AU2015100206A4 - Computer implemented 3d modelling input systems and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A computer implemented 3D modelling input systems for use with existing 3D modelling software. The system includes an input interface such as a (GUI) to receive data indicative of a desired component. The program accesses from a database a corresponding component template. The template including one or more selectable standard parameter options. Program checks the template for one or more standard parameter options have been set and, if not set, the program prompts a user to set the one or more def standard ult parameter options and linking these parameter options to the component template. Further it accesses a library and retrieves data indicative of standard parameter options. The interface receives from the user, data indicative of a plurality of component properties, based on this data the program outputs data indicative of a 3D representation of the desired component for subsequent display by the existing software. Existing 3D modelling software 101 3D Norm Figure 1

Description

1 COMPUTER IMPLEMENTED 3D MODELLING INPUT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to computer implemented 3D modelling input systems and methods. Embodiments of the invention have been particularly developed for integrated use with existing 3D modelling software. While some embodiments will be described herein with particular reference to that application, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to such a field of use, and is applicable in broader contexts. BACKGROUND [0002] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. [0003] For many years now, the construction industry has required pre-planning before a job is commenced, generally carried out by a designer of a project to be constructed. This work has been made easier and more efficient by the use of 3D modelling software which is able to create 3D representations of components or objects which can collectively create a plan for a construction project. [0004] However, much 3D modelling software is presently very basic in what it can provide; in other words, it can only provide simple features (lines, shapes, etc.) which can therefore make the construction of more complex components very time consuming and laborious. Furthermore, using existing 3D modelling software is very repetitive and in many cases does not easily allow for inserting and updating information into a created 3D model. Furthermore, even for the more sophisticated 3D modelling software that is available, there is still a need to insert relevant information either by: using small codes and settings, using your own templates or inputting this in manually. [0005] Another issue particularly relevant for a given construction project, is that some components that a designer may wish to use in their design may not be available for use under the particular standards available for the construction project.

2 [0006] Some more recent 3D modelling software includes standard components for a number of international standards such as ANSI, ASME, BSI, DIN, GB, and ISO. However, these are implemented in such a way that the performance of the 3D modelling software is slowed drastically. As mentioned above, for all known existing 3D modelling software there is still a need to insert relevant information or changed fixed descriptions either by: using small codes and settings, using your own templates or inputting this in manually. For construction projects, delivering a 3D model for a project on time and on budget is very important. Furthermore, the desire to reduce potential for errors is also very important. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. [0008] One embodiment provides a computer implemented 3D modelling input method for use with existing 3D modelling software, the method including: (i) receiving data indicative of a desired component, preselected from a list of predefined components; (ii) accessing from a database a corresponding component template, the template including one or more selectable standard parameter options; (iii) checking the template for whether the one or more standard parameter options have been set and, if not set, prompting a user to set the one or more standard parameter options and linking these parameter options to the component template; (iv) accessing a library from the existing software and retrieving data indicative of standard parameter options from the library; (v) receiving from the user, data indicative of a plurality of component properties selected from within the set standard parameter options; and (vi) outputting, based on the data indicative of the desired component and the data indicative of a plurality of component properties, data indicative of a 3D representation of the desired component for subsequent display by the existing software.

3 [0009] In an embodiment, the template includes a plurality of standard parameter options. In an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of parameter options is a range of values. In an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of parameter options is a discrete list of values. In an embodiment, the plurality of parameter options including one or more of the groups of options including: materials; length; width; thickness; and design status. [0010] Another embodiment provides a computer implemented 3D modelling program for use with existing 3D modelling software having a plurality of dynamic and static data fields, the program including: (i) an input module for receiving input data values from a user via one or more preselected input data fields that correspond to one or more static data fields; and (ii) an integration interface for accessing the existing software and communicating the input data to the existing software such that the one or more static data fields is re-set to the input data value. [0011] In an embodiment, the input data values are received via a plurality of preselected input data fields, at least one of which corresponds to one of the plurality of dynamic data fields. [0012] In an embodiment, the static data field is a description field for a particular 3D modelled component. [0013] In an embodiment, the static data field is a description unit field for a particular 3D modelled component. In an embodiment, the description unit field includes one of the group containing: diameter and thickness; Nominal Bore Schedule; Diameter Nominal Schedule; and Inch (imperial) schedule. [0014] In an embodiment, the static data field is a comment field for a particular 3D modelled component. [0015] In an embodiment, the static data field is a common description field for a plurality of 3D modelled components, wherein the static data fields for each component is re-set to the input data value.

