3D Printed Object Component Embedding via CAD Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies lack the ability to easily embed static or dynamic data within fabricated objects, limiting the integration of identification tags, sensors, and other components that could track object conditions or properties over time.
Innovation Solution
A CAD system that allows users to select and integrate additional components, such as machine-readable tags, sensors, or biometric tags, into 3D models before printing, enabling the embedding of data like object identification, condition tracking, or owner authentication directly into the printed objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional 3D printing is used without additional components, then the printing process is simple and fast, but the objects cannot store or track data over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the data embedding function from the main object model by introducing separate additional components (tags, sensors) that can be independently selected and integrated into the 3D printing model, allowing data functionality to be added without complicating the core object design
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by providing a library of pre-designed additional components (machine-readable tags, sensors, biometric tags) that users can select and integrate before printing, eliminating the need to design data-bearing components from scratch and reducing model complexity
2Reliability
If additional components are integrated into 3D models, then objects can embed and track data, but the CAD system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements universality by creating a standardized additional component library that can be applied across different 3D printing projects and object types. The same tag or sensor components can be integrated into various models, making the CAD system versatile without requiring custom designs for each application
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary approach by introducing a library of standardized additional components that mediate between the user's data needs and the 3D printing process. These pre-fabricated components serve as intermediaries that bridge the gap between simple printing and complex data embedding requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If static or dynamic data is embedded in 3D printed objects, then object tracking and condition monitoring are enabled, but the fabrication process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by preparing and storing a library of additional components with known data embedding capabilities before the printing process. Users can select from pre-vetted components (tags, sensors) that are designed to work with the 3D printing process, eliminating the need to develop custom data embedding solutions for each project
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the fabrication process into two independent parts: the main object geometry and the additional data-bearing components. This segmentation allows the main object to be printed using standard 3D printing processes while the additional components are integrated separately, maintaining fabrication simplicity while enabling data tracking
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a storage medium, for integrating components into objects that are to be 3D printed. One of the methods includes obtaining a three-dimensional model of a first object; receiving an input identifying an additional component; generating a digital representation of the additional component; integrating the digital representation of the additional component with the three-dimensional model; and providing the three-dimensional model with the integrated digital representation to a 3D printer for fabrication.