Patent ID: 7003997
Filing Date: 2006-02-28
Classification: B23P,B26D,B26F,B29C,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for reducing deformation along a contour cut, for use in a system for constructing a three-dimensional object out of a plurality of sheets, the deformation being a result of a cutting process whereby a ridge of sheet material forms along the contour cut, the ridge protruding above a top surface of the sheet, the method comprising: a) bonding at least a portion of an additional sheet to a top sheet of a stack of at least partially bonded together cut sheet, said additional sheet having a substantially planar top surface; b) moving a contour-cutting element along a contour line so as to make at least one contour cut through at least the top sheet of the stack; c) moving a deformation reduction component so as to follow the contour cut after said contour-cutting element has made at least a portion of the contour cut so as to substantially restore planarity of said planar top surface of said additional sheet: and d) repeating steps a–c until the three-dimensional object is completed.