Abstract:
An apparatus and method for removing support material from a part formed by three-dimensional (3D) printing. The support removal machine contains a tank for submersion of a 3D printed part into a liquid mass. The liquid mass circulates in the tank in a controlled manner such that submerged parts remain centrally suspended in the tank, regardless of the material, density and geometry comprising the part. The part circulates and rotates in conjunction with the rotational flow of the liquid mass for uniform exposure to means of support removal. During rotation, the part may be subjected to multiple means of agitation that include heat, chemical and ultrasonic, in order to optimize energy use and maximize efficiency of the removal of support material.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefits of U.S. provisional application No. 62/344,122, filed Jun. 1, 2016 and entitled SUPPORT REMOVAL APPARATUS, which provisional application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure pertains generally to an apparatus and method for removing support material from a part formed by three-dimensional printing. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Various systems exist for removing support material from a 3D printed part. These systems often relate to methods for agitating a 3D printed part in a liquid media designed to erode support material surrounding the part. Additional known methods of support removal for three dimensional objects include raising and lowering temperature in a support removal tank to melt the support material, where the support material has a lower melting point than the part. Known systems may utilize a single tank into which the raw part is submerged, or they may include multiple tanks having different properties, including differing temperature or liquids. 
         [0004]    U.S. Pat. No. 8,636,850 to Narovlyansky discloses a method for removing the support structures from 3D objects using a liquid jet. The &#39;850 process generally involves inserting two or more objects made by solid freeform fabrication into a cell having an inlet to receive a high-pressure liquid jet located at a top side of the cell and a plurality of draining perforations at the circumferential wall of the cell. 
         [0005]    U.S. Pat. No. 8,459,280 to Swanson discloses a support structure removal system comprising a reservoir tank and base unit. The vessel comprises a vessel body, a porous floor configured to retain a 3D part, and an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor. The impeller is rotated under magnetic force to agitate the solution around the part. Further, the tank may have a means for adjusting pH and temperature to promote support removal. 
         [0006]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,546,841 to Tafoya discloses a device for support removal using liquid agitation and heat in a tank. Communication between a thermocouple in the tank and a microprocessor monitors the temperature in the tank and adjusts conditions accordingly. 
         [0007]    The above systems often require manual adjustment throughout the process to adjust for various parts. The above systems may be optimally designed for certain types of parts, and may work well for parts of known and tested sizes, shapes and materials. However, when new types of parts are introduced to the system, much adjustment in setting parameters such as heat, pH, and time is required on the part of the operator to optimize efficient use of energy and time. 
         [0008]    Therefore, the drawbacks of the current support removal systems include a lack of efficiency when used for a wide variety of parts. Further, movement of the center of mass of the part throughout the tank increases inefficiency and provides an opportunity for delicate parts to collide with the walls of the tank or components of the machine. Such collisions may cause the part to fracture, and also increase inefficiency through uncontrolled movement within the tank. 
         [0009]    Efficient support removal for a wide variety of materials and part shapes and sizes requires a system that is responsive to changes in the part and the working environment surrounding the part. Further, a system is desired that can measure the parameters of the part, either directly or indirectly, and adjust automatically to unique properties of each part. Therefore, a need exists for a support removal machine that can efficiently handle the wide and expanding variety of part types encountered in the fast-growing field of three dimensional printing. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0010]    In the present disclosure, a solution to the problems of existing support removal devices is provided through a machine design that maximizes energy efficiency. The present disclosure describes a support removal machine that responds automatically to changing conditions within a tank and structural changes in the part while maintaining the part in optimal location within the tank for support removal. The continuous regulation of part motion and tank parameters, through a novel combination of liquid flow, heat, ultrasonic radiation, and measurement capabilities, maximizes the use of energy and minimizes damage to the part. 
