Integratable assisted cooling system for precision extrusion deposition in the fabrication of 3D scaffolds

摘要

The present invention relates to an integrated Assisting Cooling (AC) device, system and method for use with PED devices, allowing use of biopolymers having higher melting points in the fabrication of 3D scaffolds. The AC device cools the filament as it is extruding from the nozzle via low flow convective cooling. The AC device allows for cooling in the +/− direction of motion on an XY plane. The AC device elevates with the material delivery chamber. The AC device allows for scaffold fabrication at applied temperatures as high as about 250° C.

主权项

1. A device for cooling a polymer filament extruded from a polymer extruder of a precision extrusion deposition system, comprising:
a flow line comprising a continuous loop having a hollow interior, at least one inlet providing access to the hollow interior of the continuous loop, and a plurality of outlets also accessing the hollow interior of the continuous loop; a mounting structure for attaching the device to the polymer extruder, the mounting structure dimensioned for mounting over the polymer extruder without interfacing or interfering with flow of the polymer filament; and at least one support connector for securely attaching the flow line to the mounting structure; wherein the plurality of outlets are angled towards a central radial axis of the device, such that when a cooling medium is introduced into the hollow interior of the continuous loop of the flow line via the at least one inlet and exits the flow line via the plurality of outlets, the cooling medium is directed towards the central radial axis of the device.