3D Printed Wrapper for Object Information Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mass manufacturing of three-dimensionally printed objects, associating information with physical products is challenging due to shape variability, which complicates the imposition and retention of machine-readable codes or text, and post-fabrication processes often remove or corrupt such data.
Innovation Solution
A method where a three-dimensional printer co-manufactures an object and a wrapper simultaneously, with the wrapper enclosing the object and including information like codes, images, or text, using data that combines design and dimension data to create a structure that can securely hold the object and facilitate easy removal, and can include machine-readable or human-readable indicia, RFID tags, or raised barcodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If machine-readable codes or text are imposed on three-dimensionally printed objects, then information association is achieved, but the codes are removed or corrupted by post-fabrication processes
Solution Approach 1:
The solution separates the information carrier (wrapper) from the product (three-dimensionally printed object). The wrapper is printed separately and then applied to enclose the object, so post-fabrication processes affecting the object do not damage the information on the wrapper.
Solution Approach 2:
The wrapper with information is prepared in advance before the object undergoes post-fabrication processes. This preliminary preparation ensures that information is established before any processes that might remove or corrupt codes are applied to the object.
2Adaptability or versatility
If machine-readable codes are imposed on three-dimensionally printed objects, then information association is enabled, but shape variability complicates imposition and retention
Solution Approach 1:
The wrapper serves multiple functions: it encloses the object for protection, provides a standardized surface for information imposition, and facilitates handling. This multi-functionality resolves the complexity of adapting information imposition to varying object shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The wrapper acts as an intermediary between the variable-shaped object and the information imposition process. By providing a consistent, planar surface on the wrapper, the system simplifies code application regardless of the underlying object's shape variability.
3Loss of information
If a wrapper is added to enclose the object with information, then information association is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process merges the creation of the object and the wrapper into a coordinated workflow. Both components are three-dimensionally printed using the same additive manufacturing technology, allowing integration of processes while maintaining simplicity through material and equipment consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing an object via three-dimensional printing is disclosed. Data regarding the object is received. The object is three-dimensionally printed from the data. A wrapper is also three-dimensionally printed from the data. The wrapper encloses the object and includes information regarding the object.