Solid model reconstruction from engineering paper drawings using Genetic Algorithms

Abstract

The wide applications of CAD/CAM technologies have promoted the development and application of many advanced technologies, such as digital manufacturing, rapid prototyping, enterprise resources planning, computer integrated manufacturing, concurrent engineering, virtual reality, and mass customization. These advanced technologies all need to be supported by three-dimensional (3D) solid models of products. Most enterprises, however, still organize their production using 2D paper drawings, which makes difficulties for the application of these advanced technologies. It is needed to convert engineering paper drawings into 3D solid models for applications. Based on holo-extraction of information from paper drawings, this paper develops a systematic 3D reconstruction method, which simulates an experienced human designer's thinking mode in transforming inaccurate outlines with inaccurate projection relationships in 2D drawings into 3D image, with the aid of Genetic Algorithms. © 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.