Feature Construction

Introduction to Parametric Feature Based Solid Modeling (Lecture #7)

Traditional CAD modeler creates geometry a specified size (A). In a constraint-based modeler, the geometric relationships are coded directly into the model with parameters. (B & C)

Feature Construction
Like dimensions, parameters can be associated with geometric features such as lines, curves, and planes. Unlike dimensions, parameters do not have to represent a single static value. It is important to remember that parameters are always related back to geometric features. Likewise, geometric relationships such as parallelism are made between features such as lines or planes.

Feature Construction
Modeling Process 1. 2-D skecth profile (A) 2. Assign enough parameters to fully define size & shape (B)

Feature Construction
Modeling Process 3. Alter one or more of th parametric values (C) 4. Extrued or sweep the 2-D profile into 3-D part (D)

The Effect of Design Intent on Model Changes

The part on the left intends to have the bole fixed at an offset of 10 from the left edge whereas the part on the right intends to have the hole centered. The differences in the design intent can be seen when the overall width of the part is altered.

Feature ConstructionTechniques
Computer-generated objects are typically made up of features. Most modern CAD software employs a methodology know as feature-based modeling. The features available in the software are usually designed to relate to how engineers think in their design and manufacturing work. Most software packages such as Mechanical Desktop and Pro/E have predefined features that you use to build your objects.

Feature-based Modelng
An important advancement in 3-D solids modeling is the introduction of feature-based modeling. Like constraint-based modeling, feature-based modeling is an at-tempt to make modeling a more efficient process more in tune with how designers and engineers actually work.

Feature-based Modelng
Feature modeling interface higher level interface would permit specification of entities in terms of geometric and dimensional constraints permit definition of features directly by user, with appropriate geometric shape created within solid modeling engine solid modeling engine: a toolkit of modeling subroutines called by software

Relationship of Feature-Based Interface to Geometric Modeler

User Input

FeatureBased Interface

Solid Modelling Engine : (B-rep or CSG)

Modeling Systems

Feature-based Modelng
One of the newest developments in solid modeling. Addresses the design concerns previously noted. Represents an attempt to tighten the relationship between the model and the manufacturing processes required to produce the component.

Feature-based Modelng
Geometry is defined in terms of real world features as opposed to abstract geometric entities. For example: work with holes as opposed to cylinders cuts and extrusions rather than blocks and wedges.

Feature-based Modelng
Parts are represented in terms of higher level entities (features) that have engineering meaning. Models contain not just basic geometric and topological data (as all solid models will), but also higher level information.

Feature-based Modelng
Features capture design intent Included information defines how the features behaves in editing for example, a through hole Features store non-graphic information for use in: 2D drawing creation, FEA, CNC and kinematic analysis

What is a variational profile?

A variational profile is a set of plane curves and lines to which you can assign geometrical and dimensional constraints and which you can use to create solids or to add features to existing solids. Variational profiles are the basic components of parametric structure.

What is a variational profile?

You can use profiles to create solids and features by applying a linear sweep or
revolving the profile. In the case of a feature, the profile is used either to add material to or remove material from a solid.

Rules for building a profile

You can create a profile from any set of curves that meet the following conditions:

The curves must be co-planar and be drawn on the Work Plane. The curves can form an open or closed profile and may contain islands, but not islands within islands.

Shape Features
Created through: sweeping and blending (lofting) of 2D profiles features used to add material (protrusions) or remove (depressions, cuts, etc.) Profiles may defined as constrained sketch geometry (constraint-based systems) Type Passages

Classifying Shape Features

Description subtracted volumes that intersect the pre-existing shape at both ends subtracted volumes that intersect the pre-existing shape at one end subtracted volumes completely enclosed by material added volumes that intersect the pre-esixting shape at one end added volumes that intersect the pre-existing shape at both ends

Depressions Voids Protrusions Connector

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Hard-coded features
have a characteristic topology have a generic geometry user input for specific properties such as - diameter, depth, entity reference (mounting face) examples holes, slots, fillets, rounds

Hard-coded features
Examples of manufactured features created through special feature-based dialog boxes include the following: Blind holes Counterbores and countersinks Slots Bosses

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Hard-coded features
The variables entered through the dialog box largely define the shape and size. Once these variables of the feature are defined, the location is defined. By convention, features usually dont constitute an entire part.

Reference features
Not geometric features Used for orientation and location of features within model Examples are: datum planes datum axes Also include defined 2D sketch planes

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Reference features
The feature is typically located somewhere on a base part. A feature such as a blind hole is located by indicating its orientation to a face and distance from two edges.

Base feature
First feature created is the base feature The base feature: provides the initial reference for all subsequent features, regardless of type may be reference feature(s) may be a stand-alone shape feature

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Relation to traditional design

During the design process of a component, more attention is given to form and topology than dimensional precision in the conceptual phase. In a feature-based which supports constraints, profiles are sketched to capture this design intent.

The Features of Feature-based Modeling

Feature-based modeling refers to the construction of geometries as a combination of form features. The designer specifies features in engineering terms such as holes, slots, or bosses rather than geometric terms such as circles or boxes.

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The Features of Feature-based Modeling

Features can also store nongraphic information as well. This information can be used in activities such as drafting, NC, finite-element analysis, and kinematic analysis. Furthermore, feature-based packages frequently record the geometric construction and modification sequences used in building the model.

The Features of Feature-based Modeling

Old method: Define slot as Boolean difference between the part and space. The problem: Lengthening the part geometry turns the slot into a blind hole. Feature method: Through-hole feature understands that it must pass through the part, no matter how the part changes.

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Feature-Based Modelling
Parts modelled by adding features to a base part Features represent manufacturing operations holes, ribs, fillets, chamfers, slots, pockets, etc. Material can be added or subtracted, similar to CSG Features are not limited to simple primitives, and can be created by extrusion, sweeping, revolving, etc. A history tree is created, similar to a CSG boolean tree

Feature-Based Modelling

Base, Boss, and Cut Extrude, Revolve, Sweep, and Loft Fillet/Round, Chamfer, and Draft Hole - Simple and Hole Wizard Scale

Shell Rib Dome Shape Pattern and Mirror Surfaces

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Feature-Based Modelling
The designer would simply define a part in terms of fundamental manufacturing features, such as chamfers, through slots, blind slots, etc. Very high level, but can complicate additions of unanticipated features, like a ridge in a car hood.

Feature-Based Modelling
Advantages, very intuitive and easy to use can simplify other aspects of CIM (eg. If a standard feature is used there will be a standard process plan to make that feature). emphasizes the use of standard components.

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Disadvantages, restrictive when dealing with nonstandard features interaction of features can be hard to estimate a complete set of all possible features would be very large There are two levels of features commonly used in these systems, micro macro

Feature-Based Modelling

Feature-Based Modelling
A set of prismatic features might be,
Macro Features box External Features linear chamfer linear round linear v slot linear slot linear round slot linear t-slot Internal Features rectangular pocket linear fillet

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Feature-Based Modelling A set of standard features for rotational parts might be,
Macro Features
cylinder taper

Internal Features
internal taper internal slot internal tapered radial slot internal round slot countersink internal spline woodruff keyseat

Feature Catalogs

External Features
rotational fillet thread square neck chamfer shoulder external radius key seat spline flat thread

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Feature Catalogs

Using Feature Catalog

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Part Families

Features overview Extrude Boss/Cut solid

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Combining Objects
To learn how features are used to create objects, it is important for you to first understand how two objects combine to form a third object. Basically, a cutting, a joining, or an intersecting operation combines objects. Notice that these two objects overlap each other. In other words, they share a common volume.

Combining Objects
Basic Concepts of Combining Parts To combine two parts, you first identify which one you want to use as the base part and make it active. Then you position the toolbody part on the base part using MOVE, ROTATE, or assembly constraints.

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Combining Objects
Basic Concepts of Combining Parts You can combine as many toolbodies with a base part as you like, but the base part and toolbody must be instances of different pars. External parts cannot be used to create a complex part.

Combining Objects
Combining Objects with Relations When you are combining objects by cutting, joining, or intersecting them, you need to establish relationships between the two parts being combined in order to simplify the modification of the part at a later date or to create parts to exact size or shape specifications.

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Combining Objects
Combining Objects with Relations These relationships are similar to constraints. when you modify the object at a later point in time, the relationships constrain the relative locations of the parts that make up the final object.

Combining Objects
Modifying the Features of an Object The major advantages of feature-based modeling is your ability to change the size of individual features on an object at any time. You can define the basic shape that your final object will have and then modify the individual sizes of the features that make up the object.

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Combining Objects
Modifying the Features of an Object These modifications usually consist of modifying the order of construction for the features included in your object or deleting the features themselves from the object

Basic Concepts of Creating Parts

In general you may follow this process to developed a part design: Look at the whole part & decide how it can be broken down into simple shapes. Identify the most simple element to use as your base feature. Decide the order for creating additional features. Determine the methods for creating the features. As you build individual features, review & adjust your ideas about how the features work together. As you adjust your design strategy, you can revise the features you created earlier.

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Features overview

Cut the solid

Features overview

Corner Fillets

Sheet metal

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Features overview

Features overview

Sweep

Face Blend Fillet

Loft

Extrude with center line

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Features
Slot Hole

History Tree
Final Part Increasing part complexity Part2 Part1
Countersink

Counterbore

Part3 Hole Fillets Slot

Shell

Base

Features added

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Modifying Parts
The part is created from the history tree Features can be added, deleted and reordered Feature dimensions can be changed Feature parameters can be changed eg. From protrusion to cutout

Modifying Parts

Draft

Chamfer

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Modifying Parts
Pattern

Constraint-based systems

Shell

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What are Constraints ?

The solid model stores more than just the final geometry it stores the design intent rules that govern what will happen when geometry changes. This makes it easy to make flexible design changes to part models.

What are Constraints ?

These rules are described as constraints on wireframe geometry used to extrude and revolve pans, and as relations when parts are cut, joined, or intersected. There are two major types of constraint-based modeling systems available on the market today: variational geometry and parametric modeling.

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Variational Geometry
With variational geometry, constraints are applied to the 2-D shape in terms of degrees of freedom. A degree of freedom exists if there is currently no constraint applied to control a specific feature of the geometry of your sketch.

Variational Geometry
This concept is best described by a simple example. Start with a simple 4-sided polygon, defined by 4 points, 1 through 4, as shown below. What do we want to happen if point 3 is translated to the right?

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Uses of Variational Geometry

How Many Constraints do You Need? Some mathematically-inclined readers may have a question at this point about how many constraints can be applied to a section. Normally, to solve a set of simultaneous equations, the number of equations must equal the number of unknowns.

Uses of Variational Geometry

What happens if fewer than this number are applied, and a change is made to a value? There could be more than one possible solution. If you were using a general-purpose symbolic math package, it might not let you try to solve a set of equations where there were more unknowns than there were equations. The solver used to solve variational geometry is not just a simple simultaneous-equation solver. It looks at the geometry, and attempts to make the minimum change if more than one solution is possible.

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Constraint-based systems
Constraint-based modeling is a technique that can help the CAD operator manage the model modification process. In a constraint-based modeler, describing the relationship of geometric elements with equations and logical relationships creates a part.

Constraint-based systems
User constrains geometry based on Design Intent Design variations can be generated by changing a few key dimensions Geometry is automatically regenerated based on constraints

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Constraint-based systems
Concept first developed in 1970s First commercial system in 1988 Most current professional level feature-based modelers use constraint-based techniques to help define features. (through the creation of profiles)

Constraint-based systems
2D profile geometry not explicitly defined, but rather driven by the constraints. Constraints stored internally as equations. Equations are solved to resolve the sketch geometry.

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Solving constraint equations

Set of constraint equations solved to define a unique solution profile. Equations may be solved sequentially referred to as parametric system results of each previous solution used in next Equations may be solved simultaneously referred to as variational system

Constraint-based systems
Constraint-based systems may be parametric (sequential evaluation of constraints) Variational (simultaneous evaluation of constraints) Many systems use a combination of both techniques

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Constraint-based systems
Constraints also used to control: the relationships between features on the same component the relationships between features on the different components (in separate files) the relationships between components in an assembly

Types of Constraint
Constraints enable you to preserve the original design intent even as changes are made to the model you have created. Constraints allow for a great deal of flexibility in the design, but it is important that you apply the constraints properly so that the integrity of the design is maintained.

