the additive manufacturing machine on the basis of the 3D-CAD-data;d) removing powder present within the cavities and within the outlet passages through said outlet passages; and 'wherein at least the sub-steps of step b) of identifying the cavities of the component within the 3D-CAD-data and of verifying, that each cavity has at least one ...

Forming device for producing moulded bodies by selectively hardening powder material

The invention relates to a forming device for producing moulded bodies by selectively hardening powder material to form connected regions, comprising a process chamber ( 28 ) having a powder inlet ( 32 ) for powder material to be processed, and a powder outlet ( 36 ) for excess powder material, a powder supply apparatus ( 80, 82 ) that is or can be connected to the powder inlet ( 32 ) and is intended for providing powder material in the process chamber ( 28 ), and a powder recovery apparatus ( 74 ) that is or can be connected to the powder outlet ( 36 ) and is intended for recycling powder material to be processed out of the excess powder material, wherein the powder supply apparatus ( 80, 82 ) and the powder recovery apparatus ( 74 ) are combined to form a subassembly that is designed as an interchangeable module ( 16 ) and comprises connection interfaces, specifically at least one input interface ( 46 ) an at least one output interface ( 48 ), that are connection-compatible with relevant connection interfaces ( 40, 44 ) of the powder inlet ( 32 ) and powder outlet ( 36 ) of the process chamber ( 28 ) such that excess powder can be fed out of the process chamber ( 28 ) through the powder outlet ( 36 ) thereof to the powder recovery apparatus ( 74 ) by means of the at least one input interface ( 46 ), and such that powder material prepared by the powder recovery apparatus ( 74 ) can be fed to the process chamber ( 28 ) through the powder inlet ( 32 ) thereof by means of the at least one output interface ( 48 ).

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MACHINE COMPRISING A POWDER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM HAVING A TRAY AND AN INJECTOR

A machine is provided for the additive manufacture of a part by complete or partial selective melting of a powder, the machine including: a horizontal working plane; at least one spreading device; at least one system for dispensing powder over the working plane comprising at least one slide for receiving powder and at least one powder injector, the receiving slide being movable in translation, with respect to the working plane, and the injector being positioned above the receiving slide, so as to dispense powder over the receiving slide which is moving between a retracted position and a deployed position. 1. A machine for the additive manufacture of a part by complete or partial selective melting of a powder , the machine comprising:a horizontal working plane configured to receive a powder layer;at least one spreading device for spreading the said powder layer over the working plane, which device is movable with respect to the working plane along a trajectory over the working plane, the trajectory comprising at least one component parallel to a longitudinal horizontal direction;at least one deposition system for deposition of powder on the working plane, the deposition system comprising (a) at least one slide for receiving powder and (b) at least one powder injector,wherein the receiving slide is movable in translation, with respect to the working plane, along at least one transverse horizontal direction, between (a) a retracted position in which the receiving slide extends outside the trajectory of the spreading device over the working plane and (b) a deployed position in which the receiving slide extends at least in part into the trajectory of the spreading device over the working plane, andwherein the injector is positioned above the receiving slide, so as to dispense powder over the receiving slide which is moving between the retracted position and the deployed position.2. A machine according to claim 1 , wherein the deposition system is removable with respect ...

AUTOMATIC MECHANICAL SPOOL CHANGER FOR 3-D PRINTERS

An automatic mechanical spool changer for 3-D printers includes a filament guide and a pre-loading device. The input to the filament guide receives at least a primary filament from a primary spool and a secondary filament from a secondary spool. The output from the filament guide connects to an extruder, and the output from the filament guide sequentially and automatically provides the primary filament and then the secondary filament to the extruder. The pre-loading device exerts a pre-loaded force on the secondary filament during the extrusion of the primary filament. After the primary filament passes a predetermined location within the filament guide, the force exerted on the secondary filament threads the secondary filament through the output of the filament guide and into the extruder. 1. A device for automatically loading into a 3-D printer extruder a refill filament to replace a first filament , the device comprising:a filament guide including a first input configured to receive the first filament, a refill input configured to receive the refill filament, and an output configured to sequentially output to the extruder the first filament and then the refill filament.2. The device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the filament guide includes a Y-junction at a bottom of which paths from the first input and the refill input meet.3. A filament refilling system for automatically loading into a 3-D printer extruder a refill filament to replace a first filament claim 1 , the filament refilling system comprising:a filament guide configured to receive the first filament, receive the refill filament, and output received filaments to the extruder; anda preloading device configured to exert a first force on the refill filament in a direction towards the filament guide and the extruder, which first force, when exerted on the refill filament, causes the refill filament to automatically travel through the filament guide and into the extruder upon removal of a blocking force by ...

Recoaters with gas flow management

An additive manufacturing device includes a recoater configured to push powder onto a build platform. The recoater defines an advancing direction for pushing powder. A first baffle is mounted to a first end of a leading edge of the recoater and a second baffle mounted to a second end of the leading edge of the recoater opposite the first end. Each of the first and second baffles includes a base mounted to the recoater, a first wall that extends obliquely ahead of and laterally outward from the base relative to the advancing direction, and a second wall opposite the first wall. The second wall extends obliquely ahead of and laterally inward from the base relative to the advancing direction. A volume is defined between the first and second wall with capacity to collect powder as the recoater advances.

Methods for photo-curing photo-sensitive material for printing and other applications

Methods and systems for forming objects through photo-curing of a liquid resin in a tank by selective exposure (through a mask) to radiation, in which during printing operations the liquid resin in the tank is displaced relative to the build area along an axis orthogonal to that along which the object is extracted from the liquid resin in the tank. A volume of the photo-curing liquid resin may be cycled through a cooling arrangement by being extracted from the tank, cooled, and then reintroduced into the tank as printing of the object is taking place. The mask is preferably one in which charged colorant particles are dispersed in an optically transparent fluid within a plurality of bi-state cells.

MANUFACTURING MACHINE

A manufacturing machine is a manufacturing machine capable of additive manufacturing. The manufacturing machine includes: an additive-manufacturing head configured to be movable in a machining area and to discharge material powder toward a workpiece and irradiate the workpiece with an energy beam; and a powder chute configured to be movable in the machining area and to receive material powder discharged from the additive-manufacturing head toward the workpiece and failing to attach to the workpiece. There is provided the manufacturing machine configured in the above-described manner to be capable of efficiently collecting material powder having failed to attach to the workpiece during additive manufacturing. 1. A manufacturing machine capable of additive manufacturing , the manufacturing machine comprising:an additive-manufacturing head configured to be movable in a machining area and to discharge material powder toward a workpiece and irradiate the workpiece with an energy beam; anda material powder receiver configured to be movable in the machining area and to receive material powder discharged from the additive-manufacturing head toward the workpiece and failing to attach to the workpiece.2. The manufacturing machine according to claim 1 , whereinthe manufacturing machine is capable of subtractive manufacturing in addition to additive manufacturing,the manufacturing machine further comprises:a tool holder configured to be movable in the machining area and to hold a tool for subtractive manufacturing for a workpiece; anda workpiece holder configured to be movable in the machining area and to hold a workpiece, andthe material powder receiver is made movable in the machining area by being coupled to at least one of the tool holder and the workpiece holder.3. The manufacturing machine according to claim 1 , whereinthe manufacturing machine is capable of subtractive manufacturing in addition to additive manufacturing, andthe material powder receiver is configured to ...

POWDER REMOVAL ENCLOSURE FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED COMPONENTS

Various embodiments of the invention include an apparatus for removing particulates from the surface of a 3D printed workpiece. Various particular embodiments include a material removal apparatus having: an enclosure having a first inlet and a first outlet; a rotatable platform contained within the enclosure for positioning a 3D printed workpiece having particulate on a surface thereof; a pressurized fluid applicator connected to the first inlet and configured to selectively apply a pressurized fluid to the 3D printed workpiece; a vibration source configured to apply an adjustable vibratory frequency to at least one of the rotatable platform or the 3D printed workpiece; and a material reclamation unit connected to the first outlet configured to collect a material removed from the 3D printed workpiece. 1. A material removal apparatus comprising:an enclosure having a first inlet and a first outlet;a rotatable platform contained within the enclosure for positioning a 3D printed workpiece having particulate on a surface thereof;a pressurized fluid applicator connected to the first inlet and configured to selectively apply a pressurized fluid to the 3D printed workpiece;a vibration source configured to apply an adjustable vibratory frequency to at least one of the rotatable platform or the 3D printed workpiece; anda material reclamation unit connected to the first outlet configured to collect a material removed from the 3D printed workpiece.2. The material removal apparatus of claim 1 , having a second inlet and a vacuum unit connected thereto for applying a vacuum to the 3D printed workpiece.3. The material removal apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the vibration source includes a mechanical actuator.4. The material removal apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the vibration source includes an acoustic frequency generator.5. The material removal apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a glove box configured to allow a user to operate the pressurized fluid applicator inside the ...

METAL WIRE FEEDING SYSTEM

Provided are a systems and methods for continuously providing a metal wire to a welding torch for manufacturing objects by solid freeform fabrication to provide continuous deposition of metal to the freeform object, especially objects made with titanium or titanium alloy wire. 1. A metal wire feeding system , comprising:a positionally adjustable wire supply spool;a cabinet comprising an entry wire position detector containing an aperture;a wire feeding device comprising a first motorized grooved roller, a first passive grooved roller, and a first motor attached to the first motorized grooved roller, wherein the first motorized grooved roller and the first passive grooved roller form a channel therebetween;a combination of at least three slack wire guides, wherein a first slack wire guide is positioned after the wire feeding device an in line therewith, a second slack wire guide positioned to the right of and below the first slack wire guide, and a third slack wire guide positioned to the left of and below the first slackwire guide;a slack wire pulling device comprising a second motorized grooved roller, a second passive grooved roller, and a second motor attached to the second motorized grooved roller, wherein the second motorized grooved roller and the second passive grooved roller form a channel therebetween; anda cabinet exit guide.2. The metal wire feeding system of claim 1 , where: a first dual grooved roller having a first and second groove, the roller being attached to a first arm pivotally connected to a back plate of the cabinet; and', 'a second dual grooved roller having a first and second groove, where the first groove of the first grooved roller and the first groove of the second grooved roller form a channel therebetween, and the first groove of the first dual grooved roller is biased by a spring on the first arm connected to a first support connected to the back plate of the cabinet;, 'the first slack wire guide comprises a third passive grooved roller ...

WASHING APPARATUS FOR 3D-PRINTED ARTICLES

A washing apparatus for a 3D-printed article is provided for the removal of support material from the article. The apparatus includes a glove isolation cabinet with a liquid-discharging nozzle to enable an operator to spray an article with a washing liquid, and a drain. A first filter arrangement receives liquid discharged from the cabinet. The washing liquid drains through the first filter arrangement under the influence of gravity but the first filter arrangement is located in a trough in which washing liquid that has passed through the first filter arrangement accumulates whereby, in use, one or more filters of the first filter arrangement are submerged to ensure filtered-out residue remains submerged in the washing liquid. A pump is provided to pump liquid that has passed through the first filter arrangement through a second filter arrangement adapted to filter out solid material equal to or greater than 5 μm in size. 1. A washing apparatus for a 3D-printed article for removing support material from the article comprising:a glove isolation cabinet provided with a liquid-discharging nozzle to enable an operator to spray an article located in the cabinet with a washing liquid and a drain;a platform removably provided within the glove isolation cabinet on which said article to be washed is located, the platform comprising a tray above which is mounted a support plate on which the article sits; anda first filter arrangement that receives washing liquid discharged from the cabinet via the drain and through which the washing liquid drains under the influence of gravity;2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the tray comprises a flat plate with a raised edge forming a weir over which the washing liquid can cascade but which predominantly retains solid particles in the tray.3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the flat plate of the tray is covered by a mat.4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a plurality of rollers is mounted in the ...

SHAPING DEVICE, SHAPING METHOD, AND SHAPING SYSTEM

A shaping device, that shapes a three-dimensional object, includes an ink jet head that discharges an ink to become a material of shaping; and an ink supplying unit that supplies a pre-toned ink, which is the ink toned in advance in accordance with a color to be colored on the 3D object, to the ink jet head, where the ink jet head forms at least one part of the 3D object while coloring the one part with the color of the pre-toned ink by discharging the pre-toned ink. 1. A shaping device that shapes a three-dimensional object , the shaping device comprising:an ink jet head that discharges an ink to become a material of shaping; andan ink supplying unit that supplies a pre-toned ink, which is the ink toned in advance in accordance with a color to be colored on the three-dimensional object, to the ink jet head, whereinthe ink jet head forms at least one part of the three-dimensional object while coloring the at least one part with the color of the pre-toned ink by discharging the pre-toned ink.2. The shaping device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one part of the three-dimensional object is formed using only the pre-toned ink.3. The shaping device according to claim 1 , wherein the pre-toned ink is an ink in which a density of a color is further adjusted in accordance with a density of a color to be colored on the three-dimensional object.4. The shaping device according to claim 3 , wherein the pre-toned ink is an ink in which the color is toned by mixing an ink of a color of a plurality of chromatic colors claim 3 , and in which a density of a color is adjusted by further mixing an ink for diluting the density of the color.5. The shaping device according to claim 4 , wherein the ink for diluting the density of the color is a clear ink.6. The shaping device according to claim 2 , wherein the pre-toned ink is an ink in which a density of a color is further adjusted in accordance with a density of a color to be colored on the three-dimensional object.7. The ...

POWDER MASS ESTIMATES DURING POWDER RECOVERY

An example of an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a vacuum source to draw gas and a build material from a build process. The apparatus includes a filter to separate the build material from the gas. A filtered portion of the build material is to be deposited on the filter and a collected portion of the build material is to be redirected. The apparatus includes a storage container to receive the collected portion of the build material. The apparatus includes a mass estimation engine to determine a total mass of the build material. The mass estimation engine is to estimate a mass of the filtered portion. 1. An apparatus comprising:a vacuum source to draw gas and a build material from a build chamber;a storage container to receive a collected portion of the build material;a filter to allow the gas to pass therethrough, to redirect the collected portion of the build material to the storage container, and to collect a filtered portion of the build material on a filter membrane at a rate of accumulation; anda mass estimation engine to determine a mass of the filtered portion based on the rate of accumulation.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a powder recovery mechanism claim 1 , wherein the powder recovery mechanism is to release the filtered portion into the storage container.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the powder recovery mechanism operates periodically.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the powder recovery mechanism operates based on a pressure drop across the filter.5. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the powder recovery mechanism is an actuator to shake the filter.6. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising a load cell mounted below the storage container claim 2 , the load cell to measure a weight of the build material in the storage container.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the mass estimation engine is to calculate an actual mass of the filtered portion from a weight difference with the load cell after an ...

