application of textured or patterned surfaces on a prototype

摘要

Rapid prototyping technologies are being used to save time and money. One such method of producing a rapid phototype is that known as stereolithography. This method creates a tangible 3-D object from a CAD drawing by directing ultraviolet laser radiation onto a vat of polymer resin. The invention disclosed pertains to application of a texture or pattern to a prototype part produced from such method above. The texture or pattern is applied to the surface of the prototype part. The method involves using a photo-sensitive resist that is sprayed onto the surface of the item until a predetermined thickness is achieved. Portions of the surface are pre-selected to provide a texture or pattern. Other portions of the surface are masked or otherwise protected from exposure to a radiation source. After exposure to a light source, the unhardened photo resist is removed, leaving the exposed photo resist on the surface forming the pre-selected pattern or texture.