Transparent 3D Object Forming via Segmented Mold and Internal Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D printing methods do not effectively allow for the formation of transparent three-dimensional objects that enable easy inspection of internal structures, particularly for complex medical models like human organs with intricate features.
Innovation Solution
A method involving 3D printing an internal structure based on a 3D image file, followed by printing a mold divided into regions, combining the structure with a transparent material, and removing the mold after hardening, which allows for the creation of transparent 3D objects with visible internal structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional 3D printing methods are used to form solid 3D objects, then structural integrity and strength are improved, but transparency and visibility of internal structures deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The object is divided into two distinct components: an internal structure (printed with high strength material) and an external transparent shell (molded with transparent material). This segmentation allows each component to optimize its properties - the internal structure provides strength while the transparent shell provides visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite construction by combining two different materials with complementary properties: a strong opaque material for the internal structure and a transparent material for the external shell. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between strength and transparency.
2Ease of manufacture
If 3D printing is used to create complex internal structures, then manufacturing flexibility and customization are improved, but the ability to inspect internal structures directly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The internal structure is printed separately as an independent component before being inserted into the transparent shell. This extraction approach allows the internal structure to be manufactured with complex geometries using 3D printing while simultaneously allowing direct visual inspection through the transparent external shell.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the internal structure from the external shell, the invention enables both manufacturing flexibility (through 3D printing of complex internal geometries) and ease of inspection (through the transparent shell that allows direct observation of the internal structures).
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
Enables the formation of transparent 3D objects that facilitate easy inspection of internal structures, particularly useful for medical models like lungs or livers, allowing for better visualization of complex features such as blood vessels and tumors.
Implementation Method 1
supplying a transparent material to the mold; and removing the mold after the transparent material hardens
Data Source
AI summary
A method of forming a transparent 3D object and a transparent 3D object formed by the method are provided. A transparent 3D object may be formed as follows. An internal structure of a 3D object is printed using a 3D printer based on a 3D image file having information about an internal region of the 3D object, and a mold, designed to form the 3D object and divided into at least two regions, is printed using the 3D printer based on the 3D image file. Then, the internal structure is combined with an inner region of the mold, and a transparent material is supplied to the mold. After the transparent material hardens, a transparent 3D object is obtained by removing the mold.