An Interactive Computer-aided Process Controller Design Package

Applying geometric and dimensional tolerances (GD&T) to part features in computer-aided design (CAD) software is essential so that the part will function properly and to guide downstream manufacturing and inspection processes. However, it is not well characterized how CAD software implements capabilities for a designer to apply GD&T to a part. Of course, CAD software vendors do their own internal testing of those capabilities and users evaluate CAD software so that it satisfies their CAD modeling requirements. However, there has never been any rigorous public-domain testing of CAD software GD&T implementations. To improve that situation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a system to test implementations of GD&T in CAD software. Representative part geometry with GD&T applied to features was modeled in four of the major CAD systems. Errors with semantic representation and graphical presentation of the GD&T were collected and analyzed. The testing methodology, test results, and data analysis demonstrate how well the CAD system GD&T implementations perform. The testing project results can be used as a basis for future testing, methods, and standards to evaluate defects in GD&T applied to part features.

Evaluation of the virtual cement gap parameter of different CAD software programs in designing a single crown restoration: An in vitro study

Since the emergence of Computer Aided Design (CAD) software in 1957, educators have been committed to equipping design engineering students with proficiency in the most widely employed CAD tools in the industry. In the early days, training focused on step by step instructions and understanding CAD theory. Overtime, lecturers adopted more hands-on practice, project-based learning and collaborative learning techniques [1]. The abundance of online resources and tutorials has allowed lecturers, particularly in Higher Education (HE), to focus less on training and more on theory and use of various software and techniques. Over the last decade, the number, pace and emergence of unique sub-sector software development has grown exponentially, making it difficult for educators to adopt a fixed CAD curriculum. In the early days, the dominant players in the CAD software arena until the early 2010s were Solidworks, Rhino 3D, and Autodesk Maya, each equipped with its own proprietary rendering engine. However, over the past decade, there has been a proliferation of CAD software alternatives, complemented by independent rendering engines like Keyshot, notably embraced by software applications such as Blender, Gravity sketch, and Sketchup. In particular, Blender and Rhino's Grasshopper add-on have experienced a surge in user-generated custom add-ons, broadening the array of available features and functionalities. The rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools over the last two years has introduced a new layer of complexity, as tools such as Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Control Net have gained prominence in the industry. The exponential growth of computational tools available has presented higher education institutions with a perplexing choice regarding which CAD software to teach and the most effective pedagogical methods [2]. This complexity is further compounded by the dynamic nature of software development and the diverse career paths of students, each demanding a distinct skill set for success. This intricate situation prompts the inquiry into an approach to future-proof and tailor CAD software education to the unique requirements of each student cohort . Perhaps the same tool that advances learning can be used for future-proofing? Whilst there are examples of successful uses of AI in education in other disciplines, the inquiry using baseline data from undergraduate and postgraduate students at a world leading institution raises additional questions: • Can we design an AI tool that develops bespoke CAD learning for students? • Can this learning go beyond simple command instructions and extract higher universal principles of CAD theory? • Specifically in HE, can AI be used to create individual learning plans based on student’s interests, industry needs and ongoing advances in CAD? References : [1] Brink, Kilbrink & Gericke, 2023. Teach to Use CAD or through Using CAD: An Interview Study with Technology Teachers. International journal of technology and design education 33.3: 957–979. [2] Xie, 2018. Learning and Teaching Engineering Design through Modeling and Simulation on a CAD Platform. Computer applications in engineering education 26.4: 824–840. [3] Ye, Peng, Chen & Cai, 2004. Today's students, tomorrow's engineers: an industrial perspective on CAD education, Computer-Aided Design, Volume 36, Issue 14, 2004, 1451-1460.

This paper describes a methodology for automation of measurements in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software by enabling the use of supervised learning algorithms. The paper presents a proof of concept of how dimensions are placed automatically in the drawing at predicted positions. The framework consists of two trained neural networks and a rule-based system. Four steps compound the methodology. 1. Create a data set of labeled images for training a pre-built convolutional neural network (YOLOv5) using CAD automatic procedures. 2. Train the model to make predictions on 2D drawing imagery, identifying their relevant features. 3. Reuse the information extracted from YOLOv5 in a new neural network to produce measurement data. The output of this model is a matrix containing measurement location and size data. 4. Convert the final data output into actual measurements of an unseen geometry using a rule-based system for automatic dimension generation. Although the rule-based system is highly dependent on the problem and the CAD software, both supervised learning models exhibit high performance and reusability. Future work aims to make the framework suitable for more complex products. The methodology presented is promising and shows potential for minimizing human resources in repetitive CAD work, particularly in the task of creating engineering drawings.

