3D modeling systems, lecture topics:

terminology used in examining and comparing systems applying geometric modeling (especially solids) to engineering design introduction to solid concepts

3D models create analogous representations of an object.

Analogous implies similar, but different. Therefore, 3D models are very similar to the real world objects they are representing but not necessarily identical.

Model is an approximation of real object.

Term for the quality of approximation is faithfulness. Faithful model incorporates those attributes necessary to the design or to the analysis being performed. A model need not include all physical real world features to be faithful

Model database
As previously noted, the heart of a geometric model is the model database. The database can be considered as an organized form of the information which describes the model. Database information for solids divided into two general categories, geometric and topological.

Geometry
Geometric data relates to dimensional information, e.g.
the location of points in space the shape and size of geometric features.

Topology
Topology: refers to the connectivity of the elements which make up the model, e.g.
two faces intersect at an edge

Inclusion of topological data makes solid models computationally verifiable.

Two objects with the same topology but different geometry.

Data format
model data may be stored:
explicitly (evaluated data)
Complete mathematical entity definitions are stored in the database

or implicitly (unevaluated data)

Definitions not stored, but rather computed as needed For example, the curve defined by intersection of two surfaces or an edge computed for display, then discarded when not needed (recomputed at next display)

Data / Format
In practice, database not strictly evaluated or unevaluated but some combination

Primary vs. Secondary models

Systems typically maintain multiple data representations The data used by fundamental modeling operations is the primary model Other representations (which may or may not be solid) are referred to as secondary models

Secondary models
Secondary models derived from primary model for use is specific applications:
display, analysis (FEA), manufacturing, documentation (drawings), data exchange

Associativity
One form of associativity is the direct connection of primary to secondary models. Associativity can permit alteration of one model when another is modified
e.g. top-down associativity: alter primary, secondary documentation file changes

Secondary models are maintained to reduce regeneration times when models are required. Some modelers maintain a log of steps performed. This log may be considered a secondary model.

Associativity
An example of this would be the update of display information when a change to model geometry is made. This concept (associativity) also appears in the relationship between parent and child geometry and in the extraction of mechanical drawings from a solid model.

Model evaluation factors:

domain and expressive power uniqueness validity.

Domain and Expressive power

domain refers to the range of model geometries which may be generated by a particular modeler. some modeling system supply the user with broader domain expressive power: is the primary model exact or approximate representation?

Uniqueness
Concept of singularity between model and database Two types of uniqueness may be considered.
Interpretation: Can the database represent more than one object. Expression: Can more than one database represent the same object?

Validity
whether or not the model represents an object which can exist in the real world. many solid modeling systems include checks of model validity in their architecture. validity checks often involve topological checks

Manifold vs. Non-manifold geometry

Mathematically manifold geometry means every point on a surface has neighborhood (infinitesimal sphere) around it that can be deformed onto a locally planar surface. More simply: manifold geometry rules out objects which are not physically realizable such as those with features joined along a single edge or vertex.

Non-manifold geometry

Manifolds in solid modeling

Class of manifolds comprises real world, manufacturable objects. When computationally modeling solids, is possible to create non-manifolds.
One case would be a self-intersecting model.

Software may perform diagnostic checks but user should be aware of what non-manifold geometry is.

Solid Modeling
Just as a set of 2D lines and curves does not need to describe the boundary of a closed area, a collection of 3D surfaces and planes does not necessarily bound a closed volume.

Solid Modeling
Many engineering applications of geometric modeling require the ability to distinguish between the inside, outside and surface of an object. Several techniques for the computerized modeling of solid geometries exist and are in use today. The various techniques have different advantages disadvantages and uses.

Solid Modeling
What properties are considered important for of an effective solid modeling system
Bounded - the boundary must limit and contain the interior of the solid. Finite - Finite in size, model can be defined by a limited set of information Homogeneously 3-dimensional or more simply, no dangling faces or edges, boundary must always be in contact with the interior