Abstract: A collection of camera-based monitoring sub-systems can be added to a composite-based additive manufacturing (CBAM) system to autonomously inspect the integrity of each layer and remediate issues in real time. Cameras are located at various stations throughout the process. Resulting images are analyzed to see if processed pages are within tolerance based on comparison with models. Cameras can be placed at the print platen, on a rear conveyor that conveys powdered pages to the stacker and in the stacker itself to make sure pages are stacked and aligned properly. The present invention provides quality assurance and quality control to validate the build process at the layer level. This reduces the amount of post-build labor to perform, and since it shows data internal to the part, it dramatically reduces the amount of destructive testing required.

Abstract: A collection of camera-based monitoring sub-systems can be added to a composite-based additive manufacturing (CBAM) system to autonomously inspect the integrity of each layer and remediate issues in real time. Cameras are located at various stations throughout the process. Resulting images are analyzed to see if processed pages are within tolerance based on comparison with models. Cameras can be placed at the print platen, on a rear conveyor that conveys powdered pages to the stacker and in the stacker itself to make sure pages are stacked and aligned properly. The present invention provides quality assurance and quality control to validate the build process at the layer level. This reduces the amount of post-build labor to perform, and since it shows data internal to the part, it dramatically reduces the amount of destructive testing required.

Abstract: Apparatuses for measuring temperature and emissivity, and methods of measuring temperature and emissivity are disclosed wherein the apparatus may include a processor adapted to execute an algorithm to adjust emissivity values until a desired temperature calculation is achieved. Accordingly, tedious manual adjustment steps by an operator are unnecessary.