Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2018-2019
Title: Innovations of Chikara Inamura in Additive Manufacturing
Introduction
Chikara Inamura is a notable inventor based in Somerville, MA, who has made significant contributions to the field of additive manufacturing, particularly with molten glass. With a total of four patents to his name, Inamura's work focuses on innovative methods and apparatus that enhance the capabilities of 3D printing technologies.
Latest Patents
Inamura's latest patents include groundbreaking techniques for additive manufacturing with molten glass. One of his inventions involves a nozzle that deposits a filament of viscous, molten glass onto a rotating print bed. This print bed translates in multiple directions, while the deposition is computer-controlled to ensure the formation of a desired glass object that solidifies after annealing. The design prevents the extruded filament from experiencing damaging tensile and shear forces by maintaining a constant deposition direction relative to the nozzle.
Another significant patent describes methods and apparatus for additive manufacturing of glass. In this implementation, a crucible kiln heats the glass to keep it molten, while a nozzle extrudes the glass. The movements of the nozzle and build platform are actuated by a computer-controlled system, allowing for selective deposition of molten glass to create 3D glass objects. This process occurs within an annealing kiln, which further solidifies the glass after extrusion. Additionally, fluid flows through adjacent tubes to cool the nozzle tip, minimizing the amount of glass that adheres to it.
Career Highlights
Chikara Inamura is affiliated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he continues to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing technologies. His innovative approaches have garnered attention in the field and contribute to advancements in 3D printing applications.
Collaborations
Inamura has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Michael C. Stern and Peter Houk, who share a commitment to advancing research in additive manufacturing.
Conclusion
Chikara Inamura's work in additive manufacturing with molten glass represents a significant advancement in the field. His innovative patents and contributions to technology continue to inspire future developments in 3D printing.