3D model evaluation system and 3D model evaluation method

Abstract

A 3D model evaluation system and a 3D model evaluation method, the 3D model evaluation system comprising: a reading section that reads 3D model data created by a 3D CAD; a history confirmation section that confirms a creation history of the 3D model data created by the 3D CAD when the 3D model data is read by the reading section and is created by the 3D CAD; and an evaluation section that evaluates a degree of coincidence of the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed by the history confirmation section with a predetermined rule.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a 3D model evaluation system and a 3D model evaluation method. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, 3DCAD (Three-Dimensional Computer-Aided Design) has been used when designing devices or components such as image forming apparatuses. As for technologies related to product environmental assessment systems based on 3D models using this 3DCAD, for example, technologies disclosed in Patent Document 1 have been proposed. Product environmental assessment evaluates the quality of 3D model data in PDQ (Product Data Quality) to prevent problems from arising when replacing 3D model data.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an environmental assessment device for each product and each unit constituting the product, comprising: a mechanism for acquiring information on the unit structure of the product and the constituent components within the unit, as well as the material information and processing information of each component, from 3D CAD; a mechanism for retrieving environmental information from an environmental information database based on the material information / processing information and acquiring environmental information; and a mechanism for storing the statistical results of these information in a dedicated database for each environmental assessment object product / unit.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-107102 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a 3D model evaluation system that, compared with the method of obtaining and evaluating the unit structure, component information within the unit, material information and processing information of each component from 3DCAD, makes it easier to evaluate the ease of use when using 3D model data.

[0006] The invention described in Scheme 1 is a 3D model evaluation system, which has the following features:

[0007] The reading unit reads 3D model data created by 3DCAD.

[0008] The history verification unit verifies the creation history attached to the 3D model data read by the reading unit and the creation history of the 3D model data by the 3DCAD; and

[0009] The evaluation department evaluates the degree of consistency between the creation history of the 3D model data, as confirmed by the history verification department, and predetermined rules.

[0010] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 1, the invention described in Scheme 2 evaluates whether the two-dimensional basic layout drawing is at the top of the creation history as the creation history when the 3D model data is created by the 3DCAD.

[0011] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 2, the evaluation unit evaluates the proportion of the 3D model data referenced to the basic layout diagram.

[0012] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 1, the invention described in Scheme 4 evaluates whether to create a functional layout diagram corresponding to each of the multiple functions when the design object designed by the 3DCAD is divided into multiple functions.

[0013] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 4, the evaluation unit of Scheme 5 evaluates whether there is any unreferenced 3D model data in each functional layout diagram.

[0014] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 1, the evaluation unit evaluates each evaluation item by setting the evaluation result as a numerical value.

[0015] In the 3D model evaluation system of Scheme 6, the invention described in Scheme 7 evaluates the 3D model data based on at least one of the following judgment criteria: a judgment criterion for layout application, evaluating whether the 3D model data references the basic layout diagram; a judgment criterion for functional layout, evaluating whether functional layout diagrams corresponding to the multiple functions have been created when the design object designed by the 3DCAD is divided into multiple functions; a judgment criterion for reference plane application, evaluating whether the 3D model data applies a reference plane; a judgment criterion for not directly referencing entities, evaluating whether the 3D model data does not directly reference entities; and a judgment criterion for direct reference in feature creation, evaluating whether the 3D model data does not directly reference the edges or surfaces of the model shape when creating features.

[0016] In the 3D model evaluation system described in Scheme 7, the invention described in Scheme 8 uses charts to display the evaluation results of the judgment criteria for the layout application, the judgment criteria for each functional layout, the judgment criteria for the reference plane application, the judgment criteria for the non-directly referenced entities, and the judgment criteria for the creation feature direct reference.

[0017] The invention described in Scheme 9 is a 3D model evaluation method, which includes the following steps:

[0018] The reading step involves reading the 3D model data created by 3DCAD.

[0019] The history verification step verifies the creation history attached to the 3D model data read in the reading step and the creation history when the 3D model data is created by the 3DCAD; and

[0020] The evaluation step assesses the degree of consistency between the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed in the history verification step and the predetermined rules.

[0021] Invention Effects

[0022] According to the first aspect of the present invention, compared with the case of obtaining and evaluating the unit structure, constituent component information, material information and processing information of each component from 3DCAD, it is easier to evaluate the ease of use when using 3D model data.

[0023] According to the second aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the evaluation unit does not evaluate whether the two-dimensional basic layout drawing is at the top of the creation history as the creation history when creating 3D model data from 3DCAD, it is easier to read the basic design steps and correction parts.

[0024] According to the third aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the evaluation unit does not evaluate the proportion of the 3D model data reference basic layout diagram, the evaluation result can be expressed as a numerical value.

[0025] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the evaluation unit does not evaluate whether a functional layout diagram corresponding to each of the multiple functions has been created when the design object designed by 3DCAD is divided into multiple functions, it is easier to evaluate the degree of easy correction even when the design object is divided into multiple functions.

[0026] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the evaluation unit does not evaluate whether there is any unreferenced 3D model data in each functional layout diagram, the evaluation result can be expressed as a numerical value.

[0027] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the evaluation department does not set the evaluation results of each evaluation item as numerical values ​​for evaluation, it is easier to evaluate the degree of easy correction.

[0028] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the ease of correction when modifying 3D model data can be accurately evaluated using five evaluation criteria.

[0029] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the degree of ease of correction can be easily evaluated by observing the chart.

