RFID Storage Element Embedded in 3D Printed Objects for Automated Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Additive manufacturing systems face challenges in tracking and managing the unique lifecycle conditions of 3D printed objects, including varying manufacturing conditions and storage/handling processes, which affect the characteristics and quality of the printed parts.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a storage element, such as an RFID chip with an embedded antenna, into 3D printed objects to provide a unique identity and store information related to manufacturing conditions, allowing for tracking and management throughout the lifecycle, enabling authentication, intelligent redesign, data collection, and automated handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tracking methods are used for 3D printed objects, then the system complexity is low, but the ability to track and manage unique lifecycle conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds storage elements (RFID tags, barcodes, or data matrices) directly within or on the surface of the 3D printed object itself. This nesting approach allows the object to carry its own identification and lifecycle information, enabling reliable tracking without requiring external tracking infrastructure for each object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of lifecycle information by storing manufacturing conditions, handling data, and authentication codes in digital format within the embedded storage elements. These digital copies can be read and processed automatically, providing reliable tracking capability while keeping the physical system relatively simple.
2Productivity
If manual handling and tracking processes are used, then the equipment cost is low, but the productivity and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables objects to effectively self-identify and self-track by embedding storage elements that contain unique identifiers and lifecycle information. When objects pass through handling systems, the embedded elements automatically present their information for reading, eliminating the need for manual scanning or data entry and significantly improving handling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking processes with automated optical and electromagnetic reading systems. RFID readers, barcode scanners, or camera-based data matrix readers automatically capture information from embedded elements, substituting human labor with automated detection systems that increase productivity while requiring minimal additional infrastructure.
3Reliability
If basic identification methods are used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the authentication security and data richness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification system into multiple hierarchical layers: a basic unique identifier for simple recognition, manufacturing condition data for process verification, and authentication codes for security validation. This segmentation allows the system to provide basic identification at low cost while enabling enhanced security and data richness when needed, without requiring all objects to have the most complex storage elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the embedded storage elements to serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide unique identification, store manufacturing lifecycle data, enable authentication verification, and support tracking across different handling systems. This multi-functionality achieves high reliability and security benefits while avoiding the need for separate systems for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables secure authentication, intelligent redesign, data-rich environments, and automated handling of 3D printed objects, improving their quality and efficiency by ensuring consistent and optimized processing based on embedded data, and allowing for simultaneous reading of multiple objects without direct line-of-sight.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating a storage element, such as an RFID chip with an embedded antenna, into 3D printed objects to provide a unique identity and store information
Data Source
AI summary
In one example in accordance with the present disclosure, a system is described. The system includes a reader to 1) read an identifier from a three-dimensional (3D) System printed object that includes a storage element and 2) read a location of the 3D printed object within a build material bed. An extractor of the system extracts, based on the identifier, a post processing operation to execute on the 3D printed object. A controller of the system controls a post processing operation based on extracted post processing operation information and the location.