Reverse parameterization of B-spline surfaces for data transfer

Abstract

This thesis presents the algorithms and methods for transferring B-spline surface data from a final design CAD tool to a parameter based conceptual design CAD tool. Both codes store data in different ways, requiring a technique referred to as reverse parameteriation to achieve data transfer. Methods are discussed to produce surface points from generic B-spline patch definitions. These points are inverted to generate component B-spline surface data. The geometric parameters are retrieved by analyzing the B-spline surface for each component. These methods are applied to a conceptual aircraft design code, ACSYNT, which defines the B-spline geometry using dimensional parameters. This allows for aircraft created on non-parameter based systems to utilize the analysis and geometry routines of ACSYNT.