METHOD OF FORMING AN OBJECT USING 3D PRINTING

A 3D printer includes a build plate providing a surface on which an object is printed. Prior to printing, a sheet is fixed to the surface of the build plate. The sheet is composed of a material that adheres to a binder component of the feedstock used to print the object. During printing, the first layer of the printed object forms a bond with the sheet, which secures the location of the first layer and resists movement of the object during printing. Following printing and the object gaining sufficient rigidity, the object and sheet can be removed together from the printer. The sheet may then be peeled from the object, and the object can undergo debinding and/or sintering to create a finished object. 120-. (canceled)21. A method of forming an object using additive manufacturing , the method comprising:securing a base sheet to a top surface of a build plate of a three-dimensional (3D) printer, wherein an outer perimeter of the base sheet defines a print area;printing a first layer of a build material, including a metal powder and a binder material, in the print area;printing additional layers of the build material above the first layer layer-by-layer, wherein the first layer and the additional layers collectively form the object; andseparating the base sheet and the object,wherein the base sheet includes at least one component that is also included in the binder material, and wherein the at least one component in the base sheet adheres to the at least one component in the binder material.22. The method according to claim 21 , wherein the separating step includes removing the base sheet from the top surface of the build plate claim 21 , and peeling the base sheet from the object.23. The method according to claim 21 , further comprising:de-binding at least a portion of the binder material from the object after separating the base sheet and the object; andsintering the object.24. The method according to claim 21 , wherein the at least one component includes one or more ...

Biomanufacturing System, Method, and 3D Bioprinting Hardware in a Reduced Gravity Environment

A method, apparatus, and system are provided for the printing and maturation of living tissue in an Earth-referenced reduced gravity environment such as that found on a spacecraft or on other celestial bodies. The printing may be three-dimensional structures. The printed structures may be manufactured from low viscosity biomaterials. 1. A bioreactor for receiving a printed tissue comprising:a housing defining a volume therein;a print platform within the volume of the housing;an intake manifold and an outlet manifold positioned in the volume of the housing;wherein each one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold includes one or more ports adapted to be in fluid communication with a printed tissue within the housing.2. The bioreactor of wherein at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold includes an electrical stimulation device.3. The bioreactor of wherein the electrical stimulation device includes a conductive material positioned on one or more surfaces of the at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold.4. The bioreactor of wherein the conductive material includes one or more needles projecting and adapted to engage a printed tissue.5. The bioreactor of wherein at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold includes one or more needles defining the one or more ports.6. The bioreactor of wherein at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold includes one or more channels in communication with the one or more ports.7. The bioreactor of wherein at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold are moveable relative to each other.8. The bioreactor of further comprising a drive mechanism moving the at least one of the intake manifold and the outlet manifold.9. The bioreactor of further comprising one or more air traps in fluid communication with the one or more ports.10. The bioreactor of further comprising one or more detachable feed bags and waste bags.11. A bioreactor for receiving a printed ...

Self-Modifying Apparatus For Rotational Support Structure Removal In 3D Printed Parts Using Calibrated Resonant Frequency

A process for removing support material from a part made by an additive manufacturing process is disclosed. The part may be arranged in a media filled tank. Ultrasonic waves are directed for the part and/or support material. Ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic transducer are applied to a part or support material and cause the part to vibrate. The frequency of the ultrasonic energy may be tuned to cause the part and/or the support material to vibrate at its resonant frequency. The support material may have different properties, such as density, geometry, material, or porosity. Such differences may allow the support material to resonate in response to the applied ultrasonic energy waves at a different ultrasonic frequency than, the part itself.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR BLOCKAGE REMOVAL IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTERS

Methods of printing using three dimensional printers are disclosed. The method includes feeding a printable material through a linear feed mechanism to a print head, detecting the printable material is jammed in the three-dimensional printer, and operating, in response to detecting that the printable material is jammed, the three-dimensional printer in a jam clearing mode. The jam clearing mode includes advancing a drive component of the linear feed mechanism, retracting the drive component of the linear feed mechanism, and repeating the advancing and retracting of the drive component of the linear feed mechanism. Three-dimensional printing systems are also disclosed. A three-dimensional printing system includes a print head, a linear feed mechanism operatively coupled to the print head, and a controller operatively coupled to the three-dimensional printing system. 1. A method of printing using a three-dimensional printer , the method comprising:feeding a printable material through a linear feed mechanism to a print head;detecting that the printable material is jammed in the three-dimensional printer; and advancing a drive component of the linear feed mechanism,', 'retracting the drive component of the linear feed mechanism, and', 'repeating the advancing and retracting of the drive component of the linear feed mechanism, wherein one advancing step and one retracting step comprises one cycle of the jam clearing mode., 'operating, in response to detecting that the printable material is jammed, the three-dimensional printer in a jam clearing mode, the jam clearing mode comprising2. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting the jammed printable material includes detecting a force applied to the printable material by the drive component of the linear feed mechanism.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein detecting the force includes detecting a change in the motion of an idle component of the linear feed mechanism.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the advancing of the drive ...

COATING PART PRECURSORS

In a coating method example, a coating is formed on a part precursor by blasting the part precursor with a blast medium. The blast medium includes blasting beads and a coating agent. The part precursor is formed from a polymeric build material, and a hardness of the blasting beads is greater than a hardness of the polymeric build material. 1. A coating method , comprising: blasting beads; and', 'a coating agent;, 'forming a coating on a part precursor by blasting the part precursor with a blast medium, the blast medium includingwherein the part precursor is formed from a polymeric build material, and a hardness of the blasting beads is greater than a hardness of the polymeric build material.2. The method as defined in wherein the coating agent is selected from the group consisting of graphite claim 1 , molybdenum disulfide claim 1 , and polytetrafluoroethylene.3. The method as defined in wherein the coating agent is present in an amount ranging from greater than 0 wt % to about 0.4 wt % based on a total wt % of the blast medium.4. The method as defined in wherein the hardness of the blasting beads is from about 2 units to about 5 units greater than the hardness of the polymeric build material on a Mohs scale of hardness.5. The method as defined in wherein a particle size of the blasting beads ranges from about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm.6. The method as defined in wherein a size distribution of the coating agent is 20 μm≤D90≤70 μm claim 1 , and D90 is an average particle size that about 90% of particles of the coating agent are smaller than.7. The method as defined in wherein the blasting beads are selected from the group consisting garnet blasting beads claim 1 , glass blasting beads claim 1 , alumina blasting beads claim 1 , steel blasting beads claim 1 , coal slag blasting beads claim 1 , silicon carbide blasting beads claim 1 , and combinations thereof.8. The method as defined in wherein the coating agent has a springback value that is less than about 20%.9. The ...

3D PRINTER

A 3D printer including two tanks, a powder spreading mechanism and a transport assembly is provided. A tank opening is defined on each tank, and an elevating mechanism is arranged in each tank. The powder spreading mechanism is able to move across the tank openings, one of the tanks contains powders for supplying the powders, and the powder spreading mechanism push the powders into the other tank. The transport assembly includes a carrying plate and a covering case, the carrying plate is arranged on the elevating mechanism in the tank for powder supplying, multiple insertion holes are defined at the carrying plate, a case opening is defined at the covering case, the covering case covers on the corresponding tank opening, multiple movable latches for correspondingly inserted in the respective insertion holes are arranged at the case opening, and the powders are allowed to be contained in the covering case. 1. A 3D printer , comprising:two tanks, a tank opening being defined on a top of each tank, and an elevating mechanism being arranged in each tank and movable between the tank opening and a bottom of the corresponding tank;a powder spreading mechanism arranged corresponding to the tank openings and being movable across an area defined by the tank openings, one of the tanks contains powders for supplying the powders, and the powder spreading mechanism pushes the powders into the tank opening of the other tank for a modeling process; anda transport assembly comprising a carrying plate and a covering case, the carrying plate being detachably arranged on the elevating mechanism in the tank for supplying the powder, a plurality of insertion holes being defined at an edge of the carrying plate, a case opening being defined at bottom of the covering case, the covering case covering on the corresponding tank opening and the tank opening being communicated with the corresponding case opening, the case opening being of a shape corresponding to the carrying plate, a plurality ...

5d part growing machine with volumetric display technology

Methods and systems of and for using volumetric display technology including volumetric display technology to create three-dimensional objects for various industries, including, but not limited to solar, automotive and/or other technological areas that use 3D printing or additive manufacturing.

Sweep gas systems

A sweep gas system for an additive manufacturing machine can include a gas manifold having an outlet configured to effuse gas into a build area of the additive manufacturing machine. The gas manifold can be moveable across at least a portion of the build area. The sweep gas system can include a controller configured to control a position of the gas manifold.

Powder Fluidization for Use in Additive Manufacturing for Object Removal and Removal of Powder from Object

A removal method for an object of manufacture after a powder-based additive manufacturing process. The object is made in a build box, in which powder is fused using a powder-based additive manufacturing process. A fluid is delivered into the build box, the fluid having a pressure and composition suitable for fluidizing powder not used for manufacture of the object. This results in fluidization of the powder in the build box, from which the object may easily be extracted.

Method for managing a powder in an additive manufacturing facility comprising a plurality of machines

An additive-manufacturing facility and a method for managing a powder transported to and from additive-manufacturing machines of the facility are provided. According to the method, a volume of feedstock powder is stored, and the machines are automatically fed with powder from the volume of feedstock powder. For each machine, the powder fed to the machine undergoes at least one layering operation during an additive-manufacturing cycle, and excess powder in the layering operation is moved away and conveyed from the machine to the volume of feedstock powder. For each machine, recovered powder, which is derived from cleaning rough components produced by the machine, is reintroduced into the volume of feedstock powder. A same collection circuit is used to convey the excess powder and the recovered powder to the volume of feedstock powder.

AN APPARATUS AND A METHOD FOR DETERMINING A QUANTITY OF MATERIAL

According to one example, there is provided a method of determining characteristics of a build material. The method comprises obtaining a first quantity of a first build material, determining, for the first build material, the proportion of non-marked build material and marked build material, determining, based on the determined proportion, a first quantity of the first build material to be combined with a second quantity of a second build material to produce a third quantity of mixed build material having a predetermined proportion of marked build material. 1. Apparatus for determining characteristics of a material , comprising:a first container to receive a quantity of the material;a first sensor to measure characteristics of the material; and determine, using the first sensor, the proportion of non-marked material and marked material; and', 'determine, based on the determined proportion, a first quantity of the material to be combined with a second quantity of a different material to a produce a third quantity of material having a predetermined proportion of marked material., 'a controller to2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a second container to receive a quantity of a second material claim 1 , wherein the first and second containers further comprise respective first and second regulation devices to allow material from their respective containers to be transferred into a destination container claim 1 , and wherein the controller is to control the first and second regulation devices to produce the third quantity of material in the destination container.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a second sensor associated with the second container claim 1 , and wherein the controller is to determine the proportion of non-marked material and marked material in the second material.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first container claim 1 , the second container claim 1 , and the third container comprise a mixing element to ...

Translating contents of a print chamber to a secondary chamber

A platform is moved to translate contents of a print chamber to a secondary chamber. Negative pressure is applied to the secondary chamber and print chamber during motion of the platform, to reduce friction between the contents of the print chamber and sidewalls of the print chamber.

SMALL-SCALE MIXER

Systems and method for producing a small-scale mixer are provided. In some implementations, a method for includes obtaining dimensions of an at-scale mixer. The method also includes determining first dimensions of the small-scale mixer based on respective dimensions of the at-scale mixer. The method further includes determining second dimensions of the small-scale mixer independent of the dimensions of the at-scale mixer. Additionally, the method includes generating the small-scale mixer using the first dimensions and the second dimensions using a three-dimensional printer. 1. A system for producing a small-scale mixer , the system comprising:a three-dimensional printer configured to produce the small-scale mixer having a first plurality of dimensions based on a respective plurality of dimensions of an at-scale mixer and based on a second plurality of dimensions independent of the plurality of dimensions of the at-scale mixer; anda smoothing apparatus configured to smooth a surface of the small-scale mixer.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein a scaling factor relates the first plurality of dimensions of the small-scale mixer to the plurality of dimensions of the at-scale mixer.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first plurality of dimensions of the small-scale mixer and the plurality of dimensions of the at-scale mixer comprise impeller clearance off bottom of mixer (C) claim 1 , impeller diameter (D) claim 1 , liquid level (H) claim 1 , rotational speed (N) claim 1 , tank diameter (T) claim 1 , blade width (W) claim 1 , blade height (BH) claim 1 , and baffle width (WB).4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second plurality of dimensions correspond to physical forces imparted on an impeller of the small-scale mixer during mixing of a solution.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the three-dimensional printer is configured to produce the small-scale mixer using one of the following: PC (polycarbonate) claim 1 , ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) claim 1 , PLA ( ...

POWDER MODULE

Powder module () for an apparatus for additively manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, comprising a powder chamber () defining a powder room (), which is fillable with building material () in powder form and a cover () defining the powder room () at its top, whereby the powder module () comprises at least one equalization unit (), configured for spreading the building material () inside the powder room (). 1115242345311524743. Powder module ( , , ) for an apparatus for additively manufacturing of three-dimensional objects , comprising a powder chamber () defining a powder room () , which is fillable with building material () in powder form and a cover () defining the powder room () at its top , characterized in that the powder module ( , , ) comprises at least one equalization unit () , configured for spreading the building material () inside the powder room ().2781625175343. Powder module according to claim 1 , characterized in that the equalization unit () comprises at least one equalization element ( claim 1 , claim 1 , ) arranged on a side () of the cover () facing the powder room () claim 1 , whereby the building material () is spreadable in at least one section of the powder room ().381625481625. Powder module according to claim 2 , characterized in that the at least one equalization element ( claim 2 , claim 2 , ) is movable claim 2 , whereby the building material () is spreadable in the powder room by a driven movement of the at least one equalization element ( claim 2 , claim 2 , ).48162542. Powder module according to claim 2 , characterized in that the equalization element ( claim 2 , claim 2 , ) is drivable by at least one driving unit or by building material () flowing into the powder chamber ().56431942816258162581625. Powder module according to claim 4 , characterized by a filling unit () for filling building material () into the powder room () claim 4 , wherein the filling unit comprises at least one sealable opening () configured to guide ...

