3D Printer Control for Building Additive Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies face challenges in adapting architectural planning data for constructing buildings, as they require specific design specifications and material handling that differ significantly from conventional 3D printing materials like concrete, leading to complex and error-prone manual remodeling processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for actuating a 3D printer that involves reading in a 3D model via CAD interface, converting architectural data into filament structure data using printer parameters, and generating control instructions for the printer to automate the additive manufacturing process, specifically designed for large-scale building structures using liquid or powdery materials like concrete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If architectural planning data is used directly for 3D printing, then the design intent is preserved, but the data cannot be used because it lacks printer-specific requirements and design specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transformer as an intermediary system that converts architectural planning data into printer-specific control instructions. The transformer acts as a mediator between the architectural design domain and the 3D printing domain, translating design intent into actionable printer commands while preserving the original design meaning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the data representation by transforming architectural data (with different dimensions, formats, and specifications) into printer-specific data formats. This involves converting planning data with solid structures into filament structure data with appropriate dimensions and printer-specific requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual remodeling of planning data is performed, then the data can be adapted for 3D printing, but the process is complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of data remodeling with an automated computational system. Instead of manually adjusting and converting planning data, the system uses algorithms to automatically transform the data, eliminating human error and reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer system performs self-service by automatically converting architectural data into printer-specific instructions without requiring manual intervention. The system is self-sufficient in handling the data transformation process, reducing the need for human expertise and minimizing errors.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional 3D printing methods are used for construction, then the process can be simplified, but the material requirements and dimensions are fundamentally different
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameters of the printed structures by transforming architectural dimensions into printer-specific filament dimensions. It adapts the printing process to accommodate different materials and dimensions by adjusting control instructions based on material properties and printer capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer dynamically adjusts control instructions based on material properties and printer specifications. The system is flexible and adaptable, modifying printing parameters in real-time to accommodate different construction materials and dimensional requirements.
4Productivity
If automated data conversion is implemented, then errors are reduced and efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data conversion process into distinct functional modules within the transformer system. Each module handles specific conversion tasks, making the overall complex system more manageable and easier to implement while maintaining high automation and efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method is employed for actuating a 3D printer for an additive manufacturing method, in particular filament printing, of structures of a building with concrete or other construction materials. The method may include reading in a 3D model via a CAD interface, in which model the structures are represented in an identifiable manner in structural data in a first design format, reading in printer parameters via a printer interface which parameters represent requirements and/or design specifications of the 3D printer and executing a structure conversion algorithm which uses the structural data represented in the first design format to calculate filament structural data in a second design format for a filament structure on the basis of the printer parameters which have been read in. Control instructions are calculated based on the calculated filament structural data, and the calculated control instructions are transmitted to the 3D printer for the purpose of control.