         [0011]    Hydraulic pressure oscillates and suspends a 3D printed part while interrogating with ultrasonic frequencies. A key functional feature of the present disclosure is the ability to maintain the position of the part in a generally central location in the tank. This is accomplished through the use of manifolds positioned at specific locations throughout the tank to create a rotational liquid flow that creates liquid current that sinks parts that would otherwise float and floats parts that would otherwise sink. Under these rotational flow conditions, parts are centrally located submerged in the tank and rotate along with the flow of the liquid. In one embodiment, one or more manifolds may be located at the bottom of the tank along with one on the weir wall. The locations of the pump connected to the manifolds allows for the use of commercially available pumps, rather than custom built pumps, because the manifolds were designed around the pumps. 
         [0012]    Rotation of the part within the liquid mass creates friction between the materials in the liquid mass and the part, thereby causing support removal. Support removal is enhanced by ultrasonic transducers placed tangentially in the tank to the rotating object. The ultrasonic generators create heat within the designated liquid mass within the tank, which enhances support removal, while also causing cavitation through direct interaction with the rotating part. The part generally circulates around a central point in a tank, and the part itself rotates. The motion of the part in the tank creates a controlled agitation. As the part spins and circulates within the mass, each aspect of the part is exposed to the ultrasonic waves, thereby creating a synergistic effect in support removal through the circulatory and rotational effects of part motion and the ultrasonic enhancement of support destruction. 
         [0013]    The ultrasonic interrogation of the part creates heat and cavitation in a generally uniform manner across the part. However, a heating unit in the tank is also used to generate heat for support removal. The heating unit and the ultrasonic generator operate in harmony, such that when the ultrasonic generator needs to be dialed down, the heater can compensate by maintaining the heat of the mass at an optimal level. An advantage of using ultrasonic radiation resulting cavitation of the liquid mass, which a heater and pump will not create. Overuse of an ultrasonic device can degrade the liquid mass such that the fluid becomes exhausted. The part material is energy sensitive to deformation or delaminating so the constant optimization of energy use with regard to an ultrasonic component is important. 
         [0014]    The use of an ultrasonic transducer has dual effects, such that the ultrasonic transducer may be considered more of a mixing component for the liquid mass rather than a heater. While heating with an ultrasonic transducer may require more energy than the use of a standard heating unit, the ultrasonic transducer has multiple effects due to the particular effect of ultrasonic radiation on the parts. While regulating the work that the ultrasonic transducer is doing, the device is characterizing. Ultrasonic radiation affects the surface of the part microscopically by causing vibration, thus, the work being done by the ultrasonic generator goes beyond heat alone, and creates a synergistic effect on support removal, causing the removal of support material in less time. 
         [0015]    Another important feature of the support removal machine of the present disclosure is the inclusion of two linked tanks, an output, or part-containing tank, and an input tank. The liquid mass, which may be a detergent, flows from the bottom of the input tank through a manifold into the output tank, generating a pressure and rotational flow within the output tank. Importantly, there is no suction means to withdraw fluid from the output tank during operation. Fluid from the output tank continually flows from the output tank back into the input tank over a weir at the top of the outflow tank. 
         [0016]    Therefore, the liquid level of the input tank is below that of the output tank, allowing the liquid mass to be discharged from the output tank over barrier between the output tank and the input tank, thereby forming a weir. The weir provides both oxygenation and cooling to the liquid mass; essential functions in maintaining optimal conditions for support removal. The wall separating the two tanks that allow formation of the weir is important because it allows for simultaneous oxygenation and temperature reductions, without the inclusion of additional costly or energy consuming features to regulate these parameters. The liquid mass and the weir cascade rely on the properties of each to maintain a proper balance of oxygenation, pH and evaporation. The machine and liquid mass have been thoroughly tested to optimize the interaction between the weir and the liquid mass. 
