The present invention is directed to methods of manufacturing certain biodegradable and/or compostable biobased particulate compositions for additive manufacturing which incorporate a homopolymer or copolymer of 3-hydroxy butyric acid. Specifically, the methods of manufacturing claimed and described herein include the steps of providing a starting material comprising said 3-hydroxy butyric acid; optionally, compacting the starting material to obtain a compacted material; heating to a temperature sufficient to prevent sticking to obtaining an annealed material; and milling into a powder having specified particle size values. In addition, the present invention is directed to additive manufacturing processes utilizing the biodegradable and/or compostable biobased particulate compositions elsewhere described, along with the articles printed therefrom.
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 105/00 - Condition, form or state of moulded material
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
C08G 63/06 - Polyesters derived from hydroxy carboxylic acids or from polycarboxylic acids and polyhydroxy compounds derived from hydroxy carboxylic acids
A method for calibrating a 3D printer includes the steps of providing information obtained in a factory calibration indicating a center of an inner diameter of a tip orifice in a metal extrusion nozzle and a center of a tip surface for the nozzle and inductively sensing the nozzle with an eddy current sensor when secured to a print head on a gantry or robotic arm of the 3D printer to identify a sensed location of the center of the tip surface of the nozzle. The method includes determining a location of the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice on the nozzle on the print head and utilizing the provided information to locate the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice.
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
G01B 7/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
G01B 11/12 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring diameters internal diameters
G01B 11/27 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes
6.
THERMAL RETENTION MANAGEMENT OF HEATED BUILD CHAMBER IN 3D PRINTER
A roller thermal isolator (300) configured to cover an opening in a heated build chamber (16) of a 3D printer includes a x-direction non-torsion roller isolator (310) with a first set of non-torsion rollers that retain portions of a x-direction sheet that is held in tension in the x- and y-directions as the tool tray moves in the x-direction. The roller thermal isolator (300) includes a y-direction non-torsion roller isolator with a second set of non-torsion rollers that are located at opposing edges of the opening in the x direction, each of the second set of non-torsion rollers retaining a portion of a y-direction sheet (400, 403) of the thermal isolator (300). Free ends of the y-direction portions of the thermal isolator are held in tension in the x-and y-directions as the tray moves in the y-direction.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
B29C 64/236 - Driving means for motion in a direction within the plane of a layer
A 3D printer includes an enclosed build chamber thermally separated from a tool chamber. An upward-facing tool tray coupled to or integral with a carriage has an open bottom providing a tool port for accessing the heated build chamber. A thermal barrier is mounted in the tool tray, covering the tool port but penetrable through an aperture thereof. The aperture provides an entry point to the build chamber for a working end of an active print head, wherein when the working end is positioned though the aperture, the tool port is substantially closed.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
One variation of a method for generating a print file for a target part includes, during a first time period: accessing test characteristics of a test build formed of a material and test print parameters executed during fabrication of the test build; deriving functions for the material relating subsets of part characteristics and print parameters; and storing the functions in a material profile for the material. This variation of the method further includes, during a second time period succeeding the first time period: accessing a virtual part model representing the target part formed of the material; based on the set of functions, calculating print parameter ranges for the target part, limited by a target value for a part characteristic received from the user; and serving the print file including the print parameter ranges to an additive manufacturing system for execution.
A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, which includes providing a part material that compositionally has one or more semi-crystalline polymers and one or more secondary materials that are configured to retard crystallization of the one or more semi-crystalline polymers, where the one or more secondary materials are substantially miscible with the one or more semi-crystalline polymers. The method also includes melting the part material in the additive manufacturing system, forming at least a portion of a layer of the three-dimensional part from the melted part material in a build environment, and maintaining the build environment at an annealing temperature that is between a glass transition temperature of the part material and a cold crystallization temperature of the part material.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29B 13/02 - Conditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped by heating
B29C 64/00 - Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 71/00 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shapeApparatus therefor
The invention is in the field of additive manufacturing. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an additive manufacturing process for producing a printed article, comprising the step of sintering a powder composition comprising a thermoplastic elastomer, wherein the powder composition has a melting onset temperature Tm,onset and a melting peak temperature Tm,peak, which are measured according to ISO 11357-1/3 (2009), wherein Tm,peak minus Tm,onset is 30° C. or less; and wherein a test article printed from the powder composition has a rebound resilience of 50% or more, measured according to DIN 53512. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a powder composition suitable for additive manufacturing sintering processes comprising the steps of: (a) providing a starting material comprising a thermoplastic elastomer; (b) heating the starting material of step (a) or the size-reduced material of step (c) to a temperature sufficient to increase the melting onset temperature of the material, thereby obtaining an annealed material; and (c) reducing the size of the starting material of step (a) or the annealed material of step (b) into a powder having a D50 particle size value of 20-150 m, thereby obtaining a size-reduced material, wherein size reduction step (c) is performed before or after heating step (b).
C09D 167/02 - Polyesters derived from dicarboxylic acids and dihydroxy compounds
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 71/00 - Use of polyethers as moulding material
A 3D printer includes a chamber configured to receive extruded material to print a part and a tool chamber above the chamber, the tool chamber comprising a viewing window and a tool rack. The 3D printer includes a plurality of print heads, each of the plurality of print heads residing in a docked position on the tool rack and when not in use. Each of the plurality of print heads comprising a illuminated status indicator configured to emit a plurality of signals indicative of a status or error of the print head or a status of the 3D printer, wherein the illuminated status indicator faces the viewing window and a plurality of sensors located on the print head or in the 3D printer and configured to detect a status of the print head or other printer components or an error in the print head or other printer components.
A method for 3D printing a part with an additive manufacturing system includes printing a first portion of a part in a layerwise manner and analyzing a topology of the first portion of the part. The method includes determining a tool path for printing a second portion of the part on a surface of the first portion of the part, and pre-heating the first portion of the part along the tool path as a function of the topological analysis of the first portion of the part. The method includes printing the second portion of the part along the tool path.
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
Three-dimensional fabrication resources are improved by adding networking capabilities to three-dimensional printers and providing a variety of tools for networked use of three-dimensional printers. Web-based servers or the like can provide a single point of access for remote users to manage access to distributed content on one hand, and to manage use of distributed fabrication resources on the other.
An extrusion-based 3D printer configured to print 3D parts in a layer-by-layer manner includes a platen configured to accept and support extruded material, at least one print head configured to extrude material to print a 3D part and a gantry configured to move the at least one print head as the material is extruded. The 3D printer includes at least one head carriage configured to engage the at least one print head. The at least one carriage is configured to engage and retain the at least one print head, where a filament cutter positioned above the at least one print head. The filament cutter includes a blade configured to be moved by the user, such that the blade is positionable between a non-cutting position where filament can be fed to the at least one print head and a cutting position wherein the filament is cut above the print head.
A method includes determining a plurality of distances between a representation of the part that is based on three-dimensional metrology data and a three-dimensional model of the part and applying each distance to a function to produce a plurality of function results. A single score is formed from the plurality of function results. The single score is displayed and at least one of the following is performed: comparing the single score to a single score of another part to determine whether changes made to a manufacturing process result in more accurate parts; determining whether the part is constructed accurately enough to warrant constructing additional copies of the part; or using the single score to determine whether the part is constructed accurately enough to warrant physical inspection.
A method for printing a 3D part in a layer-wise manner includes providing a pool of polymerizable liquid in a vessel over a build window and positioning a downward-facing build platform in the pool, thereby defining a build region above the build window. The method includes selectively curing a volume of polymerizable liquid in the build region by imparting electromagnetic radiation through the build window to form a printed layer of the part adhered to the build platform and actively cooling the build window to remove energy imparted by the electromagnetic radiation and the polymerization reaction of the polymerizable liquid such that the printed layer is between about 1° C. and about 30°° C. below an average part temperature prior to raising the print layer and printing the next layer.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/20 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
One variation of a tray assembly includes a tray cap that seals over a perimeter of a separation membrane, defines an outer aperture located around a build window of an additive manufacturing system, and defines a reservoir configured to store a resin. The tray assembly also includes a tray base: arranged below the separation membrane opposite the tray cap; including a rim defining an inner aperture inset from the outer aperture and locating a center region of the separation membrane over the build window; cooperating with the separation membrane to form a fluid manifold encircling the rim; and defining a set of orifices extending laterally through the rim and passing fluid between the fluid manifold and an interstitial between the separation membrane and the build window during inflation and deflation of the separation membrane. The tray assembly transiently installs in the additive manufacturing system adjacent the build window.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
A method for generating print images for additive manufacturing includes: accessing a part model; accessing a set of dimensional tolerances for the part model; and segmenting the part model into a set of model layers. The method also includes, and, for each model layer: detecting an edge in the model layer; assigning a dimensional tolerance to the edge; defining an outer exposure shell inset from the edge by an erosion distance inversely proportional to a width of the dimensional tolerance; defining an inner exposure shell inset from the outer exposure shell and scheduled for exposure separately from the outer exposure shell; defining an a outer exposure energy proportional to the width of the dimensional tolerance and assigned to the outer exposure shell; and defining an inner exposure energy greater than the outer exposure energy and assigned to the inner exposure shell.
