Information processing method, object manufacturing method, information processing apparatus, and program

Abstract

To accurately determine design information for an object.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus performs: a first estimation step for estimating deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step for estimating performance when the object is used; and a determination step for determining design information of the object based on the first estimation result from the first estimation step and the second estimation result from the second estimation step.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing method, an object manufacturing method, an information processing device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known techniques for estimating deformation of an object, such as a molded object. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an additive manufacturing method in which design data for a molded part is modified based on deformation parameters extracted from the results of thermal stress analysis. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] However, in the conventional techniques, there is room for improvement in the accuracy of correcting design data. For example, Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration deformation or performance of the shaped object when it is used.

[0004] An object of one embodiment of the present invention is to determine design information of an object with high accuracy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In an information processing method that is one embodiment of the present invention, an information processing device executes a first estimation step of estimating deformation that occurs when manufacturing an object that includes at least a unit structure, a second estimation step of estimating performance of the object when it is used, and a determination step of determining design information for the object based on the first estimation result from the first estimation step and the second estimation result from the second estimation step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, design information of an object can be determined with high accuracy. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of a molding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of stress distribution during sintering of an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of stress distribution during use of an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a grating structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of a periodic surface structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing method according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of stress distribution according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an object according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a performance evaluation result according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, components having the same functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0009] [First embodiment] One embodiment of the present invention is an information processing system that determines information about an object to be manufactured using a manufacturing system. The information about the object may be, for example, design information that indicates a design of the object. The design information may include, for example, information that indicates the shape, material, and structure of the object. The design information may also include design information about a substructure that is a part of the object.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system 1000 according to this embodiment includes a manufacturing system 1, an information processing device 2, and a cloud system 3. The manufacturing system 1, the information processing device 2, and the cloud system 3 are each connected to a communication network N. The communication network N is configured so that the connected devices can communicate with each other.

[0011] The communication network N is constructed by a network using wired communication such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN). The communication network N may include not only wired communication but also wireless communication such as a wireless LAN or short-range wireless communication, or a network using mobile communication such as WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), or 5G (5th Generation).

[0012] The manufacturing system 1 is a system that manufactures an object. Various systems can be used as the manufacturing system 1. For example, the manufacturing system 1 may be a molding system, a casting system, or a rolling system. Examples of molding systems that can be used include a binder jetting (BJ) method, a high speed sintering (HSS) method, a selective laser sintering (SLS) method or a selective laser melting (SLM) method, a material jetting (MJ) method, and a stereolithography apparatus (SLA) method. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the manufacturing system 1 is a molding system based on the BJ method.

[0013] The manufacturing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a molding apparatus 100, a drying apparatus 110, an excess powder removing apparatus 120, and a sintering apparatus 130. The molding apparatus 100 molds a molded object, which is an example of an object. The drying apparatus 110 dries the molded object molded by the molding apparatus 100. The excess powder removing apparatus 120 removes excess powder adhering to the molded object dried by the drying apparatus 110. The sintering apparatus 130 sinters the molded object from which excess powder has been removed. The sintering apparatus 130 may degrease the molded object before sintering it.

[0014] The manufacturing system 1 may be configured as four devices, each with a different housing for the modeling apparatus 100, drying apparatus 110, excess powder removal apparatus 120, and sintering apparatus 130. The manufacturing system 1 may also be configured as a single device that integrates the modeling apparatus 100, drying apparatus 110, excess powder removal apparatus 120, and sintering apparatus 130. The manufacturing system 1 may incorporate at least some of the functions of the drying apparatus 110 or the excess powder removal apparatus 120 into the modeling apparatus 100 or the sintering apparatus 130. The manufacturing system 1 may omit at least some of the functions of the drying apparatus 110 or the excess powder removal apparatus 120, as appropriate.

[0015] The information processing device 2 is an information processing device that generates design data of an object. Examples of the information processing device 2 are computers such as personal computers, workstations, and servers. The information processing device 2 accepts input of shape data of an object and outputs design data that the manufacturing system 1 uses to manufacture the object. The design data output from the information processing device 2 is input to the manufacturing system 1. The manufacturing system 1 manufactures the object based on the design data.

[0016] The design data is electronic data including design information that indicates the design of an object. The shape data is electronic data that indicates the shape of an object. The shape data may be design data that was previously generated. In other words, the information processing device 2 may modify design data that was previously generated.

[0017] The cloud system 3 is an information processing system that provides cloud services via the communication network N. The cloud system 3 may be realized by one or more information processing devices. An example of a cloud service is a cloud storage service or an application service. The cloud system 3 may provide some of the functions executed by the manufacturing system 1 or the information processing device 2 as a cloud service. If the manufacturing system 1 or the information processing device 2 executes all of the functions, the cloud system 3 may not be included in the information processing system 1000.

[0018] The overall configuration of the information processing system 1000 shown in FIG. 1 is one example, and various system configuration examples are possible depending on the application and purpose. For example, the information processing system 1000 may include one or more of the manufacturing system 1, the information processing device 2, and the cloud system 3. For example, the information processing device 2 may be realized by multiple computers, or may be realized as a cloud computing service. For example, the information processing device 2 may be built into any of the devices included in the manufacturing system 1. The division of devices or systems such as the manufacturing system 1, the information processing device 2, and the cloud system 3 shown in FIG. 1 is one example.

[0019] <Outline of the molding device> 2 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of a modeling apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the modeling apparatus 100 according to this embodiment includes a modeling unit 10 and an application unit 20.

[0020] The modeling unit 10 models a powder layer 111 containing powder 11. The application unit 20 applies a modeling liquid 21 to the powder layer 111 to form a modeling layer 112. The modeling device 100 stacks a plurality of modeling layers 112 to form a modeled object.

[0021] The powder 11 may contain at least aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The powder 11 may be at least one selected from aluminum, zinc, magnesium, and alloys thereof. The powder 11 may be a material other than a metal, such as ceramic.

[0022] The modeling section 10 includes a powder tank 12 and a lamination unit 13. The powder tank 12 includes a supply tank 121, a modeling tank 122, a supply stage 123, a modeling stage 124, and an excess powder tank 125. The powder tank 12 is box-shaped. The supply tank 121, the modeling tank 122, and the excess powder tank 125 have open tops. The lamination unit 13 includes a flat section 131 and a powder removal section 132.

[0023] The supply tank 121 is a tank that supplies the powder 11 to the modeling tank 122. The supply tank 121 holds the powder 11 to be supplied to the modeling tank 122. The supply stage 123 is provided at the bottom of the supply tank 121. The supply stage 123 moves up and down in the vertical direction (Z direction). The side of the supply stage 123 is arranged so as to contact the inner surface of the supply tank 121.

