A Generic Taxonomy for Defining Freeform Feature Classes

AbstractFeature modeling has simplified, improved and accelerated the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) process. However, this modeling paradigm still has some serious shortcomings. Firstly, its domain is currently restricted to regular and simple freeform shapes. Secondly, most current feature modelers do not allow new class definitions, but instead provide design with predefined classes. In this paper, we propose a method to solve these shortcomings as follows. The shape domain is extended to include more general freeform features. To achieve this, a generic freeform feature taxonomy is developed. New feature classes can then be defined by deriving from this taxonomy, at any level of abstraction per design intent, through an object-oriented approach. In particular specification of class parameters and constraints, in the new classes, is demonstrated.