Improved 3D printing system

Abstract

A 3D printing system for the 3D printing of an object is described, comprising: a 3D printer (20) configurable to print the object; a user electronic device (40) configured to communicate with the 3D printer (20); a sharing platform (30) configured to share said 3D file (F3d) and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p) with said 3D printer (20); and a communication interface (70) connected to the 3D printer (20) and to the sharing platform (30), wherein the sharing platform (30) processes an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with the user electronic device (40) and creates a hash value of the executable printing file (Fes); and prepares a first NFT (NFT1) uniquely associated with the executable printing file (Fes) so as to confer a right to print, associating as metadata to said first NFT (NFT1) said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes); it sends the first NFT (NFT1) and the executable file (Fes) to the communication interface (70); the communication interface (70) receives the executable file (Fes) and the first NFT (NFT1); verifies that the hash value present in the first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value of the executable file (Fes); sends the executable file (Fes) to the 3D printer (20) if the first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value present in the executable file (Fes); the 3D printer (20) executes the printing of the object. The invention also describes a 3D printing method, a sharing platform (30) for 3D printing of an object, and a computer program that performs one or more of the described functions.

Description

Improved 3D Printing System

[0001] The present invention relates to an improved three-dimensional printing system.

[0002] In particular, the present invention concerns a system, a method, and a platform for the three-dimensional (3D) printing of an object.

[0003] The present invention lies in the field of additive manufacturing (or 3D printing) and, more specifically, relates to a system and method for the generation, customization, security, and management of optimized 3D models intended for printing by an end user, integrating artificial intelligence, blockchain, and interface device technologies.

[0004] The invention finds application in various sectors, including the manufacturing, medical, aerospace, and consumer goods industries, and is aimed at users and creators who require secure, customizable, and high-quality solutions for 3D printing.

[0005] In the field of additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, in recent years there has been a significant evolution of technologies, which has led to a reduction in the cost of 3D printers and an increase in their capabilities and performance.

[0006] However, despite these advances, 3D printing technology continues to exhibit a number of limitations that hinder its broader diffusion, especially among less experienced users.

[0007] At present, the 3D printing process often requires specialized technical skills, particularly concerning the preparation and optimization of 3D files for printing.

[0008] Existing types of 3D printing systems do not provide any control over the number of 3D prints, nor over any modifications made by the end user to the original object designed by a designer with specific technical requirements.

[0009] In other words, the end user may make modifications without any verification of the quality, conformity, or safety of the modified model to be printed. This results, among other things, in an inherent difficulty in determining the responsibility and potential culpability or innocence of the user who performs the printing, in the event of consequences arising from a printed component produced on the basis of a non-optimized printing model.

[0010] In particular, the phase of preparing the executable printing file, which transforms a 3D model into executable instructions for a given printer, represents a critical step that may prove lengthy, complex, and error-prone, leading to unsatisfactory printing results.

[0011] This is often exemplified by the “slicing” procedure (i.e., one of the main stages of the 3D printing process that enables the transition from a three-dimensional model of an object to its “sliced” version, thereby creating the G-code executable by a 3D printer for printing a 3D object), which is one of the known techniques used to create executable printing files from a 3D file.

[0012] In existing types of 3D printing systems, the user typically receives the model of an object on their local computer, optionally customizes it to suit their needs, configures it for printing, and locally generates the G-code to be sent to their 3D printer.

[0013] A drawback of existing 3D printing systems lies in the complexity of the 3D printing process, which represents a significant barrier for less experienced users, thereby limiting access to this innovative technology.

[0014] Another drawback of existing 3D printing systems concerns the lack of protection of the intellectual property of 3D models intended for printing.In particular, the ease with which 3D files can be duplicated and illegally distributed has created a climate of uncertainty for designers and companies wishing to commercialize their products through 3D printing platforms.

[0015] A further drawback of existing 3D printing systems lies in the absence of a secure and reliable system for tracking and verifying the authenticity of 3D files.

[0016] Another drawback of existing types of 3D printing systems concerns the lack of interoperability and compatibility among different brands and models of 3D printers, which makes it difficult for users to switch from one 3D printing device to another without having to deal with complex configurations and adaptations.

[0017] A further drawback of existing 3D printing systems lies in the fact that current solutions often do not guarantee the quality and safety of the final product, especially in sectors that require high standards, such as the medical, aerospace, and manufacturing industries.

[0018] Another drawback of existing 3D printing systems is the absence of verification and quality control processes for printed 3D objects. Most of these operations are still limited to manual or partially automated procedures.

[0019] In summary, although current 3D printing systems are technologically advanced, they still exhibit significant limitations in terms of ease of use, intellectual property protection, interoperability, and quality control of printed products.

[0020] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that eliminates the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0021] In particular, a purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that is simple, fast, and reliable to use even for a non-expert end user.

[0022] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that enables the automation of the creation and optimization of executable printing files.

[0023] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that allows the tracking and prevention of unauthorized duplication of 3D printing files.

[0024] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that allows the generation of executable files optimized for each specific printing technology, brand, printer model, and material used.

[0025] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that enables centralized and secure management of 3D printing operations.

[0026] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system that enables the production of high intellectual value objects in a decentralized manner, allowing users to print products directly at the place of use, thereby reducing the need for transportation and storage and consequently the environmental impact.

[0027] An additional purpose of the present invention is to provide a 3D printing system with assured quality.Another purpose of the present invention is to provide an improved 3D printing system in terms of execution time.