[0024] The manufacturing tank 122 receives a supply of powder 11 required for manufacturing from the supply tank 121. In the supply tank 121, a powder layer 111 and a manufacturing layer 112 are formed. Furthermore, in the manufacturing tank 122, a plurality of manufacturing layers 112 are stacked to manufacture a manufactured object. The manufacturing stage 124 is provided at the bottom of the manufacturing tank 122. The manufacturing stage 124 moves up and down in the vertical direction (Z direction). The side of the manufacturing stage 124 is arranged so as to contact the inner surface of the manufacturing tank 122. The top surfaces of the supply stage 123 and the manufacturing stage 124 are kept horizontal.

[0025] The surplus powder tank 125 is a tank that holds surplus powder 11 among the powder 11 that has been flattened by the flat portion 131 when forming the powder layer 111. A means for sucking the powder 11 may be provided at the bottom of the surplus powder tank 125, or a means for removing the surplus powder tank 125 may be provided. The surplus powder tank 125 is disposed next to the modeling tank 122. The surplus powder 11 held in the surplus powder tank 125 may be returned to the supply tank 121.

[0026] The excess powder 11 may be returned to the supply tank 121 via the powder supply device. The powder supply device may be disposed above the supply tank 121. The powder supply device may supply the excess powder 11 to the supply tank 121 before the start of modeling or when the amount of powder 11 in the supply tank 121 has decreased. Although the powder tank 12 has three tanks, namely the supply tank 121, the modeling tank 122, and the excess powder tank 125, it may also have only the modeling tank 122 and the excess powder tank 125, and supply the excess powder 11 to the modeling tank 122 via the powder supply device. Examples of a method for the powder supply device to transport the excess powder 11 from the excess powder tank 125 to the supply tank 121 include a screw conveyor system using a screw and a pneumatic transport system using air.

[0027] The flattening unit 131 flattens the modeling layer 112 or the powder layer 111. The flattening unit 131 flattens the modeling layer 112 by rotating the recoater as a rotating body. The flattening unit 131 supplies the powder 11 from the supply stage 123 of the supply tank 121 to the modeling tank 122 by rotating. The flattening unit 131 moves back and forth in the Y direction along the stage surface of the modeling stage 124. The stage surface is the surface on which the powder 11 is loaded. As a result, the powder layer 111 is formed on the modeling layer 112.

[0028] More specifically, the flat portion 131 moves horizontally from the outside of the supply tank 121, passing above the supply tank 121 and the modeling tank 122. As a result, the powder 11 in the supply tank 121 is transferred and supplied onto the modeling tank 122. Furthermore, the flat portion 131 flattens the powder 11 as it passes above the modeling tank 122. As a result, a powder layer 111 is formed in the modeling tank 122. The flat portion 131 is a member that is longer than the inner dimensions of the modeling tank 122 and the supply tank 121. Note that the flat portion 131 may be a blade or a bar that serves as a plate-like member.

[0029] Powder removal part 132 removes powder adhering to flat part 131. Powder removal part 132 moves together with flat part 131 while being in contact with the circumferential surface of flat part 131.

[0030] The dispensing unit 20 includes a carriage 211 and a head 212. The head 212 dispenses the modeling liquid 21 onto the powder layer 111. The head 212 is, for example, an inkjet head, and is provided with a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged. The head 212 may form a colored modeled object by dispensing a cyan modeling liquid, a magenta modeling liquid, a yellow modeling liquid, and a black modeling liquid. The head 212 may form a monochromatic modeled object by dispensing a single color modeling liquid from each of a plurality of nozzles. The modeling liquid may be dispensed using an inkjet method or a dispenser method.

[0031] At least one head 212 is mounted on a carriage 211, and is reciprocated in the X direction (main scanning), Y direction (sub-scanning), and Z direction by a motor, a guide member, and the like.

[0032] <Hardware configuration of information processing device> 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The information processing device 2 according to this embodiment may be realized by a computer.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, the computer 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, a RAM 503, a HD (Hard Disk) 504, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) controller 505, a display 506, an external device connection I / F (Interface) 508, a network I / F 509, a bus line 510, a keyboard 511, a pointing device 512, a DVD-RW (Digital Versatile Disk Rewritable) drive 514, and a media I / F 516.

[0034] Of these, the CPU 501 controls the overall operation of the computer 500. The ROM 502 stores programs used to drive the CPU 501, such as the IPL. The RAM 503 is used as a work area for the CPU 501. The HD 504 stores various data such as programs. The HDD controller 505 controls the reading and writing of various data from and to the HD 504 under the control of the CPU 501.

[0035] The display 506 displays various types of information such as a cursor, menus, windows, characters, or images. The external device connection I / F 508 is an interface for connecting various types of external devices. In this case, the external devices are, for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories, printers, etc. The network I / F 509 is an interface for data communication using the communication network N. The bus line 510 is an address bus, data bus, etc. for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 501.

[0036] The keyboard 511 is a type of input means having multiple keys for inputting characters, numbers, various instructions, etc. The pointing device 512 is a type of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, moving a cursor, etc. The DVD-RW drive 514 controls reading and writing of various data from a DVD-RW 513, which is an example of a removable recording medium. Note that this is not limited to a DVD-RW, and may be a DVD-R, etc. The media I / F 516 controls reading and writing (storing) of data from a recording medium 515, such as a flash memory.

[0037] <Functional configuration of information processing device> 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment includes an input unit 201, a first estimation unit 202, a second estimation unit 203, a determination unit 204, a storage unit 205, a learning unit 206, and an output unit 207.

[0038] The input unit 201, the first estimation unit 202, the second estimation unit 203, the determination unit 204, the learning unit 206 and the output unit 207 are realized, for example, by a program expanded from the ROM 502 shown in FIG. 3 onto the RAM 503, which is executed by the CPU 501 and the network I / F 509.

[0039] The storage unit 205 is realized, for example, by using the HD 504 shown in Fig. 3. Reading or writing of data stored in the HD 504 is performed via an HDD controller 505, for example.

[0040] The input unit 201 accepts input of shape data indicating the shape of an object. The input unit 201 may accept input of shape data by reading shape data stored in a medium 515 via a media I / F 516. The input unit 201 may accept input of shape data by receiving shape data transmitted from an external information processing device via a network I / F 509. Note that "external" means not included in the information processing system 1000.

