Model generation system having closed-loop extrusion nozzle positioning
US5303141A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 22, 1993 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 22, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P90/02
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and method for fabricating a three-dimensional object in accordance with a CAD-generated specification of the object. A closed-loop extrusion system (10) includes a nozzle (12) for extruding a material, such as a hot melt adhesive; apparatus (14, 18, 46) for controllably positioning the nozzle in accordance with the specification; and a sensor (60) for generating a feedback signal that is indicative of at least one characteristic of a most recently extruded portion of the material. Visual and non-visual feedback sensors may be employed, including optical sensors, infrared emission sensors, and proximity detection sensors. The specification of the object is converted to a bit-mapped representation thereof to improve accuracy relative to vector-based representations. Methods for determining a need for supporting structures and anti-aliasing features and for integrating the structures and features into the object specification are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.