G05B 19/4093 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by part programming, e.g. entry of geometrical information as taken from a technical drawing, combining this with machining and material information to obtain control information, named part programme, for the NC machine
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
The present invention is directed to certain biodegradable and/or compostable biobased particulate compositions for additive manufacturing, such as those including a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) powder, wherein the particulate composition and/or the PHA powder possesses (a) a free bulk density, as determined by ASTM D1895-96, of greater than 0.30 g/mL, and (b) a sinterability region of greater than 15 degrees Celsius. Also, the invention is directed to certain methods of manufacturing such biodegradable and/or compostable biobased particulate compositions useful as powdered build material for additive manufacturing processes. In addition, the present invention is directed to additive manufacturing processes utilizing the biodegradable and/or compostable biobased particulate compositions elsewhere described, along with the articles printed therefrom.
C09D 167/04 - Polyesters derived from hydroxy carboxylic acids, e.g. lactones
B29C 64/165 - Processes of additive manufacturing using a combination of solid and fluid materials, e.g. a powder selectively bound by a liquid binder, catalyst, inhibitor or energy absorber
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
C08G 63/06 - Polyesters derived from hydroxy carboxylic acids or from polycarboxylic acids and polyhydroxy compounds derived from hydroxy carboxylic acids
Provided is a photopolymerizable composition comprising a blend of: a) from 40 wt. % to 70 wt. % of at least one urethane component; b) from 25 wt. % to 70 wt % of at least one monofunctional reactive diluent; c) from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of at least one initiator; and d) from 2 wt. % to 10 wt % of an amine-functional (meth)acrylate monomer of formula (I), C═C—CO—O—R1—NR2R3 (I); e) optionally, at least one multiple-functional reactive diluent; f) optionally, from 0.001 wt. % to 1 wt. % of an inhibitor, wherein the wt. % in all instances is based on total weight of the photopolymerizable composition, wherein at least one of R1, R2, and R3 is an alkyl group, and wherein the amine-functional (meth)acrylate monomer is not an amide. Also provided is a process of producing a photopolymerizable composition, the process comprising blending the ingredients of the prior sentence. Further provided is a process of producing a three-dimensional object, the process comprising the steps of: A) depositing the photopolymerizable composition according to the first sentence atop a carrier to obtain a layer of a construction material joined to the carrier which corresponds to a first selected cross section of the precursor; B) depositing additional photopolymerizable composition atop a previously applied layer of the construction material to obtain a further layer of the construction material which corresponds to a further selected cross section of the precursor and which is joined to the previously applied layer, C) repeating step B) until the precursor is formed, wherein the depositing of the photopolymerizable composition at least in step B) comprises introducing energy to a selected region of the photopolymerizable composition corresponding to the respectively selected cross section of the object.
Provided is a composition comprising: A) an aliphatic polyurethane which comprises a reaction product of a first aliphatic polyisocyanate, a first polyol, and a thiol, optionally in the presence of a catalyst, and B) a urethane (meth)acrylate prepolymer, optionally a reactive diluent, and a photoinitiator, wherein the urethane (meth)acrylate prepolymer comprises a reaction product of a second aliphatic polyisocyanate, a second polyol and an acrylate, wherein the reactive diluent comprises a (meth)acrylate monomer, wherein the first aliphatic polyisocyanate and second aliphatic polyisocyanate may be identical or different, and wherein the first polyol and the second polyol may be identical or different. Also provided is a process comprising combining: A) a polyurethane which comprises a reaction product of a first aliphatic polyisocyanate, a first polyol, and a thiol, optionally in the presence of a catalyst, and B) a urethane (meth)acrylate prepolymer, a reactive diluent, and a photoinitiator, wherein the urethane (meth)acrylate prepolymer comprises a reaction product of a second aliphatic polyisocyanate, a second polyol and an acrylate, wherein the reactive diluent comprises a (meth)acrylate monomer, wherein the first aliphatic polyisocyanate and second aliphatic polyisocyanate may be identical or different, and wherein the first polyol and the second polyol may be identical or different. The compositions of the invention may find use in 3D printing applications.
C09D 175/14 - Polyurethanes having carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29K 33/00 - Use of polymers of unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof, as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
An extrusion-based 3D printer (10) configured to print parts (74) in a layer-wise manner includes a build chamber (16) and an unheated region (18) above the build chamber (16). A print head (24) is located in the unheated region (18) and moves in an x-y plane across the build chamber (16) and is lifted and lowered in a z dimension where a nozzle (25) of the print head (24) is configured to extend into the build chamber (16) when the print head (24) is lowered. The printer (10) includes an umbilical (57) within the unheated region (18) configured to support a plurality of operational feeds (54, 70, 72), the umbilical (57) having a length between a first end and a second end that is configured to be coupled to the print head (24). The umbilical (57) includes a backbone (76) running the length of the umbilical (57) configured to provide support and flexibility to the plurality of operational feeds (54, 70, 72) and a plurality of fixtures (80) spaced along a length of the umbilical (57).
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturingAuxiliary means for additive manufacturingCombinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
A resin comprises: A) a (meth)acrylate-functional compound; B) a polyisocyanate; C) a radical starter and D) a catalyst. The compound A) has an equivalent molecular weight with respect to (meth)acrylate C═C double bonds of ≥500 g/mol and an average number of (meth)acrylate groups per molecule of ≥1.8 to ≤2.2, the polyisocyanate B) has an average NCO group functionality of ≥2 and an equivalent molecular weight with respect to NCO groups of ≤300 g/mol, the catalyst D) is an isocyanate trimerization catalyst and the resin is free from NCO-reactive compounds or, if NCO-reactive compounds are present in the resin, the molar ratio of NCO groups to NCO-reactive groups is ≥5:1.
A resin comprises: A) a (meth)acrylate-functional compound; B) a polyisocyanate; C) a radical starter and D) a catalyst. The compound A) has an equivalent molecular weight with respect to (meth)acrylate C═C double bonds of ≥500 g/mol and an average number of (meth)acrylate groups per molecule of ≥1.8 to ≤2.2, the polyisocyanate B) has an average NCO group functionality of ≥2 and an equivalent molecular weight with respect to NCO groups of ≤300 g/mol, the catalyst D) is an isocyanate trimerization catalyst and the resin is free from NCO-reactive compounds or, if NCO-reactive compounds are present in the resin, the molar ratio of NCO groups to NCO-reactive groups is ≥5:1.
Such resins may form hybrid polymer networks.
The present invention relates to a method for producing an at least partially coated object and to an at least partially coated object obtained by the method. The method comprises bringing the object completely or partly into contact with a treating agent; leaving the object at 10° C.-30° C. and 100 mbar-800 mbar for 3-10 minutes; and heat-treating the object at a temperature of 70° C.-90° C. after returning to normal pressure; wherein the object is produced from a construction material by means of an additive manufacturing method, and the construction material comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane; and wherein the treating agent comprises an aqueous polyurethane dispersion and a water-dispersible polyisocyanate, and the viscosity of the treating agent is 100 mPas-550 mPa·s, measured under the condition of spindle L 2/30 rpm according to standard DIN 53019; and wherein the amount of the solid constituent of the aqueous polyurethane dispersion is 36% by weight to 70% by weight, and the amount of the solid constituent of the water-dispersible polyisocyanate is 4% by weight to 8% by weight, relative to the total weight of the treating agent, wherein the terms “normal pressure” and “solid constituent” are defined as specified in the description. The at least partially coated object of the present invention has good mechanical properties and good surface effect.
