3D Food Mold Generation From 2D Images With Shaping Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating food product molds are inefficient and require skilled labor, as they rely on manual techniques and do not account for the specific material properties of the food products, leading to challenges in shaping and releasing the products from molds.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that processes two-dimensional images to generate three-dimensional shapes for food products, applying shaping parameters to optimize mold design based on material limitations, using additive or subtractive manufacturing techniques to create molds or food products directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual sculpturing and machining techniques are used to create molds, then cost-effectiveness is maintained for static shapes, but productivity and adaptability deteriorate when variety of shapes is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual sculpturing and machining mechanical processes with a digital workflow involving 2D image processing, 3D model generation software, and computer-controlled manufacturing. The system converts 2D images into 3D mold models automatically, eliminating the need for skilled craftspersons to manually carve molds, thus dramatically reducing lead time while enabling shape variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows rapid modification of mold parameters by changing 2D input images or adjusting digital 3D model parameters. This enables quick adaptation to different product shapes without restarting the entire mold creation process, significantly improving adaptability and reducing lead time for variety production.
2Extent of automation
If craft techniques with skilled labor are used, then mold creation quality is maintained, but device complexity and automation level deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces skilled craftspersons with an automated digital system that processes 2D images through algorithms to generate 3D mold models. This automated system maintains precision by using mathematical transformations and computer-controlled manufacturing, eliminating human error while achieving consistent, high-quality mold creation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates accurate digital copies of the desired product shape from 2D images, then uses these digital models to generate precise 3D mold geometries. This copying process through digital representation ensures manufacturing precision is maintained while enabling full automation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If generic mold designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to specific material properties deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality optimization by adjusting specific regions of the 3D mold model based on material properties. The system modifies localized areas of the mold geometry to account for material flow characteristics, release requirements, and curing properties, enabling adaptability to different materials without redesigning the entire mold.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of material properties during the 3D model generation phase, automatically incorporating optimization parameters before manufacturing begins. This preliminary action ensures the mold design is pre-optimized for specific materials, improving adaptability without adding complexity to the manufacturing process.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of preparing a food product includes defining a three-dimensional shape for the food product by computer-implemented steps of: receiving a two-dimensional image; processing at least one of colour or greyscale pixel values of the two-dimensional image to generate a digital representation of a three-dimensional shape for defining at least a part of the food product, wherein the processing includes applying shaping parameters for the food product to generate the digital representation of the three-dimensional shape; and generating a file comprising the digital representation of a three-dimensional shape for defining said at least a part of the food product. The digital representation is used to control an additive and/or subtractive three- dimensional manufacturing apparatus as part of a process for forming the food product.