Solid imaging apparatus and method with coating station
US5626919A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 18, 1992 |
| Grant date | May 6, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 18, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2995/0073
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A solid imaging apparatus and method produces an integral three-dimensional object from a multiplicity of cross sectional portions of the object by selectively exposing successive layers of a liquid photoformable composition to actinic radiation. The apparatus includes a vessel for containing the composition so as to present a free surface, and a movable platform disposed within the vessel below the free surface. Part of the composition is transferred above the free surface by lowering and raising a dispenser at predetermined positions located away from the platform. A doctor blade contacts the composition transferred above the free surface, and then moves over the platform to form a substantially uniform layer of the composition.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.