Method and apparatus for making three-dimensional objects
AssigneeN.C.T. Limited
InventorMichael Berman
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method of making a three-dimensional object constituted of a large number of layers bonded together, each having the contour of a thin slice of the object, is characterized in that each layer is precisely contoured after having been bonded to the partially-built three-dimensional object but before the next succeeding layer is bonded to it. Each layer is a preformed sheet and is bonded to the partially-built object by applying an adhesive at locations within the confines of the contour of the area of contact between the layer to be bonded and the object, such that the portions of the sheet outside of the contour of the contact area are easily separated.
Claims27
A method of making a three-dimensional object constituted of a large number of layers bonded together each having the contour of a thin slice of the three-dimensional object;
- characterized in that each layer is bonded to the preceding layer to produce a partially-built three-dimensional object and, when at least one such layer has been bonded to the partially-built three-dimensional object, said at least one layer is precisely contoured, by a cutting operation, before the next succeeding layer is bonded thereto.
Apparatus for making a three-dimensional object constituted of a large number of thin layers bonded together each having the contour of a thin slice of the object, comprising:
- a supporting member for supporting the object being made;
- a layer-applying means for applying and bonding each layer to the partially-built three-dimensional objects as it is being made;
- and
- contouring means for removing excess material form each layer beyond its contour after at least one of said layers has been applied and bonded to produce a partially-built three-dimensional object and before the next succeeding layer is applied and bonded thereto.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.