4 [0016] One embodiment provides a computer program product for performing a method as described herein. [0017] One embodiment provides a non-transitive carrier medium for carrying computer executable code that, when executed on a processor, causes the processor to perform a method as described herein. [0018] One embodiment provides a computer system configured for performing a method as described herein. [0019] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "some embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. [0020] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner. [0021] In the claims below and the description herein, any one of the terms comprising, comprised of or which comprises is an open term that means including at least the elements/features that follow, but not excluding others. Thus, the term comprising, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to the means or elements or steps listed thereafter. For example, the scope of the expression a device comprising A and B should not be limited to devices consisting only of elements A and B. Any one of the terms including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

5 [0022] As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an "exemplary embodiment" is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0023] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a computer implemented 3D modelling input system according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 8 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

6 Figure 10 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 11 is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12F is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12G is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12H is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 121 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 1 2J is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

7 Figure 12K is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 1 2L is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12M is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12N is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 120 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12P is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12Q is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12R is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12S is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12T is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12U is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

8 Figure 12V is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12W is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 12X is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 12Y is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 13 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 14 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 15 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 16 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 17 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 18 is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 19 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

9 Figure 20 is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 21 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 22A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 22B is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 23 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 24 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 25 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 26 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 27 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 28 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 29 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

10 Figure 30 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 31 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 32A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 32B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 33 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 34 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 35 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 36 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 37 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 38 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 39 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 40 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

11 Figure 41 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 42 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 43 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 44 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 45 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 46 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 47A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 47B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 48 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 49 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 50 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

12 Figure 51 B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51 D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51 E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51 F is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51G is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 51 H is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 511 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51J is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 51 K is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 51 L is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

13 Figure 51 M is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 52A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52F is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52G is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 52H is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 521 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

14 Figure 53B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53F is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53G is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53H is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 531 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53J is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53K is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 53L is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 53M is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

15 Figure 54A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54F is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 54G is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54H is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 541 is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 54J is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 54K is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment.

16 Figure 54L is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 54M is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55A is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55B is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55C is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55D is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55E is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55F is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 55G is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55H is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 551 is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software.

17 Figure 55J is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55K is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. Figure 55L is a screenshot representation of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 55M is a screenshot representation of the output of a computer program of the system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment, created on an existing 3D modelling software. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0024] Described herein are computer implemented 3D modelling input systems (individually denoted by reference numeral 100) and methods for use with existing 3D modelling software 101. [0025] Referring initially to Figure 1, an embodiment of a system 100 includes an input interface, in the form of a graphic user interface (GUI) 102 for a computer program 103, for receiving data indicative of a desired component, preselected from a list of predefined components. Computer program 103 accesses from a database 104 a corresponding component template, the template including one or more selectable standard parameter options. Computer program 103 also checks the template for whether the one or more standard parameter options have been set and, if not set, computer program 103 prompts a user (not shown) to set the one or more def standard ult parameter options and linking these parameter options to the component template. Computer program 103 then accesses a library 105 from existing software 101 and retrieves data indicative of standard parameter options from library 103. After which, interface 102 receives from the user, data indicative of a plurality of component properties selected from within the set standard parameter options. Then, based on the data indicative of the desired component and the data indicative of a plurality of component properties, computer program 103 outputs data indicative of a 3D representation of the desired component for subsequent display by the existing software.

18 [0026] It is appreciated that the computer program is known and at times referred to herein by the program name "3D Norm". 3D Norm is designed to run on a conventional computer system having a monitor, keyboard and mouse (or other pointer controller) and running with conventional operating systems. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, 3D Norm will operate on alternate computer systems, for example on a tablet or smartphone, with alternate operating systems. [0027] Initially, computer program 103 is accessed by the user in the conventional way in the operating system environment. A licence check is initially run to ensure that the user of computer program 103 is an authorised user. If the user is not an authorised user, an option, via a website, will be provided to become an authorised user by purchasing a licence before they can use computer program 103. After the user is deemed to have a valid licence, computer program 103 run an integrity check on database 104 and confirms that is it is available for use. [0028] Next, computer program 103 will ensure that an active standard is set, which essentially checks if an International Standard has been set to use with the program. This involves looking up saved information from database 104. It will be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, an International Standard can be set in the registry of the computer system. If such a standard has not been set, the user will be prompted to set an International Standard before proceeding, which is subsequently saved by computer program 103. Computer program 103 will then recall the user's default settings, if available, for use. This includes recalling favourite components and filling out component properties according to the user's preselected default settings. Existing software 101 takes the form of known 3D modelling software such as Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software and the like. [0029] At this stage, the user can select to progress with one of the following options from a main menu screen: * Use the 3D modelling functionality, "running the application" (described in detail below). * Set or change the properties of components (described in detail below).

