3D Surface Tool Paths Using 2D Unwrapping and Remapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of generating a tool path for automated treatment of 3D object surfaces is complex and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a computerized device that converts a 3D shape representation into a 2D representation, generates a 2D tool path, and then converts it back to a 3D tool path to control an applicator or removal tool for treating the 3D object surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a direct 3D tool path generation method is used, then the tool path can be generated for complex 3D surfaces, but the process becomes inconveniently complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by converting the 3D surface representation into a 2D development (unwrapped mesh), generating the tool path in 2D space where it is computationally simpler, and then mapping it back to 3D. This resolves the contradiction by trading direct 3D complexity for 2D simplicity while achieving the same manufacturing goal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a 2D tool path representation as an intermediary between the 3D object model and the final 3D tool path. This intermediary simplifies the generation process by working in 2D space first, then transforming back to 3D, thereby reducing the complexity of direct 3D tool path generation.
2Productivity
If automated treatment is implemented, then productivity increases, but the requirement for complex tool path generation processes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By generating tool paths in 2D space through surface development, the patent simplifies the computational process required for automation, enabling automated treatment systems to operate more efficiently without being burdened by complex 3D path calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a 2D copy (development/unwrapped mesh) of the 3D surface, allowing tool paths to be generated on this simplified 2D representation. This copying approach enables automated processing by working with a simpler representation that can be easily converted back to 3D for execution.
3Device complexity
If 3D to 2D conversion is performed, then tool path generation is simplified, but additional transformation steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary surface development (3D to 2D conversion) before tool path generation, preparing the surface representation in advance. This preliminary action allows the actual tool path generation to proceed efficiently in 2D space, with the conversion overhead paid only once rather than during iterative path calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct 3D mechanical path planning with a 2D computational approach using surface development mathematics. This substitution of the path generation mechanism from 3D spatial reasoning to 2D coordinate transformation simplifies the overall process despite adding conversion steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of treating the surface of a 3D object, comprising obtaining a digital 3D shape representation defining characteristics of the object; using a computerised device to convert the 3D shape representation into a digital 2D shape representation defining the 3D surface of the object as it if laid out flat; using the computerised device to generate a digital 2D tool path representation defining movements an applicator or removal tool would take to treat the surface of the shape defined by the 2D shape representation; using the computerised device to convert the 2D tool path representation to a digital 3D tool path representation defining movements that the applicator or removal tool will take to deposit material on, or remove it from, the surface to treat the 3D object; and using the 3D tool path representation to control the applicator tool or removal tool to treat the 3D object.