Method and apparatus for data manipulation and system control in a selective deposition modeling system

• Main Authors: Earl, Jocelyn M, Manners, Chris R, Kerekes, Thomas A, Marygold, Paul H, Thayer, Jeffrey S
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 11.03.2003

This invention relates to techniques for data manipulation and building control for forming three-dimensional (3D) objects, more particularly it relates to techniques for use in Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (RP&M) Systems and most particularly to data manipulation and building control methods and apparatus for use in a Thermal Stereolithography (TSL) system, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) system, or other Selective Deposition Modeling (SDM) system. A method of manipulating data in a method for forming a three-dimensional object layer by layer from an ink jettable, solidifiable material by providing data corresponding to a plurality of polygons defining the outer surfaces of a plurality of three-demiensional objects and providing sets of x, y, and z coordinates corresponding to each layer and identifying x and y coordinates with each z coordinate such that directional values and counter values are determined for each y coordinate in a first set of coordinates generated. A second set of y coordinates are generated according to a formula that permits the determined layers to be processed to form a three-dimensional object.