Polyline Cable Modeling for Interactive Manufacturing Resource Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for simulating flexible cables in manufacturing processes are computationally intensive and inadequate for interactive and iterative simulations, failing to accurately depict the dynamic behavior of cables during kinematic motions and obstacle interactions.
Innovation Solution
A polyline model is used to simulate flexible cables, incorporating point masses, zero mass spheres, elasticity, and torsional stiffness, allowing for interactive and efficient simulation of cable dynamics and obstacle interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional simulation methods are used for flexible cables, then simulation accuracy is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is divided into multiple discrete segments or elements along its length, with each segment having defined mechanical properties. This segmentation allows the complex continuous cable behavior to be approximated through discrete computational elements, reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining simulation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the continuous cable model into a discrete parameter-based model where cable behavior is described through defined parameters such as segment length, mass distribution, stiffness coefficients, and damping factors. This parameterization enables efficient computation while preserving essential cable dynamics.
2Reliability
If detailed cable modeling is implemented, then simulation realism is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable model incorporates dynamic properties such as mass distribution, stiffness, and damping that allow realistic cable behavior under varying conditions. These dynamic parameters enable the simulation to adapt cable response based on loading conditions, motion speeds, and environmental factors without requiring excessive computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical cable simulations with an equivalent mathematical model that uses force balances, moment equations, and energy principles. This substitution maintains physical realism while significantly reducing computational processing time through analytical solutions rather than iterative mechanical simulations.
3Ease of operation
If interactive simulation is enabled, then user experience is improved, but computational load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation uses periodic time-stepping integration where cable states are updated at discrete time intervals rather than continuously. This periodic computation approach enables interactive user experience with real-time feedback while maintaining manageable computational load through efficient time-marching algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or digital twin of the physical cable system that can be manipulated and simulated independently. This virtual model allows interactive exploration of different scenarios, configurations, and operating conditions without affecting the physical system, reducing computational load through efficient virtual representations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The polyline model provides computationally efficient and realistic simulation of cable behavior, enabling interactive user experience and iterative optimization of manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
For each point of the collection of points, a point mass is associated with the point, a zero mass sphere is associated with the point, and an elasticity and torsional stiffness is assigned between the point and any adjacent point(s)
Implementation Method 2
For each point of the collection of points, a point mass is associated with the point
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments simulate a manufacturing resource including a cable by creating a polyline model of the cable that includes a collection of points. For each point, there is an associated point mass and zero mass sphere, and an assigned elasticity and torsional stiffness between the point and adjacent points. Position and orientation of a start point and an end point of the points is defined based upon position in three dimensional (3D) space of a manufacturing resource. In turn, a simulation of the cable for a time step is performed by computing forces on each point using: (i) the associated point mass, (ii) the associated zero mass sphere, (iii) the assigned elasticity and torsional stiffness between the point and adjacent points, and (iv) the defined position and orientation of the start point and end point. Performing the simulation determines position in 3D space of each point based on the computed forces.