Apparatus and method for making three-dimensional articles using bursts of droplets
US5555176A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 1994 |
| Grant date | Sep 10, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 19, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/49015
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus includes a processor for controlling a build material dispenser and a dispenser positioner to construct a three-dimensional article in successive layers based upon article defining data, and wherein the processor operates the dispenser to dispense a series of bursts of build material at a series of respective target positions as the dispenser is advanced along a predetermined path of travel. Each burst is defined by a plurality of droplets dispensed in relatively rapid succession so that the build material thereof combines at a respective target position. The build material dispenser is preferably a jet including a piezoelectric actuator for ejecting a droplet of build material responsive to a corresponding firing signal. Accordingly, the processor generates a predetermined number of firing signals for the piezoelectric actuator corresponding to a desired number of droplets in each burst. Method aspects of the invention are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.