Digital fabrication of metallic articles

This invention describes a way to create detailed metallic objects by using an inkjet printer to apply a special UV-curable ink onto a metal surface. After the ink is hardened with UV light, the exposed metal is either built up through electroplating or carved away with acid. Finally, the ink mask is dissolved, leaving the finished metallic article. The claims specify the ink's properties, including its viscosity and photoinitiator content, and list the types of metals that can be used.

Why it matters: Filed before significant advancements in industrial inkjet printhead resolution and UV LED curing efficiency. These improvements could now make the precise, multi-layer metallic article fabrication described more practical and economical.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: SpecializedSpecialized inkjet printer, chemical baths, custom ink.

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