- Docente: Alfredo Liverani
- Credits: 6
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
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Corso:
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
Mechanical Engineering (cod. 5724)
Also valid for Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Advanced Automotive Engineering (cod. 9239)
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from Feb 19, 2025 to Jun 12, 2025
Learning outcomes
The student acquires the operational knowledge indispensable for the intelligent and conscious use of three-dimensional solid and surface modelling systems. He/she employs assembly-oriented modelling and learns how to realise the corresponding 2D drafts.
Course contents
The course covers the main CAD modeling techniques used to develop the virtual model (DMU) of complex industrial products.
In particular:1) The main geometry representation schemes a) Structured and unstructured meshes
b) 2D and 3D mathematical models (Vertex, Line, Surface, Solid, Assembly)
c) Main models for exchange geometries: IGS, STP, STL, etc...2) CSG and B-Rep solid modeling a) Main characteristics of 3D CAD modelers
b) The main features of sketch-based modelers
c) Parametric and variational modeling
d) Structuring complex parametric models
e) The concept of history-based modeling
f) Feature-based modeling3) Sheet metal modeling using a specific CAD module a) Management and realization of the development4) Assembly-based modeling a) Top-down vs. bottom-up approach
b) Use of part and assembly skeletons
c) Structuring an assembly: flat and/or sub-assemblies and implications in project management5) Modeling for product concept a) Continuous curvature varying parametric curves: Spline, B-Spline, NURBS, etc...
b) Double curvature (free-form) surfaces based on curves.
c) Surface modeling from boundary curves
d) Path-based surface modeling and the concept of sweep6) Preparing the model for machining7) Preparing the model for mold making8) Direct modeling a) Management of history-free models
b) Integration issues with history-based models
c) Use of direct modeling for local modification applied to exchange geometries9) Techniques for preparing geometry for structural simulations10) The concept of Reverse Engineering and Reverse Modeling a) Reconstruction of the mathematical model from point cloud
b) 3D modeling from images (photos, sketches, etc...)
c) Comparison between reconstructed and original model for dimensional verification (notes on the use of CMM systems)11) Mesh-modeling concepts for modifying polygonal models
Readings/Bibliography
Slides from Virtuale (virtuale.unibo.it)
Geometric Modeling (Second Edition) M.E.Mortenson Wiley 1997 0-471-12957-7;
The NURBS book W.Tiller, Piegl 3-540-61545-8
Teaching methods
The course will be held entirely in the computer lab. Each student will be provided with a configured station and must develop the exercises personally.
The lecturer carries out the outline of the exercises on the projector, also using collaborative design systems.
The students must carry out the exercises in the lab and, if necessary, exercises indicated as to be carried out independently or optional (see Virtual [https://virtuale.unibo.it] ).
It is possible to have an educational licence of the software available for installation on one's own notebook: instructions on this will be given at the start of the course for the best up-to-date information. The use of the notebook in the laboratory is not recommended.
Students must save the exercises carried out on their own USB memory drive from time to time.
Assessment methods
The assessment of learning takes place by means of a practical test in the computer laboratory involving the use of the CAD system and verification of the exercises carried out and assigned during the course.
The course provides for the Aptitude Certificate to be awarded to students who have passed the practical test and presented all the exercises of the course duly corrected and verified. The final examination will last a total of 30 minutes for the practical test and approximately 15 minutes for the verification of the course papers. Both parts of the final examination will be held on the same day of the appeal.
The appeal dates will be displayed on AlmaEsami.
Teaching tools
The course includes the use of an industry-standard 3D CAD system with parametric, surface processing and assembly management features.
Note. As concerns the teaching methods of this course unit, all students must attend Module 1, 2 on Health and Safety online.
Office hours
See the website of Alfredo Liverani
SDGs


This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.