         [0017]    Through use of the machine, the liquid mass is consumed, and is eventually required to be replaced. Throughout use, however, the level of liquid mass in the output tank is maintained, and kept full. As the liquid mass is consumed, the liquid level of the inflow tank decreases. Once the level decreases to a certain point, a liquid level sensor in the inflow tank is triggered, signaling the operator to replenish the liquid mass. Unlike other support removal machines and systems, the support removal machine of the present disclosure does not require the user to empty and refill the tank, rather, the conditions of the liquid mass are calibrated such that refilling the inflow tank when the level is decreased to a set point is sufficient to maintain operation of the system virtually indefinitely. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0018]    Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein: 
           [0019]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of the support removal machine in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0020]      FIG. 2  shows a cross-sectional side view of the support removal machine in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0021]      FIGS. 3A-C  show a side perspective, magnified and cross sectional view, respectively, of the manifold and nozzle orifice within the support removal machine in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0022]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  show side perspective views of the manifold and nozzle orifices in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0023]      FIG. 5  shows a side perspective view of tank drains and cleanout ports in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0024]      FIG. 6  shows a side perspective view the pump and manifold in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0025]      FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional rear view of the support removal machine in accordance with the present disclosure. 
           [0026]      FIG. 8  shows a cross-sectional side view of a part at is rotates within a chamber in accordance with the present disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0027]    In the following description, the various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. However, such details are included to facilitate understanding of the invention and to describe exemplary embodiments for implementing the invention. Such details should not be used to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described because other variations and embodiments are possible while staying within the scope of the invention. 
         [0028]    Furthermore, although numerous details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required in order to practice the present invention. In other instances details such as, well-known methods, types of data, protocols, procedures, components, networking equipment, processes, interfaces, electrical structures, circuits, etc. are not described in detail, or are shown in block diagram form, in order not to obscure the present invention. 
         [0029]    The terms “support”, “support material” and “support structure” as used throughout the specification and claims should be construed in their broadest interpretation to include any material or materials used for provisional support during fabrication of a 3D object and that is not part of the three-dimensional object. The support may include materials that are different than the modeling materials used to fabricate the 3D object or a combination of modeling materials and materials that are different than the modeling materials used to fabricate the 3D object. 
         [0030]    Referring now to  FIG. 1 , one embodiment of a support removal machine in accordance with the present invention is shown. Support removal machine has a lid  10 , which an operator may open to allow placement of a 3D part  40  (shown in  FIG. 8 ) having support material. Control panel  12  allows a user to input initial pre-determined parameters such as temperature and time. Front panel  8  may be opened to allow access to the tanks, pump, and other internal components of support removal machine  100 . 
         [0031]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a cross-sectional side view shows various components essential to support removal machine  100 . When part  40  is placed into support removal machine  100  through lid  10 , it enters output tank  16 , which may be alternatively referred to as a part-containing tank  16 , wherein the part  40  may be contained in parts basket  24 . Output tank  16  is filled with a liquid mass  28  which flows circularly from input tank  18  in response to activation of a pump  30  (shown in  FIG. 3A ), which causes the liquid mass  28  to flow under pressure from tank manifold  14 . In some embodiments, there may only be a single tank, which may be referred to as a part-containing tank  16 . PC  13  is shown centrally located in control panel  12 . Ultrasonic generator  70  is shown below output tank  16 . 
         [0032]    During operation of support removal machine  100 , energy of liquid mass  28  may be regulated, and oxygenation, or aeration, of liquid mass  28  may maintain proper chemistry. To avoid introducing additional components to oxygenate (aerate) and decrease temperature when necessary, a weir  20  may exist between output tank  16  and input tank  18 . Weir  20  may be comprised of a wall  36 , or attenuating wall for its effect on ultrasound, between output tank  16  and input tank  18 . The flow of liquid mass  28  from output tank  16  to a lower point in input tank  18  over wall  36  creates a passive system for achieving proper temperature and oxygenation states in the liquid mass. A positive pressure in output tank  16  created by flow into output tank  16  from pump  30  generates an overflow across wall  36  without a need for active suction from output tank  16 , thus creating a system that eliminates the potential for damage to part  40  caused by suction from output tank  16 . There is a negative pressure in input tank  18  that corresponds to the positive pressure in output tank  16 . During operation of support removal machine  100  the liquid mass will naturally evaporate. Liquid level sensor  26  which in some embodiments may be continuous, notifies a user when the liquid mass  28  level needs maintenance. An alternative embodiment may comprise one tank or multiple tanks. 
         [0033]    In a preferred embodiment, a feature of the support removal machine  100  of the present disclosure is the inclusion of two linked tanks, output tank  16  and an input tank  18 , wherein the output tank  16  contains part  40  and the input tank  18  may contain a conditioned liquid mass  28 . In the preferred embodiment, liquid mass  28 , which may be a detergent, is pumped through a pump  30  from a lower area of input tank  18  through multiple manifolds  14  into output tank  16 , generating a hydraulic pressure and rotational flow within output tank  16 . In a preferred embodiment, pump  30  is positioned below input tank  18 . The location of pump  30  may be important because, in one embodiment, pump  30  is not self-priming, and therefore, requires liquid mass  28  to be pumped to feed into pump  30  above the pump inlet. Manifolds  14  are positioned to be capable of directing a flow of liquid mass  28  in order to create a circularized flow, or vortex, in output tank  16 . This flow allows for uniform exposure of all aspects of the part  40  to means of support removal, including, but not limited to, ultrasound, heat, and chemical treatment. In a preferred embodiment, no means of suction exists for withdrawal of liquid mass  28  from output tank  16  into input tank  18  during operation. Liquid mass  28 , in a preferred embodiment, flows over the weir  20  as liquid mass  28  is pumped from input tank  14  to output tank  16 . In a preferred embodiment, pump  30  is a magnetically coupled centrifugal pump. Pump  30  may be placed at a location beneath the level of the input tank  18  or output tank  16 . In one embodiment, pump  30  has a motor that operates at 50/60 Hz and is not adjusted. 
         [0034]    In the preferred embodiment, input tank liquid level  19  is below that of the output tank  16 , allowing the liquid mass  28  to be discharged from the output tank  16  over a wall  36  between the output tank  16  and the input tank  18 , thereby forming a weir  20 . Weir  20  has a wall  36  to separate liquid mass  28  between output tank  16  and input tank  18 . The weir  20  should be located just above upper manifold  14 , allowing the rotational flow to continue within the output tank  16 , while allowing liquid mass  28  to flow over weir  20  in a laminar fashion. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between liquid mass  28  level in the output tank  16  and the liquid level in input tank  18  may be between 2 inches and 12 inches. 
         [0035]    Weir  20  provides both oxygenation and cooling to liquid mass  28 , which are essential functions in maintaining optimal conditions for support removal. The cooling effect of weir  20  allows temperature of liquid mass  28  to be controlled with much tighter tolerances, even at low temperature settings. Weir  20  therefore allows the user to process delicate parts  40  that would normally be in danger of being damaged or altered due to temperature overshoot. Wall  36 , which separates output tank  16  and input tank  18  to form weir  20  allows for simultaneous oxygenation, or aeration, and temperature reductions without the inclusion of additional costly or energy consuming features to regulate these parameters. Liquid mass  28  and weir  20  create a cascade to regulate oxygenation, pH and evaporation. Parameters of weir  20  have been optimized for efficiency of support removal. 
         [0036]    As liquid mass  28  is consumed or exhausted through evaporation, mechanical, or chemical or other means, the consumed portion may require replacement. The level of liquid mass  28  in output tank  16  and input tank  18  is therefore monitored and maintained. As the liquid mass  28  is consumed, the liquid level of the input tank  18  decreases. Once the liquid mass  28  level in input tank  18  decreases to a certain point, a liquid level sensor  26 , which may be a continuous liquid level sensor, in input tank  18  is triggered, signaling the operator to replenish or restore liquid mass  28 . Unlike other support removal machines and systems, the support removal machine  100  of the present disclosure may not require the user to empty and refill the system completely, rather, the conditions of the liquid mass  28  are calibrated such that refilling the system when the level of liquid mass  28  is decreased to a set point may be sufficient to maintain operation of the system indefinitely. 
