Design Enabler to Recognize Duplicate Geometries in CAD Assemblies

Abstract

This paper presents a method for identifying components in CAD assemblies that have surfaces that have complementary, duplicate surfaces. The method evaluates faces on two parts within a given proximity by measuring the approximate surface that has parallel and opposing surface normal between the faces. This method can be used for applications such as identifying potential lazy parts, a previously developed method used by an automotive OEM, and generating connectivity graphs for use in manufacturing assembly time estimation. The method considers threshold distance between parts, orientation angle between faces, and targeted similarity overlap between geometries. This paper presents the algorithm, a justification, and example test cases and scenarios that demonstrate its utility.