Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080201007 | Methods and systems for making a blood vessel sleeve - Methods, apparatuses, computer program products, devices and systems are described that include accepting one or more blood vessel sleeve dimensions based on blood vessel data from an individual; and making a rapid-prototyped blood vessel sleeve at least partly based on the one or more blood vessel sleeve dimensions. | 08-21-2008 |
20080269939 | DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACCURATE PRINTING OF THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS - A method for building a three-dimensional object by depositing drops of material from a printing head onto a printing surface, layer upon layer is provided. The method includes providing data representing a layer of a three-dimensional object having X and Y coordinates, where X represents the direction of motion of the printing head; applying an X offset parameter for the X coordinate to compensate for inaccuracies caused by deviation of a drop flight trajectory between forward and reverse motions of the printing head; modifying the data based on the X offset parameter and printing the layer of the three-dimensional object according to modified data. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269940 | VOLUME ELEMENT PRINTING SYSTEM - Provided is a volume element printing system for printing a three-dimensional object. The system includes a first printhead group having a plurality of first printheads configured to print a first voxel layer on a substrate, and at least one second printhead group having a plurality of second printheads downstream from the first group. The second printhead group is configured to print a subsequent voxel layer on at least part of the first layer, said second printheads being reconfigurable as backup printheads for the first printheads in case of failure. The system also includes an object insertion device configured to insert an object into a cavity defined by the voxel layers, and a conveyor configured to convey the substrate past the printhead groups. Also included is a control system configured to control and monitor the printhead groups, the object insertion device and the conveyor, and dynamically to reconfigure the second printheads if failure of a first printhead is detected. | 10-30-2008 |
20090024243 | Method and system for real-time monitoring and controlling height of deposit by using image photographing and image processing technology in laser cladding and laser-aided direct metal manufacturing process - The object of this invention is to provide a method and system for real-time monitoring and controlling the height of a deposit by using image photographing and image processing technology in a laser cladding and laser-aided direct metal manufacturing process. This invention also provides a method of controlling the intensity of laser power, which is one of the most important process variables, regardless of the operational condition of a laser power unit ( | 01-22-2009 |
20090076643 | PRODUCTION LINE INCORPORATING EQUIDISTANTLY SPACED APART SETS OF PRINTHEADS - A production line is provided for forming a layered product. The production line includes a conveyor configured to convey a substrate. A plurality of elongate printheads extend transverse to the conveyance direction and is configured to print voxels upon the conveyed substrate to form the layered product. The printheads are arranged to form a plurality of sets which are equidistantly spaced apart. | 03-19-2009 |
20090177309 | System for building three-dimensional objects containing embedded inserts, and method of use thereof - A system for building a three-dimensional object with a layer-based additive technique, the system comprising a controller configured to receive build sequence data for the three-dimensional object, a head assembly in signal communication with the controller and configured to form a plurality of layers of the three-dimensional object based on the build sequence data, and an insert placement apparatus in signal communication with the controller and configured to place at least one insert in the plurality of formed layers based on the build sequence data. | 07-09-2009 |
20090299517 | METHOD FOR BUILDING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS WITH EXTRUSION-BASED LAYERED DEPOSITION SYSTEMS - A method of forming a three-dimensional object using an extrusion-based layered deposition system, the method comprising generating a build path for building a layer of the three-dimensional object, where the build path defines a void region. The method further comprising generating at least one intermediate path in the void region, and generating a remnant path based at least in part on the at least one intermediate path. | 12-03-2009 |
20100023155 | METHOD FOR THE AUTOMATED PRODUCTION OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS AND TEXTURED SUBSTRATES FROM TWO-DIMENSIONAL OR THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS - A reproduction is prepared wherein the length of the reproduction is varied by one scale factor and the deeps of the image produced in the reproduction is varied by a second scale factor. The reproduction may be, prepared from a three dimensional article or a painting, art work or other two dimensional member having a topography in the surface thereof (such as brush strokes) or from a two dimensional substrate which has a picture thereon without any topography wherein the topography which is applied to the reproduction is prepared based upon computer interpretation of the objects present in the picture. | 01-28-2010 |
20100082147 | METHOD FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF A REPRODUCTION OF AN ENCAPSULATED HEAD OF A FOETUS AND OBJECTS OBTAINED BY THE METHOD - A method for manufacturing a reproduction of a three-dimensional physical object by obtaining a digital two-dimensional representation of the object, manipulating the two-dimensional representation to input-data for a manufacturing machine, and manufacturing a reproduction of a three-dimensional physical object based on the input-data. The method can include selecting a three-dimensional object which is encapsulated, designating a predefined digital three-dimensional representation that resembles the encapsulated three-dimensional physical object, placing the predefined digital three-dimensional model in the background of the manipulated two-dimensional representation, scaling and modifying the predefined digital three-dimensional representation in accordance with the two-dimensional representation, combining the predefined digital three-dimensional representation with the manipulated two-dimensional representation to a full three-dimensional digital representation, converting the full three-dimensional representation to input-data for a manufacturing machine, and on basis of the input data reproducing the encapsulated three-dimensional object as a physical three-dimensional model. | 04-01-2010 |
