3D Model Annotation Indicators for View-Independent Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CAD systems face challenges in annotating three-dimensional models due to the lack of z-axis data for positioning annotations, leading to skewed or unintelligible annotations when viewed from different angles, and require separate software applications for viewing and editing proprietary file formats.
Innovation Solution
A method for storing and displaying annotations associated with specific spatial locations on three-dimensional models, allowing annotations to be visible independently of display views through the use of annotation indicators that remain visible on the periphery or overlay on the model, even when the associated view is obstructed, and can be interactively invoked to display the original annotation context.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If annotations are positioned using only x and y coordinates in a two-dimensional document space, then annotation placement is simple and straightforward, but annotations become skewed or unintelligible when viewed from different three-dimensional angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends annotation positioning from two-dimensional (x, y) coordinates to three-dimensional (x, y, z) coordinates, allowing annotations to be placed at specific spatial locations on the 3D model. This dimensional extension enables annotations to maintain their intelligibility and proper orientation regardless of the viewing angle, as each annotation is anchored to a precise location in 3D space rather than being constrained to a 2D document plane.
2Measurement precision
If annotations are associated with specific display views of a three-dimensional model, then annotations can be precisely positioned for each view, but annotations become invisible or inaccessible when switching to different views
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces annotation indicators as intermediary elements that remain visible across multiple display views. These indicators serve as mediators between the 3D model and the annotations, providing persistent visual cues that guide users to the spatial location of annotations. When users interact with these indicators, the system navigates to the appropriate view to display the full annotation, thus maintaining annotation accessibility without sacrificing positioning precision.
3Reliability
If proprietary CAD file formats are used to maintain model data integrity and editing capabilities, then model accuracy is preserved, but separate software applications are required for viewing and editing, reducing accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal annotation system that works across multiple PDF reader applications and platforms. By leveraging the PDF standard's cross-platform compatibility and embedding 3D model data with annotations in a standardized format, the system enables annotations to be accessed and displayed consistently across different software applications without requiring proprietary CAD software, thus achieving both data integrity and broad accessibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate software applications are provided for different proprietary CAD formats, then each application can optimize for its specific format, but the complexity of the system increases and user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal annotation framework based on the PDF standard that can handle multiple 3D model formats and display views through a single interface. This approach eliminates the need for users to download and manage multiple separate applications for different CAD formats, as the standardized PDF-based system provides consistent annotation functionality across all formats and platforms, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
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AI summary
An annotation method for a three-dimensional model is disclosed. A first set of data representative of a three-dimensional model is stored in a computer memory. A second set of data representative of an annotation is also stored in the computer memory. The annotation is associated with a first spatial location on the three-dimensional model and a first display view. The three-dimensional model and a first graphical representation of the annotation is displayed according to the first display view, with the annotation being positioned as specified by the associated first spatial location. The displaying of the three-dimensional model is modified to a second display view different from the first display view. The annotation is removed from the display window, and an annotation indicator associated with the annotation is displayed. The annotation indicator is visible independent of any display view of the three-dimensional model.