Automated 3D-printing of hollow objects
US11840014B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 25, 2019 |
| Grant date | Dec 12, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 3, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2024/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods, particularly automated methods, are provided, as well as 3D-printed composite and hollow objects and 3D-printing systems for printing them. Methods comprise deriving a central line of a hollow 3D object model, calculating reference point(s) and/or line(s) along an inner surface of the hollow 3D object model, and filling the hollow 3D object model with material that comprises a thread defined with respect to the central line and the reference point(s) and/or line(s) and with filling material surrounding the thread. The support construction thus formed may be removed from the 3D object by pulling on the thread, extracting it and the surrounding support filling from the hollow object, thus enabling 3D-printing of convoluted or elongated hollow objects and objects with narrow openings. The parameters of the thread, such as type of curve and thickness, are selected to ensure thread extraction without risk of tearing or knotting the thread.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.