[0030] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case of obtaining and evaluating the unit structure of the product, the information of the constituent components within the unit, the material information of each component, and the processing information from 3DCAD, it is easier to evaluate the ease of use when using 3D model data. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0032] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the 3D model evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the server device of the 3D model evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a user terminal device of the 3D model evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the main parts of the 3D model evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the gearbox;

[0037] Figure 6 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the gears housed in the gearbox;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a plan view showing the main parts of the gearbox;

[0039] Figure 8 It is an explanatory diagram representing a 3D CAD sketch plane;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a structural diagram showing the basic layout of the gearbox;

[0041] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the operation history of 3DCAD;

[0042] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0043] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0044] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the operation history of 3DCAD;

[0045] Figure 14 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0046] Figure 15 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0047] Figure 16 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0048] Figure 17 It is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the gearbox design process using 3DCAD;

[0049] Figure 18 This is an explanatory diagram showing the operation history of 3DCAD;

[0050] Figure 19 This is an explanatory diagram showing the design process using 3DCAD in Comparative Example 1;

[0051] Figure 20 This is an explanatory diagram showing the design process using 3DCAD in Comparative Example 3;

[0052] Figure 21 This is an explanatory diagram showing the design process using 3DCAD in Comparative Example 4;

[0053] Figure 22 This is an explanatory diagram showing the design process using 3DCAD in Comparative Example 5;

[0054] Figure 23 This is a chart representing the evaluation results using a 3D model evaluation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 24 This is a chart representing the evaluation results of the 3D model evaluation system involved in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0056] Symbol Explanation

[0057] 1-3D model evaluation system, 2-user terminal device, 3-network, 4-server device, 5-image forming device, 201-control unit, 202-storage unit, 203-operation unit, 204-communication unit, 205-display unit. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] [Implementation Method 1]

[0060] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram representing the 3D model evaluation system involved in Implementation Method 1.

[0061] <Overall Structure of 3D Model Evaluation System>

[0062] like Figure 1As shown, the 3D model evaluation system 1 includes: a user terminal device 2, used by designers who use 3DCAD to design and draw objects; a server device 4, which connects to the user terminal device 2 via a network 3 and executes the 3D model evaluation program; and an image forming device 5, which prints image information as needed.

[0063] In addition, the user terminal device 2 is not limited to being connected to the server device 4 via the network 3. It may also have a 3D model evaluation program including 3DCAD installed on the user terminal device 2 itself, and the user terminal device 2 constitutes the 3D model evaluation system 1 on its own.

[0064] User terminal device 2 is configured as, for example, a personal computer. However, user terminal device 2 is not limited to a personal computer, and may also be a tablet terminal device that also functions as a personal computer.

[0065] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the server device 4 that uses the 3D model evaluation system 1 described in Embodiment 1.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, the server device 4 includes a control unit 401, a storage unit 402, an operation unit 403, and a communication unit 404, which serve as examples of control mechanisms.

[0067] The control unit 401 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 401 executes operations such as reading from or reading from a database consisting of data from multiple 3D CAD files, or an evaluation program for evaluating 3D models. This data from multiple 3D CAD files is created using 3D CAD programs stored in a storage unit 402, such as a hard disk. The control unit 401 controls the storage unit 402, the operation unit 403, or the communication unit 404, and is connected to the user terminal device 2 or the image forming apparatus 5 via the communication unit 404 and the network 3.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a block diagram representing the user terminal device in the 3D model evaluation system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, the user terminal device 2 includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, an operation unit 203, a communication unit 204, and a display unit 205, which serve as an example of a control mechanism.

[0070] The control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 201 executes 3D CAD programs or evaluation programs for evaluating 3D models, etc., wherein the 3D CAD programs are read from the server device 4 or pre-stored in a storage unit 202, such as a hard disk. The control unit 201 controls the storage unit 202, the operation unit 203, the communication unit 204, or the display unit 205, and transmits and receives data with the server device 4 and the image forming apparatus 5 via the communication unit 204.

[0071] And, as Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 201 functions as follows by executing a 3D model evaluation procedure: a reading unit 206, which reads 3D model data created by 3DCAD; a history verification unit 207, which verifies the creation history when the 3D model data was created by 3DCAD based on the 3D model data read by the reading unit 206; and an evaluation unit 208, which evaluates the degree of consistency between the creation history of the 3D model data verified by the history verification unit 207 and predetermined rules. Predetermined rules, for example, refer to rules for constructing 3D models in a modifiable manner, including: at the beginning of the history, creating a basic layout that determines the overall design shape; in the case of components whose shapes are divided according to each function, not drawing based on the basic layout, but rather maintaining a general shape in the basic layout and creating the layouts of each function at their respective functional levels; and, when creating the implemented 3D model shape, the feature sketches used are not directly based on the basic layout or the layouts of each function, but rather the necessary sketch elements are solidified and used as another sketch, etc.

[0072] Reading Unit 206

[0073] The reading unit 206 reads 3D model data specified by the operation unit 203 of the user terminal device 2 operated by the designer from the database designed and stored in the storage unit 402 of the server device 4. The operation of reading the 3D model data is performed, for example, by accessing the database stored in the storage unit 402 of the server device 4 during the execution of the 3DCAD program, and specifying the 3D model data stored in the database by name, etc.

[0074] Resume Confirmation Department 207

[0075] The history verification unit 207 performs the following actions: verifying the creation history attached to the 3D model data read by the reading unit and the 3D model data created by 3DCAD according to the 3D model evaluation procedure.

[0076] Evaluation Department 208

[0077] The evaluation department 208 performs the following actions: according to the 3D model evaluation procedure, it evaluates the degree of consistency between the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed by the history confirmation department 207 and the predetermined rules.

[0078] Furthermore, the operation of the 3D model evaluation procedure executed by the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 will be described in detail later.

[0079] <Design of 3D Models>

[0080] Before using the 3D model evaluation system 1 to evaluate the 3D model data, the steps for using a gearbox designed by 3DCAD as an example of a 3D model are explained.

[0081] The gearbox, which is the object of the design, has the following structure.

[0082] like Figure 5 As shown, the gearbox 60 is formed, for example, by integral molding of synthetic resin. Figure 6 As shown, the gearbox 60 houses components such as the first gear 61 to the third gear 63, which are examples of multiple (three in the example) drive force transmission mechanisms for transmitting rotational drive force, in a rotatable manner in a predetermined position.

[0083] The first gear 61 is a two-stage gear, comprising: a first large-diameter portion 611, which is composed of a spur gear or the like with a relatively large outer diameter and a required outer diameter and number of teeth; a first small-diameter portion 612, which is integrally formed with and coaxially oriented with the first large-diameter portion 611, and is composed of a spur gear or the like with a smaller outer diameter and a required outer diameter and number of teeth; and a first rotating shaft 613, which is integrally formed with or separate from the first large-diameter portion 611 and the first small-diameter portion 612. The second gear 62 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the center of the first gear 61. Similar to the first gear 61, the second gear 62 is a two-stage gear, comprising: a second large-diameter portion 621, which is composed of a spur gear or the like with a relatively large outer diameter and a required outer diameter and number of teeth; a second small-diameter portion 622, which is coaxially fixed to the second large-diameter portion 621 while being separated vertically along the Z direction, and is composed of a spur gear or the like with a smaller outer diameter and a required outer diameter and number of teeth than the second large-diameter portion 621; and a second rotating shaft 623, which is integrally formed with the second large-diameter portion 621 and the second small-diameter portion 622 or is separate from them. The second small-diameter portion 622 of the second gear 62 meshes with the first small-diameter portion 612 of the first gear 61 to transmit rotational driving force. The third gear 63 is positioned at a predetermined position separate from the first gear 61 and the second gear 62. The third gear 63 is a first-stage gear, and its outer diameter is set to be smaller than the first large diameter portion 611 and the second large diameter portion 621 of the first gear 61 and the second gear 62. The third gear 63 has a third rotating shaft 631 that is integral with or separate from the third gear 63.

[0084] like Figure 5 As shown, the gearbox 60 includes: a gearbox body 601 that houses the first gear 61 to the third gear 63 in a shape that covers the outer periphery of the plane; a first receiving portion 602 that is provided on the upper end surface of the gearbox body 601 in a state that protrudes upward along the vertical direction Z, and houses the first minor diameter portion 612 of the first gear 61; and a second receiving portion 603 that is similarly provided on the upper end surface of the gearbox body 601 in a state that protrudes upward along the vertical direction Z, and houses the second minor diameter portion of the second gear 62. Part 622; Third receiving part 604, similarly provided on the upper end surface of gearbox body 601 in a state of protruding upward along the vertical direction Z, and rotatably supporting and receiving the third rotating shaft 631 of the third gear 63; First mounting part 605, provided in a state of protruding in a planar rectangular shape toward the side of gearbox body 601; and Second mounting part 606, provided in a state of protruding in a planar rectangular shape toward the side of gearbox body 601 at a position opposite to the first mounting part 605.

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, the gearbox body 601 is formed with a predetermined height H1 (reference). Figure 5The gearbox body 601 has a roughly triangular, hollow box shape, with the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61, the second large diameter portion 621 of the second gear 62, and the third gear 63 located at three vertices. The bottom surface of the gearbox body 601 is fully open. The upper surface of the gearbox body 601 is fully closed by the upper surface 607. The gearbox body 601 has the following on its outer peripheral surface: a first curved portion 641, which is curved in an arc shape (fan shape) at a position corresponding to the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61; a second curved portion 642, which is curved in an arc shape at a position corresponding to the second large diameter portion 621 of the second gear 62; a third curved portion 643, which is curved in an arc shape at a position corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of the third gear 63; a first flat portion 644, which connects the first curved portion 641 and the second curved portion 642 in a planar manner; a second flat portion 645, which connects the second curved portion 642 and the third curved portion 643 in a planar manner; and a third flat portion 646, which connects the third curved portion 643 and the first curved portion 641 in a planar manner.

[0086] In addition, Figure 7 In the text, symbol 64 represents an intermediate gear that meshes with the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61 and the third gear 63. A cut-out recess 647 is provided on the third flat portion 646 of the gearbox body 601 so that the intermediate gear 64 can be rotatably inserted.

[0087] like Figure 5 As shown, the first receiving portion 602 is formed as a cylindrical shape that protrudes upward in the vertical direction Z to a predetermined height H2 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601. The upper end surface 602a of the first receiving portion 602 is closed. Furthermore, on the upper end surface 602a of the first receiving portion 602, a first shaft support portion 602b that supports the first rotating shaft 613 of the first gear 61 and is rotatable has a circular opening. On the outer periphery of the first shaft support portion 602b, a cylindrical first flange portion 602c is provided to be relatively short and protrudes upward in the vertical direction Z. The first flange portion 602c protrudes upward in the vertical direction Z to a predetermined height H3 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601. In addition, the first receiving portion 602 can be defined as the height (H2-H1) relative to the upper end surface 607 of the gearbox body 601, rather than the height H2 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601. Furthermore, the first flange portion 602c can also be defined as the height (H3-H1) relative to the upper end surface 607 of the gearbox body 601, rather than the height H3 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601.

[0088] The second receiving portion 603 is formed as a cylindrical shape that protrudes upward in the vertical direction Z relative to the bottom surface of the gearbox body 601 by a predetermined height H4, lower than that of the first receiving portion 602. The upper end face 603a of the second receiving portion 603 is closed. Furthermore, on the upper end face 603a of the second receiving portion 603, a second shaft support portion 603b, which supports the second rotating shaft 623 of the second gear 62 and is rotatable, is formed as a cylindrical shape that protrudes upward in the vertical direction Z by a predetermined height H5. At the center of the second shaft support portion 603b, a cylindrical second flange portion 603c is recessed downward in the vertical direction Z at a relatively short predetermined height H7. The bottom surface of the second flange portion 603c is closed, and a support hole 603d, which supports the second rotating shaft 623 of the second gear 62 and is rotatable, is centrally opened. Furthermore, the second receiving portion 603 can be defined as the height (H4-H1) relative to the upper end surface 607 of the gearbox body 601, rather than the height H4 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601. Similarly, the second shaft support portion 603b can be defined as the height (H5-H1) relative to the upper end surface 607 of the gearbox body 601, rather than the height H5 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601.

[0089] The third receiving portion 604 is formed as a cylindrical shape that protrudes upward relative to the bottom surface of the gearbox body 601 at a predetermined height H6 lower than that of the second receiving portion 603. A third shaft support portion 604b is provided on the upper end surface 604a of the third receiving portion 604 to support the third rotating shaft 631 of the third gear 63 so that it can rotate. A protrusion 604c protruding towards the first receiving portion 602 is provided on the outer periphery of the third shaft support portion 604b. Furthermore, the third receiving portion 604 can be defined as having a height (H6-H1) relative to the upper end surface 607 of the gearbox body 601, rather than a height H6 relative to the bottom surface (reference plane) of the gearbox body 601.

[0090] The first mounting portion 605 is formed as a slender, rectangular flat plate with a required thickness that protrudes outward from the outer side of the second flat portion 645 of the gearbox body 601. Mounting holes 605a and 605b are respectively opened at both ends along its long side for mounting the gearbox 60 to the desired mounting position by means of threaded fixing or the like.

[0091] And, as Figure 7 As shown, the second mounting portion 606 is formed as a flat, rectangular plate with a required thickness, protruding outward from the outer side of the first curved portion 641 of the gearbox body 601. A mounting hole 606a is provided on the second mounting portion 606 for mounting the gearbox 60 to the desired mounting position via threaded fastening or the like. Furthermore, in Figure 7For ease of explanation, the first mounting part 605 and the second mounting part 606 are shown to extend into the interior of the gearbox body 601, but the first mounting part 605 and the second mounting part 606 are only provided on the outside of the gearbox body 601.

[0092] <Gearbox Design>

[0093] As an example of the 3D model constructed as described above, the gearbox 60 was designed using 3DCAD. Furthermore, various 3DCAD software can be used, and there is no particular limitation. In this embodiment 1, the 3DCAD software "SOLIDWORKS" from SOLIDWORKS (registered trademark) was used.

[0094] The 3DCAD software (program) is executed, for example, by being read from the server device 4 via the network 3 to the user terminal device 2. Furthermore, the 3DCAD software (program) is executed by being pre-installed in the storage unit 202 of the user terminal device 2.

[0095] First, when designing the gearbox 60 using 3D CAD software, a basic layout is studied in 2D (2-Dimensions) as a study of the shape of the gearbox 60. Here, the basic layout refers to the layout that should at least include the gearbox 60 as the design object. That is, when starting the design using 3D CAD software, a basic layout drawing is created to determine the overall design shape and serve as the highest-level design framework. The basic layout drawing is the simplest and most important element.

[0096] When creating the basic layout drawing, in order to create a 2D sketch in 3D space using 3DCAD software, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the sketch plane in 3D space is specified as the plane on which the drawing is performed (XY, YZ, ZX). In the extrusion feature that extrudes a solid from a sketch, the sketch plane becomes the solid's reference plane; therefore, the orientation of the component in 3D coordinates is determined based on the sketch plane of the initial feature. Here, given the shape of the gearbox 60, the XY plane is set as the sketch plane (solid reference plane) when the 2D sketch was created.

[0097] When designing the gearbox 60, the outer diameter of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63 and the configuration of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63 housed in the gearbox 60 are selected as the basic design concept.

[0098] In this implementation method 1, such as Figure 9 As shown in the basic layout diagram, the outer diameter (tip circle) of the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61 is set to... The outer diameter (gear diameter) of the second largest diameter portion 621 of the second gear 62 is set as follows: The outer diameter (gear diameter) of the third gear 63 is set as follows: Furthermore, regarding the configuration of gears 1 to 3, when the center O1 of gear 1 is set as the origin of the XY plane that forms the sketch plane, the center O2 of gear 2 is positioned relative to the center O1 of gear 1 at a position with an X coordinate of +38mm and a Y coordinate of -20mm, and the center O3 of gear 3 is positioned relative to the center O1 of gear 1 at a position with an X coordinate of...