This study set out to compare the three-dimensional (3D) trueness of crowns produced from three types of lithium disilicate blocks. The working model was digitized, and single crowns (maxillary left second molar) were designed using computer-aided design (CAD) software. To produce a crown design model (CDM), a crown design file was extracted from the CAD software. In addition, using the CDM file and a milling machine (N = 20), three types of lithium disilicate blocks (e.max CAD, HASS Rosetta, and VITA Suprinity) were processed. To produce a crown scan model (CSM), the inner surface of each fabricated crown was digitized using a touch-probe scanner. In addition, using 3D inspection software, the CDM was partitioned (into marginal, axis, angular, and occlusal regions), the CDM and CSM were overlapped, and a 3D analysis was conducted. A Kruskal–Wallis test (α = 0.05) was conducted with all-segmented teeth with the root mean square (RMS), and they were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U-test and the Bonferroni correction method as a post hoc test. There was a significant difference in the trueness of the crowns according to the type of lithium disilicate block (p < 0.001). The overall RMS value was at a maximum for e.max (42.9 ± 4.4 µm), followed by HASS (30.1 ± 9.0 µm) and then VITA (27.3 ± 7.9 µm). However, there was no significant difference between HASS and VITA (p = 0.541). There were significant differences in all regions inside the crown (p < 0.001). There was a significantly high trueness in the angular region inside the crown (p < 0.001). A correction could thus be applied in the CAD process, considering the differences in the trueness by the type of lithium disilicate block. In addition, to attain a crown with an excellent fit, it is necessary to provide a larger setting space for the angular region during the CAD process.

The current design of the harvesting machine exhibits limitations in terms of efficiency and operational cost. The existing track system, cart configuration, and lack of flexibility in the harvesting tool hinder optimal performance. To address these issues, this research aimed to propose and evaluate three design improvements: transitioning from a track system to tyres, integrating a six-axis robotic arm, and separating the cart system. The study utilised Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for detailed modelling and visualisation of the proposed designs. A basic economic analysis was also done to study the impact of design improvement on the machine’s operational cost. When the track system changed to tyres, the travelling speed increased to 3.5 times that of the current speed, i.e., 13 km/h. The cart was separated into an additional chassis so the centre of mass could be maintained at the proper position. The six-axis robotic arm added flexibility to the harvesting tool. Economic analysis indicated that the new machine design had a lower operational expenditure (OPEX), i.e., RM58.94 compared to RM60.78, although the price of the new machine was RM100,000 higher. It can be concluded that the new design improvements using CAD software could be used to assess the machine’s viability without constructing a physical prototype.

Design and analysis of 3-wheeler chassis

Bicycle frames have to bear variety of loads and it is needed to ensure the frame can withstand dynamic loads to move. This paper focusing on dynamic study for bicycle frame structure with a purpose to avoid the problem regarding loads on the structure and to ensure the structure is safe when multiple loads are applied on it. The main objectives of dynamic study are to find the modal properties using two method; finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental modal analysis (EMA). The correlation between two studies will be obtained using percentage error. Firstly, 3D model of mountain bike frame structure has been draw using computer-aided design (CAD) software and normal mode analysis using MSC Nastran Patran was executed for numerical method meanwhile modal testing using impact hammer was performed for experimental counterpart. From the correlation result, it show that percentage error between FEA and EMA were below 10% due to noise, imperfect experiment setup during perform EMA and imperfect modeling of mountain bike frame structure in CAD software. Small percentage error differences makes both of the method can be applied to obtain the dynamic characteristic of structure. It is essential to determine whether the structure is safe or not. In conclusion, model updating method is required to reduce more percentage error between two results.

The minimally invasive endodontics could retain more peri-cervical dentin (PCD) and other important dental structures, thus realizing the minimal loss of teeth structures and preserving the strength and function of the endodontically treated tooth (ETT). The search for abnormal root canals or calcified root canals could be quite time-consuming and increase the risk of perforation. This study introduced a novel multifunctional 3D printing guided splint inspired by the dice, which can achieve the minimally invasive access cavity preparation and canal orifice identification. Data were collected from an outpatient with dens invaginatus. Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) revealed a type III invagination. The CBCT data of the patient were imported into a computer-aided design (CAD) software (Exocad 3.0; Exocad GmbH) for the 3D reconstruction of jaw bones and teeth. The dice-inspired 3D printing guided splint consists of the sleeve and guided splint. The sleeve with minimal invasive opening channel and orifice locating channel were designed with a reverse-engineering software (Geomagic Wrap 2021). The reconstructed models in the Standard Template Library (STL) format were imported into a CAD software. The design of the template was aided by the dental CAD software in Splint Design Mode. The sleeve and splint were exported into the STL files separately. A 3D printer (ProJet® 3600 3D Systems) was used to separately generate the sleeve and guided splint, and was made by stereolithography and processed in a medical resin (VisiJet M3 StonePlast). The novel multifunctional 3D printing guided splint could be set in position. The opening side in the sleeve was selected and the sleeve was inserted in place. The minimal invasive opening was made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp. The sleeve was draw out and turned to the orifice location side, and then inserted in place. The target orifice was located rapidly. This novel dice-inspired multifunctional 3D printing guided splint allow dental practitioners to gain accurate, conservative, and safe cavity access from teeth with anatomical malformations. Complex operations might be carried out with less reliance on the operator's experience than with conventional access preparations. This novel dice-inspired multifunctional 3D printing guided splint would have a broad application in the dental field.

