Multi-material stereolithography

US7556490B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System · US

Inventors

• Ryan Wicker · El Paso, US
• Francisco Medina · El Paso, US
• Christopher Elkins · Chapel Hill, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 30, 2004
• Grant date: Jul 7, 2009
• Expiry date: Jan 25, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B29C64/124
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Methods and systems of stereolithography for building cost-efficient and time-saving multi-material, multi-functional and multi-colored prototypes, models and devices configured for intermediate washing and curing/drying is disclosed including: laser(s), liquid and/or platform level sensing system(s), controllable optical system(s), moveable platform(s), elevator platform(s), recoating system(s) and at least one polymer retaining receptacle. Multiple polymer retaining receptacles may be arranged in a moveable apparatus, wherein each receptacle is adapted to actively/passively maintain a uniform, desired level of polymer by including a recoating device and a material fill/remove system. The platform is movably accessible to the polymer retaining receptacle(s), elevator mechanism(s) and washing and curing/drying area(s) which may be housed in a shielded enclosure(s). The elevator mechanism is configured to vertically traverse and rotate the platform, thus providing angled building, washing and curing/drying capabilities. A horizontal traversing mechanism may be included to facilitate manufacturing between components of SL cabinet(s) and/or alternative manufacturing technologies.