3D Object Recognition for Printing Media-Viewed Physical Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is no practical way for users to obtain printed 3D objects corresponding to physical objects they see in media content, as there is no convenient method to access the associated 3D printable model data.

Innovation Solution

A media content and 3D printing system that allows users to select and manufacture 3D objects by identifying viewed objects in media content, accessing suitable 3D printable models, and utilizing local or remote 3D printers, with options for different models and printers based on compatibility and user preferences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users want to obtain printed 3D objects from media content, then the convenience of accessing 3D printable model data is improved, but the system complexity increases due to the need for integration between media devices and 3D printing systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of accessing 3D printable model dataVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a media content and 3D printing system that acts as an intermediary between media devices and 3D printers. This system includes a media device that can identify physical objects in media content, access 3D printable model data, and transmit this data to 3D printers. The intermediary system handles the complex integration tasks, including object recognition, model data retrieval, and printer coordination, thereby maintaining ease of operation for users while managing system complexity through centralized control architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple 3D printers with different capabilities are supported, then the versatility of the system is improved, but the difficulty of selecting compatible printers and models increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for different 3D printer typesVSAvoidcompatibility selection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the media content and 3D printing system automatically detects the capabilities of available 3D printers, retrieves compatible 3D printable model data based on these capabilities, and presents appropriate options to users. The system receives feedback about printer status, material availability, and capability specifications, then uses this information to filter and recommend suitable models. This automated feedback loop eliminates the need for users to manually match printer specifications with model requirements, thereby supporting multiple printer types while reducing selection difficulty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If 3D printable model data is automatically retrieved and transmitted, then the productivity of obtaining printed objects is improved, but the loss of information about user preferences and selection options increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of obtaining printed 3D objectsVSAvoiduser preference information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-retrieving and storing 3D printable model data in a database before it is needed for printing. The system maintains a library of available models with their associated metadata, including compatibility information, material requirements, and printer specifications. When a user wants to print an object, the system quickly searches this pre-prepared database rather than retrieving data in real-time. This preliminary preparation significantly speeds up the process while preserving user preference information through the structured database that tracks user selections, viewing history, and printing preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11921485B2Dynamic 3D object recognition and printing
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 DISH TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US11921485B2 patent drawing
  • US11921485B2 patent drawing
  • US11921485B2 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.