EP4364398A1 - Method and system for producing spare components - Google Patents

Method and system for producing spare components

Info

Publication number
EP4364398A1
EP4364398A1 EP22728295.1A EP22728295A EP4364398A1 EP 4364398 A1 EP4364398 A1 EP 4364398A1 EP 22728295 A EP22728295 A EP 22728295A EP 4364398 A1 EP4364398 A1 EP 4364398A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
print
printer
module
identification code
database
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22728295.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Gianluca Rocchi
Stefano COPERTINO
Angelo RONDINELLI
Giuliano Gamberini
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
GD SpA
Original Assignee
GD SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by GD SpA filed Critical GD SpA
Publication of EP4364398A1 publication Critical patent/EP4364398A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
    • H04N1/00838—Preventing unauthorised reproduction
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B33—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
    • B33Y—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3-D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3-D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING
    • B33Y50/00—Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a method and a system for producing spare components for machines, in particular but not limited to, machines for making smoking articles or food products.
  • the machines concerned are provided with components which, by their very nature, are subject to wear or sudden damage.
  • This invention therefore has for an aim to provide a method and a system for producing spare components to meet the above mentioned needs.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a system of the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a system of the invention.
  • production method a method for producing spare components 2 of a machine
  • the machine may be of any kind, preferably a machine for smoking articles and, still more preferably, a machine for processing cigarettes or similar smoking products.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing an additional, remote computer 3.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 may be, for example, a server, a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is interconnected with a communications structure (network), preferably Internet.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a 3D printer 4 (hereinafter referred to simply as printer 4).
  • printer 4 is connected to the additional, remote computer 3.
  • 3D printer is used to mean an appliance that is capable of producing three-dimensional objects, preferably in an automated manner, from a design, preferably from a digital file.
  • the printer 4 may be a 3D printer of any kind capable of making a component 2 by deposition/infilling of material.
  • the printer 4 might be, for example:
  • DMLM or SLM technology which works by depositing, or literally spreading a layer of powder (metallic or polymeric) on a bed and then melting or sintering the layer, for example by laser, only at the zones representing the cross section of the part to be made;
  • a printer based on MJF technology where a layer of powder is deposited on a bed and print heads spray chemical agents only on the areas representing the cross section of the component 2; according to this technology, melting is accomplished by heated lamps which switch on and cause the powder to melt only where the chemical agent is).
  • the printer 4 is provided with a print head for releasing material.
  • the 3D printer is able to make a part by depositing successive layers of material of a suitable nature.
  • the printer 4 is controlled by instructions which drive the print head so it releases the material according to the desired geometry.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is a computer that is integrated in the printer 4.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a database DB.
  • the database DB is a distributed architecture database of the distributed ledger type.
  • the database DB is a distributed ledger database of blockchain type.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a first write module 5 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
  • the first write module 5 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a second write module 6 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
  • the second write module 6 is associated with the additional computer 3 (the additional, remote computer 3 comprises the second write module 6).
  • the second write module 6 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing an encryption module 7.
  • the encryption module 7 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
  • the encryption module 7 is associated with the first computer 11 (that is, it forms part of the first computer 11 ).
  • the first computer 11 comprises the encryption module 7.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a decryption module 8.
  • the decryption module 8 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
  • the decryption module 8 is associated with the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 comprises the decryption module 8.
  • the production method comprises a step of transmitting to the first write module 5 a print file containing instructions for the printer 4 (to allow making the part according to the required geometry).
  • the step of transmitting the print file to the first write module 5 is carried out from a first computer 11 .
  • Transmitting the print file to the first write module 5 may occur through a generic data transfer system, such as, by way of non-limiting example, through an external memory connectable to the first module 5 by wireless connections or through the Internet (or more generally speaking, through a connection network).
  • a generic data transfer system such as, by way of non-limiting example, through an external memory connectable to the first module 5 by wireless connections or through the Internet (or more generally speaking, through a connection network).
  • the print file may be generated outside the first write module 5 and then transmitted to it.
  • the first computer 11 comprises the first write module 5.
  • the first computer 11 may be, for example, a server, a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
  • the first computer 11 may be a distributed unit, that is to say, one with distributed HW and SW elements, or it may be a single unit.
  • the print file allows the printer 4 to print at least one spare component 2.
  • the print file transmits information relating to a number of components 2 to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print.
  • the print file may also contain two or more (physical) digital files, since the different items of information it contains may be distributed among two or more electronic files in different ways.
  • print file should not be construed in a limiting manner as relating to a single (physical) digital file.
  • the identification code of a user who is enabled to print is a unique code.
  • the information relating to a number of components 2 to be printed and to an identification code of a user enabled to print correspond to (define) a print permission.
  • an identification code associated with a number of components 2 to be printed enables a user to produce a predetermined number of components 2.
