Automated PMI Data Extraction from 3D CAD Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual conversion of textual dimension and tolerance data from 3D CAD models to inspection plans is tedious, error-prone, and requires specialized training and software, lacking integration with quality management systems.
Innovation Solution
Direct retrieval and transformation of Product and Manufacturing Information (PMI) data from 3D models into inspection characteristics within an enterprise resource planning system, eliminating the need for manual interaction and enabling automatic data transfer and visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual conversion of PMI data from 3D CAD models to inspection plans is performed, then data accuracy can be maintained through human review, but process time increases and error probability rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data conversion with automated computer-based transformation. The system automatically extracts PMI data from 3D CAD models and converts it to inspection plan formats, eliminating manual copying and reducing human error while significantly decreasing process time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary software system that acts as a bridge between CAD systems and quality management systems. This intermediary automatically transforms PMI data into inspection characteristics, enabling seamless data flow without manual intervention while maintaining data integrity through structured transformation rules.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized software and training are used for PMI data conversion, then data transformation accuracy improves, but system complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges PMI data extraction and transformation functions directly into the quality management system, eliminating the need for separate specialized conversion software. This integration consolidates multiple tools into a unified system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining transformation accuracy through built-in processing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service data transformation by automatically extracting PMI data from 3D CAD models and converting it to inspection plan formats without requiring specialized manual intervention. The automated processes handle data transformation independently, reducing the need for trained personnel while maintaining accuracy.
3Device complexity
If manual data entry is used for inspection plans, then system simplicity is maintained, but error probability increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary automated extraction and transformation of PMI data before inspection plan creation. By pre-processing the data from 3D CAD models and converting it to the required format, the system eliminates time-consuming manual data entry during plan creation, significantly improving productivity while keeping the interface simple for users.
4Productivity
If integrated automated inspection is implemented, then productivity and accuracy improve, but integration complexity with existing systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the inspection system with universal data transformation capabilities that can handle multiple CAD file formats and PMI data types through a single integrated interface. This multi-functionality allows the system to work with various existing systems without requiring separate integration solutions for each format, reducing overall integration complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method has operations including receiving a 3D computer aided design (CAD) file that contains a 3D model of a product and product management information (PMI) data, at an enterprise resource planning (ERP) hardware system having an executing integrated inspection application, the PMI data including data describing a characteristic of the product and a tolerance value for the characteristic, converting the 3D CAD file into a neutral 3D file preserving the PMI data, parsing the PMI data via the executing integrated inspection application to obtain lower and upper values of the characteristic of the product as a function of the tolerance value, storing the neutral 3D file, linking the neutral 3D file to the part in the ERP system, creating an inspection plan including an inspection characteristic linked to the part, transferring the PMI data to the inspection characteristic, and providing a view of the inspection characteristic showing the lower and upper values.