Recoating system for using high viscosity build materials in solid freeform fabrication
US6656410B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 17, 2002 |
| Grant date | Dec 2, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P10/25
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of applying highly viscous paste-like build materials in layers in a solid freeform fabrication apparatus to form three-dimensional objects. A viscosity modifier is first introduced into the build material to establish a low viscosity state and then the material is dispensed in layers on a working surface. The viscosity modifier is then removed from the build material preferably by evaporation, and the layer is selectively solidified to form the three-dimensional object. The method substantially eliminates the undesirable effects of induced shear stress imposed on lower layers when attempting to apply uniform layers of highly viscous materials in solid freeform fabrication techniques. The method allows for the use of highly viscous paste-like materials that can include upwards of 50% by weight of metallic, ceramic, mineral, or polymer powders. Preferably the binder is a photocurable resin or thermocurable material which is selectively solidified to form the three-dimensional objects.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.