[0028] These and other purposes are achieved by means of a system for 3D printing of an object according to the invention, having the characteristics set forth in independent claim 1 of the appended claims.

[0029] Advantageous embodiments of the invention appear from the dependent claims 2 to 24.

[0030] In a second aspect, the present invention describes a computer-implemented method for 3D printing of an object, having the characteristics set forth in claim 22.

[0031] In a third aspect, the present invention describes a sharing platform having the characteristics set forth in claim 23.

[0032] In a fourth aspect, the present invention describes a computer program configured, when executed, to perform one or more of the steps of the method of the second aspect, or the functions of the sharing platform of the third aspect, as described in claims 22 and 23.

[0033] The invention, as described, achieves the following technical effects:

[0034] efficiency and simplicity in the execution of the foreseen 3D printing operations;

[0035] assurance of conformity with the physical, mechanical, and chemical specifications for which the part to be printed was designed;

[0036] assurance of the quality of the printed product;

[0037] control and monitoring of the number of 3D prints to be performed;

[0038] efficient identification of individual printed products;

[0039] ease of optimization of the initial product;

[0040] assurance that the initial product cannot be altered, except where expressly permitted by the designer;

[0041] security against unauthorized duplication of 3D prints.

[0042] Further characteristics of the invention will become clearer from the detailed description that follows, referring to an embodiment thereof which is purely exemplary and therefore non-limiting, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:Fig.1

[0043] shows a block diagram of a 3D printing system according to the present invention;Fig.2

[0044] schematically and individually shows a first component of, in particular a sharing platform;Fig.3

[0045] schematically and individually shows a second component of, in particular a communication interface;Fig.4

[0046] shows a block diagram relating to the designer’s settings;Fig.5

[0047] schematically shows the configuration of the communication interface by the user.

[0048] A 3D printing system for the three-dimensional printing of an object according to the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0049] With reference to, the 3D printing system for printing an object comprises:a processing platform (10) used by a designer (P) and arranged for the creation of a project to be 3D printed;a sharing platform (30) configured to share the 3D model of an object together with specific parameters (Pst_p) set by the designer;a 3D printer (20) configurable for printing the object; and a user device (40) belonging to a user (U) and configured to communicate with said sharing platform (30) and / or said 3D printer (20).

[0050] Preferably, between said 3D printer (20) and said sharing platform (30), there is provided a communication interface (70), which can also be accessed by the user electronic device (40).

[0051] The communication interface (70) may be integrated within the 3D printer or may be a separate hardware module, configured to communicate with the sharing platform (30), the 3D printer (20), and the user electronic device (40).

[0052] Preferably, the sharing platform (30) is a web-based platform designed to enable efficient and secure 3D printing.

[0053] Preferably, the sharing platform (30) is supported by appropriate centralized or distributed hardware, and further comprises a processing unit, as described below.

[0054] According to the invention, the sharing platform (30) interacts with designers, users, and printers.

[0055] Preferably, the user electronic device (40) may be one or more among a smartphone, tablet, notebook, or personal computer.

[0056] According to the invention, the sharing platform (30) may be intended for sharing 3D printable files created based on different projects by a designer, originating from different processing platforms (10), preferably associated with different designers and a plurality of users.

[0057] Throughout the description, the processing units / platforms are logically divided into distinct functional modules (memory modules or operational modules) that perform the functions described.

[0058] Such processing units / platforms may consist of a single electronic device, suitably programmed to perform the described functions, wherein the various modules may correspond to hardware entities and / or software routines forming part of the programmed device.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, these functionalities may be carried out by a plurality of electronic devices over which the aforementioned functional modules may be distributed.

[0060] The processing units / platforms may also employ one or more processors to execute the instructions contained in the memory modules.

[0061] The aforementioned functional modules may further be distributed across different computers, locally or remotely, depending on the architecture of the network in which they reside.

[0062] With reference to, in particular, the sharing platform (30) comprises a database (50) containing one or more 3D files (F3d), each associated with the corresponding printing parameters (Pst_p) defined by the designers.

[0063] The 3D model file (F3d) contains the three-dimensional model of an object, which must subsequently be processed to obtain an executable file interpretable by the user’s printer (20) that requests it and possesses the necessary printing rights and authorizations.

[0064] The database 50 may be a storage platform comprising several separate databases, which may also be physically distinct but interacting with each other:DB1: database of the 3D model files F3d created and shared by the designers;DB2: database of the printing parameters Pst_p defined by each designer for each 3D file F3d;DB3: database of the brands and models of 3D printers 20 usable for 3D printing and of operational parameters;DB4: database of the generated executable files Fes;DB5: database of printing reports (history of prints performed).

[0065] Preferably, the printing parameters Pst_p defined by each designer comprise one or more of at least:

[0066] DB1: database of the 3D model files F3d created and shared by the designers;DB2: database of the printing parameters Pst_p defined by each designer for each 3D file F3d;DB3: database of the brands and models of 3D printers 20 usable for 3D printing and of operational parameters;DB4: database of the generated executable files Fes;DB5: database of printing reports (history of prints performed).

