3D Print Data Division with Self-Positioning Joint Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing models using 3D shape data face challenges in dividing models into portions with predetermined shapes and sizes, particularly when the model size exceeds the molding apparatus's capacity, leading to difficulties in positioning and joint deviation during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A print data dividing apparatus that divides 3D image data into areas with specific joint surfaces and determines the type of joining process based on the joint surface's thickness or length, generating 3D shape data for division printing to facilitate easy alignment and prevent joint deviation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a model is rectilinearly divided without fitting portions, then the division process is simple, but positioning during assembly becomes difficult and joint deviation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The model is divided into multiple areas with joint portions, where each area contains fitting shapes (convex or concave) at its boundaries. This segmentation approach allows for systematic positioning while maintaining manageable division complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different types of joint portions (first kind with convex fitting shapes, second kind with concave fitting shapes) are assigned to different areas based on their position and joint surface characteristics. This local differentiation enables precise positioning without requiring complex division processes throughout the entire model.
2Volume of moving object
If the model size exceeds the molding apparatus capacity, then the model must be divided into multiple portions, but joint positioning and alignment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Fitting portions (convex or concave shapes) are pre-formed as integral parts of each area during the printing process. These preliminary features enable automatic positioning and alignment when areas are assembled, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly positioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint portions are designed to be self-positioning, where the convex fitting shapes of one area automatically fit into the concave fitting shapes of adjacent areas. This self-service mechanism ensures accurate alignment without requiring external positioning tools or complex assembly procedures.
3Manufacturing precision
If joint portions are added to enable positioning, then assembly accuracy improves, but the complexity of generating 3D shape data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines the type of joint portion (first kind or second kind) based on parameters such as joint surface area, position of the area, and neighboring relationships. By automatically selecting joint types based on these parameters, the system maintains positioning accuracy while managing data generation complexity through rule-based decision making.
Solution Approach 2:
A single joint portion design system handles multiple functions: positioning, alignment, and type selection based on area characteristics. The determining unit universally applies rules to all areas, selecting appropriate joint types without requiring separate complex procedures for each area, thus managing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A print data dividing apparatus includes a dividing unit configured to divide three-dimensional (3D) image data, having image information and distance information, into a plurality of areas, a determining unit configured to determine a kind of a shape of a joint surface of a target area, among the plurality of areas, on the basis of a position of the target area and a thickness of the target area, such that the shape has a concave/convex portion, and the joint surface is fitted to another joint surface of another area, of the plurality of areas, that is adjacent to the target area, and a generating unit configured to generate 3D shape data for division printing of the target area in which a joint portion, corresponding to the determined kind of joint surface has been provided for the joint surface.