3D Model Sweep-Based Freeform Deformation via Intuitive Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sweep modeling techniques require extensive knowledge of 3-D modeling geometry and geometry manipulation, making it difficult for users to achieve desired results due to the need for explicit definition and manipulation of space curves.
Innovation Solution
The method employs intuitive deformation parameters such as bend angles, twist, scale, and sweep path length to perform freeform deformation of 3-D models by manipulating the surrounding space, allowing users to control the shape of sweep paths through user-friendly interface parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional sweep modeling techniques are used with explicit space curve definition, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring extensive geometric knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the complex geometric manipulation problem into a parameter-based control system. Instead of requiring users to manipulate space curves directly, the system uses deformation parameters (bend angles, twist angles, scale factors) that control the sweep path behavior. This parameter transformation resolves the contradiction by maintaining modeling precision through mathematical control while dramatically improving ease of operation through intuitive parameter adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces deformation parameters as an intermediary between the user and the complex geometric transformations. These parameters act as a mediator that translates simple user inputs (angle values, scale factors) into complex sweep path deformations, thereby resolving the contradiction by hiding the geometric complexity while preserving precise control capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If explicit space curve manipulation is required, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming geometric knowledge requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts complex geometric manipulation into simple parameter adjustment. By representing sweep path deformations through a small set of parameters (bend angles, twist angles, scale factors), the system achieves both high geometric control precision and fast modeling productivity. Users can rapidly iterate designs by adjusting parameters without performing complex geometric operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-computes the relationship between deformation parameters and sweep path geometry. By establishing this preliminary mathematical framework, the system enables users to directly obtain desired geometric results through parameter input without needing to understand or perform the underlying complex geometric computations, thereby improving productivity while maintaining precision.
3Ease of operation
If intuitive deformation parameters are used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to parameter management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential deformation characteristics from complex geometric transformations and represents them through a small set of key parameters (bend angles, twist angles, scale factors). This extraction simplifies the user interface and operation while the underlying system handles the complexity of transforming these parameters into full geometric deformations, thereby improving ease of operation without permanently increasing perceived device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation parameter system is designed to be universal, handling multiple types of sweep path deformations (bending, twisting, scaling) through a unified parameter framework. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex controls for different deformation types, improving ease of operation while consolidating system complexity into a manageable unified structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for sweep-based freeform deformation of 3-D models may employ a set of intuitive parameters to bend, twist and scale a 3-D model along any direction. The parameters may include a first bend angle, a second bend angle, a twist angle, a scale factor, and a length. Sweep paths may be fitted to an input 3-D model. Each sweep path may be deformed by manipulating one or more parameters for the sweep path. The shape of the 3-D space surrounding each sweep path is deformed according to the sweep path deformations. Deformations in the 3-D space are applied to the 3-D model to deform the model. This allows freeform deformation of the 3-D model by manipulating only a few intuitive parameters. In addition, the sweep path origin and weight functions for each of the parameters may be adjusted by the user.