Composite Ply Lay-up Data Extraction System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for obtaining ply lay-up data for composite aircraft parts are costly and inefficient, particularly when two-dimensional drawings are unavailable, and providing three-dimensional models to customers is undesirable due to confidentiality and regulatory issues.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and apparatus that extracts ply lay-up data from three-dimensional models, allowing users to select a location on a composite part and generate extracted data without requiring access to the full three-dimensional model, thereby providing only necessary information for maintenance while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with export laws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If three-dimensional models are provided to customers for obtaining ply lay-up data, then complete and accurate data can be obtained, but confidentiality and regulatory compliance issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the specific ply lay-up data needed for maintenance from the three-dimensional model, rather than providing the entire model to the customer. The system opens the 3D model, extracts relevant section data including ply stacking sequence, orientation, and material information, and returns only this extracted data to the requester, thereby maintaining confidentiality while providing complete necessary information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the three-dimensional model into specific sections or regions of interest. Instead of providing access to the entire model, the system divides the model and provides only the segment containing the required ply lay-up data for the specific location being repaired, reducing information exposure while maintaining data completeness for the needed area
2Object-affected harmful factors
If two-dimensional drawings are used to obtain ply lay-up data, then confidentiality is maintained, but the process becomes costly and inefficient when drawings are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual process of creating and distributing two-dimensional drawings with an automated computer-implemented system. The system uses software to automatically open three-dimensional models, extract ply lay-up data through programmed algorithms, and generate output files, eliminating the need for manual drawing creation and distribution while maintaining confidentiality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of the necessary ply lay-up data from the three-dimensional model in the form of output files. These files contain extracted information about ply stacking sequences, orientations, and materials, providing a digital alternative to physical drawings that can be securely distributed without compromising the original confidential model
3Ease of operation
If customers are required to operate computer-aided design software to access ply lay-up data, then complete data access is enabled, but costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that acts as a bridge between the confidential three-dimensional model and the customer. This intermediary automatically performs the data extraction and generates output files, so customers do not need to operate complex CAD software themselves. The intermediary handles all software operations internally and provides simplified output to the user
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically extracting and providing ply lay-up data without requiring the customer to manually navigate complex software. The automated system opens the model, extracts the needed information, and delivers the results, allowing customers to obtain data independently without needing specialized software operation skills
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for providing ply lay-up data for a composite part. A designation of a location is received for the composite part in a three dimensional object from a requester. A three dimensional model is opened in which the composite part is located. The ply lay-up data is extracted for a section within the composite part within the three dimensional model to form extracted ply lay-up data for the section. An output file is created containing a drawing of the composite part overlaid with a grid containing the section with the ply lay-up data identifying a ply stacking sequence, an orientation of each ply in the ply stacking sequence, and a material for the each ply in the ply stacking sequence. The output file is returned to the requester.