JP2017528333A - 3D scanning watermark - Google Patents

Abstract

The marker may be included in a product manufactured according to a request from the manufacturing apparatus. Markers in such marked items may be detected by a scanning device and may provide information and / or instructions related to printing a three-dimensional object based on the markers. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is an international application, US application Ser. No. 14 / 317,516 entitled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL SCANNING WATERMARK”, filed Jun. 27, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. 90204-908344 (0786600 US)). ) And US Application No. 14 / 317,559 (Attorney Docket No. 90204-909706 (079600 US)) entitled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL WATERMARK GENERATION” filed on June 27, 2014. This application also relates to the entire disclosure of co-pending copending "THREE-DIMENSIONAL WATERMARK GENERATION" US Patent No. 14 / 317,559 (Attorney Docket No. 90204-909706 (079600US)) for all purposes. Incorporated as a reference for.

  In modern electronic commerce, many commodities are bought and sold electronically. To facilitate such electronic transactions, the service provider may provide a network site or other electronic market where clients can select and order goods. The product may be one of many products offered by the electronic market. The electronic marketplace may have a system for identifying selected merchandise and ensuring that the merchandise is delivered to the client. If the client can easily duplicate the product delivered to the client, the client may choose to generate an additional copy of the product personally rather than purchasing an additional copy of the product from the electronic market. Such unpurchased copies of merchandise can reduce the demand for electronic market services and affect the revenue generated thereby. Unpurchased copies may also lack proper quality control at the time of initial production of goods provided by the service provider, thereby affecting clients that are defective or even dangerous It may happen.

  The marker may be included in a product manufactured according to a request from the manufacturing apparatus. Markers in such marked items may be detected by a scanning device and may provide information and / or instructions related to printing a three-dimensional object based on the markers.

  Various embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example system for providing and / or identifying marked items via a service provider computer system in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example system or architecture in which techniques for providing and / or identifying marked items may be implemented in accordance with at least one embodiment. 4 is a flowchart representing a process for providing marked merchandise, according to an embodiment. 4 is a flowchart representing a process for identifying marked items, according to an embodiment. Fig. 4 illustrates an environment in which various embodiments can be implemented.

  In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the described embodiments.

  The techniques described herein may include marking products that are produced on demand, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, and / or identifying products that are marked in this manner, so that information about the products is included. Including. A marker is a potential physical “watermark” to provide information about a product to a system that can detect and / or interpret the marker that is inconspicuous or not easily identifiable to the user. May serve as

  In some embodiments, the plastic image printed by the 3D printer may include data about the image designer, the date the image was printed, and / or the virtual model of the image to print additional copies of the image. Dots or other materials that can be detected and interpreted by the device (e.g., using a scanner) to indicate whether the device is allowed to acquire (e.g., corresponding to ultraviolet light of a particular frequency) May include an embedded arrangement of material that is invisible to the human eye.

  As an illustrative example, a designer may generate a three-dimensional instruction for printing a three-dimensional object. Three-dimensional instructions may be issued to a three-dimensional printing / production device (hereinafter “3D printer”). A 3D printer may be provided to print a 3D version of the object and embed a 3D watermark as part of the 3D object. At the request of the designer, the 3D printer generates and / or creates one of many different types of suitable 3D watermarks, after which the 3D watermark is in, on or as part of the 3D object. You may print. In this way, the 3D object may include a 3D watermark that can identify information regarding the 3D object, the designer, and / or copy permissions. The scanning component may use a second 3D printer, which may be the original 3D printer that printed the 3D object, to scan the 3D object and detect the 3D watermark. The second 3D printer is based at least in part on the 3D watermark and has been granted appropriate permissions and / or rights to copy the 3D object (eg, to reprint a second version of the 3D object) It may be possible to identify whether or not. Information from the 3D watermark may be utilized to examine data (eg, in a central database) related to the 3D object and / or its associated copy permissions. In this way, the copyright of the 3D object and / or the original design of the 3D object may be managed by the 3D watermark embedded in the 3D object.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system 100 that can provide one or more marked items 110 via a computer system 106 of a service provider 108. The user 102 can submit an order 104 to the computer system 106 of the service provider 108 via a personal computing device (described below). For example, the user 102 may submit an order 104 for a product presented in the electronic market and request that the product be produced in response to a request from a production device 114, such as a three-dimensional (3D) production device. The computer system 106 of the service provider 108 can issue a 3D production instruction 112 for producing the ordered product on the 3D production device 114. Marked item 110 may include a marker 124 during production by 3D production device 114. To that end, the production instruction 112 may incorporate product information 118 (ie, details about the ordered product) and marker information 116 (ie, details about the marker 124). In some embodiments, the service provider 108 computer system 106 may use the product information 118 and / or marker information 126 received from the third party 130 (eg, through the third party 130 computer system 132) to provide product information 118. And / or marker information 116 may be determined and / or generated. The marker 124 may be any suitable prominent feature (such as a particular material property or arrangement), and various embodiments of the marker 124 are described in further detail herein.

  The system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may additionally or alternatively facilitate the identification of marked items 110. The scanning device 120 may scan or sense attributes related to the marked item 110 to obtain the detection information 122. The scanning device 120 is typically owned by or accessible to the user 102. The detection information 122 (eg, scanned information) may include product information 138 (ie, details about the scanned product) and / or marker information 136 (ie, details about the marker 124). The marker information 136 may include permission information and / or instructions for performing a specific operation based on the marker information 136. In certain embodiments, marker information 136 from detection information 122 is used to communicate some interpretation and / or portions of detection information 122 to user 102, service provider 108, third party 130, and / or production device 114. Instructions may be included. In another example, the marker information 136 from the detection information 122 may indicate whether copying based on the marked product 110 is permitted.

