Mesh Data Format Translation for Stamping Die Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing mesh data formats used in die development applications are often incompatible across different software tools, requiring unique mesh data models for each application, which hinders efficient analysis and simulation of die aspects in sheet metal forming processes.

Innovation Solution

A method is developed to translate mesh data files between point-facet and node-element formats, involving calculations of normal vector values and swapping or removing elements based on predetermined criteria, allowing a common mesh data set to be used across various software applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If mesh data is created in one application format, then the analysis can be conducted efficiently in that application, but the mesh data is not compatible with other applications requiring unique mesh data models for each tool

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomputational efficiencyVSAvoidsoftware compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a mesh data conversion system that acts as an intermediary between different software applications. The system includes a mesh data creator that generates mesh data in one application's format and a mesh data converter that translates the mesh data to another application's format, enabling the same mesh data to be used across multiple development applications without recreating it for each tool

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal mesh data representation that can be converted to multiple different formats. The mesh data model is designed to be application-agnostic, allowing the same underlying mesh data to serve multiple functions across different software tools through format conversion, rather than requiring separate mesh data models for each application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If unique mesh data models are created for each application, then format compatibility is achieved, but the time and resources required to create and maintain multiple mesh data sets increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesoftware compatibilityVSAvoidmesh data creation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the mesh data created in one application as a source template and creates copies in different formats through automated conversion. The mesh data converter generates format-specific versions of the same mesh data by copying and transforming the underlying geometric information, eliminating the need to manually recreate mesh data for each application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs mesh data conversion as a preliminary action before conducting analysis in different applications. The system converts mesh data to the required format in advance, allowing the same mesh data to be reused across multiple applications without repeated creation or conversion during the analysis process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11373020B2Method and system with mesh data conversion for stamping dies

Publication Date: 2022.06.28 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for developing and producing a die using mesh data. A mesh data file representing a surface of the die is created. The mesh data file is configured in an original format that is one of a point-facet format or a node-element format. The mesh data file is translated into a translated format that is another of the point-facet format or the node-element format. Prior to building, the die, as represented by the mesh data file, is evaluated virtually.