Method for operating a multi-nozzle extruder using zig-zag patterns that provide improved structural integrity
US10870235B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 24, 2018 |
| Grant date | Dec 22, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 16, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2101/12
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An additive manufacturing system operates an actuator to move an extruder with reference to a selected first zig-zag pattern to sparsely fill an interior region of an object by extruding a swath of thermoplastic material that has straight portions connected by angled portions. After a first pass using the first zig-zag pattern is completed, a second zig-zag pattern is used to form a complementary swath that forms rigid structure with the first swath. Use of the two patterns is alternated to sparsely fill the interior region in multiple layers of the object until a predetermined distance from a solid fill structure or surface is detected. Transition patterns are then used to increase the density of the swaths in the interior region in the next successive layers of the object until the layer is reached where a solid fill surface is formed over the swaths formed using the transition patterns.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.