A method of determining any offset between: a scale axis of a disc scale member having a planar surface on which is provided a series of scale features defining a scale that extends and is centred around the scale axis, the scale axis extending normal to the planar surface; and the axis of rotation of a machine part on which the disc scale member is mounted, wherein the axis of rotation and the scale axis of the disc scale member are substantially parallel. The method includes: determining any offset between the scale axis and the axis of rotation via inspection of an axially-extending surface provided with the disc scale member.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A method of mounting rotary scale member on machine part includes: locating rotary scale member on machine part such that scale axis and axis of rotation are substantially parallel, and subsequently arranging at least a first radial adjustment device to contact both machine part and rotary scale member, and manipulating the at least first radial adjustment device to radially displace body of rotary scale member. At least the majority of any radial reaction force, generated as a result of the interaction of at least one of the flexures with a radial stop member against which it is radially pressed, and which is imparted on the at least first radial adjustment device by rotary scale member in opposition to the radial displacement of the rotary scale member, is directed into, and reacted by, the machine part via the contact between the at least first radial adjustment device and the machine part.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A selective solidification apparatus includes a build chamber, a build platform lowerable in the build chamber, a wiper for spreading powder material across the build platform to form successive powder layers of a powder bed, an energy beam unit for generating an energy beam for consolidating the powder material, a scanner for directing and focussing the energy beam onto each powder layer and a processor for controlling the scanner. The processor is arranged to control the scanner to scan the energy beam across the powder bed to consolidate powder material either side of the wiper when the wiper is moving across the powder bed and to scan the energy beam across at least one of the powder layers during two or more strokes of the wiper across the powder bed.
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
B22F 10/00 - Additive manufacturing of workpieces or articles from metallic powder
B22F 10/28 - Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
B22F 10/366 - Scanning parameters, e.g. hatch distance or scanning strategy
A readhead (4) is described that can read an encoder scale (6;50) having a series of scale markings (10; 52) arranged in a generally periodic pattern and embedded scale features (10) that encode absolute position information. The readhead (4) includes an image sensor (20) for capturing a snapshot image of a portion of the encoder scale and a position analyser (24) for determining a position (P) of the readhead (4) relative to the encoder scale (6;50) from the captured snapshot image. An absolute position extractor (92) extracts absolute position information (A) from the embedded scale features present in the snapshot image. An incremental position extractor (94) generates a global phase value (Φ) describing incremental position by analysis of the generally periodic pattern of scale markings (10;52) present in the snapshot image. The incremental position extractor (94) is configured to apply an error correction when calculating the global phase value (Φ) to account for variations in the contribution to the calculated global phase value (Φ) from different sensor elements of the image sensor (20). Encoder apparatus comprising a combination of the readhead (4) and the associated encoder scale (6;50) is also described.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/245 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains using a variable number of pulses in a train
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A method of aligning the positioning of laser beams in a laser powder bed fusion apparatus. The laser powder bed fusion apparatus comprises a plurality of scanners (106a, 106b, 106c, 106d), each scanner for directing a corresponding laser beam (118a, 118b, 118c, 118d) to different positions on a powder bed (104), an isotropic position sensitive detector (123a, 123b, 123c, 123d) arranged to detect electromagnetic radiation (160) arising from interaction of the laser beams with the powder bed and a movable optical component (121a, 121b, 121c, 121d) for moving a field of view (150c) of the isotropic position sensitive detector to different positions on the powder bed (104). The method comprises positioning the movable optical component (121a, 121b, 121c, 121d) and/or a first scanner of the plurality of scanners (106a, 106b, 106c, 106d) such that a first point irradiated by a first laser beam of the first scanner is within the field of view (150c) of the isotropic position sensitive detector (123a, 123b, 123c, 123d) and recording a first position of an image on the isotropic position sensitive detector (123a, 123b, 123c, 123d) generated during irradiation of the first point by the first laser beam. The method further comprises positioning the movable optical component (121a, 121b, 121c, 121d) and/or a second scanner of the plurality of scanners (106a, 106b, 106c, 106d) such that a second point irradiated by a second laser beam of the second scanner is within the field of view (150c) of the isotropic position sensitive detector (123a, 123b, 123c, 123d) and recording a second position of an image on the isotropic position sensitive detector (123a, 123b, 123c, 123d) generated during irradiation of the second point by the second laser beam. The method further comprises determining an adjustment to be made to positioning of at least one of the plurality of scanners (106a, 106b, 106c, 106d) based on the first and second positions compared to an expected positioning.
An apparatus comprising first and second relatively reorientable members and an indexer arrangement which is configured to provide a plurality of angularly indexed lockable positions of the first and second members about a first axis. The indexer arrangement comprises: i) a series of features provided on the first member, said series of features extending annularly around the first axis; and ii) at at least three discrete annularly-spaced locations on the second member, an engagement feature is provided which is configured to intermesh with a subset of said features on the first member when in the locked state thereby providing, at each indexed position, a stable, repeatable relative rest position of the first and second members. The apparatus further comprises at least a first non-contact sensor mounted to the second member, the non-contact sensor being configured to sense a region on the first member and thereby provide a signal dependent on the spatial configuration of the first and second members when in their locked state.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A scale arrangement for a measurement encoder, the scale arrangement comprising a scale (202) and a thermal displacement relief structure (212). The thermal displacement relief structure (212) comprising an intermediate member (206) and a first thermal displacement relief layer (204) for attaching the scale (202) to the intermediate member (206). The coefficients of thermal expansion of the intermediate member (206) and the scale (202) conform to the following: -3 × 10-6K-1≤ CTE(intermediate member) − CTE(scale) ≤ 6 × 10-6K-1.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
8.
LASER POWDER BED FUSION ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS
A laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method including performing laser melting of layers of a powder bed of steel powder in a protective atmosphere including nitrogen, wherein a temperature of the powder bed is below 220° C. A composition of the steel powder may include, by weight: 3% to 7% Cr, 2-5% Mo, 0.2% to 0.7% V, max 0.7% Si, max 1% Mn, max 1.5% C, and a balance of Fe.
A method produces a workpiece including molybdenum, or tungsten, or chromium, or molybdenum alloy, or tungsten alloy, or chromium alloy by selective consolidation of successive layers of powder by an energy beam. The method includes performing the selective consolidation of the powder layer in a protective atmosphere including nitrogen.
A method of determining an offset of a feature (16) associated with a tool (10) is described, where the offset is defined relative to a first part (3) of a machine (1) to which the tool (10) is coupled. The method is characterised by determining the offset from: (a) values for the position and orientation of the first part (3) relative to a second part (2) of the machine (1) for each of a plurality of sensed states in each of which the feature (16) is in a sensed position; and (b) information relating to where the sensed positions are relative to one another. A particularly beneficial example is disclosed in which the method is used to determine the tool centre point (16) of a measurement probe (10) supported on a robot arm (1) using an artefact (20) placed in the working volume of the robot arm (1).
A method is disclosed of recovering a master calibration state of a coordinate positioning machine (1) having a first member (3) that is moveable relative to a second member (2), wherein the geometry of the machine (1) is characterised by a set of model parameters. The machine (1) is controlled to make point contact between multiple reference surfaces (22, 24) of a tool (20) mounted on the first member (3) and multiple reference surfaces (14, 16) of an artefact (10) mounted on the second member (2). The separations between these contacting surfaces (14, 16; 22, 24) that would be expected from the current model parameters are determined, and these separations are recorded as a set of master separations. The contacting step is subsequently performed again in respect of at least some of the contacts for which master separations were recorded. At least one of the model parameters is updated to provide a closer correspondence between the expected separations and the master separations.
G01B 5/004 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A method is disclosed of calibrating a coordinate positioning machine (1) having a first member (3) that is moveable relative to a second member (2), wherein the geometry of the machine (1) is characterised by a set of model parameters. The machine (1) is controlled to make point contact between multiple reference surfaces (23, 25) of a tool or artefact (20) mounted on the first member (3) and multiple reference surfaces (15, 17) of an artefact (10) mounted on the second member (2). At least one of the model parameters is updated knowing or taking into account that the actual separations between the relevant surfaces (15, 17; 23, 10 25) are zero when making contact, even if the expected separations between the relevant surfaces (15, 17; 23, 25) as derived from the current model parameters are non-zero.
G01B 5/004 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A method of mounting a rotary scale member on a part, the rotary scale member including a body on which a series of position features defining a scale is provided, and at least one mounting flexure configured to engage the part, the method including: force-fitting the rotary scale member and the part together, whereby the at least one flexure is displaced by the part and thereby urged via a radial reaction force into engagement with the part so as to form a friction fit with the part such that the body of the rotary scale member self-locates at an initial default radial location with respect to the part; and tweaking the radial location of the body relative to the part away from its initial default radial location to a new radial location.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
An optical distance measurement or ranging apparatus, the apparatus including at least one optical pulse generator for generating a train of gating pulses and a train of probe pulses, the train of gating pulses having a different repetition rate than the train of probe pulses. The gating and probe pulses may be ultrashort laser pulses generated by different free-running, mode-locked lasers. An optical probing arrangement for directing the train of probe pulses to one or more objects and for collecting returned probe pulses returned from the one or more objects. The objects may include a target object and a reference object. The apparatus includes a multi-photon effect detector and is configured to direct both the train of gating pulses and the returned probe pulses to the multi-photon effect detector. The apparatus may be used for industrial inspection, machine calibration, position measurement or the like.
