3D Object Routing and Procurement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 3D printing workflow is inefficient due to the need for designers to manually transfer model files to specific 3D printers and the time-consuming process of procuring components, especially for small orders or hard-to-find items, as suppliers may not be interested in fulfilling such requests or have stock issues.
Innovation Solution
A networked system that routes 3D object models to capable printers and a procurement system that automatically finds sources capable of providing components within specified constraints, including the option to source from 3D printing facilities for quick delivery of hard-to-find items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a designer manually transfers model files to specific 3D printers, then the model can be printed on the correct printer, but the workflow becomes inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the digital model to automatically identify and route itself to the appropriate 3D printer based on its requirements, eliminating the need for manual intervention by designers in transferring files between computers and printers.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized server acts as an intermediary between designers and 3D printers. The server receives digital models, determines the appropriate printer based on model requirements, and automatically routes the files, thereby eliminating the need for manual file transfer and improving workflow efficiency.
2Productivity
If a purchaser manually searches for suppliers and compares lead-times and costs, then the selection can be optimized, but the procurement process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The procurement system enables self-service by allowing the purchaser to simply specify requirements, while the system automatically searches multiple suppliers, compares lead-times and costs, and identifies the optimal source without requiring manual intervention in the search and comparison process.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized procurement system acts as an intermediary between purchasers and multiple suppliers. The system receives procurement requests, automatically queries multiple suppliers for availability and pricing, compares the responses, and presents the optimal options to the purchaser, thereby dramatically reducing procurement time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If suppliers are contacted for small or hard-to-find components, then the procurement options increase, but suppliers may not be interested or may be out of stock
Solution Approach 1:
The procurement system serves multiple functions by simultaneously querying multiple suppliers for each component request, evaluating both common and hard-to-find items, and providing a unified interface for procurement regardless of component availability or order size, thereby increasing procurement flexibility while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing an order for components includes receiving, at a server, an order that specifies one or more components for procurement and constraints for procuring the one or more components. A processor determines one or more sources capable of providing one or more of the components within the received constraints. At least one of the sources corresponds to a 3D printing facility that prints components via a 3D printing process. The processor communicates one or more orders for procuring the one or more components to the determined one or more sources.