3D Model Partitioning for Large Component Fabrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-dimensional (3D) fabrication systems face challenges in producing parts larger than their build volume, as they cannot fabricate such parts within the available space, leading to incomplete or unfeasible manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A processor determines how to partition a 3D model of a component into sections that can be fabricated within the build volume of a 3D fabrication system, considering various factors such as component shape, structural features, and mounting constraints, and modifies the model to enable separate fabrication and assembly of these sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a 3D fabrication system attempts to fabricate a part larger than its build volume, then the part size requirement is met, but the fabrication process becomes incomplete or unfeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing a large component into multiple smaller sections that can be fabricated within the build volume of the 3D fabrication system. The system determines partitioning locations and modifies the 3D model to include these sections, enabling each section to be fabricated separately and then assembled to form the complete large-scale component.
2Ease of manufacture
If a large component is divided into multiple sections for fabrication within build volume, then fabrication feasibility is improved, but the component structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines optimal partitioning locations and modifies the 3D model to include section divisions. This automated approach manages the complexity of dividing the component while ensuring that the segmented sections can be properly assembled to reconstruct the original component geometry and functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
According to examples, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may have stored thereon instructions that may cause a processor to obtain a three-dimensional (3D) model of a component to be fabricated by a 3D fabrication system, the 3D fabrication system having a build volume. The processor may also determine, based on a set of factors, a partitioning of the 3D model into separate sections, in which the separate sections may correspond to portions of the component that are sized to be fabricated within the build volume. The processor may further modify the 3D model to model the component as the separate sections.