5Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
DETAILED ACTION
The action is in response to the Applicant’s communication filed on 12/04/2023.
Claims 1-20 are pending, where claims 1 and 15 are independent.
This application claims the priority benefit of the provisional application no. 63/430,106 filed on 12/05/2022 incorporated herein.
Information Disclosure Statement
The information disclosure statement (IDS) submitted on 03/07/2024 has been filed after the filing date of the application. The submission is in-compliance with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.97. Accordingly, the information disclosure statement is being considered by the examiner.
Multiple filed related applications
Applicants have filed multiple related applications. To date, some of the related applications have been allowed or under NOA and it appears that some related applications are stand pending, yet to be examined. There are plurality of co-pending related Applications and double patenting is proper. See MPEP 804 and 1490 (VI) D:
Nonstatutory Double Patenting
The nonstatutory double patenting rejection is based on a judicially created doctrine grounded in public policy (a policy reflected in the statute) so as to prevent the unjustified or improper timewise extension of the “right to exclude” granted by a patent and to prevent possible harassment by multiple assignees. A nonstatutory double patenting rejection is appropriate where the conflicting claims are not identical, but at least one examined application claim is not patentably distinct from the reference claim(s) because the examined application claim is either anticipated by, or would have been obvious over, the reference claim(s). See, e.g., In re Berg, 140 F.3d 1428, 46 USPQ2d 1226 (Fed. Cir. 1998); In re Goodman, 11 F.3d 1046, 29 USPQ2d 2010 (Fed. Cir. 1993); In re Longi, 759 F.2d 887, 225 USPQ 645 (Fed. Cir. 1985); In re Van Ornum, 686 F.2d 937, 214 USPQ 761 (CCPA 1982); In re Vogel, 422 F.2d 438, 164 USPQ 619 (CCPA 1970); In re Thorington, 418 F.2d 528, 163 USPQ 644 (CCPA 1969).
A timely filed terminal disclaimer in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(c) or 1.321(d) may be used to overcome an actual or provisional rejection based on nonstatutory double patenting provided the reference application or patent either is shown to be commonly owned with the examined application, or claims an invention made as a result of activities undertaken within the scope of a joint research agreement. See MPEP § 717.02 for applications subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA as explained in MPEP § 2159. See MPEP § 2146 et seq. for applications not subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA . A terminal disclaimer must be signed in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(b).
The filing of a terminal disclaimer by itself is not a complete reply to a nonstatutory double patenting (NSDP) rejection. A complete reply requires that the terminal disclaimer be accompanied by a reply requesting reconsideration of the prior Office action. Even where the NSDP rejection is provisional the reply must be complete. See MPEP § 804, subsection I.B.1. For a reply to a non-final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.111(a). For a reply to final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.113(c). A request for reconsideration while not provided for in 37 CFR 1.113(c) may be filed after final for consideration. See MPEP §§ 706.07(e) and 714.13.
The USPTO Internet website contains terminal disclaimer forms which may be used. Please visit www.uspto.gov/patent/patents-forms. The actual filing date of the application in which the form is filed determines what form (e.g., PTO/SB/25, PTO/SB/26, PTO/AIA /25, or PTO/AIA /26) should be used. A web-based eTerminal Disclaimer may be filled out completely online using web-screens. An eTerminal Disclaimer that meets all requirements is auto-processed and approved immediately upon submission. For more information about eTerminal Disclaimers, refer to www.uspto.gov/patents/apply/applying-online/eterminal-disclaimer. See MPEP § 804 and 1490 (VI) D.
Claims 1 and 15 are rejected on the ground of nonstatutory double patenting over the claim 1 of USP No. 12,252,880 B2 (Appl. No. 17/574330 and Pub. No. 2022/0219401A1). The subject matter claimed in the instant application and the patent are claiming similar subject matter, as follows:
Instant Application No. 18/528325
USP No. 12,252,880 B2 (Appl. No. 17/574330 and Pub. No. 2022/0219401A1)
Title
Methods And Apparatus For Additive Manufacturing Based On Multi-Axisl Build Platforms
Methods And Apparatus For Additive Manufacturing Based On Multi-dimensional Build Platforms
Claim 1. A method of operating an N-2 axis additive manufacturing system, the method comprising:
installing a build platform having an N-2 axis build portion and a two-axis build portion;
an OEM controller configured to operate the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system, the OEM controller being operably coupled to the build platform; and
a two-axis controller operably coupled to the two-axis build portion, the two-axis controller configured to receive a signal and synchronize at least one of a rotational position or orientation about at least one axis of the two-axis build portion with a position of a tool or a position of the build platform in response to the signal.
