Aspects are provided herein for vehicle structures. The vehicle structures can include a caliper portion configured to apply a braking force, the caliper portion including an inner housing, an outer housing, and a bridge portion, wherein the bridge portion connects the inner housing and the outer housing. In various embodiments, the outer housing can include an inner surface configured to face a rotor, in which the inner surface includes a sweep area configured to allow the rotor to tilt during installation and removal of the rotor. The vehicle structures can further include an upright portion configured to couple to a wheel of a vehicle, the upright portion being connected to the inner housing. Further, the vehicle structure can include a stiffening portion that connects the upright portion to at least the bridge portion or the outer housing. In various embodiments, the vehicle structures can be 3D-printed.
Apparatus and methods for removing and/or destroying support structures associated with objects fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques are presented herein. Structural supports may be used during an additive manufacturing process to prevent deformation of a build piece (e.g., three dimensional (3D) printed structure). In some examples, a build piece may be manufactured such that the structural supports are internal to the completed build piece. However, removing the structural supports may reduce the weight of the build piece and reduce the amount of debris trapped within the build piece. Thus, certain aspects of the disclosure are directed to a hose including a bendable and elongated tube member as well as a fracturing member configured to fracture an internal support structure within an additively manufactured part.
B08B 9/00 - Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto
B05B 13/06 - Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups specially designed for treating the inside of hollow bodies
B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
B33Y 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
F15D 1/02 - Influencing the flow of fluids in pipes or conduits
Techniques for structurally integrated heat exchangers are presented herein. A heat exchanger in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a structure configured to enclose a volume for storing a first fluid, and to connect to a load. The heat exchanger further comprises a first and a second header first arranged in opposing inner walls of the structure. The heat exchanger further comprises one or more load-bearing struts extending to connect the first and second headers within the volume and configured to pass a second fluid through the volume for transferring heat to the first fluid, the second fluid configured to cool a different component in the vehicle.
F28D 1/02 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or mo with the heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
Alloyed metals, and techniques for creating parts from alloyed metals, are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an alloy. Such an alloy comprises aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), and titanium (Ti), wherein a structure of the alloy has an elastic modulus of at least 68 gigapascals (GPa).
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for robotic joining of components, parts, and structures are disclosed. A method in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises determining a target first position and a target second position in a reference frame, controlling robotic arms to move a first part to the target first position and a second part to the target second position, measuring the parts at the target first and second positions to obtain a measured first and second positions, performing a first operation to determine differences between the measured positions and the target positions, and when the differences exceeds desired tolerances, controlling the robotic arms to move the parts to compensate for the differences, and controlling at least the first or second robotic arm to j oin the first and second parts after the first and second operations are concluded.
The present aspects include an assembly having discretized and segmented joint architecture. The assembly comprises a first structure including an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein the outer wall and the inner wall extend from a base of the first structure, and define a groove, and a plurality of connecting walls extending between the outer wall and the inner wall such that the groove is divided into a plurality of groove segments defined by the outer wall, the inner wall, and the plurality of connecting walls. The assembly further comprises a second structure including a plurality of tongue segments which extend into the plurality of groove segments. A first adhesive is inserted into the groove, thereby bonding the plurality of tongue segments within the plurality of groove segments such that the first and second structures are fixed together.
The present aspects include an adhesive and mechanically bonded adapter or node. The adapter or node comprises a connection member, including: an outer wall extending in a first direction from a first proximal end to a first distal end; an inner wall extending within the outer wall, in the first direction, from a second proximal end to a second distal end; and a base wall extending from an inner surface of the outer wall to an outer surface of the inner wall between the first proximal end and the second proximal end; and wherein the outer wall, the inner wall, and the base wall define a space having a distance between the outer wall and the inner wall that varies in the first direction, wherein the space is configured to fixedly position an end portion of a tube inserted into the space such that the end portion is fixed to the inner surface of the outer wall and the outer surface of the inner wall.
F16L 15/00 - Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints
F16L 15/06 - Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints characterised by the shape of the screw-thread
F16L 19/00 - Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on, or into, one of the joint parts
F16L 19/02 - Pipe ends provided with collars or flanges, integral with the pipe or not, pressed together by a screwed member
F16L 19/08 - Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on, or into, one of the joint parts with metal rings which bite into the wall of the pipe
F16L 15/04 - Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints with additional sealings
F16L 15/08 - Screw-threaded joints; Forms of screw-threads for such joints with supplementary elements
F16L 19/04 - Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on, or into, one of the joint parts using additional rigid rings, sealing directly on at least one pipe end, which is flared either before or during the making of the connection
F16L 19/06 - Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on, or into, one of the joint parts in which radial clamping is obtained by wedging action on non-deformed pipe ends
F16L 19/07 - Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on, or into, one of the joint parts in which radial clamping is obtained by wedging action on non-deformed pipe ends adapted for use in socket or sleeve connections
F16L 25/04 - Construction or details of pipe joints not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups comprising a collar or ring having a threaded pin rigid with the pipe-encircling member
In the present disclosure, systems and apparatuses of a low deflection end-of-arm tooling configured to interface with robots are described. In one aspect, an apparatus may include a shaft with dimensions that include a length greater than a width and having lengthwise distal and proximal ends, and the distal end may be configured to interface with a tool. The apparatus may further includes a flange connected to the proximal end of the shaft and configured to interface with a robotic arm. The apparatus may further include a tool located at the proximal end of the shaft and configured to interface with a plurality of parts associated with vehicular assembly. The shaft may be configured to resist deformation beyond a configured amount when a respective load is applied by each part of the plurality of parts retained by the tool.
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
The instant disclosure describes example techniques for bonding multiple metal structures prior or subsequent to application of a protective coating (e.g., an electro- coating or e-coating) to the structures. In certain aspects, the structures may include one or more attachment points for attaching a single structure or multiple structures bonded together to a clamp or other suitable means for applying an electrical current to the structure(s).
B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
B32B 37/12 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by using adhesives
B32B 37/14 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers
B32B 15/08 - Layered products essentially comprising metal comprising metal as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
C09J 5/00 - Adhesive processes in general; Adhesive processes not provided for elsewhere, e.g. relating to primers
C25D 13/00 - Electrophoretic coating characterised by the process
Integrated vehicle structures are provided herein. An integrated vehicle structure can include an enclosure portion configured to house an electric motor and a plurality of extended portions extending from the enclosure portion. The enclosure portion and the plurality of extended portions can be load-bearing and configured to bear vehicle loads. The extended portions of the integrated vehicle structures can include a connection portion configured to connect with another load-bearing structure to at least receive or transmit loads. The plurality of extended portions can be configured to transfer vehicle loads along physically separate paths. A portion of the enclosure portion can define an opening configured to allow a drive shaft to connect the electric motor to a wheel. The enclosure portion can be configured with an opening for allowing the installation and removal of the electric motor.
B62D 21/00 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
B60K 1/00 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units
11.
METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR WIDE-SPECTRUM CONSUMPTION OF OUTPUT OF ATOMIZATION PROCESSES ACROSS MULTI-PROCESS AND MULTI-SCALE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MODALITIES
Methods and apparatuses for identifying an additive manufacturing process for unused output material of an atomization process are described. The method comprises determining a set of characteristics of output material that is unused in a first additive manufacturing process. The method further comprises determining a respective set of parameters associated with respective input material of each of a set of other additive manufacturing processes. The method of further comprises identifying one of the set of other additive manufacturing processes that accepts the output material as input material based on the characteristics of the output material and based on respective sets of parameters.
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 64/153 - 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
Methods for joining components, and apparatuses comprising components to be joined, are described. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first component comprising a first feature having a first surface profile, and an additively- manufactured second component comprising a second feature having a second surface profile, wherein the second surface profile is generated at least in part from the first surface profile of the first interface, such that the first surface profile is configured to mate with the second surface profile.
