초록 ▼

An apparatus includes a processor for controlling a build material dispenser and a dispenser positioner to construct a three-dimensional article in successive layers based upon article defining data, and wherein the processor operates the dispenser to dispense a series of bursts of build material at

An apparatus includes a processor for controlling a build material dispenser and a dispenser positioner to construct a three-dimensional article in successive layers based upon article defining data, and wherein the processor operates the dispenser to dispense a series of bursts of build material at a series of respective target positions as the dispenser is advanced along a predetermined path of travel. Each burst is defined by a plurality of droplets dispensed in relatively rapid succession so that the build material thereof combines at a respective target position. The build material dispenser is preferably a jet including a piezoelectric actuator for ejecting a droplet of build material responsive to a corresponding firing signal. Accordingly, the processor generates a predetermined number of firing signals for the piezoelectric actuator corresponding to a desired number of droplets in each burst. Method aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

대표청구항 ▼

A method for making a three-dimensional article based upon article defining data using an apparatus of a type including a platform, and a build material dispenser positioned adjacent the platform for dispensing build material in a plurality of droplets, said method comprising the steps of: advancing

A method for making a three-dimensional article based upon article defining data using an apparatus of a type including a platform, and a build material dispenser positioned adjacent the platform for dispensing build material in a plurality of droplets, said method comprising the steps of: advancing the dispenser along a predetermined path of travel with respect to the platform; and operating the dispenser to dispense a series of bursts of build material at a series of respective target positions to construct a continuous portion of the article as the dispenser is continuously advanced along the predetermined path of travel to thereby construct the article based upon the article defining data, each burst being defined by a plurality of successive droplets dispensed in relatively rapid succession to each other as compared to a last droplet in one burst and an initial droplet in a next succeeding burst so that the build material of the plurality of successive droplets of a burst combines at a respective target position.