APPARATUS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

Apparatus () for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects () by successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material () which can be consolidated by means of an energy beam (), the apparatus () comprising: —a process chamber () comprising a build plane () in which layers of build material () are successively layerwise selectively irradiated and consolidated by means of an energy beam () during operation of the apparatus (); —a gas stream generating device () configured to generate a gas stream at least partly streaming through the process chamber () during operation of the apparatus (), the gas stream being capable of being charged with non-consolidated build material particles (); and —an optical determining device () configured to optically determine at least one parameter suitable for characterizing the streaming properties of the gas stream streaming through the process chamber (). 112341. Apparatus () for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects () by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material () which can be consolidated by means of an energy beam () , the apparatus () comprising:{'b': 8', '7', '3', '4', '1, 'a process chamber () comprising a build plane () in which layers of build material () are successively layerwise selectively irradiated and consolidated by means of an energy beam () during operation of the apparatus ();'}{'b': 9', '8', '1', '25', '1', '8, 'a gas stream generating device () configured to generate a gas stream at least partly streaming through the process chamber () during operation of the apparatus (), the gas stream being capable of being charged with non-consolidated build material particles (), particularly smoke or smoke residues generated during operation of the apparatus (), while streaming through the process chamber (); and'}{'b': 12', '8', '1', '8, 'an optical determining device () configured to optically determine ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INCREASING SURFACE SMOOTHNESS OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTED ARTICLE

Technologies are generally described to increase a surface smoothness of a 3D printed article implementing a water-based treatment using layer by layer (LBL) deposition. An initial 3D printed article having an anionic surface may be treated with a first aqueous solution comprising at least one polycation that may bind to the anionic surface to produce a first treated surface, which may be rinsed with water to remove the first aqueous solution. The first treated surface may be treated with a second aqueous solution comprising at least one anionic microparticle that may bind to the polycation to produce a final 3D printed article having. a second treated surface, which may be rinsed with water to remove the second aqueous solution. The bound polycation and anionic microparticle may be present as a single layer in the final 3D printed article that may act as a conformal coating to increase the surface smoothness. 1. A method to treat a surface of an initial three-dimensional (3D) printed article , the method comprising:providing the initial 3D printed article that has an anionic surface;treating the anionic surface with a first aqueous solution for a time period based on a first concentration of the first aqueous solution, wherein the first aqueous solution includes at least one polycation to produce a first treated surface; andtreating the first treated surface with a second aqueous solution for another time period based on a second concentration of the second aqueous solution, wherein the second aqueous solution includes at least one anionic microparticle to produce a final 3D printed article that has a second treated surface; the polycation binds to the anionic surface; and', 'the anionic microparticle binds to the polycation,, 'wherein28.-. (canceled)9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polycation is present in the final 3D printed article as a single layer that has a thickness such that a smoothness of the surface of the final 3D printed article is higher than a ...

SUPPORT STRUCTURES FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES

A support structure for an additive manufacturing system includes a support body with a support body material and an interface disposed on the support body with an interface material. The interface material has a ductile-to-brittle transition temperature that is higher than the ductile-to-brittle temperature of the support body material for selectively fracturing the interface material to separate an additively manufactured article from the support body. 1. A support structure , comprising:a support body including a support body material; andan interface disposed over the support body and including an interface material, wherein the interface material has a ductile-brittle transition temperature that is higher than a ductile-brittle transition temperature of the support body material for separating three-dimensional articles formed on the interface material.2. A support structure as recited in claim 1 , wherein the article includes a plurality of layers fused over top one another using a selective laser sintering process claim 1 , an electron beam melting process claim 1 , or an electron beam sintering process.3. A support structure as recited in claim 1 , wherein the interface material has a resistance that is lower than a resistance of the support body material.4. A support structure as recited in claim 3 , further include an article coupled to the interface layer with a resistance that is less than the resistance of the interface material.5. A support structure as recited in claim 1 , further including source and drain leads connected to the interface layer.6. A support structure as recited in claim 5 , wherein the source lead claim 5 , interface layer claim 5 , and drain lead form a resistive heating element.7. A support structure as recited in claim 1 , further including an article coupled to the support structure by the interface layer claim 1 , wherein the article has a ductile-to-brittle transition temperature lower than the ductile-to-brittle transition ...

CONSTRUCTION CHAMBER FOR AN APPARATUS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

The invention relates to a construction chamber () for an apparatus for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects, comprising a construction chamber base body () which limits a construction volume () forming a construction room (), wherein the construction chamber base body () is formed segmented in several construction chamber base body segments (, ) that can be attached or are attached to each other forming the construction chamber base body (). 112432222ab. A construction chamber () for an apparatus for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects , comprising a construction chamber base body () which limits a construction volume () forming a construction room () , characterized in that the construction chamber base body () is formed segmented into several construction chamber base body segments ( , ) that can be attached or are attached to each other forming the construction chamber base body ().2222ab. The construction chamber according to claim 1 , characterized in that the construction chamber base body () is formed segmented in at least one horizontal segmentation plane (E) claim 1 , wherein the respective construction chamber base body segments ( claim 1 , ) can be attached or are attached to each other vertically on top of each other.322ab. The construction chamber according to claim 1 , characterized in that the construction chamber base body segments ( claim 1 , ) have a hollow parallelepiped claim 1 , hollow cylindrical or an annular disk-shaped base shape.4223ab. The construction chamber according to claim 1 , characterized in that each construction chamber base body segment ( claim 1 , ) limits a construction room portion describing a full inner circumference of the construction room ().522ab. The construction chamber according to one of the preceding characterized in that the construction chamber base body segments ( claim 1 , ) are identically formed in geometric structural manner or are formed such that they differ in at least one ...

RESIN DISTRIBUTION AND MAINTENANCE SYSTEM

A method is provided for maintaining resin in a system including a main feed tank and at least one vat, each of the at least one vats associated with a 3-D printing machine. The method includes the steps of: transferring resin from the main feed tank to the at least one vat; operating the associated 3-D printing machine in a build cycle; returning the resin from the at least one vat to the main feed tank; and repeating in a cycle the steps of transferring the resin, operating the 3-D printing machine, and returning the resin. 1. A method for maintaining resin in a system including a main feed tank and at least one vat , each of the at least one vats associated with a 3-D printing machine , the method comprising the steps of:transferring resin from the main feed tank to the at least one vat;operating the associated 3-D printing machine in a build cycle;returning the resin from the at least one vat to the main feed tank; andrepeating in a cycle the steps of transferring the resin, operating the 3-D printing machine, and returning the resin.2. The method of further comprising maintaining the resin in the main feed tank such that the resin has predetermined qualities.3. The method of wherein maintaining the resin comprises mixing fresh resin into the main feed tank.4. The method of wherein maintaining the resin comprises mixing fresh resin constituents into the main feed tank.5. The method of wherein maintaining the resin comprises filtering the resin prior to returning it to the main feed tank.6. The method of wherein maintaining the resin comprises testing the resin to determine at least one qualitative characteristic thereof.7. The method of wherein the resin is maintained in a transfer tank and subsequently transferred to the main feed tank.8. The method of wherein the method is carried out for multiple vats fluidly connected to the same main feed tank.9. A system for maintaining the condition of resin used in sequential build cycles by a 3-D printing machine claim ...

3D PRINTER

Disclosed is 3D printer that may precisely irradiate a laser to a spot where the laser is to be irradiated so that a precise three-dimensional product may be output, and prevent a temperature deviation from occurring inside a case including a product forming chamber to improve the quality of the output product, and increase the durability of the output product by enhancing the binding force between powder and powder applied to an output bed and maximizing the melting of the powder. 1. A 3D printer having a heating device comprising:a powder supplying unit configured to accommodate a powder therein and supply the powder for forming a product; anda product forming unit configured to irradiate a laser to the powder supplied from the powder supplying unit and sinter the powder so that a 3D product is formed,wherein the powder supplying unit has a hopper form,wherein a first heater for generating heat is installed at the powder supplying unit to preheat a powder supplied to an output bed of the product forming unit and post-heat a powder stacked on the output bed of the product forming unit,wherein a second heater is installed at the output bed of the product forming unit to generate heat so that the heat and humidity of the stacked powder and the surface temperature of the output bed are kept constantly.2. The 3D printer having a heating device of claim 1 , wherein a screw is installed in the powder supplying unit to prevent the powder from being agglomerated.3. The 3D printer having a heating device of claim 1 , wherein the first heater includes a UV laser claim 1 , and the UV laser is provided at an outlet of the powder supplying unit through which the powder is discharged.4. The 3D printer having a heating device of claim 1 , wherein the second heater includes an IR lamp or a heating coil claim 1 , which is mounted inside the output bed.5. The 3D printer having a heating device of claim 1 , further comprising:a third heater installed at an inner top end of a case ...

BUILD MATERIAL CONTAINER

Examples of the present disclosure relate to a build material container for a three-dimensional printing system. The container has an external casing with an upper surface, a lower compartment to receive a build material reservoir, at least one load-bearing element, and an upper compartment below the upper surface. The upper compartment and the lower compartment are separated by a lower surface. The at least one load-bearing element is arranged below the lower surface. The upper compartment has stiffening members arranged to distribute load received from the upper surface to the at least one load-bearing element. 1. A build material container for a three-dimensional printing system , comprising:an external casing having an upper surface;a lower compartment to receive a build material reservoir;at least one load-bearing element; andan upper compartment below the upper surface, the upper compartment and the lower compartment being separated by a lower surface, the at least one load-bearing element being arranged below the lower surface, andwherein the upper compartment comprises stiffening members arranged to distribute load received from the upper surface to the at least one load-bearing element, the stiffening members being arranged around an aperture in the lower surface for a channel structure of the build material reservoir, the at least one load-bearing element being arranged to distribute a received load to a base of the build material container.2. The build material container of claim 1 , comprising:a plurality of load-bearing elements arranged around the lower compartment.3. The build material container of claim 2 , comprising:a plurality of build material reservoirs for holding build material,wherein the plurality of load-bearing elements are arranged around the build material reservoirs, andwherein the plurality of load-bearing elements comprise at least one load-bearing element located between the build material reservoirs.4. The build material container ...

BUILD MATERIAL CONTAINER

Certain examples of a build material container for a three-dimensional printing system is described. The build material container has an external casing and an internal compartment within the external casing. The internal compartment may have a reservoir to store build material, where the reservoir has a channel structure, and a surround that encloses the reservoir. A partition is provided within which the channel structure is mounted, the partition forming an upper surface of the internal compartment and being independent from the external casing and the surround. The partition restricts access to the internal compartment and collects build material during use of the channel structure. 1. A build material container for a three-dimensional printing system , comprising:an external casing; a reservoir to store build material, the reservoir having a channel structure;', 'a surround that encloses the reservoir; and, 'an internal compartment within the external casing, comprisinga partition within which the channel structure is mounted, the partition forming an upper surface of the internal compartment and being independent from the external casing and the surround,wherein the partition restricts access to the internal compartment, andwherein the partition is arranged to collect build material during use of the channel structure.2. The build material container of claim 1 , comprising:a plurality of reservoirs having a plurality of respective channel structures,wherein the partition supports the plurality of channel structures within a set of respective apertures.3. The build material container of claim 1 , wherein the partition comprises:a planar portion,a plurality of side portions that project upwards,wherein the side portions abut side walls of the external casing.4. The build material container of claim 3 , wherein the planar portion comprises a lower surface of an upper compartment of the external casing and the side portions are accommodated between the side walls ...

TRANSPORTING STRAY BUILD MATERIAL

In some examples, a build material delivery system for a printing system includes a moveable belt to transport a build material between locations in the printing system, where an outer surface of the belt is to carry the build material. A drive system is to move the belt, and the drive system includes a roller to engage an inner surface of the belt, the inner surface of the belt comprising transport structures defining cavities to transport stray build material that has seeped into an inner region containing the drive system from the outer surface of the belt. 1. A build material delivery system for a printing system , comprising:a moveable belt to transport a build material between locations in the printing system, wherein an outer surface of the belt is to carry the build material;a drive system to move the belt, the drive system comprising a roller to engage an inner surface of the belt, the inner surface of the belt comprising transport structures defining cavities to transport stray build material that has seeped into an inner region containing the drive system from the outer surface of the belt.2. The build material delivery system of claim 1 , further comprising a first transport chute to receive a portion of the stray build material falling from the cavities of the belt.3. The build material delivery system of claim 2 , wherein the first transport chute extends inside the inner region and is to carry the portion of the stray build material to a second transport chute to carry the portion of the stray build material to a build material reservoir of the printing system.4. The build material delivery system of claim 2 , further comprising a diverting transport chute to divert another portion of the stray build material not received by the first transport chute along a path towards a target portion of the belt.5. The build material delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the roller includes plural ring-shaped rolling structures claim 1 , wherein a gap is defined ...

VISCOUS FILM THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

The present disclosure provides a system for printing a three-dimensional object. The system may comprise an open platform configured to hold a film of a viscous liquid comprising a photoactive resin. The open platform may comprise a print window. The system may comprise a deposition head comprising a nozzle in fluid communication with a source of the viscous liquid. The deposition head may be configured to move across the platform and deposit the film over the print window. The system may use multiple viscous liquids. The system may comprise an optical source that provides light through the print window for curing at least a portion of the film of the viscous liquid. The system may comprise a controller operatively coupled to direct movement of the deposition head and projection of the light, thereby printing at least a portion of the 3D object. 120.-. (canceled)21. A system for printing a three-dimensional (3D) object , comprising:a print head comprising a nozzle and a flattener adjacent to a surface that is transparent or semi-transparent, wherein said print head is configured to move across said surface, and wherein said nozzle is in fluid communication with a source of a viscous liquid comprising a photoactive resin;an optical source configured to provide light that is directed through said surface; and (a) while said print head is moving across said surface, direct dispensing of said viscous liquid through said nozzle to deposit a film of said viscous liquid over said surface, wherein said flattener comes in contact with said film of said viscous liquid subsequent to said deposition; and', '(b) direct said optical source to provide said light that is directed through said surface to said film to cure said photoactive resin in at least a portion of said film., 'a controller operatively coupled to said print head and said optical source, wherein said controller is configured to22. The system of claim 21 , wherein said flattener is movable along a direction ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REMOVING UNUSED POWDER FROM A PRINTED WORKPIECE

Disclosed is an apparatus for depowdering a workpiece printed from a laser powder bed fusion process, having: a base; a turntable that rotates relative to the base, the turntable configured to receive the workpiece; and in operation, when the turntable is rotating, rotational forces applied to the workpiece depowder the workpiece. 1. An apparatus for depowdering a workpiece printed from a laser powder bed fusion process , comprising:a base;a turntable that rotates relative to the base, the turntable configured to receive the workpiece; andin operation, when the turntable is rotating, rotational forces applied to the workpiece depowder the workpiece.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising at platform disposed on the turntable and configured to receive the workpiece; and in operation claim 1 , the platform rotates to reorient the rotational forces applied to the workpiece.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising a plurality of turntables configured for being stacked one on top of the other claim 1 , configured to receive a respective one of a plurality of workpieces claim 1 , and in operation claim 1 , when the plurality of turntables is rotating claim 1 , rotational forces applied to the plurality of workpieces depowder the plurality of workpieces.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , comprising at least one platform disposed on one or more of the turntables and configured to receive the workpieces claim 3 , and in operation claim 3 , the at least one platform rotates to reorient the rotational forces applied to the workpieces.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising an impulse generator configured to generate an impulse against the turntable claim 1 , wherein when the turntable rotates claim 1 , the impulse generator generates the impulse and unused powder is thereby broken from the workpiece.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the impulse generator is configured to generate the impulse against a bottom of the turntable.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the impulse ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR POWDER DISTRIBUTION AND ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHOD USING THE SAME

The present disclosure provides a device and method for powder distribution and an additive manufacturing method, wherein different size or kind of powders could be chosen to be accommodated within a receptacle. The receptacle can uniformly mix the powder by a rotation movement, pour out the powders by the rotation movement and distribute the powders for forming a layer by a translation movement. In another embodiment, the receptacle further comprises a heating element for preheating the powders. Not only can the present disclosure uniformly mix the powders so as to reduce the thermal deformation and distribute the powder layer compactly, but also can the present disclosure distribute different kinds of powder in different layer so as to increase the diversity in additive manufacturing. 1. A powder distribution device , comprising:a feeder, or providing at least one powder;a translation driver, for providing a translational driving force;a rotation driver, for providing a rotational driving force while being coupled to the translation driver; anda receptacle, coupled to the rotation driver for enabling the receptacle to receive the rotational driving force from the rotation driver so as to be driven to perform a rotation movement while being brought along to move with the rotation driver in a linear translation movement by the translational driving force, and the receptacle being provided for receiving at least one powder therein for allowing the at least one powder to be poured out of the receptacle by the rotation of the receptacle.2. The powder distribution device of claim 1 , wherein the feeder is further configured with at least one container claim 1 , and each container is further formed with at least one feeding port.3. The powder distribution device of claim 1 , wherein the feeder is further configured with at least one container and rotary table in a manner that each said container is disposed on the rotary table for selectively enabling one container ...

