3D Print Support Orientation to Minimize Scarring on Selected Faces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D printing methods require tedious manual manipulation to minimize scarring from support elements on visible faces of printed objects, as current technologies do not account for subjective user preferences regarding scarring, leading to inefficient and time-consuming post-processing.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that automatically orients the 3D print model relative to the build platform to minimize scarring on user-selected faces while maintaining sturdy support, using user input for translation, rotation, and support element placement, with calculations based on surface areas and bi-rotational axes to optimize support placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If support elements are arranged based on structural considerations to provide sturdy support, then the reliability of printing support is improved, but the scarring on visible faces increases and manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different support strategies to different regions of the model. User-selected faces receive priority protection from support elements through automated re-orientation, while other regions maintain standard support arrangements. This local differentiation allows visible faces to remain scarring-free while other areas provide necessary structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically re-orientates the model based on user selections and support requirements. Rather than fixing the model orientation beforehand, the system adapts the orientation automatically to minimize scarring on selected faces while maintaining adequate support, creating a dynamic optimization process.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual manipulation is performed to minimize scarring on selected faces, then the surface finish quality is improved, but the productivity decreases due to tedious and time-consuming operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic re-orientation and support element placement based on user selections. Instead of requiring manual manipulation, the software autonomously calculates optimal orientations and positions support elements to minimize scarring on selected faces, making the process self-service and dramatically improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical manipulation with automated computational algorithms. The computer automatically orients the model and positions support elements based on mathematical calculations and user preferences, substituting tedious manual operations with efficient automated processing.
3Manufacturing precision
If the model is re-oriented manually to avoid supports on selected faces, then the surface finish quality is improved, but the device complexity increases due to repeated manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs re-orientation and support placement calculations in advance, before actual printing begins. By pre-calculating the optimal orientation that minimizes scarring on selected faces and pre-positioning support elements, the system eliminates the need for repeated manual adjustments during the printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex manual manipulation operations with automated software algorithms. The computer automatically handles model re-orientation and support element placement based on user selections, substituting complex manual procedures with simple automated operations that reduce overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to computer implemented method of supporting on support elements during 3D printing on a print platform of a 3D print object to be 3D printed based on a 3D print model, comprising: - obtaining the 3D model by the computer; and - displaying a visual representation of the 3D model on a display connected to the computer, CHARACTERISED BY - displaying the visual representation of the model with individually user-selectable faces; - receiving, by the computer, input from the user on a selected one of the faces, for support by a minimum number of added support elements to minimize scarring of the object. Based on this input, the computer implemented method proceeds to automatically orient the model, place supports, and3D print the object from the model. The user is relieved from tedious or cumbersome manipulations of the model before printing.