The Solid Model Geometry Generator (SMGG)

Abstract

The Solid Model Geometry Generator (SMGG) system provides the capacity to model complex solid objects through the composition of primitive parts. The parts are specified through input of dimension and orientation parameters. The parts may later be edited, the model may be displayed (through a variety of display options), and the resulting geometry formatted for subsequent analysis. The SMGG system was originally constructed for use in the preliminary stages of space station and other spacecraft design. Because the system models a design through the use of basic shapes common to many solid objects and provides limited capabilities for producing irregularly shaped parts, it can be used for a variety of applications. Currently, seven primitive parts may be specified and produced through SMGG. These include boxes, spheres, cones, paraboloids, tori, and translationally or rotationally swept parts. Each part may be specified by the user through input of basic part dimensions and a local orientation. For example, a box is specified by its length, width, height and orientation in space (rotation, translation, and scaling).