Web-based modular interface geometries with constraints in assembly models

The use of a modular technique in modeling for assembly can improve design efficiency and reduce the cost of product development. This paper presents an approach to an assembly model that was built using modular interface geometries. This paper proposes a novel, hybrid modular design strategy instead of the traditional, top-down design process. The curve-joint method is used as a simplified process for converting a 3D solid model to a skeleton model with interface geometries in modeling for assembly. This research builds assembly interface geometries with their constraints in the assembly model instead of using information about individual assembly parts for the product. These interface geometries are easy to share, and they deliver the design requirements properly. They also ensure that minimal efforts will be required in the design change process. By implementing this method, the constraints of the features in modular assembly parts can be transferred to interface geometries. Designers can easily add, replace, and delete design parts in the modular product. Module interaction for application programmed interface (MIAPI) is developed using HTML and JavaScript. The module structure of products can be verified via the web-based Internet in VRML format. These simplified assembly models that have fewer constraints allow design project managers to simulate the functioning of the product in the modularized design before the prototype is built. By using the assembly models, customers can easily choose various modules to assemble the exact products they are seeking via the Internet process. A desk lamp model is used as the example for implementation to validate the feasibility of this research. 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.