The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 02, 2003
Filed:
Jan. 17, 2002
Charles W. Hull, Santa Clarita, CA (US);
Kenneth J. Newell, Valencia, CA (US);
3D Systems, Inc., Valencia, CA (US);
Abstract
A method of applying highly viscous paste-like build materials in layers in a solid freeform fabrication apparatus to form three-dimensional objects. A viscosity modifier is first introduced into the build material to establish a low viscosity state and then the material is dispensed in layers on a working surface. The viscosity modifier is then removed from the build material preferably by evaporation, and the layer is selectively solidified to form the three-dimensional object. The method substantially eliminates the undesirable effects of induced shear stress imposed on lower layers when attempting to apply uniform layers of highly viscous materials in solid freeform fabrication techniques. The method allows for the use of highly viscous paste-like materials that can include upwards of 50% by weight of metallic, ceramic, mineral, or polymer powders. Preferably the binder is a photocurable resin or thermocurable material which is selectively solidified to form the three-dimensional objects.