[0067] Preferably, the printing parameters Pst_p defined by each designer comprise one or more of at least:the name or identifier of the designer who shared the 3D file on the sharing platform 30;a unique identifier of the 3D file F3d of the object to be printed;mode of management of Non-Fungible Tokens NFT;a serial number of the 3D file;option for physical printing of the serial number and / or a QR code and / or an RFID tag on the object requested by a user to be printed in 3D;number of printable copies for a given series;any authorization by the designer to make modifications to the 3D file F3d by a user;materials usable by a 3D printer 20 for printing the designed object;certifications of the object;printing resolution (layer height). This parameter defines the height of the layer of material deposited during each pass of the printer. Lower resolutions (thinner layers) provide better detail but require more time;extruder temperature. The temperature at which the material is extruded by the printer. Each material requires a specific temperature to ensure proper adhesion between layers and correct solidification;print bed temperature. The temperature of the heated bed, which helps prevent warping and ensures that the first layer adheres well to the printing surface;printing speed. The speed at which the extruder moves during printing. Higher speeds can reduce printing time but affect the quality and precision of the model;infill density (“infill”). The internal fill density and the different available patterns, such as honeycomb, linear, triangular, or rectilinear. It can be set as a percentage (0%-100%) and affects strength, weight, and material consumption;cooling. Control of cooling fans to ensure proper solidification of the material, especially for materials that require rapid cooling;multi-material management. To handle multiple materials simultaneously, coordinating different extruders and material changes. This parameter is useful for complex models requiring different materials (e.g., soluble supports or parts in different colors).

[0068] The mode of management of the Non-Fungible Token, included among the printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer, comprises one of the following exclusive options:static NFT or dynamic NFT, with creation of a first NFT “right to print” (NFT1) and a second NFT “proof of print” (NFT2); ordynamic NFT, using a single NFT that functions both as “right to print” and “proof of print”.

[0069] In the case of a single dynamic NFT, this is sent to the sharing platform 30 and is not deleted from the system.In the case of a single dynamic NFT, the NFT is sent back to the wallet 60, whereas in the case of a double dynamic NFT, i.e. a first NFT “right to print” and a second NFT “proof of print”, the “right to print” NFT is deleted from the system.

[0070] The sharing platform 30 comprises a processing unit (not shown in the figures), which in turn comprises a first receiving module 301 configured to receive, from said user electronic device 40, a printing request Rich_st for an object to be printed in 3D.

[0071] A user electronic device 40 is associated with a user U and is configured to communicate with the sharing platform 30 and / or with a communication interface 70 and / or with a 3D printer 20.

[0072] In one embodiment, the sharing platform 30 comprises a processing unit (not shown in the figures), which in turn comprises a user interface toward the user U to make available for consultation the 3D models F3d with the designers’ printing parameters Pst_p contained in the database 50.

[0073] The user is associated with the personal electronic device 40 configured to access the sharing platform. The user electronic device 40 is configured to browse a plurality of 3D files F3d with the design printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designers (or creators) and to request at least one of them with an authorization for 3D printing.

[0074] The sharing platform 30 comprises a first receiving module 301 configured to receive, from the user electronic device 40, a printing request Rich_st for an object to be printed in 3D using a user’s printer 20.

[0075] An extraction module 302, connected to the first receiving module 301 and to the database 50, is configured to extract from the database 50 the 3D file of the object F3d contained in said received printing request Rich_st.

[0076] Preferably, the user’s printing request Rich_st comprises one or more of at least:identification number of the 3D file F3d of the object to be printed;desired number of pieces to be printed;model of the 3D printer;type of material to be used for 3D printing;date and time of the request generated by the user electronic device 40;username of the user who requested the executable file Fes.

[0077] Once the requested 3D file F3d has been extracted from the database 50, together with the associated printing parameters Pst_p, these are sent to a first calculation module 303 configured to process the 3D file and to create an executable printing file Fes for the 3D printer 20 associated with the user electronic device 40.

[0078] The calculation module 303 is configured to also generate a hash value of said executable printing file Fes. Preferably, a hashing algorithm, such as SHA-256, is used to generate a fixed-length value (digest) that uniquely represents the executable printing file.

[0079] The first calculation module 303 is connected to the extraction module 302, from which it receives both the 3D file F3d and the printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer, and it is configured to send the executable file Fes, together with the hash code, to a second calculation module 304.

[0080] The second calculation module 304 is configured to generate a first Non-Fungible Token (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file Fes, thereby conferring a right to print, by associating as a metadata to said first NFT (NFT1) said hash value of the executable printing file Fes.

[0081] The Non-Fungible Token may be implemented through a smart contract.The NFT may be executed on a distributed digital ledger, such as the “Blockchain”.

[0082] Preferably, the sharing platform 30 may be configured to provide at least one Oracle associated with said smart contract.

[0083] Once the first NFT has been generated, it is sent to a storage module 305 configured to store the first NFT in an NFT wallet 60 located within the sharing platform 30.

[0084] Once the executable file Fes has been created and the first NFT generated, when the user decides to start the printing process, these are sent to a transmission module 306 configured to transmit the first NFT (NFT1) and the executable file Fes to the communication interface 70 connected to the 3D printer 20.

[0085] When uploading the 3D file, the designer can choose whether to use standard static NFTs or dynamic NFTs.

[0086] In the case where the option of dynamic NFTs is selected, the designer may choose whether to create a single NFT (“right to print” and “proof of print”, i.e., NFT1 and NFT2) that also contains oracles for the subsequent insertion of data normally included within the “proof of print” NFT, or to have two distinct dynamic NFTs.

[0087] The sharing platform 30 is connected to the communication interface 70 through a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) communication protocol. In this way, a secure and encrypted connection is established between the sharing platform 30, the communication interface 70, the designers’ processing unit 10, and the user electronic devices 40 connected to the network. Thus, a trust relationship is established and both parties are authenticated before sharing credentials or data over the internet.

