Parametric Lattice Modeling for CAD Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial CAD systems lack sufficient support for creating lattice structures in solid CAD models, leading to computationally demanding and laborious processes, especially when dealing with high-density lattices containing millions of elements, and existing independent applications are not integrated with CAD systems, limiting their use in design processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a scalable lazy evaluation method for designing parts with lattice structures, where lattice geometry is instantiated only where needed, using a rod lattice representation defined by parameters like rod density and layout, and performing trimming operations to consider only rods within void regions for design and manufacturing, reducing computational demands and memory consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complete geometric representation of entire lattice is generated, then modeling precision is improved, but memory consumption and computation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice structure is divided into individual rod elements that can be processed independently. Instead of generating the complete lattice geometry, the system segments the lattice into discrete rods defined by parameters, allowing selective processing and rendering only of visible portions, thereby reducing memory consumption while maintaining modeling precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial geometric representation by generating only the necessary portions of the lattice geometry required for specific operations (visualization, analysis, manufacturing) rather than completing the entire lattice geometry. This partial action approach reduces computational resources while maintaining sufficient precision for the intended purpose.
2Measurement precision
If complete geometric representation of entire lattice is generated, then modeling precision is improved, but computation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice is pre-defined by parametric descriptions (rod density, layout, dimensions) before any geometric representation is generated. This preliminary parameter-based definition allows the system to quickly evaluate and render only the necessary portions of the lattice for specific operations, avoiding the time-consuming generation of complete geometry while maintaining modeling precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system generates geometric representation partially and on-demand based on the specific operation required (visualization, FEA, manufacturing). This approach performs only the necessary computational work at each stage rather than pre-generating complete geometry, significantly reducing computation time while maintaining sufficient precision for each specific task.
3Strength
If high-density lattice structures are modeled, then structural strength is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system represents high-density lattice structures through parametric definitions (rod density, spacing, orientation) rather than explicit geometric representation. This parameter-based approach allows the modeling of complex high-density lattices with millions of elements while maintaining manageable computational complexity, as the parameters compactly describe the entire structure without requiring proportional computational resources.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for modeling of parts with lattice structures and corresponding systems and computer-readable mediums. A method includes receiving a model of an object to be manufactured. The method includes receiving a user specification of a void region within the model to create a lattice. The method includes performing a trimming operation to create a trimmed lattice by tessellating void surfaces and grouping together at least one row of connected rods to be treated as a single entity.