Closed Loop Control Utilizing In-situ Pattern Printing and Reading for Quality Level Determination in Additive Manufacturing

HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is a powder-based technology that selectively melts polymer powder, using a fusing agent, in a layer-by-layer fashion to create 3D parts. One of the challenges for wide adoption of additive manufacturing is the assurance of the print process and part consistency through a cost-effective and non-destructive fashion. Non-destructive part quality measurements can be achieved through a method of printing two-dimensional patterns at desired locations throughout the part. The readability of these patterns provides either the signals to actuate process changes during the print or information on part quality during and after printing. This method can also be used for covert part marking to provide design intellectual property security. ; Mechanical Engineering