Abstract: Computer-implemented method and apparatus for processing data representing a three-dimensional object model includes generating an image of a modeled object. The modeled object is formed from a number of different components that can be arranged in different positions, and the generated image depicts a change in a position of a first one of the components with respect to a second one of the components.

Abstract: A method for processing a design model generated by a computer aided design system includes accessing model data that includes separately stored data documents detailing construction of the design model from a collection of components, processing the model data to generate image elements representing a projected view of the design model and to generate tag data associating each of the image elements with at least one of the of components and storing the first image elements and the first tag data in a drawing document. Supplementary data can be added to the drawing without the need for the external components to be available on disk or in memory. An updated drawing document can be generated following a change to one of the components. Generating an updated drawing document includes generating tag data that identifies matchings between the original and changed model components. Annotations and other supplementary data can be attached to image elements and stored in drawing documents.

Abstract: Computerized systems for the modeling of real-world objects can include model generation functionality whereby a model is constructed from two-dimensional representations. The functions can include the ability to import two-dimensional representations of a three-dimensional object and arrange the representations on virtual surfaces positioned in a three-dimensional modeling space. The virtual surfaces are positioned to correspond to surfaces on which projections of a three-dimensional model under construction by the user are rendered. A user can interactively construct the three-dimensional model of the object by selecting and manipulating entities of the imported two-dimensional representations and the system can simultaneously display the two-dimensional projections and the three-dimensional model.

Abstract: A dynamic mate inferencing system permits display and manipulation of a computer model, including features of allowing a user to select a feature of the model, determining a characteristic geometry of the feature, dynamically previewing the mating of the feature to a component of the model, allowing the user to alternate between different mating scenarios, and permitting the user to mate the feature to the component in the previewed geometry.