Solid Modeling Systems to Support Automated Reasoning

Today, most solid modeling systems work well to precisely define the physical dimensions and properties of object's, but do not support automated reasoning. The capability to reason about model characteristics such as topology, tolerances, and complexity is important for developing integrated design and advanced manufacturing applications. Existing systems are oriented toward representing the graphical and geometric aspects of a model. In contrast, future applications require part models to also contain specific knowledge relevant to each phase of the product lifecycle. No phase happens in isolation, each affects the others. Therefore, the engineer's intent and information specific to each phase of a product's life must be maintained for the life of the product model. In current systems, reasoning capabaility is oftentimes missing or is elementary and not tightly integrated with the product model. We propose developing extensions to a commercial solid modeling toolkit that will enable robust reasoning mechanisms to be applied to the model. By combining object oriented programming methods with artificial intelligence techniques we can embed reasoning capabilities directly within the model. Applications using the proposed technology will provide benefits including lower pre-production and manufacturing costs, shorter product cycles, and tighter integration of design, analysis, and manufacturing processes. ANTICIPATED BENEFIT: A solid modeling technology with integrated reasoning could be used as core technology for advanced design and manufacturing automation. It could be utilized as component technology or as a basis for standalone or embedded applications.