19 * Enter data to database 104 (including setting of a maximum dimension for a component which essentially allows the user to predefine values that are checked by computer program 103 when creating or modifying components). * View information, such as license information and website links. Running the Application [0030] When the user selects the use of the 3D modelling functionality, computer program 103 will initially check that existing software 101 is running and if it is not, computer program 103 will start existing software 101. If starting up of the existing software is unsuccessful, an error message will appear and computer program 103 will be closed. [0031] Once existing software 101 is shown to be running, the user can select from the following options (as shown in the screen shot of Figure 2): * Create the desired component (for all intents and purposes, a new component). * Update information of an assembly. * Set or change the default settings of the desired component (for all intents and purposes, a previously created component). * Edit the desired component (for all intents and purposes, a previously created component). * Go back to the main menu. * Close computer program 103. [0032] The "create the desired component" option firstly involves loading any saved settings related to selected component category (in other words, accessing standard parameter options) and naming or renaming components to the user's preference. Such preferences can be found from previously saved data from the user's default settings.

20 Computer program 103 also checks if the component template exists, specifically looking up a template file having a filename in predefined directory. If the component template does not exist or is not located by computer program 103, the user is informed of this and will be taken to the main menu. [0033] If the template is found, then another integrity check will be run to determine if computer program 103 can work with the template, which is done by looking up information stored in template file. If the template is not usable by computer program 103, the user is informed of this and will be taken to the main menu. [0034] Once the template has been deemed usable, computer program 103 will note if default description of the component category has been set (form previously saved information). If this is not set the user will be directed to option "Set or change the default settings the desired component" to set the description of the component category, which will be explained further below. [0035] Computer program 103 then load the user's (default) materials library 105 via existing software 101. Firstly, another integrity check will be run to again confirm that existing software 101 is running (if not running, the existing software will be started up) before the loading of the library is carried out. If computer program 103 is not successful in load the library, the user will need to manually check the libraries of the existing software and retry this step. [0036] Once the materials library is loaded, the parameter options of the desired component will be populated with records of the user's defaults from the materials library. Computer program 103 will look up from previously saved data which material the user has allocated using user's (default) materials library and present this to the user on the allocated component screens. [0037] Computer program 103 then loads a design status of the desired component that is retrieved from database 104. If the design status has not been set, the user is prompted by computer program 103 to enter in a design status which is saved in database 104 for the user. If the design status is present, records loaded computer program 103 displays the category of the desired component that user requires to create. In other embodiments, more than one design status can be entered in.

21 [0038] At this point, the user is required to carry out one of the below options: * Select the material using the desired component on the form that is provided by computer program 103. This first results in disabling the selected material for the component from being selected and enabling all other material selection(s) for the component to be selected (if they were previously not selectable). In relation to the material, computer program 103 searches and retrieves the records of component category table from database 104 and populates the desired component with the retrieved records and leaves the component blank to force the user to make a selection. At this stage the settings are temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. The user is then required to select a section using desired component form and computer program 103 only shows the selected section. Computer program 103 looks up the records from database 104 for the selected section and enables or disables components on the form as required. Values are then set for the desired component which the user can change if required (such as quantity, revision, comments, design status, etc.) This is temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. * Select the desired component from a picture (two examples of which are shown in the screenshots of Figures 32A and 32B), which involves looking up, from saved data, which material the user has allocated using the user's default settings and presenting this in the desired component on form. Computer program 103 looks up the records of component category table from database, and the settings are temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. Computer program 103 then looks up records of component category table from database 104 and enables or disables components on the form as required. Values are then set for the desired component which the user can change if required (such as quantity, revision, comments, design status, etc.) This is temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. [0039] At this stage, the user is required to enter in relevant data for the components and make other relevant selections on the form to ensure that the component can be created according to the standards of the components' category. This is saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage.

