Part-to-Build File for 3D Printing Job Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing processes are inefficient due to the lengthy processing time required for building parts, which involves repetitive and laborious computation of manufacturing information, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in part construction.
Innovation Solution
The Part-to-Build system divides the job file preparation into two steps, generating a reusable intermediary Part-to-Build file that includes CAD data, orientation, support, feature, and slicing information, allowing for the generation of multiple job files without redefining manufacturing information, thereby reducing processing time and ensuring consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional 3D printing job file preparation is used, then complete manufacturing information is provided, but processing time is extremely long and computation is repeated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-computing and storing manufacturing information (orientation, support, slicing data) in an intermediary Part-to-Build file during the CAD modeling phase. This pre-computed data is then reused across multiple job files, eliminating the need for repeated computation and significantly reducing processing time when generating new print jobs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary Part-to-Build file that serves as a mediator between the CAD model and the final job file. This intermediary file contains pre-processed manufacturing information that can be efficiently referenced and reused, reducing the computational burden on the job file generation process and improving overall system productivity.
2Reliability
If manufacturing information is recomputed for each job file, then consistency is maintained, but laborious repetitive computation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating an intermediary Part-to-Build file that contains manufacturing information which can be copied and reused across multiple job files. This copying approach maintains consistency because the same pre-validated manufacturing data is reused, while simultaneously simplifying operations by eliminating repetitive computation steps.
3Loss of information
If detailed manufacturing information is stored for each part, then traceability is maintained, but data management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data management structure into two distinct components: the CAD model containing geometric information and the Part-to-Build file containing manufacturing information. This segmentation maintains traceability by preserving detailed manufacturing data while reducing overall complexity by separating concerns and enabling independent management of each data type.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems for determining a job file for a three-dimensional printing machine based on part-to-build data. Embodiments include determining the part-to-build data based on: determining part data from a received computer-aided design (CAD) file, generating orientation data, generating support data, generating feature data, and generating slicing data. In some embodiments, determining the job file may be further based on generating nesting matrix associated with the part-to-build data.