3D Molecular Model Conversion to CAD for Printing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for automatic conversion of three-dimensional molecular models into standard computer-aided design formats to enable immediate and user-friendly printing of physical representations using three-dimensional printing equipment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that convert graphic representations of molecular models into computer-aided design format by processing requests within a chemical structure rendering application, identifying surface regions, converting them into polygon mesh representations, and adjusting for printable features, ultimately saving or printing the models in formats like STL for three-dimensional printing equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If three-dimensional molecular models are converted to computer-aided design format, then the ability to print physical models is enabled, but the complexity of the conversion process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion system that automatically transforms molecular model formats into printable computer-aided design formats. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of format conversion, allowing users to easily print models without manually managing format transformations.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion system performs self-service by automatically detecting the source format, generating appropriate conversion parameters, and producing the target format without requiring user intervention in the complex conversion process. The system manages its own complexity internally while presenting simplicity to the user.
2Ease of operation
If automatic conversion is implemented, then user-friendly printing is enabled, but the processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining conversion parameters and preparing conversion templates before actual printing is needed. This allows for faster conversion during printing operations, as the heavy computational work is done in advance during model setup rather than during the actual printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes conversion speed by dynamically adjusting parameters such as mesh resolution, polygon density, and conversion precision based on the specific molecular model characteristics and printing requirements. This allows the system to achieve fast conversion for simple models while maintaining high quality for complex structures.
3Manufacturing precision
If high precision conversion is used, then accurate physical models are produced, but the computational requirements and storage needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion system applies local quality by adjusting the level of precision and detail differentially across different regions of the molecular model. High precision is applied only to critical regions that require accuracy for printing, while less detailed processing is applied to less critical areas, reducing overall computational requirements while maintaining necessary model accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial action by converting only the essential geometric features of the molecular model into the target format, rather than converting every detail. This selective conversion approach maintains sufficient accuracy for printing while significantly reducing computational resources and processing time compared to complete conversion.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatus that allow a user to convert various styles of three dimensional graphic representations of molecular models to computer aided design format to enable printing of a physical model using three dimensional printing equipment such as rapid prototyping equipment, additive manufacturing equipment, and/or three dimensional printers.