Full Color 3D Printing Tool Path Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-dimensional printing technologies are limited to single or dual-color capabilities and cannot accurately translate full-color models into machine instructions, inhibiting the fabrication of objects with a full color gamut.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that slice three-dimensional models into layers with preserved color information, generate two-dimensional polygons for each layer, and determine a tool path to apply colored materials efficiently, allowing for seamless color transitions and material deposition within the fabrication device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional three-dimensional printing technologies are used, then single or dual-color objects can be fabricated, but full-color representation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fabrication process into distinct phases: slicing the 3D model into layers with color information preserved, generating 2D polygons for each layer, determining tool paths that group polygons by color, and applying colored materials layer by layer. This segmentation enables full-color representation while maintaining manufacturing precision through systematic color management at each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing the 3D model to preserve color information during slicing, pre-generating 2D polygons with color data, and pre-determining optimal tool paths that minimize color transitions. These preliminary computations enable the fabrication device to directly translate full-color models into precise machine instructions without losing color accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If color transitions are made during fabrication, then full-color objects can be created, but exterior smoothness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary computation of tool paths that strategically plan color transitions before fabrication begins. The system determines optimal transition points and sequences to minimize visible artifacts on the exterior surface while still achieving full-color representation through careful pre-processing and path optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality standards to different regions: exterior surfaces receive special attention to maintain smoothness by minimizing color transitions or optimizing transition locations, while interior or non-visible areas allow more flexible color handling. This local quality approach ensures high exterior smoothness while maintaining full-color capability where needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If frequent color switching is performed, then full-color models can be translated, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary computation of optimized tool paths that group all polygons of the same color together before switching to the next color. This pre-planning minimizes the number of color transitions required and identifies optimal sequences that reduce material waste from cleaning and switching operations, while still accurately translating the full-color model.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of color transition frequency by optimizing the fabrication sequence. Instead of following the model's color distribution directly, the system reorders operations to minimize transitions, dynamically adjusting the tool path parameters to reduce material waste while maintaining color translation accuracy through intelligent sequencing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computing system, and one or more computer-readable storage media for fabricating full color three-dimensional objects are provided herein. The method includes transforming a three-dimensional model into instructions for a fabrication device by slicing the three-dimensional model into layers with color information preserved, generating two-dimensional polygons for each layer based on colors on faces, colors on textures, and/or gradient colors, and determining a tool path for fabricating an object from colored materials based on the two-dimensional polygons for each layer. Determining the tool path includes generating instructions that direct the fabrication device to apply colored material for all two-dimensional polygons of a same color before switching colors, smooth an exterior of the object by switching colors at an internal vertex of each two-dimensional polygon within each layer, and deposit transitional material within an infill area, a support structure, and/or an area outside the object when switching colors.