An apparatus and method are disclosed for removing support material or resin from additively manufactured parts. The apparatus includes a processing pump at least a portion of which is located in or adjacent to a processing tank filled with a liquid formulation suitable for removal of support material or resin from additively manufactured parts. The processing pump is adapted to create a vortex within the liquid formulation in the processing tank.
An improved exhaust system and method for an apparatus that removes support material from additively manufactured parts is disclosed. The apparatus includes an enclosed chamber in which the additively manufactured parts are placed. A heated detergent fluid is sprayed at the additively manufactured parts. The improved exhaust system exhausts heated air from the chamber. The improved exhaust system includes an exhaust channel having an inlet end open to the chamber through which heated air from the chamber is caused to flow. Relatively cooler air is caused to flow across the outside of the exhaust channel. When the heated air from the chamber encounters the exhaust channel across which the relatively cooler air is caused to flow, evaporated fluids in the heated air condense and fall back into the chamber. The improved exhaust system can be retrofitted onto older models of the support removal apparatus that do not have the improved exhaust system.
B01D 53/00 - Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases or aerosols
B08B 15/02 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area using chambers or hoods covering the area
B22F 10/40 - Structures for supporting workpieces or articles during manufacture and removed afterwards
B22F 10/62 - Treatment of workpieces or articles after build-up by chemical means
Compositions or finishing solutions configured to remove unwanted material, such as uncured resin and ceramic filler, from surfaces of additively manufactured objects are disclosed herein. The finishing solutions may be configured to remove such uncured resin and ceramic filler through submersion of the object in the finishing solution and agitating the submerged object at an ultrasonic frequency, without subjecting the object to any subsequent mechanical acts (such as brushing, sanding, or bead blasting) to remove any remaining uncured resin and/or ceramic filler from the object. In one example, the finishing solution includes a first glycol ether and a second glycol ether and/or a high flash point hydrocarbon, wherein the finishing solution has a flash point of at least 93.3° C. In alternative examples, the finishing solution may also include a third glycol ether, a high flash point alcohol, and/or an acetate of a glycol ether.
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B28B 11/22 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles for cleaning
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
4.
SELF-MODIFYING AGITATION PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPORT REMOVAL IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING AND 3D PRINTED MATERIAL
A process for support material removal for 3D printed parts wherein the part is placed in a media filled tank and support removal is optimized in a multi-parameter system through an artificial intelligence process which may include, but is not limited to, the use of historical data, parametric testing data, normal support removal data, and outputs from other support removal AI models to generate optimally efficient use of each parameter in terms of pulse repetition interval (PRI) and cycle time as defined by pulse width (PW). The input parameters may include heat, circulation, ultrasound and chemical reaction, which are used in sequence and/or in parallel, to optimize efficiency of support removal. Sequentially and/or in parallel, heat, pump circulation and ultrasound may vary in application or intensity. Selection of means of agitation depends on monitored feedback from the support removal tank and application of a statistically dynamic rule based system (SDRBS).
B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B24B 49/00 - 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
B24B 49/14 - 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 taking regard of the temperature during grinding
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 surface finishing apparatus and method for smoothing and coloring parts made by additive-manufacturing technologies is disclosed. The surface finishing apparatus includes a tank or chamber into which a part is placed. A colorant is added. The part is both colored and smoothed until the part is at a desired smoothness and color. The part may be smoothed by different suitable smoothing technologies, including abrading with solid media, spraying with a liquid fluid, spraying with solid particles entrained in a liquid fluid, or submersing in a liquid vortex. Also disclosed is a composition for a colorant for a finishing process that smooths a surface of an additively manufactured part while coloring the additively manufactured part.
C09D 167/00 - Coating compositions based on polyesters obtained by reactions forming a carboxylic ester link in the main chain; Coating compositions based on derivatives of such polymers
C09D 163/00 - Coating compositions based on epoxy resins; Coating compositions based on derivatives of epoxy resins
6.
Method And Apparatus For Support Removal Using Directed Atomized And Semi-Atomized Fluid
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, and one or more nozzles within the chamber. The nozzles may be the same size or different sizes. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part. The support surface may have one or more openings sized and configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semi-atomized spray of the fluid. For removing support material from parts with internal spaces, such as cavities or passages, the apparatus can include a nozzle at the end of an adjustable flexible hose member that can be adjusted to spray into an internal space of the part. Alternatively, for removing unwanted support material from multiple parts with internal spaces, the apparatus may include a submersion tank.
B22F 3/24 - After-treatment of workpieces or articles
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
A system and method are disclosed for removal of unwanted material from additively manufactured parts by application of vibratory and/or acoustic energy. The system and method include a vibratory platform located in a chamber. Additively manufactured parts having unwanted material adhered thereto are placed on the vibratory platform. The platform is caused to vibrate thereby causing the unwanted material to detach from the parts. The system and method may also include the application of acoustic energy to cause unwanted material to detach from the parts. Advantageously, the unwanted material removed from the additively manufactured object can be recycled.
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
B08B 7/02 - Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass by distortion, beating, or vibration of the surface to be cleaned
B08B 15/04 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area from a small area, e.g. a tool
A surface equalization apparatus designed to be compatible with a wide variety of part technologies, composite materials and part geometries. The apparatus works with software, chemistry, abrasives and media and includes an oblong, elongated input tank for holding media and a part. The input tank is connected to a motor mount, which is connected to an eccentric motor. When the motor is activated, the input tank begins to move in a vibrational, sinusoidal manner. The motion of the tank on attached springs generates a rotational flow of media in the tank. This creates a low amplitude/high frequency movement of the part through the tank. Surface structures divert media to prevent the part from contacting the side of the tank. Spray nozzles are positioned above the input tank. Acoustic damping foam is positioned around the central components. A cooling fan allows airflow through the apparatus.
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/00 - Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
B29C 64/236 - Driving means for motion in a direction within the plane of a layer
Compositions or finishing solutions configured to remove unwanted material, such as uncured material or resin, from additively manufactured objects are disclosed herein, in one example, the finishing solution includes a first glycol ether and a second glycol ether and/or a high flash point hydrocarbon, wherein the finishing solution has a flash point of at least 93.3° C. In alternative examples, the finishing solution may also include a third glycol ether, a high flash point alcohol, and/or an acetate of a glycol ether.
C11D 11/00 - Special methods for preparing compositions containing mixtures of detergents
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
A system and method are disclosed for additively manufacturing an object having an internal chase. The system and method include evaluating a print design file that defines physical properties of the object to be printed with the additive manufacturing process to determine whether the object can be printed with a removable plug located inside the internal chase, and if so, modifying the print design file to include the removable plug. The object is then printed with the removable plug, which is removed prior to removing the support material.
B29C 64/379 - Handling of additively manufactured objects, e.g. using robots
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
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
11.
Vision System And Method For Apparatus For Support Removal Using Directed Atomized And Semi-Atomized Fluid
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, one or more nozzles within the chamber, a tank positioned below the nozzles, and a vision system. The vision system includes one or more cameras and other imagery obtaining sensors located in the chamber. The cameras and sensors obtain imagery of the additively manufactured part as it is being sprayed to finish the part. The imagery is displayed on a display panel located outside the apparatus or stored for later playback.
Described are finishing mediums for removing support material and/or for surface finishing of objects made via additive manufacturing techniques. The finishing medium is an aqueous solution containing 1-20% by weight a polyol, 1-20% by weight an anti-corrosion agent, 0.001-10% by weight a hydrotrope. The finishing medium may optionally suspend media particles, thereby forming a finishing suspension. Also described are methods of using the finishing media and finishing suspensions described herein.
C09G 1/02 - Polishing compositions containing abrasives or grinding agents
B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
13.
Methods And System For Removal Of Unwanted Material From An Additively Manufactured Object
Systems and methods according to the invention are used for removal of unwanted material from an additively manufactured object by application of sonic energy are disclosed. Application of sound at specific frequencies, specific amplitudes and specific waveforms to specific materials causes physical displacement of such materials. When applied to objects formed by additive manufacturing and unwanted material formed with such objects, the displacement causes the unwanted material to break away from the object. Advantageously, the unwanted material removed from the additively manufactured object can be recycled.
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, one or more nozzles within the chamber, a tank positioned below the nozzles, and a diverter positioned between the nozzles and the tank. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part and may have one or more openings configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semiatomized spray of the fluid. The diverter comprises an umbrella or a diverter shield and diverts sprayed fluid from directly impacting the fluid being collected in the tank, whereby foaming of the fluid in the tank is reduced.
Methods using formulations for processing a manufactured metal or metal-alloy object, in particular a metal or metal-alloy object manufactured by an additive manufacturing process, are disclosed. Methods, systems and equipment for using the formulations to remove excess materials from the surface, remove support materials, and/or modify the surface of a metal or metal-alloy manufactured object are also disclosed.
A method for removing substrate material from a part produced by a 3-D printer. The machine includes a housing having a working chamber defined therein. A spray header is disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the working chamber. A pump is configured and arranged to convey a fluid at varying pressures through the spray header. The fluid contacts the part and then flows to the bottom of the working chamber to a fluid outlet.
B08B 3/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
B08B 15/02 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area using chambers or hoods covering the area
B29C 64/20 - 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
17.
System and method of manufacturing an additively manufactured object
Methods and systems according to the invention may be used to modify a manufacturing plan for an object manufactured by an additive manufacturing process. A digital representation of a desired object and a manufacturing plan may be compared to manufacturing information generated via an evaluation of such an object. Based on that comparison, the manufacturing plan may be modified so that that object or a subsequent object is highly similar to the desired object.
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 10/12 - Formation of a green body by photopolymerisation, e.g. stereolithography [SLA] or digital light processing [DLP]
B22F 10/14 - Formation of a green body by jetting of binder onto a bed of metal powder
B22F 10/18 - Formation of a green body by mixing binder with metal in filament form, e.g. fused filament fabrication [FFF]
B22F 10/28 - Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
A process for removing support material from a part made by an additive manufacturing process is disclosed. The part may be arranged in a media filled tank. Ultrasonic waves are directed for the part and/or support material. Ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic transducer are applied to a part or support material and cause the part to vibrate. The frequency of the ultrasonic energy may be tuned to cause the part and/or the support material to vibrate at its resonant frequency. The support material may have different properties, such as density, geometry, material, or porosity. Such differences may allow the support material to resonate in response to the applied ultrasonic energy waves at a different ultrasonic frequency than, the part itself.
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
19.
Compositions for removing support material from a 3D-printed object and methods of making thereof
Described are finishing solutions for removing support material and finishing 3D-printed objects. The finishing solution may contain a base (e.g., an aqueous base), an optional first caustic agent, an optional second caustic agent, an optional third caustic agent, an optional emulsifier, a polyol, a first antifoaming agent, an optional second antifoaming agent, and water. Also described are methods of using the finishing solution described herein.
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
C09D 9/02 - Chemical paint or ink removers with abrasives
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, and one or more nozzles within the chamber. The nozzles may be the same size or different sizes. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part. The support surface may have one or more openings sized and configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semi-atomized spray of the fluid.
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, and one or more nozzles within the chamber. The nozzles may be the same size or different sizes. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part. The support surface may have one or more openings sized and configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semi-atomized spray of the fluid. For removing support material from parts with internal spaces, such as cavities or passages, the apparatus can include a nozzle at the end of an adjustable flexible hose member that can be adjusted to spray into an internal space of the part. Alternatively, for removing unwanted support material from multiple parts with internal spaces, the apparatus may include a submersion tank.
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
An apparatus and method for removing support material from a part formed by three-dimensional (3D) printing. The support removal machine contains a tank for submersion of a 3D printed part into a liquid mass. The liquid mass circulates in the tank in a controlled manner such that submerged parts remain centrally suspended in the tank, regardless of the material, density and geometry comprising the part. The part circulates and rotates in conjunction with the rotational flow of the liquid mass for uniform exposure to means of support removal. During rotation, the part may be subjected to multiple means of agitation that include heat, chemical and ultrasonic, in order to optimize energy use and maximize efficiency of the removal of support material.
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B08B 3/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B08B 7/00 - Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass
An apparatus and method for removing support material from a part formed by three-dimensional (3D) printing. The support removal machine contains a tank for submersion of a 3D printed part into a liquid mass. The liquid mass circulates in the tank in a controlled manner such that submerged parts remain centrally suspended in the tank, regardless of the material, density and geometry comprising the part. The part circulates and rotates in conjunction with the rotational flow of the liquid mass for uniform exposure to means of support removal. During rotation, the part may be subjected to multiple means of agitation that include heat, chemical and ultrasonic, in order to optimize energy use and maximize efficiency of the removal of support material.
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B08B 3/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B08B 7/00 - Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass
24.
Self-modifying process for rotational support structure removal in 3D printed parts using calibrated resonant frequency
A process for removing support material from a part made by an additive manufacturing process is disclosed. The part may be arranged in a media filled tank. Ultrasonic waves are directed for the part and/or support material. Ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic transducer are applied to a part or support material and cause the part to vibrate. The frequency of the ultrasonic energy may be tuned to cause the part and/or the support material to vibrate at its resonant frequency. The support material may have different properties, such as density, geometry, material, or porosity. Such differences may allow the support material to resonate in response to the applied ultrasonic energy waves at a different ultrasonic frequency than, the part itself.
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
Methods and systems according to the invention may be used to modify a manufacturing plan for an object manufactured by an additive manufacturing process. A digital representation of a desired object and a manufacturing plan may be compared to manufacturing information generated via an evaluation of such an object. Based on that comparison, the manufacturing plan may be modified so that that object or a subsequent object is highly similar to the desired object.
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
26.
Self-modifying agitation process and apparatus for support removal in additive manufacturing and 3D printed material
A process for support material removal for 3D printed parts wherein the part is placed in a media filled tank and support removal is optimized in a multi-parameter system through an artificial intelligence process which may include, but is not limited to, the use of historical data, parametric testing data, normal support removal data, and outputs from other support removal AI models to generate optimally efficient use of each parameter in terms of pulse repetition interval (PRI) and cycle time as defined by pulse width (PW). The input parameters may include heat, circulation, ultrasound and chemical reaction, which are used in sequence and/or in parallel, to optimize efficiency of support removal. Sequentially and/or in parallel, heat, pump circulation and ultrasound may vary in application or intensity. Selection of means of agitation depends on monitored feedback from the support removal tank and application of a statistically dynamic rule based system (SDRBS).
B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B24B 49/00 - 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
B24B 49/14 - 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 taking regard of the temperature during grinding
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
B24B 31/10 - Machines or devices designed for polishing or abrading surfaces on work by means of tumbling apparatus or other apparatus in which the work or the abrasive material is loose; Accessories therefor involving other means for tumbling of work
27.
Method and apparatus for support removal using directed atomized and semi-atomized fluid
An apparatus and method for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additively manufactured part (the “AM part”) is disclosed. The apparatus may include a chamber, a support surface within the chamber, and one or more nozzles within the chamber. The nozzles may be the same size or different sizes. The support surface may be configured to support the AM part. The support surface may have one or more openings sized and configured to allow the fluid to pass through the opening(s). The nozzles may be configured to spray a fluid at the AM part, and the spray may be an atomized or semi-atomized spray of the fluid.
