Method and apparatus for fabrication of casting from patterns
OwnerSteven M. Penn, Tommy D. Wrightinventors
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A stereolithography machine is employed to solidify a pattern including a series of stacked grids forming the pattern having an outer skin and inner labyrinth and any number of gates. The hollow pattern is mounted on a central sprue through runners at the gate of the pattern. The pattern is dipped in ceramic slurry and sifted in a refractor grain in order to coat the hollow pattern. The hollow pattern is melted to form a mold.
Claims13
A method for fabrication of casting patterns comprising the steps of:
- receiving an investment pattern having an outer skin, a fill riser and an inner labyrinth;
- curing said investment pattern in an ultraviolet oven;
- positioning said investment pattern on a support;
- coating said investment pattern in a coating solution;
- sifting said coated investment pattern in a refractory medium to form a mold;
- removing said investment pattern;
- filling said mold with casting material in order to form a casting;
- and
- removing said mold to release said casting.
A method for forming a pattern adapted to be used in the production of casting patterns, comprising the steps of:
- positioning a first grid to form a first portion of said pattern, said grid having a first cross section;
- positioning a second grid to form a second portion of said pattern, said grid having a second cross section;
- arranging said first and said second grid so that said second cross section is not aligned with said first cross section;
- and
- curing said pattern in an ultraviolet light source.
A investment pattern adapted to be used in the production of casting patterns, said investment pattern comprises:
- a first stack forming a portion of investment pattern, said first stack having a first cross section;
- a second stack forming a portion of the investment pattern, said second stack having a second cross section;
- a gate to drain said investment pattern, said first stack and said second stack being positioned adjacent so that liquid ultraviolet solution flows through said gate.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.