Voxel Model Transformations for 3D Print Shrinkage Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Additive manufacturing techniques face challenges in accurately generating three-dimensional objects due to dimensional deviations caused by growth or shrinkage during the manufacturing process, particularly when using thermal fusing methods, where build materials may adhere or change volume unpredictably.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to modify object model data by applying geometrical transformations, such as scaling and offset parameters, to compensate for anticipated deformations, distinguishing between voxelized data from 2D slices and 3D meshes, and tailoring these transformations based on object generation parameters and characteristics like location, volume, and surface area within the fabrication chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If thermal fusing methods are used to solidify build material, then manufacturing capability is improved, but dimensional accuracy deteriorates due to growth or shrinkage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies geometrical transformations to the object model data before the additive manufacturing process to pre-compensate for anticipated dimensional deviations. By calculating and applying offset parameters and scaling factors in advance based on the object's characteristics and build location, the system counteracts the growth or shrinkage that will occur during thermal fusing, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing capability and dimensional accuracy.
2Manufacturing precision
If geometrical transformations are applied to compensate for deformation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by applying offset parameters and scaling factors to the object model data. These geometric parameters are calculated based on the object's characteristics (volume, surface area) and build location within the fabrication chamber. By modifying the model parameters beforehand, the system achieves dimensional compensation without requiring complex real-time adjustments during manufacturing, thus improving precision while managing complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If different transformations are applied based on object characteristics and location, then manufacturing precision is improved, but calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by determining different geometrical transformations based on the specific build location within the fabrication chamber and the object's characteristics. Instead of using a uniform transformation for all objects, the system calculates location-specific offset parameters and scaling factors, allowing each object to be compensated according to its local conditions. This approach improves precision by accounting for spatial variations while managing complexity through systematic calculation methods.
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
This approach ensures that generated objects are closer to their intended size by accounting for growth or shrinkage, improving accuracy and consistency in additive manufacturing outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
the solidification method may include heating the layers of build material to cause melting in selected regions
Implementation Method 2
Additive manufacturing techniques may generate a three-dimensional object through the solidification of a build material
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, a method includes receiving, at least one processor, voxelised object model data describing at least part of an intended fabrication chamber content to be generated using additive manufacturing. The voxelised object model data may be derived from a first data set modelling a first object as 2D slices and a second data set modelling a second object as a 3D mesh. Data within the voxelised object model data which is derived from the first data set may be identified, and a geometrical transformation may be applied thereto.