Segmented 3D Model Controls Multiple Printheads for Parallel Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing technologies face challenges in efficiently controlling multiple printheads to print complex geometries and structures, as they often require sequential printing and lack the ability to assemble segments with the same structural integrity as non-segmented models.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using a segmented 3D model to control multiple printheads of a 3D printer, where each segment is designed to be printed independently and assembled post-printing, leveraging machine learning algorithms to determine optimal segmentation and assembly constraints, allowing for parallel printing and ensuring structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sequential printing is used with single printhead, then structural integrity is maintained, but printing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the 3D model into multiple segments and assigns each segment to a separate printhead. This allows parallel printing of different segments simultaneously, dramatically reducing printing time while maintaining structural integrity through proper segmentation design that ensures each segment can be printed with appropriate quality standards
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple printheads into a single coordinated system that works together to print different segments of the same object in parallel. The control system merges the operations of multiple printheads to achieve unified printing goals while maintaining individual printhead capabilities for structural quality
2Productivity
If multiple printheads are used for parallel printing, then productivity increases, but control complexity and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented to independently manage each printhead and its corresponding model segment. This modular control approach reduces complexity by allowing each printhead to be controlled separately according to its assigned segment's requirements, rather than coordinating all printheads for every printing decision
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D model is pre-segmented into multiple segments before printing begins, and each segment is assigned to a specific printhead in advance. This preliminary organization simplifies control during printing, as the control system only needs to execute pre-planned segment-printhead mappings rather than making complex coordination decisions in real-time
3Loss of time
If segmented printing is implemented, then printing time reduces, but manufacturing precision and ease of manufacture decrease due to assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the model in a way that creates self-contained printing units with standardized interfaces. Each segment is designed to be printed independently with consistent quality standards, making assembly straightforward while enabling parallel printing to reduce overall printing time
Solution Approach 2:
Assembly features and interfaces are built into each segment during the printing process itself, rather than requiring post-printing modifications. The segmentation strategy pre-plans how segments will connect, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the time-saving benefits of parallel printing
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a computer-implemented method. A non-limiting example of the computer-implemented method includes accessing, using a processor system, a segmented three-dimensional (3D) model of a 3D physical object, the segmented 3D model including a plurality of 3D model segments. Instructions of a first 3D model segment of the plurality of 3D model segments control a first printhead of a multiple-printhead (MPH) 3D printer to print a first segment of the 3D physical object on a first print base of the MPH 3D printer. Instructions of a second 3D model segment of the plurality of 3D model segments control a second printhead of the MPH 3D printer to print a second segment of the 3D physical object on a second print base of the MPH 3D printer.