22 [0040] The user will now have options available which can be used to look up data, check data relevant to the component or insert comments. That is, the user can look up records of component category table from database 104 and/or settings and the data shown is of the component category table from the database and/or settings. For example, referring to the screenshots of Figures 33 and 34, when a universal beam component is created, the user can select the 'Dimensions' button as shown in Figure 33. After the 'Dimensions' button is selected, computer program 103 will be presented with a screenshot similar to that of Figure 34 that provides all the dimensions of the universal beam component. [0041] Alternatively, a component is created from the following steps: * Check if all required values on the form are correct. If the value(s) and/or selection(s) are incorrect, inform the user and stop save procedure. * Check if existing software 101 is running and, if it is not running, start existing software 101. * If the template cannot be located, inform the user and direct the user to the main menu. If the template located, then it is checked for compatibility with computer program 103 (the check is done by looking up information stored in the template file). If the template is found not to be compatible, the user is informed and directed to the main menu. * Using existing software 101, the template file is opened. * Using existing software 101, parameters in template file are created using the temporarily saved and/or permanent stored values. * Using existing software 101, the property fields are populated with user's preferences using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data. * Using existing software 101, the features are set with the user's preferences using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data such as material, hole(s), slot(s), notch(es), cut(s), amongst others.

23 * Using existing software 101, the property fields are populated with data using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data for computer program 103 to read when changes are required. * The created component is displayed by existing software 101. * Using existing software 101, the saved dialog is also displayed. [0042] A file name is then required to be set by the user. If the file is not saved (using existing software 101) the template file is closed and the user is informed. If the file is saved then the created component is displayed by existing software 101. The user has the option here to change values or selections. With saving the file, computer program 103 stores data in that file (which is not visible to the user). When the user requires to make changes computer program 103 reads these values to be able to connect to the correct database (more databases to come for other international standards), read the correct table and make the correct selections on the form. [0043] Referring to Figures 9 to 11 and 12A to 12Y, each figure shows example screen shots of the 'create component' process for a standard plate component. This process is initiated from selecting the "plate" button shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 9, the buttons correspond to the buttons set in Figures 5 to 8 (the setting of these buttons will be explained further below). Referring to Figure 10, the dimensions for 'Length', 'Width' and 'Thickness' of the plate have been entered. Also a name has been given to this part 'NAME OF THE PLATE HERE'. Design Status, Revision and Quantity have default values. The user can change these here or this can be done later when the user wishes to update the information at a later stage. When all the fields are completed the 'Create Part' button is selected. Computer program 103 will then send instructions to existing software 101 to create the plate in accordance with the specified dimensions and will fill out the iProperties in the fields you have specified (explained further below). When existing software 101 has created the component and filled out the iProperties existing software 101 will show the user the 'Save Dialog'. The user can then choose whether save it or not. If it is not saved, existing software 101 will close that part and the part will not be saved. If it is saved, the user will need to give the part a name and select 'Save'. Figure 11 shows the saved part in existing software 101. Referring to Figure 12A, when the user navigates back to computer program 103, the values of the iProperties of the 24 component are shown. Figures 13 to 19 show a similar example to that shown in Figures 2 to 11. However, in this case the component created is a universal beam. [0044] As shown in Figures 12B to 12Y, the screenshots illustrate how holes and slots can be created in a standard plate. In Figure 12B the 'Hole(s)/Slot(s)' dropdown list is opened and Figures 12C and 12 D show the screen when '1 Hole' and '1 Slot' are selected, respectively. If either of these is selected, an additional 'Hole/Slot' tab will appear alongside the 'Part Information' tab and the screen when the 'Hole/Slot' tab is selected is shown in Figure 12E. Figures 12F, 12G, 12H, 121 and 12J show the screen that appears when the 'Slots in length direction only', 'Holes in width direction only', 'Slots width direction only', 'Holes in both directions' and 'Slots in both directions' are respectively selected. Following on from Figure 12J (where 'Slots in both directions' is selected), Figure 12K shows the populated fields for the option under the section 'Slots in Length Direction of the Plate' and Figures and 12L and 12M shows the populated fields for the option under the section 'Slots in Width Direction of the Plate'. Next, in Figure 12N, there is illustrated how the user has changed the 'First Slot Centre Position' field. Figure 120 shows the updated 'Part Information' tab following what was entered in Figures 12K to 12N with the relevant fields updated. The outputted component, a standard plate with slots, in existing software 101 (Inventor) is shown in Figure 12P. Referring to Figure 12Q, the screenshot of computer program 103 at this stage can be changed such as the changing of the 'First Slot Centre Position' field in this Figure, which