  • the production method comprises a step of encrypting the print file through an encryption module 7. An encrypted print file is thus generated.
  • encrypting the print file allows the process to be made secure, protecting the print file against reading by unauthorized entities; it should be noted that the printer 4 cannot extract instructions from the encrypted print file, that is to say, the file cannot be used in the printer 4 (unless specifically decrypted).
  • the encryption module 7 comprises a symmetric cryptography (or private key cryptography) algorithm.
  • the encryption module 7 comprises an asymmetric cryptography (or key pair cryptography) algorithm.
  • the encryption module 7 comprises a public key, functional cryptography algorithm.
  • the encryption module 7 comprises a quantum cryptography algorithm with quantum key distribution.
  • the production method comprises a step of entering in the database DB, through the first write module 5, information relating to the above mentioned number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
  • the production method comprises a step of checking the database DB, through the additional, remote computer 3, for the presence of a number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
  • the production method comprises a step of checking that the identification code has print permission.
  • This print permission is, for all intents and purposes, an item of information, that is, a parameter.
  • an entity is authorized to produce components 2 if that entity’s identification code is associated with a number of components 2 to be printed greater than zero.
  • a number of components 2 to be printed greater than zero associated with a given identification code corresponds to a positive print permission, that is, to an authorization for the corresponding entity to produce the components 2.
  • a number of components 2 to be printed equal to zero associated with a given identification code corresponds to the absence of a print permission, that is to say, that identification code is not authorized to produce components 2. In the absence of authorization, the process is interrupted and it is not possible to produce any component 2.
  • checking for the print permission enables an entity (spare parts supplier) to produce components 2 only if authorized.
  • the production method comprises a step of decrypting the print file through a decryption module 8. A decrypted print file is thus generated.
  • the decryption module 8 comprises a symmetric cryptography (or private key cryptography) algorithm.
  • the decryption module 8 comprises an asymmetric cryptography (or key pair cryptography) algorithm.
  • the decryption module 8 comprises a public key, functional cryptography algorithm.
  • the decryption module 8 comprises a quantum cryptography algorithm with quantum key distribution.
  • the decryption module 8 comprises the same algorithm (e.g. symmetric cryptography) as the encryption module 7.
  • the decryption key is possessed by the decryption module 8 and/or the additional, remote computer 3, that is to say, the decryption module 8 and/or the additional, remote computer 3 comprises a memory in which the decryption key is stored.
  • decrypting the encrypted print file allows the print file to be read by whoever possesses the decryption key.
  • the production method comprises:
  • the production method comprises a step of transmitting the print file to the printer 4 through the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the step of transmitting the print file may occur through a communication computer network (e.g. Internet).
  • a communication computer network e.g. Internet
  • the step of modifying the print permission is, in other words, a step of modifying information relating to the printing of a component 2 and associated with the identification code.
  • the step of modifying the print permission in the database DB through the second write module 6, comprises a step of modifying in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
  • the step of modifying the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code comprises a step of decrementing in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
  • the authorization to produce components 2 by checking for the print permission then comprises a step of running the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4.
  • This step of running involves decrementing the number of components 2 to be printed (in association with the unique code) in the database DB by one unit for each component 2 produced by the printer 4. It should be noted, as described, that the printer 4 is capable of producing the components 2 only if the print file has been decrypted because the printer 4 is able to run it only in that case.
  • the printer 4 can produce only a predetermined quantity of components 2 based on the information in the database DB.
  • producing only a predetermined quantity of components 2 allows production to be kept under stringent control at all times.
  • the production method comprises a step of removing the print file from the printer 4.
  • the production method comprises a step of removing the print file from the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the step of removing the print file from the printer 4 and/or from the additional, remote computer 3 is carried out after the step of running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4.
  • the print file is removed from the printer 4 and/or from the additional, remote computer 3.
  • removing the print file after running it allows increasing the level of security, in particular by ensuring that (in the absence of permission) the print file cannot be run again, hence that production of components 2 cannot be replicated.
  • the production method comprises a step of temporarily storing the decrypted print file in a temporary directory in the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the temporary directory in the additional, remote computer 3 is a hidden directory.
  • the production method comprises a step of temporarily storing the decrypted print file in a temporary directory in the printer 4.
  • the temporary directory in the printer 4 is a hidden directory.
  • a hidden directory ensures that no one can read the decrypted file, that is to say, it allows increasing the level of security and prevents entities without permission from printing components 2 with the printer 4.
  • the step of decrypting the print file is carried out directly in the hidden directory.
  • the production method comprises a step of deleting the print file from the temporary directory after the step of running the printing instructions of the decrypted print file in the printer 4.
  • deleting the print file after running the instructions contained therein protects against attempts to access the decrypted print file, that is, the instructions which, if run on the printer 4, allow producing the component 2.