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B22F 3/00 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the manner of compacting or sintering; Apparatus specially adapted therefor
B29C 67/00 - Shaping techniques not covered by groups , or
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 5/10 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the special shape of the product of articles with cavities or holes, not otherwise provided for in the preceding subgroups
Methods for repurposing waste materials, such as aluminum powder, are disclosed. A method in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure may comprise collecting a material in a container, the material comprising oxidized aluminum powder, processing the material, which includes heating the material to melt at least a portion of the oxidized aluminum powder, and forming the processed material into at least one component.
C22F 1/00 - Changing the physical structure of non-ferrous metals or alloys by heat treatment or by hot or cold working
C22F 1/04 - Changing the physical structure of non-ferrous metals or alloys by heat treatment or by hot or cold working of aluminium or alloys based thereon
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
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
In the present disclosure, methods, systems, and apparatuses for in-process assembly error correction are described. In various embodiments, a target arrangement of parts of an assembly may be obtained, with the target arrangement including a first target position of a first part, a second target position of a second part, and a third target position of a third part. The first part and the second part may be robotically joined based on the first target position and the second target position to obtain a first subassembly of the assembly, with the first subassembly having a first physical arrangement that includes the physical arrangement of the first and second parts after joining. The first physical arrangement may be fitted to the target arrangement to obtain a fitted first physical arrangement. The first subassembly and the third part may be robotically joined based on the fitted first physical arrangement.
Alloy materials and three-dimensional (3-D) printed alloys are disclosed. An alloy in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises aluminum, magnesium, and silicon wherein a composition of the alloy comprises from at least 5 percent (%) by weight to 20% by weight of silicon and from at least 7% by weight to 10% by weight of magnesium.
Various aspects of robotic grippers are disclosed herein. In one aspect, a robotic gripper may include three gripper fingers arranged on a mechanical end effector, the three gripper fingers configured to translate radially when actuated to contact and align with a gripper interface located on a part to enable manipulation of the part. In various embodiments, each gripper finger may include an elongated portion configured to contact an outer surface of the gripper interface when the gripper fingers are actuated. Each gripper finger may further include a hook portion configured to contact an inner surface of the gripper interface opposing the outer surface. In various embodiments, the hook portion may include a receptacle positioned to align with a complementary protrusion on the gripper interface.
Systems and methods for curing adhesives in a robotic assembly cell are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a chassis, a gearbox, coupled to the chassis, and a radiation head, coupled to the gearbox, the radiation head emitting radiation in a direction, wherein the radiation head is moveable with respect to the chassis.
A parts table may comprise a structure including a first surface, a base including a platform affixed to the structure, and kinematic couplers secured to the base and configured to dock with complementary kinematic couplers of an alignment structure, the alignment structure being secured to a floor of an assembly cell, the first surface including a parts interface configured to hold a plurality of parts for assembly in the assembly cell, such that each part of the plurality of parts can be picked up by a robot of the assembly cell when the parts table is docked with the alignment structure, and the parts table is movable to a new location when the kinematic couplers are undocked from the alignment structure.
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
B23P 19/04 - Machines for simply fitting together or separating metal parts or objects, or metal and non-metal parts, whether or not involving some deformation; Tools or devices therefor so far as not provided for in other classes for assembling or disassembling parts
B25J 5/00 - Manipulators mounted on wheels or on carriages
B25J 11/00 - Manipulators not otherwise provided for
B62D 65/02 - Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components
Methods and apparatuses for using a structure as a sensor are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an additively -manufactured component comprising a channel, a sensor including an connection point, wherein the sensor is arranged in the channel, and an adhesive arranged in the channel, the adhesive coupling the additively-manufactured component to the sensor, such that the connection point is accessible external to the adhesive, the sensor being configured to provide a signal at the connection point, wherein the signal provides information of an applied force on the additively -manufactured component.
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B22F 3/00 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the manner of compacting or sintering; Apparatus specially adapted therefor
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 1/20 - Measuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress
21.
REMOVAL OF SUPPORTS, AND OTHER MATERIALS FROM SURFACE, AND WITHIN HOLLOW 3D PRINTED PARTS
Methods for removing support structures in additively manufactured parts are disclosed. A method in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises inserting a demolition object in a first state into a hollow portion of a 3-D printed part, breaking a support structure within the hollow portion by contact with the demolition object, changing the demolition object into a second state while the demolition object is within the hollow portion of the 3-D printed part, and removing the demolition object from the hollow portion of the 3-D printed part.
Methods and apparatuses for calibrating an end effector feature for robotic assembly are disclosed. A method in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure may comprise obtaining a first set of images of an effector feature coupled to an engagement feature of a robot, the first set of images including at least a first image of the effector feature from a first perspective and a second image of the effector feature from a second perspective, detecting an edge in each of the first image and the second image, determining a coordinate position of the effector feature in a first coordinate system based on the edge of the first image and the edge of the second image, and calibrating the robot based on the coordinate position of the effector feature in the first coordinate system.
Apparatuses for additive manufacturing producing an annular beam are disclosed herein. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an energy beam source configured to generate an energy beam and a beam shaping applicator configured to shape the energy beam into a geometry and apply the shaped energy beam to an additive manufacturing material, wherein the geometry includes a two-dimensional shape with a perimeter and a hole in the two-dimensional shape within the perimeter.
B22F 10/36 - Process control of energy beam parameters
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 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
24.
ROTATIONAL ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Systems and methods for rotational additive manufacturing are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a build floor, a depositor system configured to deposit a layer of powder onto the build floor, a motor system causing a rotational motion between the depositor system and the build floor, wherein the depositor system deposits the layer of powder during the rotational motion, a receptacle wall configured to contain the powder on the build floor, an energy beam source configured to apply an energy beam in an active area of the layer of powder to selectively fuse a portion of the powder in the active area to form a portion of a build piece and a gas flow system configured to provide a gas flow across the active area while the energy beam selectively fuses the portion of the layer of powder in the active area.
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
G05B 19/4099 - Surface or curve machining, making 3D objects, e.g. desktop manufacturing
25.
APPARATUS FOR MULTI-SCALE DIRECTED ENERGY DEPOSITION WITH INTEGRAL NON-ABRASIVE REDUCTION OF WAVINESS
Aspects are provided for additively manufacturing a component with reduced surface roughness based on direct energy deposition (DED). A DED apparatus for additively manufacturing a component includes a material supply, one or more deposition heads coupled to the material supply to deposit feedstock from the material supply, and an energy source configured to heat the feedstock as the feedstock is being deposited by the one or more deposition heads. The energy source is configured to reheat one or more portions of a surface of the component to reduce surface roughness as the component is being additively manufactured. The one or more deposition heads may also comprise a plurality of deposition heads which are sized to deposit the feedstock from the material supply at different resolutions to form a surface of the component with reduced surface roughness as the component is being additively manufactured. Thus, structural integrity may be improved.
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
Methods and apparatuses for energy unit cells for primary structures are described. The method comprises obtaining enclosure criteria of an enclosure space, wherein the enclosure space is configured to contain an energy storage device. The method further comprises obtaining a load case of a primary structure of a vehicle. The method further comprises determining a primary structure design based on the enclosure criteria and the load case, where the primary structure design incorporates the enclosure space.
B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B62D 65/00 - Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
27.
BUS BARS FOR PRINTED STRUCTURAL ELECTRIC BATTERY MODULES
Techniques for co-printing of bus bars for printed structural energy modules are presented herein. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first component configured to be a primary structure of a vehicle, the first component-co-printed with a first electrical conductive path, the first electrical conductive path configured to be connected to a second electrical conductive path of a second component of the vehicle, wherein the first electrical conductive path and the second electrical conductive path are configured to enable electricity transmission.
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
A virtual railroad of vehicles is disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, a system includes one or more passenger vehicles of a peloton, and a first engine vehicle of the peloton. The first engine vehicle communicatively connected to the one or more passenger vehicles, wherein the first engine vehicle comprises: a processor communicatively connected to a memory and is configured to receive status information of the one or more passenger vehicles, determine, based on the received status information, a set of current values for a set of vehicle attributes for each of the one or more passenger vehicles, and adjust, based on the set of current values for the set of vehicle attributes, a position of a corresponding passenger vehicle of the one or more passenger vehicles.
