D-Cubed: Latest release of the 2D DCM, Version 51.0
Released March 2007
D-Cubed announces the latest release of the 2D DCM, the geometric constraint solver used in most of the world's major CAD systems. Some of the new features specific to version 51.0 are listed below. A full product description can be found here.
Enhancement to spline modelling functionality: new variable parameterisation type
The 2D DCM enables flexible constraint-based modelling of freeform curves with direct support for splines (including NURBs). Parameterisation is an integral part of defining splines and is the process of associating parameter values with the data points through which the spline curve interpolates. The path of interpolation is determined by the choice of these parameter values for a given set of data points.
The 2D DCM already supports splines that use a variable chord length parameterisation. In this case, the parameter values for the data points are a function of the chord lengths between them. One effect of chord length parameterisation is a tendency for the curve interpolation to diverge over relatively large chord lengths.
Version 51 will now also support splines that use a variable centripetal parameterisation. In this case, a similar calculation is used, however the chord lengths are weighted in such a way that the impact of larger chord distances on curve interpolation is different - see the illustration below.
In the example above, chord length parameterisation determines parameter values that result in a divergence of the curve where the chord length between the fifth and sixth interpolation points is relatively large. Centripetal parameterisation results in a different interpolation between the same points.
The new functionality provides greater flexibility for customers that model splines using the 2D DCM.
Solving enhancement: improved numerical algorithms
The 2D DCM has access to a combination of algebraic solving and numerical iteration techniques when determining how to move sketch geometry to satisfy the user-defined dimensions and constraints. Solving algebraic equations provides much faster and more accurate results compared with solving by numerical iteration. For this reason, the 2D DCM only attempts to use numerical iteration in dimensioning schemes that cannot be solved using algebraic techniques.
Version 51 introduces new algorithms that more reliably identify whether dimensioning schemes that cannot be solved algebraically might be solved numerically. The new algorithms enable a wider range of dimensioning schemes to be solved numerically where no solution was previously considered possible and, in addition, more efficiently identify dimensioning schemes that cannot be solved, even using numerical iteration.
About the 2D DCM
The 2D Dimensional Constraint Manager (2D DCM) has been used for more than 15 years in an increasing number of 2D and 3D geometric applications. In addition to driving the sketcher in most mechanical CAD products, applications as diverse as standard parts libraries, sales configuration, model translation, mold, sheet metal, steel structure, ship, furniture and garment design have all benefited from the comprehensive, dependable and cost effective solution provided by the 2D DCM. Flexible licensing arrangements and a simple, proven integration process enable any organisation, large or small, to add the 2D DCM's functionality to any of their applications quickly and economically.
D-Cubed
D-Cubed software is part of the PLM Components suite of solutions and represents a family of geometric software components that enable key functionality in CAD, CAM, CAE, and PLM applications, including sketching, part and assembly modeling, motion simulation, collision detection, clearance measurement and hidden-line visualization.
Brand and product names mentioned in this press release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Contact
Jonathon Rimmer
UGS (D-Cubed)
Tel: +44-1223-722635