3D Model-to-Machine Fabrication Data for Automated Cutting and Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling software systems for construction projects face inefficiencies and human errors in transferring and processing cut or bend lists for fabrication machines, leading to increased complexity, material waste, and decreased operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The system integrates a Fabrication Tools block for creating fabrication drawings, a Fabrication Center block for cloud integration and project management, and a Fabrication Desktop block for synchronizing data and work orders, enabling automated generation and transmission of enhanced cut or bend lists to fabrication machines, reducing manual intervention and errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual data transfer and manipulation of cut lists is performed, then flexibility in adapting to different machines is achieved, but complexity and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a mediator between the 3D modeling software and fabrication machines. This intermediary automatically converts and transforms data between different formats and protocols, eliminating the need for manual data manipulation while maintaining compatibility with various machines. The intermediary handles data normalization, format conversion, and machine-specific parameter mapping automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal data interface and communication protocol that can work with multiple different fabrication machines and 3D modeling software packages. This universal interface consolidates machine-specific adaptations into a single standardized system, allowing the same data structure to be used across different platforms without manual reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual operations are performed at fabrication machines, then flexibility in handling unique machine requirements is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables machines to automatically receive and process their own operational parameters and instructions through automated data transmission. The system allows machines to self-configure by automatically interpreting 3D model data and generating machine-specific control parameters without requiring manual intervention for each machine setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs all necessary data preparation, conversion, and machine-specific parameter calculation in advance, before the actual fabrication operation begins. The 3D model data is pre-processed into machine-ready instructions, including all necessary offsets, tolerances, and operational parameters, so that when the machine receives the data, it can immediately begin operation without manual setup.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual calculations and measurements are performed, then accuracy in handling unique fabrication requirements is achieved, but time consumption and error likelihood increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations of measurement and calculation with automated computational processes. The system uses software-based algorithms to automatically extract dimensions, calculate cut lists, determine bend parameters, and generate fabrication instructions directly from the 3D model, eliminating the need for manual measurement and calculation while maintaining or improving accuracy through consistent digital processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method facilitating operation of a fabrication machines includes generating, by a fabrication center application (FCA): an enhanced cut list (ECL) usable by a cutting machine control application (CMCA) to direct a cutting machine (CM) to cut a work piece (WP) into ≥2 pieces; an enhanced bend list including x,y,z positional information (PI) for bending ≥1 piece(s) of the pieces at least once; and printing routine(s) (PR) for printing human- and/or computer-readable bend instructions (BI) including the x,y,z PI on the WP or the ≥1 piece(s); and transmitting, by the FCA, and via a fabrication center connector websocket: the ECL to a fabrication desktop application (FDA) of the CM to enable use of the ECL by the CMCA to cut the WP; and the PR(s) to the FDA and/or a printer to enable use thereby to print the BI(s) on ≥1 location(s) on the WP or the ≥1 piece(s).