Additive manufacturing system having gravity-fed matrix
A matrix supply is disclosed for use with an additive manufacturing system. The matrix supply may include a matrix chamber configured to fluidly communicate a liquid matrix with a print head of the additive manufacturing system. The matrix supply may also include a supply conduit fluidly connected to the matrix chamber, a valve disposed within the supply conduit, and an inlet configured to pass a continuous reinforcement through the matrix chamber to the print head of the additive manufacturing system.
1. A matrix supply for use in an additive manufacturing system, the matrix supply comprising:
a matrix chamber configured to fluidly communicate a liquid matrix to a print head of the additive manufacturing system;
a supply conduit fluidly connected to supply the matrix chamber with the liquid matrix;
a valve disposed within the supply conduit at the matrix chamber;
an overflow control device protruding into the matrix chamber; and
an inlet separate from the supply conduit and configured to pass a continuous reinforcement through the matrix chamber to the print head of the additive manufacturing system,
wherein:
the overflow control device includes an overflow chamber fluidly connected to the matrix chamber;
the overflow control device includes an overflow tube connecting the overflow chamber to the matrix chamber; and
the overflow tube rises up inside of the matrix chamber a distance greater than zero corresponding to a desired matrix level inside of the matrix chamber.
2. The matrix supply of claim 1 , wherein the valve is adjustable to selectively open or close an associated flow-orifice.
3. The matrix supply of claim 2 , wherein the valve is manually adjustable.
4. The matrix supply of claim 1 , further including a tank mounted remotely from the print head and fluidly connected to an end of the supply conduit opposite the matrix chamber.
5. The matrix supply of claim 1 , wherein the overflow chamber is at least partially transparent.
6. The matrix supply of claim 1 , wherein the distance that the overflow tube rises up inside of the matrix chamber is adjustable.
7. The matrix supply of claim 1 , further including a removable lid configured to close off the matrix chamber, wherein the inlet is formed within the lid.