Multi-tool fabrication machine

Abstract

A self-configuring computer-controlled fabrication apparatus that utilizes no fewer than four user changeable tools concurrently installed to fabricate a three-dimensional component from digital design data out of a variety of materials using additive and/or subtractive methods. User interchangeable tools perform different tasks including paste extrusion, filament extrusion, inkjet deposition, laser curing, laser etching, milling, cooling, curing, inspection, and component placement, among others. Each tool, that is selected and installed by the user for each job, contains operational information regarding its performance in nonvolatile memory such that the system can read, then adapt, the build process to the set of tools currently installed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.