[0041] The object includes at least a unit structure. The unit structure is, for example, a lattice structure or a periodic surface structure. The object may also include a partial structure in which a plurality of unit structures are connected. The partial structure may have a plurality of different types of unit structures. The partial structure may also include a plurality of unit structures of the same type, but with different densities of each unit structure. Furthermore, the object may have a plurality of partial structures with different unit structures. The object may have a plurality of partial structures, including a partial structure in which unit structures are connected and a partial structure in which unit structures are not connected. Here, an example of an object will be described using Figure 5.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 shows an object including at least a unit structure. As objects including at least a unit structure, object 300 including a lattice structure, object 310 including a periodic curved surface structure, object 320 including a lattice structure with sparse and dense structures, and object 330 including a lattice structure with walls are shown. Objects 300, 310, 320, and 330 show cases where a wrench is used as an example, but the present invention can also be applied to other products. The following explanation will also be given of a case where a wrench is used, but the present invention can also be applied to other products.

[0043] The object 300 includes a lattice structure as a unit structure. The object 300 includes a substructure in which a plurality of lattice structures are connected. An example of a lattice structure is a lattice structure. A lattice structure is a three-dimensional shape in which branched lattices are periodically arranged.

[0044] The object 310 includes a periodic surface structure as a unit structure. The object 310 includes a substructure in which a plurality of unit structures are connected. An example of a periodic surface structure is a gyroid structure. A gyroid structure is a periodic minimal surface that can be connected infinitely in three different directions and divides space into two regions.

[0045] The object 320 includes a lattice structure as a unit structure. The object 320 includes a substructure in which a plurality of lattice structures are connected. Unlike the object 300, the object 320 includes a plurality of substructures with different lattice structure densities. The object 320 has a substructure 321 with a high density and a substructure 322 with a low density. The density is the mass per unit volume. For example, the mass per unit volume can be varied by changing at least one of the number of unit structures per unit volume and the thickness of each unit structure.

[0046] Object 330 includes a lattice structure as a unit structure. Object 320 includes a partial structure in which a plurality of lattice structures are connected. Unlike objects 300 and 320, object 330 includes a partial structure in which unit structures are not connected. Object 330 has a partial structure 331 in which a plurality of unit structures are connected, and a partial structure 332 in which unit structures are not connected. As an example, partial structure 332 in which unit structures are not connected may be a wall surface that forms the outer edge of object 330. The partial structure in which unit structures are not connected is not limited to a wall surface of object 330, and may be any part of the object.

[0047] Returning to FIG. 4 , the first estimation unit 202 estimates deformation during manufacturing of an object including at least unit structures. The first estimation unit 202 estimates deformation during manufacturing of the object based on shape data from the input unit 201. The first estimation unit 202 may estimate deformation during manufacturing by acquiring a stress distribution during sintering based on the shape data. The first estimation unit 202 may estimate deformation during manufacturing by acquiring a stress distribution indicating the maximum principal stress during sintering. The first estimation unit 202 may estimate deformation during manufacturing of the object based on a trained model generated by the training unit 206.

[0048] The stress distribution during sintering may be a stress distribution when the powder contains aluminum or an aluminum alloy as the material of the object, or may be a stress distribution in a temperature range where at least a portion of the aluminum is in a liquid phase.

[0049] The stress distribution during sintering can be obtained using simulation software capable of sintering simulation. As an example, the stress distribution during sintering can be calculated by executing a sintering simulation in which the material of the object and the sintering temperature are specified based on the shape data. The stress distribution when the powder contains aluminum or an aluminum alloy as the material of the object can be calculated by setting aluminum or an aluminum alloy as the material of the object in the sintering simulation. The stress distribution in a temperature range in which at least a portion of the aluminum is in a liquid phase can be calculated by setting the sintering temperature in the sintering simulation to a temperature range in which at least a portion of the aluminum is in a liquid phase.

[0050] The first estimation unit 202 may acquire the stress distribution during sintering by performing a sintering simulation using simulation software pre-installed in the information processing device 2. The first estimation unit 202 may acquire the stress distribution during sintering as a result of a sintering simulation executed in an external device or system such as the cloud system 3. Here, the stress distribution during sintering of an object will be described with reference to FIG. 6 .

[0051] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of stress distribution during sintering of an object according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 6, the stress distribution during sintering of object 400 is data showing the distribution of maximum principal stress on the surface of the object during sintering. The stress distribution shown in Fig. 6 shows regions 401, 402, and 403 where the maximum principal stress is particularly high. The regions where the maximum principal stress is particularly high are regions where high tensile stress occurs during sintering and where large deformation occurs during sintering.

[0052] Returning to FIG. 4 , the second estimation unit 203 estimates the performance of an object when in use. The second estimation unit 203 receives shape data from the input unit 201. The second estimation unit 203 may execute a structural analysis simulation based on the shape data to obtain stress distribution during use. The second estimation unit 203 may estimate the performance during use by obtaining the stress distribution during use. The second estimation unit 203 may estimate the performance of an object when in use based on a trained model generated by the training unit 206.

[0053] The performance during use may be selected arbitrarily depending on the application of the object. For example, the performance during use may include deformation of the object against a load during use, or, in the case of an object through which a fluid passes, pressure loss or thermal resistance. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which deformation of an object is estimated as the performance during use.

[0054] The stress distribution during use can be calculated using simulation software capable of structural analysis simulation. For example, the stress distribution during use can be calculated in a structural analysis simulation by providing the loads and constraints expected when the object is used based on the shape data.

[0055] The second estimation unit 203 may acquire the stress distribution during use by performing a structural analysis simulation using simulation software pre-installed in the information processing device 2. The first estimation unit 202 may acquire the stress distribution during use as a result of a structural analysis simulation executed in an external device or system such as the cloud system 3. Here, the stress distribution during use of an object will be described with reference to FIG. 7 .

[0056] 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating an example of stress distribution during use of an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A shows the load position of an object 410, and FIG. 7B shows the stress distribution during use of an object 420. Objects 410 and 420 are shown using a wrench as an example. Object 410 also includes bore portions 411 and 412 that fit into a nut or bolt, and a grip portion 413 that grips to apply a rotational force. In a structural analysis simulation, by applying loads to bore portions 411 and 412 and grip portion 413, the stress distribution during use of object 410 can be calculated.

[0057] The stress distribution during use is data showing the distribution of maximum principal stress on the surface of an object during use. The stress distribution shown in Figure 7(b) shows an area 421 where the maximum principal stress is particularly high. This area where high tensile stress occurs during use, and large deformation occurs during use.

[0058] The sintering simulation and the structural analysis simulation may be performed by the same simulation software capable of performing a plurality of types of simulations, or may be performed by different simulation software.

[0059] Returning to Fig. 4, the determination unit 204 determines design information of the object based on the first estimation result by the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimation result by the second estimating unit 203. The design information may include the thickness or density of the unit structure.

[0060] As an example, the determination unit 204 may first determine a region of the object that is likely to deform during manufacture based on the first estimation result. Next, the determination unit 204 may determine a region of the object that is likely to deform during use based on the second estimation result. The determination unit 204 may then determine the thickness or density of the unit structure so as to increase the strength of the region that is likely to deform during manufacture or use of the object. Here, an example of determining the thickness or density of a lattice structure or a periodic surface structure as a unit structure will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0061] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a lattice structure according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which an example of a lattice structure having different densities or thicknesses is shown.

