JP2015082678A - Copyright protection method and protection system for 3d printer output data - Google Patents

Abstract

When distributing data for 3D printer output, copyright protection is performed on a model itself output from the 3D printer. Original data D1 for outputting a molded object M such as a figure from a 3D printer 150, and a unique code 10 added to protect the copyright are prepared. The unique code 10 is represented as a one-dimensional barcode 21 (or two-dimensional barcode 22), and a 3D barcode 30 is created by the concavo-convex structure surface having the information of the barcode 21. A three-dimensional block 35 having a 3D barcode 30 on its upper surface is defined, and synthesized data D2 is created by synthesizing it within the original data D1, and distributed on the Internet. When the user gives the composite data D2 to the 3D printer 150, a model H having the same appearance as the model M is obtained. When this is scanned from the outside by the X-ray CT scanner device 200, the internal 3D barcode 30 is displayed. The unique code 10 can be read. [Selection] Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for protecting the copyright of an output model when distributing 3D printer output data.

  Currently, an enormous number of digital contents are used in various electronic devices, and digital rights management, generally called DRM (Digital Rights Management), is becoming more and more important. For digital content in the form of audio, image, video, electronic book, etc., DRM by various methods has been proposed for a long time.

  For example, content is distributed and distributed in an encrypted state, and is decrypted and played back only in a specific environment, or in a so-called streaming method, and content data does not remain at the user's hand The technology to make is already in practical use. In addition, a method of distributing and distributing contents data with a digital watermark embedded is also used. Although this method cannot restrict the copying of digital content itself, the digital watermark information remains in the copy, making it easy to prove that it is a copy, and the effect of suppressing illegal copying is not effective. can get.

  In recent years, 3D modeling data has come to the spotlight as a form of digital content. The 3D modeling data itself is content data that has been used in CAD systems and CG systems for a long time. Recently, however, attention has been focused on use as 3D printer output data. Until now, 3D printers were only used in the work of some companies as tools for creating prototypes and models at high speed. Recently, however, the price has been lowered and it can be introduced even by general individuals. It is coming. For this reason, modeling data for 3D printer output described in a standard file format called STL (Standard Triangulated Language) is distributed on the Internet.

  Of course, with respect to such 3D modeling data, it is important to perform digital copyright management in the same manner as digital contents such as voice, image, moving image, and electronic book. Therefore, for example, Patent Document 1 below proposes a method of restricting data browsing by performing two-step password authentication on 3D modeling data. Patent Document 2 discloses 3D modeling data. A method has been proposed in which only the minimum part necessary for cost estimation is disclosed and the entire image and other parts are mosaiced so as not to be viewed when handing over to a parts supplier. Patent Document 3 proposes a method of embedding digital watermark information so that a three-dimensional shape is not deformed by changing some bits of rendering parameters such as viewpoint coordinates and light source position coordinates. Yes.

Japanese Patent No. 3868284 Japanese Patent No. 4806257 Japanese Patent No. 4081033

  As disclosed in the above-mentioned patent documents, methods for performing digital rights management similar to general digital contents have been proposed for 3D modeling data. If these methods are used, audio, Copyright management similar to digital contents such as images, moving images, and electronic books can be performed. However, these methods cannot always perform sufficient copyright management.

  For example, in the method described in Patent Document 1 described above, 3D modeling data can be copied indefinitely after browsing is permitted by password authentication. However, the inspectable part can be copied indefinitely, and there is never enough copyright protection.

  On the other hand, if the technique described in Patent Document 3 is used, the copied copy is always embedded with digital watermark information, and therefore, a pirate who distributes illegal copies. A deterrent effect is obtained for the action. However, in the case of 3D printer output data, although the digital watermark information is embedded in the data itself, the digital watermark information is reflected in the output model obtained by giving the data to the 3D printer. Therefore, it is not possible to sufficiently protect the copyright on the output molding.

  In the future, 3D printers will spread to the level of general individuals, and it is expected that 3D printer output data will be actively distributed on the Internet. In this case, if the digital watermark information is embedded in the data itself, an effect of suppressing illegal duplication of the data itself can be obtained, but the copyright management of the output modeling object itself obtained from the 3D printer is insufficient. Yes, there is a possibility that a 3D printer will be used to infinitely produce a figure such as a figure. Also, there is a problem that dangerous goods subject to legal regulations such as handguns, articles with security problems such as joint keys, and other import-regulated goods are output from 3D printers based on data obtained via the Internet. It has been pointed out that there is an urgent need for copyright management of the output molding itself.

  Therefore, the present invention executes a data distribution method, a copyright protection method, and these methods capable of protecting the copyright of the model itself output from the 3D printer when distributing the data for 3D printer output. It aims at providing the system for. It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for creating 3D printer output data having a function of protecting the copyright of an output modeled object, and a system for executing the method.

(1) According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a copyright protection method for 3D printer output data that protects the copyright of an output model when distributing 3D printer output data.
A data input stage in which the computer inputs original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data for copyright protection; ,
A 3D barcode creation stage in which a computer creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which the computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution stage in which the computer distributes the composite data;
A code detection stage for extracting a 3D barcode from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to the 3D printer and detecting a unique code;
And
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, synthesis is performed to obtain synthesis data that can be output from a shaped object having an uneven structure surface formed inside,
In the code detection stage, the output shaped object is scanned from the outside to recognize the concavo-convex structure surface and extract the 3D barcode.

(2) According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first aspect described above.
In the 3D barcode creation stage, a 3D barcode is created based on a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode.

(3) According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the second aspect,
In the 3D barcode creation stage, a one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional barcode consisting of a collection of black and white areas corresponding to the unique code is created on a predetermined code formation plane, Is moved by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and a concavo-convex structure surface is formed by the black area and the white area after the movement process. .

(4) According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to third aspects,
In the data input stage, input original data indicating the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region,
The second three-dimensional closed space that is included in the first three-dimensional closed space region and forms a concavo-convex structure surface in which a part of the boundary surface becomes a 3D barcode at the 3D barcode synthesis stage Defining a region, defining a third three-dimensional closed space region having the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region as an outer surface and the boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region as an inner surface; The composite data including information indicating the outer surface and the inner surface of the three-dimensional closed space region is created.

(5) According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for data for 3D printer output according to the first to fourth aspects,
In the code detection stage, the output shaped object is scanned from the outside using an X-ray CT scanner device so as to recognize the concavo-convex structure surface.

(6) According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to fifth aspects,
At the data distribution stage, data for distribution is created by performing encryption processing on the composite data, and the composite data is distributed in the form of data for distribution. The composite data can be used when decryption processing is performed.

(7) According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to sixth aspects,
In the data distribution stage, distribution data is created by embedding an embedded code added for copyright protection as a digital watermark into the combined data, and the combined data is in the form of distribution data. It is configured to be distributed, and the embedded code can be extracted and recognized from the distribution data.

(8) According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the above-described copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the seventh aspect,
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, create composite data including coordinate data indicating each vertex position of a plurality of polygons and normal vector data indicating the front and back of each polygon,
In the data distribution stage, the embedding process is executed by changing the values of some of the bits constituting the normal vector data.

  (9) According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, composite data is created by performing a 3D barcode synthesis step in the copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to fourth aspects described above. It is a thing.

  (10) According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, 3D barcode synthesis is performed by performing the 3D barcode synthesis step in the copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to fourth aspects described above. An output shaped article is obtained by giving it to a printer.

  (11) An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a data input stage, 3D barcode creation stage, and 3D barcode synthesis stage in the copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the first to fourth aspects described above. Is executed by incorporating a program into a computer.

(12) In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the system that distributes the data for 3D printer output and protects the copyright for the output molding,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data for copyright protection;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing a 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution unit for distributing composite data;
A code detection unit that extracts a 3D barcode and detects a unique code from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to the 3D printer;
Provided,
The 3D barcode synthesizing unit creates synthetic data that can output an output shaped object in which the concavo-convex structure surface is formed,
The code detection unit recognizes the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning the output shaped object from the outside, and extracts a 3D barcode.

In the system for distributing 3D printer output data and protecting the copyright according to the twelfth aspect described above,
The 3D barcode creation unit can create a 3D barcode based on a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode.

  Specifically, the 3D barcode creation unit creates a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode consisting of a collection of black areas and white areas corresponding to the unique code on a predetermined code formation plane. A moving process of moving one of the white area and the white area by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and forming a concavo-convex structure surface by the black area and the white area after the moving process. You can do it.

In the system for distributing the data for 3D printer output and copyright protection according to the twelfth aspect described above,
The data input unit inputs original data indicating the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region,
A second 3D closed space in which the 3D barcode synthesis unit is included in the first 3D closed space region, and a part of the boundary surface forms an uneven structure surface that becomes a 3D barcode. Defining a region, defining a third three-dimensional closed space region having the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region as an outer surface and the boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region as an inner surface; Synthesis data including information indicating the outer surface and the inner surface of the three-dimensional closed space region can be created.

Further, in the system for distributing 3D printer output data and protecting the copyright according to the twelfth aspect described above,
The code detection unit may have an X-ray CT scanner device that recognizes the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning the output shaped object from the outside.

(13) According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the 3D printer output data creation method for creating the 3D printer output data to which the unique code is added for the output shaped article,
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creation stage in which a computer creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which the computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
Is to do.

(14) According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the 3D printer output data creation system for creating the 3D printer output data with the unique code added to the output modeled object,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing a 3D barcode with the original data;
Is provided.

(15) A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a method of manufacturing a three-dimensional article using a 3D printer that uses a 3D printer to manufacture a three-dimensional article to which a unique code is added.
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creation stage in which a computer creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which the computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A modeling object creation stage in which a computer obtains an output modeling object by providing composite data to a 3D printer;
And
In the data input stage, input original data indicating the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region,
In the 3D barcode creation stage, a one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional barcode consisting of a collection of black and white areas corresponding to the unique code is created on a predetermined code formation plane, Is moved by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and a concavo-convex structure surface is formed by the black area and the white area after the movement process,
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, a second three-dimensional closed space region that is included in the first three-dimensional closed space region and a part of the boundary surface forms a concavo-convex structure surface is defined, A third three-dimensional closed space is defined in which a boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region is defined as an outer surface, and a boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region is defined as an inner surface. Create composite data that includes information showing the outer and inner surfaces of the region,
A three-dimensional article is manufactured by outputting, from a 3D printer, an output modeled object having a concavo-convex structure surface formed therein at a modeled object creation stage.

