Robert G Howe

US Patent:

53064461, Apr 26, 1994

Filed:

Jul 10, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/911715

Inventors:

Robert J. Howe - Muskego WI

International Classification:

B29C 3508

US Classification:

264 22

Abstract:

An apparatus for producing three dimensional objects by irradiating uncured photopolymeric material to solidify at least portions of the photopolymeric material, the apparatus being adapted to be used with film material which does not substantially interfere with transmission of radiation therethrough, the apparatus comprising: a tank adapted to contain liquid photopolymeric material, the liquid photopolymeric material in the tank defining an upper generally horizontal surface; a selectively operable source of radiation for solidifying the liquid photopolymeric material in the tank; and structure for smoothing the upper generally horizontal surface of the liquid photopolymeric material in the tank while moving from a first position on one side of the tank to a second position on another side of the tank, and for simultaneously laying a sheet of the film material onto the liquid photopolymeric material while moving from the first position to the second position.