20100121475 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING CO-MOLDED INSERTS - A method for manufacturing a co-molded insert part for use in composite, plastic, or metal parts is disclosed. The method comprises the step of providing a three-dimensional molding insert produced by a layer additive manufacturing process. The method further comprises the step of applying a layer material in contact with at least a portion of the molding insert. The method further comprises the step of co-molding the layer material and the molding insert simultaneously to produce a co-molded insert part. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121476 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL FABRICATION - A method of three-dimensional fabrication of an object is disclosed. The method comprises: forming a plurality of layers in a configured pattern corresponding to the shape of the three-dimensional object, at least one layer of the plurality of layers being formed at a predetermined and different thickness selected so as to compensate for post-formation shrinkage of the layer along a vertical direction. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention spread of building material of one or more layers is diluted at least locally such as to maintain a predetermined thickness and a predetermined planar resolution for the layer. | 05-13-2010 |
20100161105 | COMBINED PROCESS FOR BUILDING THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELS - A method and system for building a three-dimensional model, which include performing a subtractive removal process on at least one material feedstock to form a plurality of base seeds, performing an additive deposition process to deposit at least one material on at least a portion of a base seed target surface, and performing an assembly process to combine the plurality of base seeds to form at least a portion of the three-dimensional model. | 06-24-2010 |
20100174399 | VOLUME ELEMENT PRINTING SYSTEM WITH PRINTHEAD GROUPS OF VARYING VERTICAL DISPLACEMENT FROM SUBSTRATE - A volume element (voxel) printing system for printing a three-dimensional object includes a first printhead group having a plurality of first printheads configured to print a first voxel layer on a substrate; at least one second printhead group having a plurality of second printheads downstream from the first group, the second printhead group configured to print a subsequent voxel layer on at least part of the first layer, said second printheads being reconfigurable as backup printheads for the first printheads in case of failure; a conveyor configured to convey the substrate past the printhead groups; and a control system configured to control and monitor the printhead groups, the object insertion device, and the conveyor, and dynamically to reconfigure the second printheads upon detection of failure of a first printhead. The at least one second printhead group is vertically spaced from the substrate by a greater distance than the first printhead group. | 07-08-2010 |
20100217429 | RAPID PRODUCTION APPARATUS - A method of producing an object by sequentially printing layers of construction material one on top of the other, the method comprising: providing the construction material at a first lower temperature; flowing the construction material through a heated flow path in a flow structure to heat the construction material and delivering the heated construction material to a heated reservoir in a printing head; and dispensing the heated construction material from the reservoir to build the object layer by layer. | 08-26-2010 |
20100280648 | Splicing Fuselage Sections Without Shims - Fuselage sections of an aircraft are joined using splice elements that compensate for gaps caused by mismatches between mating surfaces on the fuselage sections. The fuselage sections are virtually assembled using computer models that are based on non-contact measurements of as-built fuselage sections. The virtually assembled fuselage sections are used to map the gaps between the mating surfaces. The mapped gaps are used to produce tool inserts having profiles that reflect the dimensions of the gaps. The tool inserts are used to manufacture splice elements having profiles that fill the gaps when the fuselage sections are assembled and joined, thereby eliminating the need for shims and spaces to fill the gaps. | 11-04-2010 |
20100312375 | ARTIFICIAL BONE FORMING METHOD BY POWDER LAMINATION METHOD - An artificial bone forming method, comprising a) a powder layer forming step ( | 12-09-2010 |
20110004335 | REPLACEABLE FAIRING FOR PROSTHETIC LIMB OR BRACE - A fairing can be attached to a prosthetic limb or over a brace to alter the appearance of the prosthetic limb or brace. The outer surface of the prosthetic limb can be a mirror image of an intact limb and the outer surface of the brace can have an outer surface that corresponds to an injured limb. Because the fairing fits closely around the prosthetic limb or brace, the interior surface of the fairing has a surface that corresponds to a mirror image of an intact limb or an outer surface of an injured limb. | 01-06-2011 |
20110054663 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELING APPARATUS, METHOD OF PRODUCING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT, AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT - A three-dimensional modeling apparatus includes a stage, a head, a movement mechanism, and a control unit. The head supplies a process liquid that is one of a solution and a dispersion liquid onto the stage to cause a material that constitutes a three-dimensional object to be precipitated out of the process liquid by evaporating one of a solvent and a dispersion medium therefrom. The movement mechanism relatively moves the head and the stage. The control unit controls a drive of the movement mechanism to form the three-dimensional object. | 03-03-2011 |
20110060445 | USE AND PROVISION OF AN AMORPHOUS VINYL ALCOHOL POLYMER FOR FORMING A STRUCTURE - A process for three-dimensional modeling in which water soluble thermoplastic material is used in an additive deposition process to form a soluble support structure for a three-dimensional model formed via layer-by-layer deposition of the model's geometry. The water-soluble thermoplastic material includes a base of vinyl alcohol. Following the completion of the model, the model is placed in a cold water bath to dissolve the support structure. The water-soluble material can also be used to form soluble model directly. | 03-10-2011 |
20110060446 | METHOD OF PRODUCING FLEXIBLE VESSEL MODEL FOR SIMULATING SURGICAL OPERATION - A method of producing a flexible vessel model for simulating a surgical operation, which is a three-dimensional model being capable of reproducing an aneurysm or narrowing occurring in the artery or vein based on CT/MRI image data of a patient obtained in practice and thus allowing vascular therapy trainings and preoperative simulations, with the use of a precise lamination modeling machine, wherein a vascular model having an affected part is fabricated by using a lamination technique together with a supporting material for sustaining the shape of the three-dimensional model during the fabrication in the precise lamination modeling machine and, after the completion of the fabrication by the lamination machine technique, the supporting material is removed. Thus, it is possible to provide a three-dimensional vascular model whereby the shape of an aneurysm or narrowing occurring in the artery or vein, which is to be used in preoperative simulation of vascular therapy for the artery or vein, can be reproduced with the use of a flexible polymer model and thus vascular therapy trainings and preoperative simulation can be carried out by using the same. | 03-10-2011 |
20110118864 | RAPID PROTOTYPING APPARATUS - Apparatus for producing an object by sequentially forming thin layers of a construction material one on top of the other responsive to data defining the object, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of printing heads each having a surface formed with a plurality of output orifices and controllable to dispense the construction material through each orifice independently of the other orifices; a shuttle to which the printing heads are mounted; a support surface; and a controller adapted to control the shuttle to move back and forth over the support surface and as the shuttle moves to control the printing heads to dispense the construction material through each of their respective orifices responsive to the data to form a first layer on the support surface and thereafter, sequentially the other layers; wherein each printing head is dismountable from the shuttle and replaceable independently of the other printing heads. | 05-19-2011 |
