Recoating stereolithographic layers
US6048487A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 11, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 5, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T156/17
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Improved apparatus and methods for forming a layer of material over a surface of a previously-formed cross-section of a three-dimensional object in anticipation of forming a next cross-section of the object out of the layer. A volume of material, including at least some excess material, is placed over the surface, and the excess material is swept off by placing the excess material in the predetermined path of a sweeping member, the path being substantially in a plane spaced from a working surface of material. The member may be directed to sweep the excess material away through a successive number of sweeps, which may vary for each cross-section, at least a velocity which may vary for each sweep. Additionally, the clearance between the member and the surface of the previous cross-section may vary for each sweep. A "winged" member is also provided, comprising two legs extending from a base, and a "Trident" embodiment is also provided, comprising three legs extending from a base.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.