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
The invention is in the field of additive manufacturing. There is provided a method for manufacturing a powder composition having a D50 particle size value of 20-150 microns suitable for powder bed fusion additive manufacturing processes, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a particulate starting material comprising a semicrystalline polymer; (b) optionally, compacting the starting material with a compacting pressure of >5 kN/cm2, thereby obtaining a compacted material; (c) optionally, reducing the size of the particulate starting material or the compacted material; (d) dry blending the starting material, the compacted material, or the size-reduced material with a pigment using high shear mixing; (e) optionally, size fractionating the starting material, the compacted material, the size-reduced material and/or the dry blended material. There is also provided a powder composition having a D50 particle size value of 20- 150 microns, preferably obtainable by a such a method, suitable for additive manufacturing powder bed fusion processes, comprising a semicrystalline polymer and a pigment, wherein the powder composition has a reflectance at 800 nm of 30 % or less, preferably 25 % or less. There is also provided an additive manufacturing method for the layerwise formation of a three-dimensional article from such a powder composition, wherein the method comprises a step of selectively fusing a cross section of the article within each of a plurality of successive layers by applying fusing radiation, as well as an article comprising a semicrystalline polymer, obtainable by a such a method.
The invention is in the field of additive manufacturing. There is provided a positive model of one or more teeth and/or gum, suitable for producing a dental aligner, the model comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). There is also provided such a model, comprising sintering or fusing a powder comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA).
A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial denturesDowel pins
A61K 6/891 - Compounds obtained otherwise than by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
A sulfonated water-dispersible thermoplastic copolymer material for use as a support material in an additive manufacturing process is made by a method comprising providing a selected thermoplastic copolymer having an acid or an anhydride group; esterifying the acid group of the selected thermoplastic copolymer with a hydroxyl-functionalized sulfonate salt, or amidizing the acid group of the selected thermoplastic copolymer with an amine sulfonate salt, or imidizing the anhydride group of the selected thermoplastic copolymer with an amine sulfonate salt. The esterification, the amidization or the imidization results in a sulfonated water thermoplastic dispersible copolymer having a glass transition temperature suitable to provide an effective support during the additive manufacturing process and wherein the sulfonated water-dispersible thermoplastic copolymer will disperse in tap water in less than 1 hour.
C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B29K 33/00 - Use of polymers of unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof, as moulding material
B29K 105/00 - Condition, form or state of moulded material
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink
29.
SYSTEM FOR TRAY CLEANING AND RESIN COLLECTION IN AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
One variation of a system includes a chassis: defining a set of platform mounts defining a pivot axis; and a slot arranged between the set of platform mounts and configured to transiently retain a filter receptacle below the pivot axis. The system further includes a tray platform: pivotably coupled to the set of platform mounts; defining a tray-receiving section configured to receive a tray defining a fluid release point and configured to retain a volume of resin; and defining a set of supports arranged about the tray-receiving section and configured to locate the fluid release point at the fixed pivot location. The system further includes a tray lock coupled to the platform and configured to transiently generate a magnetic field to draw the tray against the tray-receiving section and cooperate with the set of tray supports to constrain the fluid release point to the fixed pivot location.
Radiation curable compositions for additive fabrication processes, the components cured therefrom, and their use in particle image velocimetry testing methods are described and claimed herein. Such compositions include compounds which induce free-radical polymerization, optionally compounds which induce cationic polymerization, a filler constituent, and a light absorbing component, wherein the compositions are configured to possess certain absorbance coefficients at wavelengths commonly utilized in particle image velocimetry testing. In another embodiment, the compositions include a fluorantimony-modified compound. Such compositions may be used in particle imaging velocimetry testing methods, wherein the test object utilized is created via additive fabrication and is of a substantially homogeneous construction.
G01P 5/20 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the time taken by the fluid to traverse a fixed distance using particles entrained by a fluid stream
31.
Tip calibration in an additive manufacturing system
A method for calibrating a 3D printer includes the steps of providing information obtained in a factory calibration indicating a center of an inner diameter of a tip orifice in a metal extrusion nozzle and a center of a tip surface for the nozzle and inductively sensing the nozzle with an eddy current sensor when secured to a print head on a gantry or robotic arm of the 3D printer to identify a sensed location of the center of the tip surface of the nozzle. The method includes determining a location of the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice on the nozzle on the print head and utilizing the provided information to locate the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice.
G01B 7/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
G01B 11/12 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring diameters internal diameters
G01B 11/27 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
The hardware and software properties of a three-dimensional printer can be queried and applied to select suitable directly printable models for the printer, or to identify situations where a new machine-ready model must be generated. The properties may be any properties relevant to fabrication including, e.g., physical properties of the printer, printer firmware, user settings, hardware configurations, and so forth. A printer may respond to configuration queries with a dictionary of capabilities or properties, and this dictionary may be used to select suitable models, or determine when a new model must be created. Similarly, when a printable model is sent to the printer, metadata for the printable model may be compared to printer properties in the dictionary to ensure that the model can be fabricated by the printer.
Liquid radiation curable compositions are disclosed which are suitable for hybrid (i.e. cationic and free-radical) polymerization when processed via additive fabrication equipment utilizing sources of actinic radiation with peak spectral intensities in the UV/vis region. According to one aspect, the compositions possess a first photoinitiator that is an iodonium salt of a non-fluorinated borate anion. According to another aspect, the composition is substantially devoid of a Norrish Type I and/or Type II photoinitiator. Also disclosed are methods of creating three-dimensional parts via additive fabrication processes utilizing sources of actinic radiation with peak spectral intensities in the UV/vis region employing liquid radiation curable compositions suitable for hybrid polymerization, and the parts cured therefrom.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
A method includes: accessing a part model comprising a three-dimensional representation of a part; accessing a material profile relating exposure energy and three-dimensional polymerization geometry of a material selected for the part; segmenting the part model into a set of model layers; detecting a first upward-facing surface in the part model; defining a first model volume in a first model layer, adjacent the first upward-facing surface, and fully contained within the part model; based on the material profile, calculating a first exposure energy predicted to yield a first three-dimensional polymerization geometry approximating a first contour of the first upward-facing surface when projected onto the material during a build; populating a first print image with the first exposure energy in a first image area corresponding to the first model volume in the first model layer; and storing the first print image in a print file for the part.
G06F 30/17 - Mechanical parametric or variational design
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturingAuxiliary means for additive manufacturingCombinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
A method of printing a multi-material part in a layer-wise manner with an extrusion-based 3D printer includes providing a sliced digital model of a multi-material part and determining a number of materials in each of the slices of the digital mode. The method includes utilizing a digital model of a purge tower having N subdivisions having a closed geometry, wherein N is the number of print heads needed to print the part that is greater than or equal to three, each adjacent subdivision contact one another along an interface and assigning each print head to one subdivision and to tool paths forming the one subdivision in each layer. The method includes reassigning the assigned subdivision within the purge tower of an inactive print head in a layer to a print head that is active in the layer of the multi-material part.
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
Matrix-filled liquid radiation curable resin compositions for additive fabrication are described and claimed. Such resins include a cationically polymerizable component that is an aliphatic epoxide, a multifunctional (meth)acrylate component, a cationic photoinitiator, a free-radical photo initiator, and a matrix of inorganic fillers, wherein the matrix further constitutes prescribed ratios of at least one microparticle constituent and at least one nanoparticle constituent. Also described and claimed is a process for using the matrix-filled liquid radiation curable resins for additive fabrication to create three dimensional parts, and the three-dimensional parts made from the liquid radiation curable resins for additive fabrication.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
C08L 33/10 - Homopolymers or copolymers of methacrylic acid esters
G03F 7/00 - Photomechanical, e.g. photolithographic, production of textured or patterned surfaces, e.g. printed surfacesMaterials therefor, e.g. comprising photoresistsApparatus specially adapted therefor
A photo-curable composition can include a photo-curable resin and a photoinitiator. The photo-curable composition can typically include a (meth)acrylate-terminated prepolymer, a second prepolymer, and a reactive diluent.
