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Device and method for producing three-dimensional models

  • US 9,333,709 B2
  • Filed: 03/29/2011
  • Issued: 05/10/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/31/2010
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for manufacturing three-dimensional models by means of a 3D printing process comprising:

  • a build platform having a base surface for application of a build material including a particulate material and a liquid material;

    a support frame arranged around the build platform having guiding elements, to which said support frame is attached;

    i) at least one coater device for dosing the particulate material onto the build platform;

    ii) a receiving container for receiving the particulate material and for filling the coater device with the particulate material; and

    iii) a print head device for printing the liquid material using individually controlled nozzles for bonding the particulate material;

    at least two vertical positioning units for moving the support frame in a Z direction perpendicular to the base surface of the build platform;

    a stationary material storage device for storing the particulate material, anda material feeding device for supplying the particulate material in batches from the material storage device to the receiving container with the least possible amount of shearing forces to the particulate material and without significant Interaction of the particulate material with atmosphere;

    wherein the coater device and the print head are attached to the support frame via the guiding elements; and

    wherein the coating device, the print head and the receiving container move in the Z direction with the movement of the support frame;

    wherein the material feeding device has a fixed feeding location positioned below the stationary material storage device and a discharge location positioned above the receiving container and movable in at least the Z direction with an incline angle that adjusts as the build frame moves vertically;

    wherein the material feeding device includes an incline angle that adjusts as the build frame moves vertically, or the material feeding device includes a lifting device having a linear actuator that moves a conveying crucible to a height that adjusts as the build frame moves vertically.

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