Support cleaning system

An automated support cleaning system comprising a tank disposed within a housing and configured to circulate an aqueous cleaning solution to remove a support structure from a three-dimensional model.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUE FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS WITH PRINTED RECEIVING SURFACES

A method for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system, comprising printing successive layers having increasing cross-sectional areas, and printing layers of a three-dimensional part onto the previously printed layers, where a last layer of the previously printed successive layers has a cross-sectional area that is at least as large as a footprint area of the three-dimensional part. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for printing three-dimensional parts in a layer by layer manner with an additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:providing a starter piece having a receiving surface that is substantially parallel to a build plane and substantially normal to a print axis;printing a first layer of a three-dimensional part or a sacrificial layer onto the receiving surface;printing successive layers of the three-dimensional part or the sacrificial layers onto the previously printed layer; andprinting the three dimensional part to a dimension greater than a build environment of the additive manufacturing system by moving the three dimensional part along the print axis.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein printing the sacrificial layer comprises extruding a water soluble material.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein printing the sacrificial layer comprises extruding a part material.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein the print axis is substantially horizontal.25. The method of claim 21 , wherein the print axis is substantially vertical.26. The method of claim 21 , wherein the print axis is at an angle between substantially horizontal and substantially vertical.27. The method of claim 21 , wherein the build environment comprises a chamber with a port wherein as the three-dimensional part is printed to a dimension greater than the build chamber claim 21 , at least a portion of the part extends through the port.28. The method of claim 27 , and further comprising heating the chamber while the three-dimensional part is printed in a layer by ...

Liquefier assembly for use in extrusion-based additive manufacturing systems

A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, the liquefier assembly comprising a downstream portion having a first average inner cross-sectional area, and an upstream having a second average inner cross-sectional area that is less than the first inner cross-sectional area, the upstream portion defining a shoulder configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of a consumable material.

Ribbon liquefier for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems

A ribbon liquefier (38) comprising an outer liquefier portion (66) configured to receive thermal energy from a heat transfer component (40), and a channel (72) at least partially defined by the outer liquefier portion (66), where the channel (72) has dimensions that are configured to receive a ribbon filament (44), and where the ribbon liquefier (38) is configured to melt the ribbon filament (44) received in the channel (72) to at least an extrudable state with the received thermal energy to provide a melt flow. The dimensions of the channel (72) are further configured to conform the melt flow from an axially- asymmetric flow to a substantially axially-symmetric flow in an extrusion tip (52) connected to the ribbon liquefier (38).

Additive manufacturing with soluble build sheet and part marking

A method for producing three-dimensional parts, which includes printing the three-dimensional parts and associated support structures onto soluble build sheets, marking each three-dimensional part with information relating to the three-dimensional part, and removing the associated support structures and the soluble build sheets from the printed three-dimensional parts with an aqueous solution using a support removal process. The markings remain applied to the three-dimensional parts after the support removal process, and preferably do not detract from aesthetic qualities of the three-dimensional parts.

RIBBON LIQUEFIER AND METHOD OF USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A ribbon liquefier comprising an outer liquefier portion configured to receive thermal energy from a heat transfer component, and a channel at least partially defined by the outer liquefier portion, where the channel has dimensions that are configured to receive the ribbon filament, and where the ribbon liquefier is configured to melt the ribbon filament received in the channel to at least an extrudable state with the received thermal energy to provide a melt flow. The dimensions of the channel are further configured to conform the melt flow from an axially-asymmetric flow to a substantially axially-symmetric flow in an extrusion tip connected to the ribbon liquefier. 1. A method for building a three-dimensional model in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system , the method comprising:heating a ribbon liquefier retained by the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the ribbon liquefier having a static channel with an inlet end and an outlet end;feeding a ribbon filament into the inlet end of the static channel of the heated ribbon liquefier;melting the ribbon filament in the static channel to at least an extrudable state with the heat to provide a molten material, wherein the molten material conforms to an axially-asymmetric flow in the channel;moving the molten material having the axially-asymmetric flow from the static channel to an extrusion tip disposed at the outlet end of the channel with a viscosity-pump action of the fed ribbon filament;conforming the molten material to a substantially axially-symmetric flow;extruding the molten material having the substantially axially-symmetric flow from the extrusion tip; anddepositing the extruded material as a road to form at least a portion of a layer of the three-dimensional model.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the static channel extends along a longitudinal axis and has a substantially-rectangular cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis claim 1 , wherein the substantially-rectangular ...

MAGNETICALLY COUPLED PRINT HEAD FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

An additive manufacturing system includes a gantry configured to move in a build plane. A platen is configured to support a part being built in a layer by layer process and wherein the platen is configured to move in a direction substantially normal to the build plane. A head carriage is carried by the gantry wherein the head carriage includes ferromagnetic material. The system includes at least one print head where the print head includes a housing and one or more magnets attached to the housing wherein the at least one print head is configured to be coupled to the head carriage through a magnetic coupling between the one or more magnets and the ferromagnetic material such that the print head is configured to move rotationally relative to the head carriage. 1. An additive manufacturing system comprising:a gantry configured to move in a build plane;a platen configured to support a part being built in a layer by layer process, wherein the platen is configured to move in a direction substantially normal to the build plane;a head carriage carried by the gantry wherein the head carriage comprises ferromagnetic material; and a housing; and', 'one or more magnets attached to the housing wherein the at least one print head is configured to be coupled to the head carriage through a magnetic coupling between the one or more magnets and the ferromagnetic material such that the print head is configured to move rotationally relative to the head carriage., 'at least one print head comprising2. The additive manufacturing system of and wherein the head carriage comprises:a wall having an opening having a length and a width, the opening sized to receive at least one print head;a first shaft compositionally comprising at least partially ferromagnetic material, located below the wall; anda second shaft spaced from the first shaft, the second shaft located below the bottom wall.3. The additive manufacturing system of and wherein the first shaft comprises:a main body having a ...

Additive manufacturing system with extended printing volume, and methods of use thereof

An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts, the system comprising a heatable region, a receiving surface, a print head configured to print a three-dimensional part onto the receiving surface in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis, and a drive mechanism configured to index the receiving surface along the printing axis such that the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part out of the heated region.

Consumable assembly with payout tube for additive manufacturing system

A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system, the payout tube comprising a tip end having an inlet opening, a base end having an outlet opening, and a tube body having an average effective outer diameter that is substantially greater than an effective inner diameter of the inlet opening.

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLIES FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts. In one aspect, the liquefier assembly includes a liquefier that is transversely compressible, and having an inlet end configured to receive a consumable material in a solid or molten state and an outlet end, a nozzle at the outlet end, and an actuator mechanism configured to transversely compress and expand the liquefier in a controlled manner In another aspect, the liquefier assembly is self heating. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts , the liquefier assembly comprising:a liquefier having an inlet end and an outlet end offset along the longitudinal axis, wherein the liquefier is transversely compressible;a nozzle at the outlet end of the liquefier; andan actuator mechanism operably positioned proximate the liquefier and configured to controllably apply pressure to transversely compress the liquefier.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier comprises a ribbon liquefier.3. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising one or more electrical lines configured to operably connect the actuator mechanism to a controller assembly of the additive manufacturing system.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism comprises one or more piezoelectric actuators.5. The liquefier assembly of claim 4 , and further comprising a frame wherein the frame comprises space apart flanges positioned on opposing sides of the liquefier tube wherein the actuator assembly further comprises one or more mechanisms configured to bias the flanges together.6. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising one or more heater assemblies configured to heat the liquefier.7. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising one or more sensors configured to measure compressions and expansions of the liquefier.8. The liquefier assembly of and further comprising at ...

Platen planarizing process for additive manufacturing system

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method comprising generating and printing a planarizing part having a substantially-planar top surface relative to a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors a topography of a platen surface, and printing the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part.

Surface Angle Model Evaluation Process for Additive Manufacturing

A method for printing a three-dimensional part in an additive manufacturing process, which includes calculating surface plane angles relative to one or more of the coordinate axes as a function of surface area of the surface geometry, calculating a build score for each coordinate axis as a function of the calculated surface plane angles, and selecting an orientation for the digital model in the coordinate system based at least in part on the calculated build scores. The build scores preferably predict which part orientations are likely to provide good surface quality for the printed three-dimensional part. 1. A method for printing a three-dimensional part in an additive manufacturing process , the method comprising:receiving a digital model of the three-dimensional part to a computer, wherein the digital model is provided in a coordinate system having a plurality of coordinate axes, and has a surface geometry;calculating surface plane angles relative to one or more of the coordinate axes with the computer as a function of surface area of the surface geometry;calculating a build score for each of the one or more coordinate axes with the computer, wherein the build score is calculated as a function of the calculated surface plane angles; andselecting an orientation for the digital model in the coordinate system based at least in part on the calculated build scores.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein selecting the orientation for the digital model in the coordinate system based at least in part on the calculated build scores comprises orienting the digital model such that a coordinate axis corresponding to a highest build score is aligned with a printing axis for the additive manufacturing process.3. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising determining one or more additional criteria results for each of the one or more coordinate axes with the computer.4. The method of claim 3 , and further comprising:comparing the calculated build scores to a threshold value, ...

Support cleaning system

An automated support cleaning system comprising a tank disposed within a housing and configured to circulate an aqueous cleaning solution to remove a support structure from a three-dimensional model.

Ribbon filament and assembly for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate.

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, which includes a rigid member having a gap, a liquefier tube operably disposed in the gap, one or more heater assemblies disposed in the gap in contact with the liquefier tube, and configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner, preferably one or more thermal resistors disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assemblies, and preferably one or more sensors configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube. The one or more heater assemblies may be operated to provide dynamic heat flow control. 120-. (canceled)21. A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a thermally-conductive main body having a first end and a second end and a channel extending from the first end to the second end;a liquefier tube disposed within the channel, and having an inlet end and an outlet end;a heater assembly disposed in the gap and in contact with the liquefier tube, the heater assembly comprising a plurality of independently controllable heating zones wherein the heater assembly and configured to impart heat into the liquefier tube and the main body; anda heat sink unit coupled to the main body and configured to draw heat away from the main member.22. The liquefier assembly of and further comprising a thermal resistor disposed in the channel between the liquefier tube and the main body.23. The liquefier assembly of claim 22 , wherein the thermal resistor comprises a plurality of segments configured to reduce thermal spreading along the resistor block in directions along the longitudinal axis.24. The liquefier assembly of claim 21 , wherein the main body comprises a base portion and a pair of spaced apart arm that define the channel.25. The liquefier assembly of claim 24 , wherein the liquefier tube is removably retained within the main body with a compressive force caused by flexing of the spaced apart arms.26. The ...

Three-dimensional parts having interconnected hollow patterns, and method for generating and printing thereof

A three-dimensional part printed using an additive manufacturing technique, which includes sets of printed cell layers, each defining an array of hollow cells with wall segments, and sets of printed transition layers, each being disposed between adjacent printed cell layers, where the sets of printed transition layers each comprise sloped walls that diverge from a first portion of the wall segments and that converge towards a second portion of the wall segments to interconnect the hollow cells of adjacent printed cell layers, and where the sloped walls of adjacent printed transition layers have printing orientations that are rotated from each other in a build plane.

Method for printing three-dimensional parts with additive manufacturing systems using scaffolds

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, comprising printing the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis in the additive manufacturing system, printing a scaffold in a layer by layer manner along the printing axis along with the printing of the three-dimensional part, and bracing the three-dimensional part laterally relative to the printing axis with the scaffold while printing the three-dimensional part.

SHEET SUBSTRATE RETENTION DEVICE FOR SECURING A SHEET SUBSTRATE TO A VACUUM PLATEN IN AN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

An additive manufacturing system for forming 3D parts includes a platen, a gantry, at least one print head, and a retention device. The gantry is configured to move the platen along a vertical axis. The at least one print head is configured to extrude part and/or support material onto a sheet substrate that is positioned on a support surface of the platen. The retention device includes a frame that is configured to press two or more edge portions of the sheet substrate against the support surface of the platen when the retention device is in a lowered position relative to the platen or support surface. 1. An extrusion-based additive manufacturing system for forming 3D parts comprising:a vacuum platen;a gantry configured to move the platen along a vertical axis;at least one print head configured to extrude part and/or support material onto a support surface of the platen; anda retention device including a frame configured to press two or more edge portions of a disposable sheet substrate against the support surface of the platen when the retention device is in a lowered position relative to the platen.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the frame comprises a first frame portion having first and second opposing ends claim 1 , a second frame portion extending orthogonally from the first end claim 1 , and a third frame portion extending orthogonally from the second end.3. The system according to claim 2 , wherein the retention device comprises a front wall extending between the second and third frame portions.4. The system according to claim 3 , wherein the front wall extends along a front side of the platen and below the support surface when the retention device is in the lowered position.5. The system according to claim 4 , wherein the retention device includes spaced apart slots extending between a top surface of the front wall and the second and third frame portions claim 4 , the slot configured to receive the sheet substrate claim 4 , when the retention ...

Additive manufacturing method for printing three-dimensional parts with purge towers

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method including printing layers of the three-dimensional part and of a support structure for the three-dimensional part from multiple print heads or deposition lines, and switching the print heads or deposition line between stand-by modes and operating modes in-between the printing of the layers of the three-dimensional part and the support structure. The method also includes performing a purge operation for each print head or deposition line switched to the operating mode, where the purge operation includes printing a layer of at least one purge tower from the print head or deposition line switched to the operating mode.

Consumable assembly for use in extrusion-based layered deposition systems

A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube.

RIBBON FILAMENT AND ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate. 120-. (canceled)21. A non-cylindrical ribbon filament for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system with a ribbon liquefier to build a three-dimensional model in a layer-by-layer manner , the ribbon filament comprising:a composition comprising at least one extrudable material;a length that is continuous for at least a distance such that the non-cylindrical ribbon filament is feedable from a supply source to the ribbon liquefier configured to melt and extrude the filament, the ribbon liquefier retained by a moveable head of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system;a cross-sectional profile of the length having a cross-sectional aspect ratio of 2:1 or greater; andwherein the non-cylindrical ribbon filament exhibits a flexibility such that the ribbon filament does not plastically deform or fracture while retained by the supply source or when fed from the supply source to the ribbon liquefier.22. The non-cylindrical ribbon filament of claim 21 , wherein the at least one extrudable material comprises a thermoplastic polymeric material.23. The non-cylindrical ribbon filament of claim 21 , wherein the cross-sectional profile is configured to mate with the non-cylindrical ribbon liquefier having an entrance cross-sectional area Aand a hydraulic diameter Dwith the ribbon filament claim 21 , wherein D<0.95√{square root over (A)}.24. The non-cylindrical ribbon filament of claim 23 , wherein D<0.90 √{square root over (A)} and D>0. ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH EXTENDED PRINTING VOLUME, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts, the system comprising a heatable region, a receiving surface, a print head configured to print a three-dimensional part onto the receiving surface in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis, and a drive mechanism configured to index the receiving surface along the printing axis such that the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part out of the heated region. 120-. (canceled)21. An additive manufacturing system for printing a three-dimensional part , the system comprising:a build environment having a first length;a gantry located within the build environment;a print head attached to the gantry, wherein the gantry is configured to move the print head in a plane substantially parallel to a print plane, wherein a part material is extruded in the print plane to print the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner, wherein the print plane is non-horizontal;a receiving surface configured to receive the printed part material from the print head to build the three-dimensional part in the layer-by-layer manner to a selected part length where the part length is greater than the first length of the build environment; anda drive mechanism configured to index at least a portion of the receiving surface substantially parallel to a printing axis such that the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part move out of the build environment as the three-dimensional part is being built in the layer-by layer manner.22. The system of claim 21 , wherein the build environment is unheated.23. The system of claim 21 , wherein the build environment comprises one or more heaters configured to heat the build environment proximate the build plane.24. The system of claim 21 , wherein the build environment comprises a chamber having chamber walls and a port claim 21 , and wherein the indexing moves the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three- ...

Non-cylindrical filaments for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems

A consumable material (34) for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system (10), the consumable material (34) comprising a length (36) and a cross-sectional profile (38) of at least a portion of the length (36) that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile (38) is configured to provide a response time with a non- cylindrical liquefier (48) of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system (10) that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate.

Method for building three-dimensional models with extrusion-based additive manufacturing systems

A method for building a three-dimensional model with an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system having an extrusion head, the method comprising depositing a consumable material from a liquefier assembly at an extrusion rate to substantially normalize a meniscus height within the liquefier assembly.

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, the liquefier assembly comprising a downstream portion having a first average inner cross-sectional area, and an upstream having a second average inner cross-sectional area that is less than the first inner cross-sectional area, the upstream portion defining a shoulder configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of a consumable material. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a downstream portion comprising a first end and a second end opposite of the first end along a longitudinal length of the liquefier assembly, wherein the downstream portion has a first average inner cross-sectional area;an upstream portion disposed adjacent to the first end of the downstream portion, the upstream portion being configured to receive a consumable material,wherein the upstream portion has a second average inner cross-sectional area that is less than the first inner cross-sectional area, and wherein the upstream portion defines a shoulder between the first inner cross-sectional area and the second inner cross-sectional area, the shoulder being configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of the consumable material; andan extrusion tip disposed at the second end of the downstream portion.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the upstream portion comprises an inner surface having a surface energy less than about 75 millinewtons/meter.3. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first average inner cross-sectional area is at least 105% of the second average inner cross-sectional area.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 3 , wherein the first average inner cross-sectional area ranges from about 110% of the second average inner cross-sectional area to about 150% of the second average inner cross-sectional area.5. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the upstream portion comprises:a liquefier ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING BODY TISSUE SPHINCTERS AND THE LIKE

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area. 110-. (canceled)11. Apparatus for encompassing a patient's body tissue structure and for resiliently applying pressure to the encompassed tissue comprising:a band that can be disposed around the tissue structure; andmeans for resiliently producing a pleat in the band to reduce but not eliminate an area encompassed by the band.12. The apparatus defined in wherein the means for resiliently producing comprises:a pair of bodies adjacent to one another along the band that are magnetically attracted to one another.13. A method of treating a patient's body tissue structure comprising:surrounding the tissue structure with apparatus for applying resilient pressure to the tissue structure, the apparatus being self-limiting with respect to a smallest area that the apparatus encompasses, the smallest area being a non-zero area, the apparatus including a plurality of bodies in an array that can annularly surround the tissue structure so that each of the bodies contacts the tissue structure, each body in the array having a structural link connecting it to a next adjacent body in the array, each of the links allowing the bodies it connects to move apart from one another in a direction that is annular of the array, and ...

Voice coil mechanism for use in additive manufacturing system

A print head assembly that includes a receptacle supported from a carriage frame and configured to receive a print head, and a toggle mechanism configured to move the receptacle relative to the carriage frame.

PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN FUSED DEPOSITION MODELING SYSTEM

A print head assembly that includes a print head carriage and multiple, replaceable print heads that are configured to be removably retained in receptacles of the print head carriage. 1. A print head assembly for use in a fused deposition modeling system , the print head assembly comprising:a carriage frame configured to be retained by a gantry mechanism of the fused deposition modeling system; anda receptacle supported from the carriage frame such that the receptacle is moveable relative to the carriage frame along at least one axis, wherein the receptacle is configured to securely retain a removable print head in a manner that prevents the retained print head from moving relative to the receptacle during operation of the fused deposition modeling system.2. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle is supported from the carriage frame with at least one suspension mechanism that is configured to restrict movement of the receptacle relative to the carriage frame to directions substantially along a single axis of the at least one axis.3. The print head assembly of claim 2 , wherein the at least one suspension mechanism comprises at least one flexure member.4. The print head assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising a toggle mechanism configured to move the receptacle relative to the carriage frame along the at least one axis.5. The print head assembly of claim 4 , wherein the toggle mechanism comprises a voice coil.6. The print head assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising an encoder assembly configured to measure the position of the receptacle relative to the carriage frame along the at least one axis.7. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle comprises a vent opening claim 1 , and wherein the print head assembly further comprises a cooling unit configured to direct air through the vent opening to the print head when the print head is received in the base portion.8. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the ...

RIBBON FILAMENT AND ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate.

Support Structure Removal System

A support structure removal system comprising a vessel and a second component. The vessel comprises a vessel body, a porous floor configured to retain a three-dimensional part, and an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor. The second component comprises a surface configured to operably receive the vessel, and a rotation-inducing assembly located below the surface, where the rotation-inducing assembly is configured to rotate the impeller with magnetic fields when the vessel is received on the surface of the second component to agitate and direct flows of an aqueous fluid through the porous floor. 1. A support structure removal system comprising: a vessel body having a top opening, the vessel body being configured to retain an aqueous fluid;', 'a porous floor supported by the vessel body, wherein the porous floor is configured to retain a three-dimensional part inserted through the top opening; and', 'an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor; and, 'a vessel comprising a surface configured to operably receive the vessel; and', 'a rotation-inducing assembly located below the surface, the rotation-inducing assembly being configured to rotate the impeller with magnetic fields when the vessel is received on the surface of the second component to agitate and direct flows of the aqueous fluid through the porous floor., 'a second component comprising2. The support structure removal system of claim 1 , and further comprising at least one heating element configured to heat the aqueous fluid.3. The support structure removal system of claim 1 , wherein the rotation-inducing assembly is configured to rotate the impeller with the magnetic fields in a first rotation direction and a second rotational direction that is counter to the first rotational direction.4. The support structure removal system of claim 1 , wherein the rotation-inducing assembly comprises a magnet assembly claim 1 , and wherein the support structure removal system further comprises a ...

GANTRY ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A gantry assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, the gantry assembly comprising a first bearing shaft, a carriage slidably engaged with the first bearing shaft, and a second bearing shaft operably supported by the carriage, the second linear bearing extending along a second axis. The gantry assembly also comprises a tool-head mount slidably engaged with the second linear bearing, a drive belt secured to the tool-head mount, a first motor having a first drive shaft engaged with the drive belt, and a second motor having a second drive shaft engaged with the drive belt. 1. A gantry assembly comprising:a first bearing shaft extending along a first axis;a carriage slidably engaged with the first bearing shaft;a second bearing shaft operably supported by the carriage, the second bearing shaft extending along a second axis that defines a plane with the first axis;a tool-head mount slidably engaged with the second bearing shaft;a drive belt secured to the tool-head mount;a first motor having a first drive shaft engaged with the drive belt; anda second motor having a second drive shaft engaged with the drive belt, wherein the first motor and the second motor are configured to operate independently to rotate the drive belt in manners that move the carriage along the first bearing shaft and that move the head-tool mount along the second bearing shaft based on relative rotational directions and rotational rates between the first drive shaft and the second drive shaft, so as to allow movement of the tool-head mount to any coordinate location within the plane, wherein the gantry assembly is configured to reduce pivoting of the carriage in the plane.2. The gantry assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising:a first pulley engaged with the drive belt, the first pulley being offset along the first axis from the first motor; anda second pulley engaged with the drive belt, the second pulley being offset along the first axis from the second motor, and offset along the ...

CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY WITH PAYOUT TUBE FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system, the payout tube comprising a tip end having an inlet opening, a base end having an outlet opening, and a tube body having an average effective outer diameter that is substantially greater than an effective inner diameter of the inlet opening. 1. A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system , the payout tube comprising:a tip end having an inlet opening with an effective inner diameter less than about 7.6 millimeters, wherein the inlet opening also has a cross-sectional area ranging from about 110% to about 300% of an average cross-sectional area of the consumable filament;a base end having an outlet opening; anda tube body extending along a longitudinal length between the tip end and the base end, the tube body having an average effective outer diameter along the longitudinal length that is at least about three times greater than the effective inner diameter of the inlet opening.2. The payout tube of claim 1 , wherein longitudinal length of the tube body ranges from about 130 millimeters to about 250 millimeters claim 1 , and wherein the average effective outer diameter ranges from about 38 millimeters to about 130 millimeters.3. The payout tube of claim 1 , wherein the tube body has an outer geometry that is cylindrical or conical between the tip end and the base end.4. The payout tube of claim 1 , wherein the tube body has an outer geometry that comprises a plurality of ribs that extend along the longitudinal length between the tip end and the base end.5. The payout tube of claim 1 , and further comprising a capture tip secured to the tip end of the tube body at least partially within the inlet opening claim 1 , wherein the effective inner diameter of the inlet opening is an inner diameter of the capture tip ...

SPOOL ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM, AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE THEREOF

A spool assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, comprising a spool rotatably retained in a sealed sheath in a hub-less manner, and a locking mechanism configured to operably engage with the spool to prevent the spool from rotating. 1. A spool assembly comprising:a housing structure having an interior region; a filament-receiving shaft having a first end and a second end offset along the first axis of rotation;', 'a first flange extending from the first end of the filament-receiving shaft, wherein the first flange comprises a first perimeter edge; and', 'a second flange extending from the second end of the filament-receiving shaft, wherein the second flange comprises a second perimeter edge;, 'a spool having a first axis of rotation, and being configured to reside in the interior region of the housing structure in a manner that is free or substantially free of any hub engagement, wherein the spool comprisesa first bearing support mounted to the housing structure within the interior region; anda second bearing support mounted to the housing structure within the interior region at an offset location from the first bearing support, wherein the first bearing support and the second bearing support are configured to support the first perimeter edge of the first flange and the second perimeter edge of the second flange while the spool is rotated around the first axis of rotation.2. The spool assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first bearing support comprises first bearing roller rotatably mounted to the housing structure and having a second axis of rotation that is substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation of the spool.3. The spool assembly of claim 2 , wherein the second bearing support comprises second bearing roller rotatably mounted to the housing structure and having a third axis of rotation that is substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation of the spool.4. The spool assembly of claim 1 , and further comprising a consumable filament ...

UNIVERSAL ADAPTER FOR CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY USED WITH ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A universal adapter for use with a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system, the universal adapter comprising an inlet opening configured to receive a guide tube of the consumable assembly, and a connection member at the outlet end, which is configured interface with a mating panel of the additive manufacturing system. 1. A universal adapter for use with a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system having a print head and a mating panel that is disposed at remote location from a print head , the universal adapter comprising:an adapter housing having an inlet end and an outlet end;an inlet opening at the inlet end configured to receive a guide tube of the consumable assembly; and a coupling mechanism configured to secure the connection member to the mating panel; and', 'an outlet orifice configured to engage a reciprocating opening of the mating panel., 'a connection member at the outlet end, which is configured interface with the mating panel, the connection member comprising2. The universal adapter of claim 1 , wherein the connection member further comprises a first electrical contact configured to engage a second electrical contact of the mating panel.3. The universal adapter of claim 1 , wherein the electrical contact of the adapter interface is configured to relay electrical power from the additive manufacturing system to the universal adapter.4. The universal adapter of claim 1 , and further comprising a filament drive mechanism retained within the adapter housing.5. The universal adapter of claim 1 , wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a plurality of magnets.6. The universal adapter of claim 1 , and further comprising a filament detection switch retained in the adapter housing.7. The universal adapter of claim 1 , wherein the adapter housing comprises a user grip portion.8. A consumable assembly for use with an additive manufacturing system having a print head and a ...

CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED LAYERED DEPOSITION SYSTEMS

A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube. 1. A method for building a three-dimensional object with an extrusion-based layered deposition system having a mount , the method comprising:providing a first consumable assembly to the extrusion-based layered deposition system, wherein the first consumable assembly comprises a container portion retaining a supply of a filament, an extruder portion, and a guide tube configured to guide the filament from the container portion to the extruder portion;placing the container portion at a location that is offset from the mount;inserting the extruder portion in the mount such that the guide tube extends between the location of the placed container portion and the inserted extruder portion;building at least a portion of the three-dimensional object from the filament retained in the container portion; andinterchanging the first consumable assembly with a second consumable assembly.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the building step comprises:feeding successive portions of the filament from the container portion, through the guide tube, and to the extruder portion;melting the successively fed portions of the filament in the extruder portion to form an extrudable material; andextruding the extrudable material from the extruder portion.3. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising creating an electrical connection between the inserted extruder portion and the extrusion-based layered deposition system.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second consumable assembly comprises a second container portion claim 1 , a second guide tube claim 1 , and a second extruder portion claim 1 , and wherein interchanging the first consumable assembly with the second consumable assembly comprises:removing the extruder portion and the guide tube of the first consumable assembly from the extrusion- ...

RIBBON LIQUEFIER AND METHOD OF USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A ribbon liquefier comprising an outer liquefier portion configured to receive thermal energy from a heat transfer component, and a channel at least partially defined by the outer liquefier portion, where the channel has dimensions that are configured to receive the ribbon filament, and where the ribbon liquefier is configured to melt the ribbon filament received in the channel to at least an extrudable state with the received thermal energy to provide a melt flow. The dimensions of the channel are further configured to conform the melt flow from an axially-asymmetric flow to a substantially axially-symmetric flow in an extrusion tip connected to the ribbon liquefier. 1. A method for building a three-dimensional model in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system , the method comprising:heating a ribbon liquefier retained by the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the ribbon liquefier having a static channel with an inlet end and an outlet end;feeding a ribbon filament into the inlet end of the static channel of the heated ribbon liquefier;melting the ribbon filament in the static channel to at least an extrudable state with the heat to provide a molten material, wherein the molten material conforms to an axially-asymmetric flow in the channel;moving the molten material having the axially-asymmetric flow from the static channel to an extrusion tip disposed at the outlet end of the channel with a viscosity-pump action of the fed ribbon filament;conforming the molten material to a substantially axially-symmetric flow;extruding the molten material having the substantially axially-symmetric flow from the extrusion tip; anddepositing the extruded material as a road to form at least a portion of a layer of the three-dimensional model.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the static channel extends along a longitudinal axis and has a substantially-rectangular cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis claim 1 , wherein the substantially-rectangular ...

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY HAVING INLET LINER FOR USE IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, the liquefier assembly comprising a liquefier tube, a rigid sleeve secured to an inlet end of the liquefier tube, an extrusion tip secured to an outlet end of the liquefier tube, and a hollow liner disposed at least partially within the rigid sleeve such that inner surfaces of the liquefier tube and the hollow liner are substantially flush, and where the inner surface of the hollow liner has a low surface energy. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a liquefier tube compositionally comprising a metallic material, and having an inlet end and an outlet end offset along a longitudinal axis, wherein the liquefier tube further includes a liquefier inner surface having a first average inner cross-sectional area;a rigid sleeve having a first end and a second end offset along the longitudinal axis, wherein the second end of the rigid sleeve is secured to the inlet end of the liquefier tube, and wherein the rigid sleeve further includes a sleeve inner surface having a second average inner cross-sectional area that is greater than the first average inner cross-sectional area of the liquefier inner surface;a hollow liner disposed at least partially within the rigid sleeve against the sleeve inner surface, wherein the hollow liner has a liner inner surface and an average wall thickness, the average wall thickness being substantially the same as a difference between the second average inner cross-sectional area of the rigid sleeve inner surface and the first average inner cross-sectional area of the liquefier inner surface such that the liner inner surface is substantially flush with the liquefier inner surface, and wherein the liner inner surface has a coefficient of friction of less than about 0.3; andan extrusion tip secured to the outlet end of the liquefier tube.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the hollow liner compositionally ...

Support Structure Removal System

A support structure removal system comprising a vessel and a second component. The vessel comprises a vessel body, a porous floor configured to retain a three-dimensional part, and an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor. The second component comprises a surface configured to operably receive the vessel, and a rotation-inducing assembly located below the surface, where the rotation-inducing assembly is configured to rotate the impeller with magnetic fields when the vessel is received on the surface of the second component to agitate and direct flows of an aqueous fluid through the porous floor.

PRINT HEAD NOZZLE FOR USE WITH ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A nozzle for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system, the nozzle comprising a nozzle body having an inlet end and a tip end offset longitudinally from the inlet end, a tip pipe for extruding a flowable material, an inner ring extending circumferentially around the tip pipe at the outlet end, an outer ring extending circumferentially around the inner ring, at least one annular recessed groove located circumferentially between the inner ring and the outer ring. 1. A nozzle for use with a print head in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the nozzle comprising:an inlet end configured to be secured to a flow channel of the print head;a tip end offset longitudinally from the inlet end;a tip pipe extending longitudinally at least part way between the inlet end to the tip end; andan inner ring located at the tip end, the inner ring having an inner diameter at the tip pipe;an outer ring located at the tip end, and extending around the inner ring; andat least one annular recessed groove located at the tip end, and circumferentially between the inner ring and the outer ring.2. The nozzle of claim 1 , wherein the inner ring also has an outer diameter defining an inner diameter of the at least one recessed groove claim 1 , and a planar bottom surface extending between the inner diameter and the outer diameter.3. The nozzle of claim 1 , wherein the outer diameter of the inner ring ranges from about 500 micrometers to about 1 claim 1 ,300 micrometers.4. The nozzle of claim 1 , wherein the outer ring comprises a knife-edge face.5. The nozzle of claim 4 , wherein the outer ring has a knife-edge diameter ranging from about 1 claim 4 ,500 micrometers to about 2 claim 4 ,500 micrometers.6. The nozzle of claim 1 , wherein the at least one recessed groove comprises two recessed grooves claim 1 , and wherein the nozzle further comprises an intermediate ring located at the tip end between the two recessed grooves.7. The nozzle of claim 1 , ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUE FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS WITH PRINTED RECEIVING SURFACES

A method for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system, comprising printing successive layers having increasing cross-sectional areas, and printing layers of a three-dimensional part onto the previously printed layers, where a last layer of the previously printed successive layers has a cross-sectional area that is at least as large as a footprint area of the three-dimensional part. 1. A method for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:printing successive layers along a printing axis onto a first receiving surface of a print foundation, wherein the printed successive layers have increasing cross-sectional areas parallel to a build plane that is normal to the printing axis, wherein a last layer of the printed successive layers defines a second receiving surface; andprinting layers of a three-dimensional part onto the second receiving surface, wherein the last layer of the printed successive layers has a first cross-sectional area parallel to the build plane, wherein a first layer defines of the three-dimensional part has a second cross-sectional area parallel to the build plane, and wherein the first cross-sectional area is at least as large as the second cross-sectional area.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the printed successive layers define a soluble support structure.3. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising printing layers of a scaffold for the three-dimensional object onto the second receiving surface claim 1 , wherein a first layer of the scaffold has a third cross-sectional area parallel to the build plane claim 1 , and wherein the first cross-sectional area is at least as large as a combination of the second cross-sectional area and the third cross-sectional area.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein a last layer of the scaffold defines a third receiving surface claim 3 , and wherein the method further comprises printing successive layers along the printing axis ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH EXTENDED PRINTING VOLUME, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts, the system comprising a heatable region, a receiving surface, a print head configured to print a three-dimensional part onto the receiving surface in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis, and a drive mechanism configured to index the receiving surface along the printing axis such that the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part out of the heated region. 1. An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts , the system comprising:a heating mechanism configured to heat a region of the system to one or more temperatures;a print head configured to print a part material along a non-vertical printing axis;a non-horizontal receiving surface configured to receive the printed part material from the print head in the heated region to produce the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner; anda drive mechanism configured to index the receiving surface along the non-vertical printing axis such that the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part move out of the heated region.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the region of the system comprises a chamber of the system having chamber walls and a lateral port claim 1 , and wherein the indexing moves the receiving surface and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part through the lateral port.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the non-vertical printing axis comprises a substantially horizontal printing axis claim 1 , and wherein the non-horizontal receiving surface comprises a substantially vertical receiving surface.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiving surface is a surface of a platen of the system claim 1 , and wherein the drive mechanism comprises a platen gantry that having a first end disposed within the region that is heated and a second end disposed outside of the region that is heated.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the platen gantry ...

METHOD FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS WITH ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS USING SCAFFOLDS

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, comprising printing the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis in the additive manufacturing system, printing a scaffold in a layer by layer manner along the printing axis along with the printing of the three-dimensional part, and bracing the three-dimensional part laterally relative to the printing axis with the scaffold while printing the three-dimensional part. 1. A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:printing the three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis in the additive manufacturing system;printing a scaffold in a layer by layer manner along the printing axis along with the printing of the three-dimensional part; andbracing the three-dimensional part laterally relative to the printing axis with the scaffold while printing the three-dimensional part.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scaffold comprises a ribbon portion having a wave pattern that is connected to the three-dimensional part at one or more tangential locations of the ribbon portion.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the printed scaffold further comprises a substantially planar conveyor base connected to the ribbon portion opposite of the three-dimensional part.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scaffold has one or more walls that are each about one road-width thick.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the three-dimensional part and the scaffold are printed onto a print foundation retained by the additive manufacturing system claim 1 , and wherein the method further comprises indexing the print foundation along the printing axis.6. The method of claim 5 , and further comprising:engaging the print foundation with a drive mechanism of the additive manufacturing system, wherein indexing the print foundation is performed by the drive mechanism; andengaging the scaffold with the ...

CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED LAYERED DEPOSITION SYSTEMS

A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube. 1. A method for building a three-dimensional object with an extrusion-based layered deposition system having a mount , the method comprising:providing a first consumable assembly to the extrusion-based layered deposition system, wherein the first consumable assembly comprises a container portion retaining a supply of a filament, an extruder portion, and a guide tube configured to guide the filament from the container portion to the extruder portion;placing the container portion at a location that is offset from the mount;inserting the extruder portion in the mount such that the guide tube extends between the location of the placed container portion and the inserted extruder portion;building at least a portion of the three-dimensional object from the filament retained in the container portion; andinterchanging the first consumable assembly with a second consumable assembly.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the building step comprises:feeding successive portions of the filament from the container portion, through the guide tube, and to the extruder portion;melting the successively fed portions of the filament in the extruder portion to form an extrudable material; andextruding the extrudable material from the extruder portion.3. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising creating an electrical connection between the inserted extruder portion and the extrusion-based layered deposition system.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second consumable assembly comprises a second container portion claim 1 , a second guide tube claim 1 , and a second extruder portion claim 1 , and wherein interchanging the first consumable assembly with the second consumable assembly comprises:removing the extruder portion and the guide tube of the first consumable assembly from the extrusion- ...

PRINT ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts, which includes a coarse positioner, a fine positioner, and a liquefier assembly, where a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the fine positioner such that the fine positioner is configured to move the portion of the liquefier assembly relative to the coarse positioner. 132-. (canceled)33. A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts , the print assembly comprising:a coarse gantry;a gantry operably mounted to the coarse gantry such that the coarse gantry is configured to move the fine gantry, and wherein the fine gantry has a higher fundamental resonance frequency than the coarse gantry; anda liquefier assembly configured to heat an extrudable material to a molten state and extrude the molten consumable material, wherein at least a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the fine gantry;wherein the fine gantry executes toolpaths with the portion of the liquefier assembly at least at 30 gees without significant toolpath errors.34. The print assembly of claim 33 , wherein the fine gantry executes toolpaths with the portion of the liquefier assembly at least at 40 gees without significant toolpath errors.35. The print assembly of claim 33 , wherein the fine gantry executes toolpaths with the portion of the liquefier assembly at least at 50 gees without significant toolpath errors.36. The print assembly of claim 33 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the fine gantry has a mass of less than 50 grams.37. The print assembly of claim 33 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the fine gantry comprises:an accumulator;a nozzle at an outlet end of the accumulator; andan actuator mechanism configured to controllably apply pressure to transversely compress the accumulator.38. The print assembly of claim 37 , wherein the ...

PRINT HEAD NOZZLE FOR USE WITH ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A nozzle for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system, the nozzle comprising a nozzle body having an inlet end and a tip end offset longitudinally from the inlet end, a tip pipe for extruding a flowable material, an inner ring extending circumferentially around the tip pipe at the outlet end, an outer ring extending circumferentially around the inner ring, at least one annular recessed groove located circumferentially between the inner ring and the outer ring. 114-. (canceled)15. A method for printing a part with an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:feeding a consumable material to a print head retained by the extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, wherein the print head includes a flow channel and a nozzle, the nozzle comprising an outlet port, an inner ring, an outer ring extending circumferentially around the inner ring, and at least one annular recessed groove located circumferentially between the inner ring and the outer ring;melting the consumable material in the flow channel;extruding the molten material from the outlet port of the nozzle at a first flow rate to produce a first road of the extruded material having a first road width, wherein the extruded material for producing the first road draws down and does not contact the outer ring; andextruding the molten material from the outlet port of the nozzle at a second flow rate that is greater than the first flow rate to produce a second road of the extruded material, wherein the second road has a second road width that is greater than the first road width of the first road.16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the inner ring comprises a planar bottom face extending between the outlet port and an outer edge of the inner ring claim 15 , and wherein planar bottom face of the inner ring guides the extruded material to produce the first road.17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the inner ring comprises an outer diameter that ranges from about ...

PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY AND PRINT HEAD FOR USE IN FUSED DEPOSITION MODELING SYSTEM

A print head assembly that includes a print head carriage and multiple, replaceable print heads that are configured to be removably retained in receptacles of the print head carriage. The print heads each include a cartridge assembly and a liquefier pump assembly retained by the cartridge assembly. 1. A print head assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system , the print head assembly comprising:a carriage frame configured to be retained by a gantry mechanism of the additive manufacturing system to move the carriage frame substantially in a plane;a control board retained by the carriage frame;a voice coil mechanism configured to receive electrical power from the control board to controllably move a received replaceable print head relative to the carriage in directions outside of the plane; and restrict movement of the received print head relative to the carriage frame in directions parallel to the plane; and', 'permit the voice coil mechanism to controllably move the received print head relative to the carriage frame in the directions outside of the plane; and, 'at least one suspension mechanism that is secured to the carriage frame, and configured toa sensor assembly configured to operably measure positions of the received print head relative to the carriage frame in the directions outside of the plane, and to send information of the measured positions to the control board.2. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the sensor assembly comprises an optical encoder assembly.3. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the at least one suspension mechanism is further configured to prevent roll claim 1 , pitch claim 1 , and yaw movements of the received print head relative to the carriage frame in the plane.4. The print head assembly of claim 1 , wherein the carriage frame is further configured to operably receive a second print head claim 1 , and wherein the print head assembly further comprises:a second voice coil mechanism configured to receive ...

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, the liquefier assembly comprising a downstream portion having a first average inner cross-sectional area, and an upstream having a second average inner cross-sectional area that is less than the first inner cross-sectional area, the upstream portion defining a shoulder configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of a consumable material. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising: an upstream portion configured to receive a consumable material, wherein the upstream portion has an upstream inner surface compositionally comprising a fluorinated polymer, and wherein the upstream inner surface has an upstream average inner cross-sectional area; and', 'a downstream portion configured to receive the consumable material from the upstream portion, wherein the downstream portion has a downstream inner surface compositionally comprising a metallic material, and wherein the downstream inner surface has a downstream average inner cross-sectional area that is greater than the upstream average inner cross-sectional area; and', 'a shoulder located at an intersection of the upstream portion and the downstream portion that is configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of the consumable material;, 'a liquefier comprisingan external heater configured to conduct heat to the received consumable material in the downstream portion; andan extrusion tip coupled to the downstream portion.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the fluorinated polymer for the inner surface of the upstream portion comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.3. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the downstream average inner cross-sectional area is at least 105% of the upstream average inner cross-sectional area.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 3 , wherein the downstream average inner cross-sectional area ranges from about 110% of ...

PRINT HEAD ASSEMBLY AND PRINT HEAD FOR USE IN FUSED DEPOSITION MODELING SYSTEM

A print head assembly that includes a print head carriage and multiple, replaceable print heads that are configured to be removably retained in receptacles of the print head carriage. The print heads each include a cartridge assembly and a liquefier pump assembly retained by the cartridge assembly. 120-. (canceled)21. An additive manufacturing device comprising:a receptacle configured to receive a print head, the receptacle comprising a first sloped surface wherein the first sloped surface comprises a first longitudinal axis; anda print head configured to be positioned within the receptacle, the print head comprising a second sloped surface and comprising a second longitudinal axis wherein the second sloped surface is configured to engage the first sloped surface as the print head is positioned within the receptacle such that lateral movement of the print head relative to the receptacle is minimized.22. The additive manufacturing device of and further comprising:a securing mechanism in communication with the receptacle, the securing mechanism comprising spaced apart upper and lower surfaces configured to engage the print head to inhibit vertical movement of the print head relative to the receptacle.23. The additive manufacturing device of and wherein the print head further comprises:spaced apart first and second substantially horizontal surfaces wherein the upper surface on the securing mechanism is configured to engage first substantially horizontal surface on the print head and the lower surface of the securing mechanism is configured to engage the second substantially horizontal surface of the print head.24. The additive manufacturing device of and wherein a first cross section of the first sloped surface taken substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis comprises a circle.25. The additive manufacturing device of and wherein a second cross section of the second sloped surface taken substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH EXTENDED PRINTING VOLUME, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts, the system comprising a heatable chamber with a port, a print foundation, a print head configured to print a three-dimensional part onto the print foundation in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis, and a drive mechanism configured to index the print foundation along the printing axis such that, while the print head prints the three-dimensional part, the print foundation and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part pass through the port and out of the heated chamber. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for printing three-dimensional parts with an additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:providing a build environment of the additive manufacturing system, wherein the build environment has at a first length;printing a three-dimensional part in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis onto a movable print foundation of the additive manufacturing system; andindexing the print foundation along the printing axis allowing each subsequent layer of the three dimensional part to be printed and wherein successive indexing and printing results in at least a portion of the three-dimensional part having a second length greater than the first length of the build environment.22. The method of claim 21 , and further comprising heating the build environment to one or more temperatures.23. The method of claim 22 , and further comprising restricting air flow of the build environment to maintain a first temperature of the build environment.24. The method of claim 21 , where in the build environment is bounded by at least one wall claim 21 , the at least one wall having an opening that defines a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the printing axis of the additive manufacturing system and wherein successive indexing and printing results in at least a portion of the three-dimensional part passing through the opening.25. The method of claim 21 , wherein the printing axis is a ...

PLATEN PLANARIZING PROCESS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method comprising generating and printing a planarizing part having a substantially-planar top surface relative to a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors a topography of a platen surface, and printing the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system having a platen with a platen surface , the method comprising:mapping a topography of the platen surface, to locate a peak height of the platen surface;calculating a height of a sacrificial planarizing part as a function of the measured peak height of the platen surfaces;generating a digital model of the sacrificial planarizing part based on the calculated height and the high point of the platen surface;printing the sacrificial planarizing part with the additive manufacturing system based on the generated digital model of the planarizing part, wherein the printed planarizing part covers the peak height of the platen surface and has a substantially-planar top surface in a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors the mapped topography of the platen surface; andprinting the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the mapped topography of the platen surface is located within a bounding box of the three-dimensional part.23. The method of claim 21 , and further comprising heating at least the platen to one or more operating temperatures prior to measuring the heights.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein calculating the height of the planarizing part as a function of the measured heights comprises:calculating the height of the planarizing part as a function of the determined peak height deviation and at least one slice thickness for the planarizing ...

COIL ASSEMBLY HAVING PERMEABLE HUB

A coil assembly comprising a coil of a strand-based material retained in a figure-8 configuration, and having an inner layer and an outer layer, where the inner layer of the coil defines a core region of the coil, and where the coil is configured to unwind loop by loop beginning from the inner layer and moving towards the outer layer as the strand-based material is drawn through a payout hole. The coil assembly also comprises a permeable hub configured to reduce payout entanglement of the strand-based material. 1. A coil assembly comprising:a coil of a strand-based material retained in a figure-8 configuration, and having a payout hole for dispensing successive segments of the strand-based material, the payout hole extending from an inner layer of the coil to an outer layer of the coil, wherein the inner layer of the coil defines a core region of the coil, and wherein the coil is configured to unwind loop by loop beginning from the inner layer and moving towards the outer layer as the strand-based material is drawn through the payout hole; anda permeable hub retained in the core region of the coil, the permeable hub being displaceable by the unwinding of the strand-based material, and configured to prevent the strand-based material from forming more than one loop at a time in the core region as the strand-based material is pulled through the payout hole.2. The coil assembly of claim 1 , wherein the permeable hub comprises a plurality of displaceable bodies retained in the core region.3. The coil assembly of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of displaceable bodies comprise spheroids having a size distribution of at least two different average diameters.4. The coil assembly of claim 2 , wherein at least a portion of the plurality of displaceable bodies comprise are configured to retain desiccant.5. The coil assembly of claim 1 , wherein the permeable hub comprises at least two biasing bodies retained in the core region.6. The coil assembly of claim 1 , and further ...

RIBBON LIQUEFIER AND METHOD OF USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A ribbon liquefier comprising an outer liquefier portion configured to receive thermal energy from a heat transfer component, and a channel at least partially defined by the outer liquefier portion, where the channel has dimensions that are configured to receive the ribbon filament, and where the ribbon liquefier is configured to melt the ribbon filament received in the channel to at least an extrudable state with the received thermal energy to provide a melt flow. The dimensions of the channel are further configured to conform the melt flow from an axially-asymmetric flow to a substantially axially-symmetric flow in an extrusion tip connected to the ribbon liquefier. 1. A method for building a three-dimensional model in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system , the method comprising:heating a ribbon liquefier retained by the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the ribbon liquefier having a static channel with an inlet end and an outlet end;feeding a ribbon filament into the inlet end of the static channel of the heated ribbon liquefier;melting the ribbon filament in the static channel to at least an extrudable state with the heat to provide a molten material, wherein the molten material conforms to an axially-asymmetric flow in the channel;moving the molten material having the axially-asymmetric flow from the static channel to an extrusion tip disposed at the outlet end of the channel with a viscosity-pump action of the fed ribbon filament;conforming the molten material to a substantially axially-symmetric flow;extruding the molten material having the substantially axially-symmetric flow from the extrusion tip; anddepositing the extruded material as a road to form at least a portion of a layer of the three-dimensional model.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the static channel extends along a longitudinal axis and has a substantially-rectangular cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis claim 1 , wherein the substantially-rectangular ...

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, which includes a rigid member having a gap, a liquefier tube operably disposed in the gap, one or more heater assemblies disposed in the gap in contact with the liquefier tube, and configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner, preferably one or more thermal resistors disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assemblies, and preferably one or more sensors configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube. The one or more heater assemblies may be operated to provide dynamic heat flow control. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a rigid member comprising one or more thermally-conductive materials, and having a gap extending along a longitudinal axis;a liquefier tube disposed within the gap, and having an inlet end and an outlet end offset along the longitudinal axis;a heater assembly disposed in the gap and in contact with the liquefier tube, wherein the heater assembly is configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner along the longitudinal axis;a thermal resistor disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assembly, wherein the thermal resistor is configured to conduct a portion of the heat from the heater assembly to the rigid member; anda heat sink unit coupled to the rigid member to draw the conducted heat away from the rigid member.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the rigid member comprises a clam block having a base portion connected to a pair of arms claim 1 , which collectively define the gap.3. The liquefier assembly of claim 2 , wherein a portion of the heat sink unit extends through the base portion of the rigid member.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier tube comprises a ribbon liquefier tube.5. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier tube comprises a cylindrical liquefier tube.6. The ...

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY WITH MULTIPLE-ZONE PLATE HEATER ASSEMBLY

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, which includes a rigid member having a gap, a liquefier tube operably disposed in the gap, one or more heater assemblies disposed in the gap in contact with the liquefier tube, and configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner, preferably one or more thermal resistors disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assemblies, and preferably one or more sensors configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube. The one or more heater assemblies may be operated to provide dynamic heat flow control. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a liquefier tube having an inlet end and an outlet end offset along the longitudinal axis; a plate portion;', 'a plurality of conductor traces disposed on the plate portion, and configured to operably receive electrical power from the additive manufacturing system with independently controlled wattage levels; and', 'a plurality of heating elements disposed on the plate portion, and each in contact with one or more of the conductor traces to receive the electrical power from the one or more conductor traces, wherein the independently controlled wattage levels cause the heating elements to independently heat different zones of the liquefier tube along the longitudinal axis., 'a plate heater assembly comprising2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of conductor traces include three to eleven conductor traces.3. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier tube comprises a ribbon liquefier tube.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier tube comprises a cylindrical liquefier tube.5. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the heater assembly is configured to operably measure temperatures of the different zones based on electrical resistances of heating elements in each of the different zones.6. The liquefier ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PROCESS WITH DYNAMIC HEAT FLOW CONTROL

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, which includes a rigid member having a gap, a liquefier tube operably disposed in the gap, one or more heater assemblies disposed in the gap in contact with the liquefier tube, and configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner, preferably one or more thermal resistors disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assemblies, and preferably one or more sensors configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube. The one or more heater assemblies may be operated to provide dynamic heat flow control. 1. A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system , the method comprising:feeding a consumable material to a liquefier tube retained by the additive manufacturing system at multiple feed rates;heating the liquefier tube over multiple heating zones to melt the consumable material received in the liquefier tube;dynamically adjusting the heating of the liquefier tube over the multiple heating zones based at least in part of the feed rates of the consumable material to the liquefier tube; andextruding the molten consumable material from a nozzle retained by the liquefier tube.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein heating the liquefier tube over the multiple heating zones comprises relaying electrical power over conductor traces of a plate heater assembly to heating elements of the plate heater assembly.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein dynamically adjusting the heating of the liquefier tube comprises adjusting the amount of electrical power relayed over at least a portion of the conductor traces to the heating elements.4. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising:measuring temperatures in each of the multiple heating zones; andregulating the temperatures in each of the multiple heating zones in a closed-loop manner.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein dynamically adjusting the heating of the liquefier tube over the multiple ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM AND PROCESS WITH MATERIAL FLOW FEEDBACK CONTROL

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system, which includes a rigid member having a gap, a liquefier tube operably disposed in the gap, one or more heater assemblies disposed in the gap in contact with the liquefier tube, and configured to heat the liquefier tube in a zone-by-zone manner, preferably one or more thermal resistors disposed in the gap between the rigid member and the heater assemblies, and preferably one or more sensors configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube. The one or more heater assemblies may be operated to provide dynamic heat flow control. 1. An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts in a layer-by-layer manner , the system comprising:a drive mechanism retained by the system and configured to feed a consumable material;a liquefier tube retained by the system and configured to receive the fed consumable material;a heater assembly retained by the system and configured to heat the liquefier tube to melt the received consumable material;a nozzle retained by the liquefier tube and configured to extrude the molten consumable material as an extrudate;at least one sensor that is configured to operably measure pressure within the liquefier tube; anda controller assembly configured to adjust feed rates of the consumable material with the drive mechanism based on the measured pressure to control a material flow rate of the extrudate in a closed-loop manner.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises a strain gauge.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the liquefier tube is configured to expand while melting and extruding the consumable material claim 1 , and wherein the strain gauge is configured to operably measure the pressure within the liquefier tube by operably measuring the expansion of the liquefier tube.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller assembly is configured to control the material flow rate of the extrudate in the closed-loop manner to ...

AUTOMATED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS, PRINTING FARM THEREOF, AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

An additive manufacturing system comprising a platen assembly configured to restrain and release a film, a head gantry configured to retain a print head for printing a three-dimensional part on the restrained film, and a removal assembly configured to draw the film having the printed three-dimensional part from the platen assembly and to cut the drawn film. 1. An additive manufacturing system comprising:a platen gantry; a platform portion configured to be operably retained by the platen gantry, and having a surface;', 'a retention bracket biased towards the platform portion and configured to engage the surface of the platform portion for restraining a film therebetween, and to disengage from the surface to release the film;, 'a platen assembly comprisinga head gantry configured to retain a print head for printing a three-dimensional part on the restrained film; anda removal assembly configured to draw the film having the printed three-dimensional part from the platen assembly.2. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the surface of the platform portion comprises at least one indentation configured to draw a vacuum across the surface.3. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , and further comprising a support shaft configured to retain a supply of the film claim 1 , wherein the support shaft is separate from the platen assembly.4. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the platen assembly further comprises a wheel claim 1 , wherein the removal assembly comprises a drive roller claim 1 , and wherein the wheel and the drive roller are configured to nip the film therebetween when the platen assembly engages the removal assembly.5. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the removal assembly is separate from the platen assembly and does not move with the platen assembly.6. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the removal assembly comprises:a motor;a power screw configured to receive rotatable power ...

Automated additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional parts, printing farm thereof, and method of use thereof

An additive manufacturing system comprising a platen assembly configured to restrain and release a film or substrate, a head gantry configured to retain a print head for printing a three-dimensional part on the restrained film or substrate. The additive manufacturing system may also include a removal assembly configured to draw the film having the printed three-dimensional part from the platen assembly and to cut the drawn film.

FILAMENT FEEDING DEVICE HAVING A CAPACITIVE FILAMENT DISPLACEMENT SENSOR FOR USE IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A filament feeding device includes a drive mechanism and a displacement sensor. The drive mechanism is configured to feed a filament along a feed path. The displacement sensor is positioned adjacent the feed path and is configured to determine a velocity and direction in which the filament is fed along the feed path based on at least two capacitance measurements that vary in response to movement of the filament along the feed path. 1. A filament feeding device for use in feeding a filament into a liquefier assembly of an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system , the filament feeding assembly comprising:a drive mechanism configured to feed a filament along a feed path; anda displacement sensor adjacent the feed path and configured to determine a velocity and direction in which the filament is fed along the feed path based on at least two capacitance measurements that vary in response to movement of the filament along the feed path.2. The filament feeding device according to claim 1 , wherein the displacement sensor comprises:a first parallel-plate capacitor adjacent the feed path and configured to sense a first capacitance; anda second parallel-plate capacitor adjacent the feed path and separated from the first parallel-plate capacitor along the feed path, the second parallel-plate capacitor configured to sense a second capacitance; andwherein the first and second capacitors are configured to send signals to a processing unit comprising a processor configured to determine the velocity and the direction in which the filament is fed along the feed path based on the signals correlating to the first and second sensed capacitances.3. The filament feeding device according to claim 2 , wherein:the displacement sensor comprises at least one excitation electrode; andthe first parallel-plate capacitor includes a first sense electrode and one of the at least one excitation electrode; andthe second parallel-plate capacitor includes a second sense electrode and one of the at ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH EXTENDED PRINTING VOLUME, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

An additive manufacturing system for printing three-dimensional (3D) parts includes a print foundation, a print head, a drive mechanism, and a supporting surface that creates an air bearing for parts under construction as they move through the system. The print head is configured to print a 3D part onto the print foundation in a layer-by-layer manner in a vertical print plane. The drive mechanism is configured to index the print foundation substantially along a horizontal print axis during printing of the 3D part. The support surface is provided by a table extending along the horizontal axis. The table has a plurality of air jets forming an air platen, which generates the air bearing for supporting the 3D part as it is incremented along the print axis. 1. An additive manufacturing system for printing 3D parts , the system comprising:a print foundation;a print head provided in a build zone and configured to print a 3D part onto the print foundation in a layer-by-layer manner in a vertical print plane;a drive mechanism configured to index the print foundation along a horizontal axis during printing of the 3D part; anda table extending along the horizontal axis, the table comprising an air platen configured to generate an air bearing beneath a portion of the 3D part being printed as it advances from the build zone, the air platen comprising a plurality of air jets terminating in upward-facing apertures.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the table further comprises:a pressure chamber in fluid communication with the plurality of air jets;a blower configured to drive an airflow into the pressure chamber.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the blower is configured to drive the airflow along an air pathway and into the pressure chamber.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the table comprises a plurality of table sections extending along the horizontal axis.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein each table section comprises:an air platen configured to generate an air bearing ...

CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY WITH PAYOUT TUBE FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system, the payout tube comprising a tip end having an inlet opening, a base end having an outlet opening, and a tube body having an average effective outer diameter that is substantially greater than an effective inner diameter of the inlet opening. 120-. (canceled)21. A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly for use with an additive manufacturing system , the payout tube comprising:a base end having an outlet opening;a tip end having an inlet opening;a tubular main body extending along a longitudinal length and connecting the tip end and the base end and the tubular main body having a substantially smooth inner geometry; andwherein the tip end has an inlet opening smaller than the outlet opening of the base end.22. The payout tube of claim 21 , wherein an outer diameter of the inlet opening is greater than an inner diameter of the inlet opening.23. The payout tube of claim 21 , wherein the tubular main body has an outer geometry that is conical between the tip end and the base end.24. The payout tube of claim 21 , and having an outer geometry that is substantially smooth between the tip end and the base end.25. The payout tube of claim 23 , wherein the tip end has a rounded outer geometry.26. The payout tube of claim 21 , wherein the tubular main body has an outer geometry that is cylindrical between the tip end and the base end.27. The payout tube of claim 26 , wherein the outer geometry further comprises at least one pair of opposing flanges extending between the tip end and the base end.28. The payout tube of claim 26 , wherein the tip end has an outer geometry that is substantially flat in a direction lateral to the longitudinal length of the tubular main body.29. The payout tube of claim 21 , wherein the outlet opening of the base end comprises an integral lip extending ...

Support structure removal system

A support structure removal system comprising a vessel and a second component. The vessel comprises a vessel body, a porous floor configured to retain a three-dimensional part, and an impeller rotatably mounted below the porous floor. The second component comprises a surface configured to operably receive the vessel, and a rotation-inducing assembly located below the surface, where the rotation-inducing assembly is configured to rotate the impeller with magnetic fields when the vessel is received on the surface of the second component to agitate and direct flows of an aqueous fluid through the porous floor.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR PRINTING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS WITH PURGE TOWERS

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method including printing layers of the three-dimensional part and of a support structure for the three-dimensional part from multiple print heads or deposition lines, and switching the print heads or deposition line between stand-by modes and operating modes in-between the printing of the layers of the three-dimensional part and the support structure. The method also includes performing a purge operation for each print head or deposition line switched to the operating mode, where the purge operation includes printing a layer of at least one purge tower from the print head or deposition line switched to the operating mode.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL PARTS HAVING INTERCONNECTED HOLLOW PATTERNS, AND METHOD FOR GENERATING AND PRINTING THEREOF

A three-dimensional part printed using an additive manufacturing technique, which includes sets of printed cell layers, each defining an array of hollow cells with wall segments, and sets of printed transition layers, each being disposed between adjacent printed cell layers, where the sets of printed transition layers each comprise sloped walls that diverge from a first portion of the wall segments and that converge towards a second portion of the wall segments to interconnect the hollow cells of adjacent printed cell layers, and where the sloped walls of adjacent printed transition layers have printing orientations that are rotated from each other in a build plane.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING BODY TISSUE SPHINCTERS AND THE LIKE

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area. 131-. (canceled)32. A medical implant , the medical implant comprising: (i) a housing assembly defining a first hollow interior and a second hollow interior positioned concentrically around the first hollow interior, wherein the first hollow interior extends from a first aperture to a second aperture, and', '(ii) at least one magnet disposed within the second hollow interior; and, '(a) a plurality of beads, wherein each bead comprises(b) a plurality of links joining the beads together, wherein portions of the links are slidably disposed in corresponding first hollow interiors of the beads such that the plurality of beads are operable to transition between an constricted configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the housing assembly of adjacent beads in the plurality of beads are configured to abut against each other in the constricted configuration.33. The medical implant of claim 32 , wherein the first hollow interior is isolated from the second hollow interior.34. The medical implant of claim 32 , wherein the housing assembly of each bead comprises a first housing component and a second housing component claim 32 , wherein the first housing component and the second housing component are ...

CONSUMABLE ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED LAYERED DEPOSITION SYSTEMS

A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube. 140-. (canceled)41. A consumable assembly for use in an extrusion-based layered deposition system having a substrate assembly , a mount , a gantry configured to move the mount relative to the substrate assembly , and a loading bay offset from the mount , wherein the consumable assembly comprises: an outer casing configured to be received by the loading bay, and having an interior region; and', 'a spool rotatably retained within the interior region of the outer casing of the container, wherein a portion of a filament is wound on the spool;, 'a container comprising a casing, wherein part of the casing of the head is retainable by the mount in a manner that allows the head to be replaced with a second head of a second consumable assembly;', a first portion retained by the casing of the head, and having an inlet end located within the casing of the head; and', 'a second portion located outside of the head casing and having an extrusion tip; and, 'a liquefier tube comprising], 'a head comprising a first tube portion secured to the outer casing of the container, and having an inlet accessible to the interior region of the outer casing to receive successive segments of the filament fed from the spool;', 'a second tube portion having an outlet that is positioned at an angle relative to the inlet end of the liquefier tube to provide the successive segments of the fed filament to the inlet end of the liquefier tube; and', 'a flexibility and a length between the first and second tube portions such that, when the head is retained by the mount and the outer casing of the container is mounted to the loading bay, the gantry is capable of moving the mount with the retained head;', 'wherein the flexible tube interconnects the container and the head such that the head is removed from the mount ...

Additive manufacturing with soluble build sheet and part marking

A method for producing three-dimensional parts, which includes printing the three-dimensional parts and associated support structures onto soluble build sheets, marking each three-dimensional part with information relating to the three-dimensional part, and removing the associated support structures and the soluble build sheets from the printed three-dimensional parts with an aqueous solution using a support removal process. The markings remain applied to the three-dimensional parts after the support removal process, and preferably do not detract from aesthetic qualities of the three-dimensional parts.

SUPPORT CLEANING SYSTEM

An automated support cleaning system comprising a tank disposed within a housing and configured to circulate an aqueous cleaning solution to remove a support structure from a three-dimensional model. 120-. (canceled)21. An automated method for removing a support structure from a three-dimensional model built with a fused deposition modeling system , the method comprising:providing a support cleaning system having a tank that is separated into at least two chambers with at least one porous barrier and having a user interface for receiving user input;inserting the three-dimensional model and the support structure into a first chamber of the at least two chambers;introducing a support removal composition into the tank; introducing a carrier medium into the tank such that the carrier medium flows through the at least one porous barrier to fill the at least two chambers to a selected fill level;', 'at least partially dissolving the support removal composition in the carrier medium to form a cleaning solution;', 'heating the cleaning solution in the tank;', 'monitoring fluid levels in the tank to approximately maintain the selected fill level;', 'agitating the cleaning solution in a second chamber of the at least two chambers to create a flow of the cleaning solution through each chamber of the tank;', 'at least partially dissolving the support structure in the first chamber with the flowing cleaning solution, and', 'draining the cleaning solution from the tank after at least partially dissolving the support structure., 'initiating an automated support removal operation in response to a user input, comprising the steps of22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the support removal composition is introduced into a third chamber of the tank claim 21 , the third chamber in fluid communication with the at least two chambers.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein the support removal composition comprises:a perhydrate-based oxidizing agent;a chelating agent; anda material selected ...

Consumable assembly for use in extrusion-based layered deposition systems

A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube.

LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, the liquefier assembly comprising a downstream portion having a first average inner cross-sectional area, and an upstream having a second average inner cross-sectional area that is less than the first inner cross-sectional area, the upstream portion defining a shoulder configured to restrict movement of a melt meniscus of a consumable material. 120-. (canceled)21. A liquefier for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the liquefier comprising:an upstream portion configured to receive a supply of consumable filament;a downstream portion configured to receive the consumable filament from the upstream portion; anda shoulder located at an intersection of the upstream portion and the downstream portion.22. The liquefier of claim 21 , wherein the shoulder of the liquefier is configured to restrict upward and downward movements of a melt meniscus of the filament.23. The liquefier of claim 21 , wherein the upstream portion has an upstream inner surface having an upstream inner cross-sectional area and wherein the downstream portion has a downstream inner surface having a downstream inner cross-sectional area wherein the downstream inner cross-sectional areas is greater than the upstream inner cross-sectional area.24. The liquefier of claim 21 , wherein the inner surface of the upstream portion comprises a material providing the inner surface with a low coefficient of friction.25. The liquefier of claim 24 , wherein the inner surface of the upstream portion comprises a fluorinated polymer.26. The liquefier of claim 21 , wherein the upstream portion comprises a plurality of apertures each configured to receive a consumable material and wherein the plurality of apertures each has an upstream inner surface with an upstream average inner cross-sectional area.27. The liquefier of claim 26 , wherein the downstream portion comprises a downstream inner surface having a downstream ...

MULTIPLE-ZONE LIQUEFIER ASSEMBLY FOR EXTRUSION-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, and a method for building a three-dimensional model with the extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, where the liquefier assembly includes a liquefier tube having multiple, independently heatable zones along a longitudinal length of the liquefier tube. 1. A liquefier assembly for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the liquefier assembly comprising:a liquefier tube having a first end and a second end offset along longitudinal length;an extrusion tip secured to the first end of the liquefier tube;a first thermal unit operably secured to the liquefier tube adjacent the first end of the liquefier tube; anda second thermal unit operably secured to the liquefier tube between the first thermal unit and the second end of the liquefier tube, wherein the first thermal unit and the second thermal unit are configured to be operated independently of each other.2. The liquefier assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first thermal unit comprises:a first thermally-conductive component in thermal contact with an outer surface of the liquefier tube; anda first electrically-conductive component configured to heat the first thermally-conductive component;3. The liquefier assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first thermal unit further comprises a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of at least one of the first thermally-conductive component claim 2 , the liquefier tube at a location adjacent to the first thermally-conductive component claim 2 , and a combination thereof.4. The liquefier assembly of claim 2 , wherein the second thermal unit comprises:a second thermally-conductive component in thermal contact with the outer surface of the liquefier tube; anda second electrically-conductive component configured to heat the second thermally-conductive component.5. The liquefier assembly of claim 4 , wherein the second thermal unit further comprises a second ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED PRINT FAILURE DETECTION AND RE-SUBMISSION

A method includes receiving an indication that a 3D printer has encountered an error printing an instance of a 3D print job and selecting an idle 3D printer to print the instance of the 3D print job. Previous printing instructions for the instance of the 3D print job are changed based on the selected idle 3D printer and the changed printing instructions are provided to the selected idle 3D printer. 1. A method comprising:receiving an indication that a 3D printer has encountered an error printing an instance of a 3D print job;selecting an idle 3D printer to print the instance of the 3D print job;changing previous printing instructions for the instance of the 3D print job based on the selected idle 3D printer; andproviding the changed printing instructions to the selected idle 3D printer.2. The method of wherein selecting the idle 3D printer comprises matching print parameters of the instance of the 3D print job to parameters of the idle 3D printer.3. The method of wherein matching print parameters of the instance comprises:retrieving the print parameters of the instance of the 3D print job;increasing a priority level in the retrieved print parameters to form modified print parameters;storing the modified print parameters in a matching queue containing print parameters for another 3D print job;selecting the modified print parameters from the matching queue before the print parameters for the another 3D print job based on the increased priority level; andmatching the modified print parameters to the parameters of the idle 3D printer.4. The method of wherein matching print parameters of the instance of the 3D print job comprises matching alternative print parameters of instance of the 3D print job to parameters of the idle 3D printer5. The method of wherein changing previous printing instructions for the instance of the 3D print job comprises slicing a 3D part model associated with the instance of the 3D print job as part of forming new printing instructions and using ...

PRINT ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts, which includes a coarse positioner, a fine positioner, and a liquefier assembly, where a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the fine positioner such that the fine positioner is configured to move the portion of the liquefier assembly relative to the coarse positioner. 1. A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts , the print assembly comprising:a first robotic positioner;a second robotic positioner operably mounted to the first robotic positioner such that the first robotic positioner is configured to move the second robotic positioner, and wherein the second robotic positioner has a higher fundamental resonance frequency than the first robotic positioner; anda liquefier assembly configured to melt and extrude a consumable material, wherein a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner.2. The print assembly of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner has a mass of less than 50 grams.3. The print assembly of claim 2 , wherein the mass of the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner is less than 20 grams.4. The print assembly of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner comprises:an accumulator;a nozzle at an outlet end of the accumulator; andan actuator mechanism configured to controllably apply pressure to transversely compress the accumulator.5. The print assembly of claim 4 , wherein liquefier assembly further comprises:a drive mechanism;a liquefier configured to receive a consumable material from the drive mechanism; andone or more first heater assemblies configured to heat the liquefier for melting the received consumable material.6. The print assembly of claim 5 ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING BODY TISSUE SPHINCTERS AND THE LIKE

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area. 112-. (canceled)13. A method of treating a patient's body tissue structure comprising:surrounding the tissue structure with apparatus for applying resilient pressure to the tissue structure, the apparatus being self-limiting with respect to a smallest area that the apparatus encompasses, the smallest area being a non-zero area, the apparatus including a plurality of bodies in an array that can annularly surround the tissue structure so that each of the bodies contacts the tissue structure, each body in the array having a structural link connecting it to a next adjacent body in the array, each of the links allowing the bodies it connects to move apart from one another in a direction that is annular of the array, and each of the links including a stop that is trapped but movable inside one of the bodies it connects for stopping such movement apart of the bodies it connects when spacing between those bodies reaches a maximum spacing, each link being unconnected to any annularly adjacent link except by the body between that link and the annularly adjacent link.14. The method defined in wherein the surrounding comprises:implanting the apparatus inside the patient's body.15. The method defined in wherein the ...

Additive manufacturing system with sliding thermal isolator

An additive manufacturing system includes a build chamber with at least first and second side walls and top and bottom walls. A central deformable, thermal insulator has a first edge and a second edge, where a print head carriage is movably retained within the central deformable thermal insulator and is configured to move print heads within a build plane of the build chamber under control of a gantry. The system includes first and second dynamic thermal barriers each having a length between a proximal edge and a distal edge wherein the proximal edge is configured to be secured to the central deformable insulator and a distal edge is configured to be movably retained to the build chamber such that as the print head carriage moves laterally across the build plane, each dynamic thermal barrier moves with the central deformable insulator and print head carriage, and retains its length.