20110196529 | Process for the Production of a Three-Dimensional Object With Resolution Improvement by "Pixel Shift" - The invention relates to a process or device for the production of a three-dimensional object by layer-wise solidification of a material which is solidifiable under the application of electromagnetic irradiation by means of mask illumination, wherein the mask is produced using an image forming unit having a prescribed resolution, which is formed from a constant number of image forming elements (pixels) being discrete and being arranged in a spatially mutually fixed manner. For the improvement of the resolution along the outer and inner contours of the sectional areas of the object to be generated layer-wise in the sub-pixel range, a multiple illumination per layer is performed, which consists of a series of multiple images that are mutually shifted in the sub-pixel range in the image/construction plane, wherein a separate mask/bitmap is produced for each shifted image. | 08-11-2011 |
20120059504 | AUTOMATED 3D BUILD PROCESSES - A conveyor or other transport mechanism is provided to support multiple, sequential builds from a three-dimensional fabrication machine. The conveyor may be heated/cooled, coated, or otherwise treated to assist in adhesion during a build, as well as removal of objects after a build. Each fabricated object may be automatically removed from the conveyor as the conveyor moves in order to restore a buildable surface for fabrication of additional objects. | 03-08-2012 |
20120072006 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RAPID FABRICATION OF ARBITRARY THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS - A three-dimensional object fabrication apparatus. A housing encloses a work area. An interface is provided in the housing permit a processor within the housing to receive digital data defining geometry for a three-dimensional object to be fabricated. A fabrication mechanism forms a portion of the object by addition of material substantially consistent with the digital data for a corresponding portion of the geometry received by the processor. Once the object is complete, the object is automatically detached from any structure contained within the housing. | 03-22-2012 |
20120283866 | METHODS FOR PLACING AN IMPLANT ANALOG IN A PHYSICAL MODEL OF THE PATIENT'S MOUTH - A method of placing a dental implant analog in a physical model for use in creating a dental prosthesis is provided. The physical model, which is usually based on an impression of the patient's mouth or a scan of the patient's mouth, is prepared. The model is scanned. A three-dimensional computer model of the physical model is created and is used to develop the location of the dental implant. A robot then modifies the physical model to create an opening for the implant analog. The robot then places the implant analog within the opening at the location dictated by the three-dimensional computer model. | 11-08-2012 |
20120290118 | Method and system for forming a dental prosthesis - A system and method for use in constructing a prosthesis/complete restoration that obtains a digital dentition model, such as a 3D geometric surface model or a 3D volumetric image model, processes the digital dentition model to form a virtual model, forms a virtual mold including a digital prosthesis and/or complete restoration, and uses the virtual model to construct the prosthesis/complete restoration. Processing circuitry, such as a programmed server, can be used to obtain the digital dentition model and form the virtual mold. A rapid manufacturing device can be used to construct the prosthesis/complete restoration. | 11-15-2012 |
20120303151 | Computational Process Control - The present invention provides a number of innovations in the area of computational process control (CPC). CPC offers unique diagnostic capability during chip manufacturing cycle by analyzing temporal drift of a lithography apparatus/ process, and provides a solution towards achieving performance stability of the lithography apparatus/process. Embodiments of the present invention enable optimized process windows and higher yields by keeping performance of a lithography apparatus and/or parameters of a lithography process substantially close to a pre-defined baseline condition. This is done by comparing the measured temporal drift to a baseline performance using a lithography process simulation model. Once in manufacturing, CPC optimizes a scanner for specific patterns or reticles by leveraging wafer metrology techniques and feedback loop, and monitors and controls, among other things, overlay and/or CD uniformity (CDU) performance over time to continuously maintain the system close to the baseline condition. | 11-29-2012 |
20120316669 | RAPID PROTOTYPING APPARATUS - Apparatus for producing an object by sequentially forming thin layers of a construction material one on top of the other responsive to data defining the object, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of printing heads each having a surface formed with a plurality of output orifices and controllable to dispense the construction material through each orifice independently of the other orifices; a shuttle to which the printing heads are mounted; a support surface; and a controller adapted to control the shuttle to move back and forth over the support surface and as the shuttle moves to control the printing heads to dispense the construction material through each of their respective orifices responsive to the data to form a first layer on the support surface and thereafter, sequentially the other layers; wherein each printing head is dismountable from the shuttle and replaceable independently of the other printing heads. | 12-13-2012 |
20130073073 | AUTOMATED 3D BUILD PROCESSES - A conveyor or other transport mechanism is provided to support multiple, sequential builds from a three-dimensional fabrication machine. The conveyor may be heated/cooled, coated, or otherwise treated to assist in adhesion during a build, as well as removal of objects after a build. Each fabricated object may be automatically removed from the conveyor as the conveyor moves in order to restore a buildable surface for fabrication of additional objects. | 03-21-2013 |
20130144422 | Method and System for Generating a Dental Implant Surgical Drill Guide - A method and system for producing a dental implant surgical guide is disclosed. A patient-specific virtual model is generated using image data specific to a patient and virtual dental implants. The virtual model aligns the image data with the virtual dental implants using modeling software. A virtual mold is generated from the virtual model, and a physical mold is generated from the virtual mold. The physical mold is covered with a thermoplastic sheet via a thermoforming process. Excess thermoplastic material is trimmed off after the thermoforming process to produce a thermoformed piece. Metal tubes corresponding to each the virtual dental implants are placed onto the physical mold denoting the position, trajectory, and depth of the one or more virtual dental implants. A dental implant surgical guide that contains the thermoformed piece with the one or more tubes is produced. | 06-06-2013 |