(16) A sixteenth aspect of the present invention is a three-dimensional article to which a predetermined unique code is added,
An outer surface that constitutes a boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region, and an inner surface that constitutes a boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region included in the first three-dimensional closed space region ,
The third three-dimensional closed space region formed as a space between the outer surface and the inner surface is filled with the first material made of solid, and the second three-dimensional closed space region is filled with the first material and Is filled with a second material made of a different material,
A concavo-convex structure surface constituting a 3D barcode is formed on a part of the inner surface, and the concavo-convex structure surface includes a concave region disposed on a code forming surface composed of a predetermined plane and a predetermined step distance between the code forming surface and the code forming surface. It is constituted by an aggregate with convex areas arranged on an offset surface obtained by translating by d,
When the concave region and the convex region are orthogonally projected on a predetermined projection plane arranged at a position parallel to the code forming surface and the offset surface, the projected image of the concave region and the projected image of the convex region Thus, a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode indicating a unique code is formed.

(17) According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional article to which the unique code according to the sixteenth aspect described above is added,
The first material is an opaque solid material, and the second material is air.

(18) According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the three-dimensional article to which the unique code according to the sixteenth aspect described above is added,
The first material is an opaque solid material, and the second material is a raw material for producing the solid material.

  (19) According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, 3D printer output data capable of outputting a three-dimensional article to which the unique code according to the sixteenth aspect described above is added as a modeled object is prepared. A three-dimensional article is manufactured by giving it to a 3D printer.

(20) In the twentieth aspect of the present invention, a unique code is added to the output modeled object output from the 3D printer, and the unique code addition confirmation for the output modeled object output from the 3D printer for confirming this is added. In the method
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creation stage in which a computer creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which the computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution stage in which the computer distributes the composite data;
A code detection stage for extracting a 3D barcode from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to the 3D printer and detecting a unique code;
And
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, synthesis is performed to obtain synthesis data that can be output from a shaped object having an uneven structure surface formed inside,
In the code detection stage, the output shaped object is scanned from the outside to recognize the concavo-convex structure surface and extract the 3D barcode.

(21) In the twenty-first aspect of the present invention, a unique code is added to the output modeled object output from the 3D printer, and a unique code addition confirmation for the output modeled object output from the 3D printer is confirmed. In the system,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing a 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution unit for distributing composite data;
A code detection unit that extracts a 3D barcode and detects a unique code from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to the 3D printer;
Provided,
The 3D barcode synthesizing unit creates synthetic data that can output an output shaped object in which the concavo-convex structure surface is formed,
The code detection unit recognizes the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning the output shaped object from the outside, and extracts a 3D barcode.

  According to the present invention, a unique code is incorporated as a 3D barcode in original data for 3D printer output, and is distributed in the form of composite data. Since this 3D barcode is data for forming a concavo-convex structure surface inside the output modeled object, it does not affect the outer shape of the output modeled object. In addition, when necessary, the output shaped object can be scanned from the outside to recognize the concavo-convex structure surface, extract the 3D barcode, and read the unique code.

  The concavo-convex structure surface is formed in each of the shaped objects output using the 3D printer output data distributed in the composite data format. Therefore, in implementing the present invention, if a code for copyright protection is used as the unique code, when the data for 3D printer output is distributed, the model itself output from the 3D printer based on the data is distributed. It becomes possible to effectively perform copyright protection. Further, it is possible to create 3D printer output data having a function for protecting the copyright of the output modeled object.

It is a block diagram which shows the delivery form of the conventional general 3D printer output data. It is a block diagram which shows the embedding procedure of the intrinsic | native code for copyright protection by this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the basic procedure of the copyright protection method of the data for 3D printer output concerning this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the data structure of general 3D modeling data. It is a perspective view which shows the data structure of 3D modeling data which consists of an aggregate | assembly of a triangle. It is a figure which shows the creation principle of 3D barcode (uneven structure surface) used for information embedding in this invention, The upper figure (a) is a top view of the one-dimensional barcode 21 defined on the code | symbol formation surface E, The lower part (b) is a side sectional view of the 3D barcode (uneven structure surface) 30 formed between the code forming surface E and the offset surface F formed thereabove. It is a fragmentary sectional view which shows an example of the output modeling thing by which 3D barcode (uneven structure surface) was embedded by this invention. It is a front sectional view showing the principle of creating synthesized data by synthesizing a 3D barcode with original data. It is a figure which shows the data structure of 3D modeling data corresponding to sectional drawing of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the output molded object H produced by this invention ((a) is a perspective view, (b) is a front sectional view, (c) is a side sectional view, (d) is a projection plan view. ). It is a front sectional view showing a model output process by a general resin type 3D printer. It is a front sectional view showing a molded object output process by a general gypsum type 3D printer. Front cross section showing the internal structure of an output modeled object (Figure (a)) created by a resin type 3D printer and an output modeled object (Figure (b)) created by a gypsum type 3D printer by applying the present invention FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the delivery form of the data for 3D printer output which concerns on the modification of this invention. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a basic principle of “digital watermark embedding process 143” shown in FIG. 14; It is a figure which shows the specific example which embedded the digital watermark in 3D modeling data based on the basic principle shown in FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of a system for distributing 3D printer output data and protecting copyright according to the present invention. FIG.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described based on the illustrated embodiments.

<<< §1. Problems of the prior art and the basic concept of the present invention >>>
First, the problems of the prior art will be briefly described, and the basic concept of the present invention for solving this will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a distribution form of conventional general 3D printer output data. As shown in the figure, the data D for 3D printer output is usually created by work on a computer screen using the CAD / CG tool 110, taken in by scanning an object using the 3D body scanner 120, or used for medical purposes. They are obtained by scanning the human body using the CT / MRI scanner 130, and if necessary, they are prepared by processing them.

  The prepared 3D printer output data D is distributed via a network N such as the Internet. At this time, DRM addition processing 141 is generally performed. As specific DRM addition processing 141, encryption processing or digital watermark embedding processing is used. A legitimate user receives this 3D printer output data D via the network N and uses it after performing a DRM release process 142 (for example, a decryption process using a decryption key obtained by a legitimate method). Will do.

  At present, as a data format for a 3D printer, an STL (Standard Triangulated Language) format is a standard format, and general 3D printer output data D is composed of 3D modeling data in the STL format. . A general user can obtain a substantial output modeling object M by giving the 3D printer output data D to the 3D printer 150.

  When such a distribution form is adopted, copyright protection measures such as encryption and digital watermark embedding can be applied to the 3D printer output data itself by the DRM addition processing 141. Therefore, it is possible to prevent data distributed via the network N from being copied infinitely and used by an unspecified number of people.

  In general, since the digital watermark release process is not performed, if the digital watermark embedding process is performed as the DRM addition process 141, the 3D printer output data D after the DRM release process 142 is included. Since the digital watermark is left as it is, it is possible to prevent a legitimate user from copying the DRM-released data indefinitely and distributing a copy (if such a distribution act is performed) Since the user is specified from the duplicate, it functions as a sufficient deterrent).

  However, since the trace of the electronic watermark added by the DRM addition process 141 does not remain in the output modeling object M output from the 3D printer 150, even if a regular user outputs the output modeling object M inexhaustibly, The user cannot be specified from the output shaped object M. Therefore, a user who obtained data such as a figure of a popular character by a legitimate method outputs a large number of output objects M using the 3D printer 150, and uses this as a three-dimensional article of the figure. If the product is sold in excess, copyright protection cannot be provided. As described above, in the case of the conventional distribution form shown in FIG. 1, the finally obtained output shaped object M is not subject to DRM. In addition, even if a user who cannot obtain the data for 3D printer output can obtain the sold output modeling object M, the output modeling object M is re-scanned by using the 3D body scanner 120 to imitate the output modeling object M. It is also possible to create and sell a large number of objects M ′, which is also out of the control of copyright protection.

  Of course, if the information of the serial number is incorporated in the individual 3D modeling data in advance so that a unique serial number etc. is physically engraved on the surface of the output molded object M when outputting from the 3D printer 150 Since the serial number unique to the user is all engraved on the surface of the output shaped object M output by the user, it is possible to suppress the cheating to some extent. However, it is not preferable to engrave the serial number on the surface of a character figure or the like because it deteriorates the appearance of the figure. Also, if the engraved part is scraped off, the copyright protection effect is lost.

  The present invention proposes a new method for solving such problems of the prior art, and its basic concept is a unique code for copyright protection (for example, the unique serial number described above). (Good) is expressed as a 3D barcode consisting of a concavo-convex structure surface, and the 3D barcode is output to the original 3D modeling data so that this 3D barcode is output from the 3D printer in a state of being formed inside the output molding M. It synthesizes code and creates composite data and distributes it.

  When a user who has received such distribution of composite data outputs a model using a 3D printer, a 3D barcode consisting of a concavo-convex structure surface is necessarily formed inside. Since the concavo-convex structure surface is an internal structure of the output modeled object, it does not affect the outer shape, and the outer shape does not change even when used for a character figure or the like. Moreover, when a large number of output shaped objects that infringe copyrights are available, the 3D barcode is expressed as an uneven structure surface. Therefore, using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like, the output shaped objects are externally displayed. If scanning is performed, a 3D barcode can be extracted by non-destructively recognizing the uneven structure surface, and a unique code for copyright protection can be read. Therefore, it is possible to effectively protect the copyright of the modeled object while maintaining the outer shape of the output modeled object.

  Specifically, if the unique code can be read from the output shaped object M output using specific composite data, evidence that the 3D printer illegally performed using the composite data can be obtained. . On the other hand, this output model M is rescanned using the 3D body scanner 120, and the 3D barcode is embedded in the output model M ′ output from the 3D printer using the data obtained by the rescan. As a result, the unique code cannot be read. However, since the 3D bar code that should be present inside cannot be read by the 3D body scanner 120, the output shaped object M 'becomes evidence that the output shaped object M is an imitation of the output shaped object M, and is used as a basis for authenticity judgment. can do.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a procedure for embedding a unique code for copyright protection according to the present invention. Here, first, it is assumed that 3D printer output data D1 is prepared as shown in the middle left part of the figure. This data D1 corresponds to the 3D printer output data D in the conventional example shown in FIG. 1, and was created using the CAD / CG tool 110, the 3D body scanner 120, the medical CT / MRI scanner 130, and the like. Original 3D modeling data. When this 3D printer output data D1 is given to the 3D printer 150, an output shaped object M is obtained. Here, the 3D printer output data D1 is referred to as “original data”.

