3D Printing Distributed Nodes for On-Demand Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for leveraging economies of scale in production often result in inefficiencies such as distribution challenges and production of unwanted goods, due to the need for significant capital outlay and distant facilities.
Innovation Solution
A system combining a three-dimensional printer and a computing device to form objects with desired functionality by configuring and interconnecting components, such as LEDs, sensors, and processing units, using additive manufacturing techniques, allowing for the creation of objects that represent data items and extend user interaction with computing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional production techniques are used to leverage economies of scale, then production cost is reduced, but distribution efficiency deteriorates and production waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized production process into distributed 3D printing nodes, where each node independently produces objects locally. This segmentation eliminates the need for centralized manufacturing facilities and long-distance distribution, resolving the contradiction between production cost and distribution efficiency by enabling local on-demand production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital models as copies that can be replicated indefinitely without additional manufacturing cost. These digital blueprints are transmitted to distributed 3D printers, allowing unlimited reproduction of objects locally, thus maintaining low production costs while eliminating distribution inefficiencies associated with physical goods transport.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional production techniques are used to leverage economies of scale, then production cost is reduced, but production waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements on-demand production where objects are manufactured only when needed, based on received print jobs. This preliminary planning through digital model storage and selective activation of printing operations eliminates overproduction and inventory waste, resolving the contradiction between maintaining low production costs and reducing substance loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the production paradigm from mass production with fixed parameters to on-demand production with variable parameters. Each print job can be customized based on specific requirements, allowing precise material usage and eliminating waste associated with producing standard items that may not be needed.
3Loss of substance
If three-dimensional printing is used to form customized objects, then production waste is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated systems where the 3D printing apparatus autonomously receives digital models, processes print jobs, and manufactures objects without human intervention. This self-service capability manages the inherent system complexity through automation, allowing customized on-demand production that reduces waste while keeping operational complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the 3D printing system to handle multiple object types and customizations through a single universal platform. The system can process various digital models and produce different objects using the same apparatus, reducing the need for specialized equipment for each product type and managing complexity through multi-functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient production of customized objects that provide desired functionality, reducing waste and improving distribution by forming objects based on user-defined criteria and logical relationships between data items, thereby enhancing user experience and reducing production inefficiencies.
Implementation Method 1
The three dimensional plastic article is formed by exposing a liquid photopolymer or other material capable of selective solidification or curing to a source of energy, preferably a laser beam
Data Source
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AI summary
Three-dimensional printing techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a system includes a three-dimensional printer and a computing device. The three-dimensional printer has a three-dimensional printing mechanism that is configured to form a physical object in three dimensions. The computing device is communicatively coupled to the three-dimensional printer and includes a three-dimensional printing module implemented at least partially in hardware to cause the three-dimensional printer to form the physical object in three dimensions as having functionality configured to communicate with a computing device.