[0099] The position is +60mm in the Y coordinate and +45mm in the Y coordinate.

[0100] In 3DCAD software, the basic layout diagram, which represents the outer diameter of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63 housed in the gearbox 60 and indicates the configuration of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63, is as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61 is sketched (drawn) with the origin O1 of the XY coordinate system as the center, forming a circle representing the diameter of the first large diameter portion 611 of the first gear 61 with a diameter of 68mm. Similarly, the second large diameter portion 621 of the second gear 62 is sketched with the point O2, located at X coordinate +38mm and Y coordinate -20mm, relative to the origin O1 of the XY coordinate system, as the center, forming a circle representing the diameter of the second large diameter portion 621 of the second gear 62 with a diameter of 68mm. Furthermore, the third gear 63 is sketched with the X coordinate...

[0101] Sketch a circle with a diameter of 37mm to represent the third gear 63, centered at a point at +38mm and Y coordinate -20mm.

[0102] Thus, the circles representing gears 61 through 63 are fully defined by providing sufficient information about the shape, size, and position of the sketch. Here, "fully defined" means defining the shape by assigning information such as dimensions or geometric constraints to the drawing.

[0103] In a sketch, lines do not need to be created with precise sizes. If dimensional constraints representing dimensions and geometric constraints representing the orthogonality of the XY coordinates are applied to the lines after sketching, 3DCAD calculates and changes them to the correct line position and size, which is then displayed on the display unit 205 of the user terminal device 2. Dimensional constraints are dimensions created through sketching, and the dimension values ​​are stored as variables in the 3DCAD program. If the variable values ​​are changed, they are reflected in the shape.

[0104] To further explain, when the outer diameter or configuration of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63 is changed due to design changes to the gearbox 60, etc., the change... Figure 9The dimensions shown can easily accommodate design changes. Changes in size or shape made in the basic layout drawing are directly reflected in subsequent sketches or features.

[0105] Figure 10 This diagram represents the creation history of the basic layout drawing, which is based on the 3D CAD design of the gearbox 60. (Creation history and basic layout) Figure 1 The same tree-shaped diagram is displayed on the display section 205 of the user terminal device 2.

[0106] exist Figure 10 In the middle, a basic layout diagram was created as a sketch with the name "BASE LAYOUT".

[0107] Next, the designers used 3DCAD to create layouts for each function based on the basic layout.

[0108] Based on the design of gearbox 60, the layout diagram of each function is as follows: Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, a layout diagram illustrating the outer and inner circumferential shapes of the gearbox body 601, the shape of the first receiving portion 602, the shape of the second receiving portion 603, the shape of the third receiving portion 604, and the shapes of the first mounting portion 605 and the second mounting portion 606 can be presented. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the text, the symbol 650 indicates a command to show the type of line.

[0109] like Figure 11 As shown, in the gearbox body 601, the first curved portions 641 to 643, arranged on the outer periphery of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63, are spaced 2 mm apart from the outer diameter of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63. That is, the inner peripheral surfaces of the first curved portions 641 to 643 are sketched (illustrated) as arcs formed by adding 2 mm to the outer diameter of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63. The wall thickness of the gearbox body 601 is set to 2 mm. That is, the outer peripheral surfaces of the first curved portions 641 to 643 are sketched (illustrated) as arcs formed by adding 4 mm (=2+2) to the outer diameter of the first gear 61 to the third gear 63. Furthermore, in the gearbox body 601, the first curved portions 641 to 643 are connected to each other by first flat portions 644 to 646, each with a wall thickness of 2 mm.

[0110] Thus, sketch and create the functional layout diagram of the gearbox body 601. At this time, the bottom surface of the gearbox body 601 is set as the end face of the basic shape. That is, the bottom surface of the gearbox body 601 becomes the reference plane.

[0111] Similarly, as Figure 12As shown, the upper end face 602a of the first receiving portion 602 and the upper end face 603a of the second receiving portion 603 are sketched as circles with a predetermined height relative to the reference plane.

[0112] Moreover, such as Figure 13 As shown, the designer uses 3DCAD to create the functional layout diagrams of the gearbox body 601 in the PART LAYOUT tree based on the basic layout diagram. The sketches are named "PL_Basic Outer Diameter_PTV" for the first receiving section 602, "PL_A Section_PTV" for the second receiving section 603, "PL_B Section_PTV" for the third receiving section 604, "PL_C Section_PTV" for the first mounting section 605 and the second mounting section 606, and "PL_Mounting Section_PTV" for the retraction section 647 (see reference). Figure 7 The functional layout diagram of each function.

[0113] Thus, using 3DCAD, a layout diagram is created based on the basic layout diagram, illustrating the outer and inner circumferential shapes of the gearbox body 601, the shape of the first receiving part 602, the shape of the second receiving part 603, the shape of the third receiving part 604, the shape of the first mounting part 605 and the second mounting part 606, and the shape of the retraction part 647.

[0114] Then, as Figures 14 to 17 As shown, the designers used 3DCAD to perform three-dimensional design of each functional part, namely the gearbox body 601, the first receiving part 602, the second receiving part 603 and the third receiving part 604, based on the layout diagram of each function.

[0115] When performing the three-dimensional design of the gearbox body 601, such as Figure 14 As shown, based on the layout diagram of each function, and based on the sketch representing the outline of the gearbox body 601 (reference), Figure 11 The three-dimensional shape of the gearbox body 601 is designed by performing an extrusion feature operation on a predetermined height H1.