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
C08F 220/20 - Esters of polyhydric alcohols or phenols
C08F 283/00 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers provided for in subclass
C08G 18/12 - Prepolymer processes involving reaction of isocyanates or isothiocyanates with compounds having active hydrogen in a first reaction step using two or more compounds having active hydrogen in the first polymerisation step
A 3D printer includes a gantry configured to move in a plane substantially parallel to a x-y build plane and a print head configured to extrude molten material to print a 3D part in a layer-by-layer process. The 3D printer includes a platen configured to support the part being printed in the layer by layer process and positionable with a primary Z positioner along a z-axis substantially normal to the x-y build plane. The 3D printer includes a local Z positioner moved by the gantry, the local Z positioner comprising a linear motor configured to move the print head in the z-direction and having an operable range of motion extending from a nominal build position at which a nozzle of the print head is positioned in the x-y build plane to a raised position above the x-y build plane.
A photo-curable composition can include a photo-curable resin and a photoinitiator. The photo-curable composition can typically include a (meth)acrylate-terminated prepolymer, a second prepolymer, and a reactive diluent.
A method includes providing values for a set of tunable build parameters (208) corresponding to a print job specification to a user interface, and in response to user modification or selection of the tunable build parameters (208), computing values for a set of additional build parameters (214). A data package (216,222) is created based on the values for the tunable build parameters (208) and the set of additional build parameters (214) and data files are then sent to one or more 3D printers (224,226) and one or more slicing programs (218, 220).
The present disclosure is directed to pulverulent thermoplastic polymer blends comminuted to a particle size of less than 300 μm. The pulverulent thermoplastic polymer blends can include a first thermoplastic polyurethane and a second thermoplastic polyurethane at a weight ratio of from about 90:10 to about 30:70 first thermoplastic polyurethane to second thermoplastic polyurethane. The first thermoplastic polyurethane can include a reaction product of a first reaction mixture consisting of or consisting essentially of an aliphatic diisocyanate having a number average molecular weight of from 140 g/mol to 170 g/mol and an aliphatic diol having a number average molecular weight of from 62 g/mol to 120 g/mol. The second thermoplastic polyurethane can include a reaction product of a second reaction mixture comprising a polyisocyanate, an isocyanate-reactive component having a number average molecular weight of from 500 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol, and a chain extender having a number average molecular weight of from 60 g/mol to 450 g/mol.
B29B 9/12 - Making granules characterised by structure or composition
B29B 13/10 - Conditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped by grinding, e.g. by trituratingConditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped by sievingConditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped by filtering
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
A method for 3D printing a part in a layer-wise manner includes providing a pool of polymerizable liquid in a vessel over a build window and positioning a downward-facing build platform in the pool, thereby defining a build region above the build window. The method includes selectively curing a volume of polymerizable liquid in the build region by imparting electromagnetic radiation through the build window to form a printed layer of the part adhered to the build platform and scanning at least a portion of the build window with monochromatic, polarized light along a plane of incidence. The method includes measuring a change in intensity and polarity of the light to obtain information about the printed layer. The method includes raising the build platform to a height of a next layer to be printed and modifying the electromagnetic energy imparted into the next layer based upon the obtained information to print a next layer. The imparting, scanning, measuring, raising and modifying steps are repeated until the part is printed.
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
A consumable assembly for a 3D printer includes a spool carrying wound filament. The spool is configured to be installed into a spool cabinet to maintain the filament in a controlled environment. A filament key fob that carries a spool chip programmed with identification data for the consumable assembly is tethered to the spool. The filament key fob is configured to be received in a dock of the 3D printer outside of a controlled environment of a chamber of the spool cabinet while remaining tethered to the spool installed in the chamber of the spool cabinet.
A consumable assembly for a 3D printer includes a spool carrying wound filament. A 3D printer includes a print head configured to receive filament material and a spool cabinet configured to have a filament spool positioned therein to provide a controlled environment for filament on the filament spool. A dock of the 3D printer is located outside of a chamber of the spool cabinet and is configured to receive a filament key fob, including a spool chip, of the filament spool to maintain the spool chip outside of the controlled environment of the chamber.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
A consumable assembly for a 3D printer (10) includes a spool (208,210) carrying wound filament (202). The spool is configured to be installed into a spool cabinet (52) to maintain the filament in a controlled environment. A filament key fob (204) that carries a spool chip programmed with identification data for the consumable assembly is tethered to the spool. The filament key fob is configured to be received in a dock (68) of the 3D printer outside of a controlled environment of a chamber (54) of the spool cabinet while remaining tethered to the spool installed in the chamber of the spool cabinet.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/259 - Enclosures for the building material, e.g. powder containers interchangeable
B29C 64/307 - Handling of material to be used in additive manufacturing
A method for generating print images for additive manufacturing includes: accessing a part model; accessing a set of dimensional tolerances for the part model; and segmenting the part model into a set of model layers. The method also includes, and, for each model layer: detecting an edge in the model layer; assigning a dimensional tolerance to the edge; defining an outer exposure shell inset from the edge by an erosion distance inversely proportional to a width of the dimensional tolerance; defining an inner exposure shell inset from the outer exposure shell and scheduled for exposure separately from the outer exposure shell; defining an a outer exposure energy proportional to the width of the dimensional tolerance and assigned to the outer exposure shell; and defining an inner exposure energy greater than the outer exposure energy and assigned to the inner exposure shell.
G05B 19/4093 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by part programming, e.g. entry of geometrical information as taken from a technical drawing, combining this with machining and material information to obtain control information, named part programme, for the NC machine
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
Goods & Services
Providing extended warranties and extended warranty services on 3D printers; and providing pre-paid service and self-service plans and extended service and self-service plans on 3D printers
50.
USE OF AN ELASTIC POLYMER FOR PRODUCTION OF A POROUS BODY IN AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHOD
It is a feature of a use of an elastic polymer for production of a porous body (in an additive manufacturing method that the porous body comprises a three-dimensional network of node points joined to one another by struts, and a void volume present between the struts, where the struts have an average length of ≥200 μm to ≤50 mm and the struts (100) have an average thickness of ≥100 μm to ≤5 mm. The polymer here is an elastomer selected from the following group: thermoset polyurethane elastomers (PUR), thermoplastic copolyamides (TPA), thermoplastic copolyesters (TPC), thermoplastic olefin-based elastomers (TPO), styrene block copolymers (TPS), thermoplastic urethane-based elastomers (TPU), crosslinked thermoplastic olefin-based elastomers (TPV), thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride-based elastomers (PVC), thermoplastic silicone-based elastomers and a combination of at least two of these elastomers.
Described herein are thermoset compositions and kits of compositions suitable for use in additive fabrication processes including specified concentrations of reactive compounds including urethane-(meth)acrylate compounds, monofunctional diluent monomers, and methacrylate-functional compounds having 1.5 polymerizable groups or more. Also described and claimed are methods of creating three-dimensional parts via additive fabrication processes utilizing the compositions elsewhere herein described and claimed, as well as the articles cured therefrom.
C08G 18/12 - Prepolymer processes involving reaction of isocyanates or isothiocyanates with compounds having active hydrogen in a first reaction step using two or more compounds having active hydrogen in the first polymerisation step
C08G 18/04 - Polymeric products of isocyanates or isothiocyanates with vinyl compounds
52.
UNSUPPORTED PART WITH A ROBOTIC ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM
A method of printing a hollow part with a robotic additive manufacturing system includes extruding thermoplastic material onto a build platform movable in at least two degrees of freedom in a helical pattern along a continuous 3D tool path with an extruder mounted on a robotic arm, to thereby print a hollow member having a length and a diameter. The method includes orienting the hollow member during printing by moving the build platform based on a geometry of the hollow member wherein the movement of the build platform and the movement of the robotic arm are synchronized to print the part without support structures.
B25J 9/04 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by movement of the arms, e.g. cartesian co-ordinate type by rotating at least one arm, excluding the head movement itself, e.g. cylindrical co-ordinate type or polar co-ordinate type
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
An extrusion-based 3D printer configured to print 3D parts in a layer-by-layer manner includes a heated build chamber, a build platen within the chamber and at least one print head configured to extrude material onto the build platen or previously extruded material wherein the at least one print head is configured to move in a print plane. The 3D printer includes at least one air intake and exhaust system that includes ductwork having an inlet configured to intake air from the build chamber and an outlet configured to exhaust air into the build chamber proximate the build plane, a fan proximate the inlet and configured to draw air into the ductwork through the inlet and propel the air towards the outlet, a heater proximate the outlet, the heater configured to heat the air as the air passes the heater and a perforated diffuser plate between the fan and the heater.