B60W 30/165 - Control of distance between vehicles, e.g. keeping a distance to preceding vehicle automatically following the path of a preceding lead vehicle, e.g. "electronic tow-bar"
B60W 30/16 - Control of distance between vehicles, e.g. keeping a distance to preceding vehicle
29.
MULTI-COMPONENT STRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION FOR COMBINING 3-D PRINTED AND COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE PARTS
Aspects of methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for performing multi-material selection optimization (MMSO) to provide topologically and geometrically optimized multi-component structures (MCSs) across a plurality of design inputs and constraints are proposed. In some embodiments, a 3-D print model of an object based on load case criteria is obtained. A portion of the 3-D print model is determined that can be replaced with a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) part model such that the load case criteria remain satisfied. The portion or the 3-D print model can then be replaced with the COTS part model to determine the MCS model. In various embodiments, a mesh representation of the model can be generated, and plurality of optimization techniques can be used to determine the MCS model.
G01V 3/18 - Electric or magnetic prospecting or detecting; Measuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination or deviation specially adapted for well-logging
G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
Techniques for joining nodes and subcomponents are presented herein. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a 3-D printed first part having an interconnect co-printed with the first part such that the interconnect of the first part can float within the first part, and a 3-D printed second part having an interconnect co-printed with the second part such that the interconnect of the second part can float within the second part, wherein the interconnects of the first and second parts are configured to form a connection between the first and second parts.
Techniques for rapid powder removal in a 3-D printer are disclosed, In various embodiments, the 3-D printer has a build plate for supporting a build piece. The build plate includes first structures for supporting unfused powder on a top of the build plate when the first structures are in a closed configuration. The first structures can transition to an open configuration to expose paths for allowing the unfused powder to pass through the build plate, and a second structure for preventing the build piece from passing through the build plate when the first structures are in the open configuration. In various embodiments, the unfused powder can thereafter be replaced with cool powder to assist in forming a predictable microstructure that makes up the build piece.
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 64/307 - Handling of material to be used in 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
32.
THERMAL ELEMENTS FOR DISASSEMBLY OF NODE-BASED ADHESIVELY BONDED STRUCTURES
Methods and apparatuses for disassembling components are described. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first component including a first adhesive interface, a second component including a second adhesive interface, a joint between the first and second adhesive interfaces, the joint comprising an adhesive bonding to the first adhesive interface and to the second adhesive interface, such that the first component and the second component are joined together, and at least one thermal element in the adhesive, wherein the at least one thermal element is configured to weaken the joint by heating the adhesive when an energy is applied to the thermal element.
Alloyed metals, and techniques for creating parts from alloyed metals, are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an alloy. Such an alloy comprises magnesium (Mg), zirconium (Zr), manganese (Mn), and aluminum (Al), wherein inclusion of the Mg, the Zr, and the Mn produce a structure of the alloy, the structure having a yield strength of at least 80 Megapascals (MPa) and having an elongation of at least 10 percent (%).
Alloy materials and three-dimensional (3-D) printed alloys are disclosed. An alloy in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises cobalt, titanium, silicon, magnesium, zinc, manganese, zirconium, and aluminum, wherein a structure of the alloy as printed by a 3D printing process has a yield strength of at least 300 Megapascals and an elongation of at least 4 percent.
C22C 1/04 - Making non-ferrous alloys by powder metallurgy
C22C 21/02 - Alloys based on aluminium with silicon as the next major constituent
C22C 21/06 - Alloys based on aluminium with magnesium as the next major constituent
C22C 21/08 - Alloys based on aluminium with magnesium as the next major constituent with silicon
C22C 21/10 - Alloys based on aluminium with zinc as the next major constituent
C22C 32/00 - Non-ferrous alloys containing at least 5% by weight but less than 50% by weight of oxides, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides or other metal compounds, e.g. oxynitrides, sulfides, whether added as such or formed in situ
Alloy materials and three-dimensional (3-D) printed alloys are disclosed. An alloy in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises magnesium, manganese, silicon, and aluminum (Al), wherein a structure of the alloy as printed by a 3D printing process has a yield strength of at least 230 Megapascals and an elongation of at least 9 percent.
C22C 1/04 - Making non-ferrous alloys by powder metallurgy
C22C 21/02 - Alloys based on aluminium with silicon as the next major constituent
C22C 21/06 - Alloys based on aluminium with magnesium as the next major constituent
C22C 21/08 - Alloys based on aluminium with magnesium as the next major constituent with silicon
C22C 32/00 - Non-ferrous alloys containing at least 5% by weight but less than 50% by weight of oxides, carbides, borides, nitrides, silicides or other metal compounds, e.g. oxynitrides, sulfides, whether added as such or formed in situ
An autonomous delivery vehicle (ADV) may include multiple storage compartments, and each storage compartment of the plurality of storage compartments has a respective storage space and is associated with a respective delivery location. The respective storage space of each storage compartment may store one or more items. Each storage compartment may transition from a first state to a second state, and the first state may prevent access to the storage space of the respective storage compartment and the second state may enable access to the respective storage space of the respective storage compartment. The ADV may further include a receiver configured to receive first information from a computing system remote and external to the first ADV, and the first ADV may autonomously travel to one or more locations based on the first information.
Apparatuses and methods are provided for joining at least two structural components. A receiving structure including a mating profile having one or more tongues and grooves may be configured to contain at least one adhesive. A joint feature of a node structure may include a mating feature with a converging profile configured to mate with the mating profile of the receiving structure. One or more tongues and grooves may be present at the joint feature and configured to mate with corresponding tongues and grooves of the receiving structure.
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
B62D 21/02 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted comprising longitudinally or transversely arranged frame members
B62D 23/00 - Combined superstructure and frame, i.e. monocoque constructions
B62D 27/00 - Connections between superstructure sub-units
38.
DIRECT INJECT JOINT ARCHITECTURE ENABLED BY QUICK CURE ADHESIVE
Methods and apparatuses for assembling components are described. An apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first structure having a first tongue, a second tongue, and a third tongue, the second tongue being between the first tongue and the third tongue, a second structure having a first groove, a second groove, and a third groove, the second groove being between the first groove and the third groove, a first adhesive, coupled to the first tongue and the first groove and coupled to the third tongue and the third groove when the first structure is coupled to the second structure, and a second adhesive coupled to the second tongue and the second groove when the first structure is coupled to the second structure, wherein the first adhesive is injected into the first groove and the third groove and the second adhesive is injected into the second groove.
Aspects are provided for additively manufacturing a component based on direct energy deposition (DED). An apparatus may include a DED system configured to additively manufacture a part. The apparatus may further include a forging tool configured to forge a region of the part during the additive manufacturing. In various embodiments, a solid body is used opposite to the forging tool during the forgery. For example, the solid body may include a mandrel against which the region of the part is forged.
Ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) of surface members for a box-like part such as a crash structure or load-bearing structure in a vehicle is disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, a method for building a box-like part includes 3-D printing separately, using UAM, the one or more flat surface members in a horizontal plane relative to a print substrate. The method further includes assembling together the surface members at or proximate respective edges thereof to form the box-like part, In some embodiments, protrusions and other features are added to the surface members. In embodiments involving crash structures, trenches are machined into the inner surfaces to enable tailored deformation of the crash structure during an impact event.
B23K 20/10 - Non-electric welding by applying impact or other pressure, with or without the application of heat, e.g. cladding or plating making use of vibrations, e.g. ultrasonic welding
B29C 65/08 - Joining of preformed parts; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using ultrasonic vibrations
B29C 64/147 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using sheet material, e.g. laminated object manufacturing [LOM] or laminating sheet material precut to local cross sections of the 3D object
B32B 37/00 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding
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
Integration of drive elements with an unsprung structure is disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, a motor includes a stator configured to mount to an unsprung structure of a wheeled vehicle through at least a damper or a spring. The motor further includes a rotor configured to drive a wheel of the vehicle.
