System and method for removing support structure from three-dimensional printed objects using microwave energy and nanoparticles
US10350873B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 11, 2015 |
| Grant date | Jul 16, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 28, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB33Y80/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object facilitates the removal of support material from the object. The method includes forming at least a portion of a support for the object with support material containing nanoparticles of a material that readily converts microwave energy into heat. The object and support are moved to a position opposite a microwave radiator and the microwave radiator is operated to begin a change of the phase of the portion of the support material containing the nanoparticles before beginning a change of the phase of a portion of the support made from the support material alone. A controller either monitors the expiration of a predetermined time period or a temperature of the object to determine when the microwave radiator operation is terminated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.