Z Corporation

3d Systems, Inc.

Andrew Berlin

Joshua P Kinsley

Walter Henry Zengerle, Iii

David B Russell

Andres Tomas Hernandez

Benjamin Daniel Sweet-Block

Thomas Davidson

Robert Anthony Phillips

Kevin Roche

Darul Kisai

William Fienup

Andres T Hernandes

Dmitriy Katalichenko

Chris Korda

Walter H Zengerle Iii

The invention relates to apparatus and methods for producing three-dimensional objects and auxiliary systems used in conjunction with the aforementioned apparatus and methods. The apparatus and methods involve 3D printing and servicing of the equipment used in the associated 3D printer.

Apparatus and methods for servicing 3D printers

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.

Three-dimensional printer

The invention relates to apparatus and methods for producing three-dimensional objects and auxiliary systems used in conjunction with the aforementioned apparatus and methods. The apparatus and methods involve continuously printing radially about a circular and/or rotating build table using multiple printheads. The apparatus and methods also include optionally using multiple build tables. The auxiliary systems relate to build material supply printhead cleaning diagnostics, and monitoring operation of the apparatus.

Apparatus and methods for 3D printing

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Gloucester, MA, United States of America

Andrew Berlin