[0088] According to the invention, the communication interface 70, in connection with a 3D printer 20 and the sharing platform 30, comprises a first receiving module 701 configured to receive the executable file Fes, and a second receiving module 702 configured to receive the first NFT (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), configured to confer a right to print.

[0089] The executable file Fes and the first NFT1 (which confers a right to print) are sent to a verification module 703 configured to verify that the hash value contained in said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value contained in the received executable file Fes. If such verification by the module 703 is positive, the executable file is authorized by the system to be printed; otherwise, printing is prevented, the executable file is not sent to the 3D printer, and a warning signal is generated.

[0090] In the case of authorized printing, i.e., if the first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value contained in the executable file Fes, a printing execution module 704 sends the executable file Fes to the 3D printer 20, starts the printer, and initiates the printing process.

[0091] In this way, the user’s 3D printer 20 performs the printing of the object.At the end of the printing process, the executable file Fes is deleted.

[0092] The verification module 703 is also configured to block the execution of the printing of the executable file Fes in the event that the hash value contained in the first NFT (NFT1) does not match the hash value contained in the received executable file (Fes).

[0093] In the event that printing is blocked due to the absence of the right to print, the process is interrupted and both the executable file Fes and the first NFT are deleted.

[0094] In other words, the verification module 703 is configured to perform the following checks: 1) whether the user who owns the “Right to Print” NFT is the same user who originally made the purchase; 2) whether the printer 20 for which the executable file Fes was prepared corresponds to the one currently associated with the communication interface 70 of the holder of the “Right to Print” NFT; 3) it verifies that the printer 20 connected to the communication interface 70 is among those authorized by the designer for printing the product; 4) it requests confirmation of the material that the user intends to use for printing; 5) it verifies whether updated versions of the executable file are available (updates relating to the printer model 20 or to the selected material).

[0095] In the case of the use of dynamic NFTs, the update of the executable printing file Fes is performed automatically through oracles whenever the system updates the preparation parameters for the executable printing file Fes, for the printer 40 and / or the material specified at the time of the model purchase.

[0096] If, following one or more of the checks mentioned above, any variations are detected, the process restarts from the extraction of the 3D file F3d for the creation of a new executable file Fes and the generation of a new “Right to Print” NFT. If no variations are detected, the process continues without reprocessing the executable file.

[0097] The cloud platform sends the “Right to Print” NFT file to the communication interface 70 via a secure SSL communication channel.

[0098] Uploading – Designer Processing

[0099] With particular reference to Figures 1 and 4, the sharing platform 30 comprises a first receiving module 307 configured to receive the 3D file (F3d) of the object to be 3D printed and the plurality of printing parameters Pst_p defined by the processing platform 10 used by a designer P.

[0100] The printing parameters Pst_p define the design choices established by the designer, necessary for achieving a 3D print that conforms to the intended project.

[0101] Preferably, the printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer for a specific object comprise one or more of at least:username of the designer who shared the 3D file on the sharing platform 30;identification number of the 3D file F3d of the object to be printed;Non-Fungible Token (NFT) management mode;authorized number of pieces to be printed;type of material to be used for 3D printing;printing resolution (layer height);extruder temperature;print bed temperature;printing speed;infill density;cooling fan settings;multi-material management.

[0102] The receiving module 307 sends the 3D file (F3d) of the object to be printed and the printing parameters Pst_p to a storage module 308 configured to store them in the database 50.In this way, they are made available to users connected to the sharing platform 30.

[0103] Preferably, the sharing platform 30 comprises a second storage module configured to store the executable file Fes in the database 50.

[0104] Once the 3D file of the object has been uploaded to the sharing platform, the designer may select the printing parameters (e.g., print quantity, series option, QR-code option, 3D printers authorized to print the object, certifications, etc.). Among the options available to the designer, one concerns the possibility of selecting whether the first NFT is static (non-editable, with permanent and immutable data) or a dynamic NFT. Dynamic NFTs are a subclass of NFTs whose characteristics can be modified when certain conditions occur. Unlike static NFTs, the metadata of dynamic NFTs can be modified and visually updated. In fact, while static NFTs are generally created using the ERC-721 token standard, dynamic NFTs are designed using the ERC-1155 standard.

[0105] Another option available to the designer involves selecting which information to transfer onto the NFT1.

[0106] Advantageously, the 3D file, together with the designer’s printing parameters Pst_p, is encrypted and stored in the database 50.

[0107] Print Report Generation

[0108] At the end of the printing process, the communication interface 70 generates and sends a printing report to the sharing platform 30.By sending the printing report to the sharing platform, the communication interface 70 communicates the completion of the printing process.

[0109] The printing report contains, for example, information on the progress of the print, error and anomaly reports, any interruptions during the printing cycle, printing parameters, material used, printer settings, environmental conditions, final printing results, etc.

[0110] These printing parameters are sent from the 3D printer to the communication interface 70, which processes and collects them in a printing report that, once the printing is completed, is sent to the sharing platform 30 for statistical processing based on a plurality of printing reports and is subsequently archived.

[0111] The sharing platform 30, based on the received printing reports, identifies which configurations have produced the best results and automatically adjusts the parameters to improve the quality of subsequent prints.If systematic errors are identified, such as extrusion or adhesion issues, future executable files Fes can be optimized to prevent these errors by adjusting key parameters.

[0112] Printing reports in general allow the sharing platform to obtain specific feedback on the materials, dynamically adapt models according to the environmental conditions in the printing area, prevent errors through predictive analysis, support optimization, etc.

[0113] The processing of printing reports described above is fundamental to ensuring continuous improvement in the processing of 3D models, since the collected data are used to optimize the conversion process of 3D files into executable files Fes for 3D printers 20.

[0114] The sharing platform 30 comprises a module configured for the processing and analysis of the data collected from the printing reports, identifying possible errors or structural defects in the 3D models.This analysis module also dynamically adjusts the printing parameters Pst_p and Pst_u, optimizing factors such as temperature and printing speed according to the specific material used.

[0115] By using the data collected from previous prints, 3D models are continuously optimized, ensuring that subsequent prints are increasingly precise and reliable.

[0116] The sharing platform 30 therefore generates a new “Proof of Print” NFT file, or second NFT (NFT2), which serves as a record containing a wide range of information regarding the printed 3D product and the production process.

[0117] The “Proof of Print” NFT file (NFT2) is stored in a wallet 60 and can be transferred to external wallets outside the cloud platform.The “Proof of Print” NFT certifies the ownership and authenticity of the object possessed by the user and created through 3D printing.

[0118] Preferably, the communication interface 70 comprises a reporting module 705 configured, once the 3D printing of the object has been completed, to create a printing report Rep_st containing the actual printing parameters Pst1.

[0119] The reporting module 705 is connected to a transmission module 706 configured to transmit the printing report Rep_st to a printing report receiving module 310 of the sharing platform 30.

[0120] The sharing platform 30 comprises a printing report receiving module 311 configured to receive, from the communication interface 70, the printing report Rep_st.

[0121] Advantageously, the sharing platform 30 comprises a module 312 configured, once printing is completed, to generate a second Non-Fungible Token (NFT2), or “Proof of Print” NFT, which certifies the printing of the 3D object.The second NFT2 contains information about the printed 3D object and the production / printing process.

[0122] Finally, the sharing platform 30 also comprises a module 313 configured to store the second NFT (NFT2) in the NFT wallet 60 and / or to transfer it to external wallets outside the sharing platform 30, e.g., the personal wallet of the user who performed the 3D printing.

[0123] The “Proof of Print” NFT certifies the ownership and authenticity of the object possessed by the user and created through 3D printing.

[0124] Preferably, the actual printing parameters Pst1 comprise one or more of the following:date, time, location, and environmental conditions at the time of printing;make, model, and serial number of the 3D printer 20 used;certifications of the printer used, such as Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CE, AS9100, ISO13485, ISO / TS 16949;username and data of the user who performed the print;serial number of the interface 70 from which the print was initiated;progressive print number;serial number and / or QR code printed on the product, if this option was selected by the designer to be printed;any printing errors, anomalies, or interruptions;material used;settings of the 3D printer 20 used;final printing results, such as estimated weight, volume, dimensions, and colors.

[0125] If the option to print a QR code on the product has been selected, scanning the QR code using an electronic device links to the NFT file and any attachments associated with the object, such as technical datasheets.

[0126] Preferably, the sharing platform 30 allows transferring the first NFT (NFT1) and / or the second NFT (NFT2) to an external user wallet and / or receiving said first NFT (NFT1) and said second NFT (NFT2) from an external wallet into said NFT wallet 60.

[0127] The user electronic device 40 may transfer the “Right to Print” NFT file to external wallets outside the sharing platform 30, which can subsequently be exchanged with other users.The “Right to Print” NFT file enables the exchange of a printing right without circulating the 3D file, keeping both the executable file and the 3D file securely stored in the database 50.In this way, the risk of intellectual property violation is eliminated, and print quality is always guaranteed.

[0128] Preferably, the communication interface 70 comprises a module 707 configured to delete said executable file Fes and said first NFT (NFT1) once the 3D printing of the object has been completed.

[0129] The first NFT (NFT1) includes printing parameters defined by the designer (Pst_p), the user (Pst_u), and additional operational parameters.

[0130] In particular, the first NFT (NFT1) comprises one or more of the following parameters related to the executable file Fes:date and time the request was received from the user electronic device 40;username of the user who requested the executable file Fes;make and model of the 3D printer 20 for which the executable file Fes was optimized;serial number of the 3D model;QR code;number of copies available for a given series;make and model of the requested 3D file F3d of the object;format of the associated executable file Fes;designer’s name;designer’s authorization for user modifications to the 3D file F3d;product certifications.

[0131] Advantageously, the sharing platform 30 comprises an assignment module configured to generate and assign a unique serial number to the executable print file (Fes) and to the physical 3D printed object.The unique serial number may comprise an alphanumeric code, a QR code, and / or an RFID tag that is printed together with the part, thus becoming part of it.These serial numbers and QR codes are associated with the executable print file during its preparation and printed on the final product.

[0132] The second receiving module 303 is configured to receive from the user electronic device 40 a plurality of user-defined printing parameters Pst_u.

[0133] Preferably, the sharing platform 30 comprises a numbering and monitoring module for tracking the number of copies printed from a given 3D file.

[0134] The sharing platform 30 also comprises a module configured to dynamically update the first NFT (NFT1), if such an option is included among the printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer when uploading the 3D file F3d to the platform 30.In this way, if the designer selected the option for dynamic NFTs during the design phase, any changes to the executable file (Fes) or parameters related to the 3D file (F3d) are modified and updated within the corresponding first NFT (NFT1) associated with them.

