3D Scripting Language for Customizable Model Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies require complex skills in solid modeling and programming, making it difficult for individuals and small businesses to sell custom 3D printed products without sharing the underlying 3D object file, which limits control over manipulation and production.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows shop owners to create 3D printable objects as scripts with parameters, enabling the creation of a graphical user interface for customers to customize and purchase objects without sharing the original file, using a 3D object manipulation platform that performs tasks via API endpoints and allows rendering and pricing calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If shop owners share the underlying 3D object file with customers, then customers can download and modify the file for subsequent 3D printing, but the shop owner loses control over how the object may be manipulated and when and how the object may be produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 3D object file into two distinct components: a script file containing the parametric model definition and a separate data file containing the actual 3D geometry. This segmentation allows the shop owner to distribute the script file which enables customization through parameter modification, while the original 3D object file remains protected and under the shop owner's control. Customers can modify parameters in the script without accessing or altering the core 3D model data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential customizable elements (parameters and script logic) from the complete 3D object file and separates them into a standalone script file. This extraction allows customers to obtain and modify only the necessary parameter definitions without receiving the complete 3D object file, thereby maintaining shop owner control over the original design while enabling customer customization capabilities.
2Device complexity
If shop owners allow customers to customize objects without sharing the underlying 3D object file, then control over production and distribution is maintained, but customers need advanced technical skills in solid modeling and programming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the 3D object's customizable parameters in the form of a script file with parameter definitions. Instead of requiring customers to work with the complex original 3D model, the system provides a parameter-based script that can be modified through simpler operations. This copying approach maintains control over the original file while reducing the technical barrier for customer customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the complex solid modeling problem into a parameter modification task. By defining the 3D object through a script with explicit parameters (dimensions, materials, features), the system allows customers to customize objects by changing parameter values rather than performing complex solid modeling operations. This parameter-based approach significantly reduces the technical skills required while maintaining precise control over the design.
3Ease of operation
If a graphical user interface is created to enable customer customization, then user-friendly access is provided, but multiple skill sets are required including solid modeling, programming, front end development, and server development
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate components into an integrated system. The script file combines the parametric model definition, customization logic, and interface generation capabilities into a single unified format. This merging eliminates the need for separate solid modeling software, programming environments, and interface development tools, allowing shop owners to create customizable 3D products using a single integrated approach that reduces the required skill sets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal script file format that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it defines the 3D object geometry, stores customizable parameters, generates the graphical user interface, and controls the printing process. This multi-functional script replaces the need for separate tools for solid modeling, interface design, and print management, making the system accessible to users without requiring expertise in all these separate domains.
Data Source
AI summary
As three-dimensional (3D) printing and additive manufacturing becomes a way for individuals and companies to distribute physical goods, there is a growing need for creators of physical goods to enable customers to customize 3D printed objects while protecting core electronic assets in the form of the files used to define and print the objects. Server-side rendering of 3D object images provides an opportunity to protect 3D object files while offering performance advantages. A scripting language may be central to delivering a seamless user experience interacting with 3D object models on client devices. Object creators and vendors may rely on the scripting language to create user interfaces for selling customizable objects. And once the user interface is developed, it may provide the basis for users accessing, viewing, manipulating, selecting materials, rendering, pricing, and printing a range of 3D objects.