Convergent Modeling
Convergent Modeling
The introduction of Convergent Modeling marks an important milestone in the evolution of 3D modeling. This 2-minute video provides you with a quick history lesson about facet modeling and b-rep modeling, the unique characteristics of each technique, and associated data formats.
At the dawn of 3D CAD, two technologies emerged that allowed us to turn our creative thoughts into innovative products more easily.
Facet modeling
Facet modeling represented surfaces as connected planar triangles, and surfaces were positioned to represent 3D objects. This method was preferred for its simplicity, but engineering accuracy required large data sets.
Facet modeling has since developed as the preferred solution for less precise, high speed, shape representation such as gaming, animation, and digital mock-up. Facet data has become more common and valuable in engineering workflows with the emergence of high-precision, low-cost, 3D scanning, medical scanning and 3D printing.
But the benefits of using facet data are reduced by the need for one-way, one-time conversion to b-rep format, which is often time-consuming and prone to error.
Boundary representation
Historically, boundary representation (b-rep) used mathematically defined surfaces connected by topology to represent objects as water-tight volumes. This was concise and precise, but also more complex. B-rep-proved to be the best solution for engineering.
Today, most CAD CAM systems for design, simulation and manufacture of consumer and industrial products are b-rep based.
The ideal technical solution is to fully integrate facet data representation into b-rep system architecture, allowing you to use facet data across all operations, without conversion.
We have developed a ground-breaking solution for Convergent Modeling in Solid Edge. Our solution lets you use facet data in b-rep workflows with no data conversion and all the benefits of both technologies. It also lets you work seamlessly with mesh-based models created using Generative Design and reverse engineering.
