Solid imaging apparatus and method with coating station

Abstract

A solid imaging apparatus and method produces an integral three-dimensional object from a multiplicity of cross sectional portions of the object by selectively exposing successive layers of a liquid photoformable composition to actinic radiation. The apparatus includes a vessel for containing the composition so as to present a free surface, and a movable platform disposed within the vessel below the free surface. Part of the composition is transferred above the free surface by lowering and raising a dispenser at predetermined positions located away from the platform. A doctor blade contacts the composition transferred above the free surface, and then moves over the platform to form a substantially uniform layer of the composition.

1 . In an apparatus for fabricating an integral three-dimensional object by selectively exposing successive layers of a liquid photoformable composition to actinic radiation, said apparatus including an imaging means for exposing said layers, a vessel for containing a fixed amount of said composition so as to present a free surface at a substantially constant position relative to said imaging means, and a movable platform disposed within said vessel below said free surface, the improvement in said apparatus comprising: 
 a means to transfer a part of said composition above said free surface; and    a layering means for contacting the composition transferred above said free surface and moving over said platform to form a layer of said composition.