Solid models and rapid changes. (rapid prototyping technologies using computer-aided design)

• Published in: Machine design Vol. 65; no. 10; p. 86
• Main Author: Albert, David J
• Format: Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: Nashville Penton Media, Inc., Penton Business Media, Inc. and their subsidiaries 28.05.1993; Endeavor Business Media
• Subjects: Approximation; CAD; CAD-CAM systems; Computer aided design; Computer based modeling; Design; Design engineering; Designers; Engineering models; Engineering prototypes; Engineers; Innovations; Product development; Prototypes, Engineering; Rapid prototyping; Software; Solid modeling; Technological change; Technology application; United States > US
• ISSN: 0024-9114; 1944-9577

At a time when most suppliers of solid modelers are changing their underlying technology, improvements are making it tough to assess how specific solid modelers will work with rapid prototyping (RP) technologies. Some of the standard metrics used to evaluate the fit between RP and various modeling techiques are on their way out. Solids are also in transition, going from aids mainly for analysis to tools for design. The introduction of new solid modeling techniques, mainly parametric and variational, has pushed modeling full-force into the design process. Currently, computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing developers are in the midst of converting their systems to include parametric or variational modeling. Variational and parametric solid modelers are increasingly preferred for their ability to make rapid changes, but not all of these tools are equal. The whole process is more difficult if the modeler does not allow for the easy modification of the constraint system.