The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 30, 2016
Filed:
Jun. 23, 2009
David J. Corcoran, Lexington, MA (US);
Heung-wing LI, Chelmsford, MA (US);
David J. Corcoran, Lexington, MA (US);
Heung-Wing Li, Chelmsford, MA (US);
Autodesk, Inc., San Rafael, CA (US);
Abstract
A method and apparatus that allows the user of a computer aided design (CAD) system to connect three-dimensional parts to create a three-dimensional assembly using connections that completely define the attachment between the parts attached to each other by that connection. The user can simultaneously define the orientations of the parts and their behavior. 'Behavior' includes whether parts are rigidly connected or allowed to move relative to one and other, and if allowed to move, the nature and limits on that movement. Within any movement allowed, the user may specify key discrete orientations known to be important to the function of the assembly, such as orientations that limit movement within the assembly. The connection method creates a smaller, more consistent representation of the underlying constraints of the assembly, improving the reliability, performance, and ease of use of a CAD system in which it is used.