A powder bed fusion apparatus for building an object, including a processing chamber having a processing chamber aperture, scanner arranged to direct an energy beam to locations in a plane of the aperture and debuilding chamber having a debuilding chamber aperture. The apparatus includes a build chamber including a build sleeve and platform movable therein for supporting powder, the platform including a seal for engaging with the sleeve walls to prevent flow of powder past the platform; and at least one drive mechanism for driving movement of the platform. A translation mechanism moves the chamber between a building position, wherein the sleeve aligns with the processing aperture so an energy beam can be delivered to consolidate powder to build the object, and debuilding position, wherein the sleeve aligns with the debuilding aperture so the object and powder can be inserted into the debuilding chamber through movement of the platform.
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturing; Auxiliary means for additive manufacturing; Combinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
B22F 10/32 - Process control of the atmosphere, e.g. composition or pressure in a building chamber
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
An ultrasound measurement device for an industrial measurement apparatus is described. The device includes a base (20) comprising an ultrasound transducer driver (29) and an elongate stem (22) comprising an ultrasound transducer (33). A connector assembly releasably attaches the elongate stem (22) to the base (20). The connector assembly has a first connector portion (28) provided on the base (20) and a second connector portion (36) provided at a proximal end of the elongate stem (22). The first and second connector portions (28,36), when connected, provide mechanical alignment of the elongate stem (22) relative to the base (20) and an electrical connection between the ultrasound transducer (33) and the ultrasound transducer driver (29). The connector assembly also includes a co- axial electrical connector (44, 46) that provides the electrical connection between the ultrasound transducer (33) and the ultrasound transducer driver (29) and also allows the elongate stem (22) to be secured to the base (20) in any rotational orientation about the longitudinal axis (50) of the elongate stem (22). In this manner, a compact arrangement can be provided in which the elongate stem (22) can be easily attached and detached from the base (20).
G01B 17/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic vibrations for measuring thickness
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
A method of determining instructions to be executed by a powder bed fusion apparatus, in which an object is built in a layer-by-layer manner by selectively irradiating regions of successively formed powder layers with an energy beam. The method includes determining an exposure parameter for each location within a layer to be irradiated with the energy beam from a primary exposure parameter, the exposure parameters varying with location. An amount each exposure parameter varies from the primary exposure parameter is determined, at least in part, from a geometric quantity of the object derived from the location of the irradiation.
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B22F 12/90 - Means for process control, e.g. cameras or sensors
B22F 12/41 - Radiation means characterised by the type, e.g. laser or electron beam
A method and an additive manufacturing apparatus comprising a device (105) for generating an energy beam (118) for consolidating a build medium (104) and a build chamber (101), the build chamber (101) comprising a build chamber window (107) through which the energy beam (118) may enter the build chamber (101) and a build area where the build medium (104) can be located to be consolidated by the energy beam (118), wherein the additive manufacturing apparatus is configured to monitor process emissions from the build area to detect damage of the build chamber window (107).
B22F 12/90 - Means for process control, e.g. cameras or sensors
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
A coordinate positioning machine includes a plurality of drive axes, each being a rotary or linear drive axis, for positioning a platform within a working volume of the machine, and a separate linear counterbalance axis for counterbalancing the platform. With this arrangement the counterbalance axis can be substantially invariant to changes in orientation of the drive axes and can be counterbalanced by a simple counterweight. Also, an arrangement wherein the counterbalance axes and force generator are arranged so horizontal movement of the platform causes substantially no net movement of and/or no work to be done on the generator. Also, an arrangement wherein a series of counterbalance axes has at least one rotary counterbalance axis, and the generator is arranged behind or at a predetermined distance from the counterbalance axis. Also, an arrangement having a series of counterbalance axes with at most one rotary counterbalance axis between the generator and ground.
G01B 5/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
20.
POWDER BED FUSION ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS AND APPARATUS
A powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method in which an object is built in a layer-by-layer manner. The method includes, for each layer of a plurality of successively fused layers, melting material of the layer by irradiating the layer with one or more energy beams a first time using a first set of irradiation parameters and allowing the melted material to solidify to define a fused region of the layer and reheating the fused region by irradiating the layer a subsequent time with one or more of energy beams using a second set of irradiation parameters. The first set of irradiation parameters includes at least one different irradiation parameter to the second set of irradiation parameters.
A method of calibrating a coordinate positioning machine is described. The machine is controlled into a pivot pose in which a target point associated with a moveable part of the machine and a pivot point associated with a fixed part of the machine are separated from one another by a known separation. An error value for that pose is determined based on the known separation and a separation expected for that pose from the existing model parameters of the machine. The machine is controlled into a plurality of different target poses, and for each target pose a separation between the target point and the pivot point is measured and an error value for that pose is determined based on the measured separation and a separation expected for that pose from the existing model parameters.
G05B 19/402 - 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 control arrangements for positioning, e.g. centring a tool relative to a hole in the workpiece, additional detection means to correct position
A method of generating scan parameters for a powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process, the method comprising receiving at least one desired property (105) of a material modified zone, the material modified zone formed by melting material and/or changing a microstructure of the material through an exposure of a powder bed to an energy beam, and determining the scan parameters (106) for the energy beam estimated by a powder bed fusion model to result in a material modified zone having a property corresponding to the at least one desired property (105). The powder bed fusion model may comprise a look-up table or function that associates the at least one property to one or more scan parameters. Generation of the look-up table or function may comprise receiving, for each of a plurality of material modified zones formed by melting material and/or changing a microstructure of the material through exposures of material to an energy beam, a measured or numerically calculated property of the material modified zone, each material modified zone generated using a different set of scan parameters; calibrating parameters of a powder bed fusion model using measured or numerically calculated properties to provide a calibrated powder bed fusion model; and generating the look-up table or function based on the calibrated powder bed fusion model. A powder bed fusion process or apparatus may be checked using a calibrated powder bed fusion model. The powder bed fusion model may include a heat conduction model that uses an equivalent volumetric heat source to model the material modified zone.
A method of mounting a rotary scale member on a part, the part being rotatable about an axis of rotation, the rotary scale member comprising a body on which a series of scale features defining a scale that extends around a scale axis is or can be provided. The method comprises: i) mount on the part one or more intermediate scale-positioning members and manipulating the radial configuration thereof until a desired radial configuration with respect to the axis of rotation is achieved; and ii) subsequently fitting the rotary scale member onto the one or more intermediate scale-positioning members, whereby the body of the rotary scale member adopts a default radial location with respect to the one or more intermediate scale-positioning members.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
24.
IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO AN OPTICAL SCANNER FOR DIRECTING ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION TO DIFFERENT LOCATIONS WITHIN A SCAN FIELD
A method and apparatus for determining an alignment of an optical scanner for directing an electromagnetic beam to locations within a scan field. The method may include locating a reference element within the scan field of the optical scanner and controlling the optical scanner to cause the electromagnetic beam to be directed to a plurality of different points in the scan field, including at least one point on the reference element. Reflected electromagnetic radiation is detected. The method may include determining when the electromagnetic beam is directed to a reference position in the scan field given by the reference element from a comparison of an intensity of the detected electromagnetic radiation for the different points and determining a corresponding demand signal that causes the optical scanner to direct the electromagnetic beam to the reference position.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Microscopes; Raman microscopes; image capturing and
developing devices; scientific research and laboratory
apparatus; spectroscopy apparatus [other than for medical
use].
26.
A METHOD FOR DETERMINING A MODE OF MELT POOL FORMATION
A monitoring method for monitoring a melting process comprising receiving sensor values captured with a sensor system measuring a property of a plasma plume generated during formation of a melt pool with an energy beam; and determining a measure of turbulence in the plasma plume from the sensor values.
An improved method is described for measuring a dimension (e.g. diameter) of a non-toothed tool, for example a grinding tool such as a diamond coated burr. The method may be implemented on a machine tool, such as a lathe, machining centre or the like. The method comprises passing a beam of light from a transmitter to a receiver. The receiver produces a received intensity signal related to the intensity of received light. Analysis of variations in the received intensity signal is performed when a rotating tool is moved relative to the light beam to enable a dimension of the tool to be measured. In particular, it may be determined when the received intensity signal has crossed a threshold for at least a defined duration, the defined duration being less than the time taken for one complete rotation of the tool.
B23Q 17/24 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools using optics
B24B 49/12 - Measuring or gauging equipment for controlling the feed movement of the grinding tool or work; Arrangements of indicating or measuring equipment, e.g. for indicating the start of the grinding operation involving optical means
G01B 11/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
An optical apparatus for use with an analytical apparatus arranged to project an analysis beam along an analytical axis towards a sample within a sample chamber. The optical apparatus may comprise a collection optic mounted on an arm, the arm insertable or inserted into the sample chamber through a port in the sample chamber. The arm may be insertable or inserted into the sample chamber to locate the collection optic for directing light scattered or generated from a point on the sample out of the sample chamber. A drive mechanism may be provided for moving the collection optic within the sample chamber in at least two transverse directions. The drive mechanism may be arranged such that, when the arm is inserted into the sample chamber to locate the collection optic for directing the light out of the sample chamber. The drive mechanism may be located external to the sample chamber. The optical apparatus may further comprise a delivery optical train for delivering illumination or excitation light from a light source to the collection optic such that the illumination or excitation light is incident on the sample.