A method of forming a three-dimensional object comprises the steps of forming a layer of a particulate composition, selectively depositing a liquid composition onto the layer of the particulate composition in accordance with computer data corresponding to the shape of at least a portion of a three-dimensional object, and repeating the steps a plurality of times to form a three-dimensional object. The particulate composition comprises a plurality of first particles that comprise a resin component comprising a first resin, the first resin comprising a first resin polymerizable group. Either or both of the particulate composition and the liquid composition comprise an initiator capable of initiating polymerization of at least the first resin. At least the first resin undergoes melting and polymerization in a plurality of the locations where the liquid composition has been selectively deposited.
B29C 64/165 - Processes of additive manufacturing using a combination of solid and fluid materials, e.g. a powder selectively bound by a liquid binder, catalyst, inhibitor or energy absorber
B29C 64/291 - Arrangements for irradiation for operating globally, e.g. together with selectively applied activators or inhibitors
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
C08F 2/48 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light
C08F 216/12 - Copolymers of compounds having one or more unsaturated aliphatic radicals, each having only one carbon-to-carbon double bond, and at least one being terminated by an alcohol, ether, aldehydo, ketonic, acetal, or ketal radical by an ether radical
C08F 220/18 - Esters of monohydric alcohols or phenols of phenols or of alcohols containing two or more carbon atoms with acrylic or methacrylic acids
A layer-by layer method for additive manufacturing that includes: photocuring a first volume of resin to form a layer of a build at an upper surface of a separation membrane laminated over a build window; injecting a fluid into an interstitial region between the separation membrane and the build window; retracting the build from the build window; evacuating the fluid from the interstitial region; and photocuring a second volume of liquid resin to form a subsequent layer of the build between an upper surface of a separation membrane and the previous layer of the build.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
A water dispersible sulfo-polyamide is configured as a filament for use as an extrudable support material in the additive manufacture of a part comprising a non water dispersible polymer. The water dispersible sulfo-polyamide is a reaction product of a sulfo monomer, the water dispersible sulfo-polymer being dispersible in water resulting in separation of the water dispersible polymer from the part comprising the non water dispersible polymer.
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
G03G 15/22 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern involving the combination of more than one step according to groups
G03G 15/16 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern
B29C 64/106 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material
C08G 18/38 - Low-molecular-weight compounds having hetero atoms other than oxygen
An extruder or other similar tool head of a three-dimensional printer is slidably mounted along a feedpath of build material so that the extruder can move into and out of contact with a build surface according to whether build material is being extruded. The extruder may be spring-biased against the forward feedpath so that the extruder remains above the build surface in the absence of applied forces, and then moves downward into a position for extrusion when build material is fed into the extruder. In another aspect, modular tool heads are disclosed that can be automatically coupled to and removed from the three-dimensional printer by a suitable robotics system. A tool crib may be provided to store multiple tool heads while not in use.
B29C 67/00 - Shaping techniques not covered by groups , or
B29C 35/08 - Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanising by wave energy or particle radiation
B29C 48/02 - Small extruding apparatus, e.g. handheld, toy or laboratory extruders
B29C 48/25 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B29C 48/285 - Feeding the extrusion material to the extruder
B29C 48/80 - Thermal treatment of the extrusion moulding material or of preformed parts or layers, e.g. by heating or cooling at the plasticising zone, e.g. by heating cylinders
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
An induction sensing method for identifying the center of a tip surface of a nozzle of print head of a 3D printer includes providing an eddy current sensor in a fixed position and providing a metal nozzle with a tip orifice in a main body and a tip surface about the tip orifice. The method includes moving the metal nozzle over the eddy current sensor in a predetermined motion path above the eddy current sensor while the eddy current sensor remains stationary and samples the magnitude of inductance in a generated inductive field, thereby generating a curve representing the inductive field. The method includes identifying a maximum amplitude of the curve to identify the center of the tip surface.
G01D 5/20 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying inductance, e.g. by a movable armature
A method includes: accessing a part model comprising a three-dimensional representation of a part; accessing a material profile relating exposure energy and three-dimensional polymerization geometry of a material selected for the part; segmenting the part model into a set of model layers; detecting a first upward-facing surface in the part model; defining a first model volume in a first model layer, adjacent the first upward-facing surface, and fully contained within the part model; based on the material profile, calculating a first exposure energy predicted to yield a first three-dimensional polymerization geometry approximating a first contour of the first upward-facing surface when projected onto the material during a build; populating a first print image with the first exposure energy in a first image area corresponding to the first model volume in the first model layer; and storing the first print image in a print file for the part.
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturingAuxiliary means for additive manufacturingCombinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
A method includes: accessing a part model comprising a three-dimensional representation of a part; accessing a material profile relating exposure energy and three-dimensional polymerization geometry of a material selected for the part; segmenting the part model into a set of model layers; detecting a first upward-facing surface in the part model; defining a first model volume in a first model layer, adjacent the first upward-facing surface, and fully contained within the part model; based on the material profile, calculating a first exposure energy predicted to yield a first three-dimensional polymerization geometry approximating a first contour of the first upward-facing surface when projected onto the material during a build; populating a first print image with the first exposure energy in a first image area corresponding to the first model volume in the first model layer; and storing the first print image in a print file for the part.
G06F 30/17 - Mechanical parametric or variational design
G06F 113/10 - Additive manufacturing, e.g. 3D printing
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturingAuxiliary means for additive manufacturingCombinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
The hardware and software properties of a three-dimensional printer can be queried and applied to select suitable directly printable models for the printer, or to identify situations where a new machine-ready model must be generated. The properties may be any properties relevant to fabrication including, e.g., physical properties of the printer, printer firmware, user settings, hardware configurations, and so forth. A printer may respond to configuration queries with a dictionary of capabilities or properties, and this dictionary may be used to select suitable models, or determine when a new model must be created. Similarly, when a printable model is sent to the printer, metadata for the printable model may be compared to printer properties in the dictionary to ensure that the model can be fabricated by the printer.
A method of moving a print head between a plurality of partitioned chambers in a 3D printer includes providing the 3D printer having a thermal barrier having an area defined by a length and width, wherein a print head nozzle can be positioned through the thermal barrier along the width or the length and at least two partitioned chambers below the area of the thermal barrier, wherein a first chamber comprises a printing chamber and a second chamber comprises a chamber providing another functionality. The method includes raising the print head in a z direction from the second chamber to above the thermal barrier and moving the print head in a x-y direction from above the second chamber over the partition to a location above the first chamber. The method also includes lowering the print head in the z direction and into the first chamber such that an extrusion port of a nozzle of the print head is proximate a x-y print plane.
An induction sensing method for identifying the center of a tip surface of a nozzle (604) of print head of a 3D printer includes providing an eddy current sensor (610) in a fixed position and providing a metal nozzle (604) with a tip orifice in a main body and a tip surface about the tip orifice. The method includes moving the metal nozzle (604) over the eddy current sensor (610) in a predetermined motion path above the eddy current sensor (610) while the eddy current sensor remains stationary and samples the magnitude of inductance in a generated inductive field, thereby generating a curve representing the inductive field. The method includes identifying a maximum amplitude of the curve to identify the center of the tip surface.
G01B 7/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques
B29C 64/236 - Driving means for motion in a direction within the plane of a layer
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
64.
3D PRINTER WITH A PLURALITY OF PARTITIONED CHAMBERS
A 3D printer includes a gantry configured to move in a plane and in a direction substantially normal to the plane and at least one print head carried by the gantry, the at least on print head comprising an extrusion nozzle at a bottom end. The 3D printer includes a plurality of partitioned chambers accessible by the at least one print head, each of the partitioned chambers having an upper edge defining an opening into each of the plurality of chambers, and a platen within a first chamber of the plurality of chambers, the platen configured to receive material from the print head to print the 3D part. The at least one print head is configured to be moved between each of the plurality of partitioned chambers by raising the print head in the direction substantially normal to the plane such that the extrusion nozzle is above the upper edge of the plurality of chambers, moving the print head in the plane from a first location above the first chamber of the plurality of partitioned chambers to a second location above a second chamber of the plurality of partitioned chambers and lowering the at least one print head into the second chamber.