  On the other hand, as shown in the upper left of FIG. 2, a unique code 10 added for copyright protection is prepared for the original data D1. The unique code 10 may be a serial number consisting of a series of numbers or a symbol including alphabets and characters as long as it is a code that fulfills a function of identifying data to be distributed in terms of copyright management. . The unique code 10 is converted into a 3D barcode composed of a concavo-convex structure surface. In the embodiment shown here, first, the unique code 10 is converted into a one-dimensional barcode 21 or a two-dimensional barcode (QR code ( (Registered trademark)) 22, which is converted into a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface.

  Usually, the one-dimensional barcode 21 is used for encoding numbers, and the two-dimensional barcode 22 is used for encoding symbols including characters. Therefore, the unique code 10 is composed of a series of numbers. If it is constituted by a one-dimensional barcode 21, and if it is constituted by a symbol including characters, this may be represented by a two-dimensional barcode 22.

  As shown in the figure, the one-dimensional barcode 21 is one in which black bars and white bars are alternately arranged one-dimensionally, and its substance is composed of black areas and white areas arranged on a two-dimensional plane. Is a planar pattern. In the general one-dimensional barcode 21, as shown in the example in the figure, an Arabic numeral is appended below, but this Arabic numeral part is an incidental part, and the main part of the one-dimensional barcode 21. Is the part of the black and white bar.

  On the other hand, the two-dimensional barcode (QR code (registered trademark)) 22 is a pattern in which black portions and white portions are two-dimensionally arranged in a mottled manner, as shown in the figure. This is a planar pattern constituted by the black area and the white area arranged above. After all, the substance of both the one-dimensional barcode 21 and the two-dimensional barcode 22 is a planar pattern composed of a black area and a white area arranged on a two-dimensional plane. This will be referred to as a plane barcode 20.

  In contrast, the substance of “3D barcode” in the present application is an uneven structure surface, and in the illustrated example, the upper surface of the three-dimensional block 35 is the 3D barcode 30. In general, the terms “3D barcode” and “three-dimensional barcode” are not currently used as established technical terms. Conceptually, if you prepare a large number of white dice and black dice and arrange them vertically, horizontally, and in the depth direction, the solid may be called a “three-dimensional barcode”. Since such a code is not a code on a two-dimensional plane, it is difficult to attach to or read an article, and it is not practical and has not been used at present.

  The “3D barcode” referred to in the present application is not a conceptual barcode in which black and white dice are arranged three-dimensionally in this way, but a black region and a white region arranged on a predetermined two-dimensional code forming surface. Is a concavo-convex structure surface obtained by moving a black region or a white region in a vertical direction with respect to a planar pattern (for example, one-dimensional barcode 21 or two-dimensional barcode 22) composed of Will be described in detail in §2. The 3D barcode 30 illustrated in FIG. 2 is configured by the upper surface (uneven structure surface) of the three-dimensional block 35, and is created based on the one-dimensional barcode (in the example shown, seven The concavo-convex structure surface created based on a simple one-dimensional barcode composed of bars is shown, and does not correspond to the one-dimensional barcode 21 shown on the left).

  Thus, when the 3D printer output data (original data) D1 and the 3D barcode 30 are prepared, the former is combined with the latter to obtain 3D printer output data D2. Here, the data D1 is referred to as “original data”, and the 3D printer output data D2 is referred to as “composite data”. This combining process is a process of combining two sets of 3D modeling data, and a specific combining method will be described in §2. Of course, a plurality of 3D barcodes 30 having different unique codes are synthesized with the same original data D1 to create a plurality of synthesized data D2, and synthesized data D2 in which different unique codes are embedded for each distribution destination user. Can also be delivered. If it does so, when many similar articles | goods of the output modeling thing output from 3D printers circulate, it can be specified to which user it is the similar goods created using the synthetic data D2 delivered.

  When the composite data D2 obtained in this way is given to the 3D printer 150, an output shaped object H as shown in the figure is obtained. Here, although the external shape of the output modeling object H is exactly the same as that of the output modeling object M, the 3D block 35 is embedded inside, and the 3D bar is formed as an uneven structure surface formed on the upper surface thereof. The code 30 is embedded. When the output molding H is made of a material such as opaque resin or gypsum, the inside is opaque, so as long as it is observed from the outside, the presence of the 3D barcode 30 cannot be recognized. When the output shaped object H is scanned from the outside using a code detection device such as the X-ray CT scanner device 200, the uneven structure surface can be recognized, the 3D barcode 30 can be extracted, and the unique code 10 Can be read out.

  After all, in the present invention, 3D printer output data (composite data) D2 is distributed via the network N instead of the 3D printer output data (original data) D1. In the output model H output from the 3D printer 150 based on the composite data D2, a predetermined unique code 10 is embedded in the form of a 3D barcode 30 formed of a concavo-convex structure surface. The unique code 10 can be read by performing a nondestructive code detection operation using the X-ray CT scanner device 200 or the like. In addition, even when the output model H according to the present invention is compared with the conventional output model M, there is no difference in outer shape.

  In particular, if the output shaped object H is made of an opaque material, there is no difference in appearance between the two, and there is no fear of damaging the appearance even when used for a character figure or the like. In addition, since the internal 3D barcode 30 cannot be recognized with the naked eye, the inherent code 10 cannot be read out with the naked eye observation, and an effect of suppressing unauthorized use of the inherent code 10 can be obtained. Therefore, it is possible to effectively protect the copyright of the modeled object itself without deteriorating the appearance of the output modeled object.

<<< §2. Basic procedure of copyright protection method according to the present invention >>
Next, the basic procedure of the copyright protection method for 3D printer output data according to the invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This basic procedure is a procedure of a copyright protection method for protecting the copyright of an output model when distributing 3D printer output data, and is basically executed using a computer.

  First, in the data input stage of step S1, the computer executes a process of inputting the original data D1 and the unique code 10. Here, the original data D1 corresponds to the 3D printer output data D1 shown in the middle left of FIG. 2, and is 3D modeling data having a format in which the 3D printer 150 can output a predetermined output shaped object M. is there. On the other hand, the unique code 10 corresponds to the unique code 10 shown in the upper left of FIG. 2, and may be a serial number or a character string as long as it is a code added to the original data D1 for copyright protection. It can be a symbol.

  The output shaped object M output based on the original data D1 may be of an arbitrary shape, but here, in order to simplify the description, a cubic three-dimensional structure 50 as shown in FIG. 4 is output. A simple example in which data for 3D printer output that can be output as a modeled object M is given as original data D1 will be described. Further, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that an XYZ three-dimensional coordinate system having an origin O is defined and a three-dimensional structure 50 is arranged on this coordinate system as shown in the figure.

  The cubic three-dimensional structure 50 is geometrically configured by combining six square surfaces. Therefore, 3D modeling data composed of such cubes is data indicating the position coordinates of six squares (specifically, coordinate values indicating positions in the XYZ three-dimensional coordinate system for each of the four vertices of each square. ) And data indicating normal vectors for six squares. Here, the normal vector is used as information for indicating the front and back of each surface (inside / outside of the structure).

  FIG. 4 shows three surfaces a, b, and c on the front side of the six surfaces of the cubic three-dimensional structure 50 and normal vectors Na, Nb, and Nc for these surfaces. (The arrow attached to the upper part of the letter indicating the vector name is omitted). In the illustrated example, the normal vectors Na, Nb, and Nc are vectors oriented in the positive directions of the Z axis, the X axis, and the Y axis starting from the center points of the surfaces a, b, and c, respectively. It plays the role of showing the outside of the original structure 50.

  As described above, 3D modeling data indicating the surface shape of an arbitrary three-dimensional structure generally includes each vertex coordinate value of a polygon (a square in the illustrated example) constituting the surface, and the front and back of each polygon. And a normal vector indicating (inside / outside of the structure). However, as described above, in the case of 3D printer output data, data in STL (Standard Triangulated Language) format is used as a standard, and in this format, it is assumed that triangles are used as polygons. That is, the 3D modeling data in the STL format is configured by data indicating the vertex coordinate value of each triangle and the normal vector for each triangle when the surface of the output shaped object M is expressed as a collection of triangles.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a data configuration when the three-dimensional structure 50 made of a cube shown in FIG. 4 is expressed by 3D modeling data made of a collection of triangles. The six faces made of squares are each divided into two triangles by diagonal lines, and the three-dimensional structure 50 is expressed as a total of 12 triangles. Here, for example, the information of the triangle t shown by hatching in the figure is composed of coordinate values indicating the positions of the three vertices A, B, and C and information indicating the normal vector Nt.

  Specifically, as shown in the lower block of the figure, the information of the triangle t includes the coordinates of the vertex A (xa, ya, za), the coordinates of the vertex B (xb, yb, zb), and the coordinates of the vertex C (xc , Yc, zc) and information (xt, yt, zt) indicating the normal vector Nt. Here, the information (xt, yt, zt) indicating the normal vector Nt is obtained by translating the normal vector Nt starting from the center position of the triangle t to the position starting from the origin O. It is the coordinate value of the tip point P. The reason why such an expression method is adopted is that the normal vector Nt does not need to have position and length information, and may be a unit vector expressing only direction information.

  Eventually, the 3D printer output data D1 representing the cubic three-dimensional structure 50 as STL format data is composed of data prepared for all twelve pairs of triangle t information as shown. become. A general 3D printer performs a process of outputting a cubic three-dimensional structure 50 as an output modeled object based on such output data D1. In practice, it is also possible to output a cube whose interior is hollow such as a combination of six square plates, instead of a cube whose interior is filled with material, depending on the output mode of the 3D printer. .

  Now, in the data input stage of step S1 in the flowchart of FIG. 3, together with the original data D1 for outputting such a cubic three-dimensional structure 50, the original data D1 is added to the original data D1 for copyright protection. Reference numeral 10 is input. Here, for convenience of explanation, consider a simple example in which the unique code 10 is data consisting of numbers and can be expressed by a one-dimensional barcode. In the 3D barcode creation stage of step S2, the computer performs a process of creating a 3D barcode 30 having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code 10 input in step S1.

  The one-dimensional barcode 21 is constituted by a collection of a large number of black and white bars as shown in the upper left of FIG. 2, for example, but here, for convenience of explanation, a simple one as shown in FIG. Suppose that it is comprised by a simple plane pattern. In the illustrated example, a one-dimensional bar code 21 is composed of seven black bars (indicated by bars with mesh hatching) and three white bars alternately arranged adjacent to each other with different widths. It is the example which comprised. In other words, the one-dimensional barcode 21 is a black and white two-dimensional image composed of an aggregate of a rectangular black area Bk and a rectangular white area Wh arranged on the code forming surface (the paper surface of FIG. 6A). This is a value pattern.

