3D Printing Toolpaths With Segment-Level Parameter Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies lack the ability to specify printing parameters at a granular level within a 3D model, limiting the customization and control of the printing process, as parameters can only be set globally, making it difficult to achieve high accuracy and precise control over the printed part.
Innovation Solution
The system allows users to specify parameters interactively at a sub-slice level, enabling fine-grained control of printing configurations for arbitrary portions of a 3D object by partitioning the model into segments and generating customized printing instructions based on user input, which can be applied at multiple levels within the printing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If global parameters are used for printing, then the printing process is simple to control, but the manufacturing precision and customization capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the printing parameters into multiple hierarchical levels (global, slice, and segment levels), allowing different degrees of control granularity. The 3D model is divided into slices, and each slice can be divided into segments, with parameters applicable at each level. This segmentation enables precise local control without requiring complete redesign of the entire parameter control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by allowing different parameter settings for different segments within slices. Users can specify distinct printing parameters (such as temperature, speed, or material properties) for specific segments of the 3D model, enabling customization of printing conditions according to local geometric features or functional requirements of different parts of the object.
2Adaptability or versatility
If parameters are specified globally, then the operation is easy, but the adaptability to different regions of the 3D model is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic parameter assignment where parameters can be assigned at different hierarchical levels (global, slice, segment). The system dynamically determines which level's parameters apply to each region based on the user's needs. This dynamic structure allows the same printing system to adapt to both simple global control scenarios and complex localized control requirements without requiring fundamentally different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a hierarchical dimension to parameter control by introducing multiple levels (global → slice → segment). Instead of only global parameters or only local parameters, the system creates a multi-dimensional parameter space where parameters can be defined at different scales. This hierarchical dimensionality allows users to navigate from coarse global control to fine local control systematically.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods and systems for printing a three-dimensional part. The method comprises: receiving in computer memory a digital model of said three-dimensional object; using one or more computer processors to partition said digital model of said three-dimensional part into a plurality of partitions, wherein a given partition of said plurality of partitions comprises a plurality of slices, and wherein a given slice of said plurality of slices comprises a plurality of segments; receiving, from a user, one or more parameters that specify a printing configuration for at least one segment of said plurality of segments; and generating printing instructions based at least in part on said one or more parameters, which printing instructions are usable by a print head to print said three-dimensional object.