A Separating Channel Decomposition Algorithm for Nonconvex Polygons With Application in Interference Detection

1989 ◽  
Vol 111 (2) ◽  
pp. 270-277 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. S. Ku ◽  
B. Ravani

An algorithm for efficient decomposition of interface channels between nonconvex polygons in a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) environment is presented. This algorithm forms the computational basis for the solution of several design automation problems. In this paper, the channel decomposition algorithm is presented and applied to the problem of interference detection between nonconvex polygons. The resulting interference detection algorithm does not require preprocessing of the data and uses a simple data structure. In a companion paper (Ku and Ravani, 1989), the rigid channel decomposition algorithm is applied to the problem of model-based rigid-body guidance in presence of geometric constraints.

Author(s):  
T. S. Ku ◽  
B. Ravani

Abstract An algorithm for efficient decomposition of interface channels between non-convex polygons in a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) environment is presented. This algorithm forms the computational basis for the solution of several design automation problems. In this paper, the channel decomposition algorithm is presented and applied to the problem of interference detection between non-convex polygons. The resulting interference detection algorithm does not require preprocessing of the data and uses a simple data structure. In a companion paper (Ku and Ravani 1988), the channel decomposition algorithm is applied to the problem of model-based rigid-body guidance in presence of geometric constraints.


Author(s):  
Sean M. Gelston ◽  
Debasish Dutta

Abstract Skeleton curves and surfaces have many applications in computer aided design and analysis. Construction of skeletons is an active area of research. We consider the inverse problem that of recovering boundary surfaces from given skeleton elements. The skeleton of any 3D object will, in general, consist of curves and surfaces. Therefore, any boundary reconstruction algorithm must systematically process the surfaces generated by the skeletal curves and the skeletal surfaces. In this paper (Part I) we present algorithms for reconstructing boundary surfaces corresponding to skeletal curves. Implemented examples are also included. In a companion paper (Part II) we consider skeletal elements that are surfaces.


Author(s):  
Sean M. Gelston ◽  
Debasish Dutta

Abstract Skeleton curves and surfaces have many applications in computer aided design and analysis and the construction of skeletons has been an active area of research. We consider the inverse problem that of recovering boundary surfaces from given skeleton elements. The skeleton of any 3D object will, in general, consist of curves and surfaces. Therefore, any boundary reconstruction algorithm must systematically process the surfaces generated by the skeletal curves and the skeletal surfaces. In a companion paper (Part I) we considered the reconstruction of boundaries corresponding to skeletal curves. In this paper (Part II) we consider the reconstruction of boundaries corresponding to skeletal elements that are surfaces. Implemented examples are also included.


Author(s):  
Maurizio Muzzupappa ◽  
Loris Barbieri ◽  
Fabio Bruno ◽  
Umberto Cugini

Topological optimization (TO) tools are today widely employed in several engineering fields (e.g., construction, aeronautics, aerospace, and automotive). The diffusion of these tools is due to their capacity to improve mechanical properties of products through a global optimization of the product in terms of weight, stiffness, strength, and cost. On the other hand, the adoption of TO tools still requires a sizeable organizational effort because, at present, these tools are mostly stand-alone and are not well integrated into the product development process (PDP). This paper presents an innovative methodology that supports designers and analysts in formalizing and transmitting design choices taken during project activities and in making the integration of TO tools in the PDP more efficient. The methodology clearly defines the roles, the activities, the data to exchange, and the software tools to be used in the process. Some custom computer-aided design automation tools have been implemented to improve the efficiency of the methodology. Moreover, this paper defines an original procedure to support the interpretation of the TO results.


Author(s):  
Karim A. Abdel-Malek ◽  
Burton Paul

Abstract When performing a computer simulation on analytical study of robot motions it is possible to unwittingly require a part of the robot (e.g. the hand) to interpenetrate (i.e. to interfere with) another part (e.g. an arm). It is therefore important to be able to predict in advance whether self interference or collision of any type occurs. This problem arises in fields of interest other than robotics, e.g. computer aided design and computer graphics. In this report, we have developed a computational method which predicts interference of moving objects in space. The method works for non-convex solids and multiply-connected solids (solids containing holes). The method checks the boundaries of surfaces enveloping solids for interference. Every pair of surfaces (one on each body) are examined for points of intersection. Points of interest are then studied to determine whether any two solids do interfere. The theory is developed for planar, ruled, and double curved surfaces.


2014 ◽  
Vol 136 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
James P. Schmiedeler ◽  
Barrett C. Clark ◽  
Edward C. Kinzel ◽  
Gordon R. Pennock

Geometric constraint programming (GCP) is an approach to synthesizing planar mechanisms in the sketching mode of commercial parametric computer-aided design software by imposing geometric constraints using the software's existing graphical user interface. GCP complements the accuracy of analytical methods with the intuition developed from graphical methods. Its applicability to motion generation, function generation, and path generation for finitely separated positions has been previously reported. By implementing existing, well-known theory, this technical brief demonstrates how GCP can be applied to kinematic synthesis for motion generation involving infinitesimally and multiply separated positions. For these cases, the graphically imposed geometric constraints alone will in general not provide a solution, so the designer must parametrically relate dimensions of entities within the graphical construction to achieve designs that automatically update when a defining parameter is altered. For three infinitesimally separated positions, the designer constructs an acceleration polygon to locate the inflection circle defined by the desired motion state. With the inflection circle in place, the designer can rapidly explore the design space using the graphical second Bobillier construction. For multiply separated position problems in which only two infinitesimally separated positions are considered, the designer constrains the instant center of the mechanism to be in the desired location. For example, four-bar linkages are designed using these techniques with three infinitesimally separated positions and two different combinations of four multiply separated positions. The ease of implementing the techniques may make synthesis for infinitesimally and multiply separated positions more accessible to mechanism designers and undergraduate students.


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