1. A method comprising:
receiving data defining a build platform for fabricating a target object using an additive manufacturing system;
generating a search vector based at least in part on the data defining the build platform; determining whether an existing build platform model that satisfies the data defining the build platform is stored in a build platform model database by using the search vector to search the build platform model database for existing build platform model that satisfies the data defining the build platform; and
generating the build platform based on the data prior to fabricating the target object; wherein the search vector is a unified query; wherein the build platform comprises:
an interface section configured to couple with the additive manufacturing system;
a build volume section having at least one layer of a plurality of individually addressable elements; and
a base section coupled to the interface section between the interface section and the build volume section;
wherein the at least one layer has an outermost surface configured to receive a deposited material from the additive manufacturing system, the outermost surface being fabricated prior to the fabrication of the target object.
Claims 2-20 are also obvious to the claims 1-20 of the U.S. Patent No. 12,252,880 B2 (Appl. No. 17/574330 and Pub. No. 2022/0219401A1) in view of Appl. No 17/574326 (now under NOA) and 17/574331.
Although the conflicting claims are not identical, they are not patentably distinct from each other (as shown in the table for comparison) because they are conceptually or inherently similar to the limitations of the patent (as for example the limitation “installing a build platform having an N-2 axis build portion and a two-axis build portion - controller being operably coupled to the build platform” of the application is equivalent to the limitation “generating the build platform based on the data prior to fabricating the target object; - interface section configured to couple with the additive manufacturing system” of the patent) in scope and they use the similar limitations and produce the similar end result of operating additive manufacturing system.
It would be therefore obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention was made that to modify or to omit the additional elements of claim 1 of the patent to arrive at the claims 1 and 15 of the instant application, would perform the similar functions as before.
This is an obviousness-type double patenting rejection. A terminal disclaimer is required to overcome the obviousness-type double patenting rejection. See MPEP § 804 and 1490 (VI) D:
Specification Objection
The disclosure is objected to because of the following informalities:
The reference characters "210" and "208" have both been used to designate the element “build platform” in paragraphs [0069-70] and onwards. Appropriate correction is required.
Claim Objections
Claim 7 is objected to because of the following informalities:
Claim 7 recites the term “--- is configure to receive ----” in line 3 may be a typographical error. Appropriate correction is required.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 112
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112(b):
(b) CONCLUSION.—The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor regards as the invention.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), second paragraph:
The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the applicant regards as his invention.
Claim 8 is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 112, second paragraph, as being indefinite for failing to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter which applicant regards as the invention.
Claim 8 recites the limitation “may” renders the claim indefinite because the claim(s) include(s) elements not definite, thereby rendering the scope of the claim(s) unascertainable. See MPEP § 2173.05(d).
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102 of this title, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries set forth in Graham v. John Deere Co., 383 U.S. 1, 148 USPQ 459 (1966), that are applied for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
Claims 1-20 are rejected under AIA 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Myerberg, et al. USPGPub No. 20250050413 A1 in view of Gutierrez, et al. (USPGPub No. 20220072800 A1).
