Patent ID: 7042451
Filing Date: 2006-05-09
Classification: G06K,G06T

Abstract:
1. A computer-based feature recognition method for use in recognizing instances of features in a solid model that are identical in shape to a user-defined feature that is defined using a fixed set of connected feature faces and base faces in the solid model, said method comprising the steps of: generating a predetermined set of attributes to be used in representing the user-defined feature; and using the feature faces and the base faces of the user-defined feature along with said set of attributes to produce a feature graph, comprising attributed nodes and arcs, which captures the shape of the user-defined feature; and using the solid model along with said set of attributes to produce a part graph comprising attributed nodes and arcs; using said attributes to determine a unique start node in the feature graph; and using matching between the feature graph and part graph, beginning from said start node, to recognize instances of features in the solid model that are identical in shape to the user-defined feature.