MATERIAL FILLING APPARATUS FOR 3D PRINTING

A material filling apparatus for 3D printing fills materials into a material tank by a feeding part and includes a fixed sleeve with a first open end and a fixed end connected to the feeding part, a moving sleeve movably inserted and tightly fitted and interfered with the fixed sleeve, and a material output pipe inserted into the moving sleeve. The material tank is movably sheathed on the material output pipe. The moving sleeve has a second open end and a blocking end. The material output pipe has a connecting end and a material output end. The blocking end blocks the rear end of the material tank. The material tank squeezed by the filled material moves the connecting end towards the material output end and the rear end away from the material output end to push the blocking end and move the moving sleeve together with the material tank. 1. A material filling apparatus for 3D printing , capable of filling a material into a material tank through a feeding part of a feeding machine , and the material tank having a front end and a rear end , and the material filling apparatus comprising: a fixed sleeve , having a fixed end connected to the feeding part and a first open end opposite to the fixed end; a moving sleeve , movably inserted and tightly fitted into and interfered with the fixed sleeve , and having a second open end corresponsive to the fixed end and a blocking end corresponsive to the first open end; and a material output pipe , inserted into the moving sleeve , and having a connecting end connected to the feeding part and a material output end opposite to the connecting end , and the material tank being movable sheathed on the exterior of the material output pipe , and the rear end and of the material tank and the material output end being movably situated opposite to one another , and the blocking end of the moving sleeve blocking the rear end of the material tank; wherein , the material tank is squeezed by the filling material of the feeding machine to move ...

POWDER BED FUSION APPARATUS AND METHODS

A powder bed fusion apparatus and method includes a build platform for supporting a powder bed onto which layers of a powder can be deposited, a scanner for scanning an energy beam over each layer to fuse selected regions of the powder bed and a gas flow circuit for passing a flow of gas over the powder bed. The gas flow circuit includes a filter assembly including a filter housing through which the gas flows, the filter housing containing a granulate, preferably powder, filter medium for filtering particles from the gas flow. The powder filter medium may correspond to powder used to form the powder bed such as being of the same material as the powder used to form the powder bed. 1. A powder bed fusion apparatus comprising; a build platform for supporting a powder bed onto which layers of a powder can be deposited , a scanner for scanning an energy beam over each layer to fuse selected regions of the powder bed and a gas flow circuit for passing a flow of gas over the powder bed , the gas flow circuit comprising a filter assembly comprising a filter housing through which the gas flows , the filter housing containing a powder filter medium for filtering particles from the gas flow.2. A powder bed fusion apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the filter assembly in an unused state comprises the powder filter medium and/or wherein the powder filter medium corresponds to powder used to form the powder bed.3. A powder bed fusion apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the filter housing and/or a filter element retained in the filter housing is arranged to retain a bulk of the powder filter medium as a depth filter for capturing particles entrained in the gas flow throughout the bulk.4. A powder bed fusion apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the filter assembly comprises a retaining wall for retaining the powder filter medium within the filter housing claim 1 , the retaining wall having sufficient porosity to allow the gas to flow therethrough.5. A powder bed ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORKPIECE

We describe a process chamber, an apparatus, a modular system, a method, a safety device, a positioning system and a system for producing a three-dimensional workpiece and/or for use thereof when producing a three-dimensional workpiece. The process chamber for producing the three-dimensional workpiece via an additive layer construction method comprises: a material supply unit comprising a substantially ring-like shaped end portion at a first side of the process chamber, wherein the material supply unit is adapted to supply, via the end portion, material to a carrier on which the material is to be processed by the process chamber for producing the three-dimensional workpiece, and an opening at the first side of the process chamber for processing, by the process chamber, the material supplied on the carrier in order to produce the three-dimensional workpiece, wherein the substantially ring-like shaped end portion surrounds the opening. 1. An apparatus for producing a three-dimensional workpiece via an additive layer construction method , the apparatus comprising:a carrier adapted to receive material for producing the three-dimensional workpiece;a material supply unit adapted to supply material to the carrier and/or preceding material layers on top of the carrier,a layer depositing mechanism for forming the supplied material into a material layer on top of the carrier and/or the preceding material layers on top of the carrier,a solidification device adapted to solidify the material supplied to the carrier and/or the preceding material layers on top of the carrier for producing the three-dimensional workpiece,a gas supply unit adapted to supply a shielding gas to an area of the material layer that is to be solidified by the solidification device,a process chamber comprising the gas supply unit and the solidification device,a moving unit adapted to move the process chamber relative to the carrier, anda positioning system adapted to determine a position of the process ...

APPARATUSES FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

The present disclosure describes an apparatus for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object. The apparatus includes a radiation source, a carrier on which the three-dimensional object is made, an applicator assembly configured to apply a polymerizable liquid, and a frame, with the applicator assembly and the radiation source connected to the frame. A first drive assembly interconnects the applicator assembly and the frame and a second drive assembly interconnects the carrier and the frame. The frame defines a build region between the applicator assembly and the carrier. The applicator assembly includes a polymerizable liquid supply chamber, an application roller, and a metering roller. The applicator assembly may optionally include a post-metering roller. An apparatus comprising a first and a second applicator assembly and a smaller scale version of the apparatus are also described. 1. An apparatus for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object , comprising:a radiation source;a carrier on which the three-dimensional object is made; a polymerizable liquid supply chamber;', 'an application roller;', 'a metering roller; and', 'a post-metering roller;, 'an applicator assembly configured to apply a polymerizable liquid, said applicator assembly comprisinga frame, with said applicator assembly and said radiation source connected to said frame, and with said frame defining a build region between said applicator assembly and said carrier;a first drive assembly interconnecting said applicator assembly and said frame; anda second drive assembly interconnecting said carrier and said frame,wherein the polymerizable liquid is a highly viscous resin.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said applicator assembly further comprises a metering element between the application roller and the metering roller.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein said metering element is a cleaning blade.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said application roller and said metering ...

Apparatus, system and method for in-line additive manufacturing nozzle inspection

An additive manufacturing apparatus, system, and method. More particularly, the disclosed in-line nozzle inspection apparatus, system and method are suitable to monitor an additive manufacturing print nozzle, and may include: at least one sensor integrated with a motion driver for the print nozzle; a plurality of imaging lenses suitable to provide a substantially complete field of view at least about a tip of the print nozzle; and a comparative engine suitable to compare the field of view state to an acceptable state of the print nozzle, and to execute a cleaning of the print nozzle if the field of view state is unacceptable.

Cooling unit with a self-locking latch mechanism

A cooling unit can be coupled to a build unit of a 3D printing system. The cooling unit comprises a cooling unit opening which is arranged to face a build unit opening when the cooling unit is coupled to the build unit to enable transfer of content from the build unit to the cooling unit. The cooling unit further comprises a self-locking latch mechanism to couple the cooling unit to the build unit such that the cooling unit opening faces the build unit opening.

PRINTHEAD CLEANING SYSTEM

According to an example, an apparatus may include a printhead to deliver a printing liquid from firing chambers through a plurality of bores arranged along a surface of the printhead. The apparatus may also include a cleaning system to apply a pressurized cleaning fluid onto the surface of the printhead while preventing application of the pressurized cleaning fluid into the firing chambers through the plurality of bores. 1. An apparatus comprising:a printhead to deliver a printing liquid from firing chambers through a plurality of bores arranged along a surface of the printhead; anda cleaning system to apply a pressurized cleaning fluid onto the surface of the printhead while preventing application of the pressurized cleaning fluid into the firing chambers through the plurality of bores.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the printhead is movable between a printing position and a cleaning position claim 1 , wherein in the printing position claim 1 , the printhead delivers the printing liquid and in the cleaning position claim 1 , the cleaning system applies the pressurized cleaning fluid to the printhead.3. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the cleaning system includes a pressurizing device and a plurality of nozzles claim 2 , the pressurizing device being to pressurize the cleaning fluid to be sprayed out of the plurality of nozzles.4. The apparatus according to claim 3 , said plurality of nozzles being aligned with sections of the surface outside of the plurality of bores when the printhead is in the cleaning position claim 3 , wherein the plurality of nozzles are angled to direct the pressurized cleaning fluid in directions away from respective sets of the plurality of bores.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cleaning system includes a plurality of pivotable nozzles claim 1 , wherein the plurality of pivotable nozzles are to be rotated to apply the pressurized cleaning fluid onto multiple sections of the surface outside of ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR UNPACKING AN OBJECT MANUFACTURED BY LAYERED APPLICATION

Described are devices and methods for unpacking a three-dimensional object, manufactured in a swap container by layer-by-layer application and selective solidification of a powdery structural material, from the structural material that surrounds the object and has remained unsolidified, comprising a turning device that rotates the swap container from an upright position into an unloading position for discharging the unsolidified structural material, wherein the turning device comprises a drive unit by which the three-dimensional object is displaceable into a removal position relative to the swap container), following the unpacking of the unsolidified structural material. 1. A device for unpacking a three-dimensional object that has been manufactured by layer-by-layer application and selective solidification of a powdery structural material from structural material that surrounds the object that has remained unsolidified , comprising:a turning device configured to rotate a swap container containing the three-dimensional object about a horizontal axis of rotation from an upright position to an unloading position, wherein the swap container is insertable and fixable to the turning device, wherein the turning device comprises a retaining plate on which the swap container can be placed;a drive unit by which the three-dimensional object can be placed in a removal position relative to the swap container, wherein the drive unit is rotatable, together with the turning device, about the axis of rotation; anda clamp by which the swap container is detachably fixed to the retaining plate.2. The device of claim 1 , comprising a substrate plate carrying the three-dimensional object that is movable to the removal position with respect to the swap container by the driver.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the clamp comprises a first clamping element on the swap container claim 1 , and a second clamping element on the driver claim 1 , wherein the clamping elements are configured to ...

LOADING FEEDSTOCK INTO AN ADDITIVE FRICTION STIR DEPOSITION MACHINE

A method for loading feedstock bars into an additive friction stir deposition machine (AFSD) is described. The method comprises containing a plurality of feedstock bars in a container disposed adjacent to a spindle of the additive friction stir deposition machine. The method further comprises moving one feedstock bar of the plurality of feedstock bars into axial alignment with the spindle of the additive friction stir deposition machine. 1. A method for loading feedstock bars into an additive friction stir deposition machine , the method comprising:containing a plurality of feedstock bars in a container disposed adjacent to a spindle of the additive friction stir deposition machine; andmoving one feedstock bar of the plurality of feedstock bars into axial alignment with the spindle of the additive friction stir deposition machine.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising inserting the one feedstock bar into the spindle of the additive friction stir deposition machine.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein moving the one feedstock bar into axial alignment with the spindle comprises contacting the one feedstock bar with at least one staging actuator.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein moving the one feedstock bar into axial alignment with the spindle comprises actuating at least one spring to move the one feedstock bar.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein moving the one feedstock bar into axial alignment with the spindle comprises contacting the one feedstock bar with at least one rotating lever.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of feedstock bars in the container are connected to one another via a chain.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein moving the one feedstock bar into axial alignment with the spindle comprises driving the plurality of feedstock bars via a motor coupled to the chain.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the container comprises a helicoid spring claim 1 , the method further comprising biasing the plurality of feedstock bars in the container ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORKPIECES

The invention relates to a device for producing three-dimensional workpieces, The device comprises a carrier for receiving raw material powder and a radiation unit for selectively radiating the raw material powder applied to the carrier with electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation in order to produce on the carrier a workpiece made of the raw material powder by a generative layering construction process. The device also comprises a vertical movement means, which is designed to move the radiation unit vertically relative to the carrier, and a cylinder construction wall, which extends substantially vertically and which constitutes a lateral delimitation for the raw material powder applied to the carrier, wherein the cylinder construction wall is designed to increase its vertical height during the construction process. 117-. (canceled)18. A device for producing three-dimensional workpieces , comprising:a carrier for receiving raw material powder;an irradiation unit for selectively irradiating the raw material powder applied to the carrier with electromagnetic radiation or particle radiation, in order to produce on the carrier a workpiece manufactured from the raw material powder by an additive layer building method;a vertical movement device which is adapted to move the irradiation unit vertically with respect to the carrier; anda substantially vertically extending build cylinder wall which constitutes a lateral delimitation for the raw material powder applied to the carrier, wherein the build cylinder wall is adapted to increase its vertical height during a build process.19. The device as claimed in claim 18 , further comprising a plurality of wall elements which are adapted to be detachably connected together so that claim 18 , in a connected state claim 18 , they form the substantially vertically extending build cylinder wall.20. The device as claimed in claim 19 , wherein the wall elements can be connected together in such a manner that claim 19 , in the ...