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Types of Constraint
Constraint Types Ground constraints Dimensional constraints Geometric constraints

Types of Constraint
Ground constraints When you constrain your sketch, you establish relationships that must be maintained as modifications are made to its geometry. Ground constraints are added to your sketch to define which of the pair of lines involved is the movable line.

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Types of Constraint
Ground constraints Vertical Horizontal Angular X,Y
Vertical Horizontal

Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Dimensional constraints specify the length, radius, or rotation angle of the geometric ele-ments in your sketch. Geometric constraints force the profile to conform to a specific shape. Dimensional constraints, on the other hand, add the parametric characteristic to the profile. You can change a dimension at any time and its new value will be immediately reflected in the design.

(X,Y) Location Angular

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Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Specified as dimensions e.g. linear, radial, angular, diametric Dimensional constraints also stored as equations in database

Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Horizontal dimension Vertical dimension Linear dimension Angular dimension Radial dimension

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Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Linear This constraint is used to define the linear distance between two lines between a line and a point, or between two points. Angular

Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Angular dimensions are used to define the angle between two lines on your sketch.

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Types of Constraint
Dimensional constraints Diametral & Radial Diametral constraints are used to control the diameter of any circles on your sketch. Radial dimensions control the radius of any arcs on your sketch.

Types of Constraint
Method of Entry & Display of Dimension Values Dimensions can be shown and entered as either numeric constants or as equations.
d1=2

Use numeric values when the size of an object is not related to another object and use an equation when the size of an object is directly related to another object.

d0=1

d4=4

d3=d4/2

d2=(d4-d3)/2

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Types of Constraint
Geometric constraints Size and position of specified 2D geometry controlled by geometric relationships with other entities. May be implied (system created) or applied (user created), depending upon software.

Types of Constraint
Geometric constraints Geometric constraints control the shape of the profile. When you profile your sketch, the sketch is analyzed and geometric constraints are added to suit the sketch. Geometric constraints are used to define the shape of your 2-D geometry.

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Types of Constraint
Geometric constraints Examples of geometric constraints: parallelism, equal length/angle, co-linearity, perpendicularity... concentric arcs/circles, horizontal, vertical, parallel, tangent

Types of Constraint
Gemetric constraints Parallel Perpendicular Collinear Coincident Tangent Horizontal Vertical Project Join Xvalue Yvalue Radius

Parallel Perpendicular

Coincident Colinear Tangent

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Types of Constraint

Constraint-based systems
Applying Constraints to 3D Geometry It is possible sketch directly on a surface of a 3D object. When constraining 2-D geometry on 3-D objects, remember to add the dimensions before extruding to cut-out or to protrude because constraints cannot be added as a portion of the definition of the 3-D part.

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Constraint-based systems
A typical constraint-based system includes: Sketcher Constraint engine Feature manager Solid modeling system 2D input system

Sketcher
creation of 2D entities (lines, arcs, splines) Sketch geometry used for feature construction through sweeping and lofting techniques and in some hard-coded features Includes link to constraint engine

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Sketcher
Sketch geometry constrained geometrically and dimensionally Sketcher... allows creation of dimensional constraints controls implied geometric constraints may allow user control of geometric constraints (add or remove)

Constraint Engine
Provides for creation and modification of: dimensional relationships in sketches dimensional relationships between features all geometric constraints Provides for resolution of constraint equations

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Constraint Engine
(Factors related to its usefulness) dimension types recognized (angular, linear, etc.) types and level of geometric constraints (concentric, collinear, etc.) freedom to postpone dimensioning work with under constrained geometry

Constraint Engine
(Factors related to its usefulness) dealing with parent/child relationships external compatibility (importation/exportation) configuration of variables symbolic name associated. with value, parameter associated. with unrelated geometry, etc.

