3D clipping algorithm for feature mapping across domains
This paper describes an algorithm based on 3D clipping for mapping feature models across domains. The problem is motivated by the need to identify feature models corresponding to different domains. Feature mapping (also referred to as feature conversion) involves obtaining a feature model in one domain given a feature model in another. This is in contrast to feature extraction which works from the boundary representation of the part. Most techniques for feature mapping have focused on obtaining negative feature models only. We propose an algorithm that can convert a feature model with mixed features (both positive and negative) to a feature model containing either only positive or only negative features. The input to the algorithm is a feature model in one domain. The algorithm for mapping this model to another feature model is based on classification of faces of features in the model and 3D clipping. 3D clipping refers to the splitting of a solid by a surface. The feature mapping process involves three major steps. In the first step, faces forming the features in the input model are classified with respect to one another. The spatial arrangement of faces is used next to derive the dependency relationship amongst features in the input model and a Feature Relationship Graph (FRG) is constructed. In the second step, using the FRG, features are clustered and interactions between features (if any) are resolved. In the final step, the 3D clipping algorithm is used to determine the volumes corresponding to the features in the target domain. These volumes are then classified to identify the features for obtaining the feature model in the target domain. Multiple feature sets (where possible) can be obtained by varying the sequence of faces used for clipping. Results of implementation are presented.
3d clipping feature mapping feature conversion concurrent engineering