  An example for explaining the operation of the system 100 shown in FIG. 1 will be described below. After a careful consideration, a person decides to make a statue of a palaeolithic Paleolithic person a complete “inner ring” souvenir for a colleague. That person (user 102 in this illustrative example) uses his smartphone to access an electronic market network page (provided by computer system 106 of service provider 108 in this example). User 102 places an order (ie, 104 in FIG. 1) for a product (ie, the above image) entitled “PALEO-BEARD-MAN” on the network page. A request for delivery via printing by a home 3D printer (that is, the production apparatus 114 in this embodiment) is requested. The computer system 106 interacts with a database maintained by the designers of PALEO-BEARD-MAN (ie, the Paleolithic Paleolithic) (ie, the computer system 132 of the third party 130), and the digital 3D model (ie, product information). 128) and the link to the designer's licensing department interface is encoded into all instances (ie, marker information 126) of PALEO-BEARD-MAN. Request. The computer system 106 then generates print instructions for the user's 3D printer (ie, 3D production instructions 112 for the 3D production device 114). The print instructions instruct the printer to deposit the primary material on the layer that generates the complete PALEO-BEARD-MAN (ie, Paleolithic Mane) (ie, merchandise information 118), and the secondary material Instruct the printer to deposit the particular pattern in the penultimate layer (ie, marker information 116). Following these instructions, the user's printer is located directly under the surface, so that it has a specific pattern of secondary material that is invisible to the user (PALEO-BEARD-MAN) That is, a marked product 110) having a marker 124 is generated. A colleague who was good at gifts would use a PALEO-BEARD-MAN (an old stone-aged man with a beard) to make his copy of the 3D scanner printer (ie, scanning device 120 and A device including the manufacturing device 114). During scanning (i.e., when obtaining detection information 122), the scanning device 120 uses the secondary material pattern (i.e., the marker 124) in the PALEO-BEARD-MAN (i.e., Paleolithic man with beard) to secondary An infrared sensor is used to identify based on the individual infrared signature of the material. The scan may also provide sufficient data (ie, merchandise information 138 in the detection information 122) to create a new digital model of PALEO-BEARD-MAN. The detected secondary material pattern is decoded to determine the information conveyed by the marker (ie, the marker information 136 of the detection information 122). In this illustrative example, a link to an interface with the designer's licensing department is provided to a colleague (ie, user 102) based on the marker information 136, and the production device 114 is licensed by the colleague for the designer. Generate a copy of PALEO-BEARD-MAN (Paleolithic man with cocoons) until you have the opportunity to decide whether you prefer to use the verified production instructions 112 available through the interface with the department In order to avoid using the newly created digital model.

  According to at least one embodiment, the 3D production device 114 (s) may include a 3D printer or some other 3D or multi-dimensional production device 114 as described herein. As will be appreciated, the term “manufacture” includes the production of physical objects. The 3D production device 114 may utilize any production technique that can be used to generate a three-dimensional physical object based on the 3D production instructions 112. Both addition and removal manufacturing processes can be utilized individually or in combination. For example, manufacturing techniques include hot melt lamination, electron beam freeform manufacturing, direct metal laser sintering, electron beam melting, selective laser melting, selective heating sintering, selective laser sintering, thin film lamination, stereolithography, digital light Processing and any 3D printing can be included, including gypsum, powder layer and inkjet head 3D printing. Fabrication techniques may also include machine tool automation based on digital models, such as in computer numerical control (or CNC) technology. A combination of such techniques is also used, including a support under the droop, and cutting the support using an automatic tool after the droop has hardened enough to remove the support, 3D printing of the product Etc. may be performed.

  The 3D production instructions 112 may include any type of data and / or instructions that can be utilized by the 3D production device 108 to create a product. The 3D production instructions 112 may include any data or instructions that are utilized in creating a physical object based on a digital model or data of the object. In some embodiments, the 3D production instructions 112 include a combination of dimensions, tolerances, and / or other part specifications that are sufficient to indicate the attributes of the product so that the product can be physically generated by the 3D production device 114. But you can. In another example, the 3D production instructions 112 may include a digital model as may be provided by a computer aided design (CAD) file or a file for a computer modeling program. In another embodiment, the 3D production instructions 112 may include files in, for example, STL, PLY, or VRML format. In another embodiment, the 3D production instructions 112 may also include a file representing a cross section of a digital model that is referenced in building a physical model layer by layer at a time. In another example, the 3D production instructions 112 may also include executable code that provides specific sequential instructions for controlling the 3D production device 114 that generates the physical object.

  In an embodiment, the computer system 106 of the service provider 108 can provide an electronic market. The electronic market can be a virtual market for buyers and sellers implemented over a network. The electronic marketplace can provide an interface for merchants that allows multiple merchants to offer the goods listed for consumption in the virtual marketplace. The electronic marketplace can also provide an interface for the purchaser that allows the purchaser to select and order from the listed items. In embodiments, purchasers and merchants can include users 102, third parties 130, and service providers 108. For example, the user 102 can place an order 104 for goods listed by the service provider 108 or third party 130 in the electronic market. In an embodiment, the third party 130 may provide data related to the 3D production instructions 112 that may be utilized to generate the marked item 110 via the 3D production device 114. For example, the third party 130 may provide marker information 126, product information 126, and / or production instructions 112.

  The merchandise information (as designated by 118, 128, and / or 138 in FIG. 1) may include details about the designated merchandise, such as structure, shape, material, other characteristics, or combinations thereof. The marker information (as specified by 116, 126, and / or 136 in FIG. 1) includes details regarding the marker 124 such as type, size, material, meaning, mounting method by the manufacturing device, or combinations thereof. Can do. In some embodiments, the marker information 116 may include information regarding the implementation of the marker 124 without making substantial changes to the characteristics specified by the product information 118. As will be further understood, the product information or marker information specified by a reference number in FIG. 1 need not necessarily be exactly the same as the product information or marker information specified by another reference number in FIG. For example, as shown in the illustrative example above with reference to PALEO-BEARD-MAN (an old Paleolithic man with cocoons), instructions for how the production device 114 implements the marker 124 are marked While information 116 includes and marker information 136 includes an interpretation of marker 124, marker information 126 may include the intended meaning of marker 124.

  In some embodiments, marker information 116 and merchandise information 118 can be combined in 3D production instructions 112. As an illustrative example, 3D production instructions 112 provide a single virtual model that represents a mark 124 embedded in a marked product 110 or sequential instructions for marking a marked product 110 with a marker 124. May be executable code. In some embodiments, marker information 116 and merchandise information 118 may be separate elements of 3D production instructions 112. As an illustrative example, the 3D production instruction 112 determines that the 3D production device 114 determines how to adjust the configuration of the marked product 110 to include product information 118 and mark 124 regarding the configuration of the marked product 110. Separate marker information 116 may be included that indicates the type of marker 124 that is designated as possible. Similarly, information provided by the third party 130 may include combined or separate product information 128 and marker information 126, and may include only one of them. Similarly, the detection information 122 may include combined or separate individual product information 138 and marker information 136, and may include only one of them. For example, the scanning device 120 may perform an operation of detecting the marker 124 and / or acquiring the marker information 136 before or at the same time as the operation of acquiring the product information 138.

