Abstract: The present aspects include a system for de-powdering a three-dimensionally (3D) printed structure. The structure comprising a first component holder configured to removably hold the 3D printed structure at an initial orientation with respect to at least one opening to a hollow portion within the 3D printed structure; a fluid system configured control a fluid to at least apply the fluid to the hollow portion or remove the fluid from the hollow portion to remove a powder from the hollow portion; and a movement system configured to move at least the 3D printed structure or the fluid system according to a movement procedure based on a configuration of the hollow portion.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for removing and/or destroying support structures associated with objects fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques are presented herein. Structural supports may be used during an additive manufacturing process to prevent deformation of a build piece (e.g., three dimensional (3D) printed structure). In some examples, a build piece may be manufactured such that the structural supports are internal to the completed build piece. However, removing the structural supports may reduce the weight of the build piece and reduce the amount of debris trapped within the build piece. Thus, certain aspects of the disclosure are directed to a hose including a bendable and elongated tube member as well as a fracturing member configured to fracture an internal support structure within an additively manufactured part.

Abstract: Methods for removing support structures in additively manufactured parts are disclosed. A method in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure comprises inserting a demolition object in a first state into a hollow portion of a 3-D printed part, breaking a support structure within the hollow portion by contact with the demolition object, changing the demolition object into a second state while the demolition object is within the hollow portion of the 3-D printed part, and removing the demolition object from the hollow portion of the 3-D printed part.

Abstract: Ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) of surface members for a box-like part such as a crash structure or load-bearing structure in a vehicle is disclosed. In one aspect of the disclosure, a method for building a box-like part includes 3-D printing separately, using UAM, the one or more flat surface members in a horizontal plane relative to a print substrate. The method further includes assembling together the surface members at or proximate respective edges thereof to form the box-like part. In some embodiments, protrusions and other features are added to the surface members. In embodiments involving crash structures, trenches are machined into the inner surfaces to enable tailored deformation of the crash structure during an impact event.