3D Part Quote Generation Using 2D Build Plate Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional fabrication methods, including additive manufacturing, face challenges with high overhead costs due to the need for skilled labor and complex manufacturing settings, particularly in orienting and laying out parts on build plates for 3D printing, which can be time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An automated layout process using a factory server that generates a 2D footprint for each part instance and applies a two-dimensional packing algorithm to arrange them on a build plate, reducing the need for manual intervention and computational intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a 3D packing process is used to place different part instances on the build plate, then the layout can be automated, but the process becomes relatively computationally intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the 3D packing problem into a 2D footprint arrangement problem by projecting part instances onto the build plate plane. This dimensionality reduction simplifies the computational complexity while maintaining the essential layout functionality, resolving the contradiction between automation and computational intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the complex 3D packing task into simpler sub-tasks: generating 2D footprints from 3D models, arranging footprints on the build plate, and then using the arranged footprints to guide 3D printing. This segmentation reduces the overall computational burden while achieving automation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If manual manipulation is used to create the layout of part instances on the build plate, then computational resources are saved, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated layout generation using 2D footprints, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The automated process quickly generates optimal or near-optimal layouts without requiring skilled labor, thus saving time while using minimal computational resources compared to full 3D packing algorithms.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional forming methods with template components are used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but overhead costs increase due to expensive template components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable support material in additive manufacturing that is consumed during the printing process, replacing expensive reusable template components. The support material is inexpensive and can be discarded after serving its temporary function of enabling complex geometry fabrication, thus reducing overhead costs while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for generating a quote for fabrication of a part to be fabricated is disclosed. The method includes receiving, from a customer device associated with a customer, a design request for a part to be fabricated by a fabrication process. The design request includes a three-dimensional (3D) model file representing the part to be fabricated. The method further includes generating a feature vector for the part based on the model file and determining a total height of the part to be fabricated. Further, the method includes identifying one or more candidate orientations for the part to be fabricated and generating, as a function of a geometry of the part and a candidate orientation of the one or more candidate orientations, fabrication parameters for the part to be fabricated, wherein the fabrication parameters include a cost to fabricate the part and estimated completion date.