Abstract: Systems and methods for printing a three-dimensional object include a 3D printing device and a plasma applicator. In some embodiments the plasma applicator is rotatably connected to the 3D printing device and may apply plasma to a molten layer of 3D printing material immediately after the material is laid, or to a solidified layer immediately before the next layer is laid. In some embodiments a second plasma applicator is included for application of plasma both before and after each layer. In some embodiments plasma is applied to the final layer of a finished 3D printed object.

Abstract: A plasma jet device, comprising a dielectric container comprising a gas inlet and a plasma jet outlet, and an electrode. The electrode, which is completely covered by dielectric material, is inserted into the dielectric container and connected to the power supply. The dielectric material is in the form of a hollow tube with one end closed and another end opened. The power supply is connected to the electrode from the open end of the dielectric material. The dielectric material can also be a coated dielectric layer, which covers the electrode completely except one end for connecting to the power supply. A grounding electrode can be added downstream, outside the dielectric container or the nozzle. There also can be multiple electrodes inside the dielectric container arranged in a row or multiple rows, or in the shape of a circle or disk.

Abstract: A manufacturing process, such as that used for ultrasonic welding, employs a self-leveling fixture (20) including a base (12) and an operation stage (14) that are separated by leveling devices (16) and 18). The leveling devices include a centrally located spherical plane bearing (16) and one or more spring members (18) disposed about the periphery of the operation stage. In this way, the operation stage can react in response to pressure applied thereto complying to the applied pressure, thus providing a realistic self-leveling feature. After the pressure is removed, the return to a normal position via the spring action of spring (18).