  In embodiments, detection information 122 (or information based on detection information 122) may be communicated to other components or entities to facilitate various functions. For example, the detection information 122 may be communicated to the production device 114 as a basis for generating and / or modifying the production instructions 112 used by the production device 114 to create the product 110. As a further illustrative example, detection information 122 is communicated to user 102, service provider 108, and / or third party 130 to facilitate functions such as providing or requesting additional information about marked item 110. May be.

  A single device may include both the 3D fabrication device 114 and the scanning device 120. However, the 3D authoring device 114 and the scanning device 120 may also be separate devices that may be operated by or associated with different entities. In some embodiments, the first 3D production device 114 may create a marked product 110 and the separate scanning device 120 creates a copy of the marked product 110 based on the marker 124. Or to limit, a second 3D production device 114 can be interfaced.

  The 3D authoring device 114 and / or the scanning device 120 may be operated by or in connection with the service provider 108, the user 102, and / or a third party 130. Appropriate intermediate operations may be implemented to transfer the marked item 110 from any entity that controls the 3D production device 114 and / or the scanning device 124 to the intended recipient. For example, a marked product 110 generated to fulfill an order 104 of the user 102 may be generated on a production device 114 controlled by the service provider 108 and tracked based on delivery information provided by the user. It may be delivered to the user 102 via a flight or any suitable delivery method including regular mail, airmail, truck, air drone, or deposit to a designated pick-up location. In some embodiments, the order 104 may be implemented by issuing a production instruction 112 that the user 102 may utilize a personal production device 114 to generate the marked item 110.

  The marker 124 can be any suitable salient feature that can be detected by the scanning device 120. For example, according to different embodiments, the salient features are the characteristics of the material that the entire marked item 110 comprises, the presence of individual materials in the marked item 110, or between the materials contained in the marked item 110. The pattern can be detected based on the difference. In some embodiments, a single characteristic material can provide any of these salient features. As an illustrative example, the fabrication device 114 is either mixed with ultraviolet pigment (ie, “ultraviolet plastic”) or utilized without pigment (ie, “ordinary plastic”). You may manufacture goods from the plastic which may be. Depending on how the production device 114 utilizes UV plastic, the marker 124 may be formed from the UV plastic, the product 110 may be entirely made of UV plastic, or simply contain structural UV plastic dots in the normal plastic, or within the normal plastic. Or an identifiable pattern of UV plastic dots may be dispersed. In some embodiments, the marker 124 may include data or metadata encoded in a pattern such as a barcode, QR code, character string, numeric string, symbol, or some combination thereof.

  There are many options for providing the marker 124. In various embodiments, the marker 124 may include one or more materials that have certain salient characteristics. As a non-limiting example, the marker 124 may be a given segment, a specific color, a specific odor, a specific density, a specific biological quality, a specific, of the electromagnetic spectrum (such as radio waves, ultraviolet light, infrared light, or visible light). May include materials having a specific response to certain magnetic properties, specific electrical conductivity, specific physical properties, specific chemical properties, or specific atomic properties. The marker 124 may include a pattern formed from materials having different characteristics. The marker 124 may be an RFID tag manufactured by the manufacturing apparatus 114 as a part of the product 110 in response to the 3D manufacturing command 112. The marker 124 may be a void pattern manufactured as a part of the product 110. The marker 124 may also include any combination, arrangement, and / or variation of any of the above-described embodiments. In some embodiments, marker information, such as marker information 126 provided by third party 130, may include a particular type and / or material selection of markers 124 to be utilized.

  The scanning device 120 may include any suitable component for detecting the marker 124. As a non-limiting example, the scanning device 120 can be an ultrasonic, X-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, wireless, optical, laser, magnetic resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance, radar, sonar, depth, density, heat, chemistry, hologram, radiation. One or more instruments (eg, transmitters, receivers, transducers, sensors) for generating and / or receiving signals and / or transmitted wavelengths, such as for measurement, molecular or imaging using photoacoustic techniques , Detector, or emitter).

  Any significance or meaning may be associated with a particular marker 124. Non-limiting examples of meanings that can be associated with a particular marker 124 include permissions, identification information, authentication information, contact information, source information, and the date, location, or serial associated with the production of the product 110. Includes production information such as numbers. In some embodiments, the marker 124 may be associated with multiple meanings. As a non-limiting example, the marker 124 may include a QR code that indicates both the owner of the marked item 110 and the date of production. In some embodiments, the marker 124 can be associated with a permission for the marked item 110, such as a permission to scan, produce, print, or duplicate the item 110. Grants include operations that include 0 (ie, not allowed), 1 (ie, 1 use), a limited number (eg, 2 or 5 times), or an unlimited number (eg, unlimited use) May indicate the number of times that is allowed. In some embodiments, the permissions may include information regarding obtaining further permissions for the object 110. Marker 124 may provide commands such as providing a link to an interface for payment, authentication, sign-in, and the like. In some embodiments, the marker 124 may include even encoded production instructions 112 to create a link that can access the marked item 110 and / or instructions 112.

  The marker 124 can be associated with a set of meanings having any simplicity or complexity. At one end of the spectrum, the marker 124 may be part of a system that has one type of marker with one meaning. For example, the marker 124 may be that the item is made from ultraviolet plastic, and the corresponding meaning may indicate that copying of the marked item 110 having such a marker 124 is not permitted. Slightly complex systems may include a finite number of marker types and meanings. For example, the markers 124 may be made from UV plastic that reflects a specific range of UV light, with each different range indicating a different third party supplier of the product. At the other end of the spectrum, the marker 124 may be part of a system that does not have a certain number of types or meanings. For example, the marker 124 may include a pattern configured in the product 110 that is marked using any number of differentiation mechanisms (eg, an infrared detectable pattern having an ultraviolet detectable pattern), each pattern including: A unique identifier and / or a set of unique instructions may be indicated.

System Architecture FIG. 2 shows an exemplary system or architecture 200 in which techniques for providing and / or identifying marked items 110 may be implemented. In architecture 200, one or more users 102 access a browser application 206 (eg, a web browser) or a user interface (UI) accessible through the browser application 206 via one or more networks 212. In addition, user computing devices 204 (1) to (N) (hereinafter collectively referred to as user devices 204) may be used. The “browser application” 206 can be any browser control or native application that can access and display network pages or other information. In some aspects, the browser application 206 may be hosted, managed, and / or provided by a computing resource service or service provider, such as by utilizing one or more service provider computers 216. In some embodiments, one or more service provider computers 216 may include a client entity, a low latency data storage device, a durable data storage device, a data access, management, virtualization, software solution based on a hosted computing system, Computing resources may be provided, such as but not limited to electronic content performance management. One or more service provider computers 216 may also be operable to provide web or network hosting, computer application development, and / or implementation platforms, combinations of the above, etc. to one or more users 102. May be.

  In an exemplary configuration, user device 204 may include at least one memory 208 and one or more processing devices or processor (s) 210. The processor (s) 210 may be implemented as appropriate in hardware, computer-executable instructions, firmware, or a combination thereof. The computer-executable instructions or firmware implementation of the processor (s) 210 include computer-executable or machine-executable instructions for performing the various functions described, written in any suitable programming language. But you can. User device 204 may also include a geolocation device (eg, a Global Positioning System (GPS) device, etc.) for providing and / or recording geographic location information associated with user device 204.

  The memory 208 may store program instructions that can be loaded and executed on the processor (s) 210 and data generated during the execution of these programs. The memory 208 may be volatile (such as random access memory (RAM)) and / or non-volatile (such as read only memory (ROM) or flash memory) depending on the configuration and type of the user device 204. User device 204 may also include additional removable storage devices and / or non-removable storage devices, including but not limited to magnetic storage devices, optical disks, and / or tape storage devices. Disk drives and their associated computer readable media may provide non-volatile storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for computing devices. In some implementations, the memory 208 may include multiple different types of memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or ROM.

  Referring in more detail to the components of the memory 208, the memory 208 is for implementing features disclosed herein via a browser application 206 or a dedicated application (eg, a smartphone application, a tablet application, etc.). An operating system and one or more application programs or services may be included. Browser application 206 may be configured to receive, store, and / or display websites, links to electronic markets, or other interfaces for interacting with one or more service provider computers 216. . In addition, the memory 208 may store access authentication and / or other user information such as, but not limited to, a user ID, password, and / or other user information. In some embodiments, the user information may include information for authentication of the account, such as but not limited to device ID, cookie, IP address, location, etc. Further, the user information may include a response to a security question provided by the user 102 or a geographical location obtained by the user device 204.

  In some embodiments, the network 212 may include any one or combination of many different types of networks, such as cable networks, the Internet, wireless networks, cellular networks, and other private and / or public networks. . Although the example shown represents access to the browser application 206 via the network 212 of the user 102, for the techniques described, the user 102 may use a landline phone, via a kiosk, or any other method. As well as the example of interacting with one or more service provider computers 216 via one or more user devices 204. It is also noted that the described techniques may apply to other client / server deployments (eg, set-top boxes, etc.) and non-client / server deployments (eg, locally stored applications, etc.). I want.

  As briefly described above, the browser application 206 may be used by one or more service provider computers 216 (eg, the computer system 106 of the service provider 108) for the user 102 to access content such as web pages or network pages. ) May be allowed to interact. One or more service provider computers 216, possibly located in a cluster of servers or as a server farm, may host browser applications 206 and / or cloud-based software services. Other server architectures may also be utilized to host browser applications 206 and / or cloud-based software services. Browser application 206 handles requests from many users 102 and accordingly various users that can be performed on user device 204 such as, but not limited to, a web page, website, network site, or network page. It may be possible to act as an interface. The browser application 206 can interact with any type of website or network site that supports user interaction, including social networking sites, electronic retail stores, information sites, blog sites, search engine sites, news and entertainment sites, and the like. . Similarly, the described techniques can be implemented outside of the browser application 206, such as other applications running on the user device 204.

  The one or more service provider computers 216 are mobile phones, smart phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), notebook computers, desktop computers, server computers, electronic book (ebook) readers, thin client devices, tablet PCs, etc. However, it may be any type of computing device that is not limited thereto. In addition, it should be noted that in some embodiments, one or more service provider computers 216 may be executed by one or more virtual machines implemented in a hosted computing environment. A hosted computing environment may include one or more rapidly provisioned and released computing resources, such computing resources may include computing, networking, and / or storage devices. A hosted computing environment may also be referred to as a cloud computing environment. In some examples, one or more service provider computers 216 may communicate with user equipment 204 via network 212 or via other network connections. The one or more service provider computers 216 may include one or more servers, possibly arranged in a cluster or as separate servers that are not related to each other. One or more service provider computers 216 may communicate with one or more third-party computers 214 (eg, computer system 132 of third-party 130) via network 212. One or more service provider computers 216 that host browser application 206 may obtain data and provide it to third party computer 214 over network 212 according to embodiments described herein.

  In an exemplary configuration, one or more service provider computers 216 may include at least one memory 218 and one or more processing units or processor (s) 221. The processor (s) 221 may be implemented as appropriate in hardware, computer-executable instructions, firmware, or a combination thereof. Computer-executable instructions or firmware implementations of processor (s) 221 include computer-executable or machine-executable instructions written in any suitable programming language to perform the various functions described. But you can. Memory 218 may store program instructions that can be loaded and executed on processor (s) 221 and data generated during the execution of these programs. Memory 218 may be volatile (such as RAM) and / or non-volatile (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.), depending on the configuration and type of one or more service provider computers 216. The one or more service provider computers 216 or servers may also include additional storage devices 222 that may include removable storage devices and / or non-removable storage devices. Additional storage devices 222 may include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices, optical disks, and / or tape storage devices. The disk drives and their associated computer readable media may provide non-volatile storage with computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computing device. In some implementations, the memory 218 may include multiple different types of memory, such as SRAM, DRAM, or ROM.

  Both removable and non-removable memory 218 and additional storage device 222 are all examples of non-transitory computer readable storage media. For example, a computer-readable storage medium is volatile or non-volatile, removable, or non-removable implemented in any method or technique for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Possible media may be included. Memory 218 and additional storage device 222 are all examples of computer storage media. Additional types of computer storage media that may be present in one or more service provider computers 216 include PRAM, SRAM, DRAM, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD or other optical storage device, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage device or other magnetic storage device, or one or more service provider computers 216 that can be utilized to store the desired information and May include, but is not limited to, any other medium that can be accessed by. Combinations of any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

  The one or more service provider computers 216 may also communicate with one or more service provider computers 216 with databases, other computing devices or servers, user terminals and / or other devices stored on the network 212. Communication connection (s) 223 may be included that allow to do so. The one or more service provider computers 216 may also include I / O device (s) 224 such as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, display, speaker, printer, and the like.

