CAx Model Associativity Across Domains for MBD and PMI

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Solution Overview

Problem

The conversion of computer models between different model domains in product design, testing, and management is a time-intensive and expensive process, and current methods fail to efficiently maintain associativity and resolution of MBD and PMI data across domains.

Innovation Solution

A method is presented to construct a system model by mapping first CAx model domain data to a higher spatial resolution watertight spline model, integrating PMI data across multiple CAx domains using a systems modeling language, and storing the model in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If computer models are converted between different model domains (e.g., CAM to CAI), then the models can be used across different engineering disciplines, but the conversion process is time-intensive and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodel domain compatibilityVSAvoidconversion time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the model data into distinct components (MBD data and PMI data) that can be independently processed and mapped. By separating the geometric definition (MBD) from the manufacturing/inspection specifications (PMI), the system enables selective conversion and reuse of different data components across domains without requiring complete model reconversion, thereby reducing conversion time and costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a neutral data exchange format as an intermediary that can represent both MBD and PMI information from different CAx domains. This intermediary format serves as a common language that enables seamless data sharing between domains without requiring direct conversion between incompatible domain-specific formats, thus eliminating time-intensive conversion processes while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If PMI data is mapped to MBD data across different CAx domains, then data sharing and updating efficiency is improved, but maintaining associativity and resolution of data becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata sharing efficiencyVSAvoiddata mapping complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal data structure that can accommodate PMI information from multiple CAx domains (manufacturing, inspection, engineering) while maintaining consistent associations with the underlying MBD data. This universal structure uses standardized data elements and relationships that work across domains, enabling efficient data sharing without increasing mapping complexity, as the same structure serves multiple domain requirements simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12566898B2Associativity and resolution of computer-based models and data

Publication Date: 2026.03.03 NVARIATE INC

AI summary

Methods and computer systems for methods, computer systems, and computer-readable memory media for constructing a system model. A first computer-aided x (CAx) model of a tangible object is received that is described in a first CAx model domain and includes a first model-based definition (MBD) and first CAx product manufacturing information (PMI). The first MBD includes geometric data and topological data. Second CAx PMI is received from a second CAx model domain different from the first CAx model domain. The second CAx PMI is mapped to the topological data of the first MBD using a systems modelling language, and a system model is constructed that includes the first MBD and the mapped second CAx PMI. The system model is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium.