Method and apparatus for powder system recycler for printing process
US10967577B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 2018 |
| Grant date | Apr 6, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 2, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2101/12
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and powder system component of an apparatus for use in a printing process is disclosed, and for removing and recycling excess powder. The powder system results in a cutoff point of 3 microns rather than 50 microns of previous systems. The apparatus comprises a powder applicator, a powder remover, a helical cyclone, a powder collector, and two valves that alternately open and close. The two-valve system prevents air backflow. The powder is processed through the two-valve system. The method comprises: valve 1 is closed and powder accumulates; valve 2 is closed also; after valve 1 opens, powder goes through (there is no air backflow), then valve 1 closes; then valve 2 opens and allows powder onto a powder applicator; then valve 2 closes; then the cycle starts again.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.