As to claims 1 and 15, Myerberg discloses A method of operating an N-2 axis additive manufacturing system (Myerberg [0004-10] “additive manufacturing techniques for fabricating support structures, breakaway layers, and the like suitable - build materials”, [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, controlling movement of plurality of nozzle and build plate, 3D printer, x-y axes control as operating N-2 axis), the method comprising:
installing a build platform having an N-2 axis build portion and a two-axis build portion; an OEM controller configured to operate the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system, the OEM controller being operably coupled to the build platform; (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - to fabrication - build materials - a fused filament fabrication system, a binder jetting system, a stereolithography system, a selective laser sintering system, or any other system - adapted to form a net shape object under computer control - wide range of compositions employed as the build material contemplated - robotics 308 position the nozzle 310 relative to the build plate 314 by controlling movement of one or more of the nozzle 310 and the build plate 314 - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - build plate 314 adapted for use with the additive manufacturing system 300” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, 3D printer, computer control, robotics, build plate, controlling movement of plurality of nozzle and build plate, z-axis control, x-y axes control, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, controlled linear movement and rotational motion along plurality of axes, and coupled to additive manufacturing system obviously provides build platform, N-2 axis build portion and a two-axis build portion, OEM controller configured to operate the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system, the OEM controller being operably coupled to the build platform) and
a two-axis controller operably coupled to the two-axis build portion, the two-axis controller configured to receive a signal and synchronize at least one of a rotational position or orientation about at least one axis of the two-axis build portion with a position of a tool or a position of the build platform in response to the signal (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, build plate, controlling movement of build plate, z-axis control, x-y axes control, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, controlled linear movement and rotational motion along plurality of axes, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides two-axis controller operably coupled to the two-axis build portion, the two-axis controller configured to receive a signal and synchronize at least one of a rotational position or orientation about at least one axis of the two-axis build portion with a position of a tool or a position of the build platform in response to the signal).
However, Gutierrez also discloses controller additive manufacturing system (Gutierrez [0009-78] “additive manufacturing apparatus 500, determines print instructions for generating the object from data representing the modified virtual object - control the additive manufacturing apparatus 500 to generate each of a plurality of layers of the object - object generation parameters associated with object model sub-volumes (voxels or pixels) - generates the object in a plurality of layers - respective slices of an object model - fabrication chamber, a print bed, printhead(s) for distributing print agents, a build material distribution system for providing layers of build material, energy sources” [abstract] see Fig. 1-5).
Myerberg and Gutierrez are analogous arts from the same field of endeavor and contain overlapping structural and functional similarities and both contain additive manufacturing. Therefore, at the time the invention was made, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to modify and combine the functionalities in combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez.
As to claim 2, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 1, wherein the signal is generated by at least one sensor configured to measure a position of a tool in the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, build plate, controlling movement of build plate, z-axis control, x-y axes control, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, controlled linear movement and rotational motion along plurality of axes, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides signal is generated by plurality of sensor configured to measure a position of a tool in the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system).
As to claim 3, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 1, wherein the signal is transmitted by the OEM controller (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides signal is transmitted by the OEM controller).
As to claims 4 and 18, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 1, wherein the synchronizing further includes: generating a probability matrix of next-state possible machine control codes based at least in part on the signal; selecting a first next-state machine control code based at least in part on the probability matrix; and selecting the next-state two-axis machine control code based at least in part on the first next-state machine control code and the two-axis machine control code (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides generating a probability matrix of next-state possible machine control codes based at least in part on the signal; selecting a first next-state machine control code based at least in part on the probability matrix; and selecting the next-state two-axis machine control code based at least in part on the first next-state machine control code and the two-axis machine control code).
As to claim 5, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 4, wherein generating of the probability matrix is performed by a Hidden Markov Model engine or a Neural Network engine (Gutierrez [0009-78] “additive manufacturing apparatus 500, determines print instructions for generating the object from data representing the modified virtual object - control the additive manufacturing apparatus 500 to generate each of a plurality of layers of the object - object generation parameters associated with object model sub-volumes (voxels or pixels) - generates the object in a plurality of layers - respective slices of an object model - modelled by generating objects having different solid proportions (e.g. different ratios), and determining a relationship - using machine learning techniques - determined using curve fitting, machine learning and/or artificial intelligence techniques - carrying out a data fitting” [abstract] see Fig. 1-5, generating object, generate plurality of layers of object, object generation parameters, object model sub-volumes (voxels or pixels), generates object in plurality of layers, slices of object model, modelled by generating objects, different solid proportions, different ratios, using machine learning techniques, machine learning, artificial intelligence techniques obvious provides probability matrix is performed by a Hidden Markov Model engine or a Neural Network engine).
As to claim 6, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 5, wherein the selecting of the next-state two-axis machine control code is performed by a motion classifier engine, the motion classifier engine combining multiple machine learning engines to choose the next-state two-axis machine control code (Gutierrez [0009-78] “additive manufacturing apparatus 500, determines print instructions for generating the object from data representing the modified virtual object - control the additive manufacturing apparatus 500 to generate each of a plurality of layers of the object - object generation parameters associated with object model sub-volumes (voxels or pixels) - generates the object in a plurality of layers - respective slices of an object model - modelled by generating objects having different solid proportions (e.g. different ratios), and determining a relationship - using machine learning techniques - determined using curve fitting, machine learning and/or artificial intelligence techniques - carrying out a data fitting” [abstract] see Fig. 1-5, generating object, generate plurality of layers of object, object generation parameters, object model sub-volumes (voxels or pixels), generates object in plurality of layers, slices of object model, modelled by generating objects, different solid proportions, different ratios, using machine learning techniques, machine learning, artificial intelligence techniques obvious provides selecting of the next-state two-axis machine control code is performed by a motion classifier engine, the motion classifier engine combining multiple machine learning engines to choose the next-state two-axis machine control code).
As to claim 7, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 4, wherein: the signal includes a plurality of signals; and the two-axis controller is configure to receive the plurality of signals prior to generating the probability matrix, the probability matrix being based at least in part on the plurality of signals (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, controlling movement of build plate, z-axis control, x-y axes control, controlled linear movement and rotational motion along plurality of axes, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides plurality of signals; and the two-axis controller is configure to receive the plurality of signals prior to generating the probability matrix, the probability matrix being based at least in part on the plurality of signals).
As to claim 8, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 1, wherein the signal may include meta data (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides signal include meta data).
As to claim 9, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 8, wherein the meta data includes an index or look-up table that provides a correspondence between N-2 machine control code and the two-axis machine control code (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, sequence to produce final object, adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system, obviously provides meta data includes an index or look-up table that provides a correspondence between N-2 machine control code and the two-axis machine control code).
As to claim 10, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 8, wherein the meta data includes command sequence for controlling functional characteristics of the N-2 axis additive manufacturing system (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, sequence to produce final object, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides).
As to claim 11, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 10, wherein the functional characteristics include one or more of changing a temperature, material feed rate, and deposition control (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, control components associated with temperature sensors coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides plurality of changing temperature, material feed rate, and deposition control).
As to claim 12, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 10, wherein one of the two-axis controller and the OEM controller is configure to transmit the meta data to an internal or external system (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, operating web server or hosting remote users, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides two-axis controller and the OEM controller is configure to transmit the meta data to an internal or external system).
As to claim 13, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 8, wherein the meta data includes a velocity or acceleration value (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, controlled linear movement and rotational motion along axes, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, plurality of sensors, sensor data, transceivng plurality of signals, adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides meta data includes a velocity or acceleration value).
As to claims 14 and 20, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 1, wherein: the OEM controller is further configured to control or more of a position of the tool or the build platform based on a N-2 axis machine control code; and the synchronization of the two-axis build platform causes, during operation, a fabrication of a target object through a superposition of the two-axis machine control code and the N-2 axis machine control code (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, controlled linear and rotational movement along one or more axes, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides control or more of a position of the tool or the build platform based on a N-2 axis machine control code; and the synchronization of the two-axis build platform causes, during operation, a fabrication of a target object through a superposition of the two-axis machine control code and the N-2 axis machine control code).
As to claim 16, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 15, wherein the supplemental-axis controller is further configured to synchronize a rotational position about a first axis of the supplemental-axis build portion and a first pitch angle about a second axis of the supplemental-axis build portion with the position of the tool or the position of the build platform in response to the signal (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, controlled linear and rotational movement along plurality of axes, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides synchronize a rotational position about a first axis of the supplemental-axis build portion and a first pitch angle about a second axis of the supplemental-axis build portion with the position of the tool or the position of the build platform in response to the signal).
