A Tool/Part/Human Interaction Model for Assembly in Virtual Environments

Abstract

Abstract Current virtual assembly environments primarily allow assembly operations involving pick and place manipulations with hands. In some applications, assembly tools snap onto screws and are constrained. Some non-immersive systems create tool motion script models for the tool to execute the assembly operation. The inclusion of tools and realistic tool operations is a significant step in creating a better virtual assembly environment. We propose a technique to model hand held tools and the corresponding assembly operations in a virtual environment. Intermediate-location constraints and tool engagement constraints obtained from the CAD model are used to model the intermediate positions and engagements of a fastener tool, tool-part, and base-part. In addition, tool-based motion dependent on the rotation of the tool and the pitch of the thread has been achieved for a fastener part This allows us to simulate the physical reality of these interactions without using expensive collide, penetrate, correct, and align methods. The tools and tool/hand/part interactions have been modeled and tested in a virtual assembly and design environment successfully. This capability also allows tool accessibility and tool operability to be verified.