A method for calibrating a 3D printer includes the steps of providing information obtained in a factory calibration indicating a center of an inner diameter of a tip orifice in a metal extrusion nozzle and a center of a tip surface for the nozzle and inductively sensing the nozzle with an eddy current sensor when secured to a print head on a gantry or robotic arm of the 3D printer to identify a sensed location of the center of the tip surface of the nozzle. The method includes determining a location of the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice on the nozzle on the print head and utilizing the provided information to locate the center of the inner diameter of the tip orifice.
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
G01B 7/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
G01B 11/12 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring diameters internal diameters
G01B 11/27 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes
A feedstock configured for use in an extruder in an additive manufacturing system is configured as a braided comingled tow filament. A method of producing the braided comingled tow filament includes providing a bundle of comingled tow material having a fiber count ranging from about 1,000 fibers to about 25,000 fibers having thermoplastic fibers comingled therewith, wherein the tow material in the filament ranges from about 50 to 75 volume percent and the volume percent of the thermoplastic material ranges from about 25 volume percent to about 50 volume percent. The method includes dividing the length of comingled tow material into sections, twisting each section into a strand to form a plurality of strands of twisted tow material, and braiding together the strands.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/307 - Handling of material to be used in additive manufacturing
A photo-curable composition can include a photo-curable resin and a photoinitiator. The photo-curable composition can typically have a shear viscosity of less than 1 Pa·s at 100 °C at a shear rate of 50 s-1 and can typically include a first prepolymer, a second prepolymer, and a reactive diluent.
A method of additive manufacturing comprises operating an additive manufacturing system for fabricating a multiplicity of objects, while acquiring a set of images during fabrication of each of the objects. For each object, a respective set of images is analyzed to identify fabrication irregularities, and a fabrication score is generated based on the irregularities. The multiplicity of objects is clustered according to the fabrication scores into at least two clusters.
B07C 5/342 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
69.
METHOD OF ANALYZING AND UTILIZING SURFACE TOPOGRAPHY FOR TARGETED LOCAL THERMAL MANAGEMENT IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS
A method for 3D printing a part with an additive manufacturing system includes printing a first portion (302)(308) of a part (342) in a layerwise manner and analyzing a topology (344) of the first portion (302)(308) of the part. The method includes determining a tool path for printing a second portion (306) of the part on a surface of the first portion (302) of the part (346), and pre-heating the first portion (302)(308) of the part along the tool path as a function of the topological analysis of the first portion of the part (348). The method includes printing the second portion (306) of the part along the tool path (350).
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/194 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control during lay-up
A low pull force system for feeding a filament along a feed path from a source to a liquefier in a 3D printer includes a low compressive force loading drive for advancing filament from the source, a feed drive for advancing filament into the liquefier, and an in-line accumulator comprising a telescoping joint positioned in the feed path between the loading drive and the feed drive. When the telescoping joint is in a contracted position, the loading drive activates to feed filament into the feed path at a rate faster than a rate at which the feed drive advances filament into the liquefier, causing the telescoping joint to expand and accrue a slack of filament in the feed path. When the telescoping joint reaches an extended position, the loading drive deactivates while the feed drive continues to advance filament into the liquefier, and the slack of filament is consumed.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
Thermoset compositions and methods for forming three-dimensional articles via an additive fabrication process, and articles made therefrom are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a composition comprises a first network-forming component comprising a first oligomer comprising a backbone and having at least 2 polymerizable groups, one or more first network monomers, and a first network initiator. The backbone of the first oligomer comprises a polyepoxide based on Bisphenol A, F, or S, a polyepoxide based on hydrogenated Bisphenol A, F, or S, a polycarbonate, or a polyimide. The composition may further comprise a second network-forming component.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing
C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds
C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
G03F 7/038 - Macromolecular compounds which are rendered insoluble or differentially wettable
73.
Thermosetting compositions and forming three-dimensionalobjects therefrom
Thermoset compositions and methods for forming three-dimensional articles via an additive fabrication process, and articles made therefrom are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a composition comprises a first network-forming component comprising a TPA-based polyester comprising a backbone and having at least 2 polymerizable groups, one or more first network monomers, and a first network initiator. The backbone of the TPA-based polyester comprises the reaction product of a terephthalic acid and a polyol. The composition may further comprise a second network-forming component.
C09D 11/10 - Printing inks based on artificial resins
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing
C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds
C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
G03F 7/038 - Macromolecular compounds which are rendered insoluble or differentially wettable
74.
Method for regulating temperature at a resin interface in an additive manufacturing process
A method for additive manufacturing includes: at a build tray arranged over a build window and containing a resin reservoir of a resin, heating the resin reservoir toward a target bulk resin temperature less than a heat deflection temperature of the resin in a photocured state; at a resin interface between a surface of the build window and the resin reservoir, heating an interface layer of the resin reservoir toward a target reaction temperature; and, in response to the resin reservoir exhibiting a first temperature proximal the target bulk resin temperature and to the interface layer exhibiting a second temperature proximal the target reaction temperature: at the resin interface, selectively photocuring a first volume of the resin to form a first layer of a build adhered to a build platform; and retracting the build platform away from the build window.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/255 - Enclosures for the building material, e.g. powder containers
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
75.
System for window separation in an additive manufacturing process
An additive manufacturing system including a base assembly and a tray assembly. The base assembly includes a build window, substantially transparent to electromagnetic radiation; a projection system configured to project electromagnetic radiation toward an upper surface of the build window; and a tray seat arranged around a perimeter of the build window. The tray assembly is configured to engage with the base assembly in an engaged configuration and includes: a tray structure defining a registration feature configured to engage the tray seat to locate an aperture proximal to the upper surface of the build window in the engaged configuration; and a separation membrane that is configured to laminate across the upper surface of the build window in response to an evacuation of gas from an interstitial region and configured to separate from the build window in response to injection of gas into the interstitial region.
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
A multiple axis robotic additive manufacturing system includes a robotic arm movable in six degrees of freedom. The system includes a build platform movable in at least two degrees of freedom and independent of the movement of the robotic arm to position the part being built to counteract effects of gravity based upon part geometry. The system includes an extruder mounted at an end of the robotic arm. The extruder is configured to extrude at least part material with a plurality of flow rates, wherein movement of the robotic arm and the build platform are synchronized with the flow rate of the extruded material to build the 3D part.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B25J 9/04 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by movement of the arms, e.g. cartesian co-ordinate type by rotating at least one arm, excluding the head movement itself, e.g. cylindrical co-ordinate type or polar co-ordinate type
B29C 64/106 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material
A 3D printer includes a gantry configured to move in a plane substantially parallel to a x-y build plane and a print head configured to extrude molten material to print a 3D part in a layer-by-layer process. The 3D printer includes a platen configured to support the part being printed in the layer by layer process and positionable with a primary Z positioner along a z-axis substantially normal to the x-y build plane. The 3D printer includes a local Z positioner moved by the gantry, the local Z positioner comprising a linear motor configured to move the print head in the z-direction and having an operable range of motion extending from a nominal build position at which a nozzle of the print head is positioned in the x-y build plane to a raised position above the x-y build plane.
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
A 3D printer (10) includes a heated build chamber (16), a build platen (30) positioned within the heated build chamber (16), and a primary z-axis positioner (32) configured to move the build platen (30) in a z-direction within the heated build chamber (16). The 3D printer (10) also includes a tool chamber (18) positioned above the build chamber (16) and having an unheated, cooled, or room temperature environment. A thermal insulator (20) separates the build chamber (16) and the tool chamber (18). A print head carriage (26) of the 3D printer (10) is configured to engage one of the plurality of print heads and/or print head tools (24) stored in a tool rack (22) positioned within the tool chamber (18). The 3D printer (10) also includes a local Z positioner (72) configured to move the carriage (26) from a tool engagement z-height within the tool chamber (18), to a position where the engaged print head or print head tool (24) extends from the tool chamber (18) through the insulator (20) into the build chamber (16).