A resin composition can includes a first isocyanurate component and a first bonding component bonded to the first isocyanurate component. The first bonding component can be configured to bond to a second bonding component that is bonded to a second isocyanurate component. The first bonding component can be configured to bond to the second bonding component based upon an application of an initiator to the resin composition. In this way, the first isocyanurate component can be coupled to the second isocyanurate component. The resin composition can be either in a pre-cur ed state in which the first isocyanurate component is not coupled to the second isocyanurate component or in a post-cured state in which at least a portion of the first isocyanurate component is coupled to at least a portion of the second isocyanurate component.
Aspects for implementing 3-D printed metrology feature geometries and detection are disclosed. The apparatus may a measurement device for a 3-D printed component. The component may include a plurality of printed-in metrology features arranged at different feature locations on a surface of the component. The measurement device can be configured to detect the feature locations of the printed-in metrology features and to determine a position or an orientation of the component based on the detected feature locations. In various embodiments, the metrology feature may be a protruding or recessed spherical portion, with the corresponding feature location at the center of the sphere.
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
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
An apparatus for assembling structures is provided. The apparatus includes an assembly robot and a mobile unit coupled to or integrated with the assembly robot. A controller coupled to the assembly robot and the mobile unit can selectively operate the assembly robot and the mobile unit based at least in part on an assembly being produced, such that the controller selectively operates the mobile unit when at least one of the assembly being produced and a sequence of assembly of is altered.
B23P 19/04 - Machines for simply fitting together or separating metal parts or objects, or metal and non-metal parts, whether or not involving some deformation; Tools or devices therefor so far as not provided for in other classes for assembling or disassembling parts
B25J 11/00 - Manipulators not otherwise provided for
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control (DNC), flexible manufacturing systems (FMS), integrated manufacturing systems (IMS), computer integrated manufacturing (CIM)
45.
METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR BALL MILLING TO PRODUCE POWDER FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
Methods and apparatuses for producing spherical metallic powders through continuous ball milling are described. The apparatus comprises a comminution component including an inlet to receive a metallic material at a first region within the comminution component and an outlet to dispense the metallic powder from a second region within the comminution component. The apparatus further comprises a plurality of grinding components to grind the metallic material, the plurality of grinding components being arranged within the comminution component. The apparatus comprises a drive component, connected with the comminution component, to induce movement of the metallic material and the plurality of grinding components within the comminution component such that the metallic material is fragmented through contact with the plurality of grinding components at the first region and an external surface of the fragmented metallic material is altered at the second region to produce the metallic powder.
B01J 2/00 - Processes or devices for granulating materials, in general; Rendering particulate materials free flowing in general, e.g. making them hydrophobic
B22F 1/00 - Metallic powder; Treatment of metallic powder, e.g. to facilitate working or to improve properties
B22F 1/02 - Special treatment of metallic powder, e.g. to facilitate working, to improve properties; Metallic powders per se, e.g. mixtures of particles of different composition comprising coating of the powder
In various aspects, 3D printers, and sensor systems coupled to or integrated with the 3D printers are disclosed. The sensor systems may include image and second sensors for detecting potential defects or print artifacts. During printing, an energy beam source forms a weld pool by melting selected regions of print material, which solidifies to produce the build piece. The image sensor may image an area including the weld pool to determine a landing location of matter ejected during the heating of print material to form the weld pool. The second sensor may detect a defect in the build piece based on the determination of the landing location. Print operation may be suspended while the sensor data is used to repair the defect, after which 3D printing resumes. In this way, for example, high quality build pieces can be produced with reduced post-processing times, and hence a higher manufacturing throughput.
B29C 67/00 - Shaping techniques not covered by groups , or
B22F 3/00 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the manner of compacting or sintering; Apparatus specially adapted therefor
47.
REAL TIME QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
In various aspects, 3D printers and recoaters incorporate sensor systems coupled to or integrated with the 3D printers. The sensor systems may include eddy current sensors and other sensors configured to measure an electromagnetic characteristic of the build piece. A three-dimensional (3-D) printer in one aspect includes a depositor configured to deposit metal, an energy beam source configured to selectively melt the metal to form a portion of a build piece, and a sensor configured to move relative to a surface of the print area and to measure an electromagnetic characteristic of the portion of the print area. The measured data can be used to detect defects and other information about the build piece that can be used to fix the defects or enhance the build piece geometry during the printing.
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 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]
Having a flexible robotic system layout that allows for the assembly of any structure creates a challenge in finding an optimal sequence of assembly. In some examples, the optimal sequence of assembly may provide the highest robot utilization, the shortest cycle time, the greatest assembly accuracy of the final assembly, or any combination thereof. The processing system disclosed herein may be configured to generate assembly sequences for a plurality of parts and determine an optimal assembly sequence from the generated assembly sequences by comparing the generated assembly sequences.
B23P 19/04 - Machines for simply fitting together or separating metal parts or objects, or metal and non-metal parts, whether or not involving some deformation; Tools or devices therefor so far as not provided for in other classes for assembling or disassembling parts
B23P 19/08 - Machines for placing washers, circlips, or the like on bolts or other members
B25J 9/08 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by modular constructions
Part retention features are disclosed for securing additively manufactured (AM) parts or for securing an AM part with another component, such as a node, panel, tube, extrusion, and the like, while an adhesive is being applied and/or while the adhesive is undergoing expansion due to a subsequent curing process. The retention features described herein can be used in the context of one or more AM parts such that the elements used to house the retention features (e.g., grooves, apertures, elastic elements, etc.) can advantageously be co-printed with the AM part, thereby removing a manufacturing step. The retention features also can be made with flatter profiles than existing solutions, making the overall structure smaller and less cumbersome to assemble.
Retention features are provided for joining at least two structural components in a fixtureless assembly system. A first structure including a groove may be configured to contain at least one adhesive, and a second structure may include a tongue configured to contact the at least one adhesive to join the first and second structures. The first structure may also include at least one window that receives electromagnetic (EM) radiation from an EM radiation source into the groove. The at least one adhesive is configured to cure at a first rate upon exposure to one of time or heating, and the at least one adhesive is configured to cure at a second rate faster than the first rate upon exposure to the EM radiation.
In an aspect of the disclosure, a first manufacturing cell for assembling a structure is provided. The first manufacturing cell for assembling the structure may include a plurality of first robots positioned around a common point in a first configuration, and a plurality of second robots positioned around the common point in a second configuration, the second configuration being closer to the common point than the first configuration. One of the plurality of first robots is configured to translate towards and away from the common point to interact with one of the plurality of second robots or one of the plurality of second robots is configured to translate towards and away from the common point to interact with one of the plurality of first robots.
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
B22C 23/00 - Tools; Devices not mentioned before for moulding
Adaptable manufacturing systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed. An apparatus for manufacturing a product in accordance with the present disclosure may include a design apparatus, an assembly apparatus, and a control apparatus, coupled to the design apparatus and the assembly apparatus. The control apparatus receives input information from the design apparatus and the assembly apparatus. The control apparatus provides output information for altering at least one parameter used by at least one of the design apparatus and the assembly apparatus in the manufacture of the product.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
53.
CUSTOM FORMED PANELS FOR TRANSPORT STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR ASSEMBLING SAME
Techniques for providing custom formed panels for transport structures including vehicles and aircraft are disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, a panel for a transport structure includes a first face sheet, a second face sheet arranged opposite the first face sheet, the second face sheet comprising a different geometrical profile than the first face sheet to define a space between the first and second face sheets having a variable thickness, a core configured to occupy the space. In another aspect, a node can be additively manufactured to form the custom panels by engaging opposing face sheets. The node has an inlet port for providing a foam-like substance into the space between the face sheets to thereafter solidify into a core.
