3D data to 2d and isometric views for layout and creation of documents

Abstract

This application relates to methods for generating two-dimensional images from three-dimensional model data. A process according to the application may begin with providing a set of three-dimensional model data of a subject, and determining a set of boundaries between intersecting surfaces of the set of three-dimensional model data. A user or an algorithm may select a view of the three-dimensional model data to convert to a two-dimensional image. The process may further include determining an outline of the three-dimensional model corresponding to the selected view, and projecting the outline of the three-dimensional model and a visible portion of the set of boundaries onto a two-dimensional image plane.

Description

I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]A. Field of Invention[0002]Embodiments generally relate to creating technical drawings from 3D model data.[0003]B. Description of the Related Art[0004]A variety of methods are known in the art for generating 2D images from 3D models. For instance, it is known to generate a collage of 2D renderings that represent a 3D model. It is further known to identify vertices and edges of objects in images. The prior art also includes methods for flattening 3D surfaces to 2D quadrilateral line drawings in a 2D image plane. However, the art is deficient in a number of regards. For instance, the prior art does not teach or suggest fitting a 3D point cloud to a set of simple 2D surfaces, determining boundaries and vertices of the 2D surfaces and projecting them onto an image plane.[0005]Some embodiments of the present invention may provide one or more benefits or advantages over the prior art.II. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0006]Some embodiments may relate to a met...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent relates to a method for generating two-dimensional images from three-dimensional model data. The method includes steps such as providing a set of three-dimensional model data,determining boundaries between intersecting surfaces, selecting a view of the model data, determining an outline of the model data, identifying invisible boundaries, and projecting the outline and visible boundaries onto a two-dimensional image. The method can be used with different types of three-dimensional model data, such as point clouds or meshes. The technical effects of this patent include improving the efficiency and accuracy of generating two-dimensional images from three-dimensional model data.

Problems solved by technology

However, the art is deficient in a number of regards.

For instance, the prior art does not teach or suggest fitting a 3D point cloud to a set of simple 2D surfaces, determining boundaries and vertices of the 2D surfaces and projecting them onto an image plane.

Images