Database support for solid modeling

Geometric solid modeling plays one of the most important roles in CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) activities. In order that geometric solid modeling functions sufficiently in the CAE environment, an EDBMS (Engineering Database Management System) supporting solid modeling is highly desirable. In this paper we present a new approach to the design of a geometric solid database system. In the proposed approach an EDBMS with capability of object-oriented accessing and manipulation is developed, and a solid sharing model that is a scheme for representing and manipulating a collection of interrelated solids is proposed. The solid sharing model is used as a basis for designing and manipulating a solid database managed by the EDBMS. Also explored is a mechanism for supporting a long transaction which generates many intermediate designs.