Patent ID: 8601405

Claim:
A method for processing data representing a three-dimensional structure to obtain cross-sectional data for use in forming the three-dimensional structure from a plurality of adhered layers, comprising: (a) receiving data representing a three-dimensional structure to be formed; (b) deriving preliminary cross-sectional data for each layer that will be used during the formation of the three-dimensional structure; (c) deriving common data for each layer n-1, representing intersections between structural material that will exist on layer n and on layer n-1 during formation of the three-dimensional structure; (d) deriving offset data from the common data that has a boundary that is offset inward relative to the common data; (e) deriving a pattern of etching holes from the offset data for each layer using a predefined grid pattern of etching hole patterns; and using the preliminary cross-sectional data and the pattern of etching holes to create a three-dimensional structure from the plurality of adhered multi-material layers.