3D Model File Region Material Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D printing technologies face challenges in accurately selecting and transferring material information for multi-material 3D models, leading to inconsistent printing results due to incomplete design information.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for generating and providing 3D model files that include specific fields for material information, scan resolution, and surface thickness, allowing for precise definition of materials and properties for each region of the model, enabling efficient 3D printing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If detailed material information is provided for each region of the 3D model, then printing accuracy and material selection precision are improved, but file complexity and data volume increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting accuracyVSAvoidfile complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the 3D model into multiple regions and assigns material information to each region separately. The file format includes region definitions with vertex indices and material identifiers, allowing precise material specification for different parts of the model without requiring a single complex material definition for the entire model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables different material properties to be assigned to different regions of the 3D model. Each region can have its own material identifier, texture coordinates, and printing parameters, allowing local optimization of material selection based on specific regional requirements while maintaining overall model integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If comprehensive material and design information is included in the 3D model file, then printing reliability is improved, but information transfer complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprinting reliabilityVSAvoidinformation transfer complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal file format that can handle multiple types of information (material properties, texture coordinates, region definitions, vertex data) in a standardized structure. This multi-functional format ensures reliable information transfer across different 3D printing systems while maintaining consistent data organization and interpretation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized file format acts as an intermediary between the 3D model design and the printing process. It structures material and design information in a consistent format that facilitates accurate information transfer, reducing errors and ensuring reliable reproduction of the intended design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If material information is defined for each region, then adaptability for multi-material printing is improved, but file size and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-material adaptabilityVSAvoiddata volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the 3D model into regions with distinct material assignments. Each region contains vertex indices and material identifiers that reference a material library, allowing efficient storage of material information without duplicating data across the entire model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses material identifiers and indices to reference material properties rather than storing complete material definitions for each region. This parameter-based approach maintains high adaptability for multi-material printing while significantly reducing the overall data volume required in the file.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9864819B2Three-dimensional (3D) model file, and apparatus and method for providing 3D model file
Publication Date: 2018.01.09 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US9864819B2 patent drawing
  • US9864819B2 patent drawing
  • US9864819B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A three-dimensional (3D) model file, and a method and apparatus for providing the 3D model file are provided. The method may include generating a 3D model file comprising a first field defining information associated with a printing material of a 3D model to perform 3D printing, and providing the 3D model file.