View source for X3D CAD Macro-Parametric Approach for Translation

[[Image:XML-TransCAD.jpg|thumb|Neutral XML file as viewed in TransCAD]]

== Macro-Parametric Approach for CAD Translation ==

The Macro-Parametric Approach (MPA) for CAD Translation is a way to achieve compatible CAD model exchange among a variety of incompatible CAD systems.

We are studying how MPA might be used for converting diverse CAD models into X3D form.

To learn more about MPA, please to go to the [http://www.macro-parametrics.org Macro-Parametric Approach] website.

The person in charge of MPA for X3D is currently YooKyung Jo, [http://icad.kaist.ac.kr iCAD Lab].

== Steps involved in translation ==

[[Image:X3D-BS_Contact.jpg|thumb|X3D translated file as viewed in BS Contact viewer]]

* Neutral XML file representing a parametric model is generated from various CAD systems' preprocessor programs using MPA.
* This neutral XML file is parsed by a central application called TransCAD which comprises of modules of [http://www.spatial.com/products/3d-acis-modeling ACIS], [http://www.techsoft3d.com/products/HOOPS-3D-Framework HOOPS], Constraint Manager, and Persistent Naming.
* With the help of ACIS APIs, an explicit representation (facets) of the model is generated.
* These facets are then structured into a Delaunay triangularized mesh using [http://tetgen.berlios.de TETGEN].
* The mesh is then optimized by decimating the mesh and maintaining a decent enough visual quality using various algorithms in [http://meshlab.sourceforge.net MeshLab].
* Finally, meshes are rendered in X3D using [http://www.web3d.org/x3d/specifications/ISO-IEC-19775-1.2-X3D-AbstractSpecification/Part01/components/geometry3D.html#IndexedFaceSet IndexedFaceSet].

== Further References ==
* [http://macro-parametrics.org/wiki/Datas/Presentation_link/siggraph.pptx Yuna Kang, Pranvir Singh Rathore, Soonhung Han. Macro-Parametrics Approach for CAD Translation to X3D. Siggraph, LA, 2010.]
* [http://library.kaist.ac.kr/thesis02/2010/2010M020084177_S1Ver2.pdf Pranvir Singh Rathore. <u>X3D-based visual verification of SEDRIS and history-based parametric CAD models</u>. MA thesis, KAIST, 2010.]
* [http://macro-parametrics.org/wiki/index.php/Publications Publications on MPA.]
* [http://icad.kaist.ac.kr iCAD laboratory]
* [http://www.kaist.edu KAIST]