[0135] The sharing platform 30 is configured to connect to external databases or official registries to verify the authenticity of the product certifications contained in said first NFT (NFT1).

[0136] Preferably, the configuration platform 30 comprises a notification module configured to send an alert message to said user electronic device 40 and / or to the designer’s processing platform 10 whenever said executable file (Fes) is modified or reprocessed.

[0137] Advantageously, the sharing platform 30 comprises an algorithmic chatbot module configured to interpret and translate textual descriptions provided by the user electronic device 40, in order to make modifications to the 3D files F3d or to create new ones.

[0138] Thus, if such an option is authorized by the designer, it allows decomposition of the user’s request into:dimensional parameters such as height, radius, thickness;requested transformations such as rotations, translations, or roto-translations;scripting language.

[0139] The communication interface 70 comprises a graphical interface module accessible from said user device 40 through said sharing platform 30, configured to download printing parameters and files from the printer 20 and to select the make and model of the connected printer 20.

[0140] The communication interface 70 can be a hardware component interposed between the sharing platform 30 and the 3D printer 20, or it may be integrated within the user’s 3D printer 20.

[0141] Advantageously, the communication interface 70 includes a control and security module configured to authorize the printing of the executable file (Fes) only if the printing parameters Pst_u defined by the user coincide (i.e., are identical) with the printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer during the configuration phase.

[0142] In this way, the system of the present invention authorizes the printing of an object only with 3D printers and printing materials that comply with the plurality of printing parameters Pst_p defined by the designer during configuration.

[0143] Furthermore, the control and security module is configured to:block the printing process of an executable file Fes if a given 3D printer 20 is not among those authorized by the designer;perform filament verification, checking that the printing material used is among those approved by the designer.

[0144] During the configuration and registration phase, the user electronic device 20 registers with the platform. In the case of first-time registration, it configures the communication interface 70.

[0145] The sharing platform 30 sends its Public Key (Cloud Public Key) to the communication interface 70.

[0146] The communication interface 70 sends the public key of the device associated with the user (HW Public Key) and the hash of the hardware chip serial number to the sharing platform 30 for data storage in the database 60 associated with each user.

[0147] At this stage, the user completes the information related to the device used for printing (in the future, the communication interface 70 will be capable of automatically recognizing the connected printer).

[0148] Finally, the sharing platform 30 proceeds to save all information related to the user’s hardware, associating it with the user in the database 60.

[0149] Once the executable file Fes is created on the sharing platform 30, it is encrypted using as keys the private key of the platform 30, the hash of the hardware chip serial number, and the public key of the communication interface 70 (or hardware device).

[0150] At this point, the sharing platform 30 sends the encrypted file via a secure SSL communication channel to the hardware communication device 70.

[0151] Once received, the communication interface 70 computes the hash of the machine’s chip serial number and uses it as a decryption key for the executable file Fes, together with the other keys.If the decryption of the executable file Fes is attempted on a communication interface 70 different from the one originally associated, during setup, by the owner (user) holding the right to print, the decryption fails, the process is interrupted, and the executable file Fes is deleted.

[0152] Hardware: it uses the Hardware Private Key and the Cloud Public Key to decrypt the executable file together with the device hash. If the keys are incorrect, decryption fails, the process stops, and the file is returned to the sharing platform 30.

[0153] Finally, within the communication interface 70, the received executable file Fes is decrypted and stored in a local RAM memory without saving a copy on the file system.This prevents the extraction of the executable file Fes from the communication interface 70 through unauthorized operations.

[0154] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for 3D printing an object, comprising the following steps:

[0155] providing a 3D printer (20) configured to print said object;

[0156] providing a user electronic device (40) configured to communicate with said 3D printer (20);

[0157] providing a database (50) configured to store a 3D file of the object (F3d) and a plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p), defined by a designer, associated with said 3D file of the object (F3d);

[0158] providing a sharing platform (30), wherein said method comprises the steps, performed by said sharing platform (30), of:receiving, from said user electronic device (40), a print request (Rich_st) for a 3D object to be printed;extracting, from said database (50), the 3D file of the object (F3d) contained in said print request (Rich_st);creating an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with said user electronic device (40);generating a hash value for said executable printing file (Fes);preparing a first NFT (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), configured to grant a printing right;associating said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes) as metadata to said first NFT (NFT1);storing said first NFT (NFT1) in an NFT wallet (60) of said sharing platform (30);transmitting said first NFT (NFT1) and said executable file (Fes) to a communication interface (70).

[0159] Providing a communication interface (70) in connection with said 3D printer (20) and said sharing platform (30), wherein the method further comprises the steps, executed by said communication interface (70), of:receiving said executable file (Fes) and said first NFT (NFT1);verifying whether the hash value of said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value present in the received executable file (Fes);sending said executable file (Fes) to said 3D printer (20) if said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value present in the executable file (Fes);

[0160] wherein said 3D printer (20) is configured to perform the steps of:receiving said executable file (Fes) from said communication interface (70);executing the 3D printing of the object.

[0161] The sharing platform 30 preferably comprises:a first receiving module (301) configured to receive, from said user electronic device (40), a printing request (Rich_st) for an object to be 3D printed;an extraction module (302) configured to extract, from said database (50), the 3D file of the object (F3d) contained in said printing request (Rich_st) received from said user electronic device (40);a first processing module (303) configured to create an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with said user electronic device (40), and to generate a hash value of said executable printing file (Fes);a second processing module (304) configured to prepare a first NFT (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), associating as metadata to said first NFT (NFT1) said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes);a storage module (305) configured to store said first NFT (NFT1) in an NFT wallet (60);a transmission module (306) configured to send said first NFT (NFT1) and said executable file (Fes) to said communication interface (70).

