Inventors:
David B. Russell - Southboro MA
Timothy Anderson - Cambridge MA
James F. Bredt - Watertown MA
Michael J. Vogel - Concord MA
Walter J. Bornhorst - Boston MA
Assignee:
Z Corporation - Somerville MA
International Classification:
B29C 3104
US Classification:
264 28, 264109, 264308, 264113, 264128, 425130, 425210, 425215, 425218
Abstract:
A printer forms three-dimensional objects from a powder by selectively applying a binder liquid to incremental layers of the powder. The binder binds layers of the powder into solid two-dimensional cross sections of the desired object provided from memory. The printer can use dithering and halftoning techniques to shade the object and can also print in color. A filtration system removes airborne powder and recirculates the clean air. The printer also includes additional features to manage excess and airborne powder.