results in the outputted component, a standard plate with slots, in existing software 101 (Inventor) is shown in Figure 12R. If the user navigates back to computer program 103 and wishes to change the slots to holes, as shown in Figure 12S, this results in the outputted component, a standard plate with slots, in existing software 101 (Inventor) is shown in Figure 12T. If the user navigates back to computer program 103 and wishes to change the multiple holes to one hole, as shown in Figure 12U, this results in the outputted component, a standard plate with slots, in existing software 101 (Inventor) is shown in Figure 12V. . If the user navigates back to computer program 103 and wishes to change the size of the hole, as shown in Figure 12W, this results in the outputted component, a standard plate with slots, in existing software 101 (Inventor) is shown in Figure 12X. Finally, the user can navigates back to computer program 103 and enter in a comment in the field under the 'Notes' section, as shown in Figure 12Y. [0045] The "update information of an assembly" option involves updating the description of feature and is used for assemblies only. This option is capable of updating 25 properties of all components; single component (parts) or collection of components (assembly or sub-assembly) where components can be described as individual parts or sub-assemblies (again a collection of components). As such, the first check carried out by computer program 103, is to confirm that an assembly file is active. If this is not the case, the user is alerted and the process is stopped. Computer program 103 then loads the default settings of properties and categories (if applicable) of the assembly or assemblies and components, subsequent to which computer program 103: disables the property fields that the user wants computer program 103 to take control over; and enables the property fields that the user wants existing software 101 to take control over. The screenshots of Figures 35 to 39 shows how information relating to an assembly is updated, particularly noting in Figure 38 the inputted information of 'Total Quantity of Current Assembly', 'Revision', amongst others, and in Figure 39 showing the disabling of fields after the 'Count and Update' buttons is selected. Once this is has been complete, Figure 40 shows (from existing software 101) the now populated information after the update of information of the assembly, and Figure 41 shows (from existing software 101) the now populated information after the update of information of the component. [0046] The user selection(s) required include change value(s), enable function(s), update information, and cancel, amongst others. The user inputs required include quantity, revision, design status, and date(s), amongst others. [0047] When the user decides to cancel the update of information, computer program 103 empties the component fields. When user decides to set or change a value, the user can do so after indicating which field needs changing (if the selection has been made to an enable component field). When user requires a function relating to all of the assembly, the user can do so by indicating which function is needed. [0048] Functions (which is not run if nothing has been selected) include: * A count: where all sub-assemblies and components in the main assembly get counted and the total count is populated in the property field(s) the user has defined. * Updating of descriptions: if it has been decided by the user to change descriptions during the project, this function can do this in one action. The user, in this case, must select at least one category to be updated. If the component 26 is member of category then the default settings are read and the description updated. This can be skipped by computer program 103 temporarily remembering a file name and, if file name appears again during the loop, skip this and go to next component. This sub-process is carried out until the last component of the (main) assembly has been reached. 0 Updating of property fields: if component is loaded then the old value(s) is replaced with a new value(s) of the indicated property. This can be skipped by computer program 103 temporarily remembering a file name and, if file name appears again during the loop, skip this and go to next component. This sub process is carried out until the last component of the (main) assembly has been reached. [0049] The "set or change the default settings of the desired component" option involves computer program 103 reading the stored information and presenting this information to the relevant components. Computer program 103 then load the user's (default) materials library from existing software 101 and also checks if existing software 101 is running. If existing software 101 is not running, it will be started and the library will be loaded. If existing software 101 is running then the library loads right away. If computer program 103 is not successful in loading the library, the user will need to manually check the libraries of the existing software and retry this step. Once the materials library is loaded, the parameter options of the desired component will be populated with records of the user's (default) materials library. Finally, if applicable, the database record(s) are loaded and record(s) in components on form are shown. [0050] The user can define a component which allows the user to 'quick select material' - essentially make a quick selection of the material from a chosen default material or shortlist of materials. The user can define text related to component and can allocate materials provided by existing software 101. Referring to the screenshots of Figures 42 to 46, an example of this is shown 'Quick select material' buttons for CHS have been filled out and a material has been allocated to the buttons. Using the example of a handrail, CHS sections are commonly used. As such, it is unnecessary to have the user to fill out the material buttons again and allocate a material again as, in computer program 103, the materials are shown in a dropdown list on the form to set the default for handrails (platform components). Figure 44 illustrates the materials from the CHS default settings.