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
A method for generating print images for additive manufacturing includes: accessing a part model; accessing a set of dimensional tolerances for the part model; and segmenting the part model into a set of model layers. The method also includes, and, for each model layer: detecting an edge in the model layer; assigning a dimensional tolerance to the edge; defining an outer exposure shell inset from the edge by an erosion distance inversely proportional to a width of the dimensional tolerance; defining an inner exposure shell inset from the outer exposure shell and scheduled for exposure separately from the outer exposure shell; defining an a outer exposure energy proportional to the width of the dimensional tolerance and assigned to the outer exposure shell; and defining an inner exposure energy greater than the outer exposure energy and assigned to the inner exposure shell.
A method for generating print images for additive manufacturing includes: accessing a part model; accessing a set of dimensional tolerances for the part model; and segmenting the part model into a set of model layers. The method also includes, and, for each model layer: detecting an edge in the model layer; assigning a dimensional tolerance to the edge; defining an outer exposure shell inset from the edge by an erosion distance inversely proportional to a width of the dimensional tolerance; defining an inner exposure shell inset from the outer exposure shell and scheduled for exposure separately from the outer exposure shell; defining an a outer exposure energy proportional to the width of the dimensional tolerance and assigned to the outer exposure shell; and defining an inner exposure energy greater than the outer exposure energy and assigned to the inner exposure shell.
G05B 19/4093 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by part programming, e.g. entry of geometrical information as taken from a technical drawing, combining this with machining and material information to obtain control information, named part programme, for the NC machine
G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
81.
Additive manufacturing process using a building material having a high hard segment content
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29C 64/165 - Processes of additive manufacturing using a combination of solid and fluid materials, e.g. a powder selectively bound by a liquid binder, catalyst, inhibitor or energy absorber
Provided is a photopolymerizable composition comprising a blend of: a) from 40 wt. % to 70 wt. % of at least one urethane component; b) from 25 wt. % to 70 wt % of at least one monofunctional reactive diluent; c) from 0.1 wt. % to 5 wt. % of at least one initiator; and d) from 2 wt. % to 10 wt % of an amine-functional (meth)acrylate monomer. Also provided is a process of producing a photopolymerizable composition by blending these ingredients. Further provided is a process of producing a three-dimensional object, by depositing the photopolymerizable composition atop a carrier; depositing additional photopolymerizable composition atop a previously applied layer wherein the depositing of the photopolymerizable composition comprises introducing energy.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
C08F 283/00 - Macromolecular compounds obtained by polymerising monomers on to polymers provided for in subclass
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
The invention relates to a method for modifying an object comprising the step of: I) providing an object which is made at least partially of a construction material comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane. The method also comprises the following steps: II) contacting, at least in part, the construction material, for a first predetermined period of time, with a first liquid comprising ≥80% by weight, based on the total weight of the first liquid, of a polar aprotic solvent; III) contacting, for a second predetermined period of time, the areas of the construction material that were in contact with the liquid in step II) with a second liquid comprising ≥80% by weight, based on the total weight of the second liquid, of a polar protic solvent. Preferably, the first liquid is DMSO or acetone and the second liquid is water.
B29C 64/165 - Processes of additive manufacturing using a combination of solid and fluid materials, e.g. a powder selectively bound by a liquid binder, catalyst, inhibitor or energy absorber
B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
The present invention relates to a fire, smoke and toxicity retardant (FST) polyamide thermoplastic mass usable for 3D printing which comprises at least one non-halogenated organic flame retardant in combination with at least one particulate inorganic flame retardant. Moreover, the present invention refers to uses of such FST polyamide thermoplastic mass for 3D printing. The invention further relates to methods of preparing a three-dimensionally shaped product by means of 3D printing based on such FST polyamide thermoplastic mass.
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
85.
Method for underwater processing of water-dispersible materials
A method of processing a water-dispersible, polymer-based material in a bath of a water-based solution includes providing a molten water-dispersible polymer material having monovalent cations. The water-dispersible polymer is introduced into a water bath comprising multivalent salt dissociated in the water bath into multivalent cations and anions. The water-dispersible polymer is retained within the water bath with the dissociated multivalent cations to quench the water-dispersible, polymer-based material while the monovalent cations proximate a surface of the water-dispersible polymer are exchanged with multivalent cations to form a barrier that temporarily resists dispersion of the water-dispersible, polymer-based material within the water bath. The method includes removing the water-dispersible polymer from water bath after the exchange step.
B29C 48/80 - Thermal treatment of the extrusion moulding material or of preformed parts or layers, e.g. by heating or cooling at the plasticising zone, e.g. by heating cylinders
B29C 48/88 - Thermal treatment of the stream of extruded material, e.g. cooling
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B29C 71/00 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shapeApparatus therefor
B29K 81/00 - Use of polymers having sulfur, with or without nitrogen, oxygen or carbon only, in the main chain, as moulding material
C08J 3/07 - Making solutions, dispersions, lattices or gels by other methods than by solution, emulsion or suspension polymerisation techniques in aqueous media from polymer solutions
The present disclosure is directed to pulverulent thermoplastic polymer blends comminuted to a particle size of less than 300 μm. The pulverulent thermoplastic polymer blends can include a first thermoplastic polyurethane and a second thermoplastic polyurethane at a weight ratio of from about 90:10 to about 30:70 first thermoplastic polyurethane to second thermoplastic polyurethane. The first thermoplastic polyurethane can include a reaction product of a first reaction mixture consisting of or consisting essentially of an aliphatic diisocyanate having a number average molecular weight of from 140 g/mol to 170 g/mol and an aliphatic diol having a number average molecular weight of from 62 g/mol to 120 g/mol. The second thermoplastic polyurethane can include a reaction product of a second reaction mixture comprising a polyisocyanate, an isocyanate-reactive component having a number average molecular weight of from 500 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol, and a chain extender having a number average molecular weight of from 60 g/mol to 450 g/mol.
A build chamber for a 3D printer includes a heated build space in an interior of the build chamber and a thermal isolator configured to insulate 3D printer components from the heated build space. The thermal isolator includes a first baffle section and a second baffle section. Each of the first baffle section and the second baffle section includes an accordion-pleated panel having a length, a width, a first end and a second end, wherein the panel comprises a parallel alternating top folds and bottom folds along the width forming a series of pleats, and each pleat within the series being configured to expand and contract, and wherein the panel is constructed of a heat-resistant material. Each baffle section also includes support rods affixed to the accordion-pleated panel in parallel to the pleats and at intervals along the length of the panel, the support rods substantially spanning the width of the panel. Ends of the support rods rest on surfaces proximate a ceiling of the build chamber to support the first and second baffle sections wherein the support rods are configured to provide sufficient strength and rigidity to the panel to substantially prevent the panel from sagging or buckling as the panel is expanded and contracted along its length.
A 3D printer includes a holding area holding material to be used to produce a part and at least one component for producing the part through layer-wise additive manufacturing. A data storage device in the 3D printer stores instructions for generating build parameter values, the instructions including empirically derived data, relationships, and/or equations. A processor in the 3D printer receives values for a public build parameter set and a category for the material wherein the category represents multiple different materials. The processor executes instructions to determine values for a private build parameter set that vary based on the properties of the material. The values for the private build parameter set are determined from the received values for the public build parameter set and the received category. The processor then uses the received values for the public build parameter set and the values for the private build parameter set to build the part.
G05B 19/4093 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by part programming, e.g. entry of geometrical information as taken from a technical drawing, combining this with machining and material information to obtain control information, named part programme, for the NC machine
B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
89.
