Non-magnetodielectric flux concentrator

Abstract

The invention also provides a heating apparatus including a holder capable of holding at least one part, an electric current generator and a flux concentrator electrically connected to the electric current generator, the flux concentrator being made of a non-magneto-dielectric material and having a coil with at least one turn forming an inductor to generate an alternating magnetic field that is driven by the alternating electric field, the alternating magnetic field resonating at a frequency of at least 1 MHz in response to the alternating electric current.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 977,399, filed on Apr. 9, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Certain aspects of this invention were developed with support from the DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency). The U.S. Government may have rights in certain of these inventions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1). Field of the Invention[0004]This invention relates to a sintering apparatus and its use.[0005]2). Discussion of Related Art[0006]It has become common place to fabricate three-dimensional components using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) systems. State of the art solid freeform fabrication (SFF) methods span a number of technologies including stereolithography, 3D printing, selective laser sintering, direct metal deposition, electron beam melting, and microplasma powder deposition. ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a heating method using a flux concentrator made of non-magneto dielectric material with a coil that generates an alternating magnetic field. When an alternating electric current is passed through the flux concentrator, it resonates at a frequency of at least 1 MHz, providing efficient heating without the need for a magnet. The invention also includes a heating apparatus with the flux concentrator and a holder for holding parts. The technical effect of this invention is a fast and efficient way to heat non-metal parts without the need for a magnet.

Problems solved by technology

Thermoplastic-based SFF technologies allow designers to verify product design with three-dimensional models at an early stage, but are not capable of fabricating high-strength end products.

However, in both SLS and DMD technologies, the entire unfused components or particles that comprise the powdered material is heated indiscriminately by the high intensity laser beam.

In certain applications, such as when the powdered material includes a ceramic component, the laser may cause thermal decomposition of the ceramic part resulting in the degradation of the physical characteristics of the macroscopic part.

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