20130297062 | Field Deployable Rapid Prototypable UXVs - A 3D printer that can use ABS-plus plastic material deployed in the battlefield for printing polycarbonate, or rubber components individually or in combination to create component parts comprised of two or more materials. A library of autonomous vehicles will be created utilizing the standard components and the 3D printer. These libraries will include a variety of light weight UGVS, fixed wings UAVS, quads rotors, hex-rotors, UGS, etc. The library will also include a variety of standard payloads that would be interchangeable from platform to platform. Each model in the library will provide the operator with a performance envelop of the printed system. A submission and approval process will be created for new devices. A common control architecture for controlling the devices will be forced on every model in the library. | 11-07-2013 |
20130310965 | WEIGHT-BASED IDENTIFICATION OF THREE DIMENSIONAL PRINTED PARTS - Methods and systems for weight-based identification of three dimensional (3D) printed parts. Various embodiments disclosed herein may permit reliable processing of 3D printed parts to effectively scale a 3D printing service to large volumes of orders for 3D printed parts. | 11-21-2013 |
20140012407 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR THE FABRICATION OF TISSUE - Described herein are bioprinters comprising: one or more printer heads, wherein a printer head comprises a means for receiving and holding at least one cartridge, and wherein said cartridge comprises contents selected from one or more of: bio-ink and support material; a means for calibrating the position of at least one cartridge; and a means for dispensing the contents of at least one cartridge. Further described herein are methods for fabricating a tissue construct, comprising: a computer module receiving input of a visual representation of a desired tissue construct; a computer module generating a series of commands, wherein the commands are based on the visual representation and are readable by a bioprinter; a computer module providing the series of commands to a bioprinter; and the bioprinter depositing bio-ink and support material according to the commands to form a construct with a defined geometry. | 01-09-2014 |
20140025190 | Single-Action Three-Dimensional Model Printing Methods - Methods and techniques of using 3D printers to create physical models from image data are discussed. Geometric representations of different physical models are described and complex data conversion processes that convert input image data into geometric representations compatible with third party 3D printers are disclosed. Printing templates are used to encapsulate complex geometric representations and complicated data conversion processes from users for fast and simple 3D physical model printing applications. | 01-23-2014 |
20140031967 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RAPID PROTOTYPING OF COMPLEX STRUCTURES - A method is provided for rapid prototyping of complex structures, such as complex bone structures and internal neural and cardiovascular pathways. The method involves loading the triangles from a polygonal mesh computer model of a 3D object having one or more internal void spaces, converting the triangles to voxels, separating the voxels of the model into watertight pieces, and printing the pieces using a 3D printer such as a ZPrinter™. The method allows realistic internal void space representation through removal of excess powder from printing which would otherwise be trapped in the whole object and also allows the application of a resin to internal surfaces which may provide realistic internal object density useful for medical and other applications. Pegs and holes may also be added to and subtracted from the pieces to allow for assembly of the printed object. A system and computer program product is also provided. | 01-30-2014 |
20140046473 | AUTOMATED MODEL CUSTOMIZATION - A variety of computer automated tools are disclosed to assist consumers with using three-dimensional printers. Where a user also has access to a three-dimensional scanner, the tools may also support automated modifications to scanned subject matter. | 02-13-2014 |
20140052287 | METHOD FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS WITH ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS USING SCAFFOLDS - A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, comprising printing the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis in the additive manufacturing system, printing a scaffold in a layer by layer manner along the printing axis along with the printing of the three-dimensional part, and bracing the three-dimensional part laterally relative to the printing axis with the scaffold while printing the three-dimensional part. | 02-20-2014 |
20140052288 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FORMING THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS USING LINEAR SOLIDIFICATION - An apparatus and method for making a three-dimensional object from a solidifiable material using a linear solidification device is shown and described. In certain examples, the linear solidification device includes a laser diode that projects light onto a scanning device, such as a rotating polygonal mirror or a linear scanning micromirror, which then deflects the light onto a photohardenable resin. As a result, the linear solidification device scans a line of solidification energy in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of travel of the laser diode. In other examples, the linear solidification device is a laser device array or light emitting diode array that extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of travel of the array. | 02-20-2014 |
20140088751 | MULTICOLOURED FUSED DEPOSITION MODELLING PRINT - The invention relates to a modified fused deposition modeling process for production of multicolored three-dimensional objects. More particularly, the invention relates to a 3D printing process with which 3D objects with particularly good color appearance compared to the prior art can be produced. The process according to the invention is based on surface coloring or additive coating of the polymer strand used for production of the actual object or of the melt which results therefrom in the nozzle. | 03-27-2014 |
20140121813 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL FABRICATION WITH CAVITY FILLING - A three-dimensional printer is configured to fill interior cavities of a fabricated object with functional or aesthetic materials during fabrication. In general, a number of layers can be fabricated with an infill pattern that leaves void space within an exterior surface of the object. These void spaces can receive a second material such as an epoxy or adhesive that spans multiple layers of the object to increase structural integrity. Similarly, aesthetic materials may be used to add color, opacity or other desired properties to a fabricated object. The void spaces can also or instead form molds that are filled with a build material to provide a fabricated object. | 05-01-2014 |
20140129022 | AUTOMATED MODEL CUSTOMIZATION - A variety of computer automated tools are disclosed to assist consumers with using three-dimensional printers. Where a user also has access to a three-dimensional scanner, the tools may also support automated modifications to scanned subject matter. | 05-08-2014 |
