3D Constraint Manager0 pages

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
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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