CAD Feature Attribute Mapping for Downstream Requirements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CAD systems face challenges in efficiently managing and applying the vast quantity of information associated with thousands of unique parameters for each feature of a part, limiting their practical application in downstream processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-aided design system that assigns object attributes to features using a predefined schema, allowing for the generation of information usable by downstream systems in a different format, and includes automated population and mapping of these attributes to generate a bill of characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If additional information is attached to each feature of a CAD model, then the completeness of part and feature requirements is improved, but the complexity of the CAD model increases to impractical levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the massive quantity of information by organizing it into a structured schema with standardized attribute categories (geometric, material, manufacturing, inspection). This segmentation allows the information to be managed systematically rather than as an unmanageable mass, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the representation parameters by introducing a standardized schema that transforms diverse information into consistent attribute formats. This parameter standardization enables efficient storage and retrieval while reducing the complexity of managing varied data structures.
2Manufacturing precision
If thousands of unique parameters are applied to multiple features, then the accuracy of feature characterization is improved, but the usability of the CAD model for downstream processes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a characterization system as an intermediary between the CAD model and downstream processes. This system translates the detailed feature parameters into a standardized schema format that is easily consumable by downstream manufacturing, inspection, and assembly processes, thereby maintaining accuracy while improving usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized schema serves multiple functions simultaneously: it characterizes features accurately for manufacturing precision, provides consistent data formats for downstream processes, enables automated information extraction, and facilitates data exchange between different systems. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between precision and usability.
3Productivity
If automated utility populates object attributes, then the productivity of information generation is improved, but the flexibility for custom attribute assignment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the automated utility can operate in different modes: automatic population using default schema values, semi-automatic population allowing user review and modification, and manual population for highly customized requirements. This dynamic flexibility allows the system to adapt to different productivity needs while maintaining the ability to customize when necessary.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer implemented method of communicating information within a model of a component (42) in a computer-aided design (CAD) system (20) to a second system (64), the method includes accessing a CAD model (36) of the component (42) with a processor based device (22) of a CAD system (20), the component (42) includes a plurality of features (44A-C), assigning one or more object attributes (48) in a first format to one or more features (44A-C) of the CAD model (36), and mapping the assigned object attributes (48) to at least one characteristic based on a predefined schema (32) to generate information that is usable by a downstream system (40) in a second format that differs from the first format.