Atmospheric plasma conduction pathway for the application of electromagnetic energy to 3D printed parts
US11446867B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 19, 2018 |
| Grant date | Sep 20, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2995/0005
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A three-dimensional (3D) printing process utilizing an atmospheric plasma to conduct an electromagnetic energy to fuse extruded successive layers of thermoplastic material having a conductive material is disclosed. A 3D printing system for the 3D printing process is also provided. The 3D printing system includes a 3D printer, an extrusion nozzle, a plasma emitter, and an electromagnetic energy source. The 3D printing process includes the steps of extruding a thermoplastic composite with the extrusion nozzle in successive layers to form a 3D part; directing a substantially evenly distributed plasma onto a predetermined location on the 3D part; and emitting an electromagnetic energy through the plasma. The plasma conducts the electromagnetic energy to the predetermined location on the 3D part. The thermoplastic composite includes a conductive material that generates heat by reacting to the electromagnetic energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.