3D Printed Object Customization With Scan-Guided Printability Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers lack the design skills and time to create customized 3-D printed objects that meet professional standards for both aesthetics and functionality, and existing manufacturing processes are inflexible, requiring significant effort for modifications.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows users to customize 3-D printed objects by modifying baseline designs using 3-D scanning data and graphical user interfaces, with constraints to ensure printability and maintain design quality, enabling users to customize products based on personal preferences and physical characteristics while maintaining control over aesthetic and functional integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manufacturing processes with molds are used, then manufacturing precision and quality control are improved, but adaptability and ease of modification deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental manufacturing parameter from subtractive molding to additive layer-by-layer construction. This allows the same manufacturing system to produce varying designs by changing digital parameters rather than physical tooling, achieving both precision and adaptability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static mold-based manufacturing to dynamic digital model-based manufacturing. Design modifications can be made in real-time through software, allowing the manufacturing process to adapt dynamically to customization requirements without retooling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If consumers create custom 3-D printing designs, then adaptability and personalization are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of design skills
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that includes pre-designed templates, automated design assistants, and constraint-based design tools. These intermediaries guide consumers through the design process, translating simple user inputs into professionally viable 3-D printing designs without requiring expert knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows consumers to start with existing professional design templates and modify them rather than creating designs from scratch. This copying approach provides a head start with proven designs while still allowing customization, reducing the skill barrier significantly.
3Manufacturing precision
If rigid manufacturing specifications are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to retooling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal manufacturing system where a single additive manufacturing apparatus can produce multiple different designs by loading different digital models. This multi-functional capability eliminates the need for dedicated tooling for each product variant, achieving both precision and ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application relate to systems and methods which allow for 3-D printed objects, such as eyeglasses and wristwatches, for example, to be customized by users according to modification specifications that are defined and constrained by manufacturers based on factors relating to the printability of a modified design.