3D Integrated Code on Additive Manufactured Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for providing machine-readable codes on components are either applied post-production, leading to additional operations and potential errors, or require separate steps that can result in detachment or replacement issues, such as with bar codes and QR codes.
Innovation Solution
A method where a three-dimensional code is produced as one piece with the component using raised or recessed areas to depict encoded data, integrated into the component's surface during production, ensuring permanent connection and preventing erroneous assignment or removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a code is applied to the component surface in a separate method step, then the code can be provided on the component, but the code may be erroneously assigned, detached, or replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The code is merged with the component by producing both as one piece in a single additive manufacturing operation. The code elements are integrated into the component geometry during the same build process, eliminating separate application steps and ensuring permanent attachment without risk of detachment or erroneous assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The code is prepared and positioned on the component surface before the final component production is completed. The 3D-CAD data set includes code geometry data that is processed during additive production, allowing the code to be pre-formed as part of the component structure before finalization.
2Reliability
If a serial number is engraved on the component, then the component is permanently identified, but the machine readout requires complicated technical methods
Solution Approach 1:
The code transitions from traditional 2D flat patterns to 3D raised or recessed elements on the component surface. This three-dimensional structure maintains permanent identification while enabling simple machine readout through standard optical or tactile scanning methods that can easily detect the elevated or depressed code elements.
3Ease of operation
If bar codes or QR codes are applied to the component, then machine reading is enabled, but the code must be applied in a separate method step
Solution Approach 1:
The code application process is merged with the component manufacturing process. Both the code elements and the component itself are produced simultaneously in a single additive manufacturing operation, eliminating the need for separate code application steps and improving overall production efficiency.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a code is produced as one piece with the component, then the code cannot be easily removed or replaced, but the production process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The additive production machine performs both code creation and component manufacturing in a single self-contained process. The system automatically generates the code elements with correct geometry and positioning based on 3D-CAD data, eliminating the need for external code application equipment or manual processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method in which a three-dimensional component is produced and is provided on its component surface with a machine-readable code, wherein the code is produced in one part with the component and has a plurality of three-dimensional code elements, which represent the coded data in binary form on the basis of raised regions and non-raised regions in relation to a reference plane. A method in which a three-dimensional component is produced and is provided on its component surface with a machine-readable code, wherein the code is produced in one part with the component and has a plurality of three-dimensional code elements which represent the coded data in binary form on the basis of recessed regions and non-recessed regions in relation to a reference plane. A component includes such a code.