  Referring to the contents of memory 218 in more detail, memory 218 may be an operating system 220, one or more data stores 240 and / or one or more application programs, services, or features disclosed herein. Other software modules normally executed by a processor (eg, processor 210 and / or 221) for implementation may be included.

  Although FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary module, the functions and embodiments described herein can utilize a subset of the features provided by the module and / or can provide additional functions. In addition, although an exemplary module is briefly shown in connection with FIG. 2, further specific details regarding the exemplary module are set forth below in the description of the figures that follow.

  As an exemplary module of memory 218, product module 302 may be provided for receiving and / or processing product orders 104. The product module 302 also determines whether the ordered product is generated as a marked product 110. The merchandise module 402 may further be provided for obtaining and / or providing information related to merchandise generated as the marked merchandise 110. A marker module 402 may be provided for obtaining and / or providing information related to the mark 124 included in the marked item 110. The production module 502 may be based, for example, for providing and / or generating instructions to the 3D production device 114 of the 3D production instructions 112, which may be based at least in part on information accessed by the product module 302 and / or the marker module 402. Can be provided.

  As can be appreciated, the 3D production instructions 112 and / or related information (product information 116, 126, and / or information) may be used to make the 3D production instructions 112 and / or associated information available when the order 104 is placed. (Or 136 and / or marker information 118, 128, and / or 138) may be obtained and stored prior to receipt of the order 104 from the user 102. Further, the merchandise module 302, the marker module 402, and / or the production module 502 may also include any user device 204, third party computer 214, memory 218, database 240, 3D production device 114, and / or scanning device 120. Any relevant merchandise information, marker information, 3D production instructions, and / or detection information (eg, 112, 116, 118, 122, 126, 128, 136, and / or 138) from the appropriate direct or intermediate source May be accessed.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 300 for the generation of marked items 110, according to some embodiments. Part or all of the process 300 (or any other process described herein, or variations and / or combinations thereof) is one composed of executable instructions, such as a module described herein. Alternatively, code that may be executed under the control of multiple computer systems and that executes as a whole on one or more processors (eg, executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or more applications) May be implemented by hardware or a combination thereof. The code may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium, for example in the form of a computer program containing a plurality of instructions that can be executed by one or more processors. The computer readable storage medium may be non-transitory. Further, unless indicated otherwise, the actions shown in the process may not necessarily be in the order shown and / or some of the actions may be omitted in embodiments.

  Process 300 includes receiving a request to produce a product at 302 with a 3D production device. For example, the user 102 may request the service provider computer 106 to place an order 104 and / or send a production order 112 to the production device 114 to create the product 110. At 302, product information can be accessed. At 306, marker information can be accessed. For example, as described above, merchandise information and / or marker information may be accessed from a memory, a third party, or a scanning device. At 308, a 3D production instruction can be generated. For example, the 3D production command may be based on the accessed marker information and product information as described above. At 310, production of a product using a marker can be commanded. For example, a merchandise may include any of the markers described hereinabove to provide any information, permissions, or commands provided herein.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 400 for identification of marked items 110, according to some embodiments. Process 400 includes, at 402, receiving a request to scan for goods. For example, the scanning device 120 may be used so that the user 102 can obtain available product information for generating a 3D production command for producing a second product using the 3D production device based on the first product. It may be desired to scan the first marked item 110 via. At 402, a marker can be detected. For example, as described above, the scanning device may utilize any of the techniques described herein for detecting a marker and / or obtaining marker information about the marker. At 406, the marker can be interpreted. For example, the meaning of the marker may be determined by decoding the detected marker or comparing the detected marker with a marker profile stored in a database. At 408, information can be provided based on the marker. For example, as described above, any of the information, permissions, or commands described herein above may be provided based on the detected marker.

  FIG. 5 illustrates aspects of an example environment 500 for implementing aspects in accordance with various embodiments. As will be appreciated, a web-based environment is utilized for purposes of illustration, but different environments may be utilized as appropriate to implement various embodiments. The environment includes an electronic client device 502 that can include any suitable device that is operable to send and receive requests, messages, or information over a suitable network 504 and communicate information back to the user of the device. . Examples of such client devices include personal computers, mobile phones, hand-held message communication devices, notebook computers, set top boxes, personal digital assistants, electronic book readers, and the like. The network can include any suitable network including an intranet, the Internet, a cellular network, a local area network, or any other such network or combination thereof. The components utilized for such a system may depend at least in part on the type of network and / or environment selected. Protocols and components for communication over such networks are well known and will not be described in detail herein. Communication over a network can be enabled by wired or wireless connections and combinations thereof. In this example, the network includes the Internet because the environment includes a web server 506 to receive requests and deliver content in response, but other networks as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Alternative devices that achieve similar objectives for may be used.

  An exemplary environment includes at least one application server 508 and a data store 510. Several application servers, layers, or other elements, processes or configurations that may be linked or configured to be able to interact to perform tasks such as retrieving data from the appropriate data store It should be understood that elements can exist. As used herein, the term “data store” refers to any combination of data servers, databases, data storage devices and data storage media in any standard, distributed or clustered environment and Refers to any device or combination of devices that may store, access, and retrieve data, which may include numbers. An application server integrates with the data store as needed to execute one or more aspects of the application for the client device, and is optional for handling the majority of data access and business logic for the application Suitable hardware and software. The application server provides an access control service that works with the data store, in the form of a hypertext markup language (“HTML”), an extended markup language (“XML”), or other suitable structured language in this embodiment. Content such as text, graphics, audio and / or video transferred to the user may be generated that may be delivered to the user by the web server. The processing and response of all requests and the distribution of content between the client device 502 and the application server 508 can be handled by the web server. As described elsewhere in this specification, web and application servers are required because the structured code described herein can be executed on any suitable device or host machine. It should be understood that this is merely an exemplary component.

  Data store 510 may include a number of separate data tables, databases or other data storage mechanisms and media for storing data relating to a particular aspect. For example, the illustrated data store includes a mechanism for storing production data 512 and user information 516 that can be utilized to deliver content to the producer. The data store is also shown to include a mechanism for storing log data 514 that can be utilized for reporting, analysis or other such purposes. Many may need to access rights information that is stored in the data store for page image information, etc., and can be stored in any of the above mechanisms as appropriate, or in additional mechanisms in the data store 510 It should be understood that other aspects may exist. Data store 510 receives instructions from application server 508 and is operable through associated logic to obtain, update, or process data accordingly. In some embodiments, a user may submit a search request for a particular type of product. In this case, the data store may access the user information to verify the identity of the user, may confirm the identity of the user, and may access the catalog details information to obtain information about that type of product. it can. The information can then be returned to the user, such as in a results list on a web page that the user can view on the client device 502 via a browser. Information on the particular product of interest can be viewed on a dedicated page or window of the browser.