  In the case of the embodiment described here, the unique code 10 is expressed by the one-dimensional barcode 21 or the two-dimensional barcode 22 in the 3D barcode creation stage of step S2, and a 3D barcode is created based on these planar barcodes. Processing is performed. The 3D barcode used in the present invention does not necessarily need to be created based on a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode, but in practice it is created based on a standardized one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional barcode. It is preferable to do this. Then, if reading from the outside using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like and acquiring at least one tomographic image in the depth direction of the 3D barcode, using a barcode reader compliant with the conventional standard, The unique code can be read from the tomographic image as it is. Therefore, the X-ray CT imaging time (cost) can be reduced, and there is an advantage that it is not necessary to newly develop and prepare a special code detection device.

  As described above, when the unique code 10 is expressed by the plane barcode 20 such as the one-dimensional barcode 21 or the two-dimensional barcode 22, the unique code 10 is set on the predetermined code formation plane E in the 3D barcode creation stage. A one-dimensional barcode 21 or a two-dimensional barcode 22 composed of an aggregate of the corresponding black region Bk and white region Wk is created, and one of the black region Bk and the white region Wh is orthogonal to the code formation plane E. A 3D barcode 30 made up of the concavo-convex structure surface is formed by performing a movement process for moving the predetermined step distance d in the direction to be moved and forming the concavo-convex structure surface by the black area Bk and the white area Wh after the movement process. can do.

  FIG. 6B shows a side cross-sectional view of a 3D barcode configured by such a method. That is, the concavo-convex structure surface indicated by the bold line in the figure is the 3D barcode 30, and is constituted by the black region Bk, the white region Wh, and the vertical wall surface Vt. In short, the black and white constituting the one-dimensional barcode 21 shown in the plan view of FIG. 6 (a) is formed on the code forming surface E indicated by the alternate long and short dash line on the side sectional view of FIG. 6 (b). Moving the black pattern Bk upward (in the direction perpendicular to the code forming plane E) by a predetermined step distance d while arranging the plane pattern and maintaining the position of the white area Wk as it is. The white area Wk, the black area Bk after the movement process, and the vertical wall surface Vt formed on the moving path of the boundary line of the black area Bk are drawn in bold lines in FIG. 6 (b). The uneven structure surface, that is, the 3D barcode 30 is formed.

  In the concavo-convex structure surface constituting the 3D barcode 30, the white region Wh is located on the original code forming surface E, and the black region Bk is offset by a step distance d from the original code forming surface E. It is located on the surface F. Here, the offset surface F is a plane parallel to the code forming surface E. The 3D barcode 30 formed on the upper surface of the three-dimensional block 35 in FIG. 2 corresponds to the 3D barcode 30 shown in FIG. 6 (b). Of course, conversely, the white region Wh may be moved to the offset surface F while the black region Bk is positioned on the original code forming surface E.

  Note that FIG. 6 is an example in which the 3D barcode 30 is created based on the one-dimensional barcode 21. Therefore, the unevenness change of the uneven structure surface indicated by the bold line in FIG. Direction) (unevenness in the direction perpendicular to the paper does not change). This is natural because the black-and-white pattern of the one-dimensional barcode 21 shown in FIG. 6A only changes the black-and-white distribution in the one-dimensional direction (the left-right direction in the figure). However, when a 3D barcode is created based on the two-dimensional barcode 22 as shown in the upper right of FIG. 2, the change in the black and white pattern of the two-dimensional barcode 22 occurs in the two-dimensional direction. Surface unevenness changes also occur in the two-dimensional direction.

  In the subsequent 3D barcode synthesis stage of step S3, the computer creates the synthesized data D2 by synthesizing the 3D barcode 30 with the original data D1. More specifically, a synthesis process is performed so as to obtain synthesis data D2 that can be output from the shaped object H in which the concavo-convex structure surface constituting the 3D barcode 30 is formed. The 3D barcode 30 is merely information on the concavo-convex structure surface, and is information that defines a boundary surface between two regions in contact with each other in the three-dimensional space. The composite data D2 is 3D modeling data that provides an output shaped object H in which the concavo-convex structure surface constituting the 3D barcode 30 forms a boundary surface between two regions.

  FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an example of an output shaped article H in which a 3D barcode (uneven structure surface) 30 is embedded. As shown in the figure, the output shaped object H has a structure in which the first material portion 41 and the second material portion 42 are in contact with each other via the concavo-convex structure surface 30, and the concavo-convex structure surface 30 functions as a boundary surface between them. Yes. Here, the first material part 41 and the second material part 42 are made of different materials (as will be described later, gas such as air or powder such as gypsum powder may be used). Yes. In this way, since the two material portions 41 and 42 made of different materials are in contact with each other with the concavo-convex structure surface 30 as a boundary surface, the output shaped object H is externally used with an X-ray CT scanner device or the like. When scanning is performed, the uneven pattern (that is, information on the 3D barcode 30) can be recognized as an image, and information on the 3D barcode 30 can be physically extracted.

  In FIG. 2, for convenience of explaining the concept of the present invention, the 3D barcode 30 is embodied as an uneven structure on the upper surface of the three-dimensional block 35, and the three-dimensional block 35 is completely embedded in the output molded article H. Actually, the three-dimensional block 35 is grasped as one three-dimensional closed space region, and in the 3D barcode synthesis stage of step S3, the output modeling object having different materials inside and outside the three-dimensional closed space region It suffices if composite data D2 that outputs H can be generated. The specific procedure of this 3D barcode synthesis step will be described in detail in §3.

  The data input stage in step S1, the 3D barcode creation stage in step S2, and the 3D barcode synthesis stage in step S3 have been described in order. Usually, each of these steps can be executed by a computer incorporating a dedicated processing program.

  In this way, if the synthesized data D2 can be created by synthesizing the 3D barcode 30 with the original data D1, the data distribution step of step S4 is performed. That is, the computer performs processing for distributing the composite data D2 to the user via the network N such as the Internet. In practice, in this data distribution stage, DRM addition processing is performed on the data to be distributed, but this DRM addition processing at the time of distribution is not an essential item for carrying out the present invention. In §5 below, a modification of the present invention will be described.

  Then, the data reception stage of step S5 and the model creation stage of step S6 are executed. The processes in steps S1 to S4 described so far are processes performed by a distributor who distributes 3D printer output data, whereas the processes in steps S5 and S6 are performed in response to data distribution. This process is performed by the user, and is actually a process executed by a computer operated by the user.

  First, the user receives the composite data D2 distributed in step S4 via the network N such as the Internet by the data reception stage processing in step S5. Then, the composite data D2 is given to the 3D printer by the processing of the modeling object creation stage in step S6, and the output modeling object H is generated. As shown in FIG. 2, a 3D barcode 30 made of a concavo-convex structure surface is embedded in the output model H that is output based on the composite data D2, but the outer shape of the output model H is the original data. It is the same as the outer shape of the output shaped object M output based on D1. Therefore, if the output modeling object H is created with an opaque material, the general user will not be aware of the presence of the 3D barcode 30 at all.

  However, since the unique code 10 is embedded as the 3D barcode 30 in the output model H, it can be read and detected if necessary. The code detection stage of step S7 is a stage executed according to such necessity, and is usually executed by a distributor who delivered the composite data D2, a copyright management organization, or the like.

  In the code detection stage of step S7, the uneven structure surface is recognized by being scanned from the outside by scanning the output modeling object H (the output modeling object obtained by applying the composite data D2 to the 3D printer) and embedded in the interior. A process of extracting the 3D barcode 30 and detecting the unique code 10 is performed. Specifically, the concavo-convex structure surface 30 may be recognized by scanning the output shaped object H from the outside using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like.

  For example, if the entire circumference of the outer side surface is scanned with an X-ray CT scanner device so as to cut the region of the 3D barcode 30 in the output shaped article H as shown in FIG. 7 in the horizontal direction, FIG. A monochrome pattern of the one-dimensional barcode 21 as shown in FIG. 5 is obtained as a planar image (tomographic image). If this is recognized by the barcode recognition program, the original unique code 10 can be read. Actually, the inventor of the present application scanned the output modeling object H made of resin and the output modeling object H made of gypsum with an X-ray CT scanner device, and as a result, clearly shows a one-dimensional barcode 21 and a two-dimensional barcode 22. A plane image could be obtained.

  Of course, as long as the general user outputs the output shaped object H using the composite data D2 within the range permitted by the distributor or within the range of private use specified in the Copyright Law, the code detection stage of step S7 There is no need to do.

  However, if there is a possibility that a large amount of the output shaped object H is illegally distributed in the market, the output shaped object H is obtained, the unique code 10 is detected by performing the code detection step, and the necessary treatment is performed. It becomes possible to take. That is, by detecting the unique code 10, the origin of the output modeled object H becomes clear, and it is proved that the distributor who delivered the composite data D2 or the related person is the copyrighted work. Becomes easier. In addition, by specifying the unique code 10, it becomes easy to specify the user who started the illegal copy.

  As described above, in the present invention, the code detection stage in step S7 may be actually performed less frequently, but the 3D printer output data is distributed in a format that can guarantee the execution of the code detection stage in step S7. Thus, a deterrent against illegal activities can be applied, and appropriate copyright protection can be performed for the output shaped object H that is finally obtained.

<<< §3. Specific procedure for 3D barcode synthesis stage >>
Next, the basic principle of the method for creating the synthesized data D2 executed in the 3D barcode synthesis stage of step S3 in the flowchart of FIG. 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, 3D printer output data for outputting the cubic three-dimensional structure 50 shown in FIG. 4 as the output product M is prepared as the original data D1, and the one-dimensional barcode 21 shown in FIG. A specific example in which the uneven structure surface shown in FIG. 6 (b) prepared as a 3D barcode 30 is prepared based on the above will be combined to create a composite data D2.

  FIG. 8 is a front sectional view showing the principle of creating the composite data D2 by compositing the 3D barcode 30 with the original data D1 described above. FIG. 8A is a front sectional view showing a cubic three-dimensional structure 50 (output product M) represented by the original data D1. As shown in the figure, the original data D1 is 3D modeling data that defines a three-dimensional closed space region G1 composed of cubes arranged in a three-dimensional space. More specifically, the original data D1 is data indicating the boundary surface g1 (six surfaces constituting a cube) of the three-dimensional closed space region G1 (polygon vertex coordinates constituting each surface and a method for each surface). If the 3D printer 150 is provided, the cubic three-dimensional structure 50 shown in FIG. 4 is output as the output product M.

