Parametric Modeling System Using Tree Hierarchy for Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially available parametric modeling systems are complex and difficult for non-technical users like architects and designers to learn, and they often lose parametric model intelligence when exporting static geometry, making it hard to disseminate valuable engineering information effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for parametric modeling that uses a software program to define a tree hierarchy with zones, parts, and variables, allowing for the creation and representation of three-dimensional objects in a user-friendly format, enabling easy sharing and use across various design environments, including the use of XML data exchange format for data format independence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If commercially available parametric modeling systems are used, then parametric model intelligence can be maintained, but the system complexity and difficulty of use increase significantly for non-technical users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates simplified copies of parametric model data that can be exchanged between systems without requiring the original complex parametric modeling environment. The copy contains essential parametric information in a standardized format that can be used by different applications without needing the source system's proprietary tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data exchange format that acts as a bridge between complex parametric modeling systems and simpler design applications. This intermediary layer preserves parametric model intelligence while being accessible to non-technical users through standard file formats that don't require specialized software.
2Loss of information
If commercially available parametric modeling systems are used, then parametric model intelligence can be maintained, but the ease of operation decreases for non-technical users like architects and designers
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates simplified representations of parametric models that can be viewed and used without requiring knowledge of the original complex modeling system. Users can work with copied parametric data in familiar design environments without needing to learn specialized parametric modeling tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes parametric model data universally accessible across different types of software applications. The same parametric data can be used in specialized engineering software as well as general-purpose design tools, allowing non-technical users to benefit from parametric intelligence in their existing workflow environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static geometry is exported from parametric modeling systems, then accessibility to a wider user base is improved, but parametric model intelligence is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of exporting static geometry, the system creates intelligent copies of parametric models that retain their parametric properties. These copied models can be exchanged as standardized data files that preserve variables, constraints, and relationships, allowing wide distribution without loss of intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms parametric model data into a standardized parameter-based format that can be exchanged between systems. Rather than converting to static geometry, the system maintains data in a parameterized form that can be interpreted by different applications, preserving the ability to modify and analyze design variations.
4Reliability
If proprietary product configurators are used to protect company data, then data security is improved, but the ease of operation decreases as users must learn multiple configuration systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a single parametric model to be used across multiple different configuration systems and applications. Companies can protect their core parametric data while allowing controlled access through standardized data exchange, eliminating the need for users to learn multiple proprietary configurators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates controlled copies of parametric model data that can be safely shared with external users. These copies maintain the necessary intelligence for configuration and analysis while preserving company data security through standardized exchange formats that don't require sharing proprietary software or complete system access.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for parametric modeling of a three-dimensional object has a processor running a software program operable to configure the object by defining a zone comprising a root of a tree hierarchy, the zone having a three-dimensional region defining an outer dimension of the object to be modeled; a part comprising a child of the zone, the part also having a component object to be modeled, wherein the component object is an element of the object; and a variable comprising a child of the part, wherein variable has data defining characteristics of the zone or part. A user interface can display a representation of the three-dimensional object.