Geometric Data Processing for Parts Catalog Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional parts catalog systems do not adequately address the need for a deeper understanding of parts, particularly when changes occur, leading to errors in ordering and maintenance due to the complexity of manual revisions and the high cost of preparing illustrations and exploded diagrams.

Innovation Solution

A geometric data processing apparatus and method that processes three-dimensional model data to generate two-dimensional images, determining changes in components and automatically generating image revision data for neighboring components, reducing errors and costs by enhancing operator comprehension through spatial and hierarchical relationships.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual methods are used to prepare illustrations and exploded diagrams for parts catalogs, then the quality and accuracy of the catalog can be improved, but the cost and time required for preparation increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatalog accuracyVSAvoidpreparation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates two-dimensional images by projecting three-dimensional model data, generating accurate visual representations automatically without manual illustration work. The 2D images are copies derived from the 3D model data through mathematical projection, eliminating manual drawing while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes of drawing and illustration preparation with automated computer-based processing. The system uses algorithms to project 3D model data onto 2D planes, substituting human operators with automated computational mechanisms that rapidly generate accurate catalog images

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

2Manufacturing precision

If manual methods are used to prepare illustrations and exploded diagrams for parts catalogs, then the quality and accuracy of the catalog can be improved, but the cost of preparation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatalog accuracyVSAvoidpreparation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates two-dimensional images by projecting three-dimensional model data, generating accurate visual representations automatically without manual illustration work. The 2D images are copies derived from the 3D model data through mathematical projection, eliminating manual drawing while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables automatic generation of catalog images from existing 3D model data without requiring external illustration services or skilled operators. The apparatus serves itself by processing its own data stores to produce the required visual outputs, eliminating dependency on manual labor and external resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If conventional parts catalog systems are used, then basic part identification is possible, but deeper understanding of parts and their relationships is not adequately provided

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepart identificationVSAvoidspatial relationship information
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system enhances basic 2D part identification by incorporating 3D model data that provides depth and spatial relationship information. The 3D coordinates and modeling data add another dimension of information beyond flat 2D images, enabling users to understand part geometry and spatial relationships more comprehensively

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The system nests multiple levels of information within the parts catalog structure, combining 2D images with embedded 3D model data. The 3D information is nested within the 2D presentation, allowing users to access detailed spatial and geometric information about parts and their relationships while maintaining the simplicity of 2D visualization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Adaptability or versatility

If changes are made to a part of the product, then the product can be improved, but revision of illustrations of that part and other neighboring and associated parts is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct modificationVSAvoidrevision complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges all part information into a unified 3D model data structure where parts and their relationships are integrated. When a part changes, the modification is made in the centralized 3D model, and the system automatically updates all related 2D images that depend on that data, eliminating the need for separate manual revisions of multiple illustrations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes automatic feedback loops where changes to 3D model data trigger automated regeneration of dependent 2D images. The system detects modifications and propagates updates through the catalog structure, automatically identifying and revising neighboring and associated parts that are affected by the change, reducing revision complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7737966B2Method, apparatus, and system for processing geometric data of assembled parts
Publication Date: 2010.06.15 RICOH CO LTD
  • US7737966B2 patent drawing
  • US7737966B2 patent drawing
  • US7737966B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A geometric data processing apparatus which can determine whether a specific component of a three-dimensional model has changed, display two-dimensional images of the specific component and neighboring components thereof, and indicate whether the change in the specific component influences the images of the neighboring components.