More Thoughts On Generative Design and Automated Modeling

[johndellostritto214]

Defining the envelope and outer boundary of part:

Automated modeling gives the designer the place to start and define beginning point of design with a net shape. The net shape needs to be regressed to it's most simplest form that envelopes all contact faces and Stop boundaries. This Do- Loop regression can occur using a complexity constant* and a volume range to regress net shape to the simplest form. This is where AI can help with shape defintion using the Form function within Fusion 360.

Now that you have defined the net shape - your piece of "virtual" clay to make final part.

The Skeletal Wireframe -

Generative Design strength is exceptional at literally creating the 3D load path curves for a given part geometry which used to be estimated by old engineering hand calculations - Now you have X,Y,Z Coordinates for the load paths. It is these load path curves which now can be used as guide curves with known profiles using the derivative function. This is where AI can quickly make structure without human intervention and also a time savings with reduced modeling time.

The user now can now superimpose the net shape and the wireframe together - Now you have a second set of boundaries together - You can run a solver and choose to create a Combo-hybrid design or play the two results against each other for a resultant type design depending upon the engineering requirement.

Features and Structures  ( Complex part and Multipart)

Offset Face edge curves using AI and use Skeletons ( from applied mathematics Jounal circa 1994?*) to create a set of offset Curves. These offset curves can be used as Guide curves using profiles and derivatives generate complex skeletal structures using AI to automatically generate  the skeleton saving modeling time. The skeleton function as discussed in the Applied Mathematics journal will help create features such as pockets, webbing and ribs from tangency and inflection points. Use the solver as a chisel " to remove unwanted material" to meet final part geometry.

The possibility to virtually "sculpt" a part using the forces and net shape of part can become a reality for future designers.

* Discussed in earlier submissions to the F360 Forum - under [email protected]

Thanks,

John

[lucasliraAU]

Hi, @johndellostritto214 

Thank you for sharing this reflection on the potential of Generative Design - I created this topic if you want to share new reflections or experiments with GD in the future feel free to share.

Greetings from Brazil.

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/student-group-hub/sharing-studies-using-technology-generative-design/...

🤖

[johndellostritto214]

Lucas,

     Thank You so much for replying to my post. Your article gives an excellent summation of what Generative Design and Automated modeling. If I had students I would pass it on to others, I think Automated modeling tames the "wild animal" of Generative Design with AD's hundreds of choices. Back in the 90's us young CAD guys dreamed of a AI engine that would automate and refine the design process. We knew there were design rules, formulas and guides that could be captured in software to automate design. Generative Design is now that engine but it's missing the "transmission and steering wheel"  to make it powerfully and economically functionable. Automated Modeling is providing some controls to GD but there needs to be more. Forces are digitally sculpting the part, parts or assemblies, but we can always make it better.           

Over the holidays send me your wishes of what AM and GD should do. I'll have more time to respond.

Wishing  you a Bom Natal e um feliz ano novo.

John