Method and apparatus for continuous composite three dimensional printing
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising:
- an extruder configured to mix a first epoxy part with a second epoxy part to create an epoxy, and to discharge a continuous fiber that is at least partially coated in the epoxy;
an automated mechanical apparatus connected to the extruder; and
at least one processing unit programmed to control the automated mechanical apparatus to move the extruder so as to cause the continuous fiber to be discharged from the extruder in a three-dimensional shape.
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects are disclosed. Two or more materials are extruded simultaneously as a composite, with at least one material in liquid form and at least one material in a solid continuous strand completely encased within the liquid material. A means of curing the liquid material after extrusion hardens the composite. A part is constructed using a series of extruded composite paths. The strand material within the composite contains specific chemical, mechanical, or electrical characteristics that instill the object with enhanced capabilities not possible with only one material.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. An apparatus for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising:
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an extruder configured to mix a first epoxy part with a second epoxy part to create an epoxy, and to discharge a continuous fiber that is at least partially coated in the epoxy; an automated mechanical apparatus connected to the extruder; and at least one processing unit programmed to control the automated mechanical apparatus to move the extruder so as to cause the continuous fiber to be discharged from the extruder in a three-dimensional shape. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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16. An apparatus for additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising:
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a mixing chamber configured to receive a resin and at least one of a catalyst and hardener; a mixer configured to mix the resin and the at least one of the catalyst and the hardener to create an epoxy; a nozzle configured to discharge a continuous strand material that is different from the epoxy and at least partially coated in the epoxy while inside of nozzle; and an automated mechanical apparatus connected to the nozzle; and at least one processing unit programmed to control the automated mechanical apparatus to move the nozzle so as to cause the continuous strand material to be discharged from the nozzle in a three-dimensional shape. - View Dependent Claims (17)
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18. A head for an additive manufacturing system, comprising:
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a mixing chamber configured to receive a resin and at least one of a catalyst and a hardener; a mixer configured to mix the resin and the at least one of the catalyst and the hardener to create an epoxy; and a nozzle configured to discharge a continuous fiber at least partially coated in the epoxy while inside of the head. - View Dependent Claims (19, 20)
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Specification