20140156053 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS - A method of authenticating the printing of a three-dimensional (3D) article at a 3D printer according to a 3D print file describing a three-dimensional design is described. The method comprises: receiving an authentication request from a 3D print server that is associated with the 3D printer, the request comprising a unique design identifier associated with a 3D design file and a unique 3D printer identifier associated with a 3D printer, the received unique 3D design identifier being related to the received 3D printer ter identifier in accordance with a first relationship; using at least one of the received unique identifiers to access a verifying 3D design identifier and a verifying 3D printer identifier, the verifying identifiers being related to each other in accordance with a second relationship; comparing the first and second relationships between the received and verifying identifiers; generating an authentication signal if the first relationship corresponds with the second relationship; obtaining a decryption key associated with the received identifiers in response to the authentication signal; and transferring the decryption key to the 3D print server to authenticate and enable the printing of the 3D article on the 3D printer. | 06-05-2014 |
20140163717 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING AND REPAIR OF METAL COMPONENTS - Scanning Laser Epitaxy (SLE) is a layer-by-layer additive manufacturing process that allows for the fabrication of three-dimensional objects with specified microstructure through the controlled melting and re-solidification of a metal powders placed atop a base substrate. SLE can be used to repair single crystal (SX) turbine airfoils, for example, as well as the manufacture functionally graded turbine components. The SLE process is capable of creating equiaxed, directionally solidified, and SX structures. Real-time feedback control schemes based upon an offline model can be used both to create specified defect free microstructures and to improve the repeatability of the process. Control schemes can be used based upon temperature data feedback provided at high frame rate by a thermal imaging camera as well as a melt-pool viewing video microscope. A real-time control scheme can deliver the capability of creating engine ready net shape turbine components from raw powder material. | 06-12-2014 |
20140257549 | Methods and Apparatus for Photosculpture - A 3D object (the “New Object”) is fabricated layer by layer by 3D printing. The shape and relative dimensions of the various parts of the New Object match that of another 3D object (the “Target Object”). In addition, the exterior of the New Object appears to be a photographic likeness of the Target Object. The “photographic” likeness is created by variations in visual characteristics of materials in the layers comprising the New Object, and in particular by variations at or near the surface of the New Object. Thus, the photographic likeness is an integral part of these layers comprising the New Object. An object is scanned, from which a texture map is obtained. A CAD model is sliced into slices (bit maps files) which are then colored by a program with the boundary to match the color or gray scale to color the appropriate pixels, derived from the texture map. | 09-11-2014 |
20140277678 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR IMPROVING PATIENT ENGAGEMENT VIA MEDICAL AVATARS - Certain examples provide systems, methods, and apparatus for patient care and support. An example three-dimensional printed model of a portion of a patient anatomy is to be formed for the patient based on image data obtained of the patient. The three-dimensional printed model includes an output device to provide an output from the three-dimensional printed model that is perceptible to the patient. The three-dimensional printed model includes a communication device to facilitate exchange of information between the three-dimensional printed model and one or more external systems. The three-dimensional printed model includes a controller to facilitate exchange of information, via the communication device, between the three-dimensional printed model and the one or more external systems. The controller is also to provide feedback to the patient via the output device with respect to a condition affecting the portion of the patient anatomy represented by the three-dimensional printed model via the output device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140309764 | ADAPTIVE MATERIAL DEPOSITION IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL FABRICATION - The subject disclosure is directed towards adapting a three-dimensional model to surface geometry when fabricating a three-dimensional object. While partitioning model data into planar regions and non-planar regions of the three-dimensional object, the model data associated with the non-planar regions is modified to more accurately generate a path that follows the object's curved surface geometry. This path is transformed into an instruction set, which when executed by a device, causes movement along the path while depositing material on the three-dimensional object. | 10-16-2014 |
20140309765 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DESIGNING GOODS - A system for computer-aided design of an object, including a first computer system operated by a first user, a second computer system operated by a second user, an application server hosting a design software application, and a web server providing an interface for at least the first user to access the design software application. The design software application may be configured to receive a first input comprising a first modification to a design template or creating a new design from the first computer system, receive a second input comprising a second modification to the design template from second computer system, and modify the design template based on the first and second modifications to generate a modified design. | 10-16-2014 |
20140330421 | SINGLE ACTION THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL PRINTING METHODS - Methods and techniques of using 3D printers to create physical models from image data are discussed. Geometric representations of different physical models are described and complex data conversion processes that convert input image data into geometric representations compatible with third party 3D printers are disclosed. Printing templates are used to encapsulate complex geometric representations and complicated data conversion processes from users for fast and simple 3D physical model printing applications. | 11-06-2014 |
20140358273 | Platen Planarizing Process for Additive Manufacturing System - A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method comprising generating and printing a planarizing part having a substantially-planar top surface relative to a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors a topography of a platen surface, and printing the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part. | 12-04-2014 |
20150057784 | OPTIMIZING 3D PRINTING USING SEGMENTATION OR AGGREGATION - 3D printing may be optimized by segmenting input jobs and/or combining parts of input jobs together. In an embodiment, a user-defined metric is received associated with each input job and this is used in scheduling input jobs to optimize latency and/or throughput of the 3D printing process, along with the printing envelope and other characteristics of the 3D printers used. In various embodiments, the scheduling may comprise dividing a 3D object into a number of parts and then scheduling these parts separately and/or combining 3D objects, or parts of 3D objects, from various input jobs to be printed at the same time on the same 3D printer. In various embodiments, the scheduling is repeated when a new input job is received and changes made during printing. In various embodiments, a user may submit an updated version of an input job which is already in the process of being printed. | 02-26-2015 |
20150057785 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING APPARATUS AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL PREVIEW AND PRINTING METHOD THEREOF - A three-dimensional (3-D) printing apparatus includes a processing unit, a base, and a printing head. The processing unit is configured to read and process a first digital 3-D model and is adapted to receive an adjustment signal to adjust the first digital 3-D model to a second digital 3-D model according to the adjustment signal. The printing head is coupled to and controlled by the processing unit. If the second digital 3-D model is confirmed, the processing unit saves the second digital 3-D model and controls the printing head to dispense a construction material in a layer-by-layer manner on the base to form a 3-D object associated with the second digital 3-D model. | 02-26-2015 |
20150057786 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR THE FABRICATION OF TISSUE - Described herein are bioprinters comprising: one or more printer heads, wherein a printer head comprises a means for receiving and holding at least one cartridge, and wherein said cartridge comprises contents selected from one or more of: bio-ink and support material; a means for calibrating the position of at least one cartridge; and a means for dispensing the contents of at least one cartridge. Further described herein are methods for fabricating a tissue construct, comprising: a computer module receiving input of a visual representation of a desired tissue construct; a computer module generating a series of commands, wherein the commands are based on the visual representation and are readable by a bioprinter; a computer module providing the series of commands to a bioprinter; and the bioprinter depositing bio-ink and support material according to the commands to form a construct with a defined geometry. | 02-26-2015 |
20150081080 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING - A three-dimensional printing system includes a light source unit, at least one image-capturing module, a processing unit and a printing device. The image-capturing module includes an image-capturing unit and a focus-adjusting lens group. The processing unit controls a zooming lens to change a shooting focal length and controlling multiple images of the object to be measured captured by the image-capturing unit under the different shooting focal lengths, wherein each of the plural images includes focused and unfocused local images therein, and the processing unit calculates out a three-dimensional profile data of the object to be measured according to the focused local images in the images and the shooting focal lengths corresponding to the focused local images. The printing device prints multiple cross-sectional profiles corresponding to the object to be measured. Further, a method for three-dimensional printing is also provided. | 03-19-2015 |
20150100148 | PRINTING PLATE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND COMPUTER-READABLE NON-TRANSITORY RECORDING MEDIUM STORING A DATA GENERATING PROGRAM AND A CONTROL PROGRAM FOR A PRINTING PLATE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS - A computer readable non-transitory recording medium storing a control program for controlling a manufacturing apparatus which manufactures a printing plate from a thermoplastic porous material and comprises a thermal head with a plurality of heater elements, the control program causing a computer to: acquire print data corresponding to a print pattern and including pixel data, with each item of pixel data corresponding to each area of the surface of the porous material partitioned into a lattice shape; identify, based on the print data, print pixel data that is part of the pixel data and is pixel data comprising the print pattern, and non-print pixel data that is the other part of the pixel data and is pixel data not comprising the print pattern; selectively apply a first heat quantity to a first area corresponding to the non-print pixel data by at least one first heater element, among the plurality of heater elements provided on the thermal head, that makes contact with the first area; and selectively apply a second heat quantity that is smaller than the first heat quantity to a second area by at least one second heater element, among the plurality of heater elements, that makes contact with the second area identified by the control data of the print pixel data, the second area being where ink readily runs. | 04-09-2015 |
20150112472 | Remote Operations of Additive Manufacturing Devices - Node-based remote operations of additive manufacturing device are disclosed. In an aspect, a system for operating a remote additive manufacturing device is disclosed. Each computing device is a node in a communications path and contains an instance of a command software program configured to receive and send a single set of commands, ensure the integrity of such commands and/or operate communicatively connected additive manufacturing devices. | 04-23-2015 |
20150120033 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING, AND COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM - When first cross-sectional image data representing a target model corresponding to a shape of a three-dimensional printing object, and second cross-sectional image data representing both of the target model and a support model corresponding to a shape of a member assisting the creation of the three-dimensional printing object, are recognized to match each other by at least a predetermined ratio, the second cross-sectional image data is stored on storage means as third cross-sectional image data. By contrast, when the first cross-sectional image data and the second cross-sectional image data are recognized not to match each other by at least the predetermined ratio, synthesis data of the first cross-sectional image data and the second cross-sectional image data is stored on the storage medium as the third cross-sectional image data. The three-dimensional printing object is created based on the third cross-sectional image data. | 04-30-2015 |
20150142158 | Method and Device for Producing a Three-Dimensional Object in Layers - Method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object by a layer-wise solidification of a building material at positions in the respective layer corresponding to the cross-section of the object to be manufactured by introducing energy by means of electromagnetic radiation, wherein a calculation, which stresses will occur inside of the object during the layer-wise manufacturing, is carried out and wherein the object to be manufactured obtains additional structures with respect to the required shape of the object to be manufactured when a critical value is exceeded. | 05-21-2015 |
20150142159 | COLOR OR MULTI-MATERIAL THREE-DIMENSIONAL (3D) PRINTING - A three-dimensional (3D) continuous color printer includes one or more cartridges each with a building material stored therein, a mixer coupled to each cartridge, and a single printhead coupled to a mixer output, wherein the building material stored in the cartridge is transported to the mixer and the single print head to form a continuous color object. | 05-21-2015 |
20150142160 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELING METHOD - A three-dimensional modeling method having a high degree of flexibility in selecting sheet materials, and capable of performing modeling with high accuracy is provided. In each of a plurality of sheets used for the three-dimensional modeling method in one aspect of the disclosure, a body layer | 05-21-2015 |
