3D Printing Pixelated Lines for Embedded Color Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current additive manufacturing and 3D printing systems are inadequate in creating images within three-dimensional objects, limiting their application in generating color images and complex designs.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a method of generating a line with multiple color segments, or 'pixels,' which are arranged in a pattern to form a pixel array, allowing for the creation of images on the surface or within three-dimensional objects through selective deposition in layers, using techniques such as inkjet printing and extrusion, enabling the use of various color models and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional 3D printing systems deposit extrusion layers to build objects, then three-dimensional objects can be created, but the systems cannot create images or color patterns within the objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the extrusion material into discrete color segments or 'pixels' along the extrusion path. Each segment can be independently controlled to display different colors, enabling image creation within the three-dimensional object structure without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different colors to different local segments of the extrusion material based on the desired image pattern. By controlling the color of each segment locally along the extrusion path, the system creates images within the object while maintaining the overall additive manufacturing process
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems create monochromatic objects, then the printing process is simple, but the systems cannot create multi-color or grayscale images
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single extrusion mechanism that can universally deposit multiple colors by segmenting the material stream. The same extrusion head that deposits monochromatic material can now create multi-color images by controlling the color composition of each segment, eliminating the need for multiple specialized printing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the color properties of the extrusion material along the deposition path. By dynamically adjusting which color segments are deposited at each position, the system transitions from static monochromatic printing to dynamic multi-color image creation within the same manufacturing process
3Adaptability or versatility
If systems deposit material layer by layer to build 3D objects, then the objects take shape, but no images or patterns are generated within the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds the color dimension to the traditional layered 3D printing process. While conventional printing varies material properties only in three spatial dimensions, this system introduces color as an additional dimension, allowing images to be encoded within the object structure during the same layer-by-layer deposition process
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
This approach enables the production of three-dimensional objects with embedded images, offering a wide range of applications by leveraging 3D printing techniques to create pixelated lines that form desired images on the object's surface or within its structure, enhancing the capability to produce colored and textured objects.
Implementation Method 1
In a further embodiment, the line extruder comprises an inkjet printing assembly configured to color the line and generate pixels in the line
Implementation Method 2
a conventional system includes depositing an extrusion on a surface or plane (2D) in order to 'draw' layers of a three dimensional object being printed
Data Source
AI summary
A system for generating three dimensional objects that include an image, and methods for manufacturing and using same. Some embodiments include an elongated line for generating a three dimensional object via additive manufacturing having an image defined by a pixel array, where the line includes a plurality of discrete pixels disposed along the length of the line, the pixels configured to generate the pixel array. Other embodiments include an extruder system configured to extrude a line. Further embodiments include a method of generating a three dimensional object via additive manufacturing having an image defined by a pixel array