Sigma Labs files sensor patent

Santa Fe, N.M. – Sigma Labs Inc. has filed a patent application protecting a unique sensor invention that will enhance the ability to improve the quality of additive manufacturing processes, especially for critical metal parts.

 

Mark Cola, CEO and president of Sigma Labs, says, "Currently, the additive manufacturing process involves a lot of trial and error in order to get the right operating parameters. Companies use their best judgment and past experience, but new materials, new shapes, and new parts offer production challenges and the new Sigma Labs sensor technology could help reduce development time. Additive manufacturing typically involves lasers scanning over a layer of powder, melting it, and building up the part layer by layer."

 

Cola elaborates, "To know precisely when the laser is putting in just the right amount of energy into the powder layer – not too much and not too little – so that the layer is completely melted without overheating it is very important. Our new sensor and data analysis invention helps to accomplish just that – determine optimal coupling between the laser and the powders. As we proceed with development, we expect to offer this sensor to current and future customers of our PrintRite3D systems."

 

Sigma Labs Inc., through its wholly-owned subsidiary, B6 Sigma Inc., develops and engineers advanced, real-time, non-destructive quality inspection systems for commercial firms worldwide seeking productive solutions for 3D metal printing and other advanced manufacturing technologies.