Unified CAD Part Shape and Position Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CAD systems require a staged approach to modify both the shape and position of parts, leading to inefficiencies, errors, and a lack of intuitive design changes, as they do not allow simultaneous modification of part shape and instance positioning.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that enables simultaneous modification of part shape and position by using local and global co-ordinate frames, where positioning entities are grouped rigidly and modeling entities move independently, allowing designers to perform both actions without intermediate stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional CAD systems are used to modify part shape and position, then modifications can be made, but the process requires multiple staged operations which increases time consumption and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges part shape modification and instance positioning operations into a single unified operation. By establishing rigid groupings between positioning entities and coordinate frames, the system allows both shape and position changes to occur simultaneously in one modeling step, eliminating the need for separate staged operations that were required in conventional CAD systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior to the coordinate frames and entity groupings. Positioning entities are rigidly grouped with instance coordinate frames, creating dynamic relationships that automatically maintain associations during modifications. This dynamic structure allows the system to adaptively handle both shape and position changes without requiring manual re-constraint application in separate steps.
2Ease of manufacture
If staged modification process is used, then modifications can be completed, but the process is prone to errors and may leave the model in an inconsistent state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements error prevention mechanisms by establishing rigid groupings and maintaining solving conditions before modifications occur. The system proactively preserves associations between entities and coordinate frames, cushioning against potential consistency errors that could arise during the modification process. This prevents the model from entering an inconsistent state, unlike staged processes where intermediate stages may break associations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through the rigid grouping system that continuously maintains relationships between positioning entities and coordinate frames. As modifications are made, the system automatically feedbacks position and shape changes to maintain model consistency, ensuring that solving conditions are preserved throughout the single unified operation rather than requiring separate verification steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple iterations of shape change and position adjustment are performed, then a solution can be obtained, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments entities into positioning entities and other entities, with positioning entities being rigidly grouped to coordinate frames. This segmentation allows the system to handle shape and position modifications independently yet simultaneously, achieving design accuracy without requiring multiple iterative adjustments. The segmented structure enables direct single-step modifications rather than complex iterative processes.
4Measurement precision
If intermediate stages are introduced to maintain associations, then positioning can be achieved, but the process becomes less intuitive and requires more steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by establishing rigid groupings between positioning entities and instance coordinate frames before modifications occur. This pre-established relationship ensures that positioning accuracy is maintained while allowing designers to perform shape and position changes in a single intuitive operation without needing to introduce artificial intermediate stages to preserve associations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of modifying instances of at least one part P including at least one entity e in a mechanical component design, is disclosed. A first part P1 has a local co-ordinate frame F and includes at least one entity ei. A transform T1 applied to the part P1 obtains a part instance P1T1 having an instance co-ordinate frame F1 in a common global space. At least one entity e1 in the part instance P1T1 is then marked as a positioning entity pe1 and grouped rigidly with the instance co-ordinate frame F1. Causing a positioning entity pe1 to move in the instance co-ordinate frame F1 causes all positioning entities pe1 in the instance co-ordinate frame F1 to move rigidly with the instance co-ordinate frame F1 and any unmarked entities e1 to move independently of the rigid grouping of positioning entities pe1.