[0116] At this point, when designing the three-dimensional shape of the gearbox body 601, such as Figure 18 As shown, instead of directly using the sketch representing the shape of the gearbox body 601, which is named "PL_Basic Shape_PTV", the sketch with the reference name "PL_Basic Shape" is used.

[0117] The sketch of "_PTV" is used to perform an Extrude operation on the "Basic Shape_Outer Side" feature.

[0118] Thus, when performing an extrusion feature operation based on a sketch representing the shape of the gearbox body 601, the sketch "PL_Basic Shape_PTV" representing the shape of the gearbox body 601 is not used directly. Instead, the extrusion feature operation is performed with reference to the sketch "PL_Basic Shape_PTV". As a result, the original sketch "PL_Basic Shape_PTV" representing the shape of the gearbox body 601 remains directly on the tree representing the history, and a new extrusion feature operation with the name "Basic Shape_Outer" is performed.

[0119] Then, similarly, after referring to the sketches “PL_A_PTV”, “PL_B_PTV”, “PL_C_PTV”, “PL_Mounting_PTV”, and “PL_Retraction_PTV” that represent the external shapes of the first receiving part 602 and the second receiving part 603, the extrusion feature operation is performed based on these sketches. Figure 18 As shown, referring to the original sketch "PL_A section"

[0120] Following "PL_PTV", "PL_B_PTV", "PL_C_PTV", "PL_Installation_PTV", and "PL_Retreat_PTV", the sketch "PL_A_PTV", "PL_B_PTV", "PL_C_PTV", "PL_Installation_PTV", and "PL_Retreat"

[0121] The "_PTV" entry remains directly on the tree representing the resume, creating new resumes such as "A Part 1_Outer Side", "A Part_Spindle", "B Part 1_Outer Side", "B Part_Spindle", etc.

[0122] The design process for gearbox 60 is now complete after the above steps.

[0123] The 3D model data of the gearbox 60 thus created is stored as 3D model data in the database of the storage unit 402 of the server device 4 by the designer operating the operation unit 203 of the user terminal device 2.

[0124] <3D Model Evaluation System>

[0125] In the 3D model evaluation system 1, the quality of the 3D model of the gearbox 60 designed by the designer using 3DCAD is evaluated as described above.

[0126] As mentioned above, the 3D model of the gearbox 60 designed using 3DCAD may sometimes change the shape or size of components such as the first gear 61 to the third gear 63, or the constituent elements of the components, depending on subsequent design changes.

[0127] At this point, depending on the design quality of the 3D model, it is sometimes difficult to cope with subsequent design changes. In PDQ (Product Data Quality), when changing 3D model data, problems such as the shape or configuration of components being unintentionally changed or deleted may occur.

[0128] If the model data of the designed 3D model cannot be effectively applied in subsequent design changes, it will not only place a heavy burden on other designers who are making design changes, but also be equivalent to wasting the human resources required to create the model data of the 3D model, which may lead to huge losses in product environmental assessment.

[0129] Therefore, the 3D model evaluation system 1 according to Embodiment 1 is configured to include, in order to easily evaluate the ease of use when utilizing 3D model data, a reading unit that reads 3D model data created by 3DCAD; a history verification unit that verifies the creation history when 3D model data is created by 3DCAD attached to the 3D model data read by the reading unit; and an evaluation unit that evaluates the degree of consistency between the creation history of the 3D model data verified by the history verification unit and predetermined rules.

[0130] That is, the 3D model evaluation system 1 according to Embodiment 1 is either integrated into a 3DCAD program (software) as an additional function, or created and used as a separate program (software) independent of the 3DCAD program (software). The 3D model evaluation system 1 according to Embodiment 1 is integrated into a 3DCAD program (software) as an additional function.

[0131] like Figure 4 As shown, the 3D model evaluation system 1 is configured as a program executed by the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2.

[0132] like Figure 1 As shown, in the 3D model evaluation system 1, the user operates the operation unit 203 of the user terminal device 2 to evaluate the 3D model, thereby the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 reads the 3D model data of the 3D model designed by the designer from the storage unit 402 of the server device 4.

[0133] Users evaluating 3D models can open the 3DCAD program to open the 3D model evaluation program that accompanies the 3DCAD program, or open the 3D model evaluation program that is saved independently of the 3DCAD program.

[0134] The control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 performs the action of evaluating the 3D model data of the read 3D model according to the evaluation procedure of the 3D model.

[0135] First, when evaluating the 3D model data of the 3D model, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 evaluates whether the 3D model data refers to the basic layout drawing based on the judgment criteria of the layout application.

[0136] Specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 refers to the history of the 3D model data read and determines whether there is a sketch with the name "BASELAYOUT" corresponding to the basic layout drawing created in 2D at the top of the creation history.

[0137] (1) Criteria for judging layout application

[0138] First, regarding the criteria for determining the application of layout, create a basic layout diagram and determine whether it is suitable as a criterion for modeling.

[0139] Regarding the criteria for determining whether a layout is applied, the following formula is used to determine whether a layout sketch is created and used in modeling. The formula is as follows: the total number of sketch features that reference the layout sketch in the sketches used in the feature is divided by the total number of sketches used in the feature.

[0140]

[0141] like Figure 18 As shown, in this embodiment 1, all sketches used in the feature are referenced layout sketches, and the total number of sketch features that reference layout sketches in the sketches used in the feature is the same as the total number of sketches used in the feature, with a score of 100.

[0142] The evaluation is conducted in five stages based on the score. A score of 50 or above is the best evaluation, rated "5" across the five stages. Next, a score between 30 and 50 is the second best evaluation, rated "4" across the five stages. A score between 10 and 30 is the third best evaluation, rated "3" across the five stages. A score between 5 and 10 is the fourth best evaluation, rated "2" across the five stages. A score below 5 is the worst evaluation, rated "1" across the five stages.

[0143] Comparative Example 1

[0144] like Figure 19As shown, in Comparative Example 1, instead of creating a layout sketch, the shape is studied while the 3D model is being created. Therefore, in cases of re-examination due to design changes, since a basic layout diagram representing the design intent has not been created, and there are no layout diagrams for each function, it takes a lot of time to revise the 3D model, or it is difficult to understand the design intent.

[0145] In the sketches used in the feature, the total number of sketch features of the reference layout sketch is zero, so the evaluation score becomes "0", and the evaluation becomes the lowest evaluation of "1".

[0146] (2) Judgment criteria for each functional layout

[0147] Next, when the design object designed by 3DCAD is divided into multiple functions, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 performs an evaluation based on the functional layout judgment criteria for evaluating whether each functional layout diagram corresponding to the multiple functions has been created.

[0148] Here, the value obtained by dividing the total number of layout sketches used for each function layout by the total number of sketches used in the feature is set as the criterion for determining whether a layout sketch divided by each function has been created.

[0149]

[0150] The evaluation is conducted in five stages based on the score. A score of 20 or higher is the best evaluation, rated "5" across the five stages. Next, a score between 10 and 20 is the second best evaluation, rated "4" across the five stages. A score between 5 and 10 is the third best evaluation, rated "3" across the five stages. A score between 0.5 and 5 is the fourth best evaluation, rated "2" across the five stages. A score less than 0.5 is the worst evaluation, rated "1" across the five stages.

[0151] In this embodiment 1, the total number of layout sketches used for local layout is 6, and the total number of sketches used in the features is also 6. In this embodiment 1, the score of the judgment criterion for layout application is 100, so the evaluation becomes the highest evaluation "5".

[0152] Comparative Example 2

[0153] like Figure 19 As shown, in Comparative Example 2, instead of creating layout sketches, the shapes are studied while creating 3D models. Therefore, the total number of layout sketches used for each function layout becomes zero.

[0154] (3) Judgment criteria for reference plane application

[0155] Then, the user uses the control unit 201 of the terminal device 2 to perform an evaluation based on the judgment criteria for whether the 3D model data applies a reference plane.

[0156] The value obtained by dividing the total number of sketches drawn on the reference plane by the total number of sketches used by the feature is set as the criterion for determining whether to use the reference plane in the sketch plane definition when drawing a sketch.

[0157]

[0158] In this embodiment 1, the total number of sketches drawn on the reference plane is 6, and the total number of feature sketches is also 6.

[0159] The evaluation is conducted in five stages based on the score. A score of 90 or above is the best evaluation, rated "5" across the five stages. Next, a score between 70 and 90 is the second best evaluation, rated "4" across the five stages. A score between 50 and 70 is the third best evaluation, rated "3" across the five stages. A score between 20 and 50 is the fourth best evaluation, rated "2" across the five stages. A score below 20 is the worst evaluation, rated "1" across the five stages.

[0160] Comparative Example 3

[0161] like Figure 20 As shown, in Comparative Example 3, the sketch plane is defined as different shapes on the surface of the boss and the top of the boss. Therefore, if the boss is deleted by shape change, an error of missing sketch plane will occur.

[0162] (4) Judgment criteria that do not directly refer to the entity

[0163] Furthermore, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 performs an evaluation based on the judgment criteria of whether the 3D model data does not directly reference the entity.

[0164] The value obtained by dividing the total number of sketches that do not directly reference the model shape in the feature usage sketch by the total number of feature usage sketches is set as the criterion for determining whether the edge or surface of the model shape is not directly referenced in the sketch drawing.

[0165]

[0166] The evaluation is conducted in five stages based on the score. A score of 80 or above is the best evaluation, rated "5" across the five stages. Next, a score between 50 and 80 is the second best evaluation, rated "4" across the five stages. A score between 30 and 50 is the third best evaluation, rated "3" across the five stages. A score between 10 and 30 is the fourth best evaluation, rated "2" across the five stages. A score below 10 is the worst evaluation, rated "1" across the five stages.

[0167] Comparative Example 4

[0168] like Figure 21 As shown, in Comparative Example 4, the size of the boss is defined from the edge in the sketch. Therefore, if the edge disappears through shape change, an error of losing the reference target will occur.

[0169] (5) Create a judgment criterion for direct reference of features

[0170] Furthermore, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 performs an evaluation based on a judgment criterion that the creation features of the 3D model data do not directly reference the edges or surfaces of the model shape.

[0171] The criterion for determining whether a feature creation directly references another feature is based on the following formula: the total number of features in the reference model divided by the number of bosses / bases / cuts / patterns, the number of reference planes, and the number of reference geometries. This value is used as the criterion for determining whether the shape creation feature does not directly reference the edges or surfaces of the model shape. Additionally, the denominator is the sum of the values ​​obtained from the summation.

[0172]

[0173] Reference geometry is used to define the shape of a surface or solid. Reference geometry includes planes, axes, coordinate systems, and points. Reference geometry can be used when creating features.

