APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR HANDLING MATERIALS IN A 3-D PRINTER
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Abstract
The present invention is directed towards methods and apparatus for handling powder in a 3D printer. The invention includes a means of transporting powder from multiple sources to a powder dispensing apparatus with minimal user intervention, thus reducing contamination of the 3D printer and surrounding area with loose powder, while also providing a means of improving the recycling of powder for re-use.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1-15. -15. (canceled)
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16. A waste handling system for a three-dimensional printer, the system comprising:
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a receptacle for receiving printhead discharge material; a holding receptacle in communication with the receiving receptacle, the holding receptacle comprising an absorptive medium adapted to absorb at least a portion of the printhead discharge material; and a drain for channeling the printhead discharge material to the holding receptacle, wherein at least a portion of the printhead discharge material solidifies within the holding receptacle. - View Dependent Claims (17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification