Additive manufacturing using polymer materials
US11331847B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 29, 2018 |
| Grant date | May 17, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB33Y40/10
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods of additive manufacturing are provided, in which solid polymer material in form of strand(s) or particles is continuously received, and its surface is heated peripherally to liquefy the surface, using specified heating-related parameters which are selected to maintain a central volume of the continuously received solid polymer material in a solid state. The surface of a polymer substrate is also liquefied, and the peripherally heated surface of the continuously received solid polymer material is attached to the liquefied surface of the polymer substrate, followed by re-solidification of the liquefied surface to yield monolithic attachment of the material to the substrate. Liquefying only the surface of the material maintains some of its strength and prevents deformation upon solidification. The monolithic attachment provides uniform and controllable industrial products.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.