초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for selectively sintering a layer of powder to produce a part comprising a plurality of sintered layers. The apparatus includes a computer controlling a laser to direct the laser energy onto the powder to produce a sintered mass. The computer either determines or is programmed

A method and apparatus for selectively sintering a layer of powder to produce a part comprising a plurality of sintered layers. The apparatus includes a computer controlling a laser to direct the laser energy onto the powder to produce a sintered mass. The computer either determines or is programmed with the boundaries of the desired cross-sectional regions of the part. For each cross-section, the aim of the laser beam is scanned over a layer of powder and the beam is switched on to sinter only the powder within the boundaries of the cross-section. Powder is applied and successive layers sintered until a completed part is formed. Preferably, the powder dispensing mechanism includes a drum which is moved horizontally across the target area and counter-rotated to smooth and distribute the powder in an even layer across the target area. A downdraft system provides controlled temperature air flow through the target area to moderate powder temperature during sintering.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for producing a part comprising: beam means for selectively emitting a directed energy beam; structure for providing a target area for producing the part; means for dispensing powder into said target area including, a drum, means for moving the drum from one end of the target area to th

An apparatus for producing a part comprising: beam means for selectively emitting a directed energy beam; structure for providing a target area for producing the part; means for dispensing powder into said target area including, a drum, means for moving the drum from one end of the target area to the other end, and means for counter-rotating the drum; means for directing air flow through the target area to moderate powder temperature; and control means for moving the aim of the beam and for modulating the beam means to selectively sinter within defined boundaries a layer of powder dispensed in said target area, the control means being operable to effect selective sintering of sequential layers of powder within respective defined boundaries to produce a part comprising a plurality of layers sintered together.