[0062] Lattice structures 341, 342, and 343 are lattice structures with low density, medium density, and high density, respectively. Increasing the density of the lattice structure increases the mass per unit volume, improving the strength of the lattice structure.

[0063] Lattice structures 344 and 345 are lattice structures obtained by reducing the thickness of a predetermined member included in the lattice structure and by increasing the thickness, respectively. Increasing the thickness of a predetermined member included in the lattice structure improves the strength of the lattice structure. By changing the thickness or density of the lattice structure as design information based on the first estimation result by the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimation result by the second estimating unit 203, it is possible to accurately determine the design information of the object.

[0064] 9 is a diagram showing an example of a periodic surface structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which an example of a periodic surface structure having different densities or thicknesses is shown.

[0065] The periodic surface structures 351, 352, and 353 are periodic surface structures with low density, medium density, and high density, respectively. Increasing the density of the periodic surface structure increases the mass per unit volume, improving the strength of the periodic surface structure.

[0066] The periodic surface structures 354 and 355 are periodic surface structures obtained by reducing the thickness of a predetermined member included in the lattice structure and by increasing the thickness, respectively. Increasing the thickness of a predetermined member included in the periodic surface structure improves the strength of the periodic surface structure. By changing the thickness or density of the unit structures included in the periodic surface structure as design information based on the first estimation result by the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimation result by the second estimating unit 203, it is possible to accurately determine the design information of the object.

[0067] 4, the storage unit 205 stores learning data used for learning by the learning unit 206. The learning data includes shape data received by the input unit 201, a first estimation result by the first estimating unit 202, and a second estimation result by the second estimating unit 203.

[0068] The learning unit 206 generates a trained model based on the training data read out from the storage unit 205. The learning unit 206 may generate a trained model that estimates deformation during manufacturing of an object by learning the relationship between the shape of the object included in the training data and the deformation during manufacturing of the object. The learning unit 206 may generate a trained model that estimates performance during use of an object by learning the relationship between the shape of the object included in the training data and the performance during use of the object.

[0069] The learning algorithm may be selected arbitrarily, and examples of the learning algorithm that can be applied include deep learning using a neural network, unsupervised learning, supervised learning, and reinforcement learning.

[0070] The output unit 207 outputs design data of the object. The design data includes design information of the unit structure determined by the determination unit 204. The design data output from the output unit 207 is input to the manufacturing system 1. The design data may include, for example, shape data. The manufacturing system 1 manufactures the object based on the input design data.

[0071] <Information processing method> Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The information processing method is executed by an information processing device 2. As shown in Fig. 10, the information processing method according to this embodiment includes an input step S1, a first estimation step S2, a second estimation step S3, a determination step S4, and an output step S5.

[0072] In the input step S1, the input unit 201 of the information processing device 2 receives input of shape data indicating the shape of an object. The input unit 201 sends the shape data to the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimating unit 203.

[0073] In the first estimation step S2, the first estimation unit 202 of the information processing device 2 estimates deformation that occurs when an object including at least a unit structure is manufactured. First, the first estimation unit 202 receives shape data from the input unit 201. Next, the first estimation unit 202 estimates deformation that occurs when the object is manufactured based on the shape data. As an example, the first estimation unit 202 may perform a sintering simulation based on the shape data to obtain stress distribution during sintering. The first estimation unit 202 sends a first estimation result indicating an estimated result of deformation during manufacturing to the determination unit 204. As an example, the first estimation result may be stress distribution during sintering.

[0074] In the second estimation step S3, the second estimation unit 203 of the information processing device 2 estimates the performance of the object when it is in use. First, the second estimation unit 203 receives shape data from the input unit 201. Next, the second estimation unit 203 estimates the performance of the object when it is in use based on the shape data. As an example, the second estimation unit 203 may execute a structural analysis simulation based on the shape data to obtain the stress distribution when it is in use. The second estimation unit 203 sends a second estimation result indicating the estimated result of the performance when it is in use to the determination unit 204. As an example, the second estimation result may be the stress distribution when it is in use.

[0075] In the determination step S4, the determination unit 204 of the information processing device 2 determines design information of the substructure based on the first estimation result from the first estimating step S2 and the second estimation result from the second estimating step S3. First, the determination unit 204 receives the first estimation result from the first estimating unit 202. The determination unit 204 also receives the second estimation result from the second estimating unit 203. Next, the determination unit 204 determines design information of the object based on the first estimation result and the second estimation result.

[0076] Specifically, the determination unit 204 first determines an area of ​​the object that is likely to deform during sintering based on the stress distribution during sintering. Next, the determination unit 204 determines an area that is likely to deform during use based on the stress distribution during use. Then, based on the determined area, the determination unit 204 determines the thickness or density of the unit structures included in the lattice structure or periodic surface structure as design information.

[0077] As an example, the determination unit 204 increases the thickness or density of unit structures included in the region where stress is concentrated. At this time, the determination unit 204 may decrease the thickness or density of unit structures not included in the region where stress is concentrated. This improves the strength of regions that are prone to deformation during manufacturing or use. The determination unit 204 sends design information of the determined unit structures to the determination unit 204.

[0078] In the output step S5, the output unit 207 of the information processing device 2 receives the design information of the substructure from the determination unit 204. Next, the output unit 207 outputs design data including the design information of the unit structure determined in the determination step S4. The design data may be, for example, shape data. The design data output from the output unit 207 is input to the manufacturing system 1. The manufacturing system 1 manufactures an object based on the input design data.

[0079] <Manufacturing method> Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The manufacturing method is executed by a manufacturing system 1. As shown in Fig. 11, the manufacturing method includes a modeling process S11, a drying process S12, an excess powder removing process S13, a degreasing process S14, and a sintering process S15.

[0080] In the modeling step S11, the modeling apparatus 100 of the manufacturing system 1 models an object based on the design data generated by the information processing device 2. The modeling step S11 includes a forming step S11-1, an applying step S11-2, and a laminating step S11-3.

[0081] In the forming step S11-1, the modeling apparatus 100 forms a powder layer containing powder. In the applying step S11-2, the modeling apparatus 100 applies a modeling liquid to the powder layer. This forms a modeling layer. In the stacking step S11-3, the modeling apparatus 100 repeats the forming step S11-1 and the applying step S11-2. This stacks multiple modeling layers, and a modeled object, which is an example of an object, is formed.

[0082] In the drying step S12, the drying device 110 of the manufacturing system 1 dries the object formed in the modeling step S11. The drying device 110 heats the object, thereby vaporizing and removing liquid components such as the solvent remaining in the object.

