IP Library › Granted Patent US 8,077,894
Granted Patent B2
US 8,077,894 · App. 11/625,371 · Granted Dec 13, 2011

Feature protection for stereo lithographic manufacturing processes

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Quick Facts
Patent No.
US 8,077,894
App. No.
11/625,371
Granted
Dec 13, 2011
Kind
B2
Abstract

To prevent stereo lithography (SLA) support structures for parts fabricated in an SLA apparatus from interfering with features in the parts, a structural shield such as a dome may be place around the feature and then discarded at the conclusion of the SLA process.

Claims (10)

1. A method for fabricating a hearing instrument shell comprising at least one aperture, using stereo lithography, comprising:

generating a model of the shell for a stereo lithography fabrication apparatus;

determining the location of at least one aperture in the model of the shell;

selectively adding a structural shield covering the aperture;

providing the model to the stereo lithography fabrication apparatus;

fabricating the shell with the stereo lithography fabrication apparatus; and

removing the structural shield.

2. A method as set forth in claim 1 , where selectively adding a structural shield covering the aperture comprises adding a dome.

3. A method as set forth in claim 1 , where selectively adding a structural shield covering the aperture comprises covering a receiver hole.

4. A method as set forth in claim 1 , where selectively adding a structural shield covering the aperture comprises covering a vent hole.

Assignments (1)
CHANGE OF NAME Recorded Jul 10, 2015
From: SIEMENS HEARING INSTRUMENTS, INC.
To: SIVANTOS, INC.
Reel/Frame 036092/0609 →