[0162] According to a fourth aspect, the invention also relates to a computer program configured, when executed, to perform one or more of the steps of the method described in the second aspect of the invention, or to execute the functions of the sharing platform 30 described in the third aspect above.

[0163] The 3D printing system according to the present invention offers the following advantages:

[0164] It allows the maximization of security in the sharing, requesting, and distribution of 3D models of objects to be printed.

[0165] It eliminates any procedure required by the user to perform printing, thereby greatly simplifying the use of this technology.

[0166] Once an object is selected by a user, 3D printing is performed quickly and easily at the user’s location.

[0167] It enables monitoring and certification of 3D print duplication.

[0168] It provides an ecological advantage, as it eliminates the need to manufacture an object in a factory and subsequently transport it to the end user’s location.

[0169] It helps combat obsolescence, as no dedicated or updated slicing software is required on the user side.

[0170] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a computer program configured, when executed, to perform one or more of the operational steps described above in relation to the 3D printing system / method.

[0171] In another aspect, the invention includes a computer program configured, when executed, to perform the functions of the sharing platform considered independently.

[0172] Naturally, the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiment previously described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings; numerous detailed modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 3D printing system for the three-dimensional printing of an object, comprising:a 3D printer (20) configured to print said object;a user electronic device (40) configured to communicate with said 3D printer (20);a database (50) configured to store a 3D file (F3d) of the object and a plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p), defined by a designer, associated with said 3D file (F3d) of the object;a sharing platform (30) configured to share said 3D file (F3d) and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p) with said 3D printer (20), wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises:a first receiving module (301) configured to receive, from said user electronic device (40), a printing request (Rich_st) for an object to be three-dimensionally printed;an extraction module (302) configured to extract, from said database (50), the 3D file (F3d) of the object contained in said printing request (Rich_st) received from said user electronic device (40);a first computation module (303) configured to generate an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with said user electronic device (40), and to create a hash value of said executable printing file (Fes);a second computation module (304) configured to generate a first non-fungible token (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), in such a way as to confer a printing right, by associating, as metadata of said first NFT (NFT1), said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes);a storage module (305) configured to store said first NFT (NFT1) in an NFT wallet (60);a transmission module (306) configured to transmit said first NFT (NFT1) and said executable file (Fes) to said communication interface (70);a communication interface (70), connected to said 3D printer (20) and said sharing platform (30), comprising:first receiving module (701) configured to receive said executable file (Fes) from said sharing platform (30);second receiving module (702) configured to receive said first NFT (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), configured to grant a right to print;a verification module (703) configured to verify that the hash value contained in said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value contained in the executable file (Fes) received;a printing execution module (704) configured to send the executable file (Fes) to the 3D printer (20) if said first NFT (NFT1) corresponds to the hash value contained in the executable file (Fes);wherein said 3D printer (20) performs the printing of the object;wherein said communication interface (70) comprises a control and security module configured to authorize the printing of the executable file (Fes) when a plurality of user-defined printing parameters (Pst_u) match the designer-defined printing parameters (Pst_p) set during configuration.System according to claim 1, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises:a first receiving module (307) configured to receive the 3D file (F3d) of the object to be three-dimensionally printed and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p) defined by a processing platform (10) operated by a designer (Pr);a storage module (308) configured to store, in said database (50), the 3D file (F3d) of the object to be printed and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises a second storage module configured to store, in a second database, said executable file (Fes).

4. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said communication interface (70) comprises:a reporting module (705) configured, after completion of the 3Dprinting of the object, to generate a printing report (Rep_st) containing actual printing parameters (Pst1);a transmission module (706) configured to transmit said printing report (Rep_st) to a printing report receiving module (310) of said sharing platform (30);and wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises:a printing report receiving module (311) configured to receive, from said communication interface (70), said printing report (Rep_st);a module (312) configured to generate a second non-fungible token (NFT2) certifying the printing of the 3D object, containing information about the printed 3D object and the production process;a module (313) configured to store said second NFT (NFT2) in said NFT wallet (60).

