3D Pattern Assembly Using Trihedral Reference Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CAD systems lack the ability to create and reuse three-dimensional patterns, as they are limited to two-dimensional patterns and do not allow for the application of external constraints, making it difficult to design complex assemblies and manage constraints between objects in a three-dimensional space.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that positions and orients a predefined set of trihedrals in a three-dimensional scene, allowing objects to be attached to these trihedrals and positioned according to their orientation, with the use of adjustment matrices and constraints to facilitate the creation of three-dimensional modeled assemblies, enabling the reuse of patterns and application of both intrinsic and extrinsic constraints.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two-dimensional patterns are used to position objects, then the pattern creation process is simple, but three-dimensional pattern creation is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern dimensionalityVSAvoidpattern creation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional patterns to three-dimensional patterns by introducing a third dimension (Z-axis) for pattern specification. The system now allows defining patterns in 3D space with coordinates (X, Y, Z) and orientation angles (alpha, beta, gamma), enabling objects to be arranged in three-dimensional configurations rather than confined to flat planes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If procedural approaches are used to create patterns, then pattern generation is automated, but external constraints cannot be applied to pattern specifications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstraint application capabilityVSAvoidpattern creation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mathematical solver that acts as a bridge between the pattern creation procedure and constraint application. The solver receives pattern specifications and constraints simultaneously, formulates a mathematical model, and computes the optimal pattern configuration that satisfies all constraints. This intermediary enables both automated generation and constraint enforcement without sacrificing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If patterns are reused from reference catalogs, then design time is reduced, but patterns cannot be reused across different three-dimensional scenes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern reuse capabilityVSAvoidpattern scene compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal pattern specification system that can be applied across different three-dimensional scenes. Patterns are defined with scene-independent parameters (coordinates, dimensions, orientation angles) that can be instantiated in any target scene. The system imports pattern specifications from reference catalogs and adapts them to different scenes by applying transformation matrices and coordinate system mappings, enabling cross-scene pattern reuse.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Manufacturing precision

If objects are positioned according to fixed pattern specifications, then positioning is precise, but constraints between objects and other elements cannot be respected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject positioning precisionVSAvoidconstraint satisfaction capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms fixed, static pattern specifications into dynamic, adjustable configurations. The mathematical solver iteratively adjusts object positions and orientations within the pattern while satisfying constraints. The system allows constraints to be applied during pattern generation and modification, enabling dynamic adaptation of pattern specifications to meet constraint requirements while maintaining precise positioning through controlled optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9183674B2Designing a three-dimensional modeled assembly of objects in a three-dimensional scene
Publication Date: 2015.11.10 DASSAULT SYSTEMES SA
  • US9183674B2 patent drawing
  • US9183674B2 patent drawing
  • US9183674B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is directed to a computer-implemented method for designing a three-dimensional modeled assembly of objects in a three-dimensional scene, wherein the method comprises the steps of: positioning and orienting a predefined set of trihedrals in the three-dimensional scene, each trihedral defining a position and an orientation; providing a set of objects; attaching each object of the set of objects to one corresponding trihedral of the predefined set of trihedrals; and positioning and orienting each object according to the position and the orientation of the corresponding trihedral of the predefined set of trihedrals.