H01J 37/02 - Discharge tubes with provision for introducing objects or material to be exposed to the discharge, e.g. for the purpose of examination or processing thereof - Details
A system for calibrating or otherwise characterising a machine (1), comprising: a launch unit (20) which is operable to launch an optical beam (22) into a working volume of the machine (1); a sensor unit (10) which is moveable by the machine (1) to a plurality of sensor unit positions along the beam (22), and which is operable, for each of the plurality of sensor unit positions, to measure a transverse beam position at a plurality of measurement positions along the beam, with a position of the sensor unit (10) relative to the beam (22) in at least three degrees of freedom being derivable from the measurements; and a processor unit which is operable to use the measurements to calibrate or otherwise characterise the machine (1).
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
In a workpiece production method a plurality of nominally similar workpieces are produced in a production process on one production machine. The order or time of production of some of the workpieces on the production machine is recorded. Some of the workpieces recorded are measured at two or more inspection stations. Dimensions or points of one workpiece are measured at one of the inspection stations, and corresponding dimensions or points of another of the workpieces are measured at another of the inspection stations. The results of the measurements of corresponding dimensions or points made at the two or more inspection stations are analysed together, taking account of the order or time of production of the workpieces. An output signal is produced based on the analysing of the results together. The output signal indicates performance of the production machine or of one or more of the inspection stations.
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A probe for use with a sample chamber, the probe comprising a probing element mounted on an arm, the arm insertable or inserted into the sample chamber to locate the probing element within the sample chamber, a drive mechanism for moving the arm, and a drive control system. Movement of the arm causes movement of the probing element within the sample chamber. The drive control system is for limiting movement of the arm to a specified range, the drive control system programmable to adjust the specified range.
An optical apparatus for use with an analytical apparatus arranged to project an analysis beam along an analytical axis towards a sample within a sample chamber. The optical apparatus may comprise at least two collection optics mounted on an arm, the arm insertable or inserted into the sample chamber through a port in the sample chamber. A sealing element may be provided for sealing the port, the sealing element comprising a window. The arm may be insertable or inserted into the sample chamber to locate the at least two collection optics for separately directing light scattered or generated from a point on the sample out of the window.
H01J 37/02 - Discharge tubes with provision for introducing objects or material to be exposed to the discharge, e.g. for the purpose of examination or processing thereof - Details
A method of inspecting at least one feature of a part having a predetermined nominal shape, including: i) loading a contact probe onto a probe mount of a coordinate positioning apparatus which facilitates exchanging of probes thereon and relative movement of the mount and a part in three orthogonal degrees of freedom, the contact probe includes a reference member for engaging the part, and a stylus relative to the reference member and having a tip for contacting the surface to be measured; ii) bringing the reference member and stylus into contact with the part on one side of the feature, and then causing the stylus to traverse collecting measurement data concerning the relative position of tip and the reference member; and iii) extracting feature dimension information from the measurement data, and comparing the extracted dimension information to nominal dimension information for the nominal shape of the feature of the part.
An ultrasound inspection probe (1) for a machine tool is described that includes a probe body and an elongate member (40;98) that extends from the probe body (60; 96) and has a datum surface (44;106) for contacting an object (34;50) to be inspected. The probe also includes an ultrasound transducer (28; 112) and an ultrasound coupling assembly (20; 110) for acoustically coupling the ultrasound transducer (28; 112) to the object (34) to be inspected. The ultrasound coupling assembly (20;110) comprises a carrier shell (24;115) containing an ultrasound coupling element (22;114) having a transducer-contacting face (26;118) coupled to the ultrasound transducer and an object-contacting face (32;116) for acoustically coupling to the object (34) to be inspected. A bearing mechanism (90,92; 113,130) movably attaches the ultrasound transducer (28;112) and the ultrasound coupling assembly (20; 110) to the elongate member (40;98) allowing movement between an extended position in which the object-contacting face (32;116) of the ultrasound coupling element (22;114) extends beyond the datum surface (44;106) and a measurement position in which the object-contacting face (32;116) of the ultrasound coupling element (22;114) is substantially flush with the datum surface (44;106). The bearing mechanism (90,92; 113,120) is configured to guide the ultrasound transducer along a linear axis of the elongate member such that the ultrasound transducer maintains a substantially invariant orientation relative to the surface normal of the datum surface (44;106).
An ultrasound inspection probe (10;80;300) is described for use with a coordinate positioning apparatus, such as a machine tool. The probe (10;80;300) includes a probe body (12;82;196;302) for mounting to a coordinate positioning apparatus and an elongate member (14;40;50;60;84;198;304) extending from the probe body. The elongate member (14;40;50;60;84;198;304) includes an ultrasound transducer assembly (44) and a datum surface (18;48;59;70;89;206) at its distal end. A movable joint (16) connects a proximal end of the elongate member (14;40;50;60;84;198;304) to the probe body (12;82;196;302) and this movable joint (16) is configured to permit both lateral and rotational movement of the proximal end of the elongate member (14;40;50;60;84;198;304) relative to the probe body (12;82;196;302) such that the elongate member (14;40;50;60;84;198;304) can rotate about its distal end to allow the datum surface (18;48;59;70;89;206) to angularly align with a surface of an object (20;104) to be inspected. In this manner, the datum surface (18;48;59;70;89;206) aligns with the surface of the object (20; 104) being inspected to optimise acoustic coupling.
G01B 17/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic vibrations for measuring thickness
B23Q 17/20 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools for indicating or measuring workpiece characteristics, e.g. contour, dimension, hardness
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Microscopes; Raman microscopes; image capturing and developing devices; scientific research and laboratory apparatus; spectroscopy apparatus [other than for medical use]
37.
METHOD OF CALIBRATING A SURFACE SENSING DEVICE, CORRESPONDING CALIBRATING PROGRAM FOR A CONTROL COMPUTER AND CORRESPONDING CALIBRATION KIT
A surface sensing device is mounted on an articulating probe head of a coordinate measuring machine. The device includes an elongate probe holder which is rotatable about an axis. An elongate sensing module includes a surface finish or surface roughness probe with a stylus tip. This is connected to the probe holder via an adjustable knuckle joint. To determine the geometry of the surface sensing device, including the tip normal and drag vector of the stylus tip, the orientations of the probe holder and the sensing module are determined by probing points which are spaced along their lengths, using a separate probe.
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method comprising exposing layers of a powder bed to an energy beam to selectively melt at least one area of each layer, wherein the energy beam is progressed along a scan path to melt material of 5 the at least one area using a pulsed exposure. Initial and/or end pulses of the pulsed exposure may have a shorter pulse duration than a pulse duration of a mid-pulse between the initial and end pulses.
A laser comprising a gain medium, a pump for pumping the gain medium, a power circuit and an inertial load located between the power circuit and the pump. The power circuit may comprise a switching power amplifier for generating a pulse-width modulated signal to the inertial load. The laser may be used in a powder bed fusion apparatus. A powder bed fusion apparatus may comprise a laser, the laser comprising a gain medium, a pump for pumping the gain medium and a controller for controlling the pump. The controller may be arranged to control the pump such that a response time of the laser is less than 17 microseconds.
A powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method comprising exposing layers of a powder bed to an energy beam to selectively melt areas of each layer, at least a proportion of the areas are melted using a pulsed exposure. The method may further comprise commanding an energy beam source to produce at least one pulse of the pulsed exposure having a pulse duration of less than 200 microseconds. The step of commanding may comprise specifying a plurality of raised power levels above a base power level for the powder waveform of the at least one pulse.
An additive manufacturing method wherein an object is formed by selectively solidifying layers of powder with at least one energy beam. The method includes forming the object from a nickel-based superalloy, wherein exposure parameters and an exposure pattern for the at least one energy beam result in the object having a directionally solidified microstructure with columnar grains aligned with a build direction, perpendicular to the layers. A composition of the nickel-based alloy by weight % may include: 9.3-9.7W, 9.0-9.5Co, 7.5-8.5Cr, 5.4-5.7Al, 3.1-3.3Ta, 1.4-1.6Hf, 0.6-0.9Ti, Mo 0.4-0.6, 007-0.015Zr, 0.01-0.02B with a carbon concentration of around 0.07-0.09 wt % and a balance of Ni.
A tool measurement apparatus for a machine tool includes a transmitter portion (100) including a light source (102) for generating a light beam (104) and a receiver portion (300) including a detector for detecting the light beam (104), the light beam being passed from the light source to the detector along an optical path. At least one of the receiver portion (300) and the transmitter portion (100) comprises a protection device including a gas expulsion aperture (108) configured to expel a bleed gas supplied from an external gas source. The optical path also passes through the gas expulsion aperture (108). The protection device further comprises a check valve (112; 200) located in the optical path. The bleed gas is supplied to the gas expulsion aperture (108) through the check valve (112; 200) and the flow of the bleed gas through the check valve (112; 200) causes the check valve to adopt an open configuration defining a passageway through which the light beam (104) can pass.