[0083] In the excess powder removing step S13, the excess powder removing device 120 of the manufacturing system 1 removes excess powder adhering to the shaped object.

[0084] In the degreasing step S14, the sintering device 130 of the manufacturing system 1 degreases the molded object. The sintering device 130 heats the object in an atmosphere containing an inert gas. This removes the resin in the molded object. This forms a degreased body.

[0085] In the sintering step S15, the sintering device 130 of the manufacturing system 1 sinters the shaped body, thereby obtaining a sintered body in which the degreased body is sintered.

[0086] <Effects of the first embodiment> The information processing device 2 according to the first embodiment determines design information for an object based on a first estimation result that estimates deformation during manufacturing of an object including at least unit structures, and a second estimation result that estimates performance when the object is in use. According to this embodiment, since it is possible to take into account both deformation during manufacturing of the object and performance when the object is in use, it is possible to accurately determine design information for the object.

[0087] The unit structure may include a lattice structure or a periodic curved surface structure. The design information may include a thickness or density of the unit structure. According to this embodiment, it is possible to accurately determine design information for an object including a lattice structure or a periodic curved surface structure.

[0088] The information processing device 2 may estimate deformation during manufacturing of the object based on the stress distribution during sintering. According to this embodiment, it is possible to design the object taking deformation during sintering into consideration.

[0089] The information processing device 2 may estimate deformation during manufacturing of an object based on the maximum principal stress shown in the stress distribution during sintering. Because tensile force is mainly applied during sintering, reasonable results can be obtained by considering only the maximum principal stress. According to this embodiment, by considering only the maximum principal stress, calculations for estimating deformation during manufacturing can be simplified.

[0090] The stress distribution during sintering may be the stress distribution when the material of the object contains aluminum or an aluminum alloy as powder. Aluminum is difficult to sinter because it tends to deform significantly during sintering. According to this embodiment, the deformation during sintering of an object containing aluminum or an aluminum alloy, which is difficult to sinter, can be taken into consideration when designing.

[0091] The stress distribution during sintering may be the stress distribution in a temperature range where at least a portion of the aluminum is in a liquid phase. Because the temperature is not constant during sintering, the physical properties change from moment to moment. At high temperatures, a liquid phase forms, and when the liquid phase forms, shrinkage progresses particularly rapidly, resulting in significant deformation. According to this embodiment, the design can take into account deformation in the temperature range where the liquid phase forms, where deformation is likely to occur.

[0092] The information processing device 2 may estimate the performance of the object during use based on the stress distribution during use. According to this embodiment, the object can be designed taking into account deformation during use.

[0093] [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which design information for an object was determined based on both the estimated results of deformation during manufacture of the object and the estimated results of performance during use of the object. In the second embodiment, a configuration will be described in which design information for an object is first determined based on the estimated results of deformation during manufacture of the object, and then the design information for the object is again determined based on the estimated results of performance during use of the object.

[0094] In the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the contents that overlap with the description of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0095] <Information processing method> Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 12, the information processing method according to this embodiment includes an input step S21, a first estimation step S22, a first determination step S23, a first verification step S24, a second estimation step S25, a second determination step S26, a second verification step S27, and an output step S28.

[0096] In the input step S21, the input unit 201 of the information processing device 2 receives input of shape data indicating the shape of an object. The input unit 201 sends the shape data to the first estimating unit 202.

[0097] In a first estimation step S22, deformation occurring when an object including at least a unit structure is manufactured is estimated. First, the first estimation unit 202 of the information processing device 2 receives shape data from the input unit 201. Next, the first estimation unit 202 estimates deformation occurring when the object is manufactured based on the shape data. The first estimation unit 202 sends a first estimation result indicating the estimated result of deformation during manufacturing to the determination unit 204.

[0098] In a first determination step S23, the determination unit 204 of the information processing device 2 receives the first estimation result from the first estimating unit 202. Next, the determination unit 204 determines design information of the object based on the first estimation result in the first estimating step S22. The determination unit 204 sends the determined design information of the object to the first estimating unit 202.

[0099] In a first verification step S24, the first estimating unit 202 of the information processing device 2 receives design information of the object from the determining unit 204. Next, the first estimating unit 202 generates design data including the design information of the object determined in the first determining step S23. Subsequently, the first estimating unit 202 estimates deformation that will occur when the object is manufactured, based on the generated design data.

[0100] The first estimation unit 202 determines whether the design data is appropriate based on the estimation result of the deformation during manufacturing. As an example, the first estimation unit 202 determines whether the maximum value of the maximum principal stress is equal to or less than a first threshold value in the stress distribution during sintering acquired by the sintering simulation. The first threshold value may be set in advance to a value that has been experimentally confirmed to be within an allowable range of deformation during sintering. The first threshold value may also be set to a predetermined safety factor. If the maximum value of the maximum principal stress is equal to or less than the first threshold value, it can be verified whether the design is such that deformation during sintering is within an allowable range.

[0101] If it is determined that the design data is appropriate (YES), the first estimation unit 202 sends the design data to the second estimating unit 203 and proceeds to the second estimating step S25. On the other hand, if it is determined that the design data is inappropriate (NO), the first estimating unit 202 notifies the determining unit 204 that the design data is inappropriate, and returns the process to the first determining step S23.

[0102] In a second estimation step S25, the second estimation unit 203 of the information processing device 2 receives the design data from the first estimation unit 202. Next, the second estimation unit 203 estimates the performance of the object when in use based on the design data. The second estimation unit 203 sends a second estimation result indicating the estimated result of the performance when in use to the determination unit 204.

[0103] In a second determination step S26, the determination unit 204 of the information processing device 2 receives the second estimation result from the second estimating unit 203. Next, the determination unit 204 determines design information of the object based on the second estimation result in the second estimating step S25. The determination unit 204 sends the determined design information of the object to the second estimating unit 203.

[0104] In a second verification step S27, the second estimating unit 203 of the information processing device 2 receives design information of the object from the determining unit 204. Next, the second estimating unit 203 generates design data including the design information of the object determined in the second determining step S26. Subsequently, the second estimating unit 203 estimates the performance of the object when it is used, based on the generated design data.

[0105] The second estimation unit 203 determines whether the design data is appropriate based on the estimation result of the performance during use. As an example, the second estimation unit 203 determines whether the maximum value of the maximum principal stress is equal to or less than a second threshold value in the stress distribution during use obtained by a structural analysis simulation. The second threshold value may be set in advance to a value that has been experimentally confirmed to be within an allowable range of deformation during use. The second threshold value may be set to a predetermined safety factor. If the maximum value of the maximum principal stress is equal to or less than the second threshold value, it can be verified whether the design is such that deformation during use is within an allowable range.