  • the database DB is a distributed ledger database of blockchain type.
  • the database DB comprises a plurality of processing nodes 10.
  • the production method comprises a step of preparing a module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the module 9 that defines a smart contract is defined by a software element.
  • the module 9 that defines a smart contract is stored in and performed by each of the nodes 10 of the plurality of processing nodes 10.
  • the production method comprises a step of running the module 9 that defines a smart contract on the plurality of processing nodes 10.
  • the first write module 5 is configured to send information to the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the first write module 5 is configured to receive information from the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the second write module 6 is configured to send information to the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the second write module 6 is configured to receive information from the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • neither the first write module 5 nor the second write module 6 can modify the code of the smart contract: they interact with the module 9 that defines a smart contract, sending information to it which can be stored in the database DB.
  • - modifying, through the second write module 6, the print permission in the database DB for the identification code comprise a step of sending to the module 9 that defines a smart contract the number of components 2 to be printed and/or the identification code of a user enabled to print. These steps further comprise a step of receiving from the module 9 that defines a smart contract the number of components 2 to be printed and/or the identification code of a user enabled to print. According to an aspect, the step of decrementing in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code is performed by the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the production method comprises steps of reading and/or storing information in the distributed architecture database DB of blockchain type.
  • managing the print permissions and checking them through a module 9 that defines a smart contract allows automating these procedures securely.
  • a distributed architecture database DB ensures the necessary transparency, reliability and security of the operations associated with it.
  • the distributed ledger database DB is unchangeable and thus each operation remains non-modifiable.
  • the combination between the blockchain database DB and the module 9 that defines a smart contract ensures total, secure traceability. It should be noted, more generally speaking, that transmission of the print file among the different modules/computers can be carried out through a communication computer network (e.g. Internet) in which one of the modules/computers transmits the print file to, or places it at the disposal of, the other module.
  • a communication computer network e.g. Internet
  • a system 1 for producing spare components 2 of a machine is defined according to this invention.
  • the system 1 comprises an additional, remote computer 3.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 may be a distributed unit, that is to say, one with distributed HW and SW elements, or it may be a single unit.
  • the system 1 comprises a printer 4.
  • the printer 4 is connected to the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the system 1 comprises a distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type. According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a first write module 5 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
  • the first write module 5 is configured to enter in the database DB information representing a number of components 2 to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print and corresponding to a print permission.
  • the system 1 comprises a second write module 6 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB associated with the additional, remote computer 3.
  • the system 1 comprises an encryption module 7.
  • the encryption module 7 is configured to encrypt the print file to generate an encrypted print file.
  • the system 1 comprises a decryption module 8.
  • the decryption module 8 is configured to decrypt the print file to generate a decrypted print file.
  • the system 1 comprises a print file containing instructions for the printer 4.
  • the print file allows printing at least one spare component 2.
  • the system 1 comprises a first computer 11 .
  • the first computer 11 is configured to transmit the print file to the first write module 5.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to check whether the database DB contains a number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to check the identification code for a print permission.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to run on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file. Running the instructions allows printing the spare component 2 with the printer 4.
  • the second write module 6 is configured to modify the print permission in the database DB for the identification code.
  • the second write module 6 is configured to modify at least one information item relating to the printing of a component 2 and associated with the identification code.
  • the printer 4 after running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4, the printer 4 is configured to remove the print file from the printer 4 itself.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to remove the print file from the additional, remote computer 3 itself.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to temporarily store the decrypted print file in a hidden temporary directory accessible to the printer 4.
  • the printer 4 is configured to temporarily store the decrypted print file in a hidden temporary directory accessible to the printer 4 itself.
  • the additional, remote computer 3 is a computer that is integrated in the printer 4.
  • the system 1 comprises a plurality of processing nodes 10 defining the distributed architecture database DB.
  • a processing node 10 may be, for example, a server or a desktop computer.
  • the plurality of processing nodes 10 constitutes a network in which each node 10 is in communication with each of the other processing nodes 10.
  • the processing nodes 10 are also storage nodes of the distributed ledger database DB.
  • the system 1 comprises a module 9 that defines a smart contract.
  • the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to be run on the plurality of processing nodes 10 that define the distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type. According to an aspect, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to be run on a database DB of blockchain type.
  • the first write module 5 and the second write module 6 are configured to send the following (in association) to the module 9 that defines a smart contract:
  • the second write module 6 is configured to receive the following from the module 9 that defines a smart contract:
  • the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to read and/or store information (data) as a function of data received from the first write module 5 and/or from the second write module 6 in a distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type (preferably of blockchain type).