Apparatuses and methods for removing support material from and/or smoothing surfaces of an additive-manufactured part are disclosed. Apparatuses may include a spraying chamber, a support surface within the spraying chamber, and one or more nozzles having the ability to spray a fluid at the additive-manufactured parts. The fluid may include a liquid and solid particles carried by the liquid. The support surface may have the ability to support the additive manufactured part. The apparatus may include a tank having the ability to hold at least some of the fluid. A heater may be included for heating the fluid to a desired temperature.
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
B22F 3/24 - After-treatment of workpieces or articles
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
B08B 3/04 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid
B08B 5/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets, e.g. blowing-out cavities
B24C 1/00 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods
B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
A surface equalization apparatus designed to be compatible with a wide variety of part technologies, composite materials and part geometries. The apparatus works with software, chemistry, abrasives and media and includes an oblong, elongated input tank for holding media and a part. The input tank is connected to a motor mount, which is connected to an eccentric motor. When the motor is activated, the input tank begins to move in a vibrational, sinusoidal manner. The motion of the tank on attached springs generates a rotational flow of media in the tank. This creates a low amplitude/high frequency movement of the part through the tank. Surface structures divert media to prevent the part from contacting the side of the tank. Spray nozzles are positioned above the input tank. Acoustic damping foam is positioned around the central components. A cooling fan allows airflow through the apparatus.
B29C 64/188 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control
B29C 64/00 - Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
B29C 64/232 - Driving means for motion along the axis orthogonal to the plane of a layer
B29C 64/236 - Driving means for motion in a direction within the plane of a layer
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
30.
Method for removing substrate material, for washing, and for drying parts produced by a 3-D printer
A method for removing substrate material from a part produced by a 3-D printer. The method includes providing a housing having a working chamber defined therein. The method further includes providing a spray header disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the working chamber. A pump is configured and arranged to convey a fluid at varying pressures through the spray header. Fluid contacts a part inserted into the working chamber and then flows to the bottom of the working chamber to a fluid outlet.
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
B29C 64/20 - 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 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
B08B 3/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
31.
Machine for removing substrate material, for washing, and for drying parts produced by a 3-D printer
A machine for removing substrate material from a part produced by a 3-D printer. The machine includes a housing having a working chamber defined therein. A spray header is disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the working chamber. A pump is configured and arranged to convey a fluid at varying pressures through the spray header. The fluid contacts the part and then flows to the bottom of the working chamber to a fluid outlet.
B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
B29C 64/20 - 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 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
B08B 3/00 - Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
B08B 15/02 - Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area using chambers or hoods covering the area
32.
Machine for removing substrate material from parts produced by a 3-D printer
A machine for washing and removing substrate material for parts produced by a 3D printer. The machine includes a housing having a working chamber and a disposal chamber. The machine has at least one inlet in fluid communication with the working chamber. The disposal chamber is disposed adjacent to the working chamber. A dividing wall is disposed between the working chamber and the disposal chamber. A pump conveys a working fluid to the at least one inlet in the working chamber. The disposal chamber and the working chamber are disposed in fluid communication via a passageway such that working fluid passes from the working chamber to the disposal chamber. The machine may also include an ultrasonic generator for generating ultrasonic vibrations within the working chamber and a heater for warming the working fluid.
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B08B 3/04 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
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
B08B 3/10 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration
33.
Machine for removing substrate material, for washing, and for drying parts produced by a 3-D printer
A machine for processing a part produced by a 3-D printer. The machine includes a housing having a working chamber defined therein. A support structure is disposed at the bottom of the working chamber for supporting the part. The structure has at least one opening defined therein. A spray header is disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the working chamber. A pump is configured and arranged to convey a fluid at varying pressures through the spray header. The fluid contacts the part and then passes through the opening in the structure where it flows to the bottom of the working chamber to a fluid outlet.
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
patents
