Apparatus for avoiding deposits on optical components in the laser sintering process

摘要

The present invention provides a process and an apparatus for the layer-by-layer production of three-dimensional objects, wherein material vapors formed during processing in the construction chamber are prevented from deposition on apparatus components by exposing the gases to deposition surfaces where the materials condense and deposit.

主权项

1. An apparatus for layer-by-layer production of three-dimensional objects, comprising:
a radiation source which emits an electromagnetic radiation; a control unit for control of a beam of the electromagnetic radiation; a lens in a path of the electromagnetic radiation beam; at least one deposition surface; and a construction chamber, the construction chamber comprising:
an adjustable-height construction platform,an apparatus for applying, onto the construction platform, a layer of a material hardenable by exposure to electromagnetic radiation during the production of three-dimensional objects on the construction platform, wherein the lens directs the beam of electromagnetic radiation to an object point of the layer of hardenable material on the construction platform, wherein vapours produced in the construction chamber during melting of the hardenable material circulate and is cooled in the construction chamber, thereafter condensing on the at least one deposition surface in a controlled manner, and wherein the at least one deposition surface is located within and outside the construction chamber and the at least one deposition surface is located at the top surface of the construction chamber.