27 Figure 45 illustrates changing of the button material. Figure 46 illustrates an updated material list from which the user can select a material. [0051] A default description can also be set by the user. In this case, the user selects from predefined options how the component is described and has the option to add or change values. [0052] Furthermore, the user can select components using (unit) description. This is done by selecting an option of a suitable description that a section should be selected from when creating or changing a component. Examples of this can be seen in the screenshots of Figures 45, and 48 to 50 (explained further below). [0053] Before the "set or change the default settings of the desired component" option is finalised the user selects from: * Preview of description option which combine the user's input(s) to show the description. * A cancel option that closes without saving. * A save default option that checks if all required values on the form are correct. This option may not always be applicable. That is, if value(s) and/or selection(s) are incorrect, the user is informed and the save procedure is stopped. Otherwise, the user's input(s) are stored for later use. [0054] Referring to Figures 3 to 8, each figure shows an example screen shots of the 'set default' process for a standard plate component. This process is initiated from selecting the "change defaults" button shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 3, the tab 'Standard Plate' is selected to bring with the screen shot of Figure 3. To be able to use the 'Standard Plate' you need to specify the 'Default Button Text'. Any text can be inputted here up to twelve characters (typical for each button) and Figure 4 shows that 'MATERIAL 1' is entered. It will be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, more or less than up to twelve characters can be offered for use. A material can then be allocated to this button by choosing a material out of you materials drop down menu also shown in Figure 4. Referring now to Figure 5, in the illustrated embodiment, up to five buttons to be used when creating a 'Standard Plate', (although the user can choose to use less than 28 five). It will be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, more or less than five buttons can be offered for use. These buttons allow you to 'quick select' the required material. In this picture all five buttons are shown when creating a'Standard Plate' and materials have been allocated to all the buttons. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, it is illustrated here where the use of the Custom iProperty feature (this will be explained further below) is used and the user chooses how they want the description presented by choosing the description format (from the Plate ID, X etc. options) then selecting the 'Set Description' button. Referring to Figure 8, the user can view the result by selecting the button 'Preview and Set'. When the user is completely satisfied with the settings they can select the 'Save defaults Standard Plate' button. From here on, the user can use the 'quick select' material buttons as configured and the previously entered descriptions of the 'Standard Plate' will always be as specified earlier by the user. These settings can always be changed to the user's requirements at any given point in time. [0055] The "edit component" option relates to a component that requires changing from the read values from file. Computer program 103, from the values from the file, determines: * Which standard need to be set active. * Which component category needs to be set active. * Which database table(s) should be loaded. * Which values should be presented for the components on the category form. * Which category form should be shown. * Which options form should be shown. * Enabling or disabling component(s) on form. * Showing previously saved value(s).

29 [0056] Computer program 103 will then load the saved settings related to selected component category and (re)name components to the user's preference, which have been retrieved from saved data from default settings. Once the materials library is loaded, the parameter options of the desired component will be populated with records of the user's (default) materials library. The value of a material in the allocated component is presented on the form using value(s) from the file. Computer program 103 then loads the design status and shows the value using values from file (which are looked up from database 104) and this data and settings is temporarily saved for computer program 103 to work with at a later stage. [0057] At this point, the user can choose to carry out one of the below options: * Select the material using the desired component form, if required. This involves first disabling the selected material component and enabling all other material selection components, if available. In relation to the material, computer program 103 searches and retrieves the records of component category table from database 104 and populates the desired component with the retrieved records and leaves the component blank to force the user to make a selection. At this stage the settings are temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. The user is then prompted to select a section using desired component form and computer program 103 only shows the selected section. Computer program 103 looks up the records from database 104 for the selected section and enables or disables components on the form as required. Values are then set for the desired component which the user can change if required (such as quantity, revision, comments, design status, etc.) This is temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. * Select the desired component from a picture (as previously explain in relation to Figures 32A and 32B), which involves looking up, from saved data, which material the user has allocated using the user's (default) materials library and presenting this in the desired component on form. Computer program 103 looks up the records of component category table from database 104, and the settings are temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. Computer program 103 then looks up records of component category table from database 104 and enables or disables components on the form as 30 required. The data and settings are temporarily saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. [0058] At this stage, the user has the option to enter in or change relevant data for the components and make other relevant selections on the form to ensure that the component can be created according to the standards of the components' category. This is saved for use by computer program 103 at a later stage. [0059] The user will now also have options available which can be used to look up data, check data relevant to the component or insert comments. That is, the user can look up records of component category table from database 104 and/or settings and the data shown is of the component category table from the database and/or settings. [0060] Alternatively, a component is changed from the following steps: * Check if all required values on the form are correct. If the value(s) and/or selection(s) are incorrect, inform the user and stop save procedure. * Check if existing software 101 is running and, if it is not running, start existing software 101. * If the template cannot be located, inform the user and direct the user to the main menu. If the template located, then it is checked for compatibility with computer program 103 (the check is done by looking up information stored in the template file). If the template is found not to be compatible, the user is informed and directed to the main menu. * Using existing software 101, parameters in template file are updated using the temporarily saved and/or permanent stored values. * Using existing software 101, the property fields are changed with user's preferences using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data. * Using existing software 101, the features are set or changed with the user's preferences using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data such as material, hole(s), slot(s), notch(es), cut(s), amongst others.

