Interactive 2D Projection of 3D Models with Hierarchical Defect Heatmaps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for generating 2D views from 3D models are inefficient and require manual development, often resulting in inaccurate projections due to the lack of consideration for hierarchical defect data and complex multi-part object structures, leading to increased time and expense in product development and analysis.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that applies hierarchical defect data to 3D models, generates heatmap data based on this information, overlays it on the 3D model, and extracts relevant data to create an interactive 2D projection, accurately reflecting systemic defect levels by traversing the bill of materials hierarchy and translating 3D coordinates to 2D space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If mathematical models are used to calculate 2D views from 3D models, then 2D views can be generated, but the accuracy is questionable and additional manual development is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve2D projection accuracyVSAvoidmanual development time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates accurate 2D projections by copying and projecting actual 3D model geometry and defect data rather than using approximate mathematical models. The system extracts precise 2D coordinates from the 3D model's vertex data and projects them accurately, eliminating the need for manual adjustments while maintaining high accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mathematical calculation methods with an automated computer-based projection system. The system automatically extracts 3D coordinates, performs projections using defined projection planes and angles, and generates 2D views with defect data overlay, eliminating manual development work entirely.

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

2Reliability

If traditional 2D projection methods are used, then 2D views can be created, but hierarchical defect data and multi-part object structures are not properly considered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect data representation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity for handling hierarchical data
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the multi-part object into individual components and processes each part separately while maintaining hierarchical relationships. The system extracts defect data for each component, projects it to 2D space, and assembles the complete 2D view with all parts and their respective defect information properly represented.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested data structure where defect data is organized hierarchically within the bill of materials structure. Each component contains its own defect information, which is nested within the parent assembly's data structure, allowing the system to traverse and process defects at multiple hierarchical levels simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of manufacture

If manual development and manipulation is performed for 2D views, then some customization is possible, but time and expense increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve2D view generation efficiencyVSAvoiddevelopment time and expense
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service system where the 2D projection automatically extracts necessary data from the 3D model, performs projections using predefined or user-defined parameters, and generates the final 2D view with defect overlay without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by automatically handling data extraction, coordinate transformation, and view generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal projection system that can handle multiple types of 3D models, defect data formats, and projection requirements through a single automated platform. The system accepts various input formats, applies consistent projection mathematics, and outputs standardized 2D views, eliminating the need for separate manual development processes for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10055811B2System and method for generating interactive 2D projection of 3D model
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US10055811B2 patent drawing
  • US10055811B2 patent drawing
  • US10055811B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for generating an interactive 2D projection of a 3D model includes steps of applying hierarchical defect data to the 3D model of a multi-part object, generating heatmap data based at least in part on the hierarchical defect data, and overlaying the heatmap data on the 3D model. The method also includes steps of extracting data corresponding to the 3D model and including the heatmap data after the overlaying step, and creating the interactive 2D projection based on the extracted data.