  Each server typically includes an operating system that issues executable program instructions for general management and operation of the server, and typically stores instructions that cause the server to perform its intended functions when executed by the server's processor. Computer readable storage media (eg, hard disk, random access memory, read only memory, etc.) are included. In particular, in light of the disclosure herein, suitable implementations for server operating systems and general functionality are known or commercially available and are readily implemented by those skilled in the art.

  The environment in an embodiment is a distributed computing environment that utilizes several computer systems and components that are interconnected via communication links that utilize one or more computer networks or direct connections. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such a system may work equally well in a system having more or fewer components than shown in FIG. Thus, the description of the system 500 in FIG. 5 should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, but should be considered exemplary in nature.

  Various embodiments in a wide variety of operating environments that can optionally include one or more user computers, computing devices or processing devices that can be utilized to operate any number of applications. Further implementation is possible. A user or client device can run any number of general purpose personal computers, such as desktop or laptop computers running standard operating systems, and mobile software, and can support several networking and messaging protocols Wireless and handheld devices can be included. Such a system may also include a number of workstations running any of various distribution operating systems and other known applications for purposes such as development and database management. These devices can also include other electronic devices such as dummy terminals, thin clients, gaming systems and other devices that can communicate over a network.

  Most embodiments include: Communication Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (“TCP / IP”), Open System Interconnection (“OSI”), File Transfer Protocol (“FTP”), Universal Plug and Play (“UpnP”), Network At least one well known to those skilled in the art to support communication utilizing any of a variety of distribution protocols such as file system (“NFS”), common internet file system (“CIFS”) and AppleTalk. Use the network. The network can be, for example, a local area network, a wide area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network, and any combination thereof.

  In an embodiment utilizing a web server, the web server is a hypertext transfer protocol (“HTTP”) server, an FTP server, a common gateway interface (“CGI”) server, a data server, a Java server, and a business application server. Can operate in any of a variety of servers or middle-tier applications. The server (s) can also be written in any programming language, such as Java, C, C # or C ++, or any scripting language such as Pearl, Python or TCL, and combinations thereof. It may be possible to execute a program or script in response to a request from a user device, such as by execution of one or more web applications that may be implemented as one or more scripts or programs . The server (s) also includes database servers including but not limited to those commercially available from Oracle®, Microsoft®, Sybase®, and IBM®. May be included.

  The environment can include various data stores and other memories and storage media as described above. These may be at various locations, such as on a storage medium that is local to (and / or within) one or more computers, or remote to any or all computers over a network. Can do. In a particular series of embodiments, the information may reside in a storage area network (“SAN”) that is well known to those skilled in the art. Similarly, any files necessary for the execution of functions belonging to a computer, server or other network device may be stored locally and / or remotely as appropriate. Where the system includes computerized devices, each such device may be electrically connected via a bus, eg, at least one central processing unit (“CPU”), at least one input device. Hardware elements including (eg, a mouse, keyboard, controller, touch screen or keypad) and at least one output device (eg, display device, printer or speaker) may be included. Such systems also include disk drives, optical storage devices, and random access memory (“RAM”) or read-only memory (“ROM”), and solid state storage devices such as removable media devices, memory cards, flash cards, etc. One or more storage devices, such as

  Such devices can also include a computer readable storage media reader, a communication device (eg, a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.) and a working memory, as described above. Computer-readable storage media reader includes remote, local, fixed and / or removable storage devices, and storage for storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information temporarily and / or more permanently The computer-readable storage medium representing the medium can be connected to or configured to receive it. The system and various devices also typically have a number of software applications, modules, services or other elements located in at least one working memory device, including an operating system and application programs such as web browsers such as client applications. Including. It should be understood that alternative embodiments may have numerous variations from the above-described embodiments. For example, customized hardware may also be utilized and / or certain elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software such as applets), or both. In addition, connections to other computing devices such as network input / output devices may be used.

  Storage media and computer readable media for containing code, or portions of code, include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read only memory ("CD-ROM"), digital multipurpose disc (DVD) or other optical storage device, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage device or other magnetic storage device or utilized to store desired information By any method or technique for storing and / or transmitting information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data, including any other medium that can be accessed by the system device Implemented, volatile and non-volatile Nonvolatile, removable, and such non-removable media, but includes a storage media and communication media are not limited thereto, may include any suitable medium that is or use are known in the prior art. Other methods for implementing the various embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the disclosure and teachings presented herein.

  The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.

  Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed technology is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, specific exemplary embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail above. However, it is not intended to limit the present disclosure to a particular format, but on the contrary, all modifications and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims. It should be understood that the intention is to encompass constructions and equivalents. The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar instructions in the context of disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) is specifically pointed out herein. And should be construed to include both the singular and the plural unless clearly contradicted by context. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising”, “having”, “including” and “containing” are open-ended terms (ie, “includes”). Meaning “but not limited to”). The term “connected” should be construed to be included, attached, or coupled, partially or wholly, even if there is anything intervening. . Detailed description of a range of values within this specification is intended only to serve a shorthand notation specifically referring to each distinct value falling within that range, unless otherwise indicated herein. And each distinct value is incorporated herein as if it were individually listed herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary words (eg, “such as”, etc.) given herein are intended only to better illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, unless specifically stated in the claims, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any element not recited in the claims as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

  In order to practice the present disclosure, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors. Variations of those preferred embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. The inventor expects those skilled in the art to use such variations as appropriate and intends that the present disclosure may be practiced other than as described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

  All documents, including publications, patent applications and patents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth individually and specifically for reference. Incorporated in the description.

Examples of embodiments of the present disclosure can be described in view of the following provisions.
1. Receiving scanned information about a first three-dimensional product by a computer system, wherein the first three-dimensional product is received by a first three-dimensional production device based at least in part on a set of three-dimensional production instructions. Receiving the scanned information about the first three-dimensional product, wherein the generated and scanned information includes marker information about the marker of the first three-dimensional product;
Determining whether there is permission to generate a copy of the first three-dimensional product based on the marker information;
Providing instructions for production of the copy of the first three-dimensional product using a second three-dimensional production device if the permission exists;
Providing an instruction to prevent production of the copy of the first three-dimensional product using the second three-dimensional production device if the permission does not exist;
Including methods.

