A hybrid variant and generative methodology for modelling complex product families - a case study

摘要

Solid models have, for some time, been created using feature-based modelling techniques and methods such as the Generative and Variant methodologies. This paper proposes a method, which utilises the strengths of these two methodologies and therefore capable of varying and at the same time generating solid models. Crankshafts will be used throughout this paper to illustrate this proposal. The commercial CAD system, Pro/ENGINEER is used to create the solid models of the crankshafts, and Pro/PROGRAM, which is incorporated within Pro/ENGINEER is used to achieve this objective.