RIBBON FILAMENT AND ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate. 1. A ribbon filament for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system with a ribbon liquefier to build a three-dimensional model in a layer-by-layer manner , the ribbon filament comprising:a composition comprising at least one extrudable material;a length that is continuous for at least a distance such that the ribbon filament is feedable from a supply source to the ribbon liquefier retained by a moveable head of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system; anda cross-sectional profile of the length that is axially asymmetric and having a width and a thickness, wherein the width ranges from about 1.0 millimeter to about 10.2 millimeters, wherein the thickness ranges from about 0.51 millimeters to about 1.0 millimeter, and wherein the cross-sectional profile of the ribbon filament has a cross-sectional aspect ratio of the width to the thickness ranging from about 2.5:1 to about 20:1;wherein the ribbon filament exhibits a flexibility such that the ribbon filament does not plastically deform or fracture while retained by the supply source or when fed from the supply source to the ribbon liquefier; andwherein the ribbon filament further exhibits a Young's Modulus value ranging from about 1.0 gigapascal to about 5.0 gigapascals.2. The ribbon filament of claim 1 , wherein the at least one extrudable material comprises a thermoplastic polymeric material.3. The ribbon filament of claim 1 , wherein the cross-sectional profile is ...

System and Method for Printing Three-Dimensional Parts with Magnetic Support Media

An additive manufacturing method and system for printing a three-dimensional part, which includes generating a magnetic field in a build chamber, printing layers of the three-dimensional part in the build chamber, and transferring layers of a magnetic support media to the build chamber in coordination with the printing of the layers of the three-dimensional part. The method also includes magnetically coupling the transferred layers of the magnetic support media in the build chamber with the generated magnetic field to produce a self-supporting bed of the magnetically-coupled media. 1. A system for printing a three-dimensional part , the system comprising:a build chamber;a media hopper configured to provide a supply of a magnetic support media;a transfer zone interconnecting the build chamber and the media hopper;one or more print heads that are configured to print layers of the three-dimensional part from one or more part materials in the build chamber;a transfer mechanism configured to transfer layers of a magnetic support media from the media hopper, across the transfer zone, and into the build chamber; anda plurality of magnets configured to generate a magnetic field in the build chamber.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more print heads comprise one or more extrusion heads claim 1 , one or more jetting heads claim 1 , or combinations thereof.3. The system of claim 1 , and further comprising:a platen disposed in the build chamber;a platen gantry configured to move the platen along a printing axis in the build chamber.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the platen comprises a flexible gasket perimeter for maintaining a seal with walls of the build chamber.5. The system of claim 1 , and further comprising one or more additional print heads for printing layers of a support structure from one or more soluble support materials that at least partially interface between the layers of the three-dimensional part and the magnetic support media.6. The system of ...

Platen Planarizing Process for Additive Manufacturing System

A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system, the method comprising generating and printing a planarizing part having a substantially-planar top surface relative to a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors a topography of a platen surface, and printing the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part. 1. A method for printing a three-dimensional part with an additive manufacturing system having a platen with a platen surface , the method comprising:measuring heights of multiple points of the platen surface, wherein the measured heights provide a mapped topography of the platen surface;calculating a height of a planarizing part as a function of the measured heights;generating a digital model of the planarizing part based on the calculated height and the mapped topography of the platen surface;printing the planarizing part with the additive manufacturing system based on the generated digital model of the planarizing part, wherein the printed planarizing part has a substantially-planar top surface in a build plane, and a bottom surface that substantially mirrors the mapped topography of the platen surface; andprinting the three-dimensional part over the substantially-planar top surface of the printed planarizing part.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the multiple points of the platen surface are located within a bounding box of the three-dimensional part.3. The method of claim 1 , and further comprising heating at least the platen to one or more operating temperatures prior to measuring the heights.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein calculating the height of the planarizing part as a function of the measured heights comprises:determining a peak height of the measured heights; andcalculating the height of the planarizing part as a function of the determined peak height deviation and at least one slice thickness for the planarizing part.6. The method of ...

CORE-SHELL FILAMENT FOR USE IN EXTRUSION-BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF PRINTING PARTS

A filament for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system includes an elastomeric core and a harder, non-elastomeric shell. The core compositionally comprising an elastomeric core material having a flexural modulus of less than 31,000 psi and a durameter of less than 80 Shore. The shell overlays the core portion and compositionally comprises a non-elastomeric thermoplastic shell material that is substantially miscible with the elastomeric core material, wherein the core material and the shell material have the same monomer chemistry. The non-elastomeric thermoplastic shell material has a flexural modulus that is greater than the flexural modulus of the elastomeric core material by at least a factor of five, wherein the shell provides sufficient strength or stiffness to the filament such that filament can be utilized as a feedstock in the extrusion-based additive manufacturing system. 1. A filament for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system , the filament comprising:a core compositionally comprising an elastomeric core material having a flexural modulus of less than 31,000 psi and a durameter of less than 80 Shore A; anda shell covering the core and having a thickness t, the shell compositionally comprising a non-elastomeric thermoplastic shell material that is substantially miscible with the elastomeric core material and has the same monomer chemistry as the elastomeric core material, and wherein the non-elastomeric thermoplastic shell material has a flexural modulus that is at least five times greater than the flexural modulus of the elastomeric core material,wherein the shell provides sufficient stiffness to the filament such that filament can be utilized as a feedstock in the extrusion-based additive manufacturing system.2. The filament of claim 1 , wherein the flexural modulus of the shell is at least 10 times greater than the flexural modulus of the cores.3. The filament of claim 1 , having a stiffness that is greater than a ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH A CHANNELED STARTER PIECE AND METHOD OF PRINTING A 3D PART UTILIZING THE STARTER PIECE

An additive manufacturing system for printing a 3D part includes a build platen and a starter piece supported by the build platen. The starter piece comprises a build surface having a plurality of channels and wherein the build surface has a void fraction due to an open surface area of the channels ranging from about 0.5 to about 0.95. The print head includes a nozzle configured to extrude a molten material in a print plane and wherein the extruded material is configured fill a space between the build surface and the print plane and at least partially fill a portion of the plurality of channels such that a base layer of material is printed having a substantially planar surface upon which a 3D part can be printed along a print axis. 1. An additive manufacturing system for printing a 3D part by forming successive two-dimensional layers , the system comprising:a build platen;a starter piece configured to be removably secured to the build platen, the starter piece comprising a substantially flat build surface and an opposing base surface, and a repeating pattern of open channels that terminate at the build surface, wherein the build surface has a void fraction due to an open surface area of the channels ranging from about 0.5 to about 0.95; anda print head having a print nozzle configured to extrude roads of a molten material onto the build surface of the starter piece while traveling along toolpaths in a print plane, wherein the print plane is nominally about a layer height above the build surface of the starter piece to form a base layer parallel to the print plane, wherein the extruded roads in the base layer are configured fill the space between the build surface and the print plane, and wherein the channels are configured to provide a relief space for receiving any excess material extruded into the layer space, thereby providing a substantially planar surface upon which a 3D part can be printed.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the print plane is substantially ...

FILAMENT SUPPLY WITH SEALED CONNECTOR FOR USE WITH A 3D PRINTER

A consumable assembly for supplying filament to a 3D printer having two or more receptacles having different geometric configurations, the 3D printer builds parts by material extrusion. The consumable assembly includes a container configured to retain a supply of a first filament, and a first filament guide tube having a length, the first filament guide tube having an inlet end attached to the first container and an outlet end, The consumable assembly includes a key having a geometric configuration allowing the key to be plugged into only one receptacle of the two or more receptacles of the 3D printer, the key comprising a conduit having an entrance and an exit, a coupling portion, and an engagement portion, wherein the entrance to the conduit is coupled to the outlet end of the first filament guide tube to thereby form a closed filament path from the first container to the 3D printer. 1. An additive manufacturing system comprising:a 3D printer having a first and a second print head each configured to receive a filament, melt the filament, and deposit the melted filament to form a 3D part, and having a first receptacle and a second receptacle each configured for accepting a plug-in connector from a filament supply, the first and second receptacles having different geometric configurations; a first container configured to retain a supply of a first filament;', an inlet end attached to the first container; and', 'an outlet end;, 'a first filament guide tube having a length, the first filament guide tube comprising, 'a first key having a first geometric configuration allowing the first key to be plugged into the first receptacle and comprising a conduit having an entrance and an exit, a coupling portion, and an engagement portion, wherein the entrance to the conduit is coupled to the outlet end of the first filament guide tube to thereby form a closed filament path from the first container to the 3D printer; and, 'a first filament supply comprising a second container ...

PRINT ASSEMBLY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts , which includes a coarse positioner , a fine positioner , and a liquefier assembly , where a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the fine positioner such that the fine positioner is configured to move the portion of the liquefier assembly relative to the coarse positioner 1. A print assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts , the print assembly comprising:a first robotic positioner;a second robotic positioner operably mounted to the first robotic positioner such that the first robotic positioner is configured to move the second robotic positioner, and wherein the second robotic positioner has a higher fundamental resonance frequency than the first robotic positioner; anda liquefier assembly configured to melt and extrude a consumable material, wherein a portion of the liquefier assembly is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner.2. The print assembly of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner has a mass of less than 50 grams.3. The print assembly of claim 2 , wherein the mass of the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner is less than 20 grams.4. The print assembly of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the liquefier assembly that is operably mounted to the second robotic positioner comprises:an accumulator;a nozzle at an outlet end of the accumulator; andan actuator mechanism configured to controllably apply pressure to transversely compress the accumulator.5. The print assembly of claim 4 , wherein liquefier assembly further comprises:a drive mechanism;a liquefier configured to receive a consumable material from the drive mechanism; andone or more first heater assemblies configured to heat the liquefier for melting the received consumable material.6. The print assembly of ...

LAYER TRANSFUSION FOR HEAT CAPACITOR BELT FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

An additive manufacturing system comprising a transfer medium configured to receive the layers from a imaging engine, a heater configured to heat the layers on the transfer medium, and a layer transfusion assembly that includes a build platform, and is configured to transfuse the heated layers onto the build platform in a layer-by-layer manner to print a three-dimensional part. 1. An additive manufacturing system for printing a three-dimensional part , the additive manufacturing system comprising:an imaging engine configured to develop an imaged layer;a movable build platform;{'sup': 2', '0.5, 'a rotatable belt configured to receive the imaged layer from the imaging engine, wherein the rotatable belt has an average thermal inertia of at least about 400 joules/(meter-Kelvin-second);'}a first heater configured to heat the rotatable belt and the imaged layer on the rotatable belt;a nip roller configured to press the heated imaged layer conveyed by the rotatable belt onto a top layer of the three-dimensional part retained by the movable build platform; anda release roller configured to separate the pressed imaged layer from the heated rotatable belt such that the pressed imaged layer remains adhered as a new top layer of the three-dimensional part;wherein the rotatable belt is configured to thermally conduct heat into the three-dimensional part while the pressed imaged layer moves between the nip roller and the release roller.2. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the first heater comprises a non-contact radiant heater.3. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , and further comprising a second heater configured to post-heat the three-dimensional part having the new top layer.4. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the nip roller is configured to be heated.5. The additive manufacturing system of claim 1 , wherein the moveable build platform is configured to move in a reciprocating rectangular pattern that is synchronized with a ...

Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area.

Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area.

Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area.

Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like

A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area.

Viscosity pump for extrusion-based deposition systems

A pump system comprising a delivery assembly configured to feed a solid material under operational power of a first drive motor, and a screw pump comprising a housing that at least partially defines a barrel of the screw pump, an extrusion tip secured to the housing at a first end of the barrel, a liquefier secured to the housing and intersecting with the barrel, and an impeller extending at least partially through the barrel. The liquefier is configured to receive the solid material fed from the delivery assembly, to at least partially melt the received solid material, and to direct the at least partially melted material to the barrel, and the impeller is configured to drive the at least partially melted material that is directed to the barrel toward the extrusion tip under operational power of a second drive motor.

