MULTI-MATERIAL THREE DIMENSIONAL PRINTER

摘要

A layer of a first powder is dispensed in a layer over a build plate. Binder is then selectively applied to hold portions of the layer of first powder together. Unbound first powder is then removed. A second powder is then dispensed in a layer over the build plate and portions of the bound first powder above the build plate. Binder is then selectively applied to hold portions of the second powder together. Unbound second powder is then removed. A third or more different powders can be similarly dispensed and bound to complete a multi-material layer. The process is then be repeated on a next subsequent layer. A curing radiation source can accelerate binding of powder together. Voids can be formed in portions of the layers by dispensing a fugitive material in portions of each multi-material layer. Mechanisms for implementing the printing process are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A multi-material three dimensional printer, comprising in combination:
a build plate; a first powder dispenser movable over at least portions of said build plate to place a first powder layer above said build plate; a binder jet movable over at least portions of said build plate to place binder and bind the first powder together in locations where the binder is placed; a first powder remover movable over at least portions of said build plate to remove unbound first powder in the first powder layer; and a second powder dispenser movable over at least portions of said build plate to place a second powder layer above said build plate, the second powder different from the first powder.