Build Platform 3D Structures for Component Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
In rapid prototyping and manufacturing processes, especially in mass production, distinguishing and assigning identical or similar components produced on a shared platform is challenging due to manual labeling inefficiencies and limitations of existing identification methods like barcodes, which are time-consuming, material-intensive, and prone to errors, particularly for dental structures and restorations.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional structure is integrated onto the carrier substrate of the construction platform, featuring unique individual structures that mirror onto the base of each component, allowing for graphic and location-based identification, enabling reliable assignment of components to their corresponding orders without the need for additional labeling or support structures, and allowing for flexible component sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If barcodes are attached to components for identification, then component identification is enabled, but the area available for support structure attachment is reduced and additional separation steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The identification function is merged with the component base itself. The build platform's three-dimensional structure creates unique mirrored patterns directly on the component bases during manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate barcode attachments while maintaining identification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification information is extracted from the component base area that would otherwise be used for support attachment. By mirroring the build platform structure onto the component bases, identification is achieved without occupying additional space or requiring separate elements.
2Measurement precision
If manual labeling is used to identify components, then component identification is possible, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
Identification structures are created preliminarily during the manufacturing process itself. The three-dimensional structure on the build platform automatically imprints unique patterns on component bases as they are built, so identification is established before removal without requiring subsequent manual labeling steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-identification through the inherent structure created during manufacturing. Each component base automatically receives a unique mirrored pattern from its specific location on the build platform, eliminating the need for external human intervention in the labeling process.
3Productivity
If components are produced in large quantities on a shared build platform, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but component tracking and assignment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The build platform is segmented into multiple distinct locations, each with a unique three-dimensional structure. This segmentation allows numerous components to be manufactured simultaneously while each component retains traceable identification information from its specific location on the platform.
Solution Approach 2:
Different locations on the build platform have locally unique three-dimensional structures that create distinct mirrored patterns. This local differentiation enables tracking of individual components or groups even when produced in large quantities on a shared platform.
4Loss of information
If barcodes are generated for each component, then identification information is provided, but material consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching physical barcode materials, the identification information is copied onto the component base through mirroring of the build platform structure. This creates a permanent identification pattern using the component's own material rather than additional consumable materials.
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 method ensures clear identification and reliable assignment of components by leveraging the component base's unique structure, reducing manual labeling errors, conserving material, and enabling efficient production of components of varying sizes, while allowing for quicker platform reuse and improved adhesion in dental applications.
Implementation Method 1
During the construction process, the construction platform with the three-dimensional structure is covered with construction material, in particular in a stereolithography process. Subsequent irradiation of the construction material creates the first layers of the component base, on which a mirrored structure of the construction platform is formed
Data Source
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Figure 2
AI summary
A rapid prototyping/manufacturing build platform (100) serves as the basis for the production of multiple components (20, 40) via a rapid prototyping/manufacturing process. The build platform (100) has a support substrate (4) for carrying the components (20, 40) to be manufactured, to which a three-dimensional structure is incorporated or attached. The three-dimensional structure comprises individual structures (12, 14, 16) for each component (20, 40) to be manufactured or for each group of components (20, 40), which individual structures (12, 14, 16) are distinct from one another.