3D Shaping Tool with Localization and Automatic Cut Deactivation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for achieving three-dimensional shaping of objects by material removal, such as in gardening or clay modeling, require either costly automated systems or extensive human training, and are limited by the need for precise handling to avoid errors that can destroy the final shape, especially for complex designs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a tool with a cutting or grinding function, a localization means to determine the tool's position relative to the desired 3D-shape, and a control means to deactivate the function when inside the shape, allowing for precise material removal and preventing errors, with optional wireless communication and augmented reality assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fully automated cutting or machining systems are used to achieve desired 3D-shapes, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A localization means (mediator) is introduced between the manual tool and the desired 3D-shape to determine the tool's position relative to the shape. The control means uses this position information to activate or deactivate the cutting function automatically, providing automated control without requiring a fully automated machining system. This intermediary approach achieves precision while avoiding the complexity of complete automation.
2Device complexity
If a human operator handles the tool for cutting or grinding to achieve desired 3D-shapes, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to the need for extensive training and risk of human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the tool's position relative to the desired 3D-shape through the localization means and provides feedback to the control means. Based on this feedback, the control means automatically activates or deactivates the cutting function. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables a human operator to achieve precise shaping results without requiring extensive training, as the system prevents errors by automatically stopping cutting when the tool approaches the desired shape boundaries.
3Manufacturing precision
If extensive training is provided to human operators to achieve reliable 3D-shaping, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the function of training and error prevention automatically through the localization means and control means. Instead of requiring human operators to undergo extensive training to learn precise shaping techniques, the system itself monitors position and automatically controls the cutting function to prevent errors. This self-service approach transfers the intelligence from the operator to the system, eliminating the need for prolonged training periods while maintaining high precision.
4Ease of operation
If wire mesh skeletons are used as indicators for complex shapes, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate due to limited size adjustment capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses digital representation of the desired 3D-shape with adjustable parameters instead of fixed physical wire mesh skeletons. The localization means can determine tool position relative to shapes of various sizes and complexities by processing position data and comparing it with the digital shape model. This allows easy adjustment of shape parameters including size, while maintaining ease of operation through automated position monitoring and cutting control.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention regards a system and method for assisting reductive shaping of an object into a desired 3D-shape by removing material. The system comprises a tool and a localization means. The tool is configured to remove material from an object by means of a cutting function or a grinding function performed by a working head of the tool. The localization means determines a position of the working head relative to the desired 3D-shape. Each time the grinding function or cutting function would remove material from an inside of the desired 3D-shape the cutting or grinding function is deactivated.