3D Object Extrusion to Common Plane for Stable Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling techniques require specialized expertise and expensive software/hardware, and often produce 3D objects that are not refined enough for accurate 3D printing, as they may not have a complete outer shell or stable support structures, leading to issues like uneven surfaces or objects that do not stick to the printing platform.
Innovation Solution
A method to extrude 3D objects onto a common plane, such as a ground plane, to create a stable base or support structure, allowing for the generation of a complete and refined 3D object that can be printed, by defining a common plane-facing surface, extending its edges to the plane, and adding a bottom surface to enclose the volume, which can be customized independently for different printers and applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If current 3D modeling techniques are used to create 3D objects, then the objects can be generated with basic 3D structure, but the objects lack refined surfaces and complete outer shells required for accurate 3D printing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating support structures and refining mesh surfaces before the 3D printing process. The extrusion operation pre-processes the 3D object by creating a solid base and ensuring complete outer shells, so that when the object is printed, it has the necessary structural integrity and surface quality without requiring manual pre-processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by providing automated tools that allow users without specialized expertise to create print-ready 3D objects. The software automatically repairs mesh defects, generates support structures, and refines surfaces, so the modeling process serves itself by compensating for the lack of user expertise through built-in intelligent algorithms.
2Reliability
If 3D objects are created without proper support structures, then the modeling process is simpler and faster, but the objects cannot stick to the printing platform or may lean over during printing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically analyzing the 3D object geometry and generating appropriate support structures before printing. The extrusion operation creates a solid base that extends from the object to the printing platform, ensuring stable attachment. This pre-generation of support structures eliminates the need for manual support design and ensures printing reliability without significant time loss.
3Manufacturing precision
If specialized software tools and hardware are required for 3D modeling, then more sophisticated 3D objects can be created, but the barriers for widespread use increase due to cost and complexity requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by providing a multi-functional platform that combines multiple specialized tools into a single accessible software solution. It integrates mesh repair, surface refinement, support structure generation, and extrusion operations in one toolset that works with various 3D input formats and outputs for different 3D printers, making sophisticated 3D modeling accessible without requiring multiple specialized expensive tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by incorporating automated algorithms that perform complex modeling tasks without requiring user expertise. The software automatically repairs mesh defects, generates support structures, and refines surfaces through intelligent algorithms, allowing anyone with basic computer skills to create high-quality 3D objects without needing specialized training or expensive professional software.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the support structure is integrated with the main 3D object, then the object can be printed in one piece, but the support structure cannot be customized independently for different printers and applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by separating the support structure generation as an independent, parameterizable operation from the main 3D object modeling. The extrusion function creates a distinct support base that can be independently configured with different parameters such as height, thickness, and geometry type. This segmentation allows the support structure to be customized for different printers and applications while keeping the main object design separate and unchanged.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques are described for generating a three dimensional (3D) object from complete or partial 3D data. Image data defining or partially defining a 3D object may be obtained. Using that data, a common plane facing surface of the 3D object may be defined that is substantially parallel to a common plane (e.g., ground plane). One or more edges of the common plane facing surface may be determined, and extended to the common plane. A bottom surface, which is bound by the one or more extended edges and is parallel with the common plane, may be generated based on the common-plane facing surface. In some aspects, defining the common plane facing surface may include segmenting the image data into a plurality of polygons, orienting at least one of the polygons to face the common plane, and discarding occluding polygons.