Released October 2008
Siemens PLM Software announces the latest release of the D-Cubed Hidden Line Manager (HLM), a software component that accurately and rapidly computes hidden line views. New enhancements specific to version 39.0 are listed below. See the full product description.
It has always been possible to create more than one instance of the HLM in the same application. This is beneficial in a variety of situations, for example when computing hidden line views on several models independently. Previously, however, it has not been possible for applications running on systems with multiple processors to create different instances of the HLM in different threads. This capability, known commonly as thread safety, is supported in the latest version.
Tolerant models are those which have inaccuracies in their geometric definition. Faces, edges and vertices may not connect consistently to within the model tolerance. Such tolerant geometry is a common side effect of the data exchange process. The HLM employs a range of sophisticated algorithms designed to give reliable results on inaccurate geometry.
The latest release of the HLM improves the hidden line view computation on tolerant models where edges do not accurately lie on faces. New algorithms have been introduced that evaluate these tolerant edges in a wider range of situations, using a new, more direct approach, improving reliability and performance.
One of the strengths of the HLM is its flexibility. It can compute hidden lines views on models with solid, surface and wire representations, whether based on accurate data or faceted approximations. This latest release sees improvements where parts of the model consist of multiple individual surfaces, known as sheets. Although the sheets are not directly associated with each other they may have edges which are related by their proximity to within a known tolerance. Version 39 contains new algorithms for computing common edges along the common boundaries of sheets, improving the reliability of the hidden line calculations.
Rolling ball surfaces are defined by sweeping a sphere along a curve. They are commonly used in solid and surface modeling applications to create pipes and rolling ball blends. This release sees the implementation of further specialised rolling ball algorithms and a range of general optimisations, resulting in improved reliability and performance on models containing these surfaces.
First released in 1999, the HLM is the most widely deployed hidden line solution in the CAD market. It accurately computes hidden line views, engineering drawings and technical illustrations of parts and assemblies with exceptional performance, reliability and functionality. The HLM is compatible with any application as it is independent of any particular modeler or model format, operating on exact, faceted, solid or surface representations.
PLM Components are software tools that support innovation and promote interoperability in CAD, CAM, CAE and PLM applications. Siemens PLM Software develops these components, uses them throughout its own applications and licenses them to independent software vendors and end-user organizations. PLM Components include the Parasolid and D-Cubed products, widely used technologies that provide 3D part and assembly modeling, editing and interoperability, 2D/3D parametric sketching, motion simulation, collision detection, clearance measurement and visualization functionality. Applications include mechanical CAD, CAM, CAE, mold design, sheet metal, AEC, GIS, structural, plant and ship design, CMM, reverse engineering and sales configuration. For more information, please visit www.siemens.com/plm/open/
Neil Howarth
Siemens PLM Software (D-Cubed Components)
Tel: +44-1223-722618
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Suite 600
Plano, TX
75024
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