System and method for direct inkjet printing of 3D objects

Abstract

A direct inkjet printing system for fabricating a part by an additive manufacturing process includes an ink delivery system operative to circulate the ink, a printhead associated with the ink delivery system, the printhead operative to dispense ink from the ink delivery system through a plurality of nozzles and based on a defined pattern, a building table for receiving the dispensed ink one layer at a time based on the defined pattern, wherein the part is formed from a plurality of layers of the ink dispensed from the printhead and a drying station operative to perform a drying process on layers of the ink dispensed from the printhead on a per layer basis.

Description

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to additive manufacturing and / or 3D printing and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to 3D printing for rapid manufacturing.[0002]A number of different processes for fabricating solid objects by 3D printing are known. Typically, the processes successively print layers of material in different shapes based on a 3D model of the object. The different processes typically differ in the way layers are deposited and in the materials that can be used.[0003]U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,728 entitled “Mass production of dental restorations by solid free-form fabrication methods,” the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference, describes processes for manufacturing dental restorations. One process includes ink-jet printing a binder into selected areas of sequentially deposited layers of powder. Each layer is created by spreading a thin layer of powder over the surface of a powder bed. I...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text explains that the terms used have their usual meaning in the relevant art. The methods and materials provided are examples to aid in understanding, but other similar methods and materials may also be used. The patent text should be followed in case of any conflict with other sources. The examples provided are not intended to be limiting.

Problems solved by technology

One source of operation failure of inkjet printers used for printing on paper can be caused by sedimentation and evaporation of components in the ink being dispensed through the nozzles and / or orifices.

For example during periods of non-use, the ink that is retained in the print head may deteriorate and lead to sedimentation of solid particles.

This may lead to a change in viscosity of the ink in the vicinity of the nozzle, having a negative effect on its jetting properties.

Sedimentation and evaporation may potentially lead to a nozzle fall out or nozzle blockage.

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