31 * Using existing software 101, the property fields are populated with data using temporarily saved and/or permanent stored data for computer program 103 to read when changes are required. * The created component is displayed by existing software 101. * Using existing software 101, the file is saved. [0061] The user has the option here to change values or selections. [0062] Referring to Figures 20, 21, 22A and 22B, each figure shows example screen shots of the 'edit component' process for a standard plate component. Figure 20 shows the plate component that is to be edited in the active window of existing software 101. Figure 21 shows the information that is related to this component in computer program 103. Referring to Figure 22A, the dimensions have been changed. As an example the larger dimension has been put in the 'Width' field and the smaller dimension has been put in the 'Length' field. After saving the part the updated information will be shown with an asterisk. In this example, the default settings stipulate that the description should read as follows: larger dimension x smaller dimension x plate thickness. As such, computer program 103 will recognise the larger dimension and put if first. Figure 22B shows the plate component that has been edited (with the inputs of Figure 22A) in the active window of existing software 101. [0063] Referring now to the illustrated example of Figures 51A to 51 M, screenshots for creating a round flange component are shown where: * Figure 51A shows the screen of computer program 103 when the user selects the 'Flange' tab (round flange option). * Figure 51 B shows the dropdown menu for selecting a standard. * Figure 51C shows the dropdown menu for selecting a flange from the range within that prior selected standard. * Figure 51D shows the other property fields of the created flange entered, such as 'Part name' field.

32 * Figure 51E shows the screen of computer program 103 after the 'Dimensions' button is selected, presented all the dimensions of the flange component. * Figure 51 F shows the screen when the user selects the 'Face type' tab and the 'Spigot' option with Figures 51G and 51H showing two views of the component outputted to existing software 101. Figure 511 shows the screen of computer program 103 when the component of Figures 51 G and 51 H has been saved. * Figure 51J shows the screen when the user selects the 'Face type' tab and the 'O-Ring' option with Figure 51K showing the component outputted to existing software 101. * Figure 51L shows the screen when the user selects the 'Face type' tab and the 'O-Ring Groove' option with Figure 51M showing the component outputted to existing software 101. [0064] Referring now to the illustrated example of Figures 52A to 521, screenshots for creating a square flange component are shown where: * Figure 52A shows the screen of computer program 103 when the user selects the 'Flange' tab (square flange option). * Figure 52B shows the properties (length, width, thickness etc.) entered into the relevant fields and, on the 'Configuration Holes' tab, the '010' option of 'Flange Hole Diameter' chosen, the resulting information being shown in the bottom left corner under 'Square Flange Information'. * Figure 51C shows the screen when the user selects the 'Edge Distance and Centers' tab and Figure 51 D shows the screen when the user selects the 'Other Options' tab (each with default options selected). * Figure 52E shows the 'Configuration Holes' tab of Figure 52B where settings are changed by the user, such as the user selecting the '022' option in the 'Flange Hole Diameter' tab.

33 * Figure 52F shows the 'Edge Distance and Centers' tab where settings are altered, such as the user selecting the '35mm' option as the 'Hole Edge Distance Length Side' tab. * Figure 52G shows the 'Other Options' tab where settings are changed by the user, such as the user selecting the 'Radius' option as the 'Outside Corner Finish' tab. * Figure 52H shows the square flange component outputted to existing software 101. * Figure 521 shows the 'Other Options' tab where settings are changed again by the user, such as the user selecting the 'Custom' option of '32' as the 'Outside Corner Finish' tab. [0065] Referring now to the illustrated example 32B, when the right most component with the 'Left/Right' label is selected, the process shown in screenshots of Figures 53A to 53M for creating a hand knee rail component are initiated where: * Figure 53A shows the screen of computer program 103 when the user selects the right most component with the 'Left/Right' label of Figure 32B. * Figure 53B shows the same screen as Figure 53A but with the 'Right hand side' option selected as opposed to the 'Left hand side' option. * Figure 53C to 53 H shows a series of screens that demonstrate the 'Quick tabs run' option. This essentially is a quick and easy way where all dimensions of the component can be entered into the relevant fields (Figures 53C, 53E, 53G show the dimension fields blank and 53D, 53F and 53H show then populated by the user). However, as shown in Figure 53D, the radius 'R' is entered as 140, whereas the left most length (diameter) is entered in as 250, when it should be a maximum of 180. This causes computer program 103 to show an error message and requires the user to enter in a new diameter, as shown in Figure 531, which is entered in Figure 53J.

