The papers in this collection provide an insight into current research issues and directions in geometric modeling. Like many other fields in the past, geometric modeling is making the transition from the empirical stage to a maturity based on formal theories and procedures. The data structures and algorithms are also being treated on a more rigorous basis, using the formal procedures of computer science.
Until recently, researchers were concerned more with modeling the basic geometry and topology of individual parts. However, as in this volume, attention is now focused upon the specification of a complete engineering model of a product. Emphasis is given to the role of features, and to the modeling of assemblies, tolerances, and processes. Constraints, parametric design and variational geometry have all become important. Non-manifold topology has become essential for the representation of adjacency information.
Until recently, researchers were concerned more with modeling the basic geometry and topology of individual parts. However, as in this volume, attention is now focused upon the specification of a complete engineering model of a product. Emphasis is given to the role of features, and to the modeling of assemblies, tolerances, and processes. Constraints, parametric design and variational geometry have all become important. Non-manifold topology has become essential for the representation of adjacency information.
