3D Model Slice Data Assignment for Recording Media Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling systems face inefficiencies in manufacturing 3D modeled objects due to limitations in slicing data generation and image formation processes, which affect the minimization of recording media usage and simultaneous production of multiple objects.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that generates slice data by slicing 3D models into plural planes, assigns slice images to planes to optimize recording media usage, and outputs image formation and control data for efficient image formation and post-processing, allowing for minimized media usage and maximized simultaneous production of 3D modeled objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If slice images are assigned to planes without optimization, then the image formation process is simple, but the number of recording media required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides slice data into multiple groups and assigns different sets of slice images to the same physical plane for simultaneous processing. This segmentation allows efficient utilization of recording media by organizing slice images into groups that can be processed in parallel, thereby reducing the total number of recording media required while maintaining manageable complexity through systematic grouping
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical structure where multiple slice image sets are nested within the same plane assignment. By organizing slice data groups and assigning multiple sets of slice images to identical planes, the system creates a nested arrangement that maximizes media utilization without proportionally increasing control complexity
2Productivity
If multiple objects are produced simultaneously, then productivity increases, but the complexity of managing slice data assignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments slice data into distinct groups that can be independently assigned to the same planes. This segmentation enables multiple 3D objects to be processed simultaneously by different slice image sets on the same recording media, thereby increasing productivity while keeping management complexity controlled through structured group organization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes planes and recording media multi-functional by assigning multiple sets of slice images to the same plane for different object productions. This universal utilization allows a single plane to serve multiple purposes and produce multiple objects simultaneously, enhancing productivity without requiring proportional increases in hardware complexity
3Loss of substance
If slice images are assigned to minimize recording media, then media cost reduces, but the time for plane assignment and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary organization of slice data into groups and pre-determines plane assignments for multiple object sets. By establishing the grouping structure and assignment rules in advance, the system minimizes real-time processing overhead while achieving optimized media utilization, thereby reducing both media usage and assignment time
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes: a generation unit that generates plural pieces of slice data by slicing, by plural planes, a 3D model as represented by 3D data; a plane assignment unit that assigns slice images to planes so that slice images corresponding to a part of the plural pieces of slice data and slice images corresponding to another part of the plural pieces of slice data are to be formed on same set of recording media; and an output unit that generates, according to the plane assignment, image formation information that allows an image forming apparatus to form the slice images on recording media and outputs the generated image formation information to the image forming apparatus, and generates, according to the plane assignment, control data that allow a post-processing apparatus to perform post-processing for manufacture of a 3D modeled object and outputs the generated control data to the post-processing apparatus.