[0106] If it is determined that the design data is appropriate (YES), the second estimating unit 203 sends the design data to the output unit 207 and proceeds to the output step S28. On the other hand, if it is determined that the design data is inappropriate (NO), the second estimating unit 203 notifies the determining unit 204 that the design data is inappropriate, and returns the process to the second determining step S26.

[0107] In an output step S28, the output unit 207 of the information processing device 2 receives the design information of the object from the determination unit 204. Next, the output unit 207 outputs design data including the design information of the object determined in the second determination step S26. The design data may include, for example, shape data. The design data output from the output unit 207 is input to the manufacturing system 1.

[0108] 12 shows an example in which a series of processes from the first estimating step S22 to the second verifying step S27 is performed once, but the series of processes from the first estimating step S22 to the second verifying step S27 may be repeatedly executed multiple times. As an example, if the second estimating unit 203 determines that the design data is appropriate in the second verifying step S27 (YES), the process may return to the first estimating step S22. The number of times the series of processes is repeated may be determined in advance. Alternatively, the series of processes may be repeated until the amount of change in the design information of the substructure becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0109] <Effects of the second embodiment> The information processing device 2 according to the second embodiment executes a series of processes, which are executed in the order of a first estimation process, a determination process, a second estimation process, and a determination process, one or more times. According to this embodiment, a design is first performed taking into account deformation during manufacturing of an object, and then a design is performed taking into account deformation during use of the object, so that design information for the object can be determined with high accuracy. Furthermore, the design can take into account deformation during use of the object while ensuring a design that addresses deformation during manufacturing of the object.

[0110] [Third embodiment] In the second embodiment, a configuration is described in which design information for an object is first determined based on the estimated results of deformation during manufacture of the object, and then the design information for the object is again determined based on the estimated results of performance during use of the object. In the third embodiment, a configuration is described in which design information for an object is first determined based on the estimated results of performance during use of the object, and then the design information for the object is again determined based on the estimated results of deformation during manufacture of the object.

[0111] In the third embodiment, differences from the second embodiment will be mainly described.

[0112] <Information processing method> Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 13, the information processing method according to this embodiment includes an input step S21, a second estimating step S25, a second determining step S26, a second verifying step S27, a first estimating step S22, a first determining step S23, a first verifying step S24, and an output step S28.

[0113] The information processing method of the third embodiment differs from the information processing method of the second embodiment in that the second estimation step S25 to the second verification step S27 are executed first, and then the first estimation step S22 to the first verification step S24 are executed.

[0114] 13 shows an example in which a series of processes from the second estimating step S25 to the first verification step S24 is performed once, but the series of processes from the second estimating step S25 to the first verification step S24 may be repeatedly executed multiple times. The method for repeating the series of processes may be the same as in the second embodiment. That is, if the first estimating unit 202 determines that the design data is appropriate in the first verification step S24 (YES), the process may return to the second estimating step S25.

[0115] <Effects of the third embodiment> The information processing device 2 according to the third embodiment executes a series of processes, which are executed in the order of the second estimation process, the determination process, the first estimation process, and the determination process, one or more times. According to this embodiment, it is possible to accurately determine the design information of an object. Furthermore, since a design is first performed taking into account deformation during use of the object, and then a design is performed taking into account deformation during manufacture of the object, it is possible to design taking into account deformation during manufacture of the object while ensuring a design that addresses deformation during use of the object.

[0116] [Fourth embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which design information for an object is determined based on both the estimated result of deformation during manufacture of the object and the estimated result of performance during use of the object. In the fourth embodiment, a configuration will be described in which design information for an object is determined based on a combined result of the estimated result of deformation during manufacture of the object and the estimated result of performance during use of the object.

[0117] In the fourth embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0118] <Information processing method> Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 14, the information processing method according to this embodiment includes an input step S31, a first estimation step S32, a second estimation step S33, an integration step S34, a determination step S35, a first verification step S36, a second verification step S37, and an output step S38.

[0119] In the input step S31, the input unit 201 of the information processing device 2 receives input of shape data indicating the shape of an object. The input unit 201 sends the shape data to the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimating unit 203.

[0120] In a first estimation step S32, the first estimation unit 202 of the information processing device 2 receives shape data from the input unit 201. Next, the first estimation unit 202 estimates deformation that occurs when the object is manufactured based on the shape data. The first estimation unit 202 sends a first estimation result indicating the estimated result of deformation that occurs during manufacturing to the determination unit 204.

[0121] In a second estimation step S33, the second estimation unit 203 of the information processing device 2 receives the shape data from the input unit 201. Next, the second estimation unit 203 estimates the performance of the object when in use based on the shape data. The second estimation unit 203 sends a second estimation result indicating the estimated result of the performance when in use to the determination unit 204.

[0122] In an integration step S34, the determination unit 204 of the information processing device 2 receives the first estimation result from the first estimation unit 202. The determination unit 204 also receives the second estimation result from the second estimation unit 203. Next, the determination unit 204 integrates the first estimation result and the second estimation result.

[0123] For example, the determination unit 204 may integrate the first estimation result and the second estimation result by adding the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. Adding the stress distributions may be, for example, a calculation to generate a distribution by adding stresses at the same position in the two stress distributions.

[0124] The determination unit 204 may normalize the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use and add them together. As an example, the determination unit 204 may normalize the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use within a range of 1 to 5 and add the normalized stress distributions together. The stress distribution after addition is a stress distribution normalized within a range of 1 to 10.

[0125] The determining unit 204 may perform a weighted addition of the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. The weights given to the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use may be set in advance. The weights are information that controls whether to place importance on the deformation during sintering or the performance during use.

[0126] As an example, if the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 1 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 1, the design will take into account deformation during sintering and deformation during use to the same extent. On the other hand, if the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 5 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 1, the design will place more importance on deformation during sintering than on deformation during use. Conversely, if the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 1 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 5, the design will place more importance on deformation during use than on deformation during sintering. Here, we will explain the stress distribution using Figure 15 and the weight of the stress distribution using Figure 16.

[0127] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of stress distribution according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 shows an as-sintering stress distribution 600, an in-use stress distribution 610, an integrated stress distribution 620, and an object 630. The as-sintering stress distribution 600 is a distribution obtained by normalizing the stress distribution of the object during sintering to a range between 1 and 5. The in-use stress distribution 610 is a distribution obtained by normalizing the stress distribution of the object during use to a range between 1 and 5. The integrated stress distribution 620 is a distribution obtained by adding the as-sintering stress distribution 600 and the in-use stress distribution 610 of the object.

[0128] The as-sintered stress distribution 600 shows high stress regions 601 and 602. The as-used stress distribution 610 shows high stress region 611. The integrated stress distribution 620 shows high stress region 621 and low stress region 622. The high stress region 621 is a high stress region common to both the as-sintered stress distribution 600 and the as-used stress distribution 610. The low stress region 622 is a low stress region common to both the as-sintered stress distribution 600 and the as-used stress distribution 610.

