3D Printing Path Generation for Complex Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional object printing methods lack an efficient method to generate data representing the route for the ink-jet head to move effectively over complex workpiece shapes, requiring a solution to easily adapt the printing path based on the workpiece's size and shape.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first data processing step to acquire initial route data in the workpiece coordinate system, a second step to acquire head reference point data in the robot coordinate system, and a third step to generate print route data, allowing the ink-jet head to move accordingly while the robot operates based on this data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed printing route is used in existing ink-jet printing methods, then the printing process is simple to implement, but it cannot adapt to workpieces with various shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter representation of printing routes from fixed coordinate values to parametric expressions based on workpiece geometry. By representing routes using parameters that can be adjusted according to workpiece shape and size, the system achieves adaptability without requiring complete route redesign for each new workpiece type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual model (copy) of the workpiece and generates printing routes in this virtual space before transferring them to the actual printing process. This allows route optimization and adaptation to be performed on the virtual model, reducing the complexity of direct real-time route generation for diverse workpiece shapes.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom printing routes are generated for each workpiece shape, then printing precision is improved, but the time and effort required for route generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary generation of printing routes based on workpiece geometric parameters before the actual printing process. By pre-calculating routes using parametric models and storing them for quick retrieval and adjustment, the system achieves high printing precision while minimizing the time required for route generation during production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parametric representations of printing routes that can be quickly adjusted by changing geometric parameters rather than regenerating entire routes. This allows rapid adaptation to different workpiece shapes and sizes while maintaining precision, significantly reducing the time investment required for route generation.
3Manufacturing precision
If the ink-jet head moves freely to reach all workpiece surfaces, then complete coverage is achieved, but the robot may encounter collisions or stressful orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an additional dimension of freedom by enabling the workpiece to rotate or reposition during the printing process. This allows the ink-jet head to maintain a more favorable, collision-free orientation while still achieving complete surface coverage through coordinated movement in multiple degrees of freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the printing route based on real-time robot position and orientation constraints. By continuously adapting the route to avoid collisions and stressful orientations while maintaining coverage completeness, the system ensures both manufacturing precision and operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a three-dimensional object printing method using a head and a robot that changes relative position and relative orientation of a workpiece and the head. The method includes a first data processing step of acquiring first initial route data that represents, in a workpiece coordinate system, a route along which the head is to move; a second data processing step of acquiring first head reference point data that represents, in a robot coordinate system, position and orientation of the head; a third data processing step of generating, based on the first initial route data and the first head reference point data, first print route data that represents, in the robot coordinate system, the route along which the head is to move; and a first printing step of ejecting the liquid from the head onto the workpiece while the robot is operated based on the first print route data.