B23Q 17/24 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools using optics
B23Q 11/00 - Accessories fitted to machine tools for keeping tools or parts of the machine in good working condition or for cooling work; Safety devices specially combined with or arranged in, or specially adapted for use in connection with, machine tools
G01V 8/12 - Detecting, e.g. by using light barriers using one transmitter and one receiver
A protection member for an optical measurement device, such as a break-beam tool setting device for a machine tool. The protection member includes a conduit through which light and air can pass. The conduit is configured such that, in use, a beam of light is passed through the conduit along an optical axis and a stream of air is guided out of the conduit along an airflow axis. The optical axis is non-parallel to the airflow axis and the conduit has a varying cross-sectional profile along the airflow axis. Improved measurement repeatability is provided.
A method is described of generating a spatial map of sensor error data from a coordinate positioning machine. The method comprises: receiving measurement data collected by measuring or tracking an artefact as it is moved by the machine 5along at least one machine axis; deriving error data by comparing the received measurement data with expected or ideal values for the measurement data; andgenerating a spatial error map from the error data, with each cell comprising an error representation derived from multiple sources of error within the error data.10[Figure 9]
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
This invention concerns a module for insertion into an additive manufacturing apparatus. The module comprising a frame mountable in a fixed position in the additive manufacturing apparatus, the frame defining a build chamber and a dosing chamber. A build platform is movable in the build chamber for supporting a powder bed during additive manufacturing of a part. A dosing piston is movable in the dosing chamber to push powder from the dosing chamber. A mechanism mechanically links the build platform to the dosing piston such that downward movement of the build platform in the build chamber results in upward movement of the dosing piston in the dosing chamber.
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturing; Auxiliary means for additive manufacturing; Combinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
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
Selective laser solidification apparatus is described that includes a powder bed onto which a powder layer can be deposited and a gas flow unit for passing a flow of gas over the powder bed along a predefined gas flow direction. A laser scanning unit is provided for scanning a laser beam over the powder layer to selectively solidify at least part of the powder layer to form a required pattern. The required pattern is formed from a plurality of stripes or stripe segments that are formed by advancing the laser beam along the stripe or stripe segment in a stripe formation direction. The stripe formation direction is arranged so that it always at least partially opposes the predefined gas flow direction. A corresponding method is also described.
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 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B22F 10/28 - Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beam; Nozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
A positioning apparatus (100) comprising a support (108) extending in a first direction, and a beam (108) extending in a second direction. The beam (110) movably mounted to the support (108) so as to be movable in the first direction and exerts a load on the support. The support comprises a profile (302) which when the beam (110) exerts the load thereon the profile of the support (108) is deformed such that the beam is maintained at a substantially constant orientation for all locations of the beam (110) along the support (108).
G01B 5/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
B23Q 11/00 - Accessories fitted to machine tools for keeping tools or parts of the machine in good working condition or for cooling work; Safety devices specially combined with or arranged in, or specially adapted for use in connection with, machine tools
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 11/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
A method of determining the time delay between echoes of an ultrasound pulse emitted by an ultrasound inspection device into an object, the method comprising: i) with the ultrasound probe in engagement with a front-wall feature of the object such that the ultrasound inspection device's ultrasound axis is arranged at an angle relative to the nominal surface normal of the front-wall feature, taking an ultrasound measurement which comprises the ultrasound inspection device emitting an ultrasound pulse and recording echoes thereof; and ii) determining the time delay between echoes of the pulse via a time delay determination process which adjusts the time delay calculation based on the angle of the ultrasound inspection device's ultrasound axis with respect to the nominal surface normal of the front-wall feature.
A method of determining the time delay between echoes of an ultrasound pulse emitted by an ultrasound inspection device into an object, the method comprising: i) with the ultrasound inspection device in engagement with a front-wall feature of an object at a point to be measured, taking an ultrasound measurement, which comprises the ultrasound inspection device emitting an ultrasound pulse and recording an ultrasound measurement signal comprising a front-wall echo and at least one interface echo reflected by an internal or back-wall feature of the object; and ii) determining the time delay between the front-wall echo and the at least one interface echo via autocorrelation of at least a segment of the ultrasound measurement signal which comprises the front-wall echo and the at least one interface echo.
A method builds a workpiece using an additive manufacturing process, wherein the workpiece is built up by consolidating material in a layer-by-layer manner. The method includes receiving an initial geometric model defining surface geometry of the workpiece, determining workpiece slices to be consolidated as layers of the workpiece during the additive manufacturing process from the initial geometric model, determining adjusted positions of the workpiece slices adjusted from initial positions of the workpiece slices as determined from the initial geometric model, the determination of the adjusted positions based upon warping of the workpiece expected to occur during or after the additive manufacturing process, and building the workpiece using the additive manufacturing process, wherein the workpiece slices are formed in the adjusted positions.
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
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 method of operating a machine tool apparatus, comprising: causing a tool mounted on the machine tool apparatus to work on a workpiece, during the working of the workpiece by the tool, at least one sensor monitoring the tool, machine tool apparatus and/or workpiece, for one or more signals indicative of the condition of the tool; and using the output of the one or more sensors to automatically configure when and/or how the tool and/or workpiece is inspected by at least one inspection device, the output of which is used to determine whether or not to keep using the tool.
A measurement strut (30) is described. The measurement strut (30) is for measuring a separation between two relatively moveable support members (33) of a machine (for example, a robot arm). The strut (30) is removably couplable between the two support members (33) and is adapted to become at least partially decoupled from at least one of the support members (33) when a compressive force developed in the strut (30) by relative movement of the support members (33) is greater than a predetermined threshold. By becoming at least partially decoupled from at least one of the support members, at least some of any excess relative movement of the support members towards each other can be absorbed, thereby helping to prevent damage being caused to the strut by attempting to compress the strut beyond its minimum range of travel.
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
B23Q 17/00 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools
G05B 19/404 - 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 control arrangements for compensation, e.g. for backlash, overshoot, tool offset, tool wear, temperature, machine construction errors, load, inertia
G05B 19/401 - 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 control arrangements for measuring, e.g. calibration and initialisation, measuring workpiece for machining purposes
A scanning probe for a coordinate positioning apparatus, such as a machine tool, is described that comprises a probe body connected to a stylus holder (102) by a strain-sensing structure (100). The strain-sensing structure has an inner portion (202) connected to an outer portion (200) by a plurality of bendable members (204). A proximal end (220) of each bendable member (204) is attached to the inner portion (202) and a distal end (222) of each bendable member (204) being attached to the outer portion (200). The inner and outer portions (200,202) are centred on a central axis and the plurality of bendable members (204) comprise at least one strain-sensing element (210). The proximal and distal ends (220,222) of each bendable member (204) are located at different angles about the central axis. Such an arrangement enables both scanning and touch trigger measurements to be acquired.
A non-contact tool measurement apparatus is used in a machine tool environment. The apparatus includes a transmitter including a first aperture and a laser for generating light that is emitted from the transmitter through the first aperture towards a tool-sensing region. A receiver includes an optical detector and is arranged to receive light from the tool-sensing region. A processor analyses the light detected by the optical detector to enable the measurement of tools in the tool-sensing region. The laser is capable of generating light having a wavelength of less than 590 nm thereby enabling the size of the first aperture to be reduced resulting in a reduction in contaminant ingress. In one embodiment, the laser generates blue light.
A position measurement encoder comprising a scale and a readhead, the readhead comprising a sensor for sensing the scale, the sensor comprising a one- dimensional array of columnar pixels, configured such that the one-dimensional array of columnar pixels is divided into a plurality of rows wherein each columnar pixel has at least one individual sensing section in each row arranged to contribute to the columnar pixel's output. Each row is individually activatable so that which one or more of the individual sensing sections in the columnar pixels contribute to each columnar pixel's output can be selectively chosen and changed on a row-by-row basis.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
56.
POSITIONING APPARATUS WITH AN ASSOCIATED TRANSFER MECHANISM
An apparatus including an inspection apparatus for inspecting an artefact, and a transfer mechanism for moving a pallet on which an artefact is located relative to the inspection apparatus so as to move the pallet to and from an inspection location, and further including at least one pallet lifter which can be actuated between a retracted and an extended configuration, configured such that when a pallet is at the inspection location the at least one pallet lifter can be actuated to its extended configuration so as to engage with and lift the pallet and thereby decouple the pallet from the transfer mechanism.
A method of determining a form measurement for a curved feature of an artefact. The method includes a positioning apparatus relatively moving the artefact and a measurement device relative along a curved path in a first direction, to obtain a first set of data points along the surface of the curved feature, and the positioning apparatus relatively moving the artefact and the measurement device other along a curved path in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, to obtain a second set of data points along the surface of the curved feature. The method further includes using the first and second sets of data points to determine a form measurement for the artefact.
G01B 5/20 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures
G01B 5/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A method of monitoring an additive manufacturing apparatus. The method includes receiving one or more sensor signals from the additive manufacturing apparatus during a build of a workpiece, comparing the one or more sensor signals to a corresponding acceptable process variation of a plurality of acceptable process variations and generating a log based upon the comparisons. Each acceptable process variation of the plurality of acceptable process variations is associated with at least one state of progression of the build of the workpiece and the corresponding acceptable process variation is the acceptable process variation associated with the state of progression of the build when the one or more sensor signals are generated.
