Algorithms to support point-based CADCAM

This paper presents a system that supports a point-based approach to CADCAM that was first suggested by McLaughlin. The core to the approach is the ability to interpolate a grid of points in a geometrically meaningful way that does not suffer from the disadvantages of the standard interpolation schemes based on NURBS. The essential features of the approach are based on recursive subdivision between existing points to generate intermediate points that are consistent with a smooth curvature profile. There are many advantages to this approach. Time-consuming surface fitting is not necessary; there are no problems with ensuring continuity between surfaces; data exchange can be carried out exactly. By chosing to work entirely with points, all of the standard interrogations available in CAE systems, including visualisations, FE analysis and NC machining, which are dependent on NURBS curves and surfaces have to be replicated. The feasibility of the point-based approach is illustrated by showing how geometric interrogations and machine tool paths can be accurately generated using just points. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.