Autodesk has been granted a patent for a method that automatically converts generative designs into editable, watertight B-Rep models. The method involves creating smooth surfaces for areas not coinciding with input solids, ensuring gap-free contact curves between modified surfaces and input solids. GlobalData’s report on Autodesk gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Autodesk, AI assisted CAD was a key innovation area identified from patents. Autodesk's grant share as of January 2024 was 65%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Automatic method for converting generative design into editable b-rep
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11886165B2) discloses a method for computer-aided design that involves obtaining a three-dimensional model of an object to be manufactured, partitioning the model, constructing editable smooth surfaces, modifying boundaries, and combining surfaces to form a watertight model. The method allows for globally smooth free-form surface editing and ensures gap-free contact curves between modified surfaces and input solids. Various techniques such as volumetric mesh and level set methods are employed in the generative design process, with the polygon mesh being partitioned based on generative design information to maintain accuracy. The method also includes operations for relaxing boundary shapes, adding regularity constraints, and adjusting safety tolerance values to ensure homeomorphism of contact curves.
Furthermore, the patent also covers a system comprising a non-transitory storage medium with instructions for a computer-aided design program and data processing apparatus to execute the method. The system enables the generation of toolpath specifications for additive or subtractive manufacturing machines from the three-dimensional model, facilitating the manufacturing of physical structures corresponding to the object. The system incorporates various operations for partitioning the polygon mesh, constructing editable smooth surfaces, modifying boundaries, and addressing gaps between input solids. Additionally, the system allows for the identification and blending of gap-free contact curves to ensure tangent continuity between surfaces. Overall, the patented method and system offer advanced capabilities for designing and manufacturing complex objects with precision and efficiency using computer-aided design technology.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