  • the distributed architecture database DB is defined by (built on) an Ethereum, Ethereum Classic, or lota, or Eos, or NEO, or Waves, or Qtum, or NEM or Multiversum or R3 Corda or Ripple or Stellar platform.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Accessory Devices And Overall Control Thereof (AREA)
  • Vehicle Interior And Exterior Ornaments, Soundproofing, And Insulation (AREA)
  • Automobile Manufacture Line, Endless Track Vehicle, Trailer (AREA)
  • Multi-Process Working Machines And Systems (AREA)

Abstract

A method for producing spare components (2) of a machine comprises the following steps: - preparing an additional, remote computer (3), a 3D printer (4) connected to the additional, remote computer (3), a distributed architecture database (DB) of the distributed ledger type, a first write module (5) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB), a second write module (6) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB) associated with the additional, remote computer (3), an encryption module (7), a decryption module (8) associated with the additional, remote computer (3); - transmitting to the first write module (5) a print file containing instructions for the 3D printer (4) to allow transmitting information representing a number of components (2) to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print, corresponding to a print permission; - encrypting the print file through the encryption module (7); - entering in the database (DB), through the first write module (5), the aforesaid information; - checking for a print permission through an additional, remote computer (3); - decrypting the print file through the decryption module (8); - running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions; - modifying, through the second write module (6), the print permission in the database (DB).

Description

DESCRIPTION
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING SPARE COMPONENTS Technical field
This invention relates to a method and a system for producing spare components for machines, in particular but not limited to, machines for making smoking articles or food products.
Background art
The machines concerned are provided with components which, by their very nature, are subject to wear or sudden damage.
To reduce production costs, simplify logistics and speed up the process in the sector concerned, a need that is felt particularly strongly is to be able to produce the spare components in the vicinity of the place where the components themselves will be installed on the machines.
In order to be able to do this, there is also the technical need to control the number of spare components produced. For example, it is necessary to ensure that the authorized spare components be made in limited numbers, especially where the entity that makes the components is not also the manufacturer of the machine.
In effect, entities that are not the machine manufacturers must be placed in a position to produce all and only the components they are authorized to produce.
In this context, there is therefore a need to allow machine components to be made in a particularly simple and effective manner, and at the same time to keep a check on the numbers of components made. Aim of the invention
This invention therefore has for an aim to provide a method and a system for producing spare components to meet the above mentioned needs.
Brief description of the drawings The technical features of the invention, with reference to the above aims, are clearly described in the annexed claims and its advantages are more apparent from the detailed description which follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate a preferred, non-limiting embodiment of the invention and in which:
- Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a system of the invention;
- Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a system of the invention.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention
Defined according to this invention is a method for producing spare components 2 of a machine (referred to herein simply as “production method”).
According to an aspect, the machine may be of any kind, preferably a machine for smoking articles and, still more preferably, a machine for processing cigarettes or similar smoking products.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing an additional, remote computer 3.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 may be, for example, a server, a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 is interconnected with a communications structure (network), preferably Internet.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing a 3D printer 4 (hereinafter referred to simply as printer 4). According to the invention, the printer 4 is connected to the additional, remote computer 3.
The term “3D printer” is used to mean an appliance that is capable of producing three-dimensional objects, preferably in an automated manner, from a design, preferably from a digital file.
It should be noted that the printer 4 may be a 3D printer of any kind capable of making a component 2 by deposition/infilling of material.
The printer 4 might be, for example:
- a FFF, FDM, Polyjet printer (which deposits the material through a print head to create the 3D part layer by layer);
- a printer based on DMLM or SLM technology (which works by depositing, or literally spreading a layer of powder (metallic or polymeric) on a bed and then melting or sintering the layer, for example by laser, only at the zones representing the cross section of the part to be made);
- a printer based on MJF technology (where a layer of powder is deposited on a bed and print heads spray chemical agents only on the areas representing the cross section of the component 2); according to this technology, melting is accomplished by heated lamps which switch on and cause the powder to melt only where the chemical agent is).
According to one of the technologies mentioned above, the printer 4 is provided with a print head for releasing material.
In effect, it should be noted that the 3D printer is able to make a part by depositing successive layers of material of a suitable nature.
More generally speaking, irrespective of the type of printer 4, during the process of making the part, the printer 4 is controlled by instructions which drive the print head so it releases the material according to the desired geometry.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 is a computer that is integrated in the printer 4.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing a database DB.
According to an aspect, the database DB is a distributed architecture database of the distributed ledger type.
Preferably, the database DB is a distributed ledger database of blockchain type.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing a first write module 5 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
According to an aspect, the first write module 5 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing a second write module 6 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is associated with the additional computer 3 (the additional, remote computer 3 comprises the second write module 6).
According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing an encryption module 7.
According to an aspect, the encryption module 7 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
According to an aspect, the encryption module 7 is associated with the first computer 11 (that is, it forms part of the first computer 11 ).
In an embodiment, the first computer 11 comprises the encryption module 7.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of preparing a decryption module 8.
