Abhishek Seth
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Virtual Reality Applications Center
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50010
James Oliver
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Virtual Reality Applications Center
Iowa State University
Ames , Iowa 50011
Judy M. Vance
Ph.D.
Fellow ASME
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Virtual Reality Applications Center
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa 50011-2160
Seth, A., Vance, J. M., Oliver, J. H., “Combining dynamic modeling with geometric constraint management to support low clearance virtual manual assembly tasks”, ASME Journal of Mechanical Design, in press 2010.
View the presentation here (PDF)
Abstract
This research presents a novel approach to virtual assembly that combines dynamic modeling with geometric constraint-based modeling to support low clearance manual assembly of CAD models. This is made possible by utilizing the Boundary Representation (B-Rep) solid model data available in most contemporary CAD representations, which enables a) accurate collision/physics calculations on exact model definitions, and b) access to geometric features. Application of geometric constraints during run-time aid the designer in final assembly of the virtual models. The feasibility of the approach is demonstrated using a pin and hole assembly example. Results demonstrate the method gives the user the ability to assemble parts without requiring extensive CAD preprocessing and without over constraining the user to arrive at predetermined final part orientations. Assembly is successful with diametral clearance as low as 0.0001 mm as measured between a 26 mm diameter hole and a pin.
Keywords: Virtual Reality, Virtual Prototyping, Human-Computer Interaction, Virtual Assembly, Constraint-Based Modeling, Physical Constraint Simulation
