Design Model Population via Physical Attribute Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current design model software is time-consuming to manually import data from detailing models due to different software programs and file formats used by designers and detailers, with limitations in modifying unique ID numbers and structural components.
Innovation Solution
A system that populates a design space by correlating physical attributes of detailing model objects with design model objects, allowing import of additional information without relying on unique identification numbers, using a storage medium, processor, and executable code to match and import data based on physical characteristics like material grade, section size, and location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual import of data from detailing models is performed, then data can be transferred between different software programs, but the process is very time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the detailing model's structural components within the design model. Instead of manually copying data field by field, the system copies the entire structural component representation and its associated physical attributes (location, dimensions, material properties) as a unit, dramatically reducing data transfer time while maintaining accuracy across different software formats
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual intermediary representation layer that translates between the detailing model format and the design model format. This virtual copy acts as a mediator that preserves physical attributes while enabling automatic synchronization, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing time loss
2Extent of automation
If unique ID numbers are used to correlate structural components, then data import can be automated, but modifications to ID numbers are required when design specifications change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the correlation parameter from unique identification numbers to physical attributes (location, dimensions, material properties). This parameter change allows the system to automatically adapt to design specification changes without requiring manual ID number updates, as the physical attributes naturally reflect the current design state
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using ID numbers to find and update components (top-down approach), the patent uses physical attributes to identify and correlate components (bottom-up approach). This inversion eliminates the need for ID number management complexity while maintaining automation, as physical attributes are inherently tied to the design geometry rather than being arbitrary identifiers
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed information is added to structural components, then design accuracy is improved, but the complexity of managing different file formats increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal virtual representation that can store multiple types of detailed information (connection details, material grades, dimensional properties) in a single unified structure. This universal format eliminates the need to manage multiple specialized file formats while maintaining high design accuracy through comprehensive data capture
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for populating a design model for engineering, design, and construction projects are described. The design model contains a 3D representation of an assembled structure. Each structural component within the assembled structure has a set of physical attributes that are electronically stored as design model objects. Additional information about each structural component is electronically supplied by a detailer as detailing model objects. The detailing model objects are imported into the design model using a utility tool. The utility tool comprises a processor and executable code that is configured to: (i) correlate the design and detailing model objects; and (ii) recommend to a user which detailing objects should be imported into the design model. The utility tool correlates physical attributes (e.g., location, section size, section type) rather than unique identification numbers, thus allowing the design model to be populated without relying on identification numbers.