Three-dimensional objects coating techniques

Because of their frequently complicated shapes, three-dimensional (3D) objects require different coating techniques, such as spray, dip, and flow and spin coating. The lamps in curing units for 3D objects are stationary and the parts pass in front of them. They usually rotate two to three times as they pass through the irradiation zone. The irradiation zone must have a shield to eliminate direct and first scattered light. Because of the complexity of coated parts and high demands on quality, UV lamps are frequently mounted on robotics (shown previously in Figure 7.1). 

Three-dimensional printing or additive manufacturing (AM) techniques generally focus on the production of stand-alone, individual objects often for niche markets such as prostheses for medical applications. Recently, Deleersnyder (2013) started to use this technique for textile coating and even the production of accessories for apparel (see Figure 2.1) and other textiles. 

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