Some CAD vendors use their own home-grown solids modeling kernel, like think3 and Autodesk. Most use a kernel from Dassault Systemes (Spatial ACIS) or UGS (ParaSolid). It's good to see what's in the new release of a kernel, because then you know what to expect in a future release of the MCAD software you use.
New in ParaSolid v18:
- Finer user control in local editing.
- More ways to thicken, taper, and emboss.
- Enhanced blending and filleting in tightly-curved regions.
- Localized behavior for hidden line removal and sectioning.
- Improvements to data tracking, rollback efficiency, and partition management.
Autodesk's solid modeling kernel is home grown?
Not exactly. So far as I know, it's ACIS with a few changes. Hard to say how many changes, though. Unlike Spatial and UGS, Autodesk does not document the native file format for their kernel.
Posted by: Evan Yares | May 31, 2006 at 10:22 AM
I have yet to use a modeler that makes use of the Parasolid kernel, besides Unigraphics, where the surface and solid tools feel truly integrated.
I don't believe, and have not for some time, that if a company wants to build a hybrid modeler that using Parasolid is the way to go.
What I would like to know more about is the CATIA CAA kernel.
Perhaps SpaceClaim will use it for their new product?
Jon Banquer
Phoenix, Arizona
Posted by: Jon Banquer | May 31, 2006 at 09:27 PM