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Constraint Engine
(Factors related to its usefulness) User may choose whether implied constraint apply to all or part of the geometry Incorrect constraints automatically flagged (in fully constrained approach)

Constraint Engine
(Factors related to its usefulness) Ability to undo or abort constraint operation Over or under constrained situation allowed temporarily Implied constraints may be overridden

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Constraint Engine
(Factors related to its usefulness) Large number of hard-coded features Feature editing which permits complete redefinition at later time Feature re-ordering capability Patterning and instancing of features

Feature Manager
Allows insertion of hard-coded , shape and reference features. Also special user-defined features user-defined features may be created, stored, and inserted

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Feature Manager
Supports feature editing processes Typically supports:
feature suppression (from display and editing) control of feature construction order control of feature references (parent/child)

Model creation order

order dependent process parent/child relations based upon order of creation only able to reference previously defined features may be able to re-order model in feature manager

Flags violation of feature intent

e.g. A blind hole becomes a through hole because of a transaction subsequent to its insertion

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 dependency exists between created feature (child) and parent: e.g.

other features used to locate it insertion features mounting feature: surface or sketch plane source features

Parent/Child relationship

Desired Characteristics of Modeler

examine what is: desirable useful in feature-based, constraint-based system

patterns and part families dependency means process of editing parent feature requires considering child features of that parent

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Example

Constraint-based systems
D5

Constraint-based systems
Design Intent The part should be twice as long as it is wide The hole should be centred in both directions

D1 D2 D4 D3

The hole diameter should be 50mm

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Parametric Modelling
Parametric modeling is a subset of variational geometry. Parametric modeling allows for a flexible design in much the same way that variational modeling does. That is, you are able to add constraints to your sketch to control how the geometry will behave as modifications are made. In general, you need to have a fully constrained shape before you can use parametric modeling to create a 3-D solid.

Parametric & Variational Modelling

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Parametric & Variational Modelling

Parametric modelling constraints defined sequentially each constraint calculated based on previously defined constraints order of constraint specification is important Variational modelling constraints solved simultaneously order of constraint specification doesnt matter

Parametric & Variational Modelling

Parametric definition User specifies dimension D1, other dimensions calculated sequentially

D1 = x D2 = D1 / 2 D3 = 2 D1 D4 = D3 / 2 D5 = 50

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Parametric & Variational Modelling

Variation definition

Modelling Approach
Sketch approximate geometry Generate solids and features Add constraints and dimensions afterwards

Solve system of simultaneous equations:

D5 50 = 0 D1 2 D2 = 0 2 D1 D3 = 0 D3 2 D4 = 0 D1 x = 0

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Smart Skectching
Most CAD systems use smart sketching tools Design intent is inferred, and constraints added automatically For example, two lines that are nearly perpendicular snap perpendicular, with a constraint

Assembly Modelling

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Assembly Modelling
Many modelers have been used to create models of single components. Previous design procedure was to assembly the actual components or prototype later in the design cycle. Physical distance between design teams in global corporations and the need for electronic transfer fueled the need for computer-based assemblies.

Assembly Modelling
An assembly consists of two or more parts located relative to each other in space Normally the relative motion is constrained Most assemblies are fully constrained Mechanisms are partially constrained

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Assembly Modelling
Automotive and aerospace industries among the first to make extensive used of assembly modeling.

Assembly Modelling
Provides a logical structure for grouping and organizing components into assemblies. Structure permits: identification of components control of associated data (e.g. BOM) control of relationships between components and sub-assemblies

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Assembly Modelling
Most assembly modelers work by creating a file which includes only: pointers to the individual components used the constraints used to position the components with respect to one another multiply occurrences of the same component are handled by instancing

Assembly Modelling
Relationship data includes Constraint information orientation and location of components with respect to one another variational relationship between features of different parts

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Assembly Modelling
Relationship data includes ... Instancing information multiple occurrences of the same component Tolerance and fit information part interference and clearance

Assembly Modelling
Inter-part dimensions provide control when an assembly depends upon key dimensions (e.g. hole patterns) Provides a mechanism for propagating a design change though out all components of an assembly without modifying each component individually.

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Assembly Model Use

Creation of orthographic assembly drawings. Creation of exploded assemblies. Facilitate packaging Perform interference and clearance checks.

