3D Printer Control Data for Fast Surface Structure Customization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing 3D objects with complex surface structures are time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring individual data models and extensive slicing processes, especially when dealing with geometrically sophisticated components like concrete elements.
Innovation Solution
A method where the data model of the basic structure is sliced without the surface structure, and the surface structure is generated directly in the machine control data by modifying the print path and printing parameters, allowing for efficient production of 3D objects with complex surface structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual data models are generated for each element with different surface structures, then the surface structure requirements are met, but the time and computational resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data model into two independent parts: the basic structure model and the surface structure model. The basic structure model is sliced once to generate machine control data, and then surface structures are added by modifying the machine control data directly. This segmentation allows reusing the basic structure across multiple elements while only customizing surface structures, dramatically reducing time and computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the surface structure definition from the complete data model generation process. Instead of creating entirely separate data models for each surface structure variation, the method extracts and applies only the surface structure modifications to the machine control data after the basic slicing is complete. This extraction approach minimizes redundant computational work.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual data models are generated for each element with different surface structures, then the surface structure requirements are met, but the computational resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data model into two independent parts: the basic structure model and the surface structure model. The basic structure model is sliced once to generate machine control data, and then surface structures are added by modifying the machine control data directly. This segmentation allows reusing the basic structure across multiple elements while only customizing surface structures, dramatically reducing time and computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the surface structure definition from the complete data model generation process. Instead of creating entirely separate data models for each surface structure variation, the method extracts and applies only the surface structure modifications to the machine control data after the basic slicing is complete. This extraction approach minimizes redundant computational work.
3Manufacturing precision
If the entire data model is sliced to include surface structures, then the complete object is produced correctly, but the process is time-consuming and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data model into two independent parts: the basic structure model and the surface structure model. The basic structure model is sliced once to generate machine control data, and then surface structures are added by modifying the machine control data directly. This segmentation allows reusing the basic structure across multiple elements while only customizing surface structures, dramatically reducing time and computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs the computationally intensive slicing operation in advance on the basic structure model only. The resulting machine control data is then modified to add surface structures. This preliminary action approach ensures that the time-consuming slicing process is performed just once per basic structure type, rather than repeatedly for each surface structure variation, thereby maintaining both precision and productivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If standard slicing methods are used for each element, then complete control over surface structures is achieved, but the process requires high computing power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data model into two independent parts: the basic structure model and the surface structure model. The basic structure model is sliced once to generate machine control data, and then surface structures are added by modifying the machine control data directly. This segmentation allows reusing the basic structure across multiple elements while only customizing surface structures, dramatically reducing time and computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies surface structures locally by modifying only the relevant portions of the machine control data. Instead of re-slicing the entire data model with full surface structure complexity, the method makes targeted local modifications to add surface features only where needed. This local quality approach maintains complete control over surface structures while minimizing computational power requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer implemented method for generating machine control data for a 3D printer to produce a three-dimensional object with a three-dimensional surface structure on at least one surface of the three-dimensional object, comprises the steps of: a) Providing a three-dimensional data model (100) of the three-dimensional object to be produced; b) Defining an area (111) to be structured on a surface of the data model of the three-dimensional object; c) Conversion of the data model of the three-dimensional object provided in step a) to specific machine control data (200) for the 3D printer defining a print path of the 3D printer and optionally printing parameters of the 3D printer required for producing the three-dimensional object; d) Identifying positions on the print path lying on the area to be structured; e) Defining an offset amplitude (210) of the three-dimensional surface structure, whereby the offset amplitude represents a height and/or depth of the surface structure with respect to the surface of the three-dimensional object on which the surface structure is to be located; f) Modifying the machine control data obtained in step c) and related to the positions identified in step d), such that when printing the three-dimensional object based on the adjusted machine control data (200') the surface structure is created on the surface of the three-dimensional object with the defined offset amplitude of step e). g) Providing the modified machine control data obtained in step f), in particular in the form of a file.