Patent ID: 6851587
Filing Date: 2005-02-08
Classification: B22F,C23C,Y02P

Abstract:
1. A method for manufacturing a three-dimensional object by deposition of molten material in drops of varying size onto a substrate, wherein said method utilizes an apparatus comprising: a crucible for holding a reservoir of molten material; a conically-shaped orifice having a fixed outlet diameter disposed in the bottom of said crucible through which a jet of said molten material flows towards said substrate; and an oscillating mechanical member for breaking said flow of molten material into said molten material drops, said member having a conically-shaped head for cooperating with said orifice and for continuously varying the effective size of said orifice, said conically-shaped head comprising a slanted radial portion and a tip portion extending through the orifice, the effective diameter d wherein said method comprises: (i) providing molten material in the crucible of the apparatus; (ii) dispensing a let of said molten material through the conically shaped orifice of the apparatus; (iii) varying the slant angle of the conically-shaped head of the oscillating member to form drops of molten material of varying size; and (iv) depositing said drops of molten material onto a substrate to produce a three-dimensional object.