System and method for three-dimensional printing
US9573321B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 4, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C64/264
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for preparing a layer of an object being fabricated by a three-dimensional printing process. Embodiments of the invention combine selective deposition with selective curing to benefit from the respective advantages of both techniques. Multiple printing heads deposit a two-dimensional cross section of the object being fabricated on a substrate which is transparent to curing radiation. The multiple printing heads selectively deposit different object body materials in different regions of the cross section and also selectively deposit regions of support material as necessary. The transparent substrate is then moved into registration with the object being fabricated so that the new layer is in contact with the object body, and an ultraviolet two-dimensional image of the cross section is projected through the substrate to selectively cure the new layer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.