34 * Once the rail component is created, a 'Total Length' will be presented, as shown in Figure 53K as 1854.232 mm. * Figure 53L shows the hand knee rail component outputted to existing software 101. * Figure 53M is the screen of computer program 103 after the part is created, showing some additional information in the bottom part of the screenshot. [0066] Referring now to the illustrated example 32A, when the 'Angled Stanchions' tab is selected, the screenshot of Figure 54A is shown to the user. Referring now to the illustrated example of Figures 54B to 54M, screenshots for creating an angled stanchion component is shown where: * Figure 54B shows the screen of computer program 103 when the user selects the 'SOAL' component of Figure 54A. * Figure 54C shows the screen when the user selects the 'SO 125' button. If the user enters in the 'Angle' as 48 (as shown) computer program 103 will present an error message as the maximum angle is 45 degrees. * Figure 54D shows that the user has updated the 'angle' to 23 and also introduces a left hand side kick plate bracket. The dropdown menu of thickness grating is then available to select by the user (which contains only options relevant to the preselected standard). * In Figure 54E, the thickness grating has been set along with some other fields being populated (such as the 'Part name' filed) and this results in the component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 54F. * Figure 54G is the screen of computer program 103 after the part is created, showing some additional information in the bottom part of the screenshot. * Figure 54H is the screen shown when the user selects the 'Straight stanchions' tab. Figure 541 is the screen shown when the user subsequently selects the 'P UNI' component of Figure 54H which results in the updated 35 stanchion component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 54J. 0 Figure 54K is the screen shown when the user selects the 'SC' component from the screen of Figure 54H which results in the updated stanchion component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 54L. Figure 54M is the screen of computer program 103 after the part is created, showing the updated information in the bottom part of the screenshot for the new stanchion component. [0067] As shown in Figures 55A to 55M, the screenshots illustrate how holes and slots can be created in a standard square cover plate component (similarly to how the square flange component was created) where: * Figure 55A shows the screen of computer program 103 when the user selects the standard square cover plate. * Figure 55B shows the properties (length, width, thickness etc.) entered into the relevant fields and, on the 'Configuration Holes' tab, the '010' option of 'Hole Diameter' chosen, the resulting information being shown in the bottom left corner under 'Cover plate Information'. * Figure 55C shows the 'Configuration Holes' tab of Figure 55B where settings are changed by the user, such as the user selecting the '016' option in the 'Hole Diameter' tab. * Figure 55D shows the 'Edge Distance and Centers' tab where settings are altered, such as the user selecting the 'Custom' as 75 option as the 'Hole Edge Distance Length Side' tab. * Figure 55E shows the 'Corner finish' tab where the user selecting the 'No finish' option as the 'Outside Corner Finish' tab. * Figure 55F shows the cover plate component outputted to existing software 101.

36 * Figure 55G is the screen of computer program 103 after the part is created, showing some additional information in the bottom part of the screenshot. * Figure 55H shows the 'Edge Distance and Centers' tab where settings are changed, such as the user selecting the '45mm' option as the 'Hole Edge Distance Length Side' tab, amongst others, and this results in the component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 551. * Figure 55J shows the 'Configuration Holes' tab where settings are changed, such as the user selecting the 'No' option as the 'Slots Length Side' tab, and this results in the component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 55K. * Figure 55L shows the 'Corner finish' tab where settings are changed, such as the user selecting the 'Radius' option as the 'Outside Corner Finish' tab and the 'Custom' as 100 option, this resulting in the component outputted to existing software 101 as shown in Figure 55M. Set or Change Properties [0068] When the user selects the use of the set or change properties functionality, computer program 103 firstly looks at the document type relating to the component. The default settings or values of properties are loaded and information in disabled components relevant to the document type is shown. Computer program 103 indicates using the components which properties the user wants computer program 103 to take control over and the default property information relevant to the document type is shown. Computer program 103 then indicates which properties the user wants existing software 101 to take control over and the default property information relevant to the document type is shown. [0069] Before the "set or change the default settings of the desired component" option is finalised the user selects from: * A cancel option that closes without saving. * A change document type option that firstly shows the new selected document type. The default settings or values of properties are loaded and 37 information in disabled components relevant to the document type is shown. Computer program 103 indