Computer Aided Design (CAD)

Aim

To provide enhanced conceptual design tools through improved understanding and modelling of aspects of the design process.

The main areas of work

• Computer modelling of the mechanical interaction between people and products is being applied to product design. The realism of humanoid modelling techniques and methodologies has been improved by the inclusion of control systems and soft tissue modelling. Such simulation and modelling techniques in use can be described as non-immersive virtual reality. The interaction between a proposed product design and an appropriate human model can be simulated and evaluated. A designer can perform a mechanical analysis to decide whether the product imposes acceptable loads on the user. The work links research in occupational biomechanics with applied ergonomics. The properties of soft tissue are also being investigated in order to enhance the mechanical behaviour of models. Modelling the contact between human models and products has applications in medical simulations as well as in animations for product design.
• In the field of computer-aided design (CAD) techniques enabling designers to access CAD at the early stages of the design process are being investigated. Current research is concerned with the use of neural network technique in a free-hand 2D sketching and recognition system. This system enables designers to rapidly produce both 2D and 3D geometric models from interpretations of sketches. The work is being extended into free-form surfaces.
• High-speed rapid prototyping techniques enable designers to compare CAD models with solid prototypes in order to assess the limitations of the CAD models. This work using Fusion Deposition and 3D printer techniques aims to evaluate a range of CAD models I order to improve presentation techniques.
• The application and evaluation of a collaborative design environment that will provide useful support for group design work at the life cycle stage of a design project in different locations.
• The application of Artificial Intelligence techniques to provide tools to support the early phases of the design process.

• Prof. David K. Wright
• Dr. Jinseng Kang
• Dr. Sheng Feng Qin
• Dr. John Shackleton
• Dr. Sungwoo Lim
• Mr Hui Yu
• Mr Oliver Fan
• Mr Usman Khan
• Miss DayChyi Ku
• Miss Chen Mao
• Miss Hana Na
• Mr Yue Zhao
• Prof. Guangmin Sun (Visiting prof.)
• Professor Xiao Yi (Visiting prof.)

Directors

Dr. Jinseng Kang

Postal Address

Computer Aided Design (CAD)
School of Engineering and Design
Brunel University
Uxbridge, Middlesex
UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0)1895 266335

Location in University

Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Howell Building