Method for Layer-By-Layer Removal of Defects During Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

Surface and sub-surface defects are removed during additive manufacturing. After a layer of an object is formed in a powder bed, a portion of the layer is removed while the object is in the powder bed to remove surface and or sub-surface defects. The removal step may be performed on a layer-by-layer basis. A directed energy beam or tool may be used to remove a shallow object-powder interface portion of the layer, or a deeper skin portion of the layer. In this way, the completed object may be removed from the powder bed substantially free of surface roughness and sub-surface defects.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.