3D Model Search via Virtual Part Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current three-dimensional printing technologies lack efficient search functionalities for users to find desired three-dimensional objects, as existing systems do not effectively allow for the segmentation and comparison of multiple object representations or the selection of similar models based on user queries.

Innovation Solution

A computer-readable medium and method that enables users to receive and generate search results by virtually segmenting three-dimensional object representations, allowing users to select and merge multiple objects, and apply search algorithms such as genus-based searches to find matching models, facilitating the selection and printing of desired three-dimensional objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple three-dimensional object representations are provided for user selection, then the user can find more suitable models, but the search time and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel selection flexibilityVSAvoidsearch time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The search process is divided into multiple stages: initial search returning a first set of results, then allowing users to select specific parts or aspects of those results for a refined second search. This segmentation of the search process reduces the time needed to find suitable models while maintaining flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary processing of three-dimensional objects by segmenting them into parts and storing these segments in advance. When users conduct searches, the pre-segmented data is readily available, significantly reducing search time while allowing comprehensive model selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If three-dimensional object representations are segmented into parts for detailed searching, then the precision of model selection improves, but the processing complexity and data storage requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesearch precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Three-dimensional objects are segmented into multiple parts or components, allowing users to search for specific portions or features of objects. This segmentation enables precise searching while the system manages the complexity through structured data organization and efficient retrieval mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates and stores digital representations (copies) of segmented three-dimensional object parts. These copies are stored in a database and can be rapidly retrieved and compared, enabling high-precision searching without requiring the physical objects to be manipulated, thus managing system complexity efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If multiple search algorithms are provided for user selection, then the accuracy of finding matching models improves, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesearch accuracyVSAvoiduser interface simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The search system is designed with multi-functional capabilities that can perform multiple types of searches (by full objects, by segments, by genus) within a single unified interface. This allows the system to provide accurate, algorithm-diverse searching while maintaining ease of operation through a consistent user experience.

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

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring users to select from multiple complex search algorithms, the system inverts the approach by providing a simplified interface where users can perform basic searches, and the system automatically applies appropriate segmentation and matching algorithms in the background, achieving high accuracy without complicating the user interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS10782850B2User interface and a method for searching a model
Publication Date: 2020.09.22 YOWZA
  • US10782850B2 patent drawing
  • US10782850B2 patent drawing
  • US10782850B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method that may include receiving or generating a first search result that comprises a first set of representations of three dimensional objects; wherein multiple representations of the first set are virtually segmented to parts; receiving a search query that identifies a given part of one of the representations of the set; and generating, in response to the given part, a second search result.