When adding direct editing technology to a traditional history-based parametric modeling tool, you still end up with a structured and ordered model. The direct edits are just another form of a “parametric modeling feature”. They, of course can be very powerful and useful in the right context and I'll discuss this in a future post.
By combining parametric control with direct modeling it is possible to have history-free geometry and assemblies that behave according to the designer’s intent. You can develop relationships and intent independent from the modeling process. There is no need to plan ahead before you start modeling, and certainly no need to ever recreate a model just because the model construction process and methods no longer support the designer’s intent. Parameters can be added to any geometry at any time. There is no dependence on where, how or in what order the geometry features were created, or how they were orginally constrained.
Here are several examples. Some you have seen before on this blog and some you have not. The video is organized into these three groups.
Geometry level design intent:
In these two examples we are simply controlling geometry with a few parameters. As this is direct modeling, it makes no difference where or how the geometry was created, or in what order the constraints were applied. The parameters are solved synchronously, not linearly.
- Variable flange with pattern
- Automotive wheel supporting a family of wheels
Assembly level design intent:With these examples we are controlling assemblies. In some cases we’re using permanent constraints and in other cases the system is doing real-time solving based on the physical properties of the 3D models.
- Iris Simulation
- Complex gear simulation
Combined assembly and geometry design intent:With these last two examples we are controlling both assembly and part relationships as well as geometry. In the case of the drill press we are using NO permanent constraints or relationships. The constraints and relationships are managed real-time based on part and geometry selection. In the V8 engine example we are using a large number of geometry and assembly constraints.
- Drill press design change
- V8 engine stroke change
Next up I want to show you some of the powerful things you can do by utilizing direct editing within a history-based tool - its not only about editing geometry.