Methods and apparatus for computer-assisted spray foam fabrication
US9566742B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 3, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 26, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24628
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In exemplary implementations of this invention, a nozzle sprays foam, layer by layer, to fabricate a fabricated object according to a CAD model, and a subtractive fabrication tool removes material from the fabricated object according to a CAD model. The fabricated object comprises a mold or an interior form. The foam may be low-density, high strength and fast-curing. The foam may be used for large-scale 3D printing. For example, the foam may be used to 3D print molds for walls of homes. The foam molds may be left in place, after casting concrete in the molds, to serve as insulation. Or for example, the foam may be used to 3D print on site an internal form for a large wind turbine blade. The wind turbine blade may then be produced on site by depositing fiberglass on the outside of the internal form.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.