Lattice Structure Patterning Through Zoned Seed Density Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating lattice structures with identifiable patterns are inefficient and do not allow for the precise control of cell density and edge properties, leading to suboptimal material usage and structural properties.
Innovation Solution
A processor-based system arranges seeds at different density levels within a digital model to create lattice structures with identifiable patterns by growing cells from these seeds, allowing for the differentiation of cell sizes and edge properties, which can be fabricated using a 3D fabrication system to produce lattice structures with visible patterns and internal support structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If random or semi-random seed placement is used to generate lattice structures, then the fabrication process is simple, but the pattern visibility and manufacturing precision are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying seed density in different spatial zones to create distinct pattern regions. Seeds are placed at higher density in areas requiring pattern visibility and at lower density in other areas, allowing different parts of the lattice structure to have different properties. This enables identifiable patterns to emerge from the cell growth process while maintaining fabrication simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-arranging seeds in specific density distributions before the cell growth process begins. The seed placement pattern is determined in advance based on the desired final lattice pattern, allowing the subsequent automated growth process to naturally produce the intended structure without requiring complex real-time control during fabrication.
2Strength
If uniform seed density is used throughout the lattice structure, then the fabrication process is simple, but the structural properties and material distribution are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different seed densities to different spatial zones within the lattice structure. This allows regions requiring higher strength to have denser cell distributions while other regions can have lower density, optimizing structural properties throughout the object without complicating the overall fabrication process through zone-based seed placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the seed density parameter across different regions of the lattice structure. Instead of using a uniform seed density, the system adjusts the density parameter spatially to achieve optimal structural properties in different zones, enabling tailored mechanical characteristics while maintaining computational efficiency in the generation process.
3Strength
If higher material density is used in lattice structures, then structural strength is improved, but material usage increases and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating spatially varying cell densities through differential seed placement. Regions requiring higher strength receive denser cell distributions, while other regions use lower density, allowing the lattice structure to achieve necessary strength properties with minimized overall material usage. This localized optimization avoids the need for uniformly high material density throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by adjusting the cell density parameter across different spatial zones. This enables the lattice structure to have varying material concentrations where needed for strength while maintaining lower material usage in regions where full density is not required, achieving an optimal balance between structural strength and material efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
According to examples, an apparatus may include a processor that may identify a pattern to be visible in a portion of a lattice structure, determine a first zone in a digital model of the lattice structure corresponding to the identified pattern, and determine a second zone in the digital model corresponding to a location outside of the first zone. The processor may also arrange a plurality of seeds at a first density level in the first zone, arrange a plurality of seeds at a second density level in the second zone, and grow cells from the plurality of seeds to form the lattice structure in the digital model. The cells may grow until edges of the cells contact edges of neighboring cells to form cells at a different density level in the first zone than the second zone to cause the identified pattern to be visible from the cells.