Product Definition and Dimensional Metrology Systems

Abstract

Product definition is the process in which a part is designed using CAD design software based on customer requirements. One of the key activities in any product design process is to develop a geometric model of the product from the conceptual ideas, which can then be augmented with further engineering information pertaining to the application area. For example, the geometric model of a design may be developed to include material and manufacturing information so that it can later be used in Computer-Aided Process Planning and Manufacturing (CAPP/CAM) and quality control activities. A geometric model is also a must for any engineering analysis such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA). In mathematic terms, geometric modeling is concerned with defining geometric objects using computational geometry, which is often represented through computer software or rather a geometric modeling kernel. Geometry may be defined with the help of a wire-frame model, surface model or solid model. Geometric modeling has now become an integral part of any CAD system.