Intelligent 3D Printing Parameter Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Non-optimized 3D print parameters lead to longer print times, lower quality prints, increased machine downtime, and higher costs due to material wastage and maintenance, particularly affecting users without experience or resources in selecting appropriate parameters.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for intelligent 3D printing that dynamically adjusts print parameters using a closed-loop feedback configuration with sensors and machine learning algorithms, optimizing parameters based on user inputs, historical data, and simulation analysis to create a customized 3D print profile, enabling the selection of optimal parameters without trial and error.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If non-optimized 3D print parameters are used, then the printing process is simpler to operate, but print quality deteriorates and print time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of parameter selectionVSAvoidprint quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-optimization by automatically selecting print parameters based on the 3D model characteristics and material properties. The computer system analyzes the model geometry, identifies critical features, and autonomously determines optimal printing parameters without requiring user expertise in parameter selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary analysis of the 3D model before printing to identify critical features and pre-determine optimal parameters. The computer system processes the model data, performs simulations, and prepares the parameter set in advance, eliminating the need for trial-and-error during the actual printing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of time

If non-optimized 3D print parameters are used, then the setup process is faster, but machine downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter selection timeVSAvoidmachine throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary optimization calculations before printing by analyzing the 3D model and material properties to determine the optimal parameter set in advance. This pre-processing step eliminates parameter adjustment delays during printing and reduces machine downtime between jobs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that learn from previous printing results to continuously improve parameter selection. By analyzing successful and failed prints, the system refines its parameter optimization algorithms, reducing setup time for subsequent printing jobs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Loss of substance

If non-optimized 3D print parameters are used, then material usage is reduced for testing, but material wastage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial efficiencyVSAvoidprint success rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary simulations and virtual prototyping before actual printing to validate parameter selections. By testing parameters in simulation environments first, the system identifies optimal settings without consuming physical material, thereby reducing wastage while ensuring print reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements protective measures by performing virtual testing and validation before actual printing. This beforehand cushioning through simulation allows the system to identify and correct parameter issues before they result in failed physical prints and material wastage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

4Ease of operation

If non-optimized 3D print parameters are used, then the printing process is simpler, but maintenance requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of operationVSAvoidmachine maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-optimization of printing parameters, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust settings. This reduces operational complexity while maintaining optimal print quality, thereby reducing strain on machine components and lowering maintenance requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10073424B2Intelligent 3D printing through optimization of 3D print parameters
Publication Date: 2018.09.11 AUTODESK INC
  • US10073424B2 patent drawing
  • US10073424B2 patent drawing
  • US10073424B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for improving 3D printing systems and techniques include, in one aspect, a system including: three dimensional (3D) printer hardware; and at least one computer communicatively coupled with the 3D printer hardware, the at least one computer programed to receive 3D print type inputs for an object to be 3D printed and create a 3D print profile including parameters for 3D printing the object using the 3D printer hardware by matching the 3D print type inputs against a database.