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
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
B22F 10/00 - Additive manufacturing of workpieces or articles from metallic powder
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
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 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
A coordinate positioning arm includes: a base end and a head end; a drive frame for moving the head end relative to the base end; and a metrology frame for measuring a position and orientation of the head end relative to the base end. The drive frame includes a plurality of drive axes arranged in series between the base end and the head end. The metrology frame includes a plurality of metrology axes arranged in series between the base end and the head end. The metrology frame is adapted and arranged to be substantially separate and/or independent from the drive frame, for example by supporting the metrology frame substantially only at the base end and head end and by providing the metrology frame with sufficient degrees of freedom (via the metrology axes) to avoid creating an additional constraint between the metrology frame and the drive frame.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
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
B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A rotary scale apparatus for an encoder apparatus including a planar disc on which at least one track including scale features is provided, in which the planar disc includes a hole through its centre for receiving a cylindrical shaft, and in which the rotary scale member includes at least three cantilevered spring members which are provided substantially in plane with the planar disc and spaced around the edge of the hole, for engaging with, and radially locating the disc on, a cylindrical shaft inserted therethrough.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
An encoder apparatus including a reflective scale and a readhead. The readhead includes at least one light emitting element, at least one sensor and at least one optical device, which together with the scale form an optical system in which the optical device forms an image of an illuminated region of the reflective scale onto the sensor. The system's optical path, from the light emitting element to the sensor, passes through the optical device on its way toward and after reflection from the scale. and includes an unreflected optical path between the light emitting element and the optical device and an unreflected optical path between the optical device and the sensor.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
G01B 11/04 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness specially adapted for measuring length or width of objects while moving
A method for removing noise from spectral data recorded using a spectrometer. The method comprises normalising (103) spectral data to generate normalised method and apparatus for removing noise from data spectral data and applying (104) a machine learning model to the normalised spectral data. The machine learning model is trained to remove noise from spectral data using normalised training data, wherein the spectral data is normalised based on a different scaling to the normalisation of the training data.
An additive manufacturing apparatus including a scanner for directing a laser beam on to layers of flowable material to selectively solidify the material to form an object in a layer-by-layer manner. The scanner includes an optical component operable under the control of a first actuator to reflect the laser beam over a first range of angles in a first dimension and the or a further optical component operable under the control of a second actuator to reflect the laser beam over a second range of angles in the first dimension, wherein the second actuator provides a faster dynamic response but a smaller range of movement of the laser beam than the first actuator.
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
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 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
An encoder apparatus including a readhead for reading a reflective scale located adjacent the readhead. The readhead includes a circuit board on which a sensor including one or more photodiodes for detecting light reflected from a scale located adjacent the readhead is mounted, and at least one light emitting element. The light emitting element is mounted to the circuit board via a light emitting element support structure which holds the light emitting element away from the circuit board and the sensing plane of the sensor, and at least a part of which extends over the sensor.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
65.
A MOTORISED MEASUREMENT ARM APPARATUS FOR A MACHINE TOOL
A motorised measurement arm apparatus (2) for a machine tool is described. The apparatus (2) comprises a base (4; 40) for attachment to the machine tool and an arm member (6;38) extending from the base for holding one or more sensors. The arm member (6;38) is moveable relative to the base between a stowed position (26b) and an operative position (26a), the operative position being defined by engagement of a mechanical stop arrangement (50a,50b). The apparatus also has a motor (44) for moving the arm member (6;38) relative to the base (4;10) and a motor controller (52,78) for energising the motor (44) to move the arm member (6;38) relative to the base (4;40). The motor controller (52,78) is configured to energise the motor (44) when the arm member (6;38) is in the operative position to maintain engagement of the mechanical stop arrangement (50a,50b). An operative position having improved repeatability is thus obtained.
B23Q 17/24 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools using optics
B23Q 17/09 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools for indicating or measuring cutting pressure or cutting-tool condition, e.g. cutting ability, load on tool
B23Q 17/22 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools for indicating or measuring existing or desired position of tool or work
B23Q 5/10 - Driving main working members rotary shafts, e.g. working-spindles driven essentially by electrical means
G05B 19/401 - 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 control arrangements for measuring, e.g. calibration and initialisation, measuring workpiece for machining purposes
G05B 19/402 - 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 control arrangements for positioning, e.g. centring a tool relative to a hole in the workpiece, additional detection means to correct position
66.
A MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND A MEASUREMENT INTERFACE HAVING A RADIO COMMUNICATIONS MODULE
A frequency hopping radio communications module (18, 26) used in a measurement system, such as a measurement probe (10) and measurement interface (20), is described. The module (18, 26) comprises a clock for defining a series of base time intervals and a memory for storing a hopping pattern describing a sequence of frequency channels. The communications module (18, 26) is switchable between at least a first mode, a second mode and a third mode. The first mode transmits and/or receives data using a series of frames having a first frame time and the second mode transmits and/or receives data using a series of frames having a second frame time. The first frame time is equal to, or an integer multiple of, the base time interval and the second frame time is an integer multiple of the first frame time. Operation in the third mode comprises transmitting and/or receiving data using a series of frames having a third frame time, the third frame time being an integer multiple of the second frame time. Each successive base time interval is associated with a successive frequency channel of the hopping pattern sequence and each frame uses the frequency channel associated with the base time interval that occurs at the start of that frame. In this manner, frequency hopping synchronisation is maintained even if different frame times are used.
H04B 1/7156 - Arrangements for sequence synchronisation
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
A frequency hopping radio communications system is described that comprises a measurement station (10) having a first clock and an interface station (20) having a second clock. The measurement station (10), which may form part of a measurement probe, is configured to transmit measurement information arising from a measurement event, the measurement information including timing information that relates the measurement event to the first clock. The interface station (20) is configured to receive the measurement information from the measurement station (10) and to generate a measurement output including timing information defined relative to the second clock. One of the first and second clocks is designated as a master clock and a periodic clock adjustment of the other of the first and second clocks is performed to maintain synchronisation with the designated master clock. The timing information of the measurement output generated by the interface station (20) takes into account any of the periodic clock adjustments that are applied between the occurrence of the measurement event and the generation of the measurement output. In this manner, jitter is reduced and metrology performance is improved.
H04B 1/713 - Spread spectrum techniques using frequency hopping
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G08C 17/02 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
A frequency hopping radio communications module (18,26) for a measurement system is described. The measurement system may comprise a measurement probe (10) and an interface (20) for a machine tool. The communications module (18,26) is configured to transmit and/or receive radio signals using at least ten frequency channels and can operate in at least a metrology mode for communicating measurement data and a standby mode. Operation in the standby mode comprises hopping between fewer frequency channels than operation in the metrology mode. In particular, operation in standby mode comprises hopping between three of the at least ten frequency channels in accordance with a second hopping pattern, the three frequency channels being from different thirds of the frequency band. This allows faster frequency hopping synchronisation to be achieved and improves battery life.
H04B 1/7143 - Arrangements for generation of hop patterns
H04B 1/7156 - Arrangements for sequence synchronisation
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
69.
NON-CONTACT TOOL SETTING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MOVING TOOL ALONG TOOL INSPECTION PATH
A method for assessing the profile of a tool using a non-contact tool setting apparatus that includes a transmitter for emitting a light beam and a receiver for receiving the beam. The receiver generates a beam intensity signal describing the intensity of received light. The setting apparatus is mounted to a coordinate positioning apparatus that allows the tool to be moved relative to the setting apparatus. The method includes using the coordinate positioning apparatus to move the tool relative to the setting apparatus along a tool inspection path, the tool inspection path being selected so that the light beam is traced substantially along a periphery of the tool to be inspected. Beam intensity data is collected describing the beam intensity signal that is generated by the receiver as the tool inspection path is traversed and analysis of the collected beam intensity data is used to assess the tool profile.
G01B 11/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
G01B 11/24 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures
G01B 11/04 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness specially adapted for measuring length or width of objects while moving
B23Q 17/24 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools using optics
70.
METAL POWDER BED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND METHODS
A powder bed fusion apparatus includes a build platform movable in a build sleeve, the build platform for supporting a bed of metal powder, a powder layer formation device for forming layers of metal powder to form the bed, a scanner for directing an energy beam to selected regions of each layer to consolidate the metal powder and a radio-wave generator arranged to surround the metal powder and generate radio waves to heat the metal powder that forms the bed.
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturing; Auxiliary means for additive manufacturing; Combinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
A method of manufacturing an article, including using coordinate measuring machine both to obtain three-dimensional point coordinate measurements of first part of article in place and to position a second part of article in predetermined spatial relationship relative to first part in dependence upon measurements of first part. Predetermined spatial relationship is defined in more than three degrees of freedom. Positioning second part relative to first part includes controlling machine to move second part relative to first part in more than three degrees of freedom. Machine is controlled to hold first and second parts in predetermined spatial relationship while performing an operation to fix both parts in predetermined spatial relationship. Second part is not in direct contact with any other part of article when first and second parts are in predetermined spatial relationship, at least not in a manner which would interfere with or influence or affect predetermined spatial relationship.
B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
B23P 21/00 - Machines for assembling a multiplicity of different parts to compose units, with or without preceding or subsequent working of such parts, e.g. with programme control
72.
METHOD OF COMMUNICATING INFORMATION TO A MEASUREMENT PROBE AND CORRESPONDING MEASUREMENT PROBE
Disclosed is a method of communicating information to a measurement probe mounted on a coordinate positioning machine. The method comprises encoding the information as one or more of a plurality of characteristic movements of the probe, controlling the machine to impart the movement(s) to the probe, detecting the movement(s) at the probe, and decoding the information at the probe from the detected movement(s). A measurement probe for use in such a method is also disclosed. The measurement probe is mountable to the machine and comprises at least one movement sensor for sensing movement imparted to the measurement probe by the machine, and a controller for determining whether the sensed movement comprises one or more of the plurality of characteristic movements of the probe and for performing an operation at or controlling operation of the probe in dependence on the determination.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
B23Q 17/20 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools for indicating or measuring workpiece characteristics, e.g. contour, dimension, hardness
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
73.
METROLOGY APPARATUS AND CORRESPONDING OPERATING METHOD
A metrology apparatus comprising an indexed articulated joint comprising: first and second bodies respectively having mutually engageable engagement elements, which can be locked together in a plurality of different angular orientations about a first axis so as to provide a plurality of angularly indexed positions at which the first and second bodies can be locked relative to each other; the engagement elements of the first and second bodies being dis-engageable by axial relative movement of the first and second bodies along the first axis in a first direction such that the first and second bodies can be unlocked and relatively rotated about the first axis, and re-engageable by axial relative movement of the first and second bodies along the axis in a second direction; the indexed articulated probe head further comprising at least one verification sensor configured to provide a measure of the relative spatial configuration of first and second bodies when in their locked state, and wherein the apparatus is configured such that in the event of the first and second bodies locking together at an indexed position, the verification sensor is used to obtain a current measure of the relative spatial configuration of the first and second bodies, and wherein information at least derived from said current measure is compared to calibration information which was at least derived from at least one other measure of the relative spatial configuration of the first and second bodies obtained by the verification sensor when the first and second bodies were locked at said indexed position, to establish information about the state of locking of the first and second bodies at an earlier point in time.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
B23Q 16/08 - Indexing equipment having means for clamping the relatively movable parts together in the indexed position
G01B 11/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
An articulated head for facilitating the reorientation of a tool mounted thereon, the articulated head comprising: a first member for mounting the articulated head on a positioning apparatus; a second member coupled to the first member such that its orientation relative to the first member about a first axis can be changed between, and locked at one of, a plurality of predefined indexable orientations, wherein the first member and second member can be unlocked by separating the first member and second member along the first axis so as to thereby enable reorientation of the second member relative to the first member about the first axis; a third member coupled to the second member such that its orientation relative to the second member about a second axis can be changed between, and locked at one of, a plurality of predefined indexable orientations, wherein the second member and third member can be unlocked by separating the second member and third member along the second axis so as to thereby enable reorientation of the third member relative to the second member about the second axis, wherein the first and second axis are not parallel; and at least one powered mechanism for controlling the separation of the first member and second member along the first axis and the separation of the second member and third member along the second axis, configured such that the separation of the first member and second member, and the separation of the second member and third member, can be controlled independently of each other.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 11/03 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
B23Q 16/08 - Indexing equipment having means for clamping the relatively movable parts together in the indexed position
A metrology apparatus comprising an articulated joint comprising: first and second bodies which can be locked together in a plurality of different angular orientations about a first axis; the first body comprising a prop which is actuatable by a motor between a retracted configuration at which the first and second bodies are in their locked state, and an extended configuration at which the first and second bodies are held apart by the prop along the first axis such that the first and second bodies are unlocked thereby permitting relative rotation of the first and second bodies, the prop and the second body being magnetically biased toward each other so as to magnetically retain the first and second bodies; and further comprising at least one supplemental bias member configured to bias the prop towards its retracted configuration
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 11/03 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
B23Q 16/08 - Indexing equipment having means for clamping the relatively movable parts together in the indexed position
A pallet loader for a positioning apparatus, including at least two pallet bays and at least one intermediate member, arranged such that at least two pallet bays are located on different sides of the intermediate member, such that at least one pallet can be driven i) from one pallet bay to another, and ii) from one pallet bay to a positioning apparatus, in which the apparatus includes cooperating guide features on the underside of the at least one pallet and on one or more of the intermediate member and pallet bays for guiding the pallet along a predetermined path and/or for controlling the rotational orientation of the pallet about a vertical axis, as the pallet moves across the intermediate member/pallet bay.
B65G 47/54 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices between conveyors which cross one another at least one of which is a roller-way
A method of mounting a rotary scale member on a machine part which is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The rotary scale member comprising a body on which a series of scale features defining a scale that extends around a scale axis is or can be provided, and at least three radially-compliant flexures spaced around said scale axis. The method comprises: i) locating the rotary scale member on the machine part such that the scale axis and axis of rotation are substantially parallel, and ii) subsequently arranging at least a first radial adjustment device so as to contact both the machine part and the rotary scale member, and manipulating the at least first radial adjustment device so as to radially displace the body of the rotary scale member. At least the majority of any radial reaction force, generated as a result of the interaction of at least one of said flexures with a radial stop member against which it is radially pressed, and which is imparted on the at least first radial adjustment device by the rotary scale member in opposition to said radial displacement of the rotary scale member, is directed into, and reacted by, the machine part via the contact between the at least first radial adjustment device and the machine part.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A method of determining any offset between: a) a scale axis of a disc scale member having a planar surface on which is provided a series of scale features defining a scale that extends and is centred around the scale axis, the scale axis extending normal to the planar surface; and b) the axis of rotation of a machine part on which the disc scale member is mounted, wherein the axis of rotation and the scale axis of the disc scale member are substantially parallel. The method comprises: i) determining any offset between the scale axis and the axis of rotation via inspection of an axially-extending surface provided with the disc scale member.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
79.
POWDER BED FUSION ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS AND APPARATUS
A powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method includes forming layers of powder of a powder bed and exposing the layers to one or more energy beams to melt the powder to form an object. The exposure of each layer to the or each energy beam forms melt pools in a conduction or transition mode with an exposure distance between adjacent exposures within the layer being 40% to 60% of a width of the melt pools generated by the exposures and an offset of exposures between successively melted layers in a direction in which the exposure distance is measured being 40% to 60% of the exposure distance.
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
A method of determining components present in a sample from spectral data obtained from the sample including resolving each of a plurality of models of the spectral data, the plurality of models including models having a different number of component reference spectra selected from a set of predetermined component reference spectra; selecting a one of the plurality of models based upon a model selection criterion and determining one or more components present in the sample based upon the selected model. The model selection criterion includes a measure for each model, which balances improvements in fit quality of the model to the spectral data against a complexity penalty determined from the number of component reference spectrum used in the model.
A laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing method comprising performing laser melting of layers of a powder bed of steel powder in a protective atmosphere comprising nitrogen, wherein a temperature of the powder bed is below 220°C. A 5 composition of the steel powder may comprise, by weight: 3% to 7% Cr, 2-5% Mo, 0.2% to 0.7% V, max0.7% Si, max1% Mn, max1.5% C, and a balance of Fe.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
10 - Medical apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Common metals and their alloys; common metals and their alloys in powder form; common metals in powder form; common metal powders used in manufacturing; metals in powder form for 3D printers and additive manufacturing machines tool setting arms for machine tools being parts of machines; additive manufacturing machines, namely, 3D printers; industrial robots; selective laser melting and sintering machines; filters and filter housings for additive manufacturing machines; machine tools, namely, modular and dedicated fixtures for holding parts for measurement on Coordinate Measuring Machines; 3D printers; robotic handling apparatus, namely, industrial robots; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods scanning apparatus, instruments and machines in the nature of scanners, coordinate measuring machines, gauging machines in the nature of length measuring gauges, other than for medical use; measuring probes featuring sensors for use with coordinate measuring machines, machine tools, gauges and robots; surface finish probes for scientific purposes, surface measurement probes other than for medical use; measuring probes featuring sensors for measuring dimensions and form and parts thereof, namely, adaptors, extensions, joints, shanks, adjusting plates, styli, holders, radio transmission apparatus in the nature of devices for wireless radio transmission, optical transmission apparatus in the nature of optical wireless signal transmission, contact modules, interfaces, probe heads; laser scanning probes being scanners; video probes for scientific purposes; vision probes for scientific purposes; camera probes for scientific purposes; automatic probe exchange apparatus, namely, racks for probes; machine checking gauges in the nature of gauges to check dimensions and form; tripod gauging apparatus, namely, tripod pressure gauges; hexapod gauging apparatus, namely, hexapod pressure gauges; laser interferometers; optical reflectors; parts of laser interferometers, namely, beam splitters, lasers, bases, tripods, photo-detection apparatus in the nature of laser interferometers, optical components in the nature of optical transmitters and receivers; Raman microscopes; spectroscopy apparatus, namely, photo electron spectroscopy analyzers, not for medical purposes; spectroscopy instruments, namely, photo electron spectroscopy analyzers, not for medical purposes; Raman spectroscopy analysers, not for medical purposes; lasers, not for medical use; rotary stages for microscopes; microscope stages being parts of microscopes; measuring scales, scale readers being parts of scales, scale applicators being parts of scales, linear encoder readheads being parts of scales, linear encoder scales, rotary encoder readheads being parts of scales, rotary encoder scales, angle encoder readheads being parts of scales, angle encoder scales, encoder scales, encoder rings being parts of encoders, encoder discs being parts of encoders, absolute encoders, incremental encoders, optical encoders, magnetic encoders, inductive encoders, interpolators for encoders being parts of encoders, encoder interfaces being parts of encoders, encoder adapters being parts of encoders; ball bars for calibrating machines and transducers thereof; Computer hardware with recorded computer aided design (CAD) software for general use; computer hardware with recorded computer software for industrial design and for product design; computer hardware with recorded computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software for general use; computer hardware with recorded computer software for controlling manufacturing processes; computer hardware with recorded computer software for controlling additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping machines, selective laser melting and sintering machines, machines for casting, moulding and shaping metals and plastics materials, and heating and melting apparatus; downloadable computer software and programs for viewing, editing and calculating three dimensional coordinated data; downloadable computer programs and software for viewing, measuring, editing and calculating speed, distance, height, volume, width, diameter, inclination and area; computer hardware; downloadable computer software for controlling motion and movement of machines; downloadable electronic publications, namely, machine and machine tooling user guides in the field of metrology; downloadable application software for metrology; downloadable computer application software for metrology; computers, joysticks, controllers, downloadable computer programs for controlling machine tools, coordinate measuring machines, gauges and tool setting systems; medical simulators being teaching aids; tablet computers; tablet monitors; tablet docking stations; stands adapted for tablet computers; tablet computers adapted for use in medical environments; apparatus in the nature of computer hardware with recorded software for analysing images acquired using magnetic resonance imaging apparatus; tool setting systems compromised of lasers for measuring dimension and form sensors and tactile sensors; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods veterinary apparatus and instruments, namely, surgical apparatus for animals; dental apparatus and instruments, namely, dental implants; neurosurgical catheters for insertion into the brain parenchyma; stereotactic robots being surgical robots and robotic systems consisting of surgical robots for use in neurosurgical procedures and biopsy; medical electrodes; medical syringes; catheters; cannula; artificial limbs and teeth; artificial bone materials being bone implants composed of artificial materials; orthopaedic implants made of artificial materials; maxillofacial implants made of artificial materials; cranial implants made of artificial materials; maxillofacial splints; artificial cranial components, namely, artificial cranial implants; surgical robots; robots for neurosurgery; robotic arms for neurosurgery in the nature of surgical robots; stereotactic frames used to localize an area of the brain or spine for neurosurgery; head frames and head clamps being instruments for head stabilization during neurosurgery; implantable neurosurgical devices, namely, surgical implants made of artificial materials; implantable drug delivery pumps; drug delivery systems consisting of cathesters and cannulas; neurosurgical catheters; deep brain stimulation medical electrodes; fluid connectors being parts and fittings for drug delivery systems consisting of drug delivery catheters; implantable percutaneous drug delivery ports and caps for such ports; implantable drug delivery apparatus being implantable drug delivery pumps; medical syringes for injections; medical instrument cases for use by surgeons and doctors; medical fluid injectors for medical purposes; syringes for medical purposes; needles for medical purposes; spectroscopy instruments, namely, spectrometers for use in molecular diagnostics and healthcare related fields for medical purposes; medical robotic surgical apparatus and machines being surgical robots; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods Retail and online retail store services in relation to probes, scanning, encoder, calibration and spectroscopy systems, medical, surgical and dental apparatus and instruments; online retail store services featuring credit tokens for measurement probes; product demonstration services Maintenance and repair of industrial and technical apparatus and instruments; maintenance and repair of measuring apparatus and instruments; maintenance and repair of machine tools; maintenance and repair of tool setting systems and tool setting arms for machine tools; maintenance and repair of surgical, medical and dental apparatus; maintenance and repair of spectroscopic systems and instrumentation; providing information relating to the repair or maintenance of medical, surgical and dental instruments, apparatus and equipment; machinery retrofit services; retrofit services for coordinate measuring machines and machine tools; re-calibration of medical, surgical and dental instruments, apparatus and equipment; installation services of industrial, technical, medical, surgical and dental apparatus and instruments; information and advisory services relating to the aforementioned services Manufacturing services for others in the field of medical and healthcare, namely, prosthetic limbs, orthopaedic implants, maxillofacial implants, cranial implants; custom manufacture and assembly services for medical and healthcare, namely, prosthetic limbs, orthopaedic implants, maxillofacial implants, cranial implants; contract manufacturing services for others in the field of medical and healthcare, namely, prosthetic limbs, orthopaedic implants, maxillofacial implants, cranial implants; subcontracted manufacturing services for others in the field of medical and healthcare, namely, prosthetic limbs, orthopaedic implants, maxillofacial implants, cranial implants; custom manufacture of dental restorations; fabrication, cutting and polishing of metal and plastic components using additive manufacturing, casting, moulding, shaping, rapid manufacturing, rapid prototyping, selective laser melting and selective laser sintering techniques for others; information and advisory services relating to the aforementioned services training services relating to the operation of measuring apparatus and instruments and scanning apparatus and instruments; training services relating to the measurement and manufacture of dental restorations; training services relating to the use of spectroscopic systems and instrumentation; provision of Raman applications training; provision of medical instructional courses; information and advisory services relating to the aforementioned services Scientific and technological services, namely, research and design in the field of metrology; industrial analysis and research services in the field of metrology; industrial design services; new product design services; design of new products for fabrication by additive manufacturing; design of additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping machines, selective laser melting and sintering machines and heating and melting apparatus; design and development of computer hardware and software; calibration services; calibration of industrial and technical apparatus and instruments; calibration of measuring apparatus and instruments; calibration of machine tools; calibration of tool setting systems and tool setting arms for machine tools; computer diagnostic services; consultancy services relating to metrology; information and advisory services relating to the aforementioned services
83.
MACHINE CONTROL FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS AND APPARATUS
A method controls an additive manufacturing apparatus, in which an object is built by consolidating material in a layer-by-layer manner. The method includes receiving commands to be executed by the additive manufacturing apparatus to cause the additive manufacturing apparatus to carry out a build of an object, wherein each command includes an identifier identifying a time during the build at which the command is to be executed, and executing each command on the additive manufacturing apparatus in accordance with the time identified by the associated identifier. Further, an apparatus and a data carrier carry out the method.
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
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
B22F 10/00 - Additive manufacturing of workpieces or articles from metallic powder
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
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 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
A method including: a) causing a tool mounted on a machine tool to work on a workpiece, and at least one sensor, which is configured to measure one or more aspects of the tool and/or machine tool, collecting sensor data during said working; b) a measurement device inspecting the part of the workpiece that was worked on at step a) to obtain measurement data; and c) calculating sensor-to-workpiece data calibration information from the sensor data and the measurement data.
A method of producing a workpiece (8) comprising molybdenum, or tungsten, or chromium, or molybdenum alloy, or tungsten alloy, or chromium alloy by selective consolidation of successive layers of powder by an energy beam (3), the method comprising performing the selective consolidation of the powder layer in a protective atmosphere comprising nitrogen.
A method of determining instructions to be executed by a powder bed fusion apparatus, in which an object is built in a layer-by-layer manner by selectively irradiating regions of successively formed powder layers with an energy beam. The method comprises determining an exposure parameter for each location within a layer to be irradiated with the energy beam from a primary exposure parameter, the exposure parameters varying with location. An amount each exposure parameter varies from the primary exposure parameter is determined, at least in part, from a geometric quantity of the object derived from the location of the irradiation.
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 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
An ultrasound probe is described that comprises a transducer for transmitting and receiving ultrasound. The probe also includes a coupling element, such as a spherical ball of self-lubricating or hydrogel material, for contacting and acoustically coupling to an object to be inspected. The ultrasound probe also includes an analyser that is arranged to analyse the ultrasound signal received by the transducer and thereby determine if there is contact between the coupling element, and the surface of an object. The probe can thus be used for internal (ultrasound) inspection of objects as well as measuring the position of points on the surface of the object. The probe may be mountable to a coordinate measuring machine or other moveable platforms.
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details providing acoustic coupling
G01N 29/11 - Analysing solids by measuring attenuation of acoustic waves
G01B 17/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic vibrations for measuring thickness
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 8/08 - Detecting organic movements or changes, e.g. tumours, cysts, swellings
88.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING POWDER RECIRCULATION SYSTEM
An additive manufacturing powder recirculation apparatus including: a powder recirculation loop having: an inlet for receiving powder from an additive manufacture apparatus; an outlet for supplying powder to the additive manufacture apparatus; and a powder flow path extending between the inlet and outlet. A diverter valve in the powder flow path is configured to selectively place the powder flow in fluid communication with either the downstream powder recirculation loop or a hopper outside of the powder recirculation loop.
