Inventors: Ryan Wicker, Eric MacDonald, David Espalin, Danny Muse, Francisco Medina
Patent No. 10-2015-7028973 KR South Korea
Description:"This patent application embeds filaments such
as wires or meshes into 3D printed
thermoplastic devices. Then an energy
source is applied, generating heat,
allowing the formation of 3D structural
components, devices, or systems. The
filaments can also be connected to other
filaments and components."
Abstract:The present invention provides systems and methods for embedding a filament or filament mesh in a three-dimensional structure, structural component, or structural electronic, electromagnetic or electromechanical component/device by providing at least a first layer of a substrate material, and embedding at least a portion of a filament or filament mesh within the first layer of the substrate material such the portion of the filament or filament mesh is substantially flush with a top surface of the first layer and a substrate material in a flowable state is displaced by the portion of the filament and does not substantially protrude above the top surface of the first layer, allowing the continuation of an additive manufacturing process above the embedded filament or filament mesh. A method is provided for creating interlayer mechanical or electrical attachments or connections using filaments within a three-dimensional structure, structural component, or structural electronic, electromagnetic or electromechanical component/device.
Issue Date: 01/26/2021
Application Date: 03/14/2014
Post Date: 05/14/2018
UTEP Docket No: 2013-004A
