System and method for analyzing modeling accuracy while performing reverse engineering with 3D scan data

Abstract

An automated mechanism for measuring the amount of accuracy loss attributable to reverse engineering processes that use 3D scan data is discussed. The embodiments provide a mechanism that displays to a user the effect scan data editing and CAD remodeling operations have on scan data accuracy. Additionally, the user can choose the way the graphical display illustrates the error distribution on the model such as by color mapping and whisker mapping. The accuracy loss may be displayed to the user after finishing an editing / modeling command or during the previewing of the command thereby allowing a user to take appropriate action. Parameters may also be adjusted programmatically based on the amount of accuracy loss determined to be attributable to scan data editing or CAD remodeling operations.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This is a reissue application of U.S. Pat. No. 7,821,513, filed Apr. 9, 2007, issued Oct. 26, 2010, and which claims the benefit of a U.S. Provisional Application entitled, “System and Method for Analyzing Modeling Accuracy While Performing Reverse Engineering With 3D scan data”, Application No. 60 / 767,517, filed May 9, 2006.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The embodiments of the present invention relate generally to CAD (Computer Aided Design) and more particularly to the measurement of accuracy loss during reverse engineering processes.BACKGROUND[0003]Computer Aided Design (CAD) applications are used to produce computer models of two and three dimensional objects as part of the production process for the actual physical device being modeled. The models frequently include multiple CAD part bodies which must be individually designed. A CAD part body is a computational model used by a CAD application to hold a solid or a sheet (open body with zero thickness) geome...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a way for users to measure the accuracy of reverse engineering processes that use 3D scan data. It combines an automated and efficient way to measure accuracy loss with a mechanism for continual user notification. Users can start working with the scan data, set parameters for the reverse engineering process, and see the results of the calculations in real-time as they progress. The invention also allows users to set parameters for the display of errors on the final model, making it easier to identify and address any issues. The accuracy analyzer facility also displays the region where the accuracy loss exceeds the user-specified tolerance level, providing immediate feedback on any un desirable editing or modeling parameters. Overall, the invention helps users to improve the accuracy and efficiency of reverse engineering processes.

Problems solved by technology

The error display graphically notifies the user of undesirable editing or modeling parameters.

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