System and method for controlling flow through a 3D printer
US11883879B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 7, 2022 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB33Y50/02
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A 3D printer includes an ejector configured to receive a build material. The 3D printer also includes a valve configured to control flow of the build material into or through the ejector. The valve includes a cooler configured to cool the build material to below a melting point of the build material to form a solid plug to prevent the build material from flowing therethrough. The valve also includes a heater configured to re-heat the build material to above the melting point to allow the build material to flow therethrough. The 3D printer also includes a nozzle positioned downstream from the valve. The build material is ejected through the nozzle. The 3D printer also includes a substrate positioned below the nozzle. The build material lands on the substrate and cools and solidifies thereon to form a 3D object.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.