Custom device with a 3D motif

Abstract

Device comprising a surface that is at least partially non-planar, wherein a motif is applied to the surface that follows the non-planar surface and the motif was created additively or subtractively.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device comprising a surface that is at least partially non-planar, wherein a motif is attached to the surface that follows the non-planar surface and the motif was created additively or subtractively.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer program product for creating the device. Background and state of the art

[0003] There is often a desire to apply a motif, such as lettering, a logo, a symbol or an image, to a surface in order to achieve a specific function, information, personalization and / or aesthetic effect.

[0004] Applying such designs to flat surfaces generally presents no major technical difficulties. Printing, engraving, embossing, laser processing, or additive manufacturing processes can be used to apply a design with high precision and uniform geometry.

[0005] However, the situation is different for surfaces that are curved, irregular, or otherwise deviate from an ideal plane. In industrial practice, a wide variety of non-planar surfaces occur, such as spherical, cylindrical, conical, or free-form surfaces. These surfaces significantly complicate the transfer of a two-dimensionally designed motif.

[0006] Common methods often attempt to project a two-dimensional image onto an imaginary plane and then transfer this projection to the actual three-dimensional surface. However, this approach leads to the following fundamental geometric problem: Projecting a flat image onto a curved surface inevitably leads to distortions, as the proportions between the projection surface and the target surface do not match. This results in differences in proportions, lines, and the overall geometry of the image. In particular, lettering and graphic elements with clearly defined edges or uniform radii lose their characteristic shape through projection. For example, letters may appear stretched, compressed, or irregularly deformed, and / or lines may appear uneven. The overall image can thus appear distorted and / or unaesthetic.

[0007] These distortions of text or image geometry result directly from the geometric discrepancy between the projection plane and the actual surface. The problem becomes more pronounced the greater the deviation of the surface from a flat plane. Even slight curvatures can lead to visible distortions of form, which are unacceptable in technical or design applications. This is particularly problematic in cases where high demands are placed on legibility, precision, or optical quality, such as lettering, branding, nameplates, or high-quality design objects.

[0008] Techniques such as pad printing, screen printing, and laser engraving are also sometimes used to transfer designs onto curved surfaces. However, it cannot always be guaranteed that geometric distortion will be completely avoided. These technologies still require detailed knowledge of the surface geometry. Furthermore, the digital methods known to date are highly dependent on the accuracy of the underlying 3D data. Even slight deviations or manufacturing tolerances can cause the design to appear distorted on the actual surface.

[0009] It is also possible to transfer a design onto a film and then use the film to transfer the design to a curved surface via a pressure contact. However, this option is complex, inefficient, and limited in height. Furthermore, it offers little scope for further editing and / or modification of the design.

[0010] Furthermore, the known state of the art is often limited to specific materials or manufacturing systems and cannot be flexibly applied to different product geometries. In industrial practice, this frequently results in designs on complexly shaped components appearing imprecise, asymmetrical, or visually unsatisfactory. In decorative applications, the design appears inauthentic or artificial.

[0011] There is therefore a significant technical need for a solution that allows motifs to be applied to non-planar surfaces in such a way that they accurately replicate the actual surface contours without distortions, dimensional deviations, or unnatural shapes. Object of the invention

[0012] The object of the invention is to provide a device that enables an aesthetically pleasing, geometrically correct, and reproducible representation of a motif. A further object of the invention is to provide a computer program that can be used to create such a device. Summary of the invention

[0013] The object of the invention is solved by the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0014] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a device comprising a surface which is at least partially non-planar, wherein a motif is attached to the surface which follows the non-planar surface and the motif was created additively or subtractively.

[0015] Advantageously, the device effectively solves the problem of geometric distortion of motifs on curved surfaces. Unlike the prior art, in which an originally flat motif is projected onto a complex surface, the device according to the invention generates the motif in relation to the actual geometry of the surface. This means that the shape of the motif takes into account the actual surface contour of the device. The geometric parameters of the motif, such as line shape, curvature, depth, or height, are adapted to the surface shape, so that the motif is formed on the non-planar surface without deformations or distortions.

[0016] If the design is additively manufactured, this can be achieved, for example, by selectively applying material. The design is built up layer by layer along the actual surface, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into the contours of the device. Even when the design is created subtractively, the machining path follows the exact geometry of the surface, ensuring that the removed design accurately reproduces the surface shape.

[0017] This approach ensures that the design remains unchanged in its proportions, spacing, and contours, regardless of surface curvature. Lettering retains its legibility, letters and symbols appear in the correct shape and size, and images or graphic patterns appear authentic and harmonious. The design visually and tactilely "lies" on the surface as if it were an integral part of the component. This creates a particularly high-quality and aesthetically pleasing overall impression.

[0018] A further advantage is that the motif appears uniform and natural from all viewing angles due to the precise adherence to the surface contour. When viewed from different perspectives, no optical illusions or unwanted shading occur, which often arise with distorted motifs on curved surfaces. Furthermore, the motif according to the invention conveys an impression of spatial depth and high-quality material integration, as it is in close geometric relation to the actual shape of the surface.

[0019] Furthermore, the device offers new design and functional possibilities. The motif can be used not only as a decorative element, but also as a functional feature, for example, as a raised or recessed structure for tactile orientation or as a marking. The precise reproduction of the surface contours preserves the integrity of the overall design, creating a harmonious interplay between form and graphic content.

[0020] For the purposes of this invention, a device is understood to be a physical object having an outer surface on which a motif is formed. The device can be a single component, a composite component, or a section of a larger product. It can fulfill any technical or decorative function.

[0021] The surface refers to the outer boundary of the device, i.e., the physical interface between the material of the device and the surrounding environment.

[0022] The phrase "the surface is at least partially non-planar" means, in the context of the invention, that the surface of the device deviates from an ideal plane in at least one section. This can include, for example, simple or double curvature, a concave, convex, and / or free shape. The surface can be non-planar in a partial section. The surface of the device can also be entirely non-planar.

[0023] A motif refers to a geometric or graphic structure formed on the surface of the device. The motif can be decorative (e.g., lettering, symbol, image, ornament, etc.) or functional (e.g., structure for tactile orientation, marking, etc.).

[0024] The design follows the non-planar surface of the device. This means, in particular, that the geometric design of the design takes into account the actual three-dimensional shape of the surface. The design is not transferred as a planar projection onto the curved surface, but rather generated along the actual surface contour. Thus, the lines, curves, area proportions, and heights of the design correspond directly to the surface geometry of the device, so that no geometric distortions occur. The design is therefore optically and haptically adapted to the shape of the surface.

[0025] The design is created additively or subtractively.

[0026] The additive manufacturing of the design involves the targeted application of material to the surface of the device. This can be achieved particularly through 3D printing. The applied material forms the design as a raised area or structure, with the application path following the actual surface contour.

[0027] Subtractive design refers to the creation of a motif by selectively removing material from the surface of the device, or, in the case of additive manufacturing, by omitting the motif altogether. The machining path is adapted to the shape of the surface so that the removed areas follow the actual geometry and the resulting motif precisely reflects the curvature of the surface.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, a virtual substitute device with a smooth surface is provided that approximates the surface of the device, and the motif is created additively or subtractively using offset surfaces.

[0029] This approximation is performed in a manner comparable to the method of integral calculus, where a function is approximated by a multitude of simpler sub-functions. In this case, the actual curved or irregular surface of the device is described by one or more so-called offset surfaces. An offset surface is a geometric surface that lies at a constant or variable distance from a reference surface and whose shape follows this surface at all points.

[0030] A substitute device is understood to be a digital or virtual model of the real device that represents its geometry in a simplified form. The substitute device does not exist physically but is generated computationally, for example, in a CAD or CAM environment. It preferably has a smooth surface that geometrically approximates the actual, non-planar surface of the real device. This virtual substitute surface serves as the mathematical basis for the first step in generating a motif adapted to the geometry of the device without visible distortions.

[0031] In other words, the design is preferably created based on a virtual substitute device with a smooth surface. Preferably, the smooth surface of the substitute device approximates the (non-planar) surface of the actual device. The design is then created additively or subtractively using offset surfaces.

[0032] By providing the virtual substitute device, the complex real surface geometry can be transformed into a computationally easier-to-handle form.

[0033] The geometrically correct design created using the substitute device is then precisely adapted to the device with the aid of offset surfaces. These offset surfaces serve as the geometric basis for building up or removing material along the surface of the design. The design is thus created in close relation to the actual shape of the device, but based on a mathematically defined substitute geometry that allows for precise control of the design geometry. This approach ensures that the design fully reflects the actual curvature of the device, while simultaneously being generated computationally more easily and with greater stability.

[0034] This process offers the advantage of avoiding geometric distortions, which often occur when directly projecting flat designs onto curved surfaces. Because the design is created on offset surfaces that closely approximate the real surface, the proportions, spacing, and lines of the design are preserved. This results in a particularly aesthetically pleasing and undistorted appearance. Lettering, symbols, and graphic patterns retain their original form and appear harmoniously integrated into the three-dimensional structure of the device.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment, the motif follows a straight or curved line along the surface.

[0036] Therefore, the geometric arrangement of the motif can be aligned with a defined guideline, which may run on or within the surface geometry. This guideline can be a simple straight line, representing, for example, an edge, axis, or constructive reference line of the device. It can also be an arbitrarily curved path that follows the shape of the surface, such as along a curve, bulge, or freely modeled contour.

[0037] The design is created in such a way that its position and orientation are directly determined by the course of this line. This allows the design to be applied, for example, as lettering, a series of symbols, or a pattern along a uniformly or variably curved path. Particularly with curved surfaces, this enables the design to be harmoniously integrated into the geometry of the device without optical distortions or irregular spacing.

[0038] A major advantage is that the design maintains a defined spatial orientation regardless of surface curvature. Straight lines can thus be perceived as uniform connections across complex surfaces, while curved lines emphasize the natural shape of the device and create aesthetically pleasing accents. In this way, visual coherence between the design and the component's form is preserved, resulting in a technically precise yet aesthetically balanced appearance.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, the motif is present as an independent body on the surface or as a cut in the surface of the device.

[0040] In this context, an independent body means that the design comprises a material deposit applied to the surface, forming a raised structure. The design is thus additively manufactured. This structure can be created, for example, through 3D printing. The design represents a separate body, firmly attached to the surface, which is visually and haptically perceptible and stands out from the surrounding surface due to its height, shape, and / or material properties.

[0041] The design is created subtractively during the cutting process. Material is removed from the surface of the device, defining the shape of the design. The design is therefore an integral part of the surface, as it is directly incorporated into the structure of the device through targeted material removal.

[0042] An applied motif can be used for targeted emphasis, while an incised motif allows for a subtle yet precise integration into the surface shape. Both options result in a high-quality, distortion-free representation of the motif, which blends harmoniously into the geometry of the device and offers both aesthetic and functional advantages depending on the application.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the motif is present as one or more protrusions and / or indentations on the surface.

[0044] The protrusions and / or indentations are localized deviations in the surface shape, deliberately designed to give the motif a three-dimensional appearance. In this context, a protrusion refers to an outward-facing area of ​​the surface that stands out from the surrounding area and forms a raised structure. An indentation, on the other hand, describes an inward-facing area, i.e., a depression or hollow, created by material removal or deformation of the surface.

[0045] The design can be composed of a combination of several such structural elements that together form a geometric and / or graphic shape, for example, lines, symbols, patterns, and / or lettering. These form elements can be distributed regularly or irregularly and adapt to the non-planar geometry of the device, so that they follow its contour and blend seamlessly into one another in different surface areas.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment, the motif comprises one or more words and / or images.

[0047] A lettering element is understood to be any form of one or more alphanumeric or symbolic characters, such as letters, numbers, logos, words, trademarks, or other textual content. An image, as defined in the invention, can be any graphic representation, illustration, pictogram, or figurative motif composed of lines, areas, or structures. Lettering elements and images can appear individually or in combination and together form the motif arranged on the surface of the device.

[0048] The design can be created in such a way that the lettering or images follow the non-planar surface of the device. This ensures that their geometric proportions, spacing, and contours are preserved regardless of the surface curvature. Unlike conventional projection techniques, where flat graphics are transferred onto curved surfaces and thereby distorted, the invention takes the actual geometry of the surface into account during the design process. Thus, characters remain fully legible and retain their correct form, while images appear without perspective or geometric distortion.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment, the surface comprises one or more indentations and / or protrusions, which preferably represent an image.

[0050] In this context, an inward-facing area of ​​the surface is understood to be a concave shape, forming a depression or hollow. A bulge, on the other hand, describes an outward-facing area, i.e., a convex elevation of the surface. Both forms can be localized or widespread.

[0051] The interplay of indentations and protrusions allows for the creation of complex, three-dimensional structures that form an image. These indentations and protrusions follow the actual surface geometry of the device, ensuring that the displayed image integrates harmoniously into the overall contour. The result is a high-quality, technically precise, and aesthetically pleasing appearance that transcends form and representation, opening up new design and functional possibilities in surface finishing.

[0052] In a further preferred embodiment, the surface is at least partially, preferably completely, convex and / or concave.

[0053] A convex surface, in this context, refers to an outwardly curved shape where the surface normals point away from each other, similar to the outer surface of a sphere or cylinder. A concave surface, on the other hand, has an inward curve, comparable to the inside of a bowl or depression, where the surface normals point towards each other.

[0054] By shaping the surface as convex and / or concave, complex forms can be realized for the device. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that aesthetically and geometrically undistorted motifs can be created on both convex and concave surfaces. Adapting the motif to the actual surface shape ensures that lines, lettering, and images are reproduced correctly in their proportions, even with strong curvatures. As a result, the motifs appear natural and harmonious from all viewing angles, without perspective distortion or uneven stretching.

[0055] In another preferred embodiment, the motif comprises numbers and / or letters that have essentially the same height or depth.

[0056] Height, in this context, refers to the distance of a raised area of ​​the design from the original surface plane of the device, while depth describes the distance of a recessed area from this plane. Uniform height or depth ensures that all elements of the design, regardless of their shape, width, or curvature, lie a consistent distance above or below the surface.

[0057] This geometric uniformity results in a harmonious and precise appearance of the design. Particularly with lettering containing multiple letters or numbers, this creates a consistent overall visual impression, where no characters stand out or recede. At the same time, legibility is improved, as all characters are equally prominent and exhibit nearly identical shadow and reflection characteristics under illumination.

[0058] A further advantage lies in reproducibility. The uniform height or depth allows additive or subtractive manufacturing processes to be carried out with constant process parameters, without requiring individual adjustments for each character. Furthermore, the uniform design facilitates the digital creation of the motif, as the associated geometric data can be defined via standardized offset areas or height profiles.

[0059] In another preferred embodiment, the device is a picture frame, a vase, a statue, a housing, a machine part, a tool, a drinking bottle, a package, a spectacle frame, jewelry, a wall decoration, a candle holder, a mask, a casing or a tube.

[0060] This list illustrates that the device according to the invention is not limited to specific areas of application or shapes, but can be applied to a wide variety of objects that have at least partially non-planar surfaces.

[0061] Depending on its design, the device can serve decorative, functional, or technical purposes. In the case of a picture frame, vase, statue, jewelry, wall decoration, candle holder, or mask, aesthetic design is paramount, with motifs such as lettering, images, symbols, or ornaments enhancing the visual and / or aesthetic effect. In the case of housings, machine parts, tools, drinking bottles, packaging, casings, or pipes, the motif can also fulfill functional roles, such as serving as a marking, tactile orientation element, reinforcing structure, or indicating operating functions.

[0062] The device allows motifs to be precisely adapted to the surface contour, regardless of whether the surface is flat, convex, concave, or complexly curved. This enables motifs to be integrated into the device's shape without distortion and in a harmonious manner, enhancing both visual quality and functional usability. The wide range of possible configurations highlights its broad applicability, extending from decorative objects to technical components, and in all cases enabling high-quality, geometrically accurate, and aesthetically pleasing motif representation on non-planar surfaces.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment, the device comprises a picture frame for framing a picture. - a strip and - a back panel, so that the picture can be enclosed in the picture frame between the strip and the back panel by connecting the strip to the back panel.

[0064] The picture is positioned between the frame strip and the backing board, so that it is securely held in the frame by the connection between the strip and the backing board. The strip forms the visible front edge of the picture frame and simultaneously supports the non-planar surface on which the artwork is mounted.

[0065] The back panel serves to stabilize the picture and to accommodate the connecting elements that join the frame to the back panel. This construction holds the picture firmly in the frame, while the front of the frame remains free for decorative motifs. The inventive adaptation of the motif to the actual surface contour of the frame allows the decorative elements to be displayed without distortion even on curved, concave, and / or convex frame surfaces.

[0066] The precise design of the front surface enhances the visual appeal of the picture. Lettering, patterns, or reliefs can be harmoniously integrated into the shape of the frame, making it function both as a decorative object and as a personalized element. Furthermore, motifs remain uniform and proportionally correct on curved frame surfaces, significantly increasing the aesthetic impact and the high-quality craftsmanship of the picture frame.

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment, the motif comprises numbers, uppercase letters and / or lowercase letters, wherein the numbers, uppercase letters or lowercase letters are at substantially the same distance from a contour of the bar.

[0068] The contour of a strip refers to its outer boundary or outline, which defines its shape. The distance to the contour indicates the spatial distance that the characters, i.e., numbers and / or letters, maintain from this boundary, resulting in a uniform arrangement along the edge of the strip.

[0069] This uniform positioning creates a harmonious and balanced appearance of the motif on the frame's molding. The characters follow the molding's surface contour, ensuring their proportions and spacing remain undistorted, even if the molding is non-planar, concave, or convex. In this way, numbers and letters appear visually evenly distributed and professionally designed, which is particularly advantageous for decorative or descriptive motifs.

[0070] The consistent spacing also facilitates the production of the design using both additive and subtractive methods. In additive processes, the characters can be applied precisely along a defined offset. In subtractive processes, the machining path can be planned exactly, ensuring that each letter and number maintains the same distance from the frame's contour. This results in an aesthetically pleasing, symmetrical, and technically sound representation of the design on the front of the picture frame.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment, the strip has a seam, preferably on the surface, which was formed by the additive or subtractive manufacturing process and / or a shape of the strip and / or the back wall is selected from a group comprising a circular shape, heart shape, star shape, wave shape, two-, three-, four-, five-, six-, seven-, eight-, nine-, and decagonal shape.

[0072] A seam is a connection or joint between two areas of material that arises during manufacturing, for example, through layering in additive manufacturing or through processing the material in subtractive manufacturing processes. Such seams can serve as functional connecting elements or be integrated into the design or surface texture.

[0073] The choice of shape influences the overall aesthetic of the picture frame and offers flexible design options. Regardless of the chosen shape, the image can still be precisely adapted to the surface contour of the frame.

[0074] The advantage of this design lies in the fact that the combination of individually selectable frame shapes and precisely integrated seams significantly expands the decorative and functional design possibilities. The seams can be deliberately accentuated to convey a handcrafted character, or they can be designed to be virtually invisible. At the same time, the geometric integrity of the motif is preserved, ensuring that letters, numbers, or graphic patterns appear undistorted on the surface. This results in a high-quality, visually appealing, and technically flawless picture frame.

[0075] In a further preferred embodiment, the shape of the strip and the back panel are essentially identical to each other, wherein preferably the shape of the image is essentially identical to the shape of the strip and the back panel.

[0076] This allows for a precise fit between the front and back of the picture frame, so that the picture is held securely between the strip and the back panel without any gaps or offsets.

[0077] By ensuring that the shape of the picture matches the shape of the frame and the backing board, the picture is optimally framed and its edges align perfectly with the frame's edges. This precise alignment not only secures the picture but also contributes to aesthetic harmony, as the visible contours of the frame, backing board, and picture are perfectly aligned.

[0078] Another advantage is that the image on the frame can be displayed without distortion, regardless of the frame's curvature or shape. Because the frame and backing board are geometrically aligned, the image can be optimally positioned along the frame's surface contour, resulting in a precise, harmonious, and high-quality visual effect for the picture frame. This identical design also simplifies manufacturing, especially with additive or subtractive processes, as shape and image data can be applied consistently to both the frame and backing board.

[0079] In a further preferred embodiment, the strip is connected to the back wall by means of a detachable connecting element for framing the picture, wherein the detachable connecting element preferably comprises a screw.

[0080] A detachable fastener, in this context, refers to a component that creates a secure but removable connection between the strip and the back panel. This allows the picture to be held securely between the strip and the back panel, while simultaneously enabling easy replacement or removal of the picture.

[0081] Preferably, the releasable fastener includes a screw. The screw serves to press the strip firmly against the back panel and hold the picture in position. At the same time, it allows for easy disassembly, so that the picture can be changed without damaging the strip or the back panel.

[0082] The advantage of this design lies in the combination of stability and flexibility. The image is reliably fixed, while the user retains access to it at any time for replacement or cleaning. Furthermore, the application of the motif to the strip, which follows the surface contour, can be precisely achieved regardless of the fastening technique. The screws or other removable fasteners do not compromise the geometric integrity or the aesthetic effect of the motif, ensuring that the decorative elements remain harmoniously and undistortedly displayed on the strip.

[0083] In another preferred embodiment, the strip and the back panel are connected to each other by means of a hinge and / or the picture frame has a stand and / or a hanger and / or the picture frame has a glass pane that is positioned between the strip and the picture.

[0084] A hinge allows the frame to move relative to the back panel, making inserting, removing, or changing the picture particularly convenient. Alternatively or additionally, the picture frame can have a stand and / or a hanger, allowing it to be placed on a surface or mounted on a wall. These features increase flexibility and enable different ways of displaying the picture.

[0085] Furthermore, the picture frame can include a pane of glass positioned between the frame and the picture. The glass pane protects the picture from dust, moisture, mechanical stress, and other external influences without impairing the visibility or visual impact of the picture.

[0086] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a length and / or width of 3 - 150 cm, preferably 5 - 50 cm and / or a height of 1 - 8 cm, preferably 2 - 6 cm.

[0087] These dimensions highlight the device's versatility in terms of size and allow for adaptation to different display sizes or design requirements. The specified length, width, and height ranges allow the device to be designed, for example, as a picture frame, both compact for small pictures and large-format for decorative or functional applications.

[0088] Another advantage is that the geometric parameters of the device can be taken into account in the digital planning of additive or subtractive manufacturing. Designs can thus be precisely adapted to the actual surface and dimensions of the device.

[0089] In another preferred embodiment, the device is essentially flat, cylindrical or conical in shape.

[0090] Essentially flat means that the device has a predominantly flat base, as is the case, for example, with classic picture frames, panels, or flat boards. A cylindrical design describes a device with a circular base and a uniformly curved side, as is found, for example, in vases, pipes, or cylindrical containers. Conical means that the device has a shape whose cross-section transitions from a smaller to a larger area and has a conical shape, as is common with funnels, decorative objects, or certain vessels.

[0091] These variable basic shapes allow for flexible adaptation of the device to different functional and design requirements. The adaptation of the motif to the surface contour according to the invention can be implemented independently of the chosen shape, so that motifs are displayed without distortion even on curved or inclined surfaces. In this way, the aesthetic effect of the motif is preserved, and decorative, informative, or functional elements can be precisely applied along the actual surface of the device. The combination of different basic shapes with the possibility of generating motifs additively or subtractively enables a particularly versatile and high-quality design of the device.

[0092] In a further preferred embodiment, the device comprises a plastic which is preferably selected from a group comprising PLA (polylactic acid), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer), PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol modified), nylon (polyamide), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate copolymer), PC (polycarbonate), PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0093] The choice of this plastic allows for flexible adaptation to different requirements regarding the stability, surface quality, processability, and durability of the device. PLA is particularly suitable for simple additive manufacturing with good detail resolution, while materials such as ABS, ASA, or PC offer higher impact resistance and weather resistance. TPU enables the elastic design of the device or individual components, while PEEK can be used for particularly heavy-duty and temperature-resistant applications. PVA can also serve as a water-soluble support material in additive manufacturing processes.

[0094] The design, created additively or subtractively, can be precisely adapted to the surface contour of the device, regardless of the type of plastic used. At the same time, the material selection can be tailored to the specific requirements of the application, such as optical quality, feel, stability, or resistance to external influences, resulting in a high-quality and durable device.

[0095] In another aspect, the invention relates to a computer program product for creating a device according to the above description, comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, cause it to perform the following: - Selection of a shape for the device, - Selection of a motif to be applied to a surface of the device, - Determining a line that the motif should follow on the surface.

[0096] The average professional recognizes that features, definitions, explanations, and technical effects described for the device apply equally to the computer program product, and vice versa.

[0097] The first step involves selecting a shape for the device. In this step, the user can use the computer program, specifically the software or app, to decide on the basic shape of the device, for example, flat, cylindrical, conical, or a specially designed strip for a picture frame. Geometric parameters such as length, width, height, or diameter can be digitally defined, ensuring that subsequent processing is precisely tailored to the chosen shape.

[0098] Next, the user selects a design to be applied to the surface of the device. They can choose from predefined patterns, lettering, numbers, letters, and / or images, or import their own designs. The software then prepares the design so that it can later be applied additively or subtractively to the actual surface.

[0099] Furthermore, a line is defined that the motif should follow on the surface. This line determines how the motif is adapted to the surface's contour. For curved or non-planar surfaces, the computer program calculates the precise path of the motif so that it is displayed without distortion along the surface. This can be achieved through digital approximations using a substitute device and offset surfaces, similar to integration in mathematics, thereby accurately replicating the surface's contour.

[0100] The computer program can be executed on a conventional computer, such as a desktop PC or laptop, as well as on mobile devices like smartphones or tablets with the appropriate apps installed. This allows for flexible and user-friendly design of the device. Advantages include the precise adaptation of the design to the actual surface contour, the ability to digitally combine different shapes, and the preparation of the data for additive or subtractive manufacturing processes, ensuring that the design can be implemented without distortion and in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

Claims

[1] Device comprising a surface which is at least partially non-planar, wherein a motif is attached to the surface which follows the non-planar surface and the motif was created additively or subtractively. [2] Device according to the previous claim, wherein a virtual substitute device with a smooth surface is provided which approximates the surface of the device and the motif is created additively or subtractively using offset surfaces. [3] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motif follows a straight or curved line along the surface. [4] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motif is present as a separate body on the surface or as a cut in the surface of the device. [5] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motif is provided as one or more protrusions and / or indentations on the surface. [6] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motif comprises one or more inscriptions and / or images. [7] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the surface comprises one or more indentations and / or protrusions which preferably form an image. [8] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the surface is at least partially, preferably completely, convex and / or concave. [9] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motif comprises numbers and / or letters having substantially the same height or depth. [10] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device is a picture frame, a vase, a statue, a housing, a machine part, a tool, a drinking bottle, a package, a spectacle frame, jewelry, a wall decoration, a candle holder, a mask, a casing or a tube. [11] Device according to claim 10, wherein the device is a picture frame comprising a picture frame - a strip and - a back panel, so that the picture in the picture frame can be enclosed between the strip and the back panel by connecting the strip to the back panel. [12] Device according to claim 11, wherein the motif comprises numbers, uppercase letters and / or lowercase letters, wherein the numbers, uppercase letters or the lowercase letters are at a substantially equal distance from a contour of the bar. [13] Device according to claim 11, wherein the strip has a seam, preferably on the surface formed by the additive manufacturing process and / or a shape of the strip and / or the back panel is selected from a group comprising a circular shape, heart shape, star shape, wave shape, two-, three-, four-, five-, six-, seven-, eight-, nine-, and decagonal shape. [14] Device according to claim 11, where the shape of the strip and the back panel are essentially identical to each other, wherein preferably one form of the image is essentially identical to the form of the strip and the back panel. [15] Device according to claim 11, wherein the strip is connected to the back wall by means of a detachable connecting means for framing the picture, wherein the detachable connecting means preferably comprises a screw. [16] Device according to claim 11, wherein the strip and the back panel are connected to each other by means of a hinge and / or the picture frame has a stand and / or a hanger and / or the picture frame has a glass pane positioned between the strip and the picture. [17] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device has a length and / or width of 3 - 150 cm, preferably 5 - 50 cm and / or one of the picture frames has a height of 1 - 8 cm, preferably 2 - 6 cm. [18] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device is essentially flat, cylindrical or conical in shape. [19] Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a plastic which is preferably selected from the group comprising PLA (polylactic acid), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer), PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol modified), nylon (polyamide), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate copolymer), PC (polycarbonate), PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). [20] Computer program product for creating a device according to one or more of the preceding claims comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, cause it to execute the following: - Selection of a shape for the device, - Selection of a motif to be applied to a surface of the device, - Determining a line that the motif should follow on the surface.