[0129] Object 630 is an object whose design information has been determined based on integrated stress distribution 620. Object 630 includes a high-density substructure 631 and a low-density substructure 632. Since integrated stress distribution 620 is a distribution obtained by adding the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use, it is possible to determine the area where stress is concentrated both during sintering and during use, and it is possible to accurately determine the design information of the object.

[0130] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of an object according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, which shows objects 651, 652, 653, 654, and 655 for which design information has been determined based on a distribution obtained by weighting and adding stress distributions with different weights.

[0131] Object 651 is an object when the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 5 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 1. Object 652 is an object when the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 3 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 1. Object 653 is an object when the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 1 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 1. Object 654 is an object when the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 1 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 3. Object 655 is an object when the weight of the stress distribution during sintering is set to 1 and the weight of the stress distribution during use is set to 5.

[0132] By changing the weight of the stress distribution during sintering and the weight of the stress distribution during use, it is possible to change the design information of the object between when it is sintered and when it is used, thereby enabling the design information of the object to be determined with high accuracy.

[0133] 14 , in the determination step S35, the determination unit 204 of the information processing device 2 determines design information of the object based on the integration result in the integration step S34. The determination unit 204 sends the determined design information of the object to the first estimating unit 202 and the second estimating unit 203.

[0134] Specifically, the determining unit 204 first determines an area where stress is concentrated (in other words, an area where deformation is likely to occur) based on the integration result, and then determines the thickness or density of the unit structure based on the distribution of the area where stress is concentrated.

[0135] In a first verification step S36, the first estimating unit 202 of the information processing device 2 receives design information of the object from the determining unit 204. Next, the first estimating unit 202 generates design data including the design information of the object determined in the determining step S35. Subsequently, the first estimating unit 202 estimates deformation that will occur when the object is manufactured, based on the generated design data.

[0136] The first estimation unit 202 determines whether the design data is appropriate based on the estimation result of deformation during manufacturing. If it is determined that the design data is appropriate (YES), the first estimation unit 202 sends the design data to the second estimation unit 203 and proceeds to the second verification step S37. On the other hand, if it is determined that the design data is inappropriate (NO), the first estimation unit 202 notifies the determination unit 204 that the design data is inappropriate, and returns the process to the determination step S35.

[0137] In a second verification step S37, the second estimating unit 203 of the information processing device 2 receives the design data from the first estimating unit 202. Next, the second estimating unit 203 estimates the performance of the object when it is used, based on the design data.

[0138] The second estimation unit 203 determines whether the design data is appropriate based on the estimation result of the performance during use. If it is determined that the design data is appropriate (YES), the second estimation unit 203 sends the design data to the output unit 207 and proceeds to the output step S38. On the other hand, if it is determined that the design data is inappropriate (NO), the second estimation unit 203 notifies the determination unit 204 that the design data is inappropriate and returns the process to the determination step S35.

[0139] In an output step S38, the output unit 207 of the information processing device 2 receives the design information of the object from the determination unit 204. Next, the output unit 207 outputs design data including the design information of the object determined in the determination step S35. The design data may include, for example, shape data. The design data output from the output unit 207 is input to the manufacturing system 1.

[0140] <Effects of the Fourth Embodiment> The information processing device 2 according to the fourth embodiment determines design information for a substructure based on the result of integrating the first estimation result and the second estimation result. The information processing device 2 may integrate the first estimation result and the second estimation result by adding the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. According to this embodiment, the design information for an object can be determined with high accuracy. Furthermore, since only one estimation result obtained by integrating the first estimation result and the second estimation result is used, the time required for design can be reduced.

[0141] The information processing device 2 may normalize and add the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. The information processing device 2 may also weight and add the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. According to this embodiment, it is possible to appropriately allocate and consider the deformation during the manufacture of an object and the performance of the object during use.

[0142] <Performance evaluation> Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a performance evaluation result according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, in which the sum of squares is shown as a result of calculating the amount of deformation during manufacturing and the amount of deformation during use for objects obtained under various conditions.

[0143] The conditions were: (1) a uniform lattice structure, (2) a lattice structure that takes into account only the sintering stage, (3) a lattice structure with a weight ratio of 5:1 between sintering and use, (4) a lattice structure with a weight ratio of 3:1 between sintering and use, (5) a lattice structure with a weight ratio of 1:1 between sintering and use, (6) a lattice structure with a weight ratio of 1:3 between sintering and use, (7) a lattice structure with a weight ratio of 1:5 between sintering and use, and (8) a lattice structure that takes into account only the use stage. (1) A uniform lattice structure is the standard condition for evaluation.

[0144] (1) A uniform lattice structure is a structure in which the density and thickness of the substructures are uniform. (2) A lattice structure that takes into account only the sintering process is a structure in which the density and thickness of the substructures are determined based on the stress distribution during sintering. (8) A lattice structure that takes into account only the use process is a structure in which the density and thickness of the substructures are determined based on the stress distribution during use. Therefore, structures (3) to (7) are examples corresponding to FIG. 16 of the fourth embodiment.

[0145] The amount of deformation during manufacturing and use was calculated by simulation. Figure 17 shows the results of converting the amount of deformation of the other structures, assuming that the amount of deformation of the uniform lattice structure (1) is 1.

[0146] A plurality of structures with various weights may be generated, and an appropriate structure may be selected from the results of evaluating the deformation or performance of the plurality of structures. The selection criteria may be determined arbitrarily. For example, structure (3) may be selected as the structure for which the sum (sum of squares) of the deformation amount during sintering and the deformation amount during use is smallest. Alternatively, structure (5) may be selected, the deformation amount during sintering and the deformation amount during use being smaller than structure (1). Alternatively, structure (5) may be selected, among the structures for which the deformation amount during use is smaller than structure (1), so that the deformation amount during sintering is smallest.

[0147] Note that Figure 17 shows an example of the evaluation results for the shape of a wrench as the object. Note that the amount of deformation for each weight varies depending on the use or shape of the object, and therefore the appropriate weight also varies depending on the object.

[0148] [supplement] Each function of the disclosed embodiments can be implemented by one or more processing circuits. Here, the term "processing circuit" as used herein includes a processor programmed to perform each function by software, such as a processor implemented by electronic circuits, and devices designed to perform each function, such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a conventional circuit module.

[0149] The devices described in the embodiments are merely illustrative of one of multiple computing environments for implementing the disclosed embodiments. In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 includes multiple computing devices, such as a server cluster. The multiple computing devices are configured to communicate with each other via any type of communication link, including a network, shared memory, etc., and perform the disclosed processes.

[0150] Aspects of the present invention include, for example, the following additional features.

[0151] (Appendix 1) The information processing device a first estimation step of estimating deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step of estimating performance when the object is used; a determination step of determining design information of the object based on a first estimation result obtained by the first estimation step and a second estimation result obtained by the second estimation step; An information processing method that performs the above.

[0152] (Appendix 2) The unit structure includes a lattice structure or a periodic curved surface structure. 1. The information processing method described in Appendix 1.

[0153] (Appendix 3) The design information includes a wall thickness or a density of the unit structure. 3. The information processing method according to claim 1 or 2.

[0154] (Appendix 4) The first estimation step estimates the deformation by acquiring a stress distribution during sintering. 4. An information processing method according to any one of appendices 1 to 3.

[0155] (Appendix 5) The first estimation step estimates the deformation by acquiring a stress distribution indicating a maximum principal stress during sintering. 1. The information processing method described in Appendix 4.

[0156] (Appendix 6) The stress distribution during sintering is a stress distribution when the material of the object contains aluminum or an aluminum alloy. 6. An information processing method according to claim 4 or 5.

[0157] (Appendix 7) The stress distribution during sintering is a stress distribution in a temperature range in which at least a part of aluminum is in a liquid phase state. 1. The information processing method described in Appendix 6.

[0158] (Appendix 8) The second estimation step estimates the performance by acquiring a stress distribution during use. 4. An information processing method according to any one of appendices 1 to 3.

[0159] (Appendix 9) a series of processes including the first estimation step, the determination step, the second estimation step, and the determination step being executed in this order one or more times; 9. An information processing method according to any one of appendices 1 to 8.

[0160] (Appendix 10) a series of processes that are executed in the order of the second estimation step, the determination step, the first estimation step, and the determination step is executed one or more times; 9. An information processing method according to any one of appendices 1 to 8.

[0161] (Appendix 11) the determining step determines the design information based on a result of integrating the first estimation result and the second estimation result. 11. An information processing method according to any one of appendices 1 to 10.

[0162] (Appendix 12) the determining step integrates the first estimation result and the second estimation result by adding a stress distribution during sintering and a stress distribution during use; 12. The information processing method according to claim 11.

[0163] (Appendix 13) the determining step normalizes the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use and adds them together; 13. The information processing method according to claim 12.

[0164] (Appendix 14) the determining step performs a weighted addition of the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. 14. The information processing method according to claim 12 or 13.

[0165] (Appendix 5) a first estimation step in which a computer estimates deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step in which the computer estimates performance when the object is used; a determination step in which the computer determines design information of the object based on the estimation results from the first estimation step and the second estimation step; a forming step of forming a powder layer containing powder based on design data including design information of the object, and an applying step of applying a modeling liquid to the powder layer, thereby forming the object; sintering the body; A method for manufacturing an object having the following structure:

[0166] (Appendix 16) The powder contains at least aluminum or an aluminum alloy. 16. A method of manufacturing the object of claim 15.

[0167] (Appendix 17) a first estimation unit that estimates deformation that occurs when manufacturing an object that includes a substructure in which a plurality of unit structures are connected; a second estimation unit that estimates performance when the object is used; a determination unit that determines design information of the substructure based on a first estimation result by the first estimation unit and a second estimation result by the second estimation unit; An information processing device comprising:

[0168] (Appendix 18) In the information processing device, a first estimation step of estimating deformation that occurs when manufacturing an object including a substructure in which a plurality of unit structures are connected; a second estimation step of estimating performance when the object is used; a step of determining design information of the substructure based on a first estimation result obtained by the first estimation step and a second estimation result obtained by the second estimation step; A program to execute.

[0169] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 1: Manufacturing System 2: Information processing device 3: Cloud system 100: Molding equipment 110:Drying equipment 120: Excess powder removal device 130: Sintering equipment 201: Input section 202: 1st estimation part 203:Second estimation part 204: Decision section 205: Storage section 206: Learning Department 207: Output section 1000: Information Processing Systems [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0171] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-175404

Claims

1. The information processing device a first estimation step of estimating deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step of estimating performance when the object is used; a determination step of determining design information of the object based on a first estimation result obtained by the first estimation step and a second estimation result obtained by the second estimation step; An information processing method that performs the above.

2. The unit structure includes a lattice structure or a periodic curved surface structure. The information processing method according to claim 1 .

3. The design information includes a wall thickness or a density of the unit structure. The information processing method according to claim 1 .

4. The first estimation step estimates the deformation by acquiring a stress distribution during sintering.

4. The information processing method according to claim 1.

5. the first estimation step estimates the deformation by acquiring a stress distribution indicating a maximum principal stress during sintering; The information processing method according to claim 4.

6. The stress distribution during sintering is a stress distribution when the material of the object contains aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The information processing method according to claim 4.

7. The stress distribution during sintering is a stress distribution in a temperature range in which at least a part of aluminum is in a liquid phase state. The information processing method according to claim 6.

8. the second estimation step estimates the performance by acquiring a stress distribution during use; 4. The information processing method according to claim 1.

9. a series of processes including the first estimation step, the determination step, the second estimation step, and the determination step being executed in this order one or more times; 4. The information processing method according to claim 1.

10. a series of processes including the second estimation step, the determination step, the first estimation step, and the determination step being executed in this order one or more times; 4. The information processing method according to claim 1.

11. the determining step determines the design information based on a result of integrating the first estimation result and the second estimation result.

4. The information processing method according to claim 1.

12. the determining step integrates the first estimation result and the second estimation result by adding a stress distribution during sintering and a stress distribution during use; The information processing method according to claim 11.

13. the determining step normalizes the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use and adds them together; The information processing method according to claim 12.

14. the determining step performs a weighted addition of the stress distribution during sintering and the stress distribution during use. The information processing method according to claim 12.

15. a first estimation step in which a computer estimates deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step in which the computer estimates performance when the object is used; a determination step in which the computer determines design information of the object based on the estimation results from the first estimation step and the second estimation step; a forming step of forming a powder layer containing powder based on design data including design information of the object, and an applying step of applying a modeling liquid to the powder layer, thereby forming the object; sintering the body; A method for manufacturing an object having the following structure:

16. The powder contains at least aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

16. A method for manufacturing an object according to claim 15.

17. a first estimation unit that estimates deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation unit that estimates performance when the object is used; a determination unit that determines design information of the object based on a first estimation result by the first estimation unit and a second estimation result by the second estimation unit; An information processing device comprising:

18. In the information processing device, a first estimation step of estimating deformation occurring when manufacturing an object including at least a unit structure; a second estimation step of estimating performance when the object is used; determining design information of the object based on a first estimation result obtained by the first estimation step and a second estimation result obtained by the second estimation step; A program to execute.

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