Method and apparatus for fabrication of three-dimensional articles by weld deposition.

摘要

In a method and apparatus for forming a three-dimensional object, successive layers (2) of metal are welded together to build the object. After each weld deposited layer (2) is formed, a complementary material (6) is placed adjacent the layer. In this manner, layers of material form a block of welded metal and complementary material. Then, all or a portion of the complementary material (6) which serves as a support structure during forming, can be removed. The welded layers (2) are milled to a final shape either after each layer (2) is formed or after all layers (2) have been made. Existing CNC machines (20) can be easily modified to practice the method.