Geometric Clone Identification in CAD Modelling Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

In CAD systems, identifying and processing geometrically similar elements manually is difficult, time-consuming, and inefficient, leading to prolonged computing times and design iteration delays.

Innovation Solution

A method to automatically identify and label geometric clones by generating and comparing maps of candidate forms to a template, allowing for rapid determination and grouping of similar elements for simultaneous processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual identification and processing of geometrically similar elements is used, then processing accuracy can be maintained, but processing time and design iteration delays increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoiddesign iteration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical identification processes with an automated computer-based system that uses map generation and comparison algorithms to identify geometric clones, thereby eliminating the time-consuming manual inspection while maintaining accurate identification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transforms geometric forms into map representations with specific parameters (nodes, edges, faces) that can be automatically compared and matched, enabling rapid identification of geometric clones through parameter comparison rather than manual visual inspection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If automated map generation and comparison is implemented, then processing efficiency increases, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the complex geometric identification task into manageable segments: generating maps for individual geometric forms, storing them in a library, and comparing candidate maps against template maps, making the automated process more tractable and implementable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10360312B2System and method for identifying clones
Publication Date: 2019.07.23 SIEMENS INDUSTRY SOFTWARE INC
  • US10360312B2 patent drawing
  • US10360312B2 patent drawing
  • US10360312B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods for identifying geometric clones in a modelling system, or simulating modifications to construction of a multi-part product and corresponding data processing systems and computer readable media. A method includes choosing a template of a geometric form and generating and storing a map of the template, identifying a candidate geometric form in the system and exploring the identified candidate geometric form from a start point until returning to the start point or reaching a branch. The method includes generating a map of the explored candidate geometric form, comparing the map of the explored candidate geometric form with the map of the template and labelling the candidate geometric form as a clone if it matches a predetermined portion of the template.