3D Scanning-Printing Device With Single Projector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D scanning and printing technologies require separate devices, leading to complex operation procedures and higher costs due to the need for distinct 3D scanning and printing devices.

Innovation Solution

A 3D scanning-printing device integrating a platform, processor, reflecting module, projector, and 3D printing module, where the processor controls the reflecting module to move between positions for projecting structured light for scanning and cutting layer images for printing, using a single projector to combine 3D scanning and printing functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate 3D scanning device and 3D printing device are used, then scanning and printing functions are achieved, but device complexity and operation procedure become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D scanning and printing functionVSAvoidoperation procedure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a 3D scanning device and a 3D printing device into a single integrated device. The scanning module includes a projector that projects structured light patterns onto the object, a camera that captures the deformed light patterns, and a processor that calculates 3D spatial information. The printing module includes a printing head that deposits material layer by layer. By merging these functions into one device, the patent eliminates the need for separate scanning and printing devices, thereby reducing device complexity and simplifying operation procedures while maintaining both scanning and printing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate 3D scanning device and 3D printing device are used, then scanning and printing functions are achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D scanning and printing functionVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functional modules (scanning module with projector and camera, printing module with printing head, and processing module) into a single device. This merging reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, purchased, and maintained, thereby lowering the overall cost compared to acquiring separate scanning and printing devices while providing both functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of moving object

If single projector is used for both scanning and printing, then device size is minimized, but functional integration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidfunctional integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single projector that serves dual purposes: during scanning, it projects structured light patterns onto the object to be scanned; during printing, it projects cutting layer images to guide the printing process. The processor controls the projector's operation mode based on whether scanning or printing is required, enabling one projector to perform multiple functions. This multi-functionality minimizes device size by eliminating the need for separate projectors while managing functional integration complexity through software control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (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

This integration simplifies the operation procedure, reduces costs, and minimizes device size by enabling both 3D scanning and printing within a single device.

Implementation Method 1

the projector projects a structured light to the object so as to produce 3D spatial information

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStructured light projection: Light

Implementation Method 2

the reflecting module reflects the cutting layer image to the 3D printing module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9649814B23D scanning-printing device
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 DELTA ELECTRONICS INC(CN)
  • US9649814B2 patent drawing
  • US9649814B2 patent drawing
  • US9649814B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A 3D scanning-printing device includes a platform, a processor, a reflecting module, a projector and a 3D printing module. The platform carries an object. The processor is electrically connected with the platform, the reflecting module, the projector and the 3D printing module. The processor controls the reflecting module to move between a first position and a second position. When the reflecting module is located at the first position, the projector projects a structured light to the object so as to produce 3D spatial information. The processor receives the 3D spatial information and produces 3D printing information. When the reflecting module is located at the second position, the projector projects a cutting layer image according to the 3D printing information, and the reflecting module reflects the cutting layer image to the 3D printing module.