As to claim 17, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 16, wherein the supplemental-axis controller is further configured to synchronize a second pitch angle about a third axis of the supplemental-axis build portion with the position of the tool or the position of the build platform in response to the signal (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, controlled linear and rotational movement along plurality of axes, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides synchronize a second pitch angle about a third axis of the supplemental-axis build portion with the position of the tool or the position of the build platform in response to the signal).
As to claim 19, the combination of Myerberg and Gutierrez disclose all the limitations of the base claims as outlined above.
The combination further discloses The method of claim 18, wherein the real-time processor is further configured to determine a next-state function that comprises meta data and transmitting a meta data signal (Myerberg [0033-165] “three-dimensional printer - moving the nozzle 310 up and down for z-axis control, and moving the build plate 314 within the x-y plane to provide x-axis and y-axis control - translate the build plate 314 along one or more axes, and/or may rotate the build plate 314 - controlled linear movement along one or more axes, and/or controlled rotational motion about one or more axes - control system 318 include a controller - computer executable code to control operation of the printer - nozzle 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, the various temperature and pressure control systems, and any other components - computerized model - object 312 - inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like - converting three-dimensional models 322 into tool instructions, and operating a web server or otherwise hosting remote users - inputs and outputs, digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital converters - controlling and/or monitoring a fabrication process executing on the printer - control system 318 coupled in a communicating relationship with a supply of the build material 302, the drive system 304, the heating system 306, the nozzles 310, the build plate 314, the robotics 308, and any other instrumentation or control components associated with the build process such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, oxygen sensors, vacuum pumps, and so forth - dynamically monitor deposited layers and determine, on a layer-by-layer basis - for successful completion of the object 312” [0004-10] [abstract] see Fig. 1-18, computer control, robotics, controller, processor, computer executable code to control operation, layer-by-layer fabrication, converted three-dimensional models, translate build plate along plurality of axes, rotate build plate, transceivng plurality of control signals, plurality of sensor, controlled linear and rotational movement along plurality of axes, coupled and adaptive to operate additive manufacturing system obviously provides real-time processor is further configured to determine a next-state function that comprises meta data and transmitting a meta data signal).
Citation of Pertinent Prior Art
It is noted that any citations to specific, pages, columns, lines, or figures in the prior art references and any interpretation of the reference should not be considered to be limiting in any way. A reference is relevant for all it contains and may be relied upon for all that it would have reasonably suggested to one having ordinary skill in the art. See MPEP 2141.02 VI. PRIOR ART MUST BE CONSIDERED IN ITS ENTIRETY, i.e., as a whole and 2123.
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure. The prior art made of record:
Yun, et al. USPGPub No. 2021/0362225 A1 discloses a hybrid 5-axis manufacturing of three-dimensional objects using a variety of material deposition and removal tools to operate in three dimensions and along two rotary axes and for 6-axis or multiple-axis platforms.
Riemann, USPGPub No. 2019/0047048 A1 discloses an additive manufacturing systems for creating multi-material and gradient-material structures and coatings using a laser metal deposition system.
Esbroeck, et al. USPGPub No. 2020/0122388 A1 discloses a method for decentralization of automated additive manufacturing with integrated and automated post-processing facilitation.
Gibsin, USPGPub No. 2020/0101534 A1 discloses an additive manufacturing assemblies to fabricate object and a base plate providing support to the object during the manufacturing process and the geometry of base plate is on optimized space and material constraints, preserving fidelity of finish object.
Albert, et al. USPGPub No. 2023/0056383 A1 discloses a method for producing a support structure in additive manufacturing of a geometry of an object defining a pattern of layers of a raw material for the support structure.
Mizukami, eta. USPGPub No. 2019/0255772 A1 discloses a three-dimensional manufacturing method to form object includes disposing plurality of forming material on forming table to form a plurality of structures supported by plurality of structures in a state separated from the forming table.
Clemente, et al. USPGPub No. 2022/0143926 A1 discloses an additive manufacturing system having a sensor module including a distance sensor to provide an indication of a position of a top surface of a volume of build material.
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/Md Azad/
Primary Examiner, Art Unit 2119