3D Object Recognition for Media-Linked Printable Model Matching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

There is no practical way for users to obtain a printed 3D object corresponding to a physical object seen in media content, as they are often unaware of available 3D printable model data and lack convenient access to 3D printers.

Innovation Solution

A media content and 3D printing system that enables users to request and manufacture 3D objects by identifying suitable 3D printable models compatible with their accessible printers, allowing local or remote printing options, and providing cost and material information for informed decision-making.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users want to obtain printed 3D objects from media content, then they need access to 3D printable models and printers, but they are unaware of available models and lack convenient access

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConvenience of obtaining 3D objectsVSAvoidAwareness of available 3D models
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to users about available 3D printable models by scanning media content and automatically identifying objects that can be printed. The system informs users of available models and printing options, transforming the one-way information flow into an interactive feedback loop that resolves the information asymmetry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a bridge between media content and 3D printing. This intermediary automatically scans media content, identifies printable objects, matches them with available 3D models, and coordinates printing services, eliminating the need for users to manually search for models or access printers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system integrates media devices with 3D printing capabilities, then user access to printing is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIntegration of media and printing functionsVSAvoidSystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system achieves multi-functionality by enabling media devices to perform both content delivery and 3D printing coordination functions. A single integrated platform handles media playback, object recognition, model matching, and printing management, allowing one system to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by automatically performing tasks that would otherwise require complex user coordination. The automatic scanning, object identification, model matching, and printing initiation processes eliminate the need for users to manually manage the complexity of integrating media devices with 3D printing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If users are provided with multiple printing options and cost information, then informed decision-making is enabled, but information processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInformed decision-making capabilityVSAvoidInformation processing requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and presenting all relevant printing options, cost estimates, and material requirements before the user makes a decision. This advance preparation of information allows users to make informed choices without having to manually process complex data during the decision-making moment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual information processing with automated computational systems. Instead of users manually comparing printing options and calculating costs, the system automatically processes this information using software algorithms, presenting simplified comparative data that requires minimal user cognitive effort to interpret.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12386330B2Dynamic 3D object recognition and printing
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 DISH TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US12386330B2 patent drawing
  • US12386330B2 patent drawing
  • US12386330B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Three-dimensional (3D) object manufacturing systems and methods are operable to manufacture printed 3D objects corresponding to user-selected physical objects of interest shown in a media content event that have been viewed by a user, wherein at least one 3D printer that is accessible by the user of the media device is operable to manufacture the printed 3D object corresponding to the viewed physical object of interest.