The objective of this project is the development of new and improved algorithms for converting wireframe geometric models to a solid boundary representation. The complete, unambiguous geometric description of three-dimensional volumes provided by the solid representation can be used to model mechanical parts or any solid object. Solid modeling holds the promise of complete computer based prototyping of mechanical parts and assemblies; however, it has not yet attained the widespread commercial application once envisioned. This is due in part to the cumbersome interaction often required to model complex geometries and assemblies. The wireframe to solid conversion addresses this problem as wireframe creation bears a strong resemblance to traditional drafting methodologies and provides a relatively familiar and natural user interface. It also supplies the mechanism for transforming a large existing industrial wireframe database into a more robust solid model format. A topologically based divide and conquer strategy will be investigated to develop a new algorithm for extracting accurate face topology from wireframe models and alleviate the current restriction to manifold objects which contain no holes (genus zero objects). Criteria will be established for automatic surfacing detailing, i.e. extracting the geometric information (surface equation) associated with each face of an object in order to complete the solid model.