2. The instructions are
The second three-dimensional production device includes information that prevents obtaining product information from the scanning device of the second three-dimensional production device, and prevents production,
The product information is based at least in part on the first 3D product to generate a 3D production command for producing a second 3D product using the second 3D production device. Is available,
The method according to clause 1.

3. The instructions are
The second three-dimensional production apparatus includes information that prevents generation of the three-dimensional production instruction from product information acquired from a scanning device of the three-dimensional production apparatus, and prevents production,
A three-dimensional production instruction for producing a second three-dimensional product using the second three-dimensional production device, wherein the second three-dimensional production device is based at least in part on the first three-dimensional product. Is available to generate
The method according to clause 1.

4). The method of clause 1, wherein the marker comprises a marker material that is different from other materials utilized to produce the first three-dimensional product.

5. The method of clause 1, wherein the first three-dimensional product comprises a single material and the marker is a property of the single material.

6). The marker is
A material with a specific response to a segment of the electromagnetic spectrum,
A material with a specific color,
A material with a specific odor,
Materials with specific magnetic properties,
A material with a specific density, or
Certain biological materials,
The method of clause 1, comprising at least one of:

7). The marker is
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag produced as part of the first three-dimensional product by the first three-dimensional production device in response to the set of three-dimensional production instructions;
A pattern of voids produced as part of the first three-dimensional product by the first three-dimensional production device in response to the set of three-dimensional production instructions, or a pattern of materials having different characteristics;
The method of clause 1, comprising at least one of:

8). Receiving the scanned information about the first three-dimensional product;
Ultrasound,
X-ray wave,
Radio waves,
UV wave or
Infrared wave,
The method of clause 1, comprising receiving information from a scanning device that scans the first three-dimensional product using at least one of:

9. When executed by one or more processors of a computer system,
Receiving detection information about a first product from a scan of the first product, wherein the first product is generated by a three-dimensional production process based at least in part on a set of three-dimensional production instructions; Receiving the detection information about the first product from a scan of the first product, wherein the detection information includes marker information about a marker printed as part of the first product;
Determining whether permission to produce a second product using a three-dimensional production device is granted based at least in part on the marker;
A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for causing the computer system to execute an operation including:

10. 10. The computer readable storage medium of clause 9, wherein the permission to produce the second product using the three-dimensional production device is not granted based at least in part on the marker information.

11. The instructions are
Receiving a three-dimensional production instruction from the provider of the first product;
Providing the 3D production command to the 3D production device for producing the first product based at least in part on the 3D production command rather than the scanning of the first product;
The computer-readable storage medium according to clause 10, further causing the computer system to perform an operation including:

12 Clause 9 wherein the permission to produce the second item using the three-dimensional production device is granted to produce the first item a specific number of times identified by the permission. Computer readable storage medium.

13. The computer-readable storage medium according to clause 9, wherein the three-dimensional production apparatus is different from the second three-dimensional production apparatus corresponding to the three-dimensional production process that generated the first commodity.

14 If the permission is not granted, the instructions further include causing the computer system to perform an action comprising allowing a user to request a right to copy the first item using the three-dimensional production device. The computer-readable storage medium according to clause 9, which is executed.

15. A scanning device configured to scan a first product to obtain product information and marker information, wherein the first product is based on a first set based on a set of three-dimensional production instructions. A second three-dimensional production for producing a second product using a second three-dimensional production device based on at least part of the first product, wherein the product information is generated by a three-dimensional production device. A scanning device that can be used to generate a set of instructions, wherein the marker information is obtained from a marker printed as part of the first commodity;
One or more processors;
A memory containing instructions executable by the one or more processors, wherein when executed by the one or more processors, at least in the system,
Instructing the scanning device to scan the first product;
Identifying the marker of the first product;
From the marker information extracted from the marker of the first commodity, to determine a plurality of commands related to the second set of three-dimensional production instructions,
Providing the plurality of commands to the second three-dimensional manufacturing apparatus;
The memory;
A system comprising:

16. 16. The system of clause 15, wherein the system is further allowed to at least identify whether permission to copy the first item is granted based at least in part on the marker information.

17. 17. The system of clause 16, wherein if the permission is granted, at least one of the plurality of commands includes an instruction to cause the second 3D production device to print the second product.

18. 16. The system of clause 15, wherein comparing the marker information with a collection of permissions associated with a collection of markers stored in a storage device identifies at least one of the permissions or the plurality of commands.

19. Information at least one of the plurality of commands is based at least in part on the marker information;
A supplier associated with the first product,
A third party associated with the first product;
Production equipment, or
A user of the system,
16. The system of clause 15, comprising instructions for transmitting to at least one of the following.

20. At least one of the plurality of commands is
Providing a date on which the first product was produced or scanned;
Providing a location where the first product was produced or scanned;
Providing a link for requesting permission to duplicate the first product via a three-dimensional production device; or
Providing information about a provider of the first product;
16. The system of clause 15, comprising instructions for at least one of the following.

21. Receiving a request for producing a three-dimensional product using a three-dimensional production device by a computer system;
Access to product information relating to the production of the three-dimensional product using the three-dimensional production device;
Access to marker information relating to a marker indicating permission associated with the three-dimensional product designated to be included in the produced three-dimensional product;
Generating a three-dimensional production instruction based at least in part on the product information and the marker information;
Based on the three-dimensional production instruction, an instruction for causing the three-dimensional production apparatus to produce the three-dimensional product using the marker included;
Including methods.

22. 22. The method of clause 21, wherein the permission indicates that copying of the three-dimensional product is not permitted by a three-dimensional production device.

23. 22. The method of clause 21, wherein the marker comprises a marker material that is different from other materials utilized to produce the three-dimensional product.

24. 22. The method of clause 21, wherein the three-dimensional product comprises a single material and the marker is a property of the single material.

25. The marker is
A material with a specific response to the electromagnetic spectrum segment, or
A material with a specific odor,
The method of clause 21, comprising at least one of:

26. The marker is
A material with a specific color,
A material with a specific density, or
Certain biological materials,
The method of clause 21, comprising at least one of:

27. The marker is
Materials with specific magnetic properties,
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag produced by the 3D production device as part of the 3D product in response to the 3D production instruction;
A void pattern produced by the 3D production apparatus as a part of the 3D product in response to the 3D production instruction, or
Patterns formed from materials with different properties,
The method of clause 21, comprising at least one of:

28. 22. The method of clause 21, wherein the marker is at least one of being located below the surface of the three-dimensional product or not visible to the human eye.

