摘要:
The 3-D Model Maker (1) of the present invention is a device that builds three dimensional models of computer generated (e.g. CAD) structures by vector plotting layer-upon-layer applications of solidifiable substances. The layers are formed by expelling minuscule beads of the substances in liquid or flowable phase onto a platform (10) from one or more jets (60), the jets and platform being relatively movable in X, Y and Z coordinate system. The beads are deposited along vectors, during X/Y relative movement, on the platform (10), one at a time, layer-upon-layer, to build the model. The jets (60) and platform (10) are moved relatively to one another in accordance with instructions from the computer (controller) (11) to form each layer in the X-Y plane (in a manner analogous to an X-Y vector plotter) and either the platform (10) or the jets (60) may move in the Z direction to allow the jets to form subsquent layers.
摘要:
An apparatus and method for fabricating a three dimensional model from a composite model formed or a plurality of successive layers of model material and sacrificial mold material. Each successive layer is constructed by depositing, drop- by-drop, at least one line of sacrifical mold material delineating at least one boundary of the model material within the layer and thereafter depositing the model material onto all delineated regions of the layer by spray deposition. Each successive layer is completed by a planing process which removes the undesired thickness of both the sacrificial and the model materials. Following completion of the composite model, the sacrificial mold material is removable from the composite model, by a process effecting only the sacrificial mold material, to produce the three dimensional model. A device, for depositing the model material at the rate faster than the rate that the mold material is deposited, is also described.