B32B 3/00 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form
B32B 3/02 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions
B32B 3/06 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions for attaching the product to another member, e.g. to a support
B32B 3/12 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a discontinuous layer, i.e. apertured or formed of separate pieces of material characterised by a layer of regularly-arranged cells whether integral or formed individually or by conjunction of separate strips, e.g. honeycomb structure
B32B 3/18 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a discontinuous layer, i.e. apertured or formed of separate pieces of material characterised by an internal layer formed of separate pieces of material
B32B 3/26 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids
E04C 2/24 - Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by specified materials of foamed products laminated and composed of materials covered by two or more of groups , ,
E04C 2/28 - Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by specified materials composed of materials covered by two or more of groups , , , or of materials covered by one of these groups with a material not specified in one of these groups combinations of materials fully covered by groups and
E04C 2/284 - Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by specified materials composed of materials covered by two or more of groups , , , or of materials covered by one of these groups with a material not specified in one of these groups at least one of the materials being insulating
54.
METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR SEALING MECHANISMS FOR REALIZING ADHESIVE CONNECTIONS WITH ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED COMPONENTS
A node may be additively manufactured. The node may include a first surface and a second surface, and the second surface may bound a recess of the node. A structure may be inserted into the recess. A sealing member extend away from the second surface and contact the structure, such that a sealed space may be created between the node and the structure. An adhesive may be applied in the sealed space to at least partially attach the structure to the node.
B22F 5/10 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the special shape of the product of articles with cavities or holes, not otherwise provided for in the preceding subgroups
Techniques for dehumidifying powder used as print material in a powder bed fusion (PBF) three-dimensional (3-D) system are disclosed. A hopper includes one or more ultrasonic transducers (UTs) positioned at strategic locations. When activated, the UTs use sound pressure at ultrasonic frequencies to agitate the powder particles held in the hopper. The movement of the particles drives moisture trapped between the particles into one or more desiccants. In various embodiments, the desiccants may be supported by desiccators suspended in the powder, such as via the casing of the hopper. In other embodiments, the desiccants may be desiccant bags provided in a desiccant insert. The moisture accumulates in the desiccants. Among other advantages, no separate thermal source is needed to dry the powder, which can be provided directly to the PBF 3-D system via the re-coater for depositing layers to form a build piece.
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
An exhaust header with an integrated heat shield is disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, the exhaust header comprises a body including an inner wall that defines a cavity through which exhaust gases can be routed. An outer wall is integrally formed with, and radially offset from, the inner wall to define an air gap through which an airflow can be received at an input of the exhaust header and passed along a periphery of the body to collect thermal radiation and route it through an outlet duct. In some embodiments, the exhaust header is coupled to a turbocharger, which itself is coupled to an exhaust outlet of the body and separately, the air gap for effecting an airflow about the turbocharger's perimeter. Further, in various embodiments, the exhaust header is additively manufactured to produce the integrated heat shield and other header components.
F01N 13/14 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus characterised by constructional features having thermal insulation
F01N 3/02 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for cooling, or for removing solid constituents of, exhaust
F01N 13/10 - Other arrangements or adaptations of exhaust conduits of exhaust manifolds
Multifunction noise suppression and crash structures are disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, the multifunction structure includes a body, inlet and outlet pipes, and a plurality of walls within the body that bound resonator cells and that are configured to suppress exhaust noise passing through the resonator cells from the inlet to the outlet pipes. The structure may be positioned between crash rails at the rear of the vehicle and between the engine and bumper. The walls may be generally aligned with, or near, the predicted impact direction and they may crumple in a controlled manner during an impact. In various embodiments the structure is 3D printed to enable construction of a wide diversity of geometric topologies and to minimize mass.
Techniques for cleaning a print chamber using a gas exchange structure and a re-coater are introduced. The gas exchange structure is coupled to the coater, and the two move in a same direction to benefit from the gas flow. In an embodiment, the gas exchange structure includes a manifold. Further, in an embodiment, a travelling wall may be coupled to a longitudinal axis of the re-coater in order to keep separate the clean chamber from the dirty chamber. The result is that gas contaminants caused largely by the fusion and melting processes are removed from the powder bed and chamber at each cycle, and the resulting 3-D produced component maintains a very high quality for a long period of time.
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
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
59.
3-D PRINTED CHASSIS STRUCTURE WITH SELF-SUPPORTING RIBS
Self-supporting 3-D printed chassis structures are disclosed. Self-supporting ribs are selectively printed to walls of the structure to meet desired dynamic stiffness targets while maintaining a reduced mass. The self-supporting ribs can be used as both support structures (e.g., for outer walls) during 3-D printing and as stiffening structures when the chassis structure is in operation. In an embodiment, the chassis structure is printed such that no support structures are needed. Topology optimization can enable remaining unneeded internal ribs or supports to be removed, and a high inner spatial volume between ribs can be maintained to make maximum use of the part. In various embodiments, wall thicknesses can be maintained at or below 1-2 millimeters, which further reduces mass.
B60R 21/00 - Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
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 5/10 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the special shape of the product of articles with cavities or holes, not otherwise provided for in the preceding subgroups
B62D 65/02 - Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components
Aspects are provided for a plurality of electron beam sources for powder bed fusion (PBF) systems. A PBF apparatus may include a structure that supports a layer of feedstock, and a plurality of electron beam sources that each generate an electron beam to fuse one or more areas of the layer of feedstock. The PBF apparatus may also include a plurality of deflectors that individually steer the electron beams to concurrently fuse multiple areas of the layer of feedstock. The plurality of electron beam sources may be scalable to accommodate structures of different sizes.
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
61.
POWDER BED FUSION RE-COATERS WITH HEAT SOURCE FOR THERMAL MANAGEMENT
Techniques for pre-heating the powders of layer deposited on the powder bed during a 3-D print process conducted by a 3-D printer are disclosed. A re-coater includes a heat source that pre-heats the deposited layer as a leveling member of the re-coater smooths the layer onto the powder bed. In some embodiments, the re-coater reheats the powder bed following the selective fusing of a layer by an energy beam source. The consistent pre-heating and re-heating of the powder directly on the surface of the powder bed maximally reduces damage, cracks, dimensional flaws, and other artifacts created by excessive thermal gradients in the case where heat is not used.
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 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
A computing system may direct a first robotic arm to a first position based on a first set of coordinates. The computing system may cause the first robotic arm to engage with a first structure based on the first position of the first robotic arm. Further, the computing system may direct the first robotic arm to a second position based on a second set of coordinates such that the first structure is brought within a joining proximity of a second structure without a fixture retaining the first structure and without a fixture retaining the second structure, wherein the first structure is configured to be joined with the second structure when the first and second structures are within the joining proximity, the joining proximity being a proximity at which the first and second structures can be joined together.
B23P 19/04 - Machines for simply fitting together or separating metal parts or objects, or metal and non-metal parts, whether or not involving some deformation; Tools or devices therefor so far as not provided for in other classes for assembling or disassembling parts
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
63.
WISHBONE STYLE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING SAME
Wishbone-style control arm assemblies for a vehicle and methods for assembling the same are disclosed. A control arm assembly includes a first elongated segment having a first connection feature at one end of the first segment. The control arm assembly includes a second elongated segment having a second connection feature at one end of the second segment. Opposite longitudinal ends of the first and second segments may include third and fourth connection features, respectively, that are configured to interface with the vehicle. The first and second connection features are aligned to form an aperture that extends at least partially through the first and segment connection features, through which a bushing is press-fit and then swaged to form a strong connection that reduces or eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners or adhesive bonds. The bushing connection independently enables the control arm to maintain a secure connection between segments during operation of the control arm when assembled in the vehicle.
According to some configurations of the present disclosure, an alloy may include a composition that includes magnesium (Mg) that is approximately 1 to 5% by weight of the composition; silicon (Si) that is approximately 1 to 3% by weight of the composition; cobalt (Co) that is approximately 0.2 to 1% by weight of the composition; and aluminum (Al) that is a balance of the composition. In one configuration, the composition may further include one or more of nickel (Ni); titanium (Ti); zinc (Zn); zirconium (Zr); and/or manganese (Mn).
