3D-Shaping in CAD Systems by the Steps Creation - Inspection - Optimization

Using fast tactile or optical sensors is a new way to manage the process of geometry definition in the CAD surface model, the 3D-shaping, without the time consuming CAD-construction of the geometry. The digitising of the shape of physical models results in 3D measuring "point clouds". Working on these "point clouds" a new CAD philosophy and new CAD methods are necessary to create CAD surface models. Subject of the paper are CAD methods for feature-based definition of free formed surfaces in CAD models. These methods are usid for mapping geometrical and topological information which is extracted from the measured points.