Liquid, hybrid UV/vis radiation curable resin compositions for additive fabrication
Liquid radiation curable compositions are disclosed which are suitable for hybrid (i.e. cationic and free-radical) polymerization when processed via additive fabrication equipment utilizing sources of actinic radiation with peak spectral intensities in the UV/vis region. According to one aspect, the compositions possess a first photoinitiator that is an iodonium salt of a non-fluorinated borate anion. According to another aspect, the composition is substantially devoid of a Norrish Type I and/or Type II photoinitiator. Also disclosed are methods of creating three-dimensional parts via additive fabrication processes utilizing sources of actinic radiation with peak spectral intensities in the UV/vis region employing liquid radiation curable compositions suitable for hybrid polymerization, and the parts cured therefrom.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
Radiation curable compositions for additive fabrication are described and claimed. Such compositions are particularly suited for investment casting applications, and include a cationically polymerizable component, a radically polymerizable component, a certain type of prescribed antimony-free, sulfonium salt-based cationic photoinitiator, and a free-radical photoinitiator. In other embodiments, the composition may also include a photosensitizer and/or a UV/absorber. Also described and claimed is a method for using a liquid radiation curable resin for additive fabrication with a certain type of prescribed antimony-free, sulfonium salt-based cationic photoinitiator and a certain type of prescribed photosensitizer in an investment casting process.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
C08G 59/68 - Macromolecules obtained by polymerising compounds containing more than one epoxy group per molecule using curing agents or catalysts which react with the epoxy groups characterised by the catalysts used
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
Disclosed herein are expanding spinal fusion cage embodiments including an expandable cage assembly configured to expand from a collapsed state to an expanded state in an intervertebral space when inflated with a material. The assembly can include an inflatable section defining an interior volume configured to receive the material and expand the interior volume in response to a pressure from the received material to cause the expandable cage assembly to transition from the collapsed state to the expanded state, and a stabilization section configured to restrain the inflatable section during inflation.
Disclosed herein are expanding spinal fusion cage embodiments including an expandable cage assembly configured to expand from a collapsed state to an expanded state in an intervertebral space when inflated with a material. The assembly can include an inflatable section defining an interior volume configured to receive the material and expand the interior volume in response to a pressure from the received material to cause the expandable cage assembly to transition from the collapsed state to the expanded state, and a stabilization section configured to restrain the inflatable section during inflation.
A61F 2/44 - Joints for the spine, e.g. vertebrae, spinal discs
B29C 64/106 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
An extruder or other similar tool head of a three-dimensional printer is slidably mounted along a feedpath of build material so that the extruder can move into and out of contact with a build surface according to whether build material is being extruded. The extruder may be spring-biased against the forward feedpath so that the extruder remains above the build surface in the absence of applied forces, and then moves downward into a position for extrusion when build material is fed into the extruder. In another aspect, modular tool heads are disclosed that can be automatically coupled to and removed from the three-dimensional printer by a suitable robotics system. A tool crib may be provided to store multiple tool heads while not in use.
B29C 67/00 - Shaping techniques not covered by groups , or
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 48/02 - Small extruding apparatus, e.g. handheld, toy or laboratory extruders
B29C 48/25 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B29C 48/80 - Thermal treatment of the extrusion moulding material or of preformed parts or layers, e.g. by heating or cooling at the plasticising zone, e.g. by heating cylinders
B29C 48/285 - Feeding the extrusion material to the extruder
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
A z-lift and leveling assembly for leveling a platen in a heated chamber of a 3D printer includes first, second, third, and fourth z-actuators in a rectangular configuration. Each z-actuator includes a linear drive configured to supply motion in the z-direction and a mounting bracket secured to the linear drive and configured to move with the linear drive in the z-direction. The assembly includes a set of four pin couplings each associated with one of the first, second, third and fourth z-actuators. Each pin coupling includes a pivot block secured to the mounting bracket with a first pivot pin forming a first pin joint between the mounting bracket and the pivot block, where the pivot block is configured to move relative to the mounting bracket about a first pivot axis of the first pivot pin. The pivot block is secured to the platen or an arm of the platen with a second pivot pin forming a second pin joint such that the pivot block and the platen move relative to each other about a second pivot axis. As the mounting bracket is moved, the pivot block moves relative to the mounting bracket about the first pivot axis and the pivot block moves relative to the platen about the second pivot axis such that a z-position of the platen can be manipulated to and maintained in a substantially level configuration in the z-direction though the independent manipulation of the first, second, third and fourth z-actuators and wherein the substantially level configuration can be maintained when the platen is incremented in the z-direction during printing of a part.
Matrix-filled liquid radiation curable resin compositions for additive fabrication are described and claimed. Such resins include a cationically polymerizable component that is an aliphatic epoxide, a multifunctional (meth)acrylate component, a cationic photoinitiator, a free-radical photoinitiator, and a matrix of inorganic fillers, wherein the matrix further constitutes prescribed ratios of at least one microparticle constituent and at least one nanoparticle constituent. Also described and claimed is a process for using the matrix-filled liquid radiation curable resins for additive fabrication to create three dimensional parts, and the three-dimensional parts made from the liquid radiation curable resins for additive fabrication.
C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
G03F 7/00 - Photomechanical, e.g. photolithographic, production of textured or patterned surfaces, e.g. printed surfacesMaterials therefor, e.g. comprising photoresistsApparatus specially adapted therefor
G03F 7/038 - Macromolecular compounds which are rendered insoluble or differentially wettable
G03F 7/027 - Non-macromolecular photopolymerisable compounds having carbon-to-carbon double bonds, e.g. ethylenic compounds
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
C08L 33/10 - Homopolymers or copolymers of methacrylic acid esters
A method for printing a 3D part in a layer-wise manner includes providing a pool of polymerizable liquid in a vessel over a build window and positioning a downward-facing build platform in the pool, thereby defining a build region above the build window. The method includes selectively curing a volume of polymerizable liquid in the build region by imparting electromagnetic radiation through the build window to form a printed layer of the part adhered to the build platform and actively cooling the build window to remove energy imparted by the electromagnetic radiation and the polymerization reaction of the polymerizable liquid such that the printed layer is between about 1° C. and about 30° C. below an average part temperature prior to raising the print layer and printing the next layer.
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29C 64/20 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
A method for 3D printing a part in a layer-wise manner includes providing a pool of polymerizable liquid in a vessel over a build window and positioning a downward-facing build platform in the pool, thereby defining a build region above the build window. The method includes selectively curing a volume of polymerizable liquid in the build region by imparting electromagnetic radiation through the build window to form a printed layer of the part adhered to the build platform and scanning at least a portion of the build window with monochromatic, polarized light along a plane of incidence. The method includes measuring a change in intensity and polarity of the light to obtain information about the printed layer. The method includes raising the build platform to a height of a next layer to be printed and modifying the electromagnetic energy imparted into the next layer based upon the obtained information to print a next layer. The imparting, scanning, measuring, raising and modifying steps are repeated until the part is printed.
B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
Radiation curable compositions for additive fabrication with improved toughness are described and claimed. Such resins include a rubber toughenable base resin package and a liquid, phase-separating toughening agent. The rubber toughenable base resin, which may possess a suitably high average molecular weight between crosslinks and may be a pre-reacted hydrophobic macromolecule, may further include a cationically polymerizable component, a radically polymerizable component, a cationic photoinitiator, a free radical photoinitiator, and customary additives. Also described and claimed are methods for forming a three-dimensional objects using such radiation curable compositions for additive fabrication with improved toughness, along with the three-dimensional parts created therefrom.
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
G03F 7/027 - Non-macromolecular photopolymerisable compounds having carbon-to-carbon double bonds, e.g. ethylenic compounds
G03F 7/105 - Photosensitive materials characterised by structural details, e.g. supports, auxiliary layers having substances, e.g. indicators, for forming visible images
G03F 7/038 - Macromolecular compounds which are rendered insoluble or differentially wettable
G03F 7/00 - Photomechanical, e.g. photolithographic, production of textured or patterned surfaces, e.g. printed surfacesMaterials therefor, e.g. comprising photoresistsApparatus specially adapted therefor
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/277 - Arrangements for irradiation using multiple radiation means, e.g. micromirrors or multiple light-emitting diodes [LED]
B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using laser beamsArrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
C08L 63/00 - Compositions of epoxy resinsCompositions of derivatives of epoxy resins
A method for additive manufacturing includes: at a build tray arranged over a build window and containing a resin reservoir of a resin, heating the resin reservoir toward a target bulk resin temperature less than a heat deflection temperature of the resin in a photocured state; at a resin interface between a surface of the build window and the resin reservoir, heating an interface layer of the resin reservoir toward a target reaction temperature; and, in response to the resin reservoir exhibiting a first temperature proximal the target bulk resin temperature and to the interface layer exhibiting a second temperature proximal the target reaction temperature: at the resin interface, selectively photocuring a first volume of the resin to form a first layer of a build adhered to a build platform; and retracting the build platform away from the build window.
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B29C 64/255 - Enclosures for the building material, e.g. powder containers
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
