MODULAR USER-CONFIGURABLE MULTI-PART 3D LAYERING SYSTEM AND HOT END ASSEMBLY

摘要

Apparatus and associated methods for a user configurable modular 3D layering system provide a modular frame assembly, and two or more deposition print heads that are user-configurably disposed along an X-axis carriage drive system. A deposition-receiving tray may have a configurable Z-axis throw. In an exemplary embodiment, an X-axis carriage drive system may include one or more sensors for detecting a starting position of the print heads. For example, the sensor may be a micro-switch engageable by one or more print heads. In an exemplary embodiment, the print heads are removable from the X-axis carriage assembly. In some embodiments, each print head may operate independently of adjacent print heads. In an exemplary embodiment, each print head may include an injection nozzle for depositing the filament. In some embodiments, a y-carriage assembly may include a height sensor for the tray.

主权项

1. A layer deposition system to form a plurality of 3D products simultaneously, the system comprising:
a deposition frame housing having first opposing lateral members extending orthogonal to a first axis, and second opposing lateral members extending orthogonal to a second axis coplanar with and orthogonal to the first axis; a carriage assembly extending between the first opposing lateral members and parallel to the first axis; a substrate surface extending between the first opposing lateral members and between the second opposing lateral members; a plurality of deposition modules releasably coupled to the carriage assembly, each separated from adjacent ones of the plurality of deposition modules by user-predetermined spacings, and operable to deposit material through a nozzle to form a three dimensional product supported by the substrate surface; a first axis drive coupled to synchronously displace the plurality of deposition modules a predetermined distance along the first axis; a second axis drive coupled to synchronously displace the plurality of deposition modules a predetermined distance along the second axis; and, a third axis drive couple to synchronously create a relative displacement between each of the plurality of deposition modules and the substrate surface along a third axis orthogonal to both the first axis and the second axis.