Cross Section Dimensioning via Template Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual and automated solutions for dimensioning cross sections of structures, such as aircraft parts, are time-consuming and error-prone, especially for complex shapes with holes or rotations, and often require extensive rework for minor changes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that uses vector graphics to define and dimension cross sections by comparing arbitrary shapes to pre-defined templates, accounting for variations through iterative comparisons and rotations, allowing for automated section cuts and batch processing, and includes an apparatus with processing circuitry to execute this method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual dimensioning methods are used for complex cross sections, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time consumption and error rates increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses template cross sections as reusable copies that can be matched against actual cross sections through comparison algorithms. Once a template is identified, its pre-defined dimensioning locations are automatically applied, eliminating manual dimensioning work while maintaining adaptability to complex shapes through the template matching process
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms the dimensioning problem from manual measurement to automated parameter comparison by converting cross section geometry into comparable parameters (such as path coordinates, angles, and dimensional relationships). This allows automated matching while handling complex shapes with holes and rotations through parameter transformation and normalization
2Productivity
If automated dimensioning solutions are used for specific cross section shapes, then productivity increases, but adaptability to shape variations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal template matching system that can handle multiple cross section shapes (including those with holes and rotations) through a single automated process. The comparison algorithm is designed to work with various geometric configurations, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate solutions for each shape type
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to different cross section shapes by using iterative comparison processes that can rotate and transform templates to match the actual cross section orientation. The algorithm dynamically determines the best match through multiple comparison iterations, allowing the automated system to handle shape variations without losing productivity
3Extent of automation
If existing automated solutions are applied to cross sections with holes or rotations, then automation benefit is achieved, but extensive rework is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-defining dimensioning locations and parameters in template cross sections before they are needed. When an actual cross section is processed, the system simply matches it against pre-prepared templates and applies the pre-calculated dimensioning information, eliminating the need for rework even when dealing with complex shapes with holes or rotations
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for dimensioning a cross section of a structural product, the cross section having an arbitrary shape. The method includes defining and thereby producing a first definition of the cross section, and accessing template cross sections of various shapes, the template cross sections having respective second definitions of the template cross sections. The method includes performing a comparison of the first definition of the cross section and the respective second definitions of the template cross sections. The method includes identifying a matching one of the template cross sections based on the comparison, the matching one of the template cross sections further having respective locations from which the matching one of the template cross sections is dimensioned. And the method includes applying the respective locations to the cross section, and dimensioning the cross section from the respective locations.