  On the other hand, FIG. 8 (b) is a front sectional view showing a three-dimensional block 35 on which the concavo-convex structure surface 30 (3D barcode) indicated by the bold line in FIG. 6 (b) is formed. The three-dimensional block 35 is a block having a three-dimensional shape as shown in the upper right of FIG. 2, and the upper surface forms a concavo-convex structure surface 30 corresponding to the one-dimensional barcode 21, but the other five surfaces are simple. It is a flat surface and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole. Of course, in practice, the 3D modeling data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 is obtained by dividing the surface g2 (including the concavo-convex structure surface 30) of the three-dimensional closed space region G2 into a large number of polygons, and apexes of the individual polygons. It is constituted by data indicating coordinates and normal vectors for each polygon. If the data is given to the 3D printer 150, the three-dimensional block 35 having the shape shown in the upper right of FIG. 2 is output as an output product.

  In short, the 3D modeling data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 is 3D modeling data defining the three-dimensional closed space region G2 arranged in the three-dimensional space. However, the three-dimensional closed space region G2 needs to satisfy the condition “included in the three-dimensional closed space region G1”. This is because the concavo-convex structure surface (3D barcode) 30 needs to be embedded in the final output shaped object H. In FIG. 8B, for reference, the position of the boundary surface g1 of the three-dimensional closed space region G1 (cube defined by the original data D1) is indicated by a broken line. It can be seen that the three-dimensional closed space region G2 (three-dimensional block 35) surrounded by the boundary surface g2 is completely accommodated inside the three-dimensional closed space region G1 surrounded by the boundary surface g1.

  As described above, the three-dimensional block 35 is included in the three-dimensional closed space region G1 defined by the original data D1, and the uneven structure surface (3D barcode) shown in FIG. If it is defined as the three-dimensional closed space region G2 in which 30 is formed, it may actually be defined as a block having any three-dimensional shape. Of course, in order to satisfy the above conditions, it is necessary to perform appropriate scaling for the size of the three-dimensional block 35 and appropriate position adjustment for the arrangement in the three-dimensional coordinate system.

  The size and arrangement of the three-dimensional block 35 may be set theoretically as long as the condition “included in the three-dimensional closed space region G1” is satisfied. At this stage, it is necessary to recognize the concavo-convex structure surface 30 by scanning the output shaped object H from the outside using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like, and to extract the 3D barcode embedded therein. Above, a certain size is secured so that a 3D barcode can be extracted with sufficient resolution, and in order to secure the strength of the outer shell of the output shaped object H, the three-dimensional closed space region G1 can be as much as possible. It is preferable to perform the setting so as to be arranged at the center position.

  In the illustrated example, the concavo-convex structure surface 30 is formed on the upper surface of the three-dimensional block 35. However, the concavo-convex structure surface 30 may be formed on the side surface or the lower surface of the block. However, considering the above-described work of the code detection stage, in practice, it is preferable to form on a surface convenient for scanning operation (for example, an upper surface as shown). Of course, the three-dimensional block 35 does not necessarily have to be a rectangular parallelepiped block as in the illustrated example, and may be an arbitrary three-dimensional shape, but considering a scanning operation using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like. It is preferable that the other surface is constituted by a simple plane so that the concavo-convex structure surface 30 can be photographed as a clear plane image as much as possible. Therefore, in practice, it is preferable to employ a structure in which the concavo-convex structure surface 30 is formed on one surface of a rectangular parallelepiped block.

  When the three-dimensional shape of the three-dimensional block 35 (ie, the three-dimensional closed space region G2) as shown in FIG. 8 (b) can be defined in this way, the three-dimensional block 35 is shown in FIG. 8 (a). What is necessary is just to perform the synthetic | combination process embedded in the space area | region G1 (closed area | region defined by the original data D1), and just to produce the synthetic data D2. FIG. 8 (c) is a front sectional view showing the structure of the output shaped article H obtained by performing such a synthesis process.

  As shown in the figure, the output shaped object H has an outer surface constituted by the boundary surface g1 of the three-dimensional closed space region G1, an inner surface constituted by the boundary surface g2 of the three-dimensional closed space region G2, and has a cavity V inside. A three-dimensional closed space region G3 (hatched portion) is formed. In the actual output model H, the portion of the three-dimensional closed space region G3 is made of a material such as resin or gypsum, and the portion of the cavity V is filled with air or another material.

  Finally, in the case of the example shown here, in the data input stage of step S1, as shown in FIG. 8 (a), the original data D1 indicating the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is input, In the 3D barcode synthesis stage of S3, as shown in FIG. 8 (b), the unevenness included in the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 and part of the boundary surface g2 becomes a 3D barcode. A second three-dimensional closed space region G2 forming the structural surface 30 is defined, and as shown in FIG. 8C, the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is defined as the outer surface, A third three-dimensional closed space region G3 having the boundary surface g2 of the three-dimensional closed space region G2 as an inner surface is defined, and information indicating the outer surface g1 and the inner surface g2 of the third three-dimensional closed space region G3 is included. What is necessary is just to perform the process which produces the synthetic | combination data D2. If such composite data D2 is given to the 3D printer, the external shape is a cube, and an output shaped object H in which the concavo-convex structure surface 30 is formed is output.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration of 3D modeling data corresponding to the cross-sectional view of FIG. FIG. 9A shows the data structure of the original data D1 corresponding to the cubic output shaped object M shown in FIG. 8A, and corresponds to a front view of the output shaped object M. FIG. As described above, the original data D1 is data for defining the first three-dimensional closed space region G1, and is for six squares (boundary surfaces of the three-dimensional closed space region G1) constituting six surfaces. Are composed of data indicating the vertex coordinates and the normal vector.

  In the figure, five of these, that is, boundary surfaces g11, g12, g13, g14, and g15, and normal vectors N11, N12, N13, N14, and N15 are shown. The boundary surface g11 is a surface on the near side of the cube, and the normal vector N11 is a vector facing the front direction perpendicular to the paper surface. Although not shown in the drawing, a boundary surface g16 and a normal vector N16 are defined on the back side as the sixth surface. Each of the six boundary surfaces has a square shape, and one square is defined by the coordinate values of its four vertices. For example, the illustrated boundary surface g11 can be defined by the coordinate values of the four vertices A, B, C, and D. Each normal vector only needs to be able to define orientation information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, when the vector is translated so that the origin of the vector is at the origin O, the tip point P of the vector Can be defined as coordinate values.

  On the other hand, FIG. 9B shows a data configuration of the three-dimensional block 35 (block having a concavo-convex structure surface that becomes the 3D barcode 30) shown in FIG. 8B. In the figure, in order to clarify the positional relationship of the three-dimensional block 35, a boundary surface g1 (corresponding to g12 to g15 in FIG. 9A) of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is indicated by a broken line. The external shape of the three-dimensional block 35 is as shown in the upper right of FIG. 2, but in fact, even if the data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 illustrated in FIG. An object as shown in the upper right of is not output. This is because all the normal vectors (arrows in the figure) defined for each boundary surface face inward as shown.

  As described above, the normal vector is information for indicating the front and back of each surface (inside / outside of the structure). In the example shown here, the direction of the normal vector is information indicating the outside of the structure. It is used as. For example, each of the normal vectors N11 to N16 included in the original data D1 shown in FIG. 9A indicates that the outside of the boundary surfaces g11 to g16 (the side indicated by the arrow) is the outside of the structure. The inner part of the three-dimensional closed space region G1 surrounded by the boundary surfaces g11 to g16 constitutes the structure. Therefore, if this original data D1 is given to a 3D printer, a cubic shaped object M is output.

  On the other hand, each normal vector included in the data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 shown in FIG. 9B indicates that the inner side of the boundary surface g2 (the side indicated by the arrow) is the outer side of the structure. Thus, the outer part of the three-dimensional closed space region G2 surrounded by the boundary surface g2 constitutes a structure. In other words, the data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 shown in FIG. 9B is not actually data indicating the structure itself, such as the three-dimensional block 35 shown in FIG. That is, the data indicates the hollow portion V (the contour shape is the same as that of the three-dimensional block 35).

  In order to change the 3D modeling data of the three-dimensional block 35 as a physical structure to 3D modeling data indicating the cavity V, it is only necessary to reverse the direction of the normal vector for each surface. Therefore, in the 3D barcode synthesis stage of step S3, first, 3D modeling data of the three-dimensional block 35 is created, and data indicating the shape and position of each surface (polygon vertex coordinate values) is left as it is. By performing the process of reversing the direction of the normal vector with respect to, 3D modeling data indicating the cavity V as shown in FIG. 9B can be obtained.

  Finally, by synthesizing the 3D modeling data shown in FIG. 9 (a) and the 3D modeling data shown in FIG. 9 (b), synthetic data D2 as shown in FIG. 9 (c) is obtained. The synthesis process performed here is simply the 3D modeling data shown in FIG. 9 (a) (3D modeling data shown in FIG. 9 (b)) and the 3D modeling data shown in FIG. 9 (b). It is only necessary to add data (data indicating the vertex coordinates and normal vectors of each polygon constituting the three-dimensional block 35).

  As shown in FIG. 9C, the synthesized data D2 includes information on the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 included in the original data D1 and data included in the data indicating the three-dimensional block 35. 2 and the information on the boundary surface g2 of the three-dimensional closed space region G2 are included, but the direction of the normal vector for each surface is in an appropriate direction, so the boundary surface g1 Can be defined as a third three-dimensional closed space region G3 having a boundary surface g2 as an inner surface. Therefore, if this composite data D2 is given to the 3D printer, an output shaped object H as shown by hatching in FIG. 8C is obtained.

  As described above, in order for the original data D1 to output the cubic three-dimensional structure 50 shown in FIG. 4 as the output product M, the vertex coordinates of each square constituting the six faces and the normal vector defined for each square are obtained. The embodiment constituted by the data shown has been described. However, as described above, data in STL (Standard Triangulated Language) format is used as a standard for 3D printer output data. Therefore, for practical use, if this STL format data is used, the original data D1 is the vertex coordinates of each triangle when the surface of the output shaped object M is expressed as a collection of triangles as shown in FIG. It consists of data and data indicating the normal vector for each triangle. Similarly, the 3D modeling data indicating the three-dimensional block 35 is also configured by data using a triangular aggregate, and the resultant synthesized data D2 is also configured by data using a triangular aggregate. Will be.

<<< §4. Output modeling object (three-dimensional article) according to the present invention >>>
Here, a more detailed description will be given of the structure of the output shaped article H that is output by providing the 3D printer with the combined data D2 created in the 3D barcode combining stage described in §3.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the structure of the output shaped object H output from the 3D printer based on the composite data D2 shown in FIG. 9 (c). FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the outer shape of the output modeled object H arranged on the Z axis on the XYZ three-dimensional coordinate system. As described above, in the case of the example shown here, the outer shape of the output shaped object H is a cube, and in FIG. 10A, the center point Q1 on the upper surface and the center point Q2 on the lower surface are at positions where the Z axis penetrates. Has been placed. On the other hand, FIG. 10B is a front sectional view of the output model H cut along the YZ plane, and FIG. 10C is a side sectional view of the output model H cut along the XZ plane. is there.

  Each cross-sectional view shows a state in which the output shaped article H is configured by the first material portion H1 (hatched portion) and the second material portion H2 (blank portion). The first material portion H1 is a portion corresponding to the third three-dimensional closed space region G3 shown in FIG. 8C, and the second material portion H2 corresponds to the cavity portion V shown in FIG. 8C. Part. As will be described later, the first material part H1 is made of a solid such as a resin, and the second material part H2 is made of a material different from the first material part H1, such as air.

  An uneven structure surface is formed at the boundary surface between the first material portion H1 and the second material portion H2, and this uneven structure surface functions as a 3D barcode. FIG. 10D is a projection plan view showing a one-dimensional barcode 21 obtained by projecting this 3D barcode onto a projection plane U parallel to the XY plane. Here, the convex region of the concavo-convex structure surface is shown by a black region, and the concave region is shown by a white region, and the one-dimensional barcode 21 shown in FIG. 6A is reproduced. Of course, the actual concavo-convex structure surface is not colored, but using an X-ray CT scanner device or the like, the side surface of the output shaped object H is placed in the horizontal direction with the concavo-convex structure surface shown in FIG. If the entire circumference is scanned so as to cut, the convex region and the concave region of the concavo-convex structure surface are recognized as different regions based on the level difference of the concavo-convex structure, and if these regions are displayed separately in white and black, A monochrome pattern of the one-dimensional barcode 21 as shown can be extracted.

  Eventually, when the output shaped object H output from the 3D printer is grasped as a three-dimensional article using the present invention, the article is an article to which a unique code 10 for copyright protection is added, and FIG. c), the outer surface constituting the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 and the second three-dimensional closed space region G2 included in the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 This is a three-dimensional article having an inner surface constituting the boundary surface g2.

  Here, the third three-dimensional closed space region G3 formed as a space between the outer surface and the inner surface is filled with the first material made of solid, constitutes the first material portion H1, and the second tertiary The former closed space region G2 is filled with a second material made of a material different from the first material, and constitutes a second material portion H2. In addition, a concavo-convex structure surface constituting a 3D barcode is formed on a part of the inner surface, and this concavo-convex structure surface is formed on a code forming surface E composed of a predetermined plane as shown in FIG. And a convex region (black region Bk) arranged on an offset surface F obtained by translating the code forming surface E by a predetermined step distance d. It is composed by the body.

  Then, a projection plane U disposed at a position parallel to the code forming surface E and the offset surface F is defined, and when the concave and convex regions are orthogonally projected onto the projection plane U, FIG. ), The one-dimensional barcode 21 (or two-dimensional barcode 22) indicating the unique code 10 for copyright protection is formed by the projection image of the concave region and the projection image of the convex region. Become.

  Common 3D printers currently on the market are roughly classified into resin type and plaster type. FIG. 11 is a front cross-sectional view showing a molded object output process by a general resin type 3D printer. In this type of printer, a small amount of liquid resin is discharged from the resin discharge nozzle 152 to the upper surface of the modeling table 151, and the operation of curing the resin is repeatedly performed for each layer from the lower layer to the upper layer. It has a function to output a modeled object specified in. The figure shows a state in which the formation processing of the layers L1, L2, and L3 is completed and the formation processing of the layer L4 is being executed. By controlling whether or not to discharge the resin while moving the resin discharge nozzle 152, the resin part filled with resin (mesh hatched part) and the cavity part filled with air (blank part) are formed. It can be formed as appropriate.

  On the other hand, FIG. 12 is a front sectional view showing a molded object output process by a general gypsum type 3D printer. This type of printer is filled with gypsum raw material (calcined gypsum) made of powder inside the modeling container 153 for each layer, and a small amount of water is ejected from the liquid discharge nozzle 154, which is infiltrated into the calcined gypsum. The function of outputting the modeled object specified by the data is performed by repeatedly performing the hardening operation for each layer from the lower layer to the upper layer. The portion of the calcined gypsum that has absorbed water solidifies, but the portion that has not absorbed water remains in a powder state.

  FIG. 12 shows a state where the formation processing of the layers L1, L2, and L3 is completed and the formation processing of the layer L4 is being executed. By controlling whether or not to discharge water while moving the liquid discharge nozzle 154, the powder remains as the original powder with the solidified gypsum part (mesh hatched part) in which the calcined gypsum of the raw material is solidified A plaster part (hatched part by dots) can be formed as appropriate. Finally, if the powdered calcined gypsum remaining as a powder gypsum part is discharged, the part constitutes a hollow part. Of course, the powder gypsum part may be left inside.

  FIG. 13A is a front sectional view showing the internal structure of the output shaped article H according to the present invention created by the resin type 3D printer illustrated in FIG. As shown in the figure, this output shaped article H is composed of a resin part Ha made of a solidified resin and a hollow part Hb filled with air. If an opaque resin is used, this output shaped article H uses an opaque solid material as the first material constituting the first material part H1 in the structure shown in FIG. This is an example in which air is used as the second material constituting H2.

  On the other hand, FIG. 13B is a front sectional view showing the internal structure of the output shaped article H according to the present invention created by the gypsum type 3D printer illustrated in FIG. As shown in the figure, this output shaped article H is composed of a solidified gypsum part Hc obtained by reacting water with calcined gypsum serving as a raw material and solidified, and a powder gypsum part Hd in which powdery calcined gypsum is left as it is. . The output model H is a second material constituting the second material portion H2 using an opaque solid material as the first material constituting the first material portion H1 in the structure shown in FIG. 10 (b). As an example, the raw material for producing the solid material is used.

  Thus, if the output modeling object H created in the modeling object creation stage in step S6 of the flowchart of FIG. 3 is grasped as a three-dimensional article, it is composed of steps S1, S2, S3, and S6 in the flowchart of FIG. This method is a process that constitutes a method of manufacturing a three-dimensional article that uses a 3D printer to manufacture a three-dimensional article to which a unique code 10 for copyright protection is added.

  That is, this process includes original data D1 for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code 10 added to the original data D1 for copyright protection. And a data input stage (step S1), a 3D barcode creation stage (step S2) in which the computer creates a 3D barcode 30 having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code 10, and a computer A 3D barcode synthesis step (step S3) for creating the synthesized data D2 by synthesizing the 3D barcode 30 with the original data D1, and the computer gives the synthesized data D2 to the 3D printer 150 to produce the output model H. And a modeling object creation stage (step S6) to be obtained.

  Here, in the data input stage of step S1, original data D1 indicating the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is input, and in the 3D barcode creation stage of step S2, a predetermined code formation plane E is input. In addition, a one-dimensional barcode 21 or a two-dimensional barcode 22 composed of an aggregate of the black region Bk and the white region Wh corresponding to the unique code 10 is created, and one of the black region Bk and the white region Wh is formed as a code. A movement process is performed in which a predetermined step distance d is moved in a direction orthogonal to the plane E, and a process of forming an uneven structure surface by the black area Bk and the white area Wh after the movement process is performed.

  In the 3D barcode synthesis stage of step S3, the second tertiary is included in the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 and part of the boundary surface g2 forms the concavo-convex structure surface. A third three-dimensional closed space that defines the original closed space region G2, the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is an outer surface, and the boundary surface g2 of the second three-dimensional closed space region G2 is an inner surface. A process of defining a region G3 and creating composite data D3 including information indicating the outer surface and the inner surface of the third three-dimensional closed space region G3 is performed. And in the modeling object creation stage of step S6, the process which outputs the output modeling object H in which the said uneven structure surface was formed from a 3D printer is performed, and a three-dimensional article is manufactured as the said output modeling object H become.

<<< §5. Modified example for performing DRM addition processing >>>
Here, a description will be given of a modification in which DRM addition processing is performed at the time of distribution when performing the copyright protection method according to the present invention. In §1, the conventional general distribution form of 3D printer output data has been described with reference to FIG. In this conventional distribution form, the DRM addition process 141 is performed when distributing the 3D printer output data D via the network N, and the DRM release process 142 is performed when the data is received by the user. As described above, as specific DRM addition processing 141, encryption processing and digital watermark embedding processing are used.

  Such DRM addition processing is processing for protecting the copyright for the 3D printer output data itself to be distributed, whereas the present invention does not protect the copyright for the data itself, but from the 3D printer. The purpose is to protect the copyright for the output actual object that has been output. Therefore, DRM addition processing such as encryption processing and digital watermark embedding processing at the time of data distribution is not directly related to the operational effects of the present invention, but in practice, the data itself is prevented from being illegally used. Therefore, it is preferable to perform DRM addition processing at the time of distribution.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a 3D printer output data distribution form according to a modification of the present invention to which such DRM addition processing at the time of distribution is added. The basic procedure of the distribution form shown here is the same as that of the basic embodiment described in §2. First, a 3D barcode 30 expressing a unique code for copyright protection as a concavo-convex structure surface is synthesized with original data D1 for 3D printer output having a format in which a predetermined model can be output by a 3D printer. Thus, composite data D2 for 3D printer output is created. The synthesis process of the 3D barcode 30 performed here is, so to speak, a DRM addition process for an output shaped article.

  Subsequently, a data distribution stage of distributing the composite data D2 via the network N such as the Internet is performed. At this time, a distribution DRM addition process 143 is executed. Specifically, this processing is encryption processing for encrypting the composite data D2, and embedding processing for embedding an embedded code added for copyright protection as a digital watermark in the composite data D2. The distribution data D3 shown in the figure is data obtained by performing this encryption process and embedding process on the composite data D2, and the composite data D2 is distributed in the form of such distribution data D3. Will be.

  On the other hand, after receiving the distribution data D3 distributed in this way, the user executes the distribution DRM release processing 144. This process is a process in which the distribution data D3 is decrypted to obtain the composite data D2 ′. Since the process of removing the embedded digital watermark is not performed, the composite data D2 ′ is slightly different from the composite data D2 before distribution and is data in which the digital watermark is embedded inside.

  Since the distribution data D3 is encrypted, only authorized users who can perform the decryption process using the decryption key are permitted to use the distribution data D3. In addition, since the distribution data D3 and the composite data D2 ′ are in a state where a predetermined embedded code is embedded as a digital watermark, if the embedded code is extracted and recognized, the distribution data D3 and the composite data D2 ′ are combined. The origin of the data D2 'can be confirmed, and the copyright protection function for the data itself is activated.

