Sled configurations and methods of operation for the manufacture of three-dimensional objects

Abstract

Apparatus () for manufacturing a three-dimensional object from a powder, the apparatus () comprising: a build bed () having a build area (), wherein successive layers of said three-dimensional object are formed in the build bed (); a powder distribution sled () operable to distribute a layer of powder within the build area (), the powder distribution sled () being driveable in a first direction along a first axis, across the build area (), and driveable in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, along the first axis; and a print sled () operable to deposit a pattern of fluid onto the layer of powder within the build area () to define the cross section of said object in said layer, the print sled () being driveable in the first direction along a second axis across the build area, and driveable in the second direction along the second axis; wherein the first axis is parallel to, or coaxial with, the second axis; wherein the print sled () comprises one or more droplet deposition heads () for depositing the fluid, a first radiation source assembly (L), and a second radiation source assembly (L); wherein the powder distribution sled () comprises a powder distribution device () for distributing the powder, a third radiation source assembly (L) and a fourth radiation source assembly (L); and wherein each of the first, second, third and fourth radiation source assemblies is operable to both preheat and sinter powder within the build area (). A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object from a powder using such apparatus is also provided.