Patent attributes
Methods and devices use a three-dimensional scanner and a three-dimensional printing device operatively connected to a processor. The three-dimensional scanner automatically determines a size and shape of an item to be packaged and the processor automatically identifies information corresponding to the item to be packaged. The processor automatically controls the three-dimensional printing device to form a container that is customized to match the size and shape of the item to be packaged (using a continuous additive process of forming successive layers of material in different shapes). When forming the container, the processor also automatically controls the three-dimensional printing device to form a label as part of the container. The label includes color variations to visually convey the information identified by the processor.