Method for partitioning a mesh structure in a conformal manner to a lattice

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for dividing a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of an object (4) into at least two virtual partial models (13a, 13b), the method comprising the following steps: creating a virtual dividing surface (28) for the overall model (5) of the object (4), the dividing surface having a three-dimensional shape conformal to a lattice; creating the overall model (5) of the object (4) using a grid structure (35) composed of a plurality of grids (34); and dividing the overall model (5) into two partial models (13a, 13b) along the dividing surface (28) conformal to the lattice, so that when dividing the overall model (5), a common support (39) of the grid structure (35) is divided by the dividing surface (28) conformal to the lattice, so that the corresponding grids (34a, 34b) remain closed, wherein each common support is both a component of at least one grid (34) of one partial model (13a) and a component of at least one adjacent grid (34) of another partial model (13b).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method, in particular a computer-implemented method, for dividing a virtual three-dimensional overall model of an object into at least two virtual partial models. Background Art

[0002] Devices and methods for producing three-dimensional objects are well known in the prior art. For example, WO 2006 / 122645 A discloses a device and method for producing three-dimensional objects by solidifying layers of powdered material. These layers are applied to the surface of the building area using a coating machine.

[0003] This method generally has the disadvantage that the build area is limited and, therefore, only objects of limited size can be produced. To avoid this disadvantage, it is known to divide a larger object into smaller partial objects, which are printed separately and then combined. The division can weaken the grid structure (lattice). This can have a negative impact on the mechanical properties of the object to be printed. In addition, inaccuracies can occur in the partial objects during the subsequent joining, making it impossible to combine them optimally. In addition, such combinations are usually time-consuming and / or costly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to eliminate the disadvantages known from the prior art.

[0005] The object of the invention is achieved by the features of the independent claim. Further advantageous embodiments are apparent from the dependent claims and the drawings.

[0006] A method, particularly a computer-implemented method, is proposed for splitting a virtual three-dimensional overall model of an object into at least two virtual partial models. In this method, a virtual three-dimensional splitting plane is created for the overall model of the object, the splitting plane having a three-dimensional shape that conforms to a grid. The term "conforms to a grid" should be understood as a shape that follows the geometry, morphology, outer surface, and / or contour of a cell. In this method, the overall model of the object is created using a grid structure composed of a plurality of cells. Preferably, the cells are replaced by the grid structure. The overall model is then split into two partial models along the splitting plane that conforms to the grid. This splitting is performed in such a way that the common support of the grid structure is split by the splitting plane that conforms to the grid, such that the corresponding cells remain intact and / or closed. The common support is each a component of at least one cell of one partial model and at least one adjacent cell of the other partial model. Consequently, the cells are not cut apart. Instead, all their supports remain intact. Consequently, each partial model has a closed grid structure. Advantageously, this achieves very high stability for both the partial models and the overall model. This conformal lattice-based segmentation allows for both partial and full models to be constructed very easily, as no additional material accumulation is required in the joint area between two partial models. Furthermore, the formation of mutually corresponding surfaces allows the partial models to be positioned and guided relative to one another with a precise fit.

[0007] Advantageously, the common support is divided in its respective longitudinal direction. This ensures that the grid is not cut open but instead remains complete and / or closed. However, a very high stability can advantageously be achieved.

[0008] It is also advantageous if the common support is divided so that parts of the individual common support extend without gaps and / or continuously between two nodes of the respective corresponding cells, while adjacent cells remain complete and / or closed.

[0009] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the common supports is divided such that the respective parts are symmetrical or asymmetrical to one another.

[0010] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, a virtual three-dimensional base body is advantageously prepared before the dividing planes are created. This base body defines the geometrical dimensions of the overall model to be created. Furthermore, it is advantageous to subsequently determine at least one sectioning plane, in particular a planar, curved, and / or angled sectioning plane, which divides the base body. Furthermore, it is advantageous to subsequently fill the volume of the base body with a plurality of complete cells. A cell essentially comprises a surface, an edge, and a center point.

[0011] Advantageously, the three-dimensional shape of the partitioning surface conforming to the grid is created by an algorithm and / or with the aid of the grid surfaces of at least some of the complete cells located in the region of the section plane. Thus, the shape of the partitioning surface substantially follows the surfaces of the cells adjacent to the section plane.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, in order to create a three-dimensional shape of the dividing surface that conforms to the lattice, at least the complete cells located in the region of the cutting plane are assigned to a respective one of the two sides of the cutting plane. Thus, advantageously, a corresponding group of cells is assigned to each of the two sides of the cutting plane, which group of cells has a three-dimensional, lattice-conformal interface in the region of the cutting plane.

[0013] Advantageously, the complete cells are respectively assigned to one of the two sides of the section plane via their center points. Therefore, the complete cells are preferably respectively assigned to the side of the section plane on which the center points of the cells are located.

[0014] It is particularly advantageous to create the shape of the dividing surface corresponding to and / or based on a three-dimensional lattice-conformal interface of one of the two cell groups, so that the dividing surface preferably has a shape corresponding to the lattice surface of the cell forming the interface.

[0015] When producing a lattice structure, it is advantageous, in particular for forming a surface lattice structure, to section the cells with the outer surface of the base body.

[0016] To create the grid structure of the overall model, it is advantageous to replace the cells with supports that extend along the edges of the cells. Here, the supports themselves represent objects with volume. These supports can now be segmented in a conformal manner to the grid, so that the corresponding grid remains complete and / or closed. Consequently, all supports of the grid continue to extend coherently and / or uninterruptedly between the nodes of the grid.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method comprises at least one of the following steps:

[0018] - comparing at least one external dimension of the virtual three-dimensional overall model of the object with at least one corresponding internal dimension of the restricted production area of ​​the additive manufacturing device in at least one spatial direction;

[0019] - when the outer dimensions of the overall model exceed the corresponding inner dimensions of the manufacturing area, splitting the overall model into at least two virtual three-dimensional partial models;

[0020] - configuring at least one connecting element, which movably connects at least two partial models to each other, so that the at least two partial models can be moved relative to each other from a manufacturing position, in which corresponding joining surfaces of the partial models are spaced apart from each other, to a joining position, in which corresponding joining surfaces of the partial models abut against each other; and / or

[0021] A virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model is created in the manufacturing position of the partial models. The manufacturing model is essentially an overall model that has been divided into at least two partial models and the partial models are connected to each other via at least one connecting element and are in the manufacturing position relative to each other.

[0022] Advantageously, at least one of the above-mentioned method steps is performed by a user using a computing unit, in particular using a computer program and / or artificial intelligence stored thereon, and / or by such a computing unit.

[0023] A computing unit is also proposed for segmenting a virtual three-dimensional overall model of an object into at least two virtual partial models, in particular using a computer program and / or artificial intelligence stored therein. The computing unit is designed to carry out at least some of the method steps according to the previously described method, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination.

[0024] A computer program and / or artificial intelligence is also proposed, which, when implemented by a computing unit, causes the computing unit to implement at least part of the method steps of the previously described method for splitting a virtual three-dimensional overall model of an object into at least two virtual partial models, wherein the mentioned features may exist individually or in any combination.

[0025] A computer-readable storage medium is also proposed having a virtual three-dimensional overall model of an object at least partially stored thereon, the overall model being divided into at least two virtual partial models, which are produced by the method, computing unit, computer program and / or artificial intelligence described previously, wherein the mentioned features may exist individually or in any combination.

[0026] A method for producing an object is proposed, wherein a virtual three-dimensional overall model of the object is produced according to the previously described method (the overall model is divided into at least two virtual partial models) and / or a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model is produced at the manufacturing location of the partial model, wherein the aforementioned features can be present individually or in any combination. Subsequently, manufacturing data for an additive manufacturing device is created based on the divided virtual three-dimensional overall model and / or the manufacturing model. Finally, the object is produced using the additive manufacturing device based on the manufacturing data. The additive manufacturing device is preferably a 3D printer.

[0027] Advantageously, the partial objects are manufactured according to the partial model, wherein at least one of the partial objects is produced using an additive manufacturing method, wherein at least two partial objects are exposed to a solvent atmosphere in a chamber so that the surfaces of the partial objects are smoothed, and the at least two partial objects are placed in the chamber so that they contact each other at at least one joining surface and thereby a material-fitting connection is produced between the at least two partial objects at the at least one joining surface by the solvent atmosphere.

[0028] An object is proposed, which is produced by a production method according to the above description, wherein the mentioned features can be present individually or in any combination.

[0029] A device having a computing unit for creating a virtual three-dimensional integral model of an object and / or having an additive manufacturing device for producing an object is also proposed. The computing unit is designed to carry out at least some of the method steps of the previously described method for creating a virtual three-dimensional integral model of an object, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to the above-described apparatus and method, the following methods and apparatus are proposed, which can be arbitrarily combined with the above-described apparatus and / or method. A method, in particular a computer-implemented method, is proposed for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object. A virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model is understood to be a model used for manufacturing and / or producing an object, in particular by a device having an additive manufacturing device.

[0031] In this method, at least one external dimension of a virtual three-dimensional overall model of the object is compared with at least one corresponding internal dimension of a restricted production area of ​​an additive manufacturing device in at least one spatial direction. The virtual three-dimensional overall model can be, for example, a CAD model. In this case, the overall model is a virtual image of the object to be manufactured. The overall model of the object can be manually created by a user and / or automatically determined by a computing unit.

[0032] Here, a production area is understood to be a region in which an object can subsequently be at least partially produced. The respective internal dimensions of the production area in each spatial direction limit the maximum producible external dimensions of the overall model in that spatial direction. Preferably, each external dimension of the virtual three-dimensional overall model of the object is compared with each corresponding internal dimension of the restricted production area of ​​the additive manufacturing device in the respective spatial direction (i.e., in the longitudinal, transverse, and height directions). This ensures that the object can be produced within the restricted production area.

[0033] If the outer dimensions of the overall model exceed the corresponding inner dimensions of the manufacturing region, the overall model is segmented into at least two virtual three-dimensional partial models. This segmentation can be performed according to the previously described method and / or apparatus, wherein the features can be present individually or in any combination. Next, at least one connecting element is configured to movably connect the at least two partial models to one another, such that the at least two partial models can be moved relative to one another from a manufacturing position in which corresponding joint surfaces of the partial models are spaced apart from one another to a joining position in which corresponding joint surfaces of the partial models abut one another.

[0034] Here, a manufacturing position is understood to mean a position in which at least two partial models, together with the connecting elements connecting them, can be placed in a manufacturing area and manufactured using a manufacturing device. A partial model is a virtual three-dimensional model of a portion of an object. A joining position, however, is understood to mean a position in which at least two partial models are brought into contact with one another via a joining surface, such that they together form at least one external dimension of the overall model. Here, a joining surface is a surface that creates a connection between the at least two partial models at the joining position.

[0035] A virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model is then created at the manufacturing location of the partial model. This virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of the partial model can then be used for subsequent additive manufacturing within the confined manufacturing area of ​​the additive manufacturing device. Advantageously, the manufacturing model of the object includes the overall model and the connecting element at the joint location.

[0036] This method has the advantage that the overall model can be manufactured within the restricted manufacturing area, even if at least one external dimension of the overall model exceeds the corresponding internal dimension of the restricted manufacturing area. The overall model is then too large for the manufacturing area in at least one spatial direction. A connecting element connects at least two partial models so that they can be printed independently of one another in the manufacturing position and moved to a joined position after manufacturing. This allows the manufacture of overall models or objects that exceed the restricted manufacturing area.

[0037] Furthermore, at least one connecting element ensures that the joint surfaces of the corresponding partial models bear against one another in the joint position. The corresponding partial models are manufactured together, in particular side by side and / or one above the other, in the manufacturing area. The partial models are connected to one another by means of at least one connecting element, so that the partial models can be manufactured in a corresponding or dimensionally stable manner even when manufacturing parameters vary (e.g., when temperature fluctuates).

[0038] Advantageously, the connecting element is designed so that it connects at least two partial models to each other in a rotationally movable and / or translationally movable manner, in particular in a flip-over and / or displaceable manner relative to each other, wherein the connecting element is preferably designed as a connecting hinge, in particular a rotating hinge and / or a sliding hinge. Here, the at least two partial models can be flipped and / or displaced from a manufacturing position to a joined position and / or vice versa. Thus, the connecting hinge enables a simple and functional connection between the at least two partial models. Here, the connecting element can be designed as a hinge, for example, a detachable and / or inseparable hinge. If the hinge is designed to be detachable, each of the partial models has a hinge section that connects the partial models to each other detachably. If the hinge is designed to be inseparable, the hinge can be arranged as a thin film hinge, for example, as a thin layer between the at least two partial models. If the connecting element is manufactured together with the partial models, it can be made of the same material as the partial models or a different material.

[0039] Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide at least one locking element, by means of which two corresponding partial models can be locked relative to one another in their joined position. Thus, the at least one locking element prevents the at least two corresponding partial models from being moved back from the joined position to the production position. Furthermore, the locking element and the associated holding of the partial models in the joined position of the at least two corresponding partial models facilitate the assembly of the parts of the object into the object after production.

[0040] It is also advantageous to compare the outer dimensions of at least one of the partial models and / or the manufacturing model located at the manufacturing location with at least one corresponding inner dimension of the restricted manufacturing area in at least one spatial direction. This ensures that the at least one partial model and / or the manufacturing model located at the manufacturing location is, in particular, arranged exclusively within the restricted manufacturing area and is therefore manufacturable.

[0041] If the external dimensions of the compared partial models and / or manufacturing models exceed the corresponding internal dimensions of the manufacturing area, at least one partial model is advantageously divided into at least two sub-partial models. At least one connecting element and / or locking element can then be constructed between the at least two sub-partial models, and / or a virtual manufacturing model can be created at the manufacturing location of the partial models and sub-partial models. Thus, if the external dimensions are exceeded, at least one of the partial models can be further divided by at least one corresponding internal dimension of the restricted manufacturing area. At least one connecting element arranged on the sub-partial models ensures that the at least two sub-partial models can be moved from the manufacturing position to the joined position and / or vice versa.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment, the overall model, the partial model, and / or the sub-partial model are segmented so that their outer dimensions do not exceed the corresponding inner dimensions of the manufacturing area. This ensures that the manufacturing model can be manufactured within the restricted manufacturing area. Furthermore, if the outer dimensions of the overall model, the partial model, and / or the sub-partial model do not exceed the corresponding inner dimensions of the manufacturing area, unnecessary further segmentation of the overall model, the partial model, and / or the sub-partial model can be avoided.

[0043] Furthermore, it is advantageous to detect at least one external dimension of the virtual three-dimensional overall model, at least one partial model, and / or the manufacturing model of the object in at least one spatial direction. Furthermore, it is advantageous to input and / or determine at least one internal dimension of the restricted manufacturing area of ​​the additive manufacturing device in at least one spatial direction. At least one of the aforementioned steps of detecting the external dimension, inputting, and / or determining the internal dimension can be performed manually by a user and / or automatically determined by a computing unit. This ensures that at least one external and / or internal dimension is available for carrying out the method.

[0044] Furthermore, it is advantageous to iteratively carry out at least some of the method steps, in particular the comparison and segmentation, until the manufacturing model is completely integrated into the manufacturing area. This ensures that, after the iterative method, the manufacturing model can be manufactured using the manufacturing device. This iterative method is a very simple alternative for designing the manufacturing model so that it can be manufactured.

[0045] Advantageously, after comparing at least one external dimension with at least one internal dimension and / or before segmenting into at least two partial models and / or sub-partial models, at least two of the external dimensions of the overall model and / or partial model are swapped with at least two of the internal dimensions of the manufacturing region. By swapping at least two of the external dimensions with at least two of the internal dimensions, the overall model and / or partial model is rotated within the manufacturing region. If at least one other external dimension of the overall model exceeds the corresponding other internal dimension of the manufacturing region in one of the spatial directions, the swapping can eliminate at least one method step, in particular the comparison and segmentation. Additionally or alternatively, this swapping can be performed iteratively, in particular together with the comparison and / or segmentation, until the manufacturing model fully matches the manufacturing region.

[0046] Furthermore, it is advantageous to compare at least one external dimension of the manufacturing model resulting from the segmentation with the internal dimensions of the manufacturing region after comparing at least one external dimension with at least one internal dimension and before segmenting into at least two partial models and / or sub-partial models. During segmentation and subsequent formation of the connecting element, at least one of the external dimensions is reduced in one spatial direction, thereby increasing another external dimension in another spatial direction. Thus, by comparing the external dimensions of the manufacturing model resulting from this with the internal dimensions of the manufacturing region, it is possible to assess before segmentation whether all external dimensions match the internal dimensions and, therefore, whether the manufacturing model is producible in the manufacturing device. This avoids unnecessary method steps.

[0047] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the method steps is performed by a user using a computing unit, in particular using a computer program and / or artificial intelligence stored thereon, and / or by such a computing unit. In addition to or as an alternative to the above-described iterative process, the manufacturing model structure can be designed to be manufacturable quickly and / or with as few method steps as possible using artificial intelligence. The artificial intelligence can intervene in the method flow so that as few method steps as possible are performed and / or these method steps are performed with minimal effort. Furthermore, unnecessary segmentation of the overall model, partial models, and / or sub-partial models can be avoided.

[0048] A computing unit is also proposed for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object, in particular using a computer program and / or artificial intelligence stored thereon. The computing unit is designed to implement at least some of the steps of the previously described method for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination. The computing unit may have an input interface for detecting, inputting, and / or determining at least one external and / or internal dimension. Data, in particular geometric data of an object and / or a manufacturing device, can then be input into the computing unit by an external input device and / or by a user. Additionally or alternatively, the computing unit may have an output interface for outputting the manufacturing data to a manufacturing device and / or a computer-readable storage medium.

[0049] A computer program and / or artificial intelligence is also proposed, which, when implemented by a computing unit, causes the computing unit to implement at least part of the method steps of the previously described method for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object, wherein the mentioned features may exist individually or in any combination.

[0050] Furthermore, a computer-readable storage medium, in particular a data storage device, is provided, having a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model stored thereon. The manufacturing model is generated by the method, computing unit, computer program, and / or artificial intelligence described above, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination. A computer-readable storage medium is understood herein to mean a medium that can store the manufacturing model and / or can be read by the device described below. The computer-readable storage medium may, for example, be a flash memory, a hard drive, a cloud, and / or an optical storage device.

[0051] A production method for producing an object is also proposed, in which a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of the object is created according to the method described above, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination.

[0052] Manufacturing data for an additive manufacturing device, in particular a 3D printing device, is then created based on the virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model. The manufacturing data is formed by the manufacturing model and may contain additional information for manufacturing. Next, an object is manufactured in a restricted manufacturing area of ​​the additive manufacturing device based on the manufacturing data, wherein the object is manufactured in multiple parts in the form of multiple parts that are movably connected to each other by at least one connecting element, the multiple parts being in a manufacturing position in which the corresponding joint surfaces of the multiple parts are spaced apart from each other. The interconnected parts of the object reproduce the virtual three-dimensional partial model in a finished form. At least two parts of the object are connected to each other in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner by means of a connecting element, so that they can move relative to each other. The connecting element is advantageously configured as a connecting hinge.

[0053] Advantageously, the parts of the object are moved from a production position into a joining position in which corresponding joining surfaces of the parts bear against one another.

[0054] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the parts of the object are locked in the joined position, in particular by at least one locking element co-produced using the additive manufacturing device. Thus, the locking element prevents the at least two parts of the object from being moved from the joined position back into the production position. The at least one locking element can be, for example, a clamp and / or a latching element.

[0055] Furthermore, the combination of parts of an object into an object can be facilitated after production by the locking element and the associated holding of the partial models in the joined position of at least two corresponding partial models.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the object is exposed to a solvent atmosphere at the joining point, so that the surface of the object is smoothed and / or at least two parts of the object are materially bonded to one another in the region of their mutually abutting joining surfaces.

[0057] Furthermore, it is advantageous to at least partially remove the connecting and / or locking elements, in particular after the parts of the object have been connected to one another, so that the object can be arranged in its originally intended shape, which was assumed in the overall model.

[0058] It is also advantageous if the object is produced using a powder-based 3D printing method. Powder-based 3D printing methods generally have a limited production area. Additionally or alternatively, the range of action of the powder coating unit and / or irradiation unit can also be limited to this production area. Therefore, this method can also be used to easily produce large objects using this printing method. With this powder-based 3D printing method, powder materials made of plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, and / or composite materials can be used. If plastic is used as the powder material, the 3D printing method is referred to as SLS. It is advantageous if the object is produced from an elastomer, in particular TPU.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one of the parts is made of a grid structure. If at least one of the parts of the object has grid bars of a grid structure on at least one of the joint surfaces, the connecting elements and / or locking elements can be arranged on the grid bars. Similarly, the parts of the object can be joined at their joint surfaces in the region of the grid bars.

[0060] Furthermore, an object, in particular a component, is proposed, which is produced by a production method according to the above description, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any desired combination.

[0061] Furthermore, a device is proposed. The device advantageously includes a computing unit for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object. Additionally or alternatively, the device includes an additive manufacturing device for producing the object. Additionally or alternatively, the device includes a chamber for smoothing the surface of the object and / or for bonding two parts of the object using a solvent atmosphere.

[0062] The computing unit is preferably designed to carry out at least some of the method steps of the previously described method for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination. Additionally or alternatively, the additive manufacturing device and / or the chamber is designed to carry out at least some of the method steps of the previously described production method for producing an object, wherein the aforementioned features may be present individually or in any combination.

[0063] In addition to the above-mentioned method and / or device or alternatively with respect to it, it is advantageous that in the method for making a composite object by at least two partial objects made by an additive manufacturing method, the at least two partial objects are exposed to a solvent atmosphere in a chamber so that the surface of the partial objects becomes smooth. Advantageously, the at least two partial objects are placed in the chamber so that they contact at least one joint surface and thus produce a material-matched connection between the at least two partial objects by the solvent atmosphere on at least one joint surface. According to the previous description, the at least two partial objects can be made based on an overall model of the object, and the overall model is divided into at least two virtual partial models in a manner conformal to the lattice. Additionally or alternatively, the at least two partial objects can be made based on a manufacturing model of the manufacturing position according to the aforementioned description. The above-mentioned features can exist individually or in any combination.

[0064] The solvent atmosphere at least partially dissolves chemical bonds on the surface of the partial objects. This allows molecules on the surface to be rearranged or removed, which, on the one hand, reduces surface roughness. On the other hand, this creates a material-to-material connection between the partial objects at the joining surface. This eliminates the need for a separate step of combining the partial objects. In this way, a partial object produced using an additive manufacturing method can be connected, for example, to at least one partial object produced using an injection molding method and / or to at least one other partial object produced using an additive manufacturing method.

[0065] It is conceivable to first place the part of the object in a chamber and then introduce a solvent atmosphere into the chamber. Alternatively, it is conceivable to introduce the part of the object into a chamber provided with a solvent atmosphere. The solvent atmosphere is, for example, an aerosol, in particular a mist, i.e., a mixture of atomized solvent and, for example, air. Alternatively, it is conceivable to use the solvent vapor in its pure form or mixed with, for example, air as a gas mixture.

[0066] For example, the chamber can be heated to a temperature of 25° C. to 100° C. to accelerate the reaction. However, the method is preferably carried out at room temperature. The solvent atmosphere can be produced, for example, by spraying the solvent or by atomizing the solvent, for example with the aid of an ultrasonic atomizer. Targeted evaporation of the solvent is also conceivable.

[0067] Due to the health hazards and potential explosion hazard, the chamber is preferably sealed hermetically while the solvent atmosphere is present. It is conceivable that at the end of the method, the solvent atmosphere is evacuated before the chamber is opened.

[0068] Advantageously, at least two partial objects are joined together in a form-fitting manner at at least one joint surface. This improves the subsequent joining of the at least two partial objects. Furthermore, this makes it easier to produce a uniform combined object. The form-fitting connection can be achieved, for example, by forming the joint surfaces between the partial objects by the boundary surfaces of the cells of the grid structure of the partial objects.

[0069] If the sub-objects each have a grid structure, the sub-objects may contact one another, for example, along the grid bars of the grid structure. The grid bars may, for example, form the edges of the cells of the grid structure. The form-fitting connection described here may be associated with the parallel orientation of the grid bars. In this case, the plurality of joint surfaces may consist of a plurality of pairs of parallel-oriented grid bars.

[0070] It is particularly advantageous to produce at least one of the partial objects using a powder-based 3D printing method. Compared to other 3D printing methods, this method allows the partial object to be printed without additional support structures. This eliminates the need for subsequent removal of support structures.

[0071] In powder-based 3D printing methods, the object to be printed is coated with powder layer by layer. This typically begins with the bottom layer, where, for example, an adhesive applied to the powder layer specifically hardens and bonds the powder. Next, the next powder layer is applied and likewise treated with an adhesive. Hardening and bonding the powder by heating at specific locations is also conceivable.

[0072] Here, the printed object is constantly surrounded by a loose powder environment that protects and supports it. This method typically results in a rough surface, but this surface is smoothed within the solvent atmosphere. Of course, both or both of the at least two component objects can be produced using a powder-based 3D printing method.

[0073] It is also advantageous that at least one of the two partial objects is manufactured using a grid structure. The grid structure can be used to fill a large volume with a small amount of material. The elasticity of the partial object can also be accurately controlled by the grid structure. This is particularly advantageous when filling. Ideally, the joint surface of the partial object in the composite object can no longer be identified at least based on the uneven elasticity. Two or all of the at least two partial objects can be manufactured using a grid structure. Here, the grid structure of the partial object is preferably consistent.

[0074] Advantageously, at least two partial objects are placed in a solvent atmosphere so that they contact each other on a plurality of joining surfaces, wherein the plurality of joining surfaces correspond to a plurality of boundary surfaces of the cells of the structure of the partial objects. This ensures that the structures of the partial objects complement each other to form a structure that is as uniform as possible for the combined object. This improves the uniformity associated with the elasticity of the object, in particular. The structure described can be any structure consisting of a plurality of identical cells (i.e., the smallest component that fills the space). The structure is in particular a grid structure. The boundary surfaces separate the individual cells from each other. They do not have to be filled with material compulsorily. For example, interconnected grid bars can also form the edges of the boundary surfaces.

[0075] Preferably, this aspect is already taken into account during the design or when the object is divided into parts before the parts are produced. For example, a grid structure of the object is divided into parts along the boundary surfaces of the cells of the structure (so-called "grid-conformal cutting").

[0076] It is also advantageous if the partial objects are combined so as to form a uniform grid structure of the combined objects. As already described, this can improve the uniformity, in particular in relation to the elasticity of the objects.

[0077] In particular, if the object is a filler or a part of a filler with which the user later comes into direct contact, inhomogeneities in elasticity are uncomfortable for the user and are therefore disadvantageous for the economic viability of the object. This should be avoided.

[0078] Advantageously, at least two partial objects are produced using at least one connecting element, in particular a connecting hinge. Additionally or alternatively, it is advantageous if at least two partial objects are folded together by means of the connecting element so that the two partial objects rest against each other with their corresponding joining surfaces. This ensures that the partial objects are seamlessly combined along at least one joining surface. The freedom of movement of the partial objects relative to one another can be limited, in particular, by one or more hinges, so that the partial objects can only be combined into an object in one way. In particular, it is conceivable to "fold" the partial objects into an object. In this case, one or more connecting hinges can also be produced using an additive manufacturing method. If necessary, one or more hinges can be removed again after the partial objects have been connected to form an object.

[0079] In the case of particularly wide objects that exceed the width of the printing device, it is conceivable to divide the object into at least two superimposed printable partial objects, which are optionally connected to one or more connecting hinges as described. In particular, two connecting hinges can be provided.

[0080] It is also advantageous if at least two of the partial bodies are made of a thermoplastic, in particular polyamide 12 (PA12), and / or an elastomer, in particular TPU. This facilitates the production of the partial bodies. Furthermore, after the partial bodies are combined, an elastically deformable but dimensionally stable body is formed, which can be used, in particular, as a filler.

[0081] Examples of elastomers are sulfides of natural rubber or silicone rubber. The abbreviation TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane. Polyurethane is a plastic or synthetic resin formed by the polyaddition reaction of dienes or polyols with polyisocyanates. Firstly, fillers or materials used for thermal insulation can be advantageously made from foamed TPU. The thermoplastic properties are particularly advantageous when manufacturing products from the material.

[0082] Particularly advantageously, the solvent atmosphere contains chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, dimethyl sulfoxide, hexafluoroisopropanol, pyridine, and / or benzyl alcohol. These solvents are particularly capable of dissolving TPU and are therefore suitable for smoothing the surfaces of parts and establishing material-bonded connections between parts in the atmosphere. Mixtures of different solvents can be used in the solvent atmosphere. As already described, aerosols and / or vapors can be produced from these solvents to create the solvent atmosphere.

[0083] A composite object is formed by combining at least two partial objects, at least one of which is produced using an additive manufacturing method. This object is characterized by being produced according to the method described above. As already mentioned, this object has the advantage that the partial objects are already combined during the surface smoothing of the partial objects, thereby eliminating the additional step of combining them during object production. Furthermore, the object can have dimensions that exceed the printing range of a printing device used for additive manufacturing. It is also conceivable that the object can be composed of multiple partial objects.

[0084] The object, for example, has a lattice structure, wherein the lattice structure is preferably uniform over the entire extent of the object. For example, the pattern of the lattice structure repeats at regular intervals. The object is made, for example, of an elastomer, in particular TPU. The object is in particular configured as a filler or part of a filler having uniform elasticity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0085] Other advantages of the present invention are described in the following embodiments.

[0086] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a device having a computing unit, an additive manufacturing device, an object to be produced and a storage medium,

[0087] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a base body with a cutaway surface,

[0088] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a matrix filled with cells,

[0089] Figure 4 shows that the center point of the cell is assigned to one side of the cutting plane,

[0090] Figure 5 shows that the cells are assigned to one side of the cut plane,

[0091] Figure 6 shows a three-dimensional stereogram of a partitioning surface conformal to the lattice,

[0092] Figure 7 A perspective view of the overall model having a grid structure consisting of multiple grids is shown.

[0093] Figure 8 shows a first partial model with partitioning surfaces conformally partitioned with the lattice,

[0094] Figure 9 shows a detailed cross-section of two mutually separated partial models in the region of the separating plane,

[0095] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional image of the whole model divided into two parts.

[0096] Figure 11 and Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a method for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model of an object,

[0097] Figure 13 A schematic diagram showing a device having a computing unit and an additive manufacturing device during the production of an object,

[0098] Figure 14 a schematic diagram showing objects in a joining position in a chamber for a smooth and / or materially fitting connection,

[0099] Figure 15 is a two-dimensional diagram of parts of the object before they are combined, and

[0100] Figure 16 A two-dimensional schematic diagram of the production of an object by material-coated connection of parts of the object using a solvent atmosphere is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0101] In the following description of the figures, identical and / or at least similar features are designated by the same reference numerals in the various figures. Individual features, their design and / or mode of operation are generally only explained in detail upon their first mention. If an individual feature is not explained in detail again, its design and / or mode of operation corresponds to that of the already described features of the same effect or with the same name.

[0102] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 is shown, comprising a computing unit 2, an additive manufacturing device 3, and an object 4 to be manufactured. The object 4 to be manufactured should be understood as being the object 4 to be manufactured. A virtual three-dimensional overall model 5 is constructed and / or created based on the object 4 to be manufactured using the computing unit 2. The overall model 5 and the object 4 to be manufactured have identical external dimensions AM in three spatial directions: the longitudinal direction LR, the transverse direction QR, and the height direction HR. The manufacturing device 3 has a restricted manufacturing area 6. To this end, the manufacturing area 6 spans a limited internal dimension IM in the three spatial directions: the longitudinal direction LR, the transverse direction QR, and the height direction HR. This may necessitate segmenting the overall model 5 so that it can be manufactured, in particular printed, within the restricted manufacturing area 6.

[0103] The computing unit 2 may have at least one input interface 7 for detecting, inputting, and / or determining at least one external dimension AM and / or internal dimension IM. Geometric data 8 of the object 4 to be produced and / or the manufacturing device 3 may be detected, inputted, and / or determined automatically and / or by a user using the input interface 7. Based on this geometric data 8, the overall model 5 may be created. Additionally or alternatively, a digital image and / or internal dimensions IM of the manufacturing device 3 may be inputted and / or stored in the computing unit 2. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the computing unit 2 may have an output interface 9 for outputting manufacturing data 10 to the manufacturing device 3 and / or a computer-readable storage medium 11. This manufacturing data 10 may also be created using the computing unit 2.

[0104] exist Figures 2 to 10 , a method, in particular a computer-implemented method, for segmenting a virtual three-dimensional overall model 5 is shown. As mentioned above, the overall model 5 must be segmented into at least two partial models 13 so that it can be manufactured in a restricted manufacturing area 6 of a manufacturing device 3, in particular a 3D printer.

[0105] To this end, according to Figure 2First, a three-dimensional virtual matrix 22 is prepared. This can be done manually by the user in a corresponding program. Alternatively, the geometric data 8 of the matrix 22 can also be entered through an interface. In this case, the matrix 22 provides the basic geometric shape of the object 4 to be printed. Next, at least one section plane 23 is determined, which divides the matrix 22. The exact position and / or geometry of the section plane 23 can be determined manually by the user or automatically by the calculation unit 2. In this case, the section plane 23 can be flat, curved, and / or bent. Alternatively or additionally, the section plane can also have a free-form geometry. Furthermore, the section plane can be composed of multiple different and / or identical segments.

[0106] Then, in the next step, according to Figure 3 The base body 22, in particular its volume, is filled with a plurality of cells 24. Preferably, the volume of the base body 22 is completely filled with such cells 24. For reasons of clarity, Figure 3 Only two of these cells are marked with reference numerals. The matrix 22 can be filled with a single type of cell 24. Alternatively, different types and kinds of cells 24 can also be used that differ from each other in their outer shapes. Each of these cells 24 includes a plurality of edges 25 that define the outer shape of the individual cell 24. The outer shape of the individual cell 24 is also formed by a corresponding grid surface 26. In addition, each of these cells 24 includes a center point 27 (see Figure 4 ).

[0107] An important step of the method is to create a global model 5 of the object 4 in Figure 6 A virtual dividing surface 28 is shown, wherein the dividing surface 28 has a three-dimensional shape that conforms to the grid. The term "conforms to the grid" should be understood to mean a shape of the dividing surface 28 that extends over the outer surfaces of a plurality of cells 24 and therefore does not divide these cells 24. Therefore, in principle, the dividing surface 28 extends over the edges 25 of adjacent cells 24 and / or the grid surface 26.

[0108] The three-dimensional shape of the partitioning surface 28 conforming to the grid is preferably created by an algorithm stored in the computing unit 2. The three-dimensional shape of the partitioning surface 28 conforming to the grid is created based on the grid surfaces 26 and / or edges 25 of the cells 24 respectively adjacent to the cutting plane 23. For this purpose, according to Figure 4First, the cells 24 are assigned to the cutting plane 23. The cutting plane 23 thus includes a first side 29 and an opposite second side 30. Complete cells 24 located at least in the region of the cutting plane 23 are assigned to one of the two sides 29, 30 of the cutting plane 23. Preferably, a corresponding assignment is performed for at least the cells 24 cut by the cutting plane 23. However, in particular, all cells 24 used to fill the base body 22 are assigned to one of the two sides 29, 30 of the cutting plane 23.

[0109] As from Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen in FIG, the allocation of cells 24 is achieved by the respective center point 27 of the cells 24. Thus, the complete cells 24 are respectively allocated to the side 29, 30 on which the center point 27 of the cell of the cutting plane 23 is also located. In order to visualize this allocation, Figure 4 and Figure 5 , all center points 27 of the cells 24 assigned to the first side 29 are shown as points, and all center points 27 of the cells 24 assigned to the second side 30 are shown as circles.

[0110] according to Figure 5 At the end of this method step, a corresponding cell group 31, 32 is assigned to each of the two sides 29, 30 of the cutting plane 23. Alternatively, the assignment can also be made to only one of the two sides 29, 30 of the cutting plane 23. The two cell groups 31, 32 have a three-dimensional, lattice-conformal abutment surface 33 in the region of the cutting plane 23. The two cell groups 31, 32 are flush against each other on the abutment surface 33. Due to the limitations of the illustration, Figure 5 Only the outer contour of the abutment surface 33 can be seen.

[0111] Now, a cell is created based on at least one of the two cell groups 31, 32. Figure 6 Therefore, in the next method step, the shape of the dividing surface 28 is created corresponding to and / or according to the three-dimensional lattice-conformal interface 33 of at least one of the two unit groups 31, 32. Figure 6 As can be seen in FIG, the dividing surface 28 thus has a shape conforming to the lattice, which corresponds to the edges 25 and / or lattice surfaces 26 of those cells 24 that form the interface 33 of the two cell groups 31, 32. Thus, the dividing surface 28 has the edges 25 and / or lattice surfaces 26 of the cells 24 adjacent thereto, which determine the shape and / or geometry of the dividing surface.

[0112] Before, during or after creating the virtual three-dimensional segmentation surface 28, Figure 3 The matrix 22 shown is filled with a plurality of complete and / or closed cells 24 to create Figure 7The overall model 5 of the object 4 is shown. Here, the overall model 5 has a plurality of grids 34, which together form a grid structure 35. The overall model 5 of the object 4 is a volume model. For this purpose, a support body 36 having its own volume is used instead of Figure 3 The cells 24 are shown. The support bodies 36 extend along the edges 25 of the cells 24 and form grids 34 corresponding to the cells 24 , which in turn form a grid structure 35 .

[0113] Figure 7 The overall model 5 having the grid structure 35 shown may include a surface grid structure 37, which forms the outer surface of the grid structure 35. In order to create the surface grid structure 37, Figure 3 The cell 24 shown is Figure 2 The outer surface 38 of the base body 22 is shown in section.

[0114] Figure 7 The grid structure 35 of the overall model 5 shown can now be utilized and / or along Figure 6 The dividing plane 28 is shown to be divided into Figure 10 Partial models 13a, 13b are shown. Figure 8 One of the two partial models 13a is shown with a partitioning plane 28 that partitions conformally with the lattice. Figure 8 It can be seen from FIG that the cells 34 are closed in the region of the dividing plane 28. None of the supports 36 of these cells 34 are cut through.

[0115] Figure 9 The detailed partial view shows that the overall model 5 is divided into two partial models 13a and 13b in a lattice-conformal manner. Thus, the first partial model 13a has a first lattice 34a, and the second partial model 13b has a second lattice 34b. The first lattice 34a and the second lattice 34b are both closed. The first lattice 34a of the first partial model 13a and the second lattice 34b of the second partial model 13b, which are adjacent to each other, share a common support 36, which is referred to as a common support 39 below. As shown in FIG. Figure 9 As can be seen in the figure, these common supports 39 of the grid structure 35 are divided by means of dividing planes 28 conforming to the grid, so that the corresponding grids 34 remain complete and / or closed. Therefore, the common supports 39 are divided not in their transverse direction but in their respective longitudinal directions by dividing planes 28 conforming to the grid. Therefore, the parts 40, 41 of each common support 39 extend without gaps and / or continuously between the two nodes 42, 43 of the respective corresponding grids 34. Therefore, the corresponding grids 34a, 34b remain complete and / or closed. This ensures a very high stability of the grid structure 35. Figure 9In the embodiment shown, the common support body 39 is divided axially symmetrically. Alternatively, however, an asymmetrical division is also possible, so that the two parts 40, 41 are designed differently from each other.

[0116] Figure 10 The overall model 5 is shown with its partial models 13a and 13b. Due to the conformal division of the lattice, the two partial models 13a and 13b now have corresponding joint surfaces 14a and 14b. Each of these corresponding joint surfaces 14a and 14b is formed by a portion 40 and 41 of a common support 39. When the two partial models 13a and 13b are joined, a complete common support 39 is formed again from the two corresponding portions 40 and 41.

[0117] Figure 11 and Figure 12 An exemplary method flow for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model 12 of an object 4 is shown. This method can be combined with the above-described method for segmenting the overall model 5, wherein the above-described features can be present individually or in any combination. The method flow described here can be implemented completely or partially in Figure 1 In this case, Figure 11 , an overall model 5 and a restricted production area 6 are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer dimension AM of the overall model 5 exceeds the corresponding inner dimension IM of the production area 6 at least in the longitudinal direction LR. Additionally or alternatively, the outer dimension AM of the overall model 5 may exceed the corresponding inner dimension IM of the production area 6 in another spatial direction, for example, in the transverse direction QR. This comparison can be performed in additional and / or identical method steps.

[0118] Figure 12 Shows the connection Figure 11 Method steps of the method steps of the method. Figure 11 The overall model 5 of the embodiment is divided into two partial models 13. It is also conceivable to divide the overall model 5 into more partial models 13. Each of the partial models 13 now has a joining surface 14, which can be used for joining in a later manufacturing method. In addition to the joining surface, a connecting element 15 is formed to connect the two partial models 13 to each other. With the help of this connecting element 15, the two partial models 13 are movably connected to each other, so that the two partial models can be moved relative to each other from the manufacturing position shown here to a joining position, in which the corresponding joining surfaces 14 of the partial models 13 are spaced apart from each other and in which the corresponding joining surfaces 14 of the partial models 13 are in close contact with each other in the joining position. The object 4 in the joining position is, for example, Figure 14 In the embodiment shown, the connecting element 15 is designed as a connecting hinge, by means of which the two partial models 13 can be pivoted relative to each other.

[0119] In addition to these two partial models 13, Figure 12 , two sub-models 16 are shown, wherein one of the two sub-models 13 is one of the sub-models 16. Additionally or alternatively, the other sub-model 13 can be divided into sub-models 16. It is also conceivable to divide at least one of the sub-models 13 into more sub-models 16. In this case, an additional optional iteration step of the method is performed. In this optional iteration step, at least one of the external dimensions AM of the sub-model 13 in the production position is compared with the corresponding internal dimension IM of the production area 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the external dimension AM and the corresponding internal dimension IM are compared in the transverse direction QR. Because the external dimension AM of one of the sub-models 13 in the production position exceeds the internal dimension IM of the production area 6 in the transverse direction QR, this sub-model 13 is divided into two sub-models 16 and moved to the production position using a further connecting element 15'. In the illustrated embodiment, in the production position, the two sub-models 13 and the sub-models 16 are arranged one above the other in the height direction HR.

[0120] Furthermore, at least one locking element 17 is advantageously arranged on at least one of the partial models 13 and / or the sub-partial models 16. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the locking element 17 is arranged on each of the two partial models 13. The locking element 17 is designed as a latching projection and a receptacle for the latching projection. The locking element 17 can lock the two corresponding partial models 13 in a joint position in which the two joint surfaces 14 are in contact with each other. The object 4 in the joint position, for example, Figure 14 It is also conceivable to integrate the locking element 17 in the connecting element 15. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the partial models 16 can have a locking element 17.

[0121] Therefore, in Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, a manufacturing model 12 is created. Here, the manufacturing model 12 has two part models 13, two sub-part models 16, connecting elements 15, 15' and locking elements 17. The outer dimensions AM of the manufacturing model 12 do not exceed the inner dimensions IM of the manufacturing region 6 in any of the spatial directions LR, QR, HR and can therefore be used. Figure 1 To this end, in particular by means of a manufacturing device 3 Figure 1 The computing unit 2 of the device 1 of the embodiment creates manufacturing data 10 from the manufacturing model 12 and sends it to the manufacturing device 3. Figure 13 The method steps are also shown in FIG.

[0122] Figure 131 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 having a computing unit 2 and an additive manufacturing device 3 for manufacturing an object 4. The computing unit 2 has already created a manufacturing model 12, in particular according to the above description. To this end, the computing unit 2 may include a computer program and / or artificial intelligence that implements at least some of the method steps for creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model 12 of the object 4.

[0123] Here, the manufacturing model 12 is Figure 12 The embodiment of the embodiment is constructed similarly. Subsequently, manufacturing data 10 are created from the manufacturing model 12 and transmitted to the manufacturing device 3 via the output interface 9. The manufacturing device 3 has already generated the first layer of the object 4. Here, the object 4 is manufactured in multiple parts, in the form of multiple parts 18 that are movably connected to each other via at least one connecting element 15. In the illustrated embodiment, the parts 18 are located in the manufacturing position. Because the illustrated embodiment involves a powder-based 3D printing method, the manufacturing device 3 has a powder application unit 19 for applying material powder and an irradiation unit 20 for curing the material powder. For clarity of illustration, the uncured powder surrounding the object 4 is not shown.

[0124] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of an object 4 in a joining position in a chamber 21 for smoothing and / or for material-bonding connection is shown. Figures 1 to 13 The method and / or device 1 of the aforementioned embodiment is generated. The chamber 21 can also be part of the device 1. Likewise, Figure 1 and Figure 13 The manufacturing device 3 can construct a chamber 21.

[0125] exist Figure 13 After the illustrated production, parts 18 of object 4 are moved from the production position to the joined position by means of connecting element 15. Since connecting element 15 is a rotary hinge in the illustrated embodiment, both parts 18 of object 4 have already been pivoted into the joined position. The two corresponding joining surfaces 14 are in this joined position. Furthermore, as shown here, locking element 17 can be locked, preventing the two parts 18 from being moved back into the production position.

[0126] In the joining position, the object 4 can be exposed to a solvent atmosphere that can be formed in the chamber 21. This can smooth the surface of the object 4 and / or allow the parts 18 of the object 4 to be materially connected to one another in the region of their abutting joining surfaces 14. If the two parts 18 are materially connected to one another in the region of the joining surfaces 14, the connecting element 15 and / or the locking element 17 can optionally be removed after the joining. This allows protruding elements to be removed from the object 4. Additionally or alternatively, the connecting element 15 can be designed as a film hinge. Such a connecting element 15 can be formed so that it does not protrude from the object 4.

[0127] Figure 15 A two-dimensional schematic diagram shows two partial objects 44 that are joined to form object 4. The partial objects 44 can be produced according to the above description from virtual partial models 13a, 13b, respectively, wherein the aforementioned features can be present individually or in any combination. Additionally or alternatively, the partial objects 44 can be configured as a production model 12 according to the above description, wherein the partial objects 44 are connected to one another via at least one connecting element 15 and / or are positioned relative to one another in a reduced production position.

[0128] The two-dimensional representation is used to illustrate the principle. Generally, the object 4 has a three-dimensional shape according to the above description. Figure 15 As shown, two partial objects 44 have a consistent grid structure 35, which is preferably segmented in a grid-conformal manner as described above. The grid structure 35 has a plurality of grids 34. Combinations of different grid patterns as the smallest unit of the grid are also conceivable.

[0129] The partial objects 44 are confined such that only complete and / or closed lattices 34 are present in the grid structure 35. In other words, the partial objects 44 are confined by the boundary surfaces 45 of the lattices 34. Likewise, the corresponding joint surfaces 14 of the partial objects 44 are formed by a plurality of boundary surfaces 45 of the lattices 34, wherein the partial objects 44 come into contact at these joint surfaces during the method (see also Figure 16 ).

[0130] Figure 16A method for producing a composite object 4 is shown in a two-dimensional schematic diagram. In the additive manufacturing method, at least two partial objects 44, in particular those produced according to the above description, are placed in a chamber 46 so that they touch at their corresponding joint surfaces 14. A solvent atmosphere 47 is present in the chamber 46. The solvent atmosphere 47 smoothes the surfaces of the partial objects 44, in particular the grid structure 35. On the other hand, a material-fitting connection is created between the partial objects 44 at the corresponding joint surfaces 14 that are in contact with each other, thereby producing a composite object 4. Due to the mutually fitting shapes of the partial objects 44 caused by the boundary surfaces 45 of the grid 34, the partial objects 44 can be connected in a form-fitting manner.

[0131] The combined object 4 has, in particular, a consistent and uniform lattice structure 35. Ideally, the corresponding joint surface 14 is no longer visible after the method is completed. The solvent atmosphere 47 can be produced in the manner already described. For safety reasons, the chamber 46 can be sealed airtight, for example, while the solvent atmosphere 47 is present. The partial object 44 can, for example, be placed on a support (not shown) in the chamber 46 or hung on a hook (not shown).

[0132] The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described. Variations are also possible within the scope of the claims, such as combining features even if these are shown and described in different exemplary embodiments.

[0133] Reference Signs List

[0134] 1 device

[0135] 2 Computing Unit

[0136] 3 Manufacturing equipment

[0137] 4 Objects

[0138] 5 Overall Model

[0139] 6 Manufacturing Area

[0140] 7 Input Interface

[0141] 8 Geometric shape data

[0142] 9 Output interface

[0143] 10 Manufacturing Data

[0144] 11 Storage Media

[0145] 12. Make the Model

[0146] 13 Part Model

[0147] 14 Joint surface

[0148] 15, 15' connecting element

[0149] 16 Sub-section Model

[0150] 17 Locking element

[0151] 18 parts

[0152] 19 powder coating units

[0153] 20 irradiation units

[0154] 21 Chamber

[0155] 22 matrix

[0156] 23 Section plane

[0157] 24 cells

[0158] 25 Edges

[0159] 26 Grid Surface

[0160] 27 Center Point

[0161] 28 split surface

[0162] 29 First side of the cut plane

[0163] 30 Second side of the cut plane

[0164] 31 First cell group

[0165] 32 Second cell group

[0166] 33 docking surface

[0167] 34 grids

[0168] 35 Grid Structure

[0169] 36 support body

[0170] 37 Surface grid structure

[0171] 38 External surface of base body

[0172] 39 Common support

[0173] 40 The first part of the common support body

[0174] 41 The second part of the divided common support

[0175] 42 First Node

[0176] 43 Second Node

[0177] 44 Partial Objects

[0178] 45 Boundary surface

[0179] 46 chambers

[0180] 47 Solvent atmosphere

[0181] AM External Dimensions

[0182] IM Internal Dimensions

[0183] LR longitudinal direction

[0184] QR horizontal direction

[0185] HR height direction

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for dividing a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of an object (4) into at least two virtual partial models (13a, 13b) so that the object (4) can be manufactured within a limited manufacturing area of ​​an additive manufacturing device (3), wherein: The overall model (5) is a virtual image of the object (4) to be manufactured. The method comprises the following steps: - providing a three-dimensional virtual matrix (22) and filling the matrix (22) with a plurality of cells (24), wherein each cell (24) comprises a plurality of edges (25) and a lattice surface (26), wherein the edges and the lattice surface define the outer shape of the corresponding cell (24); - creating a virtual segmentation surface (28) for the overall model (5) of the object (4), said segmentation surface having a three-dimensional shape conformal to the lattice, said three-dimensional shape conformal to the lattice following the geometry, morphology, outer surface and / or contour of the unit cell; - creating an overall model (5) of the object (4) using a grid structure (35) consisting of a plurality of grids (34); wherein the cells (24) are replaced by support bodies (36) extending along the edges (25) of the cells (24), and the support bodies themselves appear as objects with volume; and - splitting the whole model (5) into two partial models (13a, 13b) along a splitting plane (28) conformal to the lattice, In this case, the common support body (39) of the grid structure (35) is divided by a dividing surface (28) that is conformal to the lattice, so that the corresponding lattices (34a, 34b) remain closed, wherein the common support body is each a component of at least one lattice (34) of a partial model (13a) and a component of at least one adjacent lattice (34) of another partial model (13b).

2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein: The common supports (39) are divided in their respective longitudinal directions; the common supports (39) are divided so that the parts (40, 41) of each common support (39) extend without gaps and / or continuously between two nodes (42, 43) of the respective corresponding grids (34); and / or at least one of the common supports (39) is divided so that the corresponding parts (40, 41) are symmetrical or asymmetrical with each other.

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein: The method comprises the following steps: - determining at least one sectioning plane (23) which separates the base body (22), in particular a flat, curved and / or angled sectioning plane.

4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, wherein: The three-dimensional shape of the partitioning plane (28) conforming to the lattice is created by an algorithm and / or by the lattice surfaces (26) of at least some of the complete cells (24) located in the area of ​​the cutting plane (23).

5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, wherein: In order to create a three-dimensional shape of the dividing surface (28) that is conformal to the lattice, at least the complete cells (24) located in the area of ​​the cutting surface (23) are assigned to one of the two sides (29, 30) of the cutting surface (23), so that a corresponding cell group (31, 32) is assigned to each of the two sides (29, 30) of the cutting surface (23), and the cell group has a three-dimensional lattice-conformal interface (33) in the area of ​​the cutting surface (23).

6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein: The complete cells (24) are each assigned via their center point (27) to one of the two sides (29, 30) of the section plane (23), wherein the complete cells (24) are each assigned to the side (29, 30) of the section plane (23) on which the center point (27) of the cells is located.

7. The computer-implemented method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The shape of the dividing surface (28) corresponds to and / or is created based on a three-dimensional lattice-conformal interface (33) of one of the two unit cell groups (31, 32).

8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7, wherein: The cells (24) are cut through by the outer surface (38) of the base body (22) in order to construct a surface grid structure (37).

9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, wherein: The method has at least one of the following steps: - comparing at least one external dimension (AM) of the virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of the object (4) with at least one corresponding internal dimension (IM) of the restricted production area (6) of the additive manufacturing device (3) in at least one spatial direction (LR, QR, HR); - when the outer dimension (AM) of the overall model (5) exceeds the corresponding inner dimension (IM) of the manufacturing area (6), splitting the overall model (5) into at least two virtual three-dimensional partial models (13a, 13b); - constructing at least one connecting element (15, 15') that movably connects at least two partial models (13a, 13b) to each other, so that the at least two partial models can be moved relative to each other from a manufacturing position to a joining position, wherein corresponding joining surfaces (14) of the partial models (13a, 13b) are spaced apart from each other in the manufacturing position and corresponding joining surfaces (14) of the partial models (13a, 13b) abut against each other in the joining position; and / or - Creating a virtual three-dimensional manufacturing model (12) at the manufacturing location of the partial model (13a, 13b).

10. A computer program product comprising a computer program which, when executed by a computing unit (2), causes the computing unit to execute the computer-implemented method according to claims 1 to 9 for segmenting a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of an object (4) into at least two virtual partial models (13a, 13b).

11. A computer-readable storage medium (11) having a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5), The overall model is generated by the computer-implemented method according to claim 1, The overall model is a virtual image of the object to be manufactured (4), The object has a grid structure (35) consisting of a plurality of grids (34), wherein a support (36) of the grids (34) itself appears as an object having a volume, and The overall model is divided into at least two virtual partial models (13a, 13b) so that the object (4) can be manufactured within a limited manufacturing area of ​​the additive manufacturing device (3). in, The adjacent first lattices (34a) of the first partial model (13a) and the second lattices (34b) of the second partial model (13b) are connected by a common support (36), which is called a common support (39). The common support (39) is part of the grid structure (35) of the overall model (5), and is part of at least one first grid (34) of the first partial model (13a) and part of at least one second grid (34) of the second partial model (13b), and they are shared in such a way that the corresponding grids (34a, 34b) remain closed.

12. A method for making an object (4), comprising the following steps: - creating a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of the object (4) by means of a computer-implemented method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the overall model being divided into at least two virtual partial models (13a, 13b); - creating manufacturing data (10) for the additive manufacturing device (3) based on the segmented, virtual, three-dimensional overall model (5); and - Manufacturing the object (4) using the additive manufacturing device (3) based on the manufacturing data (10).

13. An object (4), The object (4) is manufactured by the manufacturing method according to claim 12; The object presents a real image of a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5), The overall model is produced by the computer-implemented method according to claim 1, The overall model has a grid structure (35) consisting of a plurality of grids (34), wherein the support (36) of the grids (34) itself appears as an object with volume, and The grid structure is divided into at least two virtual part models (13a, 13b), so that the object (4) can be manufactured within a limited manufacturing area of ​​the additive manufacturing device (3), in, The adjacent first lattices (34a) of the first partial model (13a) and the second lattices (34b) of the second partial model (13b) are connected by a common support (36), which is called a common support (39). The common support (39) is part of the grid structure (35) of the overall model (5), and is part of at least one first grid (34) of the first partial model (13a) and part of at least one second grid (34) of the second partial model (13b), and they are shared in such a way that the corresponding grids (34a, 34b) remain closed.

14. A device (1), A computing unit (2) having a method for creating a virtual three-dimensional overall model (5) of an object (4) and / or An additive manufacturing device (3) for producing an object (4) is provided, It is characterized in that The computing unit (2) is designed to operate according to claim 9.

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