Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for managing and distributing design and manufacturing information throughout a factory in order to facilitate the production of components, such as bent sheet metal components. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the management and distribution of critical design and manufacturing information is achieved by storing and distributing the design and manufacturing information associated with each job. By replacing the traditional paper job set-up or work sheet with, an electronically stored job sheet that can be accessed instantaneously from any location in the factory, the present invention improves the overall efficiency of the factory. In addition, through the various aspects and features of the invention, the organization and accessibility of part information and stored expert knowledge is improved.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for managing and distributing design and manufacturing information throughout a factory in order to facilitate the production of components, such as bent sheet metal components. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the management and distribution of critical design and manufacturing information is achieved by storing and distributing the design and manufacturing information associated with each job. By replacing the traditional paper job set-up or work sheet with, for example, an electronically stored job sheet that can be accessed instantaneously from any location in the factory, the present invention improves the overall efficiency of the factory. In addition, through the various aspects and features of the invention, the organization and accessibility of part information and stored expert knowledge is improved.

Abstract: A method and apparatus measures cylinder head combustion chambers and provides inputs to machines which can perform operations to assure that all combustion chambers are at a correct volume. Also disclosed are devices for matching volumes of engine assemblies as well as precise machining of gears, turbine blades and other parts. Measurements are ideally made via electro-optical sensors, particularly triangulating types.

Abstract: A method and system for routing a digital probe which signals either a triggered or non-triggered state to continuously scan a part surface without having to return to a rest position each time the probe is triggered. The probe is carried by manufacturing equipment capable of moving in response to control signals and providing manufacturing equipment feedback signals indicating the current position of the probe. Continuous movement of the digital probe is achieved by testing the probe to determine if it is triggered or not at a series of closely spaced time intervals, and rotating a move vector (corresponding to desired probe velocity) in each computation cycle to alter the probe trajectory as a function of the operating state of the probe and its position during the previous computation cycle. These techniques allow relatively inexpensive digital probing systems to gather data at speeds comparable to those of much more expensive analog systems.

Abstract: A method of designing a dental prosthesis model, such as a bridge or a crown. The method includes measuring a three-dimensional configuration of a dentition of a subject in order to obtain configuration data of upper and lower jaw dentitions of a subject. The dentition configuration data is stored. Also stored is pontic model data defining standard pontic model configurations corresponding to the configurations of individual teeth. The pontic model is expressed as a combination of patches that are stored as configuration expression data, and morphology definition data indicating a characteristic morphology of the teeth of the pontic model. The pontic model data is read out, corresponding to a tooth or teeth where the dental prosthesis is to be placed. Based on the read-out pontic model data, crown model data indicating a crown region is made. The crown model data is displayed so that it can be superimposed on a dentition configuration diagram.

Abstract: Data about a plurality of curved surfaces which are expressed in various forms are inputted, and based on the inputted data, the curved surfaces are defined by a set of rational functions with respect to parameters u and v. Then, calculation for intersections which are necessary for machining is carried out, and paths of a cutting tool are calculated. In figuring out the solution of the set of rational functions, first, the extremal value and the point of inflection are calculated, and the solution is calculated by an analytically focusing method with the initial value set between the extremal value and the point of inflection. When a plurality of curved surfaces are expressed in the same form, the curved surfaces are unified into a single surface.

Abstract: A method of rapid prototyping which can utilize existing subtractive fabrication devices for the purpose of forming complex three-dimensional objects from a computer model. The method extends the capability of existing milling machines and other subtractive devices thereby allowing them to create objects of greater complexity than would normally be possible. Complex objects are subdivided by a computer control program into optimal machinable layers having a uniform outer geometry which permits simplified alignment and fixturing and wherein portions of the object are temporarily suspended by integrally machined support membranes. A minimum number of layers are required and these layers will have substantial thickness as compared with those of conventional additive fabricators. Surfaces of the models will be smooth and require little or no hand finishing.