29. At least when executed by one or more processors of the computer system,
The computer system receives a request for producing a three-dimensional product using a three-dimensional production apparatus,
For the three-dimensional production apparatus, providing a three-dimensional production instruction for creating the three-dimensional product using a marker included therein, the marker being detectable by the apparatus, Providing permission information for permission to generate a copy of the three-dimensional product, providing a three-dimensional production instruction for creating the three-dimensional product;
A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions.

30. 30. The computer readable storage medium of clause 29, wherein the permission to generate the copy of the three-dimensional merchandise includes instructions for enabling scanning of the merchandise.

31. 30. The computer readable storage medium of clause 29, wherein the marker comprises a material disposed in a pattern that conveys metadata about the three-dimensional product.

32. 30. The computer readable storage medium of clause 29, wherein the instructions further cause the computer system to transmit marker information about the marker to a network accessible location for subsequent interpretation of the marker.

33. 30. The computer readable storage medium of clause 29, wherein the marker further conveys secondary information relating to the three-dimensional product that is not related to permission to generate the copy of the three-dimensional product.

34. The secondary information is
Date and time when the three-dimensional product was generated,
A designer associated with the 3D product,
A seller associated with the three-dimensional product,
The authenticity of the three-dimensional product,
Contact information or
Serial number of the three-dimensional product,
34. The computer readable storage medium of clause 33, comprising at least one.

35. A production device configured to produce a product based on a three-dimensional production instruction;
One or more processors;
A memory containing instructions executable by the one or more processors, wherein when executed by the one or more processors, at least in the system,
Providing the production device with the 3D production instructions for creating the product having a marker contained therein, wherein the marker is detectable by the device and generates a copy of the product Providing information on permission to provide the 3D production instructions to the production device;
The memory;
A system comprising:

36. Further comprising a scanning device configured to detect the marker;
The instructions further to the system;
Receiving detection information about the marker from the scanning device before,
Based on the detection information related to the marker, it is determined whether to generate a copy of the product through the three-dimensional production device or other three-dimensional production device,
36. System according to clause 35.

37. The scanning device is
Ultrasound,
X-ray wave,
UV wave or
Infrared wave,
37. The system of clause 36, configured to scan the item using at least one of:

38. The clause 36, wherein the marker type is determined based at least in part on information from a first party, and the meaning of the marker is determined based on information from a second party. system.

39. a first material applicator for providing a material associated with the marker and a second material applicator for providing a material unrelated to the marker in connection with the commodity; 36. The system of clause 35, comprising.

40. The system of clause 35, wherein the information communicated by the marker regarding the permission includes information for obtaining a permission to duplicate the merchandise utilizing a three-dimensional production printing process.

Claims (15)

Receiving scanned information about a first three-dimensional product by a computer system, wherein the first three-dimensional product is received by a first three-dimensional production device based at least in part on a set of three-dimensional production instructions. Receiving the scanned information about the first three-dimensional product, wherein the generated and scanned information includes marker information about the marker of the first three-dimensional product;
Determining whether there is permission to generate a copy of the first three-dimensional product based on the marker information;
Providing instructions for production of the copy of the first three-dimensional product using a second three-dimensional production device if the permission exists;
Providing an instruction to prevent production of the copy of the first three-dimensional product using the second three-dimensional production device if the permission does not exist;
Including methods. The instructions are
The second three-dimensional production device includes information that prevents obtaining product information from the scanning device of the second three-dimensional production device, and prevents production,
The product information is based at least in part on the first 3D product to generate a 3D production command for producing a second 3D product using the second 3D production device. Is available,
The method of claim 1. The instructions are
The second three-dimensional production apparatus includes information that prevents generation of the three-dimensional production instruction from product information acquired from a scanning device of the three-dimensional production apparatus, and prevents production,
A three-dimensional production instruction for producing a second three-dimensional product using the second three-dimensional production device, wherein the second three-dimensional production device is based at least in part on the first three-dimensional product. Is available to generate
The method of claim 1.   The method of claim 1, wherein the marker comprises a marker material that is different from other materials utilized to produce the first three-dimensional product.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first three-dimensional product comprises a single material and the marker is a property of the single material. The marker,
A material with a specific response to a segment of the electromagnetic spectrum,
A material with a specific color,
A material with a specific odor,
Materials with specific magnetic properties,
A material with a specific density, or
Certain biological materials,
The method of claim 1, comprising at least one of: The marker is
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag produced as part of the first three-dimensional product by the first three-dimensional production device in response to the set of three-dimensional production instructions;
A pattern of voids produced as part of the first three-dimensional product by the first three-dimensional production device in response to the set of three-dimensional production instructions, or a pattern of materials having different characteristics;
The method of claim 1, comprising at least one of: Receiving a request for producing a three-dimensional product using a three-dimensional production device by a computer system;
Access to product information relating to the production of the three-dimensional product using the three-dimensional production device;
Access to marker information relating to a marker indicating permission associated with the three-dimensional product designated to be included in the produced three-dimensional product;
Generating a three-dimensional production instruction based at least in part on the product information and the marker information;
Based on the three-dimensional production instruction, an instruction for causing the three-dimensional production apparatus to produce the three-dimensional product using the marker included;
Including methods.   9. The method of claim 8, wherein the permission indicates that copying of the three-dimensional product is not permitted by a three-dimensional production device.   9. The method of claim 8, wherein the marker comprises a marker material that is different from other materials utilized to produce the three-dimensional merchandise.   The method of claim 8, wherein the three-dimensional product comprises a single material and the marker is a property of the single material. The marker is
A material with a specific response to the electromagnetic spectrum segment, or
A material with a specific odor,
9. The method of claim 8, comprising at least one of: The marker is
A material with a specific color,
A material with a specific density, or
Certain biological materials,
9. The method of claim 8, comprising at least one of: The marker is
Materials with specific magnetic properties,
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag produced by the 3D production device as part of the 3D product in response to the 3D production instruction;
A void pattern produced by the 3D production apparatus as a part of the 3D product in response to the 3D production instruction, or
Patterns formed from materials with different properties,
9. The method of claim 8, comprising at least one of: The method according to claim 8, wherein the marker is at least one of being located below the surface of the three-dimensional product or invisible to the human eye.