According to an aspect, the decryption module 8 is defined by a hardware and/or software element.
According to an aspect, the decryption module 8 is associated with the additional, remote computer 3.
In an embodiment, the additional, remote computer 3 comprises the decryption module 8.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of transmitting to the first write module 5 a print file containing instructions for the printer 4 (to allow making the part according to the required geometry). According to an aspect, the step of transmitting the print file to the first write module 5 is carried out from a first computer 11 .
Transmitting the print file to the first write module 5 may occur through a generic data transfer system, such as, by way of non-limiting example, through an external memory connectable to the first module 5 by wireless connections or through the Internet (or more generally speaking, through a connection network).
In other words, the print file may be generated outside the first write module 5 and then transmitted to it.
In an embodiment, the first computer 11 comprises the first write module 5. According to an aspect, the first computer 11 may be, for example, a server, a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
According to an aspect, the first computer 11 may be a distributed unit, that is to say, one with distributed HW and SW elements, or it may be a single unit.
According to an aspect, the print file allows the printer 4 to print at least one spare component 2.
According to an aspect, the print file transmits information relating to a number of components 2 to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print.
It should be noted that the print file may also contain two or more (physical) digital files, since the different items of information it contains may be distributed among two or more electronic files in different ways.
Thus, the expression “print file” should not be construed in a limiting manner as relating to a single (physical) digital file.
According to an aspect, the identification code of a user who is enabled to print is a unique code.
According to the invention, the information relating to a number of components 2 to be printed and to an identification code of a user enabled to print correspond to (define) a print permission.
In other words, according to an aspect, an identification code associated with a number of components 2 to be printed enables a user to produce a predetermined number of components 2.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of encrypting the print file through an encryption module 7. An encrypted print file is thus generated.
Advantageously, encrypting the print file allows the process to be made secure, protecting the print file against reading by unauthorized entities; it should be noted that the printer 4 cannot extract instructions from the encrypted print file, that is to say, the file cannot be used in the printer 4 (unless specifically decrypted).
In an embodiment, the encryption module 7 comprises a symmetric cryptography (or private key cryptography) algorithm.
In a different embodiment, the encryption module 7 comprises an asymmetric cryptography (or key pair cryptography) algorithm.
In another embodiment, the encryption module 7 comprises a public key, functional cryptography algorithm.
In yet another embodiment, the encryption module 7 comprises a quantum cryptography algorithm with quantum key distribution.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of entering in the database DB, through the first write module 5, information relating to the above mentioned number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of checking the database DB, through the additional, remote computer 3, for the presence of a number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
In other words, according to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of checking that the identification code has print permission.
This print permission is, for all intents and purposes, an item of information, that is, a parameter.
According to an aspect, an entity is authorized to produce components 2 if that entity’s identification code is associated with a number of components 2 to be printed greater than zero.
In other words, according to an aspect, a number of components 2 to be printed greater than zero associated with a given identification code corresponds to a positive print permission, that is, to an authorization for the corresponding entity to produce the components 2.
According to an aspect, a number of components 2 to be printed equal to zero associated with a given identification code corresponds to the absence of a print permission, that is to say, that identification code is not authorized to produce components 2. In the absence of authorization, the process is interrupted and it is not possible to produce any component 2. Advantageously, checking for the print permission enables an entity (spare parts supplier) to produce components 2 only if authorized.
According to the invention, the production method comprises a step of decrypting the print file through a decryption module 8. A decrypted print file is thus generated.
In an embodiment, the decryption module 8 comprises a symmetric cryptography (or private key cryptography) algorithm.
In a different embodiment, the decryption module 8 comprises an asymmetric cryptography (or key pair cryptography) algorithm.
In another embodiment, the decryption module 8 comprises a public key, functional cryptography algorithm.
In yet another embodiment, the decryption module 8 comprises a quantum cryptography algorithm with quantum key distribution.
It should be noted that the decryption module 8 comprises the same algorithm (e.g. symmetric cryptography) as the encryption module 7. Preferably, the decryption key is possessed by the decryption module 8 and/or the additional, remote computer 3, that is to say, the decryption module 8 and/or the additional, remote computer 3 comprises a memory in which the decryption key is stored.
Advantageously, decrypting the encrypted print file allows the print file to be read by whoever possesses the decryption key. According to the invention, if the result of the check is that the identification code is associated with a print permission, hence that the identification code (that is, the entity that possesses that identification code) is authorized to produce the components 2, the production method comprises:
- a step of running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4;
- a step of modifying, through the second write module 6, the print permission in the database DB for the corresponding identification code. Preferably, the production method comprises a step of transmitting the print file to the printer 4 through the additional, remote computer 3.
Preferably, in the embodiment in which the additional, remote computer 3 is not incorporated in the printer 4, the step of transmitting the print file may occur through a communication computer network (e.g. Internet).
The step of modifying the print permission is, in other words, a step of modifying information relating to the printing of a component 2 and associated with the identification code.
In a preferred embodiment, the step of modifying the print permission in the database DB through the second write module 6, comprises a step of modifying in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
According to an aspect, the step of modifying the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code comprises a step of decrementing in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
According to an aspect, the authorization to produce components 2 by checking for the print permission then comprises a step of running the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4. This step of running, involves decrementing the number of components 2 to be printed (in association with the unique code) in the database DB by one unit for each component 2 produced by the printer 4. It should be noted, as described, that the printer 4 is capable of producing the components 2 only if the print file has been decrypted because the printer 4 is able to run it only in that case.
According to an aspect, the printer 4 can produce only a predetermined quantity of components 2 based on the information in the database DB. Advantageously, producing only a predetermined quantity of components 2 allows production to be kept under stringent control at all times.
According to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of removing the print file from the printer 4.
According to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of removing the print file from the additional, remote computer 3.
The step of removing the print file from the printer 4 and/or from the additional, remote computer 3 is carried out after the step of running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4.
In other words, once the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file for producing the spare component 2 have been run, the print file is removed from the printer 4 and/or from the additional, remote computer 3.
Advantageously, removing the print file after running it allows increasing the level of security, in particular by ensuring that (in the absence of permission) the print file cannot be run again, hence that production of components 2 cannot be replicated.
According to an aspect, as illustrated in Figure 1 , the production method comprises a step of temporarily storing the decrypted print file in a temporary directory in the additional, remote computer 3.
According to an aspect, the temporary directory in the additional, remote computer 3 is a hidden directory.
According to an aspect, as illustrated in Figure 2, the production method comprises a step of temporarily storing the decrypted print file in a temporary directory in the printer 4. According to an aspect, the temporary directory in the printer 4 is a hidden directory.
Advantageously, a hidden directory ensures that no one can read the decrypted file, that is to say, it allows increasing the level of security and prevents entities without permission from printing components 2 with the printer 4.
According to an aspect, the step of decrypting the print file is carried out directly in the hidden directory.
According to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of deleting the print file from the temporary directory after the step of running the printing instructions of the decrypted print file in the printer 4. Advantageously, deleting the print file after running the instructions contained therein protects against attempts to access the decrypted print file, that is, the instructions which, if run on the printer 4, allow producing the component 2.
According to an aspect, the database DB is a distributed ledger database of blockchain type.
According to an aspect, the database DB comprises a plurality of processing nodes 10.
According to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of preparing a module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is defined by a software element.
Preferably, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is stored in and performed by each of the nodes 10 of the plurality of processing nodes 10. According to an aspect, the production method comprises a step of running the module 9 that defines a smart contract on the plurality of processing nodes 10.
According to an aspect, the first write module 5 is configured to send information to the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, the first write module 5 is configured to receive information from the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is configured to send information to the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is configured to receive information from the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
It should be noted that neither the first write module 5 nor the second write module 6 can modify the code of the smart contract: they interact with the module 9 that defines a smart contract, sending information to it which can be stored in the database DB.
According to an aspect, the steps of:
- entering in the database DB, through the first write module 5, information relating to the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code;
- checking, through the additional, remote computer 3, whether the database DB contains a number of components 2 to be printed in association with the aforesaid identification code, that is to say, checking whether the identification code has a print permission;
- modifying, through the second write module 6, the print permission in the database DB for the identification code, comprise a step of sending to the module 9 that defines a smart contract the number of components 2 to be printed and/or the identification code of a user enabled to print. These steps further comprise a step of receiving from the module 9 that defines a smart contract the number of components 2 to be printed and/or the identification code of a user enabled to print. According to an aspect, the step of decrementing in the database DB the number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code is performed by the module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, through the module 9 that defines a smart contract, the production method comprises steps of reading and/or storing information in the distributed architecture database DB of blockchain type. Advantageously, managing the print permissions and checking them through a module 9 that defines a smart contract allows automating these procedures securely.
Advantageously, the use of a distributed architecture database DB ensures the necessary transparency, reliability and security of the operations associated with it.
Advantageously, including the processes of checking, validating and enabling the production of components 2 in the blockchain database DB through the module 9 that defines a smart contract allows having a redundant, hence more secure, information item on a larger number of nodes.
Advantageously, the distributed ledger database DB is unchangeable and thus each operation remains non-modifiable.
Advantageously, the combination between the blockchain database DB and the module 9 that defines a smart contract ensures total, secure traceability. It should be noted, more generally speaking, that transmission of the print file among the different modules/computers can be carried out through a communication computer network (e.g. Internet) in which one of the modules/computers transmits the print file to, or places it at the disposal of, the other module.