Thin-wall tube liquifier

A rapid prototyping system has a liquifier carried by a extrusion head. The liquifier is formed of a single piece of thin-wall tubing preferably made of metal, encased in a heating block. The thin-wall tube has a inlet end for receiving a filament of molding material and an outlet end for delivering the material in liquid form. A first section of the tube adjacent the inlet end functions as the entrance or cap zone. This first section of the tube is exterior to the heating block. The tube has a second section which passes through the heating block forming a heating zone. A nozzle can be formed by swaging the outlet end of the tube to a nozzle geometry, or, a nozzle may be brazed or welded to the outlet end of the tube. The heating block preferably contains a heating element in heat exchange relation to the second section of the tube to heat the filament to a temperature just above its solidification temperature. The extrusion head may alternatively carry two liquifiers that share a common nozzle, for receiving and dispensing two different materials.

Filament loading system in an extrusion apparatus

An apparatus which extrudes flowable material from a liquifier includes a system for loading filament supplied in a cassette. The cassette is loaded into a loading bay of the apparatus. A strand of filament from the cassette is engaged and advanced along a path to the liquifier using a drive wheel or roller pair. A conduit having an entrance in the loading bay guides the filament as it is advanced. The filament loading system of the present invention provides a convenient manner of loading and unloading filament in a three-dimensional modeling machine, and can be implemented in a manner that protects the filament from environmental moisture.

High temperature modeling apparatus

Disclosed is a three-dimensional modeling apparatus ( 10 ) that builds up three-dimensional objects in a heated build chamber ( 24 ) by dispensing modeling material from a dispensing head ( 14 ) onto a base ( 16 ) in a pattern determined by control signals from a controller ( 140 ). The motion control components ( 18, 20 ) of the apparatus ( 10 ) are external to and thermally isolated from the build chamber ( 24 ). A deformable thermal insulator ( 132 ) forms a ceiling of the building chamber, allowing motion control of the dispensing head ( 14 ) in an x, y plane by an x-y gantry ( 18 ) located outside of and insulated from the build chamber ( 24 ). In the preferred embodiment, a material dispensing outlet ( 66 ) of the dispensing head is inside the chamber. Thermal isolation of the motion control components from the build chamber allows the chamber to be maintained at a high temperature.

Viscosity pump for extrusion-based deposition systems

A pump system comprising a delivery assembly configured to feed a solid material under operational power of a first drive motor, and a screw pump comprising a housing that at least partially defines a barrel of the screw pump, an extrusion tip secured to the housing at a first end of the barrel, a liquefier secured to the housing and intersecting with the barrel, and an impeller extending at least partially through the barrel. The liquefier is configured to receive the solid material fed from the delivery assembly, to at least partially melt the received solid material, and to direct the at least partially melted material to the barrel, and the impeller is configured to drive the at least partially melted material that is directed to the barrel toward the extrusion tip under operational power of a second drive motor.

Filament cassette and loading system

Disclosed are a filament cassette and a filament loading assembly for supplying filament in a three-dimensional deposition modeling machine. The filament cassette contains a rotatable spool of filament, and has an exit orifice through which a filament strand may exit the cassette. The filament loading assembly is mounted on the modeling machine and receives the filament cassette. The filament loading assembly has conduit for receiving a strand of filament from the cassette and a drive means for advancing the filament strand through the conduit. The filament cassette and loading assembly of the present invention provide a convenient manner of loading and unloading filament from the modeling machine. The filament cassette and the conduit may be made airtight so that the filament is protected from moisture in the environment.

Method for building three-dimensional models in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems using ribbon filaments

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate.

Apparatus and methods for closing septal defects and occluding blood flow

Plugs and methods for plugging septal defects and blood vessels are provided. Plugs are delivered via catheter to a septal defect or a location where it is desired to occlude blood flow in a blood vessel. The plugs are positioned and expanded at the treatment site. The expansion of the plugs can be accomplished passively by using a heat-treated elastic frame or actively by using a balloon to deform a plastically-deforming frame. Plugging structures mounted to the frame span the defect or lumen and prevent blood flow. The plugs described herein have small profiles, and are more reliable than preceding intraluminal transcatheter methods.

Support cleaning system

An automated support cleaning system (10) comprising a tank (20) disposed within a housing (12, 14) and configured to circulate an aqueous cleaning solution to remove a support structure from a three-dimensional model.

Breathing tube connection for respiratory protective headgear

A connector for attachment of a breathing tube to a respirator. The connector includes a first conduit and a transition conduit that form a connector body. A cantilevered snap latch extends from the connector body. A connector assembly including a recessed receiving structure on a respirator helmet adapted for receiving the connector.

Attachment system for replaceable helmet respirator lens

A replaceable lens attachment system (10) for respiratory devices and methods of use. The replaceable lens attachment system (10) includes a face shield frame (14) having rotatable attachment members (32) and a replaceable lens (16). The rotatable attachment members (32) include cams (34) and flanges (36). The attachment system (10) may further comprise a helmet respirator with support elements (15) disposed thereon. The method includes bowing the lens (16) and inserting it into the frame (14). The rotatable attachment members are rotated to urge the lens into the frame (14) and cover the frame. The flanges (36) and support elements (15) provide impact resistance to the lens.

Consumable assembly with payout tube for additive manufacturing system

A payout tube for enabling payout of a consumable filament from a consumable assembly that is configured for use with an additive manufacturing system, the payout tube comprising a tip end having an inlet opening, a base end having an outlet opening, and a tube body having an average effective outer diameter that is substantially greater than an effective inner diameter of the inlet opening.

Consumable materials having topographical surface patterns for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems

A consumable material (34) for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system (10), the consumable material (34) comprising a topographical surface pattern (40) that is configured to engage with a drive mechanism (56) of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system (10).

Septal defect closure device

Plugs and methods for plugging septal defects and blood vessels are provided. Plugs are delivered via catheter to a septal defect or a location where it is desired to occlude blood flow in a blood vessel. The plugs are positioned and expanded at the treatment site. The expansion of the plugs can be accomplished passively by using a heat-treated elastic frame or actively by using a balloon to deform a plastically-deforming frame. Plugging structures mounted to the frame span the defect or lumen and prevent blood flow. The plugs described herein have small profiles, and are more reliable than preceding intraluminal transcatheter methods.

Additive manufacturing system with extended printing volume, and methods of use thereof

An additive manufacturing system (30) for printing three-dimensional parts (50), the system (30) comprising a heatable region (34), a receiving surface (36a), a print head (40) configured to print a three-dimensional part (50) onto the receiving surface (36a) in a layer-by-layer manner along a printing axis, and a drive mechanism (38) configured to index the receiving surface (36a) along the printing axis such that the receiving surface (36a) and at least a portion of the three-dimensional part (50) move out of the heatable region (34).

Consumable assembly for use in extrusion-based layered deposition systems

A consumable assembly (18, 118, 218, 318) comprising a container portion (34, 134, 234, 334) configured to retain a supply of filament (386), a guide tube (36, 136, 236, 336) connected to the container portion (34, 134, 234, 334), and a pump portion (38, 138, 238, 338) connected to the guide tube (36, 136, 236, 336).

Non-cylindrical filaments for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems

A consumable material for use in an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, the consumable material comprising a length and a cross-sectional profile of at least a portion of the length that is axially asymmetric. The cross-sectional profile is configured to provide a response time with a non-cylindrical liquefier of the extrusion-based digital manufacturing system that is faster than a response time achievable with a cylindrical filament in a cylindrical liquefier for a same thermally limited, maximum volumetric flow rate.

Pantograph assembly for digital manufacturing system

A digital manufacturing system for producing first and second objects comprises a platen, a gantry, a pantograph extrusion head system and first and second sets of extruders. The platen defines a workspace upon which the objects are produced. The gantry defines a headspace displaced from the workspace. The extrusion head system is mounted to the gantry for movement in the headspace. The sets of extruders are connected to the extrusion head system and are configured to deposit extrusion material on the workspace to build the objects. Each set of extruders comprises a first extruder mounted to the extrusion head system; a second extruder mounted to the extrusion head system so as to be actuatable from a first to a second position; and a flexible linkage connecting the extruders. The flexible linkages position the second extruders in approximately equal known spatial relationships to the first extruders in the second positions.

Apparatus and methods for creating anastomoses

Apparatus and methods for creating anastomoses are provided. An incision tool for creating an incision having a controlled length in a side wall of a patient's body tissue conduit is provided. A delivery device for inserting a hollow annular connector into an incision in a side wall of a patient's body tissue conduit is provided. The delivery device may include first and second anvil structures around which the connector may be disposed. By moving the first anvil structure away from the second anvil structure, the connector may expand to a desired configuration (e.g., non-round) within the aperture. In one example, the connector may be inserted into the aperture to hold the aperture open prior to attachment of a graft conduit to the aperture, thereby allowing a physician to inspect the aperture and the surrounding tissue.

Liquefier assemblies for additive manufacturing systems, and methods of use thereof

A liquefier assembly (20) for use in an additive manufacturing system (10) to print three-dimensional parts (12). In one aspect, the liquefier assembly (20) includes a liquefier (52) that is transversely compressible, and having an inlet end (64) configured to receive a consumable material (48) in a solid or molten state and an outlet end (66), a nozzle (56) at the outlet end, and an actuator mechanism (62) configured to transversely compress and expand the liquefier (52) in a controlled manner. In another aspect, the liquefier assembly (20) is self heating.

Medical grafting methods and apparatus

Methods and apparatus for making an anastomotic connection between a first conduit (10) and a second conduit (20). A connector structure (200) having a first end portion and a second end portion is positioned about a balloon catheter (300), which when pressurized, expands to a significant extent at the distal end thereof. The balloon (300) enlarges the connector structure (200) when positioned at the distal end portion of the balloon (300) to create the anastomosis, and at the same time reduces the axial length of the connector (200), thereby compressing the first conduit (10) to the second conduit (20), creating a hemodynamic seal and a firm attachment of the two conduits (10, 20). After enlargement, the connector structure (200) remains in place and adds structure to the anastomosis. During introduction, the second end portion of the connector is covered by a nosecone assembly (404) to prevent trauma to the second conduit (20) while the apparatus is being introduced. The nosecone assembly (404) has a flexible structure which may change configuration to expose the second set of members (218) after insertion into the second conduit (20) and to allow removal of the nosecone (404) after deployment.

Attachment system for replaceable helmet respirator lens

A replaceable lens attachment system (10) for respiratory devices and methods of use. The replaceable lens attachment system (10) includes a face shield frame (14) having rotatable attachment members (32) and a replaceable lens (16). The rotatable attachment members (32) include cams (34) and flanges (36). The attachment system (10) may further comprise a helmet respirator with support elements (15) disposed thereon. The method includes bowing the lens (16) and inserting it into the frame (14). The rotatable attachment members are rotated to urge the lens into the frame (14) and cover the frame. The flanges (36) and support elements (15) provide impact resistance to the lens.

Medical grafting methods and apparatus

Methods and apparatus for making an anastomotic connection between first and second tubular fluid conduits. For example, a connector may be configured for attachment to the first and second tubular fluid conduits and have an interior thereof substantially accessible to the interior of the first tubular fluid conduit. The connector may be configured for annular enlargement. An expandable structure is provided having a first portion configured to annularly enlarge the connector by engaging the interior of the connector. A second portion may be configured to extend through an opening in the medial portion of the first tubular fluid conduit.

Catheter arm with variable stiffness

Medical graft component and methods of installing same

Filament spool auto-change in a modeling machine

A filament cassette and a filament loading assembly supply modeling filament to a liquifier in a three-dimensional deposition modeling machine. Two or more cassettes containing spooled filament are inserted into the machine. A strand of filament from a first one of the cassettes is fed to the liquifier for extrusion. Without operator intervention, the filament strand from the first cassette is withdrawn from the liquifier, and a filament strand from a second one of the cassettes is fed to the liquifier. The switching of filament feed sources is triggered by an event, such as an identification that the filament from the first cassette has reached a predetermined minimum length. In this manner, a used primary filament cassette is automatically replaced with a standby filament cassette, so that the machine need not experience downtime waiting for an operator to change the cassettes.

Liquefier assemblies for additive manufacturing systems, and methods of use thereof

A liquefier assembly for use in an additive manufacturing system to print three-dimensional parts. In one aspect, the liquefier assembly includes a liquefier that is transversely compressible, and having an inlet end configured to receive a consumable material in a solid or molten state and an outlet end, a nozzle at the outlet end, and an actuator mechanism configured to transversely compress and expand the liquefier in a controlled manner In another aspect, the liquefier assembly is self heating.