5. System according to claim 4, wherein the management mode of the Non-Fungible Token, included among the printing parameters (Pst_p) defined by the designer, comprises one of the following exclusive options:Static NFT or dynamic NFT, with the creation of a first “right toprint” NFT (NFT1) and a second “proof of print” NFT (NFT2);Dynamic NFT, using a single NFT that functions both as a “right to print” and as a “proof of print.”6. System according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said actual printing parameters (Pst1) comprise one or more of the following:printing progress;any printing errors, anomalies, or interruptions;material used;settings of the 3D printer (20) used;environmental conditions in which the 3D printer (20) operated during printing;final printing results.System according to one or more of claims 4 to 6, wherein said sharing platform (30) is configured to transfer said first NFT (NFT1) or said second NFT (NFT2) to an external user wallet, and / or to receive said first NFT (NFT1) and said second NFT (NFT2) from an external user wallet into said NFT wallet (60).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said communication interface (70) comprises a module (707) configured to delete said executable file (Fes) and said first NFT (NFT1), if the NFT is of a static type, once the 3D printing of the object has been completed.System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said first NFT (NFT1) comprises one or more of the following parameters related to said executable file (Fes):– date and time when the request was received from the user electronic device (40);– username of the user who requested the executable file (Fes);– brand and model of the 3D printer (20) for which the executable file (Fes) was optimized;– serial number;– QR code;– number of copies available for a given series;– brand and model of the requested 3D file (F3d) of the object;– format of the associated executable file (Fes);– name of the designer;– designer’s authorization for a user to modify the 3D file (F3d);– product certifications.System according to one or more of claims 5 to 9, wherein said second NFT (NFT2) comprises one or more of the following:– date, time, location, and environmental conditions at the time of printing;– brand, model, and serial number of the 3D printer (20) used;– certifications of the printer used;– username and data of the user who performed the printing;– serial number of the interface (70) from which the printing was launched;– sequential printing number;– serial number and / or QR code applied to the printed product, if such option has been selected by the designer to be printed;– any printing errors, anomalies, or interruptions;– material used for printing;– settings of the 3D printer (20) used;– final printing results, such as estimated weight, volume, dimensions, and colors.System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said verification module (703) is configured to block the execution of the printing of the executable file (Fes) in the event that the hash value contained in said first NFT (NFT1) does not match the hash value contained in the received executable file (Fes).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises an assignment module configured to generate and assign a unique serial number to said executable printing file (Fes) and to said three-dimensionally printed object.System according to claim 8, wherein said unique serial number comprises an alphanumeric code, a QR code, and / or an RFID tag that is printed together with the object to be produced, becoming an integral part thereof.System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said second receiving module (303) is configured to receive, from said user electronic device (40), said plurality of user-defined printing parameters (Pst_u).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises a numbering and monitoring module configured to track the printed copies of a given 3D file.System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises a module configured to dynamically update said first NFT (NFT1), if such option is included among said printing parameters (Pst_p) defined by the designer.System according to claim 11, wherein said sharing platform (30) is configured to connect to external databases or official registries to verify the authenticity of the product certifications contained in said first NFT (NFT1).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises a notification module configured to send an alert message to said user electronic device (40) upon each modification or reprocessing of said executable file (Fes).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said communication interface (70) comprises a graphical interface module accessible from said user device (40) through said sharing platform (30), configured to download printing reports, logs, error messages, files, and any other type of statistical information related to the printer and the printed object.System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said communication interface (70) is a hardware element interposed between said sharing platform (30) and said 3D printer (20), or may be integrated within said 3D printer (20).System according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises an algorithmic chatbot module, configured to interpret and translate textual descriptions provided by said user electronic device (40) and to modify existing 3D files or to generate new 3D files (F3d).Computer-implemented method for the three-dimensional printing of an object, comprising the steps of:providing a 3D printer (20) configurable to print said object;providing a user electronic device (40) configured to communicate with said 3D printer (20);providing a database (50) configured to store a 3D file (F3d) of the object and a plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p), defined by a designer and associated with said 3D file (F3d) of the object;providing a sharing platform (30) configured to share said 3D file (F3d) and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p) with said 3D printer (20);wherein said method comprises the steps, executed by said sharing platform (30), of:receiving, from said user electronic device (40), a printing request (Rich_st) for an object to be three-dimensionally printed;extracting, from said database (50), the 3D file (F3d) of the object contained in said printing request (Rich_st);generating an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with said user electronic device (40);generating a hash value of said executable printing file (Fes);creating a first non-fungible token (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes), configured to confer a right to print;associating, as metadata of said first NFT (NFT1), said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes);storing said first NFT (NFT1) in an NFT wallet (60) of said sharing platform (30);transmitting said first NFT (NFT1) and said executable file (Fes) to a communication interface (70);wherein the method further comprises the steps, executed by said communication interface (70),- of:receiving said executable file (Fes) from said sharing platform (30) and said first NFT (NFT1);verifying whether the hash value of said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value contained in the received executable file (Fes);sending said executable file (Fes) to said 3D printer (20) if said first NFT (NFT1) matches the hash value contained in said executable file (Fes);wherein said 3D printer (20) is configured to perform the steps of:receiving said executable file (Fes) from said communication interface (70);executing the 3D printing of the object;authorizing the printing of the executable file (Fes) only when a plurality of user-defined printing parameters (Pst_u) match the designer-defined printing parameters (Pst_p) set during configuration.Sharing platform (30) configured to share said 3D file (F3d) and said plurality of printing parameters (Pst_p) with said 3D printer (20), wherein said sharing platform (30) comprises:a first receiving module (301) configured to receive, from said user electronic device (40), a printing request (Rich_st) for an object to be three-dimensionally printed;an extraction module (302) configured to extract, from said database (50), the 3D file (F3d) of the object contained in said printing request (Rich_st) received from said user electronic device (40);a first computation module (303) configured to create an executable printing file (Fes) for the 3D printer (20) associated with said user electronic device (40) and to generate a hash value of said executable printing file (Fes);a second computation module (304) configured to generate a first non-fungible token (NFT1) uniquely associated with said executable printing file (Fes) by associating, as metadata of said first NFT (NFT1), said hash value of the executable printing file (Fes);a storage module (305) configured to store said first NFT (NFT1) in an NFT wallet (60);a transmission module (306) configured to transmit said first NFT (NFT1) and said executable file (Fes) to said communication interface (70).Computer program configured, when executed, to perform one or more of the steps of the method according to claim 22, or to execute the functions of the sharing platform (30) according to claim 23.

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