20150290880 | PRINTING A THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECT ABOUT A VOXEL STRUCTURE ASSEMBLED FROM PREFORMED BLOCKS - A computer program product includes a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, where the program instructions are executable by a processor to cause the processor to perform a method. The method comprises obtaining data describing external surfaces of a three dimensional object to be made using a three dimensional printer; determining, for a given voxel size, a voxel structure having a size and a shape to be subsumed within the external surfaces of the object; outputting user instructions for manually assembling the voxel structure and positioning the voxel structure into the three dimensional printer; and printing material onto the assembled voxel structure to form an object that subsumes the voxel structure. The use of a voxel structure can reduce print time and the amount of print resources required to form an object. | 10-15-2015 |
20150320138 | Customized Shoe Textures And Shoe Portions - A shoe with a three-dimensional (3-D) surface texture created using rapid manufacturing techniques is provided. A plurality of 3-D surface texture options is presented on a user interface; each of the options is associated with one of a plurality of 3-D surface textures to be applied to a portion of a shoe. A selection of a 3-D surface texture is received and is used in part to generate a design file. The design file is used to instruct a rapid manufacturing device to manufacture the portion of the shoe comprised of the 3-D surface texture using a rapid manufacturing technique. | 11-12-2015 |
20150328838 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING - Systems, devices, and methods for three-dimensional printing are provided. The systems, devices, and methods provide for high throughput printing by allowing for parallel extrusion within a single vertical layer of the printed object, i.e., parallel extrusion within an x-y coordinate plane. Any advancement of an extruder can be limited to movement along a single axis, or even no axis at all, so that printing occurs more quickly. In some embodiments, the extruder can include a printing plate that includes a plurality of apertures defined by conductive elements extending in a grid-like manner. The printer can be designed such that material is disposed to a build platform through the apertures only when the aperture is heated on all four sides, for instance by running current through the conductive elements that define the aperture. Other systems, devices, and methods for three-dimensional printing are also provided. | 11-19-2015 |
20150331402 | INTELLIGENT 3D PRINTING THROUGH OPTIMIZATION OF 3D PRINT PARAMETERS - Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for improving 3D printing systems and techniques include, in one aspect, a system including: three dimensional (3D) printer hardware; and at least one computer communicatively coupled with the 3D printer hardware, the at least one computer programed to receive 3D print type inputs for an object to be 3D printed and create a 3D print profile including parameters for 3D printing the object using the 3D printer hardware by matching the 3D print type inputs against a database. | 11-19-2015 |
20150352790 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FORMING THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS - The present technology provides a three-dimensional (3D) printing system for forming 3D objects. The system includes a base plate, a first nozzle, a second nozzle, and a curing agent. The first nozzle can be configured to form a base layer of an object on the base plate and to form a contour of a second layer of the object on the base layer with a first material. The contour defines a volume within the second layer. The second nozzle can be configured to at least partially fill the volume within the second layer with a second material. The contour of the second layer and the second material form the second layer. The curing agent can be configured to solidify the second material. | 12-10-2015 |
20150360420 | METHOD FOR REVERSED MODELING OF A BIOMEDICAL MODEL - A method for reversed modeling of biomedical model of the present invention comprises at least the following steps: (a) Obtaining the data of a first model; (b) Transferring data of the first model into data of a second model which are applied to a rapid Prototyping machine; (c) Entering data of the second model into the rapid prototyping machine; (d) Laying model materials, coating adhesives and continuing sterilization by the rapid prototyping machine and stacking until a biomedical model is made; wherein sterilization is done during stacking medical model, therefore keeping the biomedical model sterile inside is achieved. | 12-17-2015 |
20150367577 | USE OF MULTIPLE BEAM SPOT SIZES FOR OBTAINING IMPROVED PERFORMANCE IN OPTICAL ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES - Methods and apparatuses for using multiple beam spot widths in order to obtain improved performance in optical additive manufacturing techniques are disclosed. In some embodiments, an optical additive manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing an object, comprises a scanner configured to direct a beam emitted by an emitter towards an object layer and a control module in data communication with the scanner. The control module may be configured to: calculate a plurality of hatch vectors; select two or more of the plurality hatch vectors to be compared; compare the two or more selected hatch vectors to a first combination parameter; and calculate a first new hatch vector based on the two or more selected hatch vectors. | 12-24-2015 |
20150375455 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL SCANNING WATERMARK - Markers may be included in items manufactured on demand by a manufacturing apparatus. The markers in such marked items may be detected by a scanning apparatus, and information and/or instructions associated with printing three-dimensional objects can be provided based on the markers. | 12-31-2015 |
20150378353 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL WATERMARK GENERATION - Markers may be included in items manufactured on demand by a manufacturing apparatus. The markers in such marked items may be detected by a scanning apparatus, and information and/or instructions associated with printing three-dimensional objects can be provided based on the markers. | 12-31-2015 |
20160009031 | CLOUD COMPUTING SYSTEM, VEHICLE CLOUD PROCESSING DEVICE AND METHODS FOR USE THEREWITH | 01-14-2016 |
20160023404 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL MANUFACTURING, FABRICATING, FORMING, AND/OR REPAIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD - An apparatus, including a fabrication platform; at least one fabrication tool capable of forming, adding to, or subtracting from, an object of manufacture or a component thereof; a three-dimensional guide system for guiding a movement of the at least one fabrication tool; at least one sensor for determining a distance or a depth of a point or point of or on the object of the manufacture or the component, the fabrication platform, the at least one fabrication tool, or the three-dimensional guide system; a controller capable of controlling a position or an operation of the fabrication platform, the at least one fabrication tool, or the three-dimensional guide system; a user input device for inputting an instruction, data, or information, into the apparatus; and a database for storing an instruction, data, or information, for manufacturing, fabricating, forming, or repairing, an object of manufacture or a component. | 01-28-2016 |
