Three-Dimensional Printer
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A three-dimensional printer uses inkjet-type printheads to rapidly prototype, or print, a three-dimensional model. A powder feeder includes a conveyor system and a metering system to deliver powder to a build area in measured quantities. The powder feeder also includes a vacuum system for loading powder into a feed reservoir or chamber. The vacuum system can also be used to cleanup excess powder. Other powder control features include powder gutters and magnetic powder plows. During printing, a cleaning system operates to remove powder from the printheads. In the event of a printhead or jet failure, the failure can be detected and corrective measures taken automatically. After printing, the model can be depowdered and infiltrated in an enclosure.
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Citations
81 Claims
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1-24. -24. (canceled)
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25. An apparatus for a three-dimensional printer comprising:
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a storage chamber for storing build material; and a metering system to regulate the quantity of build material delivered from the storage chamber to an operating position. - View Dependent Claims (26, 27, 28, 29, 30)
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31-66. -66. (canceled)
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67. A method of operating a three-dimensional printer, comprising:
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storing build material in a storage chamber; and regulating the quantity of build material delivered from the storage chamber to an operating position via a metering system. - View Dependent Claims (68, 69)
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70-79. -79. (canceled)
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80. An apparatus for operating a three-dimensional printer, comprising:
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a means for storing build material in a storage chamber; and a means for regulating the quantity of build material delivered from the storage chamber to an operating position via a metering system.
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81-83. -83. (canceled)
Specification