Polygonal Mesh Face Insertion for Slanted Surface Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling tools require users to be technically proficient and are often inefficient, as they struggle with intuitive adjustments to polygonal meshes, particularly when dealing with slanted surfaces, self-intersections, and edge collapses, which complicates common modeling tasks.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for modifying polygonal meshes that includes adaptive face insertion, generalized mesh update algorithms, and stepwise modification approaches to handle edge collapses, allowing for intuitive user interactions and reducing the complexity of modeling tasks by determining when to insert new faces based on angular thresholds and updating vertex positions to maintain mesh planarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional PushPull tools are used to transform faces in 3D modeling, then the modeling operation can be performed, but the process becomes complex and inefficient when dealing with slanted surfaces, self-intersections, and edge collapses
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of edge cases (orthogonal, slanted, self-intersecting) before executing the PushPull operation. By pre-defining handling strategies for each case type, the system eliminates the need for users to manually manage complex edge situations, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining systematic complexity management
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts geometric parameters during mesh transformation based on detected edge case types. For slanted surfaces, it modifies the transformation plane orientation; for self-intersections, it adjusts vertex positioning algorithms. These parameter adaptations allow intuitive operation across diverse geometric scenarios without increasing user-facing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing PushPull tools support only orthogonal adjacent faces, then the implementation is simpler, but the versatility and applicability to slanted surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the problem space into distinct edge case categories (orthogonal, slanted, self-intersecting, degenerate) and implements specialized handling logic for each segment. This segmentation allows the tool to support versatile geometries like slanted surfaces while maintaining manageable implementation complexity through modular case-specific processors
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a universal PushPull tool framework that handles multiple face types (orthogonal and slanted) and multiple operation modes (face insertion, mesh update, edge collapse handling) through a single unified algorithmic structure. This multi-functionality achieves broad adaptability without proportionally increasing implementation complexity
3Productivity
If traditional modeling tools are used, then basic operations can be performed, but the number of user interactions required is high and the process is lengthy
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic classification of edge cases and selection of appropriate handling strategies without requiring user intervention. The algorithm autonomously detects slanted surfaces, identifies self-intersections, and applies correct transformation logic, thereby reducing user interaction time while maintaining high productivity through intelligent self-management of complex scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include a method inserting a new face in a polygonal mesh comprising receiving an input corresponding to: a polygonal mesh having a plurality of faces, a selection of a face (fm) of the plurality of faces, a direction vector (d), a modified target plane (pm), and a threshold angle θ. For each edge (e) of the selected face fm, the method further includes determining each adjacent face (fadj) to selected face fm, and inserting a new face at edge e if no adjacent face exists or if fadj is substantially parallel to pm and within threshold θ. In some embodiments, the new face has a normal orthogonal to e and d.