This study investigates the impact of Project Based Learning (PBL) integrated with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software on improving technical drawing skills among vocational high school students. The experimental design involved two groups: an experimental group that received PBL based instruction using CAD software, and a control group that followed traditional instructional methods. The results revealed a significant improvement in the technical drawing skills of the experimental group, as indicated by higher post-test scores compared to the control group. These findings suggest that PBL, when coupled with CAD tools, fosters active learning, critical thinking, and enhances students' ability to visualize and create accurate technical drawings. Additionally, the project-based approach promoted collaboration, real world problem solving, and digital literacy, key competencies in vocational education. The study also identified a substantial effect size (Cohens d=2.97), emphasizing the significant educational impact of the PBL CAD integration. Despite the promising results, the study highlights limitations in terms of generalizability due to the single school sample and suggests further exploration of affective and behavioral outcomes in future research. In conclusion, the integration of PBL and CAD software represents an effective pedagogical strategy for improving technical drawing skills and preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.

A description is given of the development of a novel interactive computer-aided control system design (CACSD) package for the design of linear multivariable control systems. The package incorporates the stable factorization design technique and other recent design methodologies, such as the systematic design approach. To provide a high level of interactive design environment for the user, knowledge-based expert system development tools are provided within the package. In addition, the user is provided with the facilities to write user-defined functions and procedures.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

Additive manufacturing has opened the door to the creation of lightweight lattice structures. However, present Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software are unsuitable for these types of structures. The objective of this research is to examine the performances of current CAD and CAE software to design lattice structures and to demonstrate their limitations and propose requirements for future developments. A performance evaluation of a case study for lattice structure designs was conducted. The criteria used for the evaluation were CAD human-machine-interface, RAM consumption, data exchange between CAD, CAE and CAM tools and finite element analysis (FEA) duration and file sizes. The CAD tool was incapable of executing a repetition function for octet-truss lattice structures of 150 x 150 x 150 mm dimensions or larger and the software stopped working. For 70 × 70 × 70 mm octet-truss lattice structure, the FEA computation file size reached 36.6 GB. The CAD file size of a 200 x 200 x 200 mm octet-truss lattice structure reached nearly 290 MB. In conclusion, this study exposes the performance inadequacy of current CAD and CAE tools and CAD file formats to design lattice structures for additive manufacturing parts.

It has been always a challenge to grade and assess the students’ CAD (Computer-Aided Design) three-dimensional models in the class. The high number of the files and complexity of models make the task time-consuming and tedious many times. For example, even opening and closing each CAD file takes a lot of time. When hundreds of CAD models need to open and verified, it takes more than one hour to finish the task. The work has been done to simplify this task and make it easy using Commercial CAD software’s API (Application Programming Interface), which can be used to automate and customize the CAD software. The API contains hundreds of functions that you can call from Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), VB.NET, Visual C#, Visual C++ 6.0, and Visual C++/CLI. These functions provide direct access to CAD functionality such as opening a file, check the important physical properties of three-dimensional models. Custom API program has been programmed for the task. The custom program executes the internal commends in CAD software and retrieve the data you need from each CAD file automatically. The program opens the multiple CAD files in the folder and check each file’s physical properties and save the information in MS Excel for the review. The program checks the volume (w.r.t the given coordinates) in two standard units (English and S.I. Units), the creator of model (to prevent the plagiarism) and degrees of sketch. In this paper, the following topics will be discussed and presented. 1) The problem with manual grading and assessment, 2) History and background of API functionality in commercial CAD software, 3) Examples of simple source code for API usage, 4) Running example of the API program for the given task, 5) Comparison between manual assessment and automatic assessment using API in terms of spent time. 6) Future improvement with API program. Actual demonstration of the program will be given during the presentation.

Exergy-based methods for computer-aided design of energy conversion systems

Hand-held three dimensional models of the human anatomy and pathology, tailored-made protheses, and custom-designed implants can be derived from imaging modalities, most commonly Computed Tomography (CT). However, standard DICOM format images cannot be 3D printed; instead, additional image post-processing is required to transform the anatomy of interest into Standard Tessellation Language (STL) format is needed. This conversion, and the subsequent 3D printing of the STL file, requires a series of steps. Initial post-processing involves the segmentation-demarcation of the desired for 3D printing parts and creating of an initial STL file. Then, Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is used, particularly for wrapping, smoothing and trimming. Devices and implants that can also be 3D printed, can be designed using this software environment. The purpose of this article is to provide a tutorial on 3D Printing with the test case of complex congenital heart disease (CHD). While the infant was born with double outlet right ventricle (DORV), this hands-on guide to be featured at the 2015 annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America Hands-on Course in 3D Printing focused on the additional finding of a ventricular septal defect (VSD). The process of segmenting the heart chambers and the great vessels will be followed by optimization of the model using CAD software. A virtual patch that accurately matches the patient’s VSD will be designed and both models will be prepared for 3D printing.