Multi-Element Feature Construction via Single Sketch in 3D CAD
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CAD systems face challenges in efficiently constructing and modifying complex multi-feature holes, including difficulties in error recognition, manual depth calculation, and feature reordering, which increases design time and file size.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for constructing a multi-element feature in a 3D CAD model by creating a single sketch that defines the shape of the feature, using subsets of sketch entities for each element, and applying a modeling operation to create the feature, with automatic updates and error detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate sketches and features are created for each hole type in a complex multi-feature hole, then the hole can be constructed with multiple different shapes and dimensions, but the user burden and design time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate sketches and features into a single integrated sketch that defines the entire multi-feature hole. This single sketch contains multiple sketch entities that collectively define all hole features, eliminating the need to create and manage multiple separate sketches. The modeling operation applied to this single sketch generates the complete multi-feature hole, significantly reducing user burden and design time while maintaining full versatility in hole design.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual depth calculations are performed for each hole feature in a complex multi-feature hole, then the dimensions can be precisely controlled, but the complexity and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic depth calculations and dimensioning for all hole features through the single sketch definition. The multiple sketch entities within the single sketch automatically define the dimensions, depths, and positions of all hole features without requiring manual calculation. The modeling operation processes these definitions automatically, providing precise dimensional control while eliminating complex manual calculations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate features are created for complex holes, then each feature can be individually defined, but the file size and rebuild time increase proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate feature definitions into a single integrated modeling operation applied to one sketch. Instead of creating and storing multiple separate feature objects that each require individual processing during rebuilds, the system stores a single sketch with multiple entities and applies one modeling operation. This significantly reduces file size and rebuild time while preserving the ability to individually define and control each hole feature through the sketch entities.
4Reliability
If step-by-step approach is used to locate errors in complex multi-feature holes, then the error can be identified, but the process requires deleting and re-creating features which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The single sketch is segmented into multiple sketch entities, each corresponding to a specific hole feature. When an error occurs, the system can identify which specific sketch entity or subset of entities is causing the problem, rather than requiring the user to systematically delete and recreate entire features. This entity-level segmentation enables precise error localization and correction while maintaining the integrity of the overall multi-feature hole definition.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method and system creates a multi-element feature in a three-dimensional (3D) computer-aided design (CAD) model. A first element and a second element are selected to include in the multi-element feature. A single sketch is created comprised of sketch entities, a subset of which defines the first element and another subset of which defines the second element. A connection entity is included in the single sketch. The connection entity joins the first and the second elements. A modeling operation applied to the single sketch creates the multi-element feature.