METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTINUOUS COMPOSITE THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING

摘要

A method and apparatus for the additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects are disclosed. Two or more materials are extruded simultaneously as a composite, with at least one material in liquid form and at least one material in a solid continuous strand completely encased within the liquid material. A means of curing the liquid material after extrusion hardens the composite. A part is constructed using a series of extruded composite paths. The strand material within the composite contains specific chemical, mechanical, or electrical characteristics that instill the object with enhanced capabilities not possible with only one material.

主权项

1. A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object, comprising:
directing a thermoplastic material into a nozzle; heating the nozzle to liquefy the thermoplastic material; directing a liquid curable material into the nozzle; directing a continuous strand material into the nozzle; discharging from the nozzle a path of composite material containing the continuous strand material at least partially coated with the liquefied thermoplastic material and the liquid curable material; and moving the nozzle during discharging.