Smart Nodes for 3D Model Metadata Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CAD programs are limited in assigning metadata to complex design elements in 3D models, as they require faithful reproduction of physical objects and use generic, standardized metadata fields that do not accommodate unique characteristics of complex design elements.
Innovation Solution
The use of simple geometric shapes as smart nodes in a virtual model, which are customizable and can be associated with various metadata, replacing physical pins scanned from a tangible model, allowing for quick creation and customization of virtual design elements with complex infrastructure information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional CAD programs use faithful reproduction of physical objects in 3D models, then the model accuracy is improved, but the complexity of creating and managing the model increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple geometric shapes (spheres, cylinders, boxes) as standardized proxies to represent complex physical objects in the 3D model. Instead of faithfully reproducing each physical object's detailed geometry, the system creates simplified geometric copies that capture the essential spatial information and metadata, significantly reducing modeling complexity while maintaining model utility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by storing detailed object information in metadata fields rather than in the geometric model itself. The 3D model contains only simplified geometry with parameters like position, size, and basic shape, while complex attributes (object type, infrastructure requirements, design characteristics) are stored as separable metadata parameters that can be easily edited and managed
2Ease of operation
If conventional CAD programs use standardized metadata fields, then the ease of data management is improved, but the ability to capture unique characteristics of complex design elements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal metadata structure that can accommodate both standardized building elements and complex custom design elements. The metadata fields are designed to be universally applicable across different object types while allowing custom fields to be added for specialized characteristics, enabling the same system to handle everything from simple walls to complex animated characters with unique infrastructure requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The metadata system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable rather than static. Users can add, remove, and customize metadata fields based on the specific requirements of different design elements. The system allows metadata schemas to evolve during the design process, accommodating new object types and characteristics without requiring complete system redesign
3Loss of information
If detailed infrastructure information is integrated into the 3D model, then the information completeness is improved, but the model complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the model information into two distinct layers: a simplified geometric 3D model layer containing only spatial information (position, orientation, basic dimensions), and a separate metadata layer containing detailed infrastructure information. This segmentation allows the 3D model to remain computationally simple while the metadata layer stores comprehensive object characteristics, infrastructure requirements, and design parameters that can be accessed independently
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for creating physical and virtual design models. Embodiments of the invention provide methods for creating physical design models and rendering the physical design models as virtual models in design programs. Virtual indicia (smart nodes) provided by embodiments of the invention provide customizable virtual representations of modeled physical design elements of tangible models and can have metadata associated therewith, allowing attribution of any of a wide variety of design characteristics to the smart nodes.