Abstract: A virtual assembly design environment that simulates axial and planar constrained motion for multiple parts in any combination and application order. Dynamic simulation methods are used to simulate object behavior in the design environment using physical laws and collision detection algorithms. The physical properties, e.g., mass properties, of parts in an assembly are created in a separate CAD system. In one embodiment, physical property information is transferred from the CAD system to the virtual reality environment where it is used in dynamic simulations. The parts behave realistically in a user's hand, constrained on the base part, or moving freely in space. A swept volume can be generated directly in the CAD system. Real-time bi-directional data transfer between a VR environment and the CAD system is also provided. As a result, the user can perform parametric design modifications in the virtual environment by the use of a CAD system.

Abstract: A computational geometry server is provided that includes a server, a communication link, at least one client, and an interrupt interface. The server has processing circuitry and an operation manager. The operation manager is configured to compare source geometric data in a source geometric model with target geometric data in a target geometric model. Furthermore, the operation manager is operative to identify discrepancies in the geometric data between the source geometric data and the target geometric data. The at least one client communicates with the server over the communication link. The interrupt interface is operative to notify a user of the presence of an inability to automatically generate an accurate representation of the source geometric model in the target geometric model. A method is also provided.