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
A coordinate positioning machine includes a drive frame and a metrology frame. The drive frame includes a drive arrangement for moving a structure around a working volume of the machine. The metrology frame includes a metrology arrangement for measuring the position of the structure within the working volume. The metrology arrangement is a hexapod metrology arrangement and the drive arrangement is a non-hexapod drive arrangement. The metrology frame has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is lower than that of the drive frame. The drive frame is coupled to the metrology frame via a coupling arrangement which prevents at least some distortion associated with any extra thermal expansion and contraction of the drive frame from being transferred to the metrology frame. The drive arrangement moves the structure around the working volume, and the metrology arrangement measures the position of the structure within the working volume.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 5/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
An optical distance measurement or ranging apparatus is described. The apparatus includes at least one optical pulse generator (30,32; 80,94; 120,122; 180,202; 300,320) for generating a train of gating pulses and a train of probe pulses, the train of gating pulses having a different repetition rate than the train of probe 10 pulses. The gating and probe pulses may be ultrashort laser pulses generated by different free-running, mode-locked lasers. An optical probing arrangement is also provided for directing the train of probe pulses to one or more objects (42,44; 84,86; 188, 190; 232,234,236; 306,310) and for collecting returned probe pulses returned from the one or more objects. The objects may include a target object and a reference object. The apparatus comprises a multi-photon effect detector (58; 104; 140; 210; 324, 330) and is configured to direct both the train of gating pulses and the returned probe pulses to the multi-photon effect detector. The apparatus may be used for industrial inspection, machine calibration, position measurement or the like.
A method of aligning an on-axis melt pool sensor in an additive manufacturing apparatus. The method includes scanning a first laser beam along a first scan path across a working surface using a first optical train to generate a melt pool along the first scan path and scanning a field of view of an on-axis sensor along a second scan path across the working surface using a second optical train for steering a second laser beam. The first and second scan paths intersect. An adjustment to be made to an alignment of the field of view of the on-axis sensor with an optical axis of the second optical train is determined from a variation in the signal generated by the on-axis sensor as the field of view is scanned along the second scan path.
B22F 12/47 - Radiation means with translatory movement parallel to the deposition plane
B22F 10/85 - Data acquisition or data processing 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
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
A powder bed fusion apparatus for building an object in a layer-by-layer manner, the powder bed fusion apparatus comprising a processing chamber (101, 201, 301, 601) having a processing chamber aperture (102, 202, 302, 602, 702), a scanner (106, 206, 306, 606) arranged to direct an energy beam to locations in a plane of the processing chamber aperture (102, 202, 302, 602, 702) and a debuilding chamber (103, 203, 303, 603, 703) having a debuilding chamber aperture (104, 204, 304, 604, 704). The powder bed fusion apparatus further comprises a build chamber (118, 218, 318, 618, 718) defined by a build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) and a build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720) movable within the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) for supporting powder within the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719), the build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720) comprising a build platform seal (121) for engaging with walls of the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) to prevent the flow of powder past the build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720); and 15 at least one drive mechanism for driving movement of the build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720) in the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719). A translation mechanism (125) is provided for moving the build chamber (118, 218, 318, 618, 718) between a building position, in which the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) aligns with the processing chamber aperture (102, 202, 302, 602, 702) such that an energy beam can be delivered by the scanner to the processing chamber aperture (102, 202, 302, 602, 702) to consolidate powder supported by the build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720) in the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) to build the object, and a debuilding position, in which the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719) aligns with the debuilding chamber aperture (104, 204, 304, 604, 704) such that the object and powder can be inserted into the debuilding chamber (103, 203, 303, 603, 703) through the debuilding chamber aperture (104, 204, 304, 604, 704) through movement of the build platform (120, 220, 320, 620, 720) within the build sleeve (119, 219, 319, 619, 719).
B22F 12/33 - Platforms or substrates translatory in the deposition plane
B22F 12/00 - Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturing; Auxiliary means for additive manufacturing; Combinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
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 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
B22F 12/84 - Parallel processing within single device
A method of calibrating an ultrasound probe having a coupling element for engaging the surface of an object to be inspected, in which the ultrasound probe and a calibration artefact are provided on a positioning apparatus having at least one axis about which the relative orientation of the ultrasound probe and calibration artefact can be changed, the method including, in any suitable order: i) for a plurality of different relative orientations between the ultrasound probe and the calibration artefact about the at least one axis, measuring the signal received by the ultrasound probe; and ii) from the measurements, determining at least one calibration parameter which is indicative of at least one axis of optimum signal of the ultrasound probe, and recording the at least one calibration parameter for subsequent use.
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details providing acoustic coupling
A method of powder bed fusion additive manufacture includes forming a component in a powder bed in a layer-by-layer process. The method may include sintering, without melting, selected regions of powder with an energy beam to form at least one support adjacent to the component; and melting further selected regions of the powder bed with an energy beam to form a component by layer-by-layer melting of material. The method may include directing an energy beam at selected regions of powder to form a friable support, the friable support including bonded powder which act as a solid and provide compressive support; and melting further regions of the powder bed with an energy beam to form a component by layer-by-layer melting of material.
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
B23K 26/03 - Observing, e.g. monitoring, the workpiece
Apparatus comprising an encoder scale disc (100) and a mount, the encoder scale disc (100) comprising radially and/or tangentially resilient features (110) located radially outwards of a scale (145) configured to interact with the mount so as to locate the scale disc (100) on the mount. The encoder scale disc 100 may comprise radially resilient features (145) which may deviate radially from the disc (110). Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing an apparatus comprising an encoder scale disc (100), comprising mounting a disc (100) comprising radially resilient features (145) to a device, wherein the radially resilient features (145) of the disc (100) interact with the device to place the disc in radial compression, mounting the disc (100) on an apparatus, wherein mounting features on the device and the apparatus interact in the same manner to place the disc (100) in radial compression.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A method of mounting a rotary scale member on a part (e.g. of an articulated joint), the rotary scale member comprising a body on which a series of position features defining a scale is provided, and at least one mounting flexure configured to engage the part, the method comprising: force-fitting the rotary scale member and the part together, whereby the at least one flexure is displaced by the part and thereby urged via a radial reaction force into engagement with the part so as to form a friction fit with the part such that the body of the rotary scale member self- locates at an initial default radial location with respect to the part; and tweaking the radial location of the body relative to the part away from its initial default radial location to a new radial location.
G01D 5/244 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means generating pulses or pulse trains
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
97.
METHOD FOR MEASURING NON-TOOTHED TOOLS USING A NON-CONTACT TOOL SETTER
An improved method is described for measuring a dimension (e.g. diameter) of a non-toothed tool, for example a grinding tool such as a diamond coated burr. The method may be implemented on a machine tool, such as a lathe, machining centre or the like. The method comprises passing a beam of light from a transmitter (10) to a receiver (14). The receiver (14) produces a received intensity signal related to the intensity of received light. Analysis of variations in the received intensity signal is performed when a rotating tool (40; 88) is moved relative to the light beam (12) to enable a dimension of the tool (40; 88) to be measured. In particular, it may be determined when the received intensity signal has crossed a threshold for at least a defined duration (Tq), the defined duration being less than the time taken for one complete rotation of the tool (Tr).
G01B 11/04 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness specially adapted for measuring length or width of objects while moving
B23Q 17/24 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools using optics
A touch trigger probe interface for a machine tool is described that includes a probe communication portion for receiving probe event information from a touch trigger probe. A machine tool communication portion is also provided for outputting probe event information to a numerical controller of the machine tool. The machine tool communication portion outputs the probe event information as digital data packets, for example over a digital data bus. The digital data packets may include a time stamp and/or the touch trigger probe interface may receive timing information from the machine tool. A touch trigger probing system and a machine tool system including the probe interface are also described.
G01B 5/008 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring coordinates of points using coordinate measuring machines
G01B 21/04 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness by measuring coordinates of points
G05B 19/402 - 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 control arrangements for positioning, e.g. centring a tool relative to a hole in the workpiece, additional detection means to correct position
A hard-wired measurement device is mountable within an enclosure of a computer-controlled machine tool. The device includes a measurement sensor for measuring objects, such as tools, within the machine tool enclosure and a hard-wired interface module for providing an electrical connection via one or more wires with an associated external interface located outside of the machine tool enclosure. The device further includes a wireless communications module that enables wireless communication with an associated wireless device, such as a spindle probe, located within the machine tool enclosure.
B23Q 17/09 - Arrangements for indicating or measuring on machine tools for indicating or measuring cutting pressure or cutting-tool condition, e.g. cutting ability, load on tool
A powder bed fusion apparatus and method includes a build platform for supporting a powder bed onto which layers of a powder can be deposited, a scanner for scanning an energy beam over each layer to fuse selected regions of the powder bed and a gas flow circuit for passing a flow of gas over the powder bed. The gas flow circuit includes a filter assembly including a filter housing through which the gas flows, the filter housing containing a granulate, preferably powder, filter medium for filtering particles from the gas flow. The powder filter medium may correspond to powder used to form the powder bed such as being of the same material as the powder used to form the powder bed.
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B33Y 30/00 - 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 - Details thereof or accessories therefor
