3D Printer Slice Data Generation for Non-Manifold Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in properly generating slice data for 3D shapes with non-manifold geometry or interference, which can lead to improper 3D fabrication.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus determines the positional relationship of polygons with respect to a slice plane and assigns colors based on this relationship to generate slice data, effectively handling non-manifold geometry and interference by dividing interfering polygons and determining appropriate projection colors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional slice data generation methods are used for 3D shapes with non-manifold geometry or interference, then the processing is simpler and faster, but the generated slice data is incorrect leading to improper 3D fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides interfering polygons into multiple separate polygons based on their positional relationship with the slice plane. By segmenting the interfering polygons into distinct parts (those on the front side, back side, or intersecting the slice plane), the system can process each segment independently with appropriate color assignment, thereby achieving accurate slice data generation for complex geometries without overwhelming computational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different color assignment rules to different regions of polygons based on their local positional characteristics relative to the slice plane. Front-side polygons receive one color treatment, back-side polygons receive another, and intersecting polygons are handled differently. This local differentiation ensures manufacturing precision by accurately representing the 3D shape's geometry at each specific location while maintaining a systematic processing approach
2Manufacturing precision
If interfering polygons are not divided, then the processing is simpler, but cavities are generated in the 3D fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting interfering polygons into distinct parts based on their spatial relationship with the slice plane, the patent eliminates the generation of cavities during 3D fabrication. Each segmented polygon can be correctly projected and filled, ensuring continuous and accurate layer construction. The segmentation is performed in a computationally efficient manner that maintains productivity by avoiding excessive complexity in the processing pipeline
3Manufacturing precision
If color assignment is not based on positional relationship with slice plane, then the processing is simpler, but the projection of polygons is incorrect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different colors to polygons based on their specific positional characteristics relative to the slice plane. Front-side polygons (those completely on one side) receive one color, back-side polygons (completely on the other side) receive another color, and intersecting polygons are handled with specific rules. This localized color assignment ensures accurate visual representation and correct projection of the 3D shape's geometry, while the systematic approach to color determination maintains processing efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes at least one processor configured to determine, for each of polygons that express a 3D shape, a color to be used when the polygon is projected, based on a position of the polygon with respect to a slice plane along a projecting direction in which the polygons are projected, and generate slice data that expresses a sectional shape of the 3D shape along the slice plane based on determined colors.