  When the user gives the composite data D2 ′ thus obtained to the 3D printer 150, an output shaped object H is output. As described above, the 3D barcode 30 is embedded as an uneven structure surface in the output model H. This 3D barcode 30 functions as a DRM for an output shaped article.

  The composite data D2 ′ is in a state where a predetermined embedded code is embedded as a digital watermark, and is given to the 3D printer 150 in that state. Therefore, when the digital watermark embedding process is performed in the distribution DRM addition process 143, it is necessary to perform the embedding process in such a way that no problem occurs when the 3D printer 150 outputs the output modeling object H. . As one method of such embedding processing, here, a method of embedding an embedded code in normal vector data will be described.

  As described with reference to FIG. 5 in §2, the 3D modeling data in the STL format used in a general 3D printer is obtained when the surface of the output shaped object H is expressed by an aggregate of a large number of triangles. It is composed of data indicating the vertex coordinate value of each triangle and the normal vector for each triangle. For example, the information on the triangle t shown by hatching in FIG. 15 is composed of coordinate values indicating the positions of the three vertices A, B, and C and information indicating the normal vector Nt.

  Specifically, as shown in the lower block of the figure, the information of the triangle t includes the coordinates of the vertex A (xa, ya, za), the coordinates of the vertex B (xb, yb, zb), and the coordinates of the vertex C (xc , Yc, zc) and information (xt, yt, zt) indicating the normal vector Nt. Here, the information (xt, yt, zt) indicating the normal vector Nt is parallel to the position where the normal vector Nt starting from the center position of the triangle t starts from the origin O, as described in FIG. It is the coordinate value of the tip point P of the vector Nt when moved.

  Data in the STL format is data originally used for data exchange of 3D modeling data in the computer graphics field. In this STL format data, the normal vector Nt is indispensable information. This is because the information of the normal vector Nt is used for calculating the luminance value of the triangle t in the lighting calculation in the computer graphics field. This is necessary. However, in the application of the 3D printer, the normal vector Nt only serves to indicate which face of the triangle t is the outer face with respect to the output shaped object H.

  In consideration of such a role, it can be understood that there is no influence on the output model H to be obtained even if the direction of the normal vector Nt is slightly changed when the model is output by at least a 3D printer. That is, the normal vector Nt is a vector orthogonal to the triangle t and is a vector that forms an angle of 90 ° with respect to the triangle t. Even if the angle is 89 ° or 91 °, The function of indicating the outer surface of the triangle t is not impaired. In other words, even if the vector Nt (0) obtained by inclining the normal vector Nt shown in FIG. 15 by the minute angle θ is used instead of the normal vector Nt, the function indicating the outer surface of the triangle t is not changed. Absent.

  Therefore, here, the data indicating the normal vector Nt (the coordinate value of the tip point P when translated to the position starting from the origin O) is increased or decreased to add a 1-bit code to the information of the triangle t. I will embed it. Specifically, as shown in the figure, when bit 0 is embedded, it is represented by coordinate values (xt + δ, yt, zt−δ) instead of the normal vector Nt represented by coordinate values (xt, yt, zt). The normal vector Nt (0) is used, and when the bit 1 is embedded, the normal vector Nt (1) indicated by the coordinate values (xt + δ, yt + δ, zt−2δ) is used.

  Here, δ is a minute value, and usually the LSB bit value 1 of the bit string indicating each coordinate value may be set to δ. For example, “xt + δ” indicates that 1 bit is added to the LSB of the original coordinate value xt, and “zt−δ” indicates that 1 bit is subtracted from the LSB of the original coordinate value zt. Subtraction is performed together with addition because the normal vector is a unit vector, so that adjustment is performed so that the vector length does not change.

  The original normal vector Nt indicated by the coordinate value (xt, yt, zt) is a correct normal vector orthogonal to the triangle t, whereas the method indicated by the coordinate value (xt + δ, yt, zt−δ). The normal vector Nt (1) indicated by the line vector Nt (0) and the coordinate values (xt + δ, yt + δ, zt−2δ) is a vector that is not orthogonal to the triangle t. Although it cannot be called, as described above, since the role of the normal vector is to indicate which surface of the triangle t is the outer surface, the normal vector Nt is converted into the normal vector Nt (0). Or replacing with Nt (1) does not cause any trouble.

  It should be noted that when such replacement data is used for rendering in the computer graphics field, it may cause problems. In the computer graphics field, for the purpose of rendering effects such as smooth shading and bump mapping, a method of intentionally shifting the normal vector Nt from the direction orthogonal to the triangle t may be used. An operation to displace the normal vector is performed for the purpose (Originally, the normal vector can be uniquely determined from the three vertices of the triangle, but in the computer graphics field, in response to a request to displace only the normal vector In the STL format, a normal vector can be defined for each triangle separately from the three vertices.)

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a specific example in which a digital watermark is embedded in 3D modeling data based on the basic principle shown in FIG. The example shown is an example of ASCII format STL data, and shows the normal vector Nt defined for one triangle and the x, y, z coordinate values of the three vertices A, B, and C of the triangle ( The number before the symbol e indicates the real part, and the number after the symbol e indicates the exponent).

  When bit 0 is embedded in such triangle information, the data of normal vector Nt may be replaced with data of normal vector Nt (0) as shown. Specifically, 1 is added to the end bit of the real part of the x coordinate value, and 1 is subtracted from the end bit of the real part of the z coordinate value. Similarly, when bit 1 is embedded, the data of normal vector Nt may be replaced with the data of normal vector Nt (1) as shown. Specifically, 1 is added to the end bit of the real part of the x coordinate value, 1 is added to the end bit of the real part of the y coordinate value, and 2 is subtracted from the end bit of the real part of the z coordinate value. Yes.

  Here, a process of embedding 1-bit information in information indicating one triangle is shown, but if a similar process is performed for a plurality of triangles, information of arbitrary bits can be embedded as a digital watermark. Of course, the 3D modeling data does not necessarily need to be data in a format using triangles, and may be data in a format using arbitrary polygons.

  In short, when the embedding method shown here is adopted, in the 3D barcode synthesis stage, synthesis including coordinate data indicating the vertex positions of a plurality of polygons and normal vector data indicating the front and back of each polygon The embedding process may be executed by creating data and changing the values of some of the bits constituting the normal vector data in the data distribution stage.

<<< §6. System for data distribution and copyright protection according to the present invention >>>
Finally, the present invention will be described as a system for distributing 3D printer output data and protecting copyright. FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the basic configuration of such a system. This system distributes 3D printer output data and is a system having a function of protecting the copyright of an output modeled object.

  First, the part that distributes the data for 3D printer output in this system is composed of a data input unit 160, a 3D barcode creation unit 170, a 3D barcode synthesis unit 180, and a data delivery unit 190 as shown in the figure. Is configured by incorporating a dedicated program into one or a plurality of computers.

  Here, the data input unit 160 includes original data D1 for 3D printer output having a format in which a predetermined model can be output by the 3D printer, and a unique code 10 added to the original data D1 for copyright protection. And processing to input.

  On the other hand, the 3D barcode creating unit 170 creates the 3D barcode 30 composed of the concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code 10. Specifically, as described in §2, first, the unique code 10 is expressed by the one-dimensional barcode 21 or the two-dimensional barcode 22. These flat bar codes 20 are composed of an aggregate of black areas and white areas formed on a predetermined code forming plane. Therefore, a movement process is performed in which one of the black area and the white area is moved by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and the uneven structure surface is formed by the black area and the white area after the movement process. May be formed.

  Further, the 3D barcode synthesizing unit 180 synthesizes the 3D barcode 30 with the original data D1, thereby creating synthetic data D2 that can output an output shaped article in which the uneven structure surface is formed. This synthesizing process is included in the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 indicated by the original data D1 and a part of the boundary surface g2 as described in detail in section 3 with reference to FIG. Defines the second three-dimensional closed space region G2 that forms the concavo-convex structure surface 30 to be a 3D barcode, the boundary surface g1 of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1 is the outer surface, and the second three-dimensional A third three-dimensional closed space region G3 having the boundary surface g2 of the closed space region G2 as an inner surface is defined, and composite data D2 including information indicating the outer surface and the inner surface of the third three-dimensional closed space region G3 is created. It becomes processing to do.

  The data distribution unit 190 performs a process of distributing the created composite data D2 via the network N such as the Internet. At this time, as described in §5, the data distribution unit 190 performs DRM addition processing such as encryption processing and digital watermark embedding processing on the composite data D2, and distributes it in the form of distribution data D3. It has a function to perform.

  On the other hand, the data receiving unit 195 is configured by a user's computer that uses the distributed data, and the 3D printer 150 is a printer connected to the user's computer. The data receiving unit 195 receives the distribution data D3 via the network N, decodes it by DRM release processing, and outputs composite data D2 ′. The composite data D2 ′ is data in a state where a digital watermark is embedded therein, but as described above, there is no problem in the printing operation by the 3D printer 150. When the user provides the composite data D2 ′ to the 3D printer 150, the output modeling object H is output from the 3D printer 150.

  The code detection unit 200 is a device that performs processing for recognizing the uneven structure surface embedded inside by scanning the output shaped object H from the outside, and extracting the 3D barcode 30. Specifically, An X-ray CT scanner device is used. The unique code 10 can be read from the extracted 3D barcode 30.

  In the end, among the components shown in FIG. 17, the portion constituted by the data input unit 160, 3D barcode creation unit 170, 3D barcode synthesis unit 180, data distribution unit 190, and code detection unit 200 is a 3D printer. It will function as a system that distributes output data and protects copyright.

<<< §7. Application of unique code >>
In the above embodiments, the present invention is regarded as an invention for copyright protection, and the description has been made on the assumption that the copyright is used as the use of the unique code added to the original data for 3D printer output. However, the purpose of use of the present invention is not necessarily limited to copyright protection. Since the unique code added to the original data in the present invention can serve to indicate the origin of the original data, the present invention can be used for the purpose of protecting design rights, for example. It can also be used for the purpose of preventing unfair competition acts (such as imitation) prescribed in the Competition Prevention Law.

  In short, in the present invention, the unique code added to the original data for 3D printer output is a code embedded as a certain authentication code in a three-dimensional article (output shaped article) output from the 3D printer based on the original data. What is necessary is just to be able to perform some confirmation or authentication by reading the code from the three-dimensional article. The present invention proposes a method and system capable of adding such a unique code to an output modeled object output from a 3D printer and reading it from the output modeled object for confirmation. From such a viewpoint, a unique code addition confirmation method and a unique code addition confirmation system for an output modeled object output from a 3D printer are proposed.