[0174] The evaluation is conducted in five stages based on the score. The highest evaluation is a score of 100, with a rating of "5" across the five stages. Next, a score of 75 or higher but less than 100 is the second highest, with a rating of "4" across the five stages. A score of 50 or higher but less than 75 is the third highest, with a rating of "3" across the five stages. A score of 25 or higher but less than 50 is the fourth highest, with a rating of "2" across the five stages. A score less than 25 is the lowest evaluation, with a rating of "1" across the five stages.

[0175] Comparative Example 5

[0176] like Figure 22As shown, in Comparative Example 5, the Extrude target is defined as the model surface. Therefore, if the model surface of the Extrude target is deleted due to shape change, the model surface of the Extrude target no longer exists and an error occurs.

[0177] As explained above, the control unit 201 of the user terminal device 2 in the 3D model evaluation system 1 analyzes and calculates the total number of sketches used in the features or the total number of sketch features of the reference layout sketches based on the above 5 evaluation items, and calculates and evaluates the above layout application judgment criteria, functional layout judgment criteria, reference plane application judgment criteria, non-direct reference entity judgment criteria, and feature creation direct reference judgment criteria as values ​​for five stages.

[0178] And, as Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the 3D model evaluation system 1 sets the evaluation results to numerical values ​​for each evaluation item, and creates a trend radar chart as an example of a chart based on the evaluation values ​​of the five stages, or records the content of the evaluation items as a fixed text based on the numerical values ​​to the evaluation values ​​in the chart and displays it on the display unit 205 of the user terminal device 2, or prints it through the image forming device 5.

[0179] Therefore, according to the 3D model evaluation system 1 of this embodiment 1, by using the evaluation values ​​of the judgment criteria for reference layout application, the judgment criteria for each functional layout, the judgment criteria for reference plane application, the judgment criteria for non-directly referenced entities, and the judgment criteria for creating features that are directly referenced, it is possible to evaluate the ease of use or the degree of error generation when using 3D model data for design changes, etc.

[0180] Thus, according to the 3D model evaluation system 1 of the above-described embodiment 1, compared with the case of obtaining and evaluating the unit structure of the product and the information of the constituent components within the unit, the material information of each component, and the processing information, it is easier to evaluate the ease of use when using 3D model data.

[0181] The embodiments of the present invention described above are provided for illustrative purposes. Furthermore, these embodiments do not encompass the entirety of the invention, nor do they limit the invention to the disclosed methods. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations will be readily understood. These embodiments were chosen and described to most readily explain the principles and applications of the invention. Thus, those skilled in the art can understand the invention through various modifications that are assumed to be optimized for specific uses of various embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the foregoing claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A 3D model evaluation system comprising: a reading section that reads 3D model data created by a 3D CAD; a history confirmation section that confirms a creation history attached to the 3D model data read by the reading section, the creation history referring to a history at the time of creation of the 3D model data by the 3D CAD; and an evaluation section that evaluates a degree of agreement of the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed by the history confirmation section with a predetermined rule, the predetermined rule referring to a rule for constructing a 3D model in a modifiable manner, the evaluation section evaluating whether a two-dimensional basic layout diagram is present at the top level of the creation history as the creation history at the time of creation of the 3D model data by the 3D CAD.

2. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation section evaluates a scale of the 3D model data with reference to the basic layout diagram.

3. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein in a case where a design object designed by the 3D CAD is divided into a plurality of functions, the evaluation section evaluates whether each function layout diagram corresponding to the plurality of functions is created.

4. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 3, wherein the evaluation section evaluates whether the 3D model data is not referenced in the each function layout diagram.

5. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation section evaluates an evaluation result for each evaluation item as a numerical value.

6. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 5, wherein the evaluation section evaluates the 3D model data according to at least one or more of the following judgment criteria: a layout application judgment criterion that evaluates whether the 3D model data references a basic layout diagram; each function layout judgment criterion that, in a case where a design object designed by the 3D CAD is divided into a plurality of functions, evaluates whether each function layout diagram corresponding to the plurality of functions is created; a reference plane application judgment criterion that evaluates whether the 3D model data applies a reference plane; a judgment criterion that does not directly reference an entity that evaluates whether the 3D model data does not directly reference an entity; and a creation feature direct reference judgment criterion that evaluates whether the 3D model data does not directly reference an edge or a surface of a model shape at the time of creation of a feature.

7. The 3D model evaluation system according to claim 6, wherein the evaluation section displays the evaluation results of the layout application judgment criterion, the each function layout judgment criterion, the reference plane application judgment criterion, the judgment criterion that does not directly reference an entity, and the creation feature direct reference judgment criterion in a graph.

8. A 3D model evaluation method comprising: a reading step of reading 3D model data created by a 3D CAD; a history confirmation step of confirming a creation history attached to the 3D model data read in the reading step, the creation history referring to a history at the time of creation of the 3D model data by the 3D CAD; and an evaluation step of evaluating a degree of agreement of the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed in the history confirmation step with a predetermined rule, the predetermined rule referring to a rule for constructing a 3D model in a modifiable manner, the evaluation step evaluating whether a two-dimensional basic layout diagram is present at the top level of the creation history as the creation history at the time of creation of the 3D model data by the 3D CAD. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ an evaluation step of evaluating a degree of coincidence of the creation history of the 3D model data confirmed in the history confirmation step with a predetermined rule for creating a 3D model in a modifiable manner, In the evaluation step, it is evaluated whether or not a two-dimensional basic layout map is coincident with the creation history at the highest level in the creation history when the 3D model data is created by the 3D CAD.

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