Method And Apparatus For Support Removal Using Directed Atomized And Semi-Atomized Fluid

An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, and one or more nozzles within the chamber. The nozzles may be the same size or different sizes. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part. The support surface may have one or more openings sized and configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semi-atomized spray of the fluid. 1. An apparatus for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part , comprising:a chamber;a support surface within the chamber, and configured to support an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”); andone or more nozzles within the chamber, and configured for spraying a fluid at said AM part, wherein said nozzles generate an atomized or semi-atomized spray of said fluid.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a tank configured to hold a volume of said fluid claim 1 , and positioned to capture the fluid after the fluid is sprayed.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising a heater at least partially within said tank for heating said fluid to a desired temperature.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said support surface further comprises openings sized and configured to allow said fluid to pass through said one or more openings.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the nozzles are arranged as two spray-headers of nozzles.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising:a first spray-header of nozzles configured to spray said fluid substantially downward toward the AM part; anda second spray-header of nozzles configured to spray said fluid substantially upward toward the AM part.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein one or both of said first and second spray-headers of nozzles ...

HIGHLY LOADED INORGANIC FILLED ORGANIC RESIN SYSTEMS

The disclosure provides high viscosity, organic resin systems incorporating inorganic materials. The resin systems incorporate glasses, glass ceramics, or ceramics in high load levels and are particularly useful for development of three dimensional articles and in additive manufacturing processes. Processes for making the resin systems are also provided. 1. A resin system comprising: i. 1-30 wt % of a binder comprising an organic photopolymerizable monomer, oligomer, or polymer, wherein the organic photopolymerizable monomer, oligomer, or polymer is a liquid at a temperature from −25° C. to 90° C.;', 'ii. >0-10 wt % of a photoinitiator; and, 'a. a resin including 'i. glass or glass ceramic particles wherein the particles have an average size along their longest dimension of from 5 nm to 20 μm;', 'b. 50-90 wt % of a filler includingc. wherein the resin system meets one or more of the following:the viscosity of the resin system is from 2000 cP to 75,000 cP;the yield stress of the resin system is from 1 to 10 Pa;the resin system shows less than a 20% change in viscosity or yield stress over a period of 30 days in a hermetically sealed container at 1 atm and 25° C.; orthe resin system scores a value of from 4 to 10 on the ASTM D869 settling test over a period of 48 hours.2. The resin system of claim 1 , comprising 2-20 wt % binder.3. The resin system of claim 2 , comprising 5-20 wt % binder.4. The resin system of claim 1 , comprising 1-20 wt % emulsion component.5. The resin system of claim 4 , comprising 1.5-15 wt % emulsion component.6. The resin system of claim 1 , comprising 0.1-8 wt % photoinitiator.7. The resin system of claim 6 , comprising 0.5-5 wt % photoinitiator.8. The resin system of claim 1 , comprising 50-80 wt % filler.9. The resin system of claim 1 , wherein the organic-soluble claim 1 , photopolymerizable monomer claim 1 , oligomer or polymer comprises an epoxy claim 1 , an acrylate claim 1 , a diacrylate claim 1 , a highly ethoxylated diacrylate claim ...

3D Printer Having a Coater and Coater Cleaning Device and Method for Cleaning a Coater of a 3D Printer

Disclosed is a 3D printer having a coating device and a coating device cleaning device wherein the coating device comprises a container which defines an inner cavity for receiving particulate construction material and an elongated output region for outputting the particulate construction material and can be moved into a cleaning position in which it is arranged above the coating device cleaning device wherein the coating device cleaning device comprises a wiping member and a driving device for moving the wiping member, and wherein the driving device is configured to move the wiping member for cleaning the output region along the same when the coating device is located above the coating device cleaning device 1103050. 3D printer () having a coating device () and a coating device cleaning device () ,{'b': 30', '32', '34', '36', '50, 'wherein the coating device () comprises a container () which defines an inner cavity () for receiving particulate construction material, and an elongate output region () for outputting the particulate construction material and is movable into a cleaning position in which it is arranged above the coating device cleaning device (),'}{'b': 50', '54, 'the coating device cleaning device () comprising a wiping member () and a driving device for moving the wiping member,'}characterized in that{'b': 54', '36', '30', '50, 'the driving device is configured to move the wiping member () along the output region () for cleaning the same when the coating device () is located above the coating device cleaning device ().'}2105430. 3D printer () according to claim 1 , wherein the driving device is configured to move the wiping member () into a lowered position claim 1 , in order to avoid a collision with the coating device ().310543630. 3D printer () according to or claim 1 , wherein the driving device is configured to move the wiping member () along a circulating path (U) extending with a first path section along the output region () when the coating ...

3D PRINTING APPARATUS

A three-dimensional (3D) printing apparatus is provided. The 3D printing apparatus includes a modeling material circulating part for circulating a modeling material for modeling a 3D model, a light source unit disposed on one side of the modeling material circulating part to supply light toward the modeling material so that the modeling material is cured, a stage on which the modeling material cured through the light source unit is seated, the stage being disposed to face the modeling material circulating part, a stage driving part connected to the stage to provide a driving force for moving the stage, a modeling material supply part for supplying the modeling material to the modeling material circulating part, a modeling material collecting part for collecting the modeling material, which passes through the light source unit, of the modeling material circulating by the modeling material circulating part, and a modeling material recycling part connected to the modeling material collecting part to filter the collected modeling material to resupply the filtered modeling material to the modeling material circulating part. 1. A three-dimensional (3D) printing apparatus comprising:a modeling material circulating device to circulate a modeling material for modeling a 3D model;a light source device to supply light to the modeling material such that the modeling material is cured;a stage to receive the modeling material cured through the light source, wherein the stage is disposed to face the modeling material circulating device;a stage driving part to provide a driving force for moving the stage;a modeling material supply device to supply the modeling material to the modeling material circulating device;a modeling material collecting device to collect the modeling material circulating on the modeling material circulating device; anda modeling material recycling device coupled to the modeling material collecting device to filter the collected modeling material and to ...

FILAMENT LOADING DRIVE IN A 3D PRINTER

A 3D printer includes at least one consumable loading bay configured to supply filament from a consumable supply assembly to a print head and at least one drive assembly that is configured to advance filament to the print head from the consumable supply. Each drive assembly includes a follower wheel rotatable about a follower axis and a drive wheel spaced apart from the follower wheel. The drive wheel is rotatable about a drive axis and is located on an opposing side of a filament path from the follower wheel such that the follower axis and the drive axis are substantially parallel. The drive wheel further includes an outer surface extending between two ends and has at least one engaging portion that is configured to engage with the filament and at least one disengaging portion that is configured to disengage from the filament. 1. A 3D printer comprising:a loading bay for receiving at least one consumable supply configured to supply filament to a print head feed drive; a follower wheel rotatable about a follower axis; and', 'a drive wheel spaced apart from the follower wheel, rotatable about a drive axis and located on an opposing side of a filament path from the follower wheel such that the follower axis and the drive axis are substantially parallel, wherein the drive wheel includes an outer surface extending between two ends and having at least one engaging portion configured to engage with the filament and at least one disengaging portion configured to disengage from the filament., 'at least one drive assembly configured to advance filament from the loading bay to the print head feed drive from the consumable supply, wherein each drive assembly comprises2. The 3D printer of claim 1 , wherein the at least one engaging portion comprises an arcuate configuration with a plurality of teeth and the at least one disengaging portion comprises a planar portion.3. The 3D printer of claim 1 , further comprising a controller configured to stop the drive assembly in a ...

POST-BUILD QUICK POWDER REMOVAL SYSTEM FOR POWDER BED FUSION ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

A post-build powder removal system includes a work bed, a platform wall having at least one powder evacuation port, and an evacuation port sealing system operable for selectively closing and opening the powder evacuation port. The platform wall cooperates with the work bed to define a powder chamber. The evacuation port sealing system includes an external sleeve slidingly fitted onto the exterior surface of the platform wall such that the external sleeve is slideable in a first direction closing the at least one powder evacuation port and slideable in an opposite second direction opening the at least one powder evacuation port. 1. A post-build powder removal system for a powder bed fusion system , comprising: a work bed;', 'a platform wall cooperating with the work bed to define a powder chamber, wherein the platform wall includes an interior surface, an exterior surface opposite the interior surface, and at least one port surface extending from the interior surface to the exterior surface to define at least one powder evacuation port in fluid communication with the powder chamber; and', 'an evacuation port sealing system operable for selectively closing and opening the powder evacuation port., 'a build platform including2. The post-build powder removal system of claim 1 , wherein the evacuation port sealing system includes:an external sleeve slidingly fitted onto the platform wall such that one of the platform wall and external sleeve is slideable in a first direction closing the at least one powder evacuation port and slideable in an opposite second direction opening the at least one powder evacuation port.3. The post-build powder removal system of claim 2 , wherein the external sleeve includes:an interior surface, an exterior surface opposite the interior surface, and at least one aperture surface defining an aperture extending from the interior surface to the exterior surface of the external sleeve,wherein the interior surface of the external sleeve is in ...

CLEANING FIXTURES AND METHODS OF CLEANING COMPONENTS USING CLEANING FIXTURES

Cleaning fixtures for a component(s) are disclosed. The cleaning fixtures may include a first and second component recess configured to receive a first and second component, respectively. Each component recess may be defined between a first and second member of the cleaning fixture. The cleaning fixture may also include a first solvent conduit in fluid communication with the first component recess, and a second solvent conduit in fluid communication with the second component recess. The first and second solvent conduit may include physical characteristic(s) configured to control delivery of solvent into the respective component recess at desired fluid parameter(s). The cleaning fixture may also include a first gas conduit in fluid communication with the first component recess, and a second gas conduit in fluid communication with the second component recess. Each of the first and second gas conduit may deliver a pressurized gas to the respective component recess. 1. A cleaning fixture for at least one component , the cleaning fixture comprising:a first component recess configured to receive a first component therein and a second component recess configured to receive a second component therein, each component recess defined between a first member and a mating second member of the cleaning fixture;a first solvent conduit in fluid communication with the first component recess, and a second solvent conduit in fluid communication with the second component recess, the first solvent conduit and the second solvent conduit each including a physical characteristic configured to control delivery of a solvent into the respective component recess at a desired fluid parameter; anda first gas conduit in fluid communication with the first component recess, and a second gas conduit in fluid communication with the second component recess, each of the first gas conduit and the second gas conduit configured to deliver a respective pressurized gas to the respective component recess.2. ...

Apparatus for Additively Manufacturing Three-Dimensional Objects

Apparatus for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material which can be consolidated by means of an energy source, comprising a build material application unit that is adapted to receive, in particular powdery, build material and adapted to apply at least one build material layer in a build plane, wherein a determination device with at least one determination unit connected in advance to the build material application unit with respect to the build material flow direction, wherein the determination unit is adapted to determine at least one build material parameter of at least one part of the build material provided to the build material application unit. 1. An apparatus for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects by means of successive layerwise selective irradiation and consolidation of layers of a build material which can be consolidated by means of an energy source , the apparatus comprising:a build material application unit that is adapted to receive, in particular powdery, build material and adapted to apply at least one build material layer in a build plane,a determination device with at least one determination unit connected in advance to the build material application unit with respect to the build material flow direction, wherein the determination unit is adapted to determine at least one build material parameter of at least one part of the build material provided to the build material application unit.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:a closed loop build material transportation path along which at least one part of the build material used in an additive manufacturing process is fed back to the build material application unit, wherein the determination unit is adapted to determine the at least one build material parameter of the at least one part of the build material before the at least one part of the build ...

ELECTRON BEAM MELTING AND CUTTING COMPOSITE 3D PRINTING APPARATUS

The present application relates to the technical field of 3D printing apparatus, and discloses an electron beam melting and cutting composite 3D printing apparatus which comprises a box and an electron beam gun, in which the box has a cavity formed therein, the cavity is provided therein with a cutting structure, a first Y-direction guide rail and a Y-direction movable platform, the electron beam gun has an emitting head formed in the cavity, the Y-direction movable platform is provided thereon with a Z-direction movable platform, the Z-direction movable platform is provided thereon with a powder spreading structure, the cutting structure has a cutting head, a shielding case is arranged between the emitting head and the Z-direction movable platform, the emitting head of the electron beam gun is inserted in an upper opening of the shielding case, and a lower opening of the shielding case is aligned with the Z-direction movable platform. 1. An electron beam melting and cutting composite 3D printing apparatus , comprising a box and an electron beam gun; wherein the box has a cavity in a vacuum state formed therein; the cavity is provided therein with a cutting structure , a first Y-direction guide rail and a Y-direction movable platform movably connected to the first Y-direction guide rail and movable along the first Y-direction guide rail; the electron beam gun is arranged outside the box , and has an emitting head configured for emitting an electron beam; the emitting head is formed in the cavity; the Y-direction movable platform is provided thereon with a Z-direction movable platform movable up and down with respect to Y-direction movable platform; the Z-direction movable platform is provided thereon with a powder spreading structure configured for spreading metal powder onto the Z-direction movable platform; the cutting structure is arranged at a side of the emitting head of the electron beam gun , and has a cutting head configured for cutting a structural ...

ENERGY BEAM DEFLECTION SPEED VERIFICATION

A method for verifying a deflection speed of an energy beam spot, the method comprising the steps of: providing a predetermined pattern on a work table with the energy beam spot while deflecting the energy beam spot with a first deflection speed, detecting first positions of the energy beam spot on the work table created with the first deflection speed, providing the predetermined pattern on a work table with the energy beam spot while deflecting the energy beam spot with a second deflection speed, detecting second positions of the energy beam spot on the work table created with the second deflection speed, comparing the first and second positions, wherein the deflection speed is verified if each one of the first positions are deviating less than a predetermined distance from corresponding second positions. 1. A method for verifying a deflection speed of an energy beam spot , said method comprising the steps of:generating a predetermined pattern on a work table with said energy beam spot while deflecting said energy beam spot with a first deflection speed;detecting first positions of said energy beam spot on said work table created with said first deflection speed;generating said predetermined pattern on a work table with said energy beam spot while deflecting said energy beam spot with a second deflection speed;detecting second positions of said energy beam spot on said work table created with said second deflection speed; andcomparing said first and second positions, wherein said deflection speed is verified if each one of said first positions are deviating less than a predetermined distance from corresponding ones of said second positions.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said pattern is a continuous pattern.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said pattern is a discontinuous pattern.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein said discontinuous pattern is created by switching on and off said energy beam.5. The method according to claim 1 , ...