10: Unique code 20: Plane barcode 21: One-dimensional barcode 22: Two-dimensional barcode (QR code (registered trademark))
30: 3D barcode (uneven structure surface)
35: 3D block (3D closed space region)
41: First material part 42: Second material part 50: Three-dimensional structure 110: CAD / CG tool 120: 3D body scanner 130: Medical CT / MRI scanner 141 1: DRM addition process 142: DRM release process 143: Distribution DRM addition processing 144: Distribution DRM release processing 150: 3D printer 151: Modeling table 152: Resin ejection nozzle 153: Modeling container 154: Liquid ejection nozzle 160: Data input unit 170: 3D barcode creation unit 180: 3D barcode Synthesizer 190: Data distributor 195: Data receiver 200: Code detector (X-ray CT scanner device)
A: vertex of the three-dimensional structure 50 a: plane constituting the three-dimensional structure 50 B: vertex Bk of the three-dimensional structure 50: black region b: plane constituting the three-dimensional structure 50 C: three-dimensional structure 50 vertexes c: plane constituting the three-dimensional structure 50 d: step distance D: 3D printer output data D1: 3D printer output data (original data)
D2: Data for 3D printer output (composite data)
D2 ': 3D printer output data (composite data: digital watermark embedded state)
D3: Data for distribution E: Code forming surface F: Offset surface G1: First three-dimensional closed space region g1: Boundary surface G2 of the first three-dimensional closed space region: Second three-dimensional closed space region g2: First Boundary surface G3 of the second three-dimensional closed space region: third three-dimensional closed space region g11 to g15: boundary surface H of the first three-dimensional closed space region G1: output shaped object (based on the composite data)
H1: 1st material part H2: 2nd material part Ha: Resin part Hb: Cavity part Hc: Solidified gypsum part Hd: Powder gypsum part L1-L4: Each layer M: Output molding (thing based on original data)
N: Network (Internet)
N11 to N15: normal vector Na: normal vector for surface a Nb: normal vector for surface b Nc: normal vector for surface c Nt: normal vector Nt (0) for triangle t: triangle t Normal vector for (bit 0 embedded)
Nt (1): normal vector for triangle t (with bit 1 embedded)
O: origin of three-dimensional coordinate system P: tip point Q1, Q2 of normal vector: center points S1 to S7: steps of flowchart t: triangle constituting a three-dimensional structure U: projection plane V: cavity Vt: Vertical wall surface Wh: White region X: Three-dimensional coordinate system coordinate axes xa, xb, xc, xt: X-coordinate value Y: Three-dimensional coordinate system coordinate axes ya, yb, yc, yt: Y-coordinate value Z: Three-dimensional coordinate system Coordinate axes za, zb, zc, zt: Z coordinate value δ: Minute value θ: Angular difference of normal vector

Claims (21)

A copyright protection method for protecting the copyright of an output model when distributing 3D printer output data,
A data input stage in which the computer inputs original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data for copyright protection; ,
A computer generates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which a computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution step in which the computer distributes the composite data;
A code detection step of extracting the 3D barcode and detecting the unique code from an output molding obtained by giving the composite data to a 3D printer;
Have
In the 3D barcode synthesizing step, synthesis is performed to obtain synthesis data that can be output from a shaped object in which the uneven structure surface is formed,
In the code detection step, the 3D printer output data copyright protection method is characterized in that the 3D barcode is extracted by recognizing the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning an output model from outside. The copyright protection method according to claim 1,
A method for protecting the copyright of 3D printer output data, wherein a 3D barcode is created based on a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode at a 3D barcode creation stage. The copyright protection method according to claim 2,
In the 3D barcode creation stage, a one-dimensional barcode or two-dimensional barcode consisting of a collection of black and white areas corresponding to the unique code is created on a predetermined code formation plane, One of the two is moved by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and the concavo-convex structure surface is formed by the black area and the white area after the movement process. A copyright protection method for data for 3D printer output. In the copyright protection method in any one of Claims 1-3,
In the data input stage, input original data indicating the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region,
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, a second 3D closed space is included in the first 3D closed space region, and a part of the boundary surface forms a concavo-convex structure surface serving as a 3D barcode. Defining a spatial region, defining a third three-dimensional closed space region having a boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region as an outer surface and a boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region as an inner surface; A method for protecting the copyright of 3D printer output data, comprising creating composite data including information indicating an outer surface and an inner surface of the third three-dimensional closed space region. In the copyright protection method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
A method for protecting the copyright of 3D printer output data, characterized in that, at the code detection stage, an uneven surface is recognized by scanning an output model from the outside using an X-ray CT scanner device. In the copyright protection method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
In the data distribution stage, the distribution data is created by performing encryption processing on the combined data, and the combined data is distributed in the form of the distribution data. A method for protecting the copyright of 3D printer output data, wherein the composite data can be used when decryption processing is performed. In the copyright protection method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
In the data distribution stage, distribution data is created by embedding an embedded code added for copyright protection as a digital watermark into the combined data, and the combined data is generated in the form of the distribution data. 3D printer output data copyright protection method, wherein the embedded code is extracted and recognized from the distribution data. The copyright protection method according to claim 7,
In the 3D barcode synthesis stage, create composite data including coordinate data indicating each vertex position of a plurality of polygons and normal vector data indicating the front and back of each polygon,
3. A method for protecting copyright of 3D printer output data, wherein, in a data distribution stage, embedding processing is executed by changing values of some of the bits constituting the normal vector data.   Composite data created by performing a 3D barcode synthesis step in the copyright protection method according to claim 1.   An output modeled object obtained by providing a 3D printer with composite data created by performing a 3D barcode synthesis step in the copyright protection method according to claim 1.   The program which makes a computer perform the data input step in the copyright protection method in any one of Claims 1-4, a 3D barcode creation step, and a 3D barcode synthesis step. A system that distributes 3D printer output data and protects the copyright of the output model,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data for copyright protection;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data delivery unit for delivering the composite data;
A code detection unit that extracts the 3D barcode and detects the unique code from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to a 3D printer;
With
The 3D barcode synthesizing unit creates synthetic data that can output an output modeling object in which the uneven structure surface is formed,
The code detection unit recognizes the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning the output modeled object from the outside, and extracts the 3D barcode, and performs distribution of 3D printer output data and copyright protection system. A method of creating 3D printer output data with a unique code added to an output model,
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A computer generates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which a computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A method of creating data for 3D printer output, comprising: A system for creating 3D printer output data with a unique code added to an output object,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A system for creating data for 3D printer output, comprising: A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional article to which a unique code is added using a 3D printer,
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A computer generates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which a computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A modeling object creation stage in which a computer obtains an output modeling object by giving the composite data to a 3D printer;
Have
In the data input step, original data indicating a boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region is input,
In the 3D barcode creation step, a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode consisting of a collection of black and white areas corresponding to the unique code is created on a predetermined code forming plane, and the black and white areas One of them is moved by a predetermined step distance d in a direction orthogonal to the code forming plane, and a concavo-convex structure surface is formed by the black area and the white area after the movement process,
In the 3D barcode synthesis step, a second three-dimensional closed space region that is included in the first three-dimensional closed space region and a part of the boundary surface forms the concavo-convex structure surface is provided. And defining a third three-dimensional closed space region having the boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region as an outer surface and the boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region as an inner surface. Create composite data containing information indicating the outer and inner surfaces of the three-dimensional closed space area
A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional article using a 3D printer, wherein a three-dimensional article is manufactured by outputting an output modeled object having the concavo-convex structure surface formed therein from a 3D printer in the modeling object creation stage. . A three-dimensional article to which a predetermined unique code is added,
An outer surface that forms a boundary surface of the first three-dimensional closed space region, and an inner surface that forms a boundary surface of the second three-dimensional closed space region included in the first three-dimensional closed space region. And
A third three-dimensional closed space region formed as a space between the outer surface and the inner surface is filled with a first material made of solid, and the second three-dimensional closed space region is filled with the first material. Filled with a second material made of a material different from the first material,
A concavo-convex structure surface constituting a 3D barcode is formed on a part of the inner surface, and the concavo-convex structure surface includes a recessed area disposed on a code forming surface formed of a predetermined plane, and the code forming surface is predetermined. Is constituted by an aggregate with a convex region arranged on an offset surface obtained by parallel translation by a step distance d of
When the concave region and the convex region are orthogonally projected onto a predetermined projection plane arranged at a position parallel to the code forming surface and the offset surface, the projected image of the concave region and the convex region A three-dimensional article to which a unique code is added, characterized in that a one-dimensional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode indicating the unique code is formed by a projected image. The three-dimensional article according to claim 16,
A three-dimensional article to which a unique code is added, characterized in that the first material is an opaque solid material and the second material is air. The three-dimensional article according to claim 16,
A three-dimensional article to which a unique code is added, wherein the first material is an opaque solid material, and the second material is a raw material for producing the solid material.   Data for 3D printer output capable of outputting the three-dimensional article according to claim 16 as a model from a 3D printer. There is a unique code addition confirmation method for confirming this by adding a unique code to the output modeling object output from the 3D printer,
A data input stage for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format in which a computer can output a predetermined shaped object with a 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A computer generates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis step in which a computer creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data distribution step in which the computer distributes the composite data;
A code detection step of extracting the 3D barcode and detecting the unique code from an output molding obtained by giving the composite data to a 3D printer;
Have
In the 3D barcode synthesizing step, synthesis is performed to obtain synthesis data that can be output from a shaped object in which the uneven structure surface is formed,
In the code detection step, a unique code is added to the output modeling object output from the 3D printer, wherein the uneven structure surface is recognized by scanning the output modeling object from outside and the 3D barcode is extracted. Confirmation method. A unique code addition confirmation system for confirming and confirming that a unique code is added to an output modeling object output from a 3D printer,
A data input unit for inputting original data for 3D printer output having a format capable of outputting a predetermined shaped object by the 3D printer, and a unique code added to the original data;
A 3D barcode creating unit that creates a 3D barcode having a concavo-convex structure surface based on the unique code;
A 3D barcode synthesis unit that creates synthesized data by synthesizing the 3D barcode with the original data;
A data delivery unit for delivering the composite data;
A code detection unit that extracts the 3D barcode and detects the unique code from an output model obtained by giving the composite data to a 3D printer;
With
The 3D barcode synthesizing unit creates synthetic data that can output an output modeling object in which the uneven structure surface is formed,
The code detection unit recognizes the concavo-convex structure surface by scanning the output modeled object from the outside, and extracts the 3D barcode, and a unique code for the output modeled object output from the 3D printer Additional confirmation system.

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