CAD Structural Element Positioning with Dynamic Reference Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CAD software lacks an efficient method to define a precision drawing point with respect to non-parallel reference lines in a user-defined 2D cross section, particularly in building information models, where reference lines need to be determined dynamically and interactively.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that dynamically determines reference lines based on the cursor position within a CAD model, allowing users to easily position structural elements by displaying alignment lines and providing distances to parallel reference lines, which can be locked or adjusted using user input devices for precise placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single reference point is used for positioning structural elements, then the positioning method is simple, but it cannot provide precise positioning with respect to multiple non-parallel reference lines
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning method is segmented into multiple independent distance measurements, each relative to a different reference line. Instead of using a single complex reference system, the patent divides the positioning task into measuring distance to first reference line, distance to second reference line, and optionally distance to third reference line, allowing precise positioning through multiple simple measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D positioning (single reference point) to 3D positioning by adding multiple reference lines in different directions. By measuring distances to multiple non-parallel reference lines, the system creates a three-dimensional reference framework that enables precise positioning in the 2D drawing plane
2Adaptability or versatility
If reference lines are determined dynamically based on cursor position, then user control and adaptability are improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining reference lines based on the current cursor position and structural element being positioned. The CAD software autonomously identifies suitable reference lines from the model without requiring manual selection by the user, reducing operational complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring cursor position and dynamically adjusting the set of available reference lines. As the cursor moves, the system provides feedback about which reference lines are available and what distances would be measured, allowing the user to understand and control the positioning process
3Measurement precision
If multiple distances to non-parallel reference lines are measured, then positioning precision is improved, but the number of measurements and operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-identifying and presenting all available reference lines to the user before the actual positioning occurs. The CAD software analyzes the structural model in advance, determines which lines can serve as reference lines, and organizes them for selection, so that during positioning the user only needs to select from pre-processed options rather than analyzing the model in real-time
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning method is designed to be universal by accommodating different numbers of reference lines (two or three) and different configurations (parallel or non-parallel). The same basic measurement and calculation process works whether two reference lines or three reference lines are used, whether they are parallel or at angles, reducing the need for multiple specialized procedures
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a computer-implemented method, a computer program product, and a server for positioning a structural element in a 2D section of a CAD structure. The invention is characterized in that at least two distances, each distance in between an alignment line of the structural element and a parallel reference line of the 2D section, are displayed on a user visualization means and dynamically updated as the location of the structural element within the 2D section is changed. In a preferred embodiment, the reference lines are dynamically chosen based on the location of the structural element within the 2D section.