         [0037]    Support removal machine  100  may respond automatically to changing conditions within output tank  16  and input tank  18 , and structural changes in the part  40 , while maintaining part  40  in an optimal location within output tank  40  for support removal. The continuous regulation of the position, circulation, and rotation of part  40  occurs in response to output tank  16  parameters, subject to a combination of parameters including liquid mass  28  flow, heat, ultrasound, and measurement capabilities, such that the use of energy in support removal machine  100  is maximized and damage to part  40  is minimized. 
         [0038]    The flow of liquid mass  28 , generated as liquid mass  28  passes through a set of tank manifolds  14 , is generally rotational such that the liquid mass  28  is a vortex and that part  40  does not, due to the rotational flow of liquid mass  28 , generally contact the surface of liquid mass  28 . The position of manifolds  14  and the direction of the flow of liquid mass  28  generated from manifolds  14  creates a vortex that suspends part  40  between a surface of the liquid mass  28  and a bottom and sides of output tank  16 . In an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, a single tank having a pump may generate flow to effectively rotate part  40  in a single chamber. 
         [0039]    Referring now to  FIGS. 3A-C , manifolds  14  and nozzle orifices  34  are shown. The position of the manifolds  14  within output tank  16  is important in creating a circular flow of liquid mass  28 .  FIG. 3C  shows a continuous level sensor  39 , which floats to convey liquid mass level in input tank  18 . Sedimentation plate  37  is shown in  FIG. 3C . 
         [0040]    As shown in  FIGS. 3A-C , and  4 A and  4 B, in a preferred embodiment, three manifolds  14  are positioned symmetrically around the output tank, where each manifold  14  is positioned along a different surface of output tank  14  at a junction between two sides of output tank  16 . Two manifolds  14  are positioned on opposite sides, a first and second side, of output tank  14  (as shown in  FIG. 4A  where nozzle orifices  34  are positioned at 90 degrees on manifolds adjacent opposite sides of output tank  16 ). Adjacent manifolds  14  have a series of in-line nozzle orifices  34 , wherein nozzle orifices  34  are offset 90 degrees on each adjacent manifold  14 , such that the nozzle orifices  34  project liquid mass  28  parallel to adjacent sides, resulting in a rotational flow of liquid mass  28  in three directions at generally 90 degree angles along three sides of output tank  90 . This arrangement of manifolds  14  and orifice nozzles  34  induces a circular, rotational flow of liquid mass  28  and creates a vortex within the output tank  16 . Each manifold  14  may extend the entire width of output tank  16  and may contain a varied number of nozzle orifices  34  along manifold  14 , although embodiments may vary. In a preferred embodiment, the number of nozzle orifices  34 , each aligned in-line along manifold  14 , is five. The number of manifolds  14  may be important in order to create appropriate pressure on liquid mass  28  in order to produce appropriate rotational flow to maintain part  40  in a central location in output tank  16 . In a preferred embodiment, each manifold  14  is fed liquid mass  28  from the pump  30  with equal pressure from pump  30  through manifold inlet  42 , as shown in  FIG. 4B . The apparatus and method of the present disclosure may not be limited to a particular number of tanks. Manifolds  14  may extend laterally along the junction between sides of output tank  16 . 
         [0041]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the manifolds are shown. The manifold  14  has a nozzle orifice  34 . The diameter of nozzle orifice  34  may vary depending on the desired conditions for optimizing liquid mass  28  pressure for support removal. Manifolds  14  and nozzle orifices  34  are positioned generally symmetrically around output tank  16  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ) and approximately at an edge along sides or side junctions of output tank  16  in order to propel liquid mass  28  in a plane with sides of output tank  16  such that a vortex is generated to maintain the position of the part  40  centrally within output tank  16  (see  FIG. 8 ). Table 1 shows how orifice size effects flow of liquid mass  28 . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Max Jet Velocity (ft/s) 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Distance  
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 From  
                  1/16″ 
                 ⅛″ 
                  3/16″ 
                 ¼″ 
               
