FILAMENT MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD

    公开(公告)号:US20220288859A1

    公开(公告)日:2022-09-15

    申请号:US17198869

    申请日:2021-03-11

    Abstract: A method of loading filament into a 3D printer that build parts by fused deposition modeling processes includes providing a 3D printer having a receptacle configured for accepting a plug-in connector from a filament supply. The method further includes providing a filament supply having a container configured to retain a supply of a filament, a filament guide tube having a length, an inlet end attached to the container and an outlet end, and a connector at the outlet end of the filament guide tube. The connector has a geometry allowing it to be plugged into the receptacle and comprises a conduit having an entrance for accepting the outlet end of the filament guide tube and an exit for passing the filament into the printer. The method includes causing a signal to be emitted proximate the receptacle such that when the plug-in connector is inserted into the receptable, light shines through the connector to inform the operator of a filament loading status.

    FILAMENT SUPPLY WITH SEALED CONNECTOR FOR USE WITH A 3D PRINTER

    公开(公告)号:US20200307070A1

    公开(公告)日:2020-10-01

    申请号:US16834804

    申请日:2020-03-30

    Abstract: A consumable assembly for supplying filament to a 3D printer having two or more receptacles having different geometric configurations, the 3D printer builds parts by material extrusion. The consumable assembly includes a container configured to retain a supply of a first filament, and a first filament guide tube having a length, the first filament guide tube having an inlet end attached to the first container and an outlet end, The consumable assembly includes a key having a geometric configuration allowing the key to be plugged into only one receptacle of the two or more receptacles of the 3D printer, the key comprising a conduit having an entrance and an exit, a coupling portion, and an engagement portion, wherein the entrance to the conduit is coupled to the outlet end of the first filament guide tube to thereby form a closed filament path from the first container to the 3D printer.

    3D PRINTER STATUS AND HEALTH MONITORING WITH ILLUMINATED STATUS DISPLAY INDICATOR

    公开(公告)号:US20240391175A1

    公开(公告)日:2024-11-28

    申请号:US18322201

    申请日:2023-05-23

    Abstract: A 3D printer includes a chamber configured to receive extruded material to print a part and a tool chamber above the chamber, the tool chamber comprising a viewing window and a tool rack. The 3D printer includes a plurality of print heads, each of the plurality of print heads residing in a docked position on the tool rack and when not in use. Each of the plurality of print heads comprising a illuminated status indicator configured to emit a plurality of signals indicative of a status or error of the print head or a status of the 3D printer, wherein the illuminated status indicator faces the viewing window and a plurality of sensors located on the print head or in the 3D printer and configured to detect a status of the print head or other printer components or an error in the print head or other printer components.

    SYSTEM FOR TRAY CLEANING AND RESIN COLLECTION IN AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS

    公开(公告)号:US20240165880A1

    公开(公告)日:2024-05-23

    申请号:US18213133

    申请日:2023-06-22

    CPC classification number: B29C64/357 B33Y40/20

    Abstract: One variation of a system includes a chassis: defining a set of platform mounts defining a pivot axis; and a slot arranged between the set of platform mounts and configured to transiently retain a filter receptacle below the pivot axis. The system further includes a tray platform: pivotably coupled to the set of platform mounts; defining a tray-receiving section configured to receive a tray defining a fluid release point and configured to retain a volume of resin; and defining a set of supports arranged about the tray-receiving section and configured to locate the fluid release point at the fixed pivot location. The system further includes a tray lock coupled to the platform and configured to transiently generate a magnetic field to draw the tray against the tray-receiving section and cooperate with the set of tray supports to constrain the fluid release point to the fixed pivot location.

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