On the computation of integral properties of objects

Abstract

This paper discusses computationally efficient methods for evaluating engineering properties of objects on computers. These methods use existing solid modeling techniques that lend themselves to mass property evaluations. An overall review of the quasidisjoint representation methods used for the approximate evaluation of integral properties of solid models is given. These methods of representation are typically used by analysis packages in the calculation of volume, surface area, center of gravity, mass, moment of inertia, etc. The methods are identical to approximate solid modeling techniques whose implementation involves the subdivision of space into subdomains. Finally, the method of cell decomposition is used for the determination of integral properties of solids modeled by a Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG) technique. The method suggested is very practical for microcomputer implementation. Sample numerical results are finally shown to compare the approximated results with the exact values.