Assembly Modelling
Most modern feature-based, constraintbased systems have assembly capabilities. In addition to the Sketcher, Constraint Engine and Feature Manager, they include an Assembly Manager

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Assembly Manager
Permits creation of: sub-assemblies from parts assemblies from sub-assemblies and parts Controls relative placement of parts/subassemblies (constraints) Controls regeneration of assemblies/subassemblies after modification

Part/Sub-assembly Placement
Examples of constraints applied to assemble components alignment
surfaces, axes with offset distances

mating
surfaces, edges

coincidence
points, edges

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Simplified Representation
Large assembly models can serious stain the processor capabilities of the hardware system being used. In these cases, many assembly modelers provide means for simplifying the assembly. The use of instancing helps reduce complexity.

Simplified Representation
Another technique used is aggromeration. Grouping components and sub-assemblies into a single static definition. Many systems also support the use of simplified representations. complexities such as fillets/rounds removed representation may simply be the envelope of the part with mating features.

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Applications of Assembly Models

Interference checking Visualization rendered exploded Animation Mechanism analysis

Assembly Example

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Exploded Assembly

Assembly Hierarchy
The assembly hierarchy defines relationships of parts to each other There can be multiple levels of subassemblies

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Assembly Hierarchy Example

Pump Assembly Link assembly offset link offset link Piping assembly well casing well seal Handle assembly ... subassembly Multiple instances

Another View
Assembly

Subassemblies

Parts

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Positioning Parts in an Assembly

Parts can be positioned by translating and rotating them into the right locations This requires careful measurement of relative locations, knowledge of coordinate systems, and entry of numerical values If position or dimensions of one part change, this has to be redone

Example
Assembly Position & orientation

Subassemblies

Parts

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Using Assembly Constraints

Constraints can be used to create permanent relationships between parts In I-DEAS, these use the same commands as 2D constraints Typical constraints: two faces meet axes coincident two faces parallel at fixed distance etc.

Example
Assembly Constraints Subassemblies

Parts

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Assembly Constraints Mating

Coincidence Concentric

Animations and Motion

You then submit the mechanism to the embedded ADAMS simulation engine, so it can determine how the mechanism will perform and behave. You can view the results of the simulation as an animation showing the motion of your mechanism or as numeric output.

Parallel

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Motion Type
Constant Displacement Constant Velocity Constant Acceleration Motion Expression

Mechanism Design
A mechanism is an assembly that allows relative motion between parts The mechanism consists of links connected by joints Types of joints: rotational sliding spherical cylindrical screw

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Mechanism
Joints Joint

The following table shows the joints supported by Dynamic Designer (ADAMS) with the translational and rotational degrees of freedom that they constrain. Translational DOF 3 2 2 3 3 .5 1 3 2 2 Rotational Total DOF DOF Constrained 2 3 2 0 1 .5 2 3 0 0 5 5 4 3 4 1 3 6 2 2

Mechanism
Joints

Revolute Joint

Translational Joint

Revolute Translational Cylindrical Spherical Universal Screw Planar Fixed Contact Constraints: Point-curve Curve-curve

Spherical Joint

Cylindrical Joint

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Mechanism

Constraints and Joints

Curve/Curve Constraint

Mechanism

Constraints and Joints Point/Curve Constraint

Screw Joint Universal Joint Planar Joint Fixed Joint

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User Interface of Dynamic Designer

Browser Motion Menu

The Browser Tree contains branches that will be called nodes.

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Mechanism Analysis
I-DEAS allows the mechanism to be driven by defining an input motion for one of the links The other links move based on the kinematics I-DEAS can calculate reaction forces based on gravity and applied forces

Dynamic Analysis
More advanced software can model and analyse complete dynamics Applications: vehicle dynamics suspension analysis biomechanics robotics

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A Simple Example: Pendulum

Dynamic analysis software will generate the motion by solving the equations of motion

Other Examples:

Dynamic analysis software will generate the motion by solving the equations of motion

Radial Piston Air Motor

Motorcycle

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Other Examples:
Dynamic analysis software will generate the motion by solving the equations of motion

Introduction to Parametric Feature Based Solid Modeling

Questions : 1. List and describe five types of geometric contraints used during the sketch contructivr process of a parametric design package. Explain what is meant by the parent-child relationship that exists between parametric features. Describe feature-based modelling and contstraint-based modelling.

2.

3. Radial Piston Air Motor Piston rod

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