3D Constraint Manager
2Pages

Product Highlights .. Non-linear equation solver for simple through complex problems .. Fully Variational - user-defi ned expressions solved simultaneously with other constraints .. Fine control over solver behavior for underconstrained confi gurations .. Powerful failure diagnostics for precise problem identifi cation .. Rigid Equivalence Classes defi ned as virtual subassemblies www.spatial.com DATASHEET Product Overview General Geometric Constraint Manager (GGCM) is a fully-variational non-linear equation solver for simple through complex design and engineering problems. The component provides variational solving for applications requiring assembly management, part design, curve and surface editing, and smooth kinematic motion simulation. GGCM, licensed from ALS Geometric Software, SA (ALS), off ers advanced solvability, fl exibility, extendibility and superior performance. GGCM provides a simple C/C++ API for easy integration with software applications. High-Performance GGCM is a high-performance solver, with the ability to solve complex variational problems at a speed equivalent to history based solvers. Relative performance gains increase signifi cantly as the size and complexity increases, making GGCM ideal for solving large, challenging problems. Solvability GGCM uses a non-separable approach to solving complex fully-, over-, and under-constrained problems. A solution is determined without breaking the problem into smaller independent ones, which is not always possible or accurate. A non-separable approach makes the component uniquely capable of solving the most challenging problems related to large assemblies, surface modifi cations, linkages, and kinematics requiring smooth and controllable behavior. Extendibility Custom objects and constraint types can be created including midpoint, symmetry, shape area, conic arcs, and Bspline curves. Custom constraints are evaluated the same as pre-defi ned constraints and are especially important in part design, curve editing with specifi c chord-length rules and for analyzing physical properties with constraints for force/moments analysis, or belt/pulley systems. Expression Constraints Complex systems and conditions can be defi ned and solved variationally with the rest of the model using non-linear equation solving capabilities. Systems involving forces and moments, equilibrium analysis, physical simulation, advanced curves and surfaces, elasticity, and curvature can be solved with expression constraints. Solutions can be produced that are either smooth (minimize overall movement) or discrete (maintain parts of the model as unmoved). Inequalities The full power and capabilities of expression constraints are extended to inequalities. This enables relative placement of assembly parts with respect to each other, collision avoidance in kinematics and digital prototyping. Inequalities also serve to enforce convexity of curves and surfaces for advanced part design. Rigid Equivalence Classes Rigid Equivalence Classes (REC) are groups of assembly parts whose constraints force them to move rigidly relative to each other. RECs are automatically identifi ed in calculations and included in reports. RECs are essential for highlighting design intent, validating constraint systems, and identifying kinematic groups that are allowed to move independently in large assembly design. Failure Diagnostics Powerful failure diagnostics are provided for immediately identifying the smallest part of a failing problem. This capability is useful in assembly management where it is often very hard to identify sets of confl icting constraints in large and complex assemblies. A clear indication of where the problem lies is provided. Many other application areas benefi t from the quality and usefulness of error diagnostics. Typical Applications GGCM provides non-linear equation solving for applications such as assembly management, constraint management, multi-axis robotics and collision avoidance. General Geometric Constraint Manager Applications: Assembly Management, Constraint Management, Multi-axis Robotics, Collision Avoidance

www.spatial.com Assembly Management GGCM provides the set of simple constraints required to position assembly components with respect to each other. These can be applied in combination with each other and with fully customizable ‘expression’ constraints to build complex assembly relationships. Powerful diagnostics provide applications with mechanisms to identify confl icting constraints and systems of bodies that are rigid, massively simplifying assembly design problems. Constraint Management GGCM provides unifi ed 2D/3D constraint management. Dimensions, constraints and user expressions...