C23C 10/30 - Solid state diffusion of only metal elements or silicon into metallic material surfaces using solids, e.g. powders, pastes using a layer of powder or paste on the surface
According to some configurations of the present disclosure, an alloy may include a composition that includes magnesium (Mg) that is approximately 5 to 12% by weight of the composition; manganese (Mn) that is approximately 0.1 to 2% by weight of the composition; and silicon (Si) that is approximately 0.3 to 3% by weight of the composition; and aluminum (Al) that is a balance of the composition. In one configuration, the composition may further include one or more of iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), chromium (Cr), and/or yttrium (Y).
C23C 10/30 - Solid state diffusion of only metal elements or silicon into metallic material surfaces using solids, e.g. powders, pastes using a layer of powder or paste on the surface
In the present disclosure, systems and apparatuses for stabilizing a metrology device may be provided. The metrology device may be connected with a metrology apparatus that may prevent and/or correct for unintended movement of the metrology device. The metrology apparatus may include a base plate having a top surface and a bottom surface, and the base plate may include a plurality of holes from the top surface to the bottom surface. The metrology apparatus may further include a plurality of suspension rods, and a distal end of a respective suspension rod may be positioned through a respective hole such that a first portion of the distal end is disposed on the top surface of the base plate and a second portion of the distal end is disposed on the bottom surface of the base plate. The metrology device may be connected to the bottom surface of the base plate such that at least a portion of an assembly cell is within a field of view of the metrology device.
F16F 9/10 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using a fluid of which the nature is immaterial
67.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HIGH ACCURACY FIXTURELESS ASSEMBLY
An approach to positioning one or more robotic arms in an assembly system may be described herein. For example, a system for robotic assembly may include a first robot, a second robot, and a control unit. The control unit may be configured to receive a first target location proximal to a second target location. The locations may indicate where the robots are to position the features. The control unit may be configured to calculate a first calculated location of the first feature of the first subcomponent, measure a first measured location of the first feature of the first subcomponent, determine a first transformation matrix between the first calculated location and the first measured location, reposition the first feature of the first subcomponent to the first target location using the first robot, the repositioning based on the first transformation matrix.
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
B23P 19/04 - Machines for simply fitting together or separating metal parts or objects, or metal and non-metal parts, whether or not involving some deformation; Tools or devices therefor so far as not provided for in other classes for assembling or disassembling parts
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control (DNC), flexible manufacturing systems (FMS), integrated manufacturing systems (IMS), computer integrated manufacturing (CIM)
68.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING ONE OR MORE ROBOTIC APPARATUSES
An approach to positioning one or more robotic arms in an assembly system may be described herein. For example, an apparatus may include a first robotic arm having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end may be configured for movement and the proximal end may secure the first robotic arm. The apparatus may further include a camera connected with the distal end of the first robotic arm. The camera may be configured to capture image data of a marker connected with a second robotic arm and provide the image data to a computer. The computer may generate a set of instructions for the first robotic arm based on the image data of the marker. The movement of the first robotic arm may be caused by the computer according to the generated set of instructions.
Apparatuses for in situ thermal treatment for PBF systems are provided. An apparatus for a PBF-based 3-D printer can include a heating element for heating a gas, wherein the heated gas is delivered via at least one port of the 3-D printer to conduct heat treatment on a build piece during printing. An apparatus for a PBF-based 3-D printer can include a temperature-regulating element for changing a temperature of a gas, at least one channel for delivering the gas to a plurality of ports, and a controller for determining gas temperatures and durations of application of the gas via different ones of the plurality of the ports.
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 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
In the present disclosure, systems and apparatuses for enabling modular attachment of a plurality of devices are described. In one aspect, an apparatus may include a center rail having a distal end and a proximal end. The apparatus may further include a first flange coupled with the proximal end and a second flange coupled with the distal end. The apparatus may further include a collar disposed around the center rail and between the first flange and the second flange. The apparatus may further include at least one arm connected with the collar, and the at least one arm may be configured to connect with a modular attachment.
B25J 19/00 - Accessories fitted to manipulators, e.g. for monitoring, for viewing; Safety devices combined with or specially adapted for use in connection with manipulators
Aspects are provided relating to additive manufacturing. In one aspect, an apparatus for producing a three-dimensional (3D) structure is described that includes a build chamber having a top portion with windows through which radiative energy from one or more sources is provided to the build chamber to produce the 3D structure, and one or more manifolds disposed within the build chamber. The manifolds are configured to perform a gas exchange within the build chamber, and each manifold is positioned above a region where envelopes of radiative energy from the one or more sources overlap. In another aspect, the manifolds are moved to a first position adjacent to the top portion of the build chamber during a first mode of operation and moved to a second position away from the top portion of the build chamber during a second mode of operation.
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
72.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADHESIVE-BASED PART RETENTION FEATURES IN ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED STRUCTURES
Systems and methods for adhesive-based part retention features in additively manufactured structures are disclosed. A structure includes a first AM part configured to connect to a second part via a primary connection applied to an interface between the first AM part and the second part. The structure includes at least one retention element including a secondary connection. The secondary connection includes a first adhesive configured to secure the first AM part and the second part. The secondary connection may be located to provide a connection between the first AM part and the second part.
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 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
73.
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING OPTIMIZED PANELS AND OTHER COMPOSITE STRUCTURES
The disclosure relates to additively manufactured (AM) composite structures such as panels for use in transport structures or other mechanized assemblies. An AM core may be optimized for an intended application of a panel. In various embodiments, one or more values such as strength, stiffness, density, energy absorption, ductility, etc. may be optimized in a single AM core to vary across the AM core in one or more directions for supporting expected load conditions. In an embodiment, the expected load conditions may include forces applied to the AM core or corresponding panel from different directions in up to three dimensions. Where the structure is a panel, face sheets may be affixed to respective sides of the core. The AM core may be a custom honeycomb structure. In other embodiments, the face sheets may have custom 3-D profiles formed traditionally or through additive manufacturing to enable structural panels with complex profiles. The AM core may include a protrusion to provide fixturing features to enable external connections. In other embodiments, inserts, fasteners, or internal channels may be co-printed with the core. In still other embodiments, the AM core may be used in a composite structure such as, for example a rotor blade or a vehicle component.
B22F 3/00 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the manner of compacting or sintering; Apparatus specially adapted therefor
B32B 1/00 - Layered products essentially having a general shape other than plane
B32B 3/00 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form
B32B 3/06 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions for attaching the product to another member, e.g. to a support
B32B 3/10 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a discontinuous layer, i.e. apertured or formed of separate pieces of material
B32B 3/12 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a discontinuous layer, i.e. apertured or formed of separate pieces of material characterised by a layer of regularly-arranged cells whether integral or formed individually or by conjunction of separate strips, e.g. honeycomb structure
B32B 3/26 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids
B32B 5/00 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer
74.
APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED STRUCTURES WITH AUGMENTED ENERGY ABSORPTION PROPERTIES
Apparatus and methods for additively manufactured structures with augmented energy absorption properties are presented herein. Three dimensional (3D) additive manufacturing structures may be constructed with spatially dependent features to create crash components. When used in the construction of a transport vehicle, the crash components with spatially dependent additively manufactured features may enhance and augment crash energy absorption. This in turn absorbs and re-distributes more crash energy away from the vehicle's occupant(s), thereby improving the occupants' safety.
3-D build jobs having surrogate supports, 3-D printers using surrogate supports, and techniques to support vulnerable regions of build pieces using surrogate supports are disclosed. The surrogate supports are generated in a first material configuration and are offset via a gap from the vulnerable regions. The gap comprises a second material configuration, such as loose or partially fused powder on which the build piece can be supported during 3-D printing. In alternative embodiments, the gap instead includes thin manual ties or a solid body using material that is stronger but more amenable to breaking off without damaging the build piece. Post-processing steps are dramatically reduced as the surrogate supports and gaps facilitate virtually error-free separation from the build piece. In an embodiment, the surrogate supports include a support structure extending to a fixed base underneath, the fixed base being a build plate or a global surrogate.
An additively manufactured (AM) hybrid composite structure is disclosed. The AM hybrid composite structure includes a first portion and a second portion. The second portion includes one or more AM elements which are configured to enable integration of the second portion with the first portion to form an integrated component including both the second portion and the first portion. A method of manufacturing a hybrid composite structure is disclosed. The method includes manufacturing a first portion, and additively manufacturing a second portion. The step of additively manufacturing the second portion includes co-printing one or more AM elements. The method further includes using the one or more AM elements as a part of a tool to integrate the first portion with the second portion, and forming an integrated component including both the first portion and the second portion.
A buffer block apparatus for securing a node may be described. The buffer block apparatus may include a first surface having disposed thereon at least one first zero-point feature configured for a first zero-point interface with a robotic assembly apparatus; and a second surface, different from the first surface, configured to connect with a first surface of a node and form a first rigid connection between the buffer block apparatus and the node, wherein the buffer block apparatus provides at least one reference coordinate system with respect to the node.
B23P 11/00 - Connecting or disconnecting metal parts or objects by metal-working techniques, not otherwise provided for
B62D 27/02 - Connections between superstructure sub-units rigid
B62D 65/00 - Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
Systems, apparatus, and method for manufacturing a structure are disclosed. The structure includes a first portion, a second portion, and a structural joint. The apparatus is configured to receive instructions for printing the structural joint. The instructions are based on a data model of the structural joint. The apparatus is also configured to receive the first portion and the second portion, the first portion having a first conical tip and the second portion having a second conical tip. The apparatus is further configured to receive material. Additionally, the apparatus is configured to print the structural joint based on the instructions. The printing may include spray forming the material to produce the structural joint. The structural joint connects the first portion to the second portion.
C23C 24/04 - Impact or kinetic deposition of particles
B22F 3/115 - Manufacture of workpieces or articles from metallic powder characterised by the manner of compacting or sintering; Apparatus specially adapted therefor by spraying molten metal, i.e. spray sintering, spray casting
B29C 41/08 - Coating a former, core or other substrate by spraying or fluidisation, e.g. spraying powder
Systems, apparatus, and method for manufacturing are disclosed. In an aspect, the apparatus may be a cold-spray nozzle. The cold-spray nozzle may include a variable diameter convergent part. The cold-spray nozzle may also include a variable diameter divergent part. The variable diameter divergent part may form a diffuser. Additionally, The cold-spray nozzle may include a ring portion. The ring portion may couple the variable diameter convergent part and the variable diameter divergent part. Additionally, the ring portion may control the opening to the diffuser.
A62C 31/03 - Nozzles specially adapted for fire-extinguishing adjustable, e.g. from spray to jet or vice-versa
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
F02K 1/06 - Varying effective area of jet pipe or nozzle
F02K 1/12 - Varying effective area of jet pipe or nozzle by means of pivoted flaps
80.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING-ENABLED PLATFORM FOR MODULAR CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES USING DEFINITION NODES
A platform for building a plurality of vehicle types is disclosed. In an embodiment, a facility may include a processing system for designing a plurality of definition nodes for a vehicle and identifying a relative position for each definition node. Based on the design, the internal volume and other vehicle parameters can be determined. The facility includes a 3-D printer for additively manufacturing the definition nodes. In an embodiment, a plurality of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) parts are acquired and the definition nodes are designed to interface with the COTS parts. The facility may also include a station, or primary location where the major portions of the vehicle are assembled. In another embodiment, multiple such geographically-distributed facilities can be used, such that one facility can manufacture a desired vehicle type on behalf of another facility, e.g., in the event of an overflow.
B62D 65/00 - Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
An end effector for interfacing with a nozzle is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first end, which includes a receptacle. The end effector comprises one or more retention features positioned along a perimeter of the receptacle, where each of the one or more retention features is movable between a first position and a second position. Each of the one or more retention features is configured to lock the nozzle by securing onto a corresponding one of the one or more nozzle retention features in the first position, and to release the nozzle in the second position. The end effector may further comprise one or more actuators and a first channel, which includes a first inlet and a first outlet. A method of using an end effector to interface with a nozzle is also disclosed.
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed parts; Apparatus 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
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
B33Y 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
Techniques for using additively manufactured structures for doors are disclosed. These structures may include complex features and interfaces to enable connections to various systems in a door. The AM structure can include fasteners, hinges, hinge attachments and other structures which can advantageously be printed with the AM door structures.
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 65/48 - Joining of preformed parts; Apparatus therefor using adhesives
83.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INJECTING FLUIDS IN NODE BASED CONNECTIONS
An additively manufactured node is disclosed. A node is an additively manufactured (AM) structure that includes a feature, e.g., a socket, a receptacle, etc., for accepting another structure, e.g., a tube, a panel, etc. An additively manufactured node can include a surface with an opening to a feed channel through the node. A second surface of the node can include with a plurality of openings to an array of outlet channels. Each of the outlet channels can extend through the node and can connect to the feed channel. Tortuous paths can be used between channels created by the node surface and adjacent structures as well as node interior surfaces. These tortuous paths can be tuned to allow for optimal fluid flow processes.
A self-supporting lattice structure is provided with high strength-to-weight ratios. In an aspect, an additively manufactured structure is provided that includes a self-supporting lattice structure formed by a plurality of unit cells. Moreover, each unit cell includes a symmetrical frame with voids or cutouts extending through each of the side surfaces of the symmetrical frame to define a negative space therein. The negative space substantially reduces the density and overall weight of the self-supporting lattice structure.
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
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
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
85.
MULTI-CIRCUIT SINGLE PORT DESIGN IN ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED NODE
A node including a single port for bonding to various components in a transport structure is disclosed. In an aspect, the node includes an inlet aperture disposed inside the port. The inlet aperture is configured to inject a fluid into at least one region to be filled by the fluid. For example, the fluid can be an adhesive. In another aspect of the disclosure, a nozzle to be interfaced with a single port node is provided. The nozzle includes a first channel to inject the adhesive. The nozzle may further include a second channel and a third channel. In another aspect of the disclosure, a method of using a single port node is provided.
A system and method is provided for manufacturing a composite structure. In an exemplary aspect, the system includes multiple flexible tooling plates that are interlocked to each other to form a tooling surface for forming a composite structure to be manufactured. Moreover, the system includes an actuator array connected to the flexible plates and that can move the flexible plates relative to each other to adjust a contour of the tooling surface to correspond to a design contour of the composite structure to be manufactured.
G05B 19/4097 - 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 using design data to control NC machines, e.g. CAD/CAM
G05B 19/4099 - Surface or curve machining, making 3D objects, e.g. desktop manufacturing
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control (DNC), flexible manufacturing systems (FMS), integrated manufacturing systems (IMS), computer integrated manufacturing (CIM)
An additively manufactured node is disclosed. A node is an additively manufactured (AM) structure that includes a feature, e.g., a socket, a channel, etc., for accepting another structure, e.g., a tube, a panel, etc. The node can include a node surface of a receptacle extending into the node. The receptacle can receive a structure, and a seal interface on the node surface can seat a seal member between the node surface and the structure to create an adhesive region between the node and the structure, the adhesive region being bounded by the node surface, the structure, and the seal member. The node can also include two channels connecting an exterior surface of the node to the adhesive region. In this way, adhesive can be injected into the adhesive region between the node and the structure, and the adhesive can be contained by the seal member.
Manufacturing cell based vehicle manufacturing systems and methods for a wide variety of vehicles are disclosed. In one aspect, a manufacturing cell configured for assembling a frame of a vehicle is disclosed. The manufacturing cell includes a positioner, a robot carrier and a robot. The positioner is configured to receive a fixture table configured to hold the frame. The robot carrier includes a vertical lift. The robot is configured to assemble the frame. The positioner is configured to support the frame in a vertical position during an assembling process. In another aspect of the disclosure, a system for manufacturing a vehicle based on a manufacturing cell is disclosed. In another aspect of the disclosure, a method for manufacturing a vehicle based on a manufacturing cell is disclosed.
One aspect is an apparatus including an additively manufactured component including a surface with an end effector feature, the end effector feature co-additively manufactured with the additively manufactured component and configured to be gripped by a corresponding end effector on a robot. In an aspect, the end effector feature includes a recess in the surface. In another aspect, the recess includes an angled face. In an aspect, the recess has a teardrop shape. An aspect further includes an identification feature. In an aspect, the end effector feature includes a plurality of recesses in the surface. In another aspect, the end effector feature enables a 3-point kinematic self-aligning positive control lock.
Systems and methods of co-printing a unitary hinge are provided. The unitary hinge may be co-printed using an additive manufacturing process. The unitary hinge includes a hinge pin that is substantially cylindrical in shape. The unitary hinge also includes a knuckle which surrounds a portion of the hinge pin and is configured to be manipulated about the hinge pin. The hinge pin is fabricated in situ with the knuckle such that further assembly is unnecessary. The unitary hinge may also include retention mechanism to retain the hinge within the knuckle without substantially restricting the knuckle from being rotated about the hinge pin. The unitary hinge may further be configured with a fluid port which may, for example, be used to provide a lubricant to an area between the hinge pin and the knuckle or to vacuum powder material or debris from the area.
Apparatus and methods for additively manufactured O-ring grooves are presented herein. An O-ring groove is additively manufactured to have a vertical face, bottom face, and an opposite face. By additively manufacturing the opposite face to be outwardly facing with an obtuse angle, the O-ring groove can be built without the need for support structures, thereby reducing post processing steps and manufacturing cost.
B62D 23/00 - Combined superstructure and frame, i.e. monocoque constructions
B62D 27/02 - Connections between superstructure sub-units rigid
B62D 65/00 - Designing, manufacturing, e.g. assembling, facilitating disassembly, or structurally modifying motor vehicles or trailers, not otherwise provided for
B62D 65/02 - Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components
One aspect is an apparatus including a first node including a first bonding surface and a second node including a second bonding surface. The apparatus includes a feature configured to accept an adhesive and an adhesive channel coupled to the feature configured to accept the adhesive. The apparatus includes a shear joint coupling the first node and the second node, the shear joint configured to receive the adhesive in an adhesive region formed by the first bonding surface and the second bonding surface, the adhesive for coupling the first bonding surface to the second bonding surface through the feature configured to accept the adhesive.
F16L 13/11 - Adhesive or cemented joints using materials which fill the space between parts of a joint before hardening
F16L 17/02 - Joints with packing adapted to sealing by fluid pressure with sealing rings arranged between outer surface of pipe and inner surface of sleeve or socket
F16L 17/06 - Joints with packing adapted to sealing by fluid pressure with sealing rings arranged between the end surfaces of the pipes or flanges or arranged in recesses in the pipe ends or flanges
93.
VARIABLE BEAM GEOMETRY LASER-BASED POWDER BED FUSION
Systems and methods of adapting the geometrical shape of a laser beam in laser-based powder-bed fusion (PBF) are provided. An apparatus for laser-based powder-bed fusion includes a depositor that deposits a plurality of layers of a powder material. The apparatus further includes a laser beam source that generates a laser beam having a variable beam geometry. A laser application component applies the laser beam in one of a plurality of beam geometries to fuse the powder material to construct a build piece.
B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
B23K 26/144 - 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 the fluid stream containing particles, e.g. powder
B23K 26/16 - Removal of by-products, e.g. particles or vapours produced during treatment of a workpiece
94.
APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING WITH VARIABLE EXTRUDER PROFILES
Apparatus and methods for additive manufacturing with variable extruder profiles are described herein. An extruder print head with multiple nozzles placed at different angles allows for additional degrees of freedom to additively manufacture parts with complex shapes. In addition with the use of shape memory alloy materials, the diameter of one or more nozzles can be adjusted during the additive manufacturing process. This allows for independent control of the build resolution and of the build rate.
B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
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
95.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CO-CASTING OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED INTERFACE NODES
Systems and methods for co-casting of additively manufactured, high precision Interface Nodes are disclosed. The Interface Node includes an integrated structure including one or more complex or sophisticated features and functions. Co-casting of Interface Nodes by casting a part onto the Interface Node results in a hybrid structure comprising the cast part and the additively manufactured Interface Node. The interface node may include at least one of a node-to-tube connection, node-to-panel connection, or a node-to-extrusion connection. In an embodiment, engineered surfaces may be provided on the Interface Node to improve the blend between the Interface Node and the cast part during the co-casting process.
B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
B22F 7/06 - Manufacture of composite layers, workpieces, or articles, comprising metallic powder, by sintering the powder, with or without compacting of composite workpieces or articles from parts, e.g. to form tipped tools
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
96.
ASSEMBLING STRUCTURES COMPRISING 3D PRINTED COMPONENTS AND STANDARDIZED COMPONENTS UTILIZING ADHESIVE CIRCUITS
One aspect is an apparatus including a plurality of additively manufactured components each having an adhesive injection channel. The components are connected together such that adhesive injection channels are aligned to form an adhesive path that allows adhesive flow between the components. Another aspect is an apparatus, including an additively manufactured component having an adhesive injection channel and an adhesive flow mechanism comprising at least one of an adhesive side end effector or a vacuum side end effector, the adhesive flow mechanism configured to provide adhesive to the adhesive injection channels.
B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
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 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
97.
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING NODE TO PANEL JOINTS
A node to panel interface structure for use in a transport structure such as a vehicle is disclosed. In an aspect, the node includes a base, first and second sides protruding from the base to form a recess for receiving a panel, ports for adhesive injection and/or vacuum generation, one or more adhesive regions disposed on a surface of each side adjacent the panel, and at least one channel coupled between the first and second ports and configured to fill the adhesive regions with an adhesive, the adhesive being cured to form a node-panel interface. The node may be additively manufactured. In an exemplary embodiment, the node may use sealant features for including sealants that border and define the adhesive regions, and that may hermetically seal the region before and after adhesive injection. In another embodiment, the node may include isolation features for including isolators for inhibiting galvanic corrosion. In another aspect, adhesive may be filled serially on the adhesive regions on the first side and then on the adhesive regions on the second side. Adhesive may alternatively may be filled in parallel, or concurrently, on the adhesive regions of both sides.
Apparatus and methods for joining nodes to tubes with node to tube joints are presented herein. Joining techniques allow the connection of additively manufactured nodes to tubes. In an embodiment, at least one node may be joined to a tube and may be a part of a vehicle chassis. The node to tube joint connection incorporates adhesive bonding between the node to tube to realize the connection. Sealants may be used to provide sealed regions for adhesive injection, which are housed in sealing interfaces co-printed with the additively manufactured nodes. Additionally, seals may act as isolators and reduce galvanic corrosion.
A dual-mode suspension system using hydraulic dampers is disclosed. One or more dampers on each side of the four-wheel suspension system are coupled to a respective damper on the other side via a damper valve. One or more leaf springs may be arranged between the leading links coupled to some of the dampers, and trailing links coupled to other of the dampers. The suspension system may advantageously engage, lock, or partially disengage the respective dampers connected by the valve on each side of the system. Manipulating the valve to control engagement of the dampers, which may depend on the speed and related issues, provides control over whether heave motions should be separated from roll. In another embodiment, one or more single or double acting hydraulic cylinders may be used to engage dampers.
B60G 17/018 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or s the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements characterised by the use of a specific signal treatment or control method
Wheel assembles using integrated motors and speed reducers for electric vehicles are disclosed for providing improved structural efficiency. A wheel assembly may include a motor for providing power to a wheel, a leading or trailing type or similar suspension link, a caliper mounted to the suspension link and configured to engage a friction brake rotor on the wheel, and a synchronous belt mounted off-axis for implementing speed reducing. In certain embodiments, the respective components of the wheel assembly are nested to fit into a minimal volume. In other embodiments, the wheel assembly includes a motor that is not nested and that is configured to supply power to the wheel via a belt and pulley system.
patents
