A Novel Device for Producing Three-Dimensional Objects

Abstract

This work describes a novel device for producing three-dimensional objects that has been developed using a liquid crystal display as a programmable, dynamic mask and visible light to initiate photopolymerization. This device has the potential to produce three-dimensional objects of comparable quality to the existing commercial devices, but in significantly less time. Additionally, capital, maintenance and operating costs are expected to be substantially lower than those for laser-based systems. The reduction in time and expense could expand this technology into the realm of custom part production and further increase the accessibility and usefulness of solid freeform fabrication and rapid prototyping.