Defined according to this invention, is a system 1 for producing spare components 2 of a machine.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises an additional, remote computer 3.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 may be a distributed unit, that is to say, one with distributed HW and SW elements, or it may be a single unit.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a printer 4.
According to an aspect, the printer 4 is connected to the additional, remote computer 3.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type. According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a first write module 5 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB.
According to an aspect, the first write module 5 is configured to enter in the database DB information representing a number of components 2 to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print and corresponding to a print permission.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a second write module 6 for writing to the distributed architecture database DB associated with the additional, remote computer 3.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises an encryption module 7. According to an aspect, the encryption module 7 is configured to encrypt the print file to generate an encrypted print file.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a decryption module 8. According to an aspect, the decryption module 8 is configured to decrypt the print file to generate a decrypted print file.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a print file containing instructions for the printer 4. The print file allows printing at least one spare component 2.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a first computer 11 . According to an aspect, the first computer 11 is configured to transmit the print file to the first write module 5.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to check whether the database DB contains a number of components 2 to be printed in association with the identification code.
In other words, the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to check the identification code for a print permission.
According to an aspect, if the result of the check is that the identification code (that is the component manufacturing entity associated with the identification code) possesses a print permission, the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to run on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file. Running the instructions allows printing the spare component 2 with the printer 4.
According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is configured to modify the print permission in the database DB for the identification code.
In other words, the second write module 6 is configured to modify at least one information item relating to the printing of a component 2 and associated with the identification code.
According to an aspect, after running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4, the printer 4 is configured to remove the print file from the printer 4 itself.
According to an aspect, after running on the printer 4 the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component 2 with the printer 4, the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to remove the print file from the additional, remote computer 3 itself.
According to an aspect, illustrated in Figure 1 , the additional, remote computer 3 is configured to temporarily store the decrypted print file in a hidden temporary directory accessible to the printer 4.
According to an aspect, illustrated in Figure 2, the printer 4 is configured to temporarily store the decrypted print file in a hidden temporary directory accessible to the printer 4 itself.
According to an aspect, the additional, remote computer 3 is a computer that is integrated in the printer 4.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a plurality of processing nodes 10 defining the distributed architecture database DB.
According to an aspect, a processing node 10 may be, for example, a server or a desktop computer.
According to an aspect, the plurality of processing nodes 10 constitutes a network in which each node 10 is in communication with each of the other processing nodes 10.
According to an aspect, the processing nodes 10 are also storage nodes of the distributed ledger database DB.
According to an aspect, the system 1 comprises a module 9 that defines a smart contract.
According to an aspect, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to be run on the plurality of processing nodes 10 that define the distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type. According to an aspect, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to be run on a database DB of blockchain type.
According to an aspect, the first write module 5 and the second write module 6 are configured to send the following (in association) to the module 9 that defines a smart contract:
- the identification code of a user who is enabled to print;
- the number of components 2 to be printed (for the identification code). - According to an aspect, the second write module 6 is configured to receive the following from the module 9 that defines a smart contract:
- the number of components 2 to be printed;
- the identification code of a user who is enabled to print.
According to an aspect, the module 9 that defines a smart contract is configured to read and/or store information (data) as a function of data received from the first write module 5 and/or from the second write module 6 in a distributed architecture database DB of the distributed ledger type (preferably of blockchain type).
According to another aspect, the distributed architecture database DB is defined by (built on) an Ethereum, Ethereum Classic, or lota, or Eos, or NEO, or Waves, or Qtum, or NEM or Multiversum or R3 Corda or Ripple or Stellar platform.

Claims

1) A method for producing spare components (2) of a machine, comprising the following steps:
- preparing a first computer (11 );
- preparing an additional, remote computer (3);
- preparing a 3D printer (4) connected to an additional remote computer (3);
- preparing a distributed architecture database (DB) of the distributed ledger type;
- preparing a first write module (5) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB), the first write module (5) being associated with the first computer (11);
- preparing a second write module (6) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB) associated with the additional remote computer (3);
- preparing an encryption module (7), associated with the first computer (11);
- preparing a decryption module (8) associated with the additional, remote computer (3);
- transmitting to the first write module (5), through a data transfer system, a print file containing instructions for the 3D printer (4) to allow printing at least one spare component (2) and also transmitting information representing a number of components (2) to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print, corresponding to a print permission;
- encrypting the print file through the encryption module (7);
- entering in the database (DB), through the first write module (5), the aforesaid information representing the number of components (2) to be printed in association with the identification code;
- checking, through an additional remote computer (3), whether the database (DB) contains a number of components (2) to be printed in association with the aforesaid identification code, that is to say, checking whether the identification code has a print permission;
- decrypting the print file through the decryption module (8), associated with the first computer (11 ), to generate a decrypted print file;
- if the result of the check is that the identification code is associated with a print permission:
- running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4);
- modifying, through the second write module (6), the print permission in the database (DB) for the identification code.
2) The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of modifying, through the second write module (6), the print permission in the database (DB) for the identification code comprises a step of modifying in the database (DB) the number of components (2) to be printed in association with the identification code.
3) The method according to claim 2, wherein the step of modifying the number of components (2) to be printed in association with the identification code comprises a step of decrementing in the database (DB) the number of components (2) to be printed in association with the identification code.
4) The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification code of a user is a unique code.
5) The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising, after the step of running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4), a step of removing the print file from the 3D printer (4) and/or from the additional remote computer (3).
6) The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a step of temporarily storing the decrypted print file in a temporary, hidden directory of the additional remote computer (3) and/or 3D printer (4).
7) The method according to the preceding claim, comprising a step of deleting the decrypted print file from the temporary directory after the step of running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4).
8) The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the additional remote computer (3) is a computer that is integrated in the 3D printer (4).
9) The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a step of preparing a module (9) that defines a smart contract and running the module (9) that defines a smart contract on a plurality of processing nodes (10) that define the distributed architecture database (DB) of the distributed ledger type, and wherein the first write module (5) and the second write module (6) are configured to send information to, and/or receive information from, the module (9) that defines a smart contract.
10) The method according to claim 9, comprising a step of preparing a module (9) that defines a smart contract and wherein the steps of:
- entering in the database (DB), through the first write module (5), the aforesaid information representing the number of components (2) to be printed in association with the identification code;
- checking, through the additional remote computer (3), whether the database (DB) contains a number of components (2) to be printed in association with the aforesaid identification code, that is to say, checking whether the identification code has a print permission;
- modifying, through the second write module (6), the print permission in the database (DB) for the identification code, comprise a step of sending to, and/or receiving from, the module (9) that defines a smart contract.
- the number of components (2) to be printed;
- the identification code of a user who is enabled to print.
11) A system (1 ) for producing spare components (2) of a machine, comprising:
- an additional remote computer (3); - a 3D printer (4) connected to an additional remote computer (3);
- a distributed architecture database (DB) of the distributed ledger type;
- a first write module (5) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB);
- a second write module (6) for writing to the distributed architecture database (DB) associated with the remote computer (3);
- an encryption module (7);
- a decryption module (8);
- a print file containing instructions for the 3D printer (4) to print at least one spare component (2), wherein:
- the first write module (5) is configured to enter in the database (DB) information representing a number of components (2) to be printed and an identification code of a user enabled to print and corresponding to a print permission;
- the encryption module (7) is configured to encrypt the print file to generate an encrypted print file;
- the decryption module (8) is configured to decrypt the print file to generate a decrypted print file;
- the additional remote computer (3) is configured for:
- checking whether the database (DB) contains a number of components (2) to be printed in association with the aforesaid identification code, that is to say, checking whether the identification code has a print permission;
- if the result of the check is that the identification code possesses a print permission:
- running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4);
- the second write module (6) is configured to modify the print permission in the database (DB) for the identification code.
12) The system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the 3D printer (4) is configured to remove the print file from the 3D printer (4) after running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4).
13) The system (1 ) according to claim 11 , wherein the additional, remote computer (3) is configured to remove the print file from the additional, remote computer (3) after running on the 3D printer (4) the printing instructions contained in the decrypted print file to print the spare component (2) with the 3D printer (4).
14) The system (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the additional remote computer (3) or the 3D printer (4) is configured to temporarily store the decrypted print file in a hidden temporary directory accessible to the 3D printer (4). 15) The system (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the additional remote computer (3) is a computer that is integrated in the 3D printer (4).
16) The system (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 15, comprising a plurality of processing nodes (10) that define the distributed architecture database (DB) and further comprising a module (9) that defines a smart contract, configured to be run on the plurality of processing nodes (10) that define the distributed architecture database (DB) of the distributed ledger type, wherein the first write module (5) and the second write module (6) are configured to send to and/or receive from, the module (9) that defines a smart contract:
- the number of components (2) to be printed;
- the identification code of a user who is enabled to print.
EP22728295.1A 2021-07-01 2022-05-26 Method and system for producing spare components Pending EP4364398A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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IT102021000017309A IT202100017309A1 (en) 2021-07-01 2021-07-01 Method and system for the production of spare parts
PCT/IB2022/054944 WO2023275634A1 (en) 2021-07-01 2022-05-26 Method and system for producing spare components

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US10063529B2 (en) * 2016-03-28 2018-08-28 Accenture Global Solutions Limited Secure 3D model sharing using distributed ledger
US10754323B2 (en) * 2016-12-20 2020-08-25 General Electric Company Methods and systems for implementing distributed ledger manufacturing history
EP3483808A1 (en) * 2017-11-14 2019-05-15 Wipro Limited Method and system for tracking and managing additive manufacturing of products

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