               
                 Orifice (in.) 
                 Orifices 
                 Orifices 
                 Orifices 
                 Orifices 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 0 
                 69.71694 
                 17.42923 
                 7.746327 
                 4.357309 
               
               
                 1 
                 43.57309 
                 10.89327 
                 4.841454 
                 2.723318 
               
               
                 2 
                 21.78654 
                 5.446636 
                 2.420727 
                 1.361659 
               
               
                 3 
                 14.52436 
                 3.631091 
                 1.613818 
                 0.907773 
               
               
                 4 
                 10.89327 
                 2.723318 
                 1.210364 
                 0.680829 
               
               
                 5 
                 8.714617 
                 2.178654 
                 0.968291 
                 0.544664 
               
               
                 6 
                 7.262181 
                 1.815545 
                 0.806909 
                 0.453886 
               
               
                 7 
                 6.224727 
                 1.556182 
                 0.691636 
                 0.389045 
               
               
                 8 
                 5.446636 
                 1.361659 
                 0.605182 
                 0.340415 
               
               
                 9 
                 4.841454 
                 1.210364 
                 0.537939 
                 0.302591 
               
               
                 10 
                 4.357309 
                 1.089327 
                 0.484145 
                 0.272332 
               
               
                 11 
                 3.96119 
                 0.990297 
                 0.440132 
                 0.247574 
               
