Embedded ID-Tag Inserts for 3D Object Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

In rapid prototyping and manufacturing, identifying and tracking 3D objects built using layer-based additive techniques is challenging, especially in large-volume production environments where multiple objects require post-build operations.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an identification-tag (ID-tag) insert into 3D objects during the build process using layer-based additive techniques, which is partially embedded within the object, allowing for the embedding of information such as handling instructions, routing details, and safety information that can be read post-build.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If layer-based additive techniques are used to build 3D objects in large-volume production, then productivity is improved, but the ability to identify and track individual objects deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction volumeVSAvoidobject identification

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The ID-tag insert is embedded in the 3D object during the build process itself, before the object leaves the manufacturing system. This preliminary action ensures identification capability is built-in from the start, eliminating the need for post-build attachment and ensuring tracking information is available immediately for high-volume production workflows

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The identification tag is merged with the 3D object by embedding it within the build material during additive manufacturing. The tag becomes an integrated part of the object rather than a separate component, ensuring the identification information travels with the object through all post-build operations and routing processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Loss of information

If ID-tag insert is embedded in 3D object during build process, then object identification capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveobject identificationVSAvoidbuild process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The build system automatically handles ID-tag insert placement as part of the standard build process. The system self-manages the integration of identification components without requiring separate manual intervention or complex external equipment, maintaining operational simplicity despite the added functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The ID-tag insert serves multiple functions: it provides identification information, enables tracking throughout the production workflow, and can potentially store routing instructions. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated component that doesn't significantly increase overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10226916B2Method for building and using three-dimensional objects containing embedded identification-tag inserts

Publication Date: 2019.03.12 STRATASYS INC

AI summary

A method for building a three-dimensional object containing an identification-tag insert, the method comprising performing a build operation to form layers of the three-dimensional object using a layer-based additive technique, placing the identification-tag insert on at least a portion of the layers during the build operation, and reading information from the identification-tag insert.