Intelligent system for extraction of product data from CADD models

This paper reports a system for automatic extraction of geometric and non-geometric part information from ‘engineering drawings’ created using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) tools. A heuristic search is employed to interpret the characteristic attributes of dimension sets that denote linear, diametrical, radial and angular dimensions. Textual callouts are processed using natural language processing (NLP) techniques to interpret information related to part/feature function and related processes. The part information so recognized is represented using object oriented paradigm (OOP) suitable for linking to the downline CAD/CAM activities of the product cycle. The system, thus provides an effective alternative for design automation using CADD models.