               
                 12 
                 3.631091 
                 0.907773 
                 0.403455 
                 0.226943 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0042]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , overflow tank drain  52  is shown. Sediment tank drain  54  is shown. Cleanout ports  56  are shown. The number of outlets for each purpose is not limiting. 
         [0043]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , pump  30  and manifolds  14  are shown. 
         [0044]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a cross-sectional rear view shows mechanisms for pumping and filtering the liquid mass  28 . Filter  32  removes particulate matter generated during support removal as pieces of the support break apart. Pump  30  generates the pressure that forces the liquid through tank manifolds  14 . Pump  30  may be a commercially available pump, when used with the support removal machine  100  of the present disclosure, and would not require a custom build. The present disclosure is not limited to commercially available pumps. Pump  30  generates sufficient pressure, without the need for suction within the output tank  16 , to provide rotational flow such that the part is maintained in a centrally located position within output tank  16 . Ultrasonic generator  70 , or ultrasonic motor, supplies power for ultrasonic transducers, which may number between 16-24 without limitation. 
         [0045]    Hydraulic pressure oscillates and suspends a 3D printed part while interrogating with ultrasonic frequencies. A key functional feature of the present disclosure is the ability to maintain the position of the part  40  in a generally central location in output tank  16 . Maintaining position of part  40  is accomplished through the use of manifolds  14  positioned at locations throughout tank  40  to create a rotational liquid flow, or vortex, that creates liquid current to sinks a part  40  that would otherwise float and to float a part  40  that would otherwise sink. Under the rotational flow conditions generated by the apparatus and method of the present disclosure, a part  40  is centrally located, submerged in a tank and circulated around a central axis of the tank, along with being rotating around an axis of the part  40 . In one embodiment, one or more manifolds may be positioned on the walls of the tank at certain locations along output tank  16  including one position immediately adjacent to weir  20  on wall  36 . The location of pump  30 , connected to the manifolds  14 , allows for the use of commercially available pumps, rather than custom built pumps, because the manifolds were designed around the performance, or operating abilities, of the pumps. However, custom built pumps are contemplated within the present disclosure. 
         [0046]    Rotation of part  40  within the liquid mass  28  creates friction between the materials in the liquid mass  28  and the part  40 , resulting in support removal. In one embodiment, support removal is enhanced by ultrasonic transducers  22  placed tangentially in output tank  16  with respect to rotating part  40 . Ultrasonic generator  42  creates heat in liquid mass  28  within output tank  16 , which causes support removal through multiple direct and indirect means, while also causing cavitation through direct interaction with the rotating part  40 . As the part  40  spins within the liquid mass  28 , each aspect of part  40  is exposed to ultrasound, thereby creating a synergistic effect in support removal through rotational effects in liquid mass  28  and the ultrasonic enhancement of support removal. 
         [0047]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a cross-sectional side view shows the flow of liquid mass  28  during pumping by pump  30 , as indicated by the curved arrows in output tank  16 , along with the concomitant rotation of 3D printed part  40 . As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , as 3D printed part  40  rotates in the center of output tank  16 , different surfaces of 3D part  40  are exposed to tangential radiation from ultrasonic transducer  22 . Ultrasonic transducer  22  interrogates part  40  as part  40  rotates in output tank  16 . Part  40  may be tangential to ultrasonic transducer  22 , and rotation of part  40  allows all aspects of the part  40  to be exposed to ultrasound. Part  40  generally circulates around a central point in output tank  16 , and part  40  rotates. The motion of part  40  in output tank  16  creates a controlled agitation. The action of part  40  during this process therefore creates support removal through friction by continuous rotational motion of 3D printed part  40  within the detergent, along with a uniform interrogation from ultrasonic transducer  22 , thereby generating synergy in support removal between the action of the pump, the heater, the chemistry and the ultrasonic transducer. 
         [0048]    The ultrasonic interrogation of part  40  creates heat and cavitation in a generally uniform manner across the part as it rotates and circulates through output tank  16 , exposing each surface of part  40  to the ultrasound. Additionally, a heating unit may also be used to generate heat for enhancing support removal. The heating unit and the ultrasonic generator  70  may operate in harmony, such that when the ultrasonic generator  70  needs to be dialed down, the heating unit can compensate by maintaining the heat of the mass at an optimal level. A heating unit may be positioned wherein said heating means comprises a heating element having an internal end positioned internally in the output chamber  16  to engage the liquid mass and an external end communicatively coupled to said microprocessor for controlling heat input to the liquid mass contained within the output chamber  16 . An advantage provided by the use of ultrasound is the creation of cavitation of liquid mass  28 , which a heater and pump  30  may not do. Overuse of the ultrasonic transducer  22  may degrade the liquid mass  28  such that liquid mass  28  becomes exhausted. The part  40  material may be energy sensitive to deforming or delaminating such that constant optimization of energy within the system is important. 
         [0049]    The use of an ultrasonic transducer  22  has dual effects, such that the ultrasonic transducer  22  may be considered a mixing component for liquid mass  28  rather than an just a heater. While heating with an ultrasonic transducer  22  may require more energy than the use of a standard heating unit, the ultrasonic transducer  22  has multiple effects. Ultrasound affects the surface of part  40  microscopically by causing vibration, thus, the work being done by ultrasonic transducer  22  extends beyond heating alone, thus creating a synergistic effect for support removal, and increasing efficiency of the process. 
         [0050]    It is obvious that the components comprising the support removal apparatus may be fabricated from a variety of materials, providing such selection or use of materials possess the capacity to withstand premature corrosion given the presence and use of an alkaline aqueous cleaning solution, notably falling within a variety of pH ranges. The tank can be made of 304 and/or 316 SS or any steel alloy with better corrosion resistance than 316 SS. Accordingly, it is most desirable, and therefore preferred, to construct the output tank and input tank work surface, top and nozzle heads from stainless steel; pipe and fittings from a polymeric material such as polyamide (PA) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS); and cabinet and storage cabinet from a lower grade stainless steel. It is noted herein that the retention tank, nozzle head, work surface, and integral work platform may be alternatively fabricated from materials to lessen the overall weight of the support removal apparatus yet maintaining sufficient resistance to corrosion, such as polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyphenylene, ABS, or PA. Similarly, the pump, thermocouple, heating element  38 , and level indicator, particularly exposed operable components of each, are fabricated from a high grade stainless steel or coated with an impervious, corrosive-resistant material such as epoxy. 
         [0051]    Although the disclosure has been described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications and variations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It should be understood that applicant does not intend to be limited to the particular details described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.