20160046074 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROL OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING - An apparatus for controlling 3D printing includes an output determiner configured to determine, after generating a first control command to output a 3D object, whether an additional 3D object is able to be output through an output task for the 3D object, and a control command generator configured to generate a second control command to output a not-yet-output part of the 3D object and the additional 3D object if it is determined that the additional 3D object is able to be output through the output task. | 02-18-2016 |
20160059489 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING - The claimed subject matter includes techniques for printing a three-dimensional (3D) object. An example system includes a network interface to obtain a 3D model from a client system. The example system also includes a print bureau data collection engine to identify capabilities of a plurality of print bureaus. The example system also includes a print bureau filter to compare characteristics of the 3D model with capabilities of the plurality of print bureaus to identify a subset of the plurality print bureaus that are able to print the 3D model and send the subset to the client system via the network interface. | 03-03-2016 |
20160059490 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BUILDING PARTS - A system and method for building a part includes a universal member and a digital computer file for printing a custom member in a three dimensional printer. The universal member includes a first portion that abuts a second portion on the custom member when printed. The custom member is secured in the universal member to form a part. The universal member may be re-used and a new custom member printed if the needs of a customer change in the future. | 03-03-2016 |
20160074137 | REINFORCED ALIGNER HOOKS - Orthodontic positioning devices, and related methods and systems, are disclosed for use with one or more orthodontic elastic members. The disclosed devices are configured to couple with an orthodontic elastic member so as to react a force from the elastic member into the appliance to, for example, generate traction forces on the patient's teeth to produce a desired occlusion. A positioning device includes a patient removable tooth positioning appliance having teeth receiving cavities shaped to receive and apply a resilient positioning force to a patient's teeth. The appliance includes a hook configured to interface with an orthodontic elastic member. The hook can be configured to be offset from a surface of a tooth when the appliance is coupled with the patient's teeth and no elastic member is coupled with the tooth. The hook can be curved so that the hook is more retentive on the aligner. The hook can be reinforced so that the reinforcement resists deformation when the elastic is in place. | 03-17-2016 |
20160107390 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTER HAVING AN EXPANDABLE ENVELOPE - A computer program product includes a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith and executable by a processor to cause the processor to perform a method. The method includes a three-dimensional printer printing a first layer of an object onto a surface that is not part of the three-dimensional printer, wherein the first layer is printed while a printing platform of the three dimensional printer is in a first position. The printer is autonomously repositioned in a second position elevated above the first position by being supported either on the three-dimensional object itself or on a scaffold printed separate from the object. The printer prints a second layer of the three-dimensional object onto the first layer of the three-dimensional object while the printing platform is in the second position. The printer may have a plurality of legs for controllably repositioning the printing platform. | 04-21-2016 |
20160129640 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS, AND CONTROL PROGRAM OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS - Provided is a three-dimensional object formation apparatus including: a head unit which discharges a plurality of types of liquid including first liquid, second liquid, and third liquid, and forms dots with the discharged liquid; a curing unit which cures the dots; and a control unit which controls the head unit, in which the control unit controls the head unit so that the three-dimensional object which includes a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer and in which the first layer and the second layer are provided between the third layer and the outer surface of the three-dimensional object so as to separate the third layer and the outer surface of the three-dimensional object, and the second layer is provided between the first layer and the third layer so as to separate the first layer and the third layer, is formed. | 05-12-2016 |
20160129641 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS, THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION SYSTEM, CONTROL METHOD OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS, AND CONTROL PROGRAM OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT FORMATION APPARATUS - Provided is a three-dimensional object formation apparatus including: a head unit which discharges a plurality of types of liquid including first liquid including chromatic color material components and second liquid having a smaller number of color material components than that of the first liquid and forms dots with the discharged liquid; a curing unit which cures the dots; and a formation control unit which controls the head unit so that a three-dimensional object is formed with the cured dots, in which the formation control unit controls the head unit so that the three-dimensional object which includes a first layer liquid and a second layer and in which the second layer includes an outer surface of the three-dimensional object and is provided so as to separate the first layer and the outer surface of the three-dimensional object, is formed. | 05-12-2016 |
20160170387 | 3D PRINTER DEVICE, 3D PRINTING METHOD AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING STEREOLITHOGRAPHY PRODUCT | 06-16-2016 |
20160185048 | MULTI-SENSOR QUALITY INFERENCE AND CONTROL FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESSES - This invention teaches a multi-sensor quality inference system for additive manufacturing. This invention still further teaches a quality system that is capable of discerning and addressing three quality issues: i) process anomalies, or extreme unpredictable events uncorrelated to process inputs; ii) process variations, or difference between desired process parameters and actual operating conditions; and iii) material structure and properties, or the quality of the resultant material created by the Additive Manufacturing process. This invention further teaches experimental observations of the Additive Manufacturing process made only in a Lagrangian frame of reference. This invention even further teaches the use of the gathered sensor data to evaluate and control additive manufacturing operations in real time. | 06-30-2016 |
20160193790 | NEURO-FUZZY LOGIC FOR CONTROLLING MATERIAL ADDITION PROCESSES | 07-07-2016 |
20170232615 | TELEOPERATED ROBOT FOR FLOOD-WELDING OPERATIONS | 08-17-2017 |
20170232678 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROACTIVE HEATING-BASED CRACK PREVENTION IN 3D PRINTING | 08-17-2017 |
20190143586 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL PRIOR TO FUSION | 05-16-2019 |