SELF-SENSING OF PRINTED POLYMER STRUCTURES

A structural health monitoring method is provided that utilizes self-sensing printed polymer structures. The method is based on resistivity properties of conductive materials, which can be integrated to a 3D printed polymer structure during additive manufacturing. An article to be monitored has at least one 3D printed polymer structure including a circuit comprising at least one conductive pathway extending through a non-conductive material. The resistance across the circuit is measured during or after loading of the article to determine a resistance value. The measured resistance value is compared to a known resistance value, and based on the comparison, a defect can be detected in the 3D printed polymer structure. Structural health monitoring systems and articles with integrated structural health monitoring are also provided. 1. A method for monitoring the structural health of an article , comprising:providing an article having at least one 3D printed polymer structure printed from a non-conductive polymer material and a conductive polymer material, the conductive polymer material forming a circuit comprising at least one conductive pathway through the non-conductive material;loading the article;during or after loading, measuring resistance across the circuit to determine a resistance value;comparing the measured resistance value to a known resistance value; and a location of a defect within the 3D printed polymer structure; or', 'a length of a defect within the 3D printed polymer structure., 'determining, based on the comparison, whether a defect is present in the 3D printed polymer structure and at least one of2. The method of claim 1 , comprising measuring resistance across the circuit prior to loading the article to determine the known resistance value.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising monitoring the resistance across the circuit continuously during loading.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining claim 1 , based on the comparison claim 1 , whether a ...

Residue removing device and 3d printer

The present invention provides a residue removing device for removing residues in a partition plate, and a related 3D printer for use on a working platform. The partition plate e.g. of a 3D printer has a plurality of openings arranged in an array, and residues may be filled in the openings. The residue removing device includes a base plate and a plurality of jutting pins disposed on an upper side of the base plate. The jutting pins are arranged in an array corresponding to the openings array such that the jutting pins are capable of being inserted into the openings, in order to easily remove the residues in the openings of the partition plate.

LOW-TEMPERATURE CASE HARDENING OF ADDITIVE MANUFACTURED ARTICLES AND MATERIALS AND TARGETED APPLICATION OF SURFACE MODIFICATION

A treated additive manufactured article is disclosed. The article comprises a shaped metal alloy having a treated surface layer and a core. At least one of the average hardness of the treated surface layer is greater than the average hardness of the core, and the average corrosion resistance of the treated surface layer is greater than the average corrosion resistance of the core. 1. An additive manufactured article comprising: a treated surface layer; and', the average hardness of the treated surface layer is greater than the average hardness of the core; and', 'the average corrosion resistance of the treated surface layer is greater than the average corrosion resistance of the core., 'a core, wherein at least one of], 'a shaped metal alloy having2. An additive manufactured article comprising a shaped metal alloy comprising:a first surface, 'a first average hardness and a first average corrosion resistance extending from the first surface to a depth of up to about 25 μm below the first surface; and', 'a treated surface layer extending from the first surface to a depth of up to about 25 μm below the first surface and having a second average hardness, wherein the first average hardness is at least 50% greater than the second average hardness; and', 'a second average corrosion resistance, wherein the first average corrosion resistance is at least 50% greater than the second average corrosion resistance., 'a core having at least one of3. The article according to claim 2 , wherein at least one of:the first average hardness is 70% or greater than the second average hardness; andwhen tested via at least one of Critical Crevice Temperature (CCT) and Cyclic Potentiodynamic Polarization (CPP), the first average corrosion resistance exhibits a lower failure rate than the second average corrosion resistance.4. The article of claim 1 , wherein at least one of:a corrosion resistance of pores in the surface layer is substantially increased by the surface treatment;the metal alloy ...

APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PLUG CLEARING IN AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PRINT HEAD

The disclosed apparatus, system and method may include: at least two hobs suitable to receive and extrude therebetween a print material filament for the additive manufacturing; a material guide suitable to receive the extruded print material filament; at least one heater element coupled to a transition point along the material guide distally from the at least two hobs, wherein the transition point comprises an at least partial liquefication of the print material within the material guide by the at least one heater element to allow for printing of the at least partially liquefied print material; and at least one secondary heater at least partially about an upper aspect of the transition point and suitable to at least heat the upper aspect upon a clog in the material guide to liquefy the clog. 1. A print head for additive manufacturing , comprising:at least two hobs suitable to receive and extrude therebetween a print material filament for the additive manufacturing;a material guide suitable to receive the extruded print material filament;at least one heater element coupled to a transition point along the material guide distally from the at least two hobs, wherein the transition point comprises an at least partial liquefication of the print material within the material guide by the at least one heater element to allow for printing of the at least partially liquefied print material; andat least one secondary heater at least partially about an upper aspect of the transition point and suitable to at least heat the upper aspect upon a clog in the material guide to liquefy the clog.2. The print head of claim 1 , wherein the secondary heater comprises a radial shape claim 1 , and wherein the material guide passes through a port approximately centered through the secondary heater.3. The print head of claim 1 , wherein the secondary heater comprises a stack of radial devices claim 1 , each having a port therethrough suitable to receive the material guide.4. The print head of ...

DEFECT MITIGATION FOR RECOATING SYSTEMS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Disclosed embodiments relate to recoater systems for use with additive manufacturing systems. A recoater assembly may be used to deposit a material layer onto a build surface of an additive manufacturing system. In some instances, the recoater assembly may include a powder entrainment system that trails behind a recoater blade of the recoater assembly relative to a direction of motion of the recoater blade across a build surface of the additive manufacturing system. The powder entrainment system may generate a flow of fluid across a portion of the build surface behind the recoater blade that at least temporarily entrains powder above a threshold height from the build surface to mitigate, or prevent, the formation of defects on the build surface with heights greater than the threshold height. 1. A recoater assembly for an additive manufacturing system , the recoater assembly comprising:a recoater blade; anda powder entrainment system configured to generate a flow of fluid across a portion of the build surface with a velocity profile that increases from the build surface towards the powder entrainment system.2. The recoater assembly of claim 1 , wherein the powder entrainment system is configured to trail behind the recoater blade relative to a direction of travel of the recoater blade across the build surface claim 1 , and wherein the powder entrainment system is configured to generate the flow of fluid behind the recoater blade relative to the direction of travel.3. The recoater assembly of claim 1 , wherein a velocity of at least a portion of the flow of fluid is between or equal to 0.1 meters per second (m/s) and 2.0 m/s at a height from the build surface that is between or equal to 0.5 millimeters (mm) and 10.0 mm.4. The recoater assembly of claim 1 , wherein the powder entrainment system includes a moveable surface that generates the flow of fluid with a boundary layer of the fluid adhered to the moveable surface.5. The recoater assembly of claim 4 , wherein a ...

APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIGITALLY MASKED PRINT AREA HEATING

The disclosure is of and includes at least an apparatus, system and method for an additive manufacturing system. The apparatus, system and method may include at least: a heated print nozzle suitable to deliver at least partially liquefied print material to a print build in a print area; at least two projected digital masks suitable for providing a pixelization masking of the print area; and at least one print area heater suitable to deliver heat to ones of the masked pixels in the print area responsive to at least one controller. 1. An additive manufacturing system , comprising:a heated print nozzle suitable to deliver at least partially liquefied print material to a print build in a print area;at least two projected digital masks suitable for providing a pixelization masking of the print area; andat least one print area heater suitable to deliver heat to ones of the masked pixels in the print area responsive to at least one controller.2. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the masked pixels comprise a heating gray scale.3. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the print build is responsive to a print plan of the controller claim 1 , and wherein the masked pixels are integrated with the print plan.4. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one print area heater comprises at least two print area heaters.5. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one print area heater comprises one of a collimated heater claim 1 , a laser claim 1 , and a lensed heater.6. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , further comprising an alignment of the projected digital masks to eliminate blind spots for masking.7. The additive manufacturing system of claim 6 , wherein the blind spots comprise shadowing from the heated nozzle.8. The additive manufacturing system of claim 6 , wherein the alignment comprises a field-of-view overlap.9. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Method and system for enhancing the lifetime of printing heads used in additive manufacturing

Methods and systems (100) of printing a 3D object (101) comprising: depositing material, layer by layer, via printing heads (72) comprising one or more nozzle arrays; and activating each of said printing heads (72) to dispense a building material (50) at least once within a specified period of time during printing.

Cleaning apparatus for a model

A cleaning apparatus is used for a carrier and a model is fixed on the carrier. The cleaning apparatus includes a case body, a sprinkling unit, a switching valve, and a rotating mechanism. The case body has an opening disposed at a top thereof, an outlet disposed at a bottom thereof, and a receiving space disposed between the opening and the outlet. The sprinkling unit is installed in the case body and has plural nozzles configured corresponding to the receiving space. The switching valve is installed at the outlet to open or close the outlet. The rotating mechanism is configured corresponding to the opening and connected to the carrier and is able to drive the carrier in which the model passes through the opening and is disposed in the receiving space. Thus, the safety, stability, and convenience of the model clean-up are improved.

VIBRATIONAL DENSIFICATION OF POWDER SUPPLY IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Disclosed are an apparatus and method for densifying or compacting powder material in the supply bin of an additive manufacture machine to improve the quality of the object being made. For example, a removable or portable apparatus can be applied to the surface of the supply bin once the bin has been filled. The apparatus can include a vibrational component that agitates the underlying powder to compact the material. The apparatus can then be removed during the remainder of the additive manufacturing process, which then follows in its normal course. A vacuum can also be used the remove of air or other gases that are emitted during the compaction process, for example, as voids are filled during densification. 1. A powder compactor for use with a powder supply bin of an additive manufacturing system , the compactor comprising:a base;at least one vibration element carried by the base that transmits a vibratory motion upon activation to agitate the powder;a plenum portion formed in the base for transmitting a suction through the base to a powder surface under the base;at least one pin connected to the vibration element and mounted on the base so as to extend into powder beneath the base when the powder compactor is placed on or inside the powder bin, the pin being moved by the vibration element to thereby vibrate within the powder to cause the powder to thereby become more compact; anda source of suction attachable to the plenum portion to remove gases in the compaction process.2. The compactor of claim 1 , further comprising a vacuum pump that facilitates removal of gas that is emitted from the powder during a compaction process of the powder.3. The compactor of claim 1 , further comprising a handle for manual movement of the compactor by a human operator.4. The compactor of claim 1 , wherein the plenum portion is formed between at least two plates claim 1 , preferably comprising at least one of a top plate and bottom plate.5. The compactor of claim 4 , wherein the ...

SCREENING DEVICE FOR THE GENERATIVE MANUFACTURING OF COMPONENTS

The invention concerns a sieve device for use in a device for generative manufacture of components by means of successive solidification of individual layers of powdered solidifiable construction material by exposure to radiation, in particular laser radiation , through sector by sector melting or fusing and binding of the construction material , comprising a coating device for application of the layers on a carrier , a dosing device for preparing the powdered construction material for the coating device , an overflow container for receipt of construction material not needed in the coating process that can be fed to the sieve device for sieving the powder material into the overflow container during the construction process, wherein a sieve of the sieve device is configured at least in sections to be inclined in a way that the construction material after appearance on the sieve to be sieved is first brought across the surface of the sieve with an initial velocity and then the transport velocity of the construction material slows or is reduced to a lower velocity over the surface of the sieve. 110123454637846941091210412124. A sieve device () for application in a device () for generative manufacture of components () by sequential solidification of individual layers () from powdered solidifiable construction material () by exposure to radiation , in particular laser radiation () by means of sector by sector melting or fusing and binding the construction material () comprising a coating device () for application of the layers () on a carrier () , a dosing device () for preparation of the powdered construction material () for the coating device () , an overflow container () for intake of construction material () not needed for the coating process that can be fed to the sieve device () for sieving the powder material diverted into the overflow container () during the construction process , characterized in that a sieve () of the sieve device () is at least in sections ...

SYSTEM FOR REMOVING SUPPORT STRUCTURE USING INTEGRATED FLUID PATHS

A system for producing three-dimensional objects forms fluid paths within the support structure to facilitate the removal of the support structure following manufacture of the object. The system includes a first ejector configured to eject a first material towards a platen to form an object, a second ejector configured to eject a second material towards the platen to form support for portions of the object, at least one portion of the support having a body with at least one fluid path that connects at least one opening in the body to at least one other opening in the body, and a fluid source that connects to the at least one fluid path of the support to enable fluid to flow through the at least one fluid path to remove at least an inner portion of the support from the object. 1. A three-dimensional object printing system comprising:a platen;an ejector head having a first ejector configured to eject a first material towards the platen and a second ejector configured to eject a second material towards the platen;a fluid source;an actuator operatively connected to the fluid source; anda controller operatively connected to the ejector head and the actuator, the controller being configured to (i) operate the first ejector to eject the first material towards the platen to form an object, (ii) operate the second ejector to eject the second material towards the platen to form support for portions of the object, at least one portion of the support having a body with at least one fluid path that enables fluid to flow through the body of the support portion and contact a portion of the support material that formed the support, (iii) operate the actuator to pump from the fluid source through the at least one fluid path to cause fluid to flow through the at least one fluid path and contact the support material and then exit from another end of the at least one fluid path to remove at least an inner portion of the support from the object, and (iv) operate the actuator to reverse ...

PURGING NON-FUSED BUILD MATERIAL

A build material management system for a 3D printing system is described in which a non-fused purged build material port is to output purged non-fused build material from a build material transportation system. An emptying of substantially all non-fused build material from at least a portion of the build material transportation system to the non-fused purged build material port in response to a received purge signal is controlled by processing circuitry of the build material management system. 1. A build material management system , for a 3D printing system , the build material management system comprising:a build material transportation system;a non-fused purged build material port to output purged non-fused build material from the build material transportation system; andprocessing circuitry to control an emptying of substantially all non-fused build material from at least a portion of the build material transportation system to the non-fused purged build material port in response to a received purge signal.2. A build material management system as claimed in claim 1 , comprising:a build material storage container connected to the build material transportation system, the build material storage container to store non-fused build material; andprocessing circuitry to control a routing of substantially all non-fused build material from the build material storage container to the non-fused purged build material port, via the build material transportation system.3. A build material management system as claimed in claim 1 , comprising:a collection area;a collection area port connected to the build material transportation system and to receive non-fused build material from the collection area; andprocessing circuitry to control a routing of substantially all non-fused build material from the collection area to the non-fused purged build material port via the collection area port and the build material transportation system.4. A build material management system as claimed ...

BUILD MATERIAL MANAGEMENT

A build material management system for an additive manufacturing system is described in which a recovered build material tank () and a mixing tank () are provided. The recovered build material tank () comprises an outlet and a first build material filter () for separating a gas flow from a build material flow. The mixing tank () comprises a second build material filter (). The mixing tank () is connected to the recovered build material tank () via a RBMT-to-mixer conduit (). A controller () is provided to couple the second build material filter () to a reduced pressure interface to transport build material from the outlet of the recovered build material tank into the mixing tank () via the second build material filter (). The controller () controls coupling of the first build material filter () to the reduced pressure interface to transport build material from a build material source into the recovered build material tank (). A corresponding method is provided. 1. A material management apparatus for an additive manufacturing system , the apparatus comprising:a recovered build material tank for containing recovered build material, the recovered build material tank comprising an outlet and a first build material filter;a mixing tank comprising a second build material filter, the mixing tank connected to the recovered build material tank via a recovered build material tank (RBMT)-to-mixer conduit; anda controller to control coupling of the second build material filter to a reduced pressure interface to transport build material from the outlet of the recovered build material tank into the mixing tank via the RBMT-to-mixer conduit and the second build material filter, the controller being arranged to control coupling of the first build material filter to the reduced pressure interface to transport build material from a build material source into the recovered build material tank;wherein the first build material filter and the second build material filter are each ...

CONTAINER FOR 3D PRINTED OBJECTS AND METHOD OF COOLING AND UNPACKING A MANUFACTURED OBJECT FROM A 3D PRINTER USING THAT CONTAINER

A container () for receiving a manufactured object () from a 3D printer is disclosed. A method for cooling and unpacking 3D printed objects using that container. () is also disclosed. The container has a wall forming the sides of the container, a top extending to the sides of the container, a connector () for connection to a vacuum source and a guillotine member (). The lower portion of the container has support members to slidably receive the guillotine member () to form a base of the container. The guillotine member is selectively configurable between an apertured configuration having a plurality of through holes () to allow passage of air and/or build material, and a closed configuration in which the through holes are closed so as to prevent build material from falling out of the container. 1. A container for receiving a manufactured object from a 3D printer , the container comprising:a wall forming the sides of the container;a top extending to the sides of the containera connector for connection to a vacuum source; anda guillotine member;wherein a lower portion of the container has support members to slidably receive the guillotine member to form a base of the container; andwherein the guillotine member is selectively adjustable between an apertured configuration having a plurality of through holes to allow passage of air and/or build material, and a closed configuration in which the through holes are closed so as to prevent build material from falling out of the container.2. A container according to claim 1 , further comprising a heater.3. A container according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the wall is provided with a heat transfer plate.4. A container according to claim 1 , wherein the wall is provided with a thermal blanket.5. A container according to claim 1 , wherein the container is further provided with clamp points to receive a clamp arm from the 3D printer claim 1 , the clamp arm being provided with a vibration mechanism for vibrating the ...

CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Quality control method and control system for a stock of a base material for the additive manufacture of components includes selecting a batch of a base material out of a plurality of indexed batches of the stock, wherein base material assigned to the same batch index is indicative to the quality of the respective base material, loading a quantity of base material of the selected batch into a manufacturing system, additively manufacturing the component from the base material, wherein the base material of the selected batch is exposed to manufacturing conditions in a build area and updating the batch index of the base material remaining from the additive manufacture in the build area according to the exposure. 112.-. (canceled)13. A quality control method of a stock of a base material for the additive manufacture of components , comprising:selecting a batch of a base material out of a plurality of indexed batches of the stock, wherein base material assigned to the same batch index is indicative to the quality of the respective base material,loading a quantity of base material of the selected batch into a manufacturing system,additively manufacturing the component from the base material, wherein the base material of the selected batch is exposed to manufacturing conditions in a build area, andupdating the batch index of the base material remaining from the additive manufacture in the build area according to the exposure,wherein a control system tracks the base material and its quality by means of the batch index of the base material, during a plurality of manufacturing jobs,wherein the quantity of powder to be loaded into the manufacturing system is entered manually into the control system and the quantity of the base material remaining from the additive manufacture is automatically calculated by the control system, andwherein the base material and its quality are tracked in that the stock of the base material is retained in different containers which are numbered and ...

Methods And Apparatus For Rapidly Manufacturing Three-Dimensional Objects From A Plurality Of Layers

System and method for manufacturing a three-dimensional laminated object from a plurality of laminae. Each lamina is generally planar and has a top surface and a bottom surface. A holder is configured to fix the first lamina relative to the second lamina. A roller is positioned above the table and configured to traverse along a longitudinal axis. The first lamina and the second lamina are positioned between the support and the roller. An actuator biases the roller towards the support to retain the first lamina and second lamina. The biasing forms a fusion zone between the first lamina and the second lamina proximate to the roller. An energy source is configured to emit energy to the fusion zone to fuse the first lamina and the second lamina proximate to the fusion zone. 1. A system for manufacturing a three-dimensional laminated object from a plurality of laminae including a first lamina and second lamina , the system comprising:a support for the first lamina and the second lamina, each said lamina being generally planar and having a top surface and a bottom surface;a holder configured to fix at least a portion of the first lamina relative to the second lamina so at least a portion of the top surface of the first lamina contacts a least a portion of the bottom surface of the second lamina;a roller positioned above the table and configured to traverse along a longitudinal axis, the first lamina and the second lamina being positioned between the support and the roller;an actuator for biasing the roller towards the support to retain the first lamina and second lamina, the biasing forming a fusion zone between the first lamina and the second lamina proximate to the roller;an energy source configured to emit energy to the fusion zone to fuse the first lamina and the second lamina proximate to the fusion zone.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first lamina and the second lamina are metal.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the energy source is a laser and the system ...

TECHNIQUES FOR SURFACE PREPARATION DURING ADDITIVE FABRICATION AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

According to some aspects, an additive fabrication device is provided configured to form layers of material on a build platform, each layer of material being formed so as to contact a container in addition to the build platform and/or a previously formed layer of material. The additive fabrication device may comprise a container and a wiper, wherein the wiper comprises a wiper arm and a wiper blade coupled to said wiper arm using a pivoting coupling. 1. An additive fabrication device configured to form layers of material on a build platform , each layer of material being formed so as to contact a container in addition to the build platform and/or a previously formed layer of material , the additive fabrication device comprising:a container; and a wiper arm; and', 'a wiper blade coupled to said wiper arm using a pivoting coupling., 'a wiper, the wiper comprising2. The additive fabrication device of claim 1 ,wherein the wiper arm has a long axis aligned in a first direction, andwherein the wiper is configured to move across a base surface of the container in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.3. The additive fabrication device of claim 1 , wherein the wiper blade comprises:first and second surfaces opposing one another and oriented substantially perpendicular to a base surface of the container; anda void space between the first and second surfaces configured to hold liquid from the container when the wiper moves across the base surface of the container.4. The additive fabrication device of claim 3 , wherein the first surface of the wiper blade is configured to contact the base surface of the container claim 3 , and the second surface of the wiper blade is configured to maintain a substantially fixed distance above the base surface of the container when the wiper moves across the base surface.5. The additive fabrication device of claim 4 , wherein the wiper blade further comprises at least one stabilizing feature configured to contact the base ...

Device Capable of Automatically Replacing Screen Mechanism for Light Curing 3D Printer

The present disclosure discloses a device capable of automatically replacing screen mechanism for light curing 3D printer, which comprises a resin tank and a worktable mounted on the resin tank and further comprises a screen mechanism, the screen mechanism comprises a screen exchanging assembly and a sliding assembly, the screen exchanging assembly is mounted on the sliding assembly and achieves exchanges of screens through the sliding assembly, the sliding assembly comprises at least one guide rail assembly in any angle, the screen exchanging assembly comprises at least two adjacently arranged movable screen devices, and the movable screen devices achieves front and back, left and right and any angle position exchange through the guide rail assembly. The present disclosure avoids a defect of time and labor consumption caused by manual replacement of the screens, reduces the labors and improves the production efficiency. 1. A device capable of automatically replacing screen mechanism for light curing 3D printer , comprising a resin tank and a worktable mounted on the resin tank , and further comprising a screen mechanism , wherein the screen mechanism comprises a screen exchanging assembly and a sliding assembly , the screen exchanging assembly is mounted on the sliding assembly and achieves exchanges of screens through the sliding assembly , the sliding assembly comprises at least one guide rail assembly in any angle , the screen exchanging assembly comprises at least two adjacently arranged movable screen devices , and the movable screen devices achieves front and back , left and right and any angle position exchange through the guide rail assembly.2. The device capable of automatically replacing screen mechanism for light curing 3D printer according to claim 1 , wherein each movable screen device comprises Z-axis columns mounted on the guide rail assembly claim 1 , a second screw centrally penetrating the columns claim 1 , a motor connected with the second screw ...

POWDER SUPPLY DEVICE FOR USE WITH POWDER SPREADERS

A powder supply device () for use with powder spreaders, comprising: a fixation base (), a powder storage unit (), a powder supply unit () and a driving unit (), wherein the powder supply unit () is provided with at least one stirring bar () and a powder spreading roller (); using a design of a stirring bar and the powder spreading roller, powder may be stirred and extruded such that the powder becomes finer, more uniform, and does not cake during powder spreading. 1. A powder supply device of a powder spreading apparatus , comprising:a holder;a powder storage unit including a barrel disposed on the holder and configured to store powder, and an outlet formed on a lower edge of the barrel and configured to output the powder;a powder supply unit including at least one stir bar pivoted on the holder and located below the outlet, and a powder roller pivoted on the holder and located below the stir bar; anda driving unit including a motor and a linkage assembly, wherein the motor is configured to drive the linkage assembly to rotate the stir bar and the powder roller.2. The powder supply device of the powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the powder supply unit further includes a scraper disposed on the holder and located below the powder roller.3. The powder supply device of the powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the stir bar includes a screw and a threaded portion claim 1 , and the threaded portion is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the screw.4. The powder supply device of the powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the powder roller includes a rod and a plurality of receiving slots claim 1 , and the receiving slots are spaced and concaved on an outer circumferential surface of the rod.5. The powder supply device of the powder spreading apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a section width of the barrel is tapered toward the outlet.6. The powder supply device of the powder spreading apparatus ...

INTEGRATED PRINT HEAD MAINTENANCE STATION FOR POWDER BED-BASED 3D PRINTING

The invention relates to a method and a device for protecting a print head () during layer-by-layer manufacture of a shaped part () using the binder jetting process, in which a plurality of elements required for preserving print head function act, and are housed, in a space which is partially sealed off by a gap seal (). 1. A maintenance and/or parking unit (parking station) for print heads , characterized in that said unit includes a gap seal.2. A system comprising a print head and a maintenance and/or parking unit (parking station) , wherein the print head , in its position retracted into the maintenance unit , substantially does not touch the components of the maintenance station and includes a gap seal.3. The system according to claim 2 , characterized in that it comprises a trough which is preferably sealed and can be filled with a liquid claim 2 , and which preferably comprises a liquid inlet and outlet and/or an anti-spill element or/and a spitting structure or/and a means for removing liquid from the print head claim 2 , preferablycharacterized in that it comprises a first liquid connection, preferably for a capping liquid, for feeding a liquid into the trough or/and a second liquid connection for overflow and draining from the trough, the drain preferably being an overflow connection.4. The system according to claim 3 , characterized in that the first and/or the second liquid connection is connected to one or more flexible tubes and/or the latter are connected to catchment means claim 3 , preferably one or more storage means claim 3 , preferably a storage reservoir claim 3 , and/or at least one of the flexible tubes is connected to a pump for filling the trough.5. The system according to claim 3 , characterized in that the trough has a chamfer claim 3 , which is preferably circumferential or/and has an angle of 40 to 50° claim 3 , preferably of 45° claim 3 , or/and a length of 2 to 4 mm claim 3 , preferably of 3 mm claim 3 , or/and a depth of 10 to 50 mm ...

POWDER-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING UNIT COMPRISING A BRUSH CLEANING DEVICE

A powder-based additive manufacturing installation () comprises a powder layering device () that can be displaced along a path linking a start zone (A) and an end zone (B). The layering device () comprises powder smoothing means () for depositing powder in a powder deposition zone (P) situated between the start zone (A) and the end zone (B). The installation furthermore comprises a cleaning device () situated on the path of the layering device (), the cleaning device () comprising a brushing device () for brushing at least one surface of the powder smoothing means (). 113.-. (canceled)14. A powder-based additive manufacturing installation comprising:a powder layering device that can be displaced along a path linking a start zone A and an end zone B, the powder layering device comprising powder smoothing means in a powder deposition zone P situated between the start zone A and the end zone B; anda cleaning device situated on the path of the powder layering device, the cleaning device comprising a brushing device for brushing at least one surface of the powder smoothing means.152. The powder-based additive manufacturing installation according to claim 14 , wherein the cleaning device comprises a powder suction device for discharging powder sucked by the power suction device to a dust extraction zone D claim 14 , which is isolated from the powder deposition zone P.16. The powder-based additive manufacturing installation according to claim 14 , wherein the brushing device comprises at least one brush provided with bristles that can bend when the powder layering device passes.172. The powder-based additive manufacturing installation according to claim 16 , wherein the cleaning device comprises a powder suction device for discharging powder sucked by the power suction device to a dust extraction zone D claim 16 , which is isolated from the powder deposition zone P claim 16 , and wherein the at least one brush is placed at the edge of a suction orifice of the suction ...

METHOD AND CONTAINER FOR REMOVING RESIN RESIDUES FROM A MODEL CREATED BY THREE-DIMENSIONAL 3D PRINTING

Method for removing resin residues from a model created by three-dimensional 3D printing, including the steps of creating a three-dimensional model through three-dimensional 3D printing, inserting the model into a container (), introducing a solvent () into the container () and moving the container () with the solvent () and the model by means of repeated linear movements. The application further relates to a container () for removing resin residues from a model created through three-dimensional 3D printing, the container () including a tank () adapted to contain a solvent (), a cover () adapted to close the tank () and means () for sealing the cover () to the tank (), wherein the cover () includes or is a base () of three-dimensional 3D printer, the base () including one or more anchoring elements () for a three-dimensional model. 1. Method for removing resin residues from a model created by three-dimensional 3D printing , the method comprising:creating a three-dimensional model through three-dimensional 3D printing;{'b': '10', 'inserting the model into a container ();'}{'b': 24', '10, 'introducing a solvent () into the container ();'}{'b': 10', '24, 'moving the container () with the solvent () and the model by means of repeated linear movements.'}224102410. The method according to claim 1 , wherein introducing a solvent () into the container () includes introducing a solvent () for not more than one third of an internal volume of the container ().324. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said solvent () includes alcohol.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein creating a three-dimensional model through three-dimensional 3D printing includes creating a three-dimensional model by stereolithography claim 1 , preferably or laser scanning stereolithography.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein creating a three-dimensional model includes creating a three-dimensional model of a tooth or part thereof.610. The method according to claim 1 , further ...

Extrusion Orifice Cleaning

Described is a self-cleaning extrusion orifice assembly including an enclosure, a cylindrical body inserted into the enclosure and terminated by an extrusion orifice. The self-cleaning extrusion orifice assembly is operated by a pressurized air flow. The pressurized air flow flushes surfaces of some elements of self-cleaning extrusion orifice assembly removing debris that could be deposited on these surfaces. In addition, some elements of self-cleaning extrusion orifice assembly are configured to scrape extrusion process debris from the same surfaces.

UNPACKING DEVICE FOR ADDITIVELY FABRICATED MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS

Described is an unpacking device for a construction container of a device for additively fabricating manufacturing products, wherein the construction container has a continuous construction container wall and a height-adjustable build platform mounted therein, along with a method for controlling such an unpacking device. The unpacking device includes at least a receiving chamber, an unpacking chamber, a partition wall between the receiving chamber and unpacking chamber with a transfer opening, a construction container lifting device designed to move a construction container from a construction container receiving position into a construction container unpacking position, a build platform lifting device located in the receiving chamber and designed to move a build platform from a build platform initial position into a build platform unpacking position, and a control device for outputting at least one control signal to the construction container lifting device and build platform lifting device. 1. An unpacking device for a construction container of a device for additively fabricating manufacturing products , the construction container of which has a continuous construction container wall and a height-adjustable build platform mounted therein , a receiving chamber for receiving a construction container,', 'an unpacking chamber located above the receiving chamber,', 'a partition wall between the receiving chamber and unpacking chamber with a transfer opening,', 'a construction container lifting device located in the receiving chamber, which is designed to move the construction container from a construction container receiving position into a construction container unpacking position,', 'a build platform lifting device located in the receiving chamber, which is designed to move a build platform from a build platform initial position into a build platform unpacking position, and', 'a control device for outputting at least one control signal to the construction container ...

STEREOLITHOGRAPHY ELASTIC FILM WITH ADJUSTABLE PEELING FORCE

A stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force applied to a stereolithography 3D printing apparatus, and the stereolithography elastic film includes at least one of a first colloid and a second colloid. The first colloid includes a non-polyelectrolyte and water, the water occupies the largest percentage in the first colloid. The second colloid includes a polyelectrolyte, a coagulant and water, the water occupies the largest percentage in the second colloid. The peeling force of the stereolithography elastic film may be adjusted by adjusting the percentage of at least one of the non-polyelectrolyte, the polyelectrolyte, the coagulant, and the water. 1. A stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force applied to a stereolithography 3D printing apparatus , and the stereolithography elastic film comprising:a first colloid including a non-polyelectrolyte and water, the water occupying a largest percentage in the first colloid,wherein a peeling force of the stereolithography elastic film is adjusted by adjusting a percentage of at least one of the non-polyelectrolyte and the water.2. The stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force in claim 1 , wherein the non-poly electrolyte includes an agar.3. The stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force in claim 2 , wherein the percentage of the agar is between 0.3% and 7% claim 2 , and the percentage of the water is between 93% and 99.7%.4. The stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force in claim 3 , wherein the percentage of the agar between is 0.5% and 5% claim 3 , and the percentage of the water is between 95% and 99.5%.5. The stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force in claim 1 , further comprising a third colloid claim 1 , the third colloid including one of locust bean gum (LBG) claim 1 , guar gum and konnyaku.6. The stereolithography elastic film with adjustable peeling force in claim 5 , wherein when the stereolithography ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR QUANTIFYING NOZZLE OCCLUSION IN 3D PRINTING

One embodiment can provide a system for detecting occlusion at an orifice of a three-dimensional (3D) printer nozzle while the printer nozzle is jetting liquid droplets. During operation, the system uses one or more cameras to capture an image of the orifice of the printer nozzle while the 3D printer nozzle is jetting liquid droplets. The system performs an image-analysis operation on the captured image to identify occluded regions within the orifice of the 3D printer nozzle, compute an occlusion fraction based on the determined occluded regions, and generate an output based on the computed occlusion fraction, thereby facilitating effective maintenance of the 3D printer. 1. A computer-executed method for determining a maintenance schedule for a three-dimensional (3D) printer nozzle , the method comprising:capturing an image of an orifice of the 3D printer nozzle while the 3D printer nozzle is jetting liquid droplets;analyzing the captured image to determine an occlusion fraction of the orifice of the 3D printer nozzle; anddetermining the maintenance schedule for the 3D printer nozzle based on the occlusion fraction and a predetermined occlusion threshold.2. The computer-executed method of claim 1 , further comprising adjusting the predetermined occlusion threshold based a quality requirement associated with printed products of the 3D printer.3. The computer-executed method of claim 1 , further comprising:capturing a sequence of images of the orifice over a time period;analyzing the sequence of images to determine time-varying changes of one or more occluded regions within the orifice.4. The computer-executed method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the captured image comprises computing a gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) for the captured image to obtain a texture-analysis outcome associated with the captured image.5. The computer-executed method of claim 4 , further comprising:applying an adaptive thresholding technique on the texture-analysis outcome to obtain a ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING PARTS USING DYNAMIC RESPONSE FUNCTION

A system and method for the non-destructive testing of additively manufactured parts. An input mechanism excites with an excitation force (e.g., a vibration) an additive manufacturing build structure, which includes a part on a build platform, to induce a dynamic response in the part. An output mechanism (e.g., a non-contact transducer) senses the induced dynamic response in the part. A processor determines and examines the relationship between the response and excitation to identify an indication of a defect in the part, and communicates an alert if the indication is identified. The processor may compare the phase, magnitude, coherence, or time delay of the relationship to a reference relationship and/or may compare the modal frequency or the modal damping to a reference to identify a deviation greater than a pre-established threshold. 1. A system for determination of a quality of a part being built using a laser-based additive manufacturing system , the system comprising:a first sensor configured to sense a characteristic of a laser beam or a laser source, the first sensor outputting a first electronic signal that includes electric voltage or current levels or digital data values which vary according to the characteristic being sensed;a second sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the part on a build structure of the additive manufacturing system, the second sensor outputting a second electronic signal that includes electric voltage or current levels or digital data values which vary according to the characteristic being sensed; and receive the first and second electronic signals,', 'determine a first variable quantity as a function of frequency from the first electronic signal,', 'determine a second variable quantity as a function of frequency from the second electronic signal, and', 'determine a response function from the first variable quantity and the second variable quantity., 'a computing device including a processing element that is programmed or ...

A BUILD MATERIAL SOURCE CONTAINER

There is provided a build material source container for use in a material management station of a three dimensional, 3D, printer. The source container defines a substantially enclosed space for holding build material and has an aperture for build material ingress and egress. At least part of the build material source container is formed from an electrically conductive material. The conductive material portion of the build material source container is connectable to Earth to discharge static electricity generated within the build material source container. 1. A build material source container for use in a material management station of a three dimensional , 3D , printer , the source container defining a substantially enclosed space for holding build material and having an aperture for build material ingress and egress;wherein at least part of the build material source container is formed from an electrically conductive material;wherein the conductive material portion of the build material source container is connectable to Earth to discharge static electricity generated within the build material source container;wherein the aperture is part of an outlet structure connectable to a connection unit for extracting build material from the source container by means of air pressure;wherein the outlet structure comprises an adapter to couple to a first end portion of the connection unit; andwherein the adapter when connected to the connection unit forms part of a static electricity discharge path;wherein the interconnector further secures the adapter to build material source container; orwherein the interconnector connects the adapter to the first end portion of the connection unit.23-. (canceled)4. The build material source container of claim 1 , wherein the adapter comprises at least one electrically conductive interconnector to electrically couple an electrically conductive portion of the build material source container to an electrically conductive portion of the ...

BUILD MATERIAL CONTAINER

An additive manufacturing build material container () comprises a reservoir to hold build material and a build material outlet structure (). 1. An additive manufacturing build material container comprising an upper portion of more than half the height of the reservoir, having relatively non-converging side walls,', 'a lower portion between the upper portion and a bottom, having converging side walls, at least in a filled state; and, 'a reservoir to hold build material including'}a build material outlet structure to allow build material to exit the reservoir.2. The container of wherein the upper portion is generally cubical shaped and the lower portion is generally pyramid shaped.3. The container of wherein the outlet structure includes an outlet opening in a top portion of the reservoir.4. The container of wherein the outlet structure includes an adaptor to connect to and disconnect from an external collection system claim 3 , the adaptor including an interface face around the outlet opening claim 3 , approximately perpendicular to an air or build material flow direction claim 3 , wherein at least one guide feature and at least one further interface feature are provided in the interface face.5. The container of wherein the outlet structure includes a sensor trigger structure that protrudes from a face of the outlet structure in a direction upwards claim 4 , to trigger a sensor of the collection system.6. The container of wherein the outlet structure includes a data interface to communicate build material parameters to a second data interface claim 4 , of the collection system claim 4 , when the adaptor is connected to the collecting system.7. The container of wherein the outlet structure includes a longitudinal collection unit to collect build material from the bottom and guide the build material to the outlet opening.8. The container of wherein the collection unit includes a tube claim 7 , extending in the reservoir from a top portion up to near a bottom of the ...

3D PRINTER WITH PRINT HEAD MAINTAINING FUNCTION AND MOVING ROUTE CONTROLLING METHOD THEREOF

A method of a 3D printer having a print platform (), a print head () including a 2D nozzle () and a 3D nozzle (), a cleaning element () for the 3D nozzle (), and a maintenance unit () for the 2D nozzle () is disclosed and including: controlling the print head () to perform printing under a working status; calculating, under a non-working status, a cleaning route destination () according to current position of the print head (), position of the cleaning element (), and a location offset between the 2D nozzle () and the 3D nozzle (); controlling the print head () to move to the cleaning route destination (); and, controlling the print head () to perform a compensation movement from the cleaning route destination () to the maintenance unit () according to the location offset for utilizing the maintenance unit () to maintain the 2D nozzle (). 11. A 3D printer () comprising:{'b': '11', 'a print platform () configured to support a printed object;'}{'b': 12', '122', '121', '122', '121, 'a print head () comprising a 2D nozzle () and a 3D nozzle (), the 2D nozzle () having a location offset with respect to the 3D nozzle ();'}{'b': 2', '121, 'a cleaning element () configured to clean the 3D nozzle (); and'}{'b': 21', '122, 'a maintenance unit () configured to maintain the 2D nozzle ();'}{'b': 1', '12', '11', '1, 'wherein the 3D printer () is configured to control the print head () to move on the print platform () and to print the printed object when the 3D printer () enters a working status;'}{'b': 1', '100', '12', '2', '1', '1', '12', '100', '12', '100', '122', '21, 'wherein the 3D printer () is configured to calculate a cleaning route destination () based on to a current location of the print head (), a location of the cleaning element (), and the location offset when the 3D printer () enters a non-working status, the 3D printer () is configured to control the print head () to move to the cleaning route destination () and move the print head () by a compensation movement ...

3D PRINTER HAVING MAINTENANCE STATION FOR PRINT HEAD AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME

A method of the 3D printer includes: controlling a print head to move toward a printing home location and utilizing a positioning sensor to sense a positioning point of the print head; performing initial positioning simultaneously to a 2D nozzle and a 3D nozzle based on the positioning point and location offsets among the positioning point, the 2D nozzle and the 3D nozzle; starting printing after the initial positioning is completed; controlling the print head to move toward a maintenance station when entering a non-work status and utilizing the positioning sensor to sense the positioning point of the print head; controlling the print head to perform a compensation movement according to the location offset between the location point and the 2D nozzle, so as to move the 2D nozzle into the maintenance station precisely. 1. A 3D printer , comprising:a print platform configured to support a printed object;a printing home location defined in the 3D printer;a print head comprising a 2D nozzle and a 3D nozzle, the print head comprising a positioning point, the 2D nozzle and the 3D nozzle respectively having a location offset with respect to the positioning point;a maintenance station; anda positioning sensor configured to sense the positioning point to facilitate positioning for the print head;wherein the 3D printer is configured to control the print head to move toward the printing home location and control the positioning sensor to sense the positioning point when the 3D printer enters a working status; the 3D printer is configured to perform an initial positioning for the 2D nozzle and the 3D nozzle based on the two location offsets and the positioning point and to start printing the printed object after the initial positioning is finished;wherein the 3D printer is configured to control the print head to move toward the maintenance station and control the positioning sensor to sense the positioning point when the 3D printer enters a non-working status; the 3D printer is ...

Additive Manufacturing Methods and Systems for Detection and Extraction of Impurities and Production of Compositions

An additive manufacturing system for extraction of impurities in additive manufacturing material, the system including an additive manufacturing machine for manufacturing a part using additive manufacturing material. The system may additionally include a conductive plate adjacent to the additive manufacturing material. The system can further include an energy source for distributing an electric charge through the conductive plate adjacent to the additive manufacturing material. Distributing the electric charge through the conductive plate can attract impurities from the additive manufacturing material to the conductive plate 1. An additive manufacturing system for extraction of impurities in additive manufacturing material , the system comprising:an additive manufacturing machine for manufacturing a part using additive manufacturing material;a conductive plate adjacent to the additive manufacturing material; andan energy source for distributing an electric charge through the conductive plate adjacent to the additive manufacturing material, wherein distributing the electric charge through the conductive plate attracts impurities from the additive manufacturing material to the conductive plate.2. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , further comprising:a light source for illuminating the conductive plate with light; anda camera for capturing image data of the conductive plate.3. The additive manufacturing system of claim 2 , further comprising:a computing device having one or more processors configured to execute instructions stored in memory for processing the image data to determine an amount of impurities on the conductive plate.4. The additive manufacturing system of claim 2 , wherein the conductive plate comprises:a glass plate; anda mirror coupled to the glass plate, wherein the mirror is configured to reflect scattered light sites where the impurities are present.5. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the conductive plate comprises ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING

A method of three-dimensional printing, comprises: operating a printing head having a nozzle array to dispense a building material formulation, wherein the printing head is directly connected to a cartridge containing the building material formulation, and wherein the printing head comprises a channel conveying a building material formulation received from the cartridge to the nozzle array; discarding the building material formulation from the channel; and connecting a cartridge containing a building material formulation that is different from the discarded building material formulation to the channel. 1. A method of three-dimensional printing , comprising:operating a printing head having a nozzle array to dispense a building material formulation, wherein the printing head is directly connected to a cartridge containing the building material formulation, and wherein the printing head comprises a channel conveying a building material formulation received from said cartridge to said nozzle array;discarding said building material formulation from said channel; andconnecting a cartridge containing a building material formulation that is different from said discarded building material formulation to said channel.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said printing head has a plurality of nozzle arrays dispensing at least two different building material formulations claim 1 , wherein the printing head is directly connected to a plurality of cartridges each containing a different building material formulation claim 1 , and wherein the printing head comprises a manifold with a plurality of channels claim 1 , each conveying a building material formulation received from a separate cartridge to a separate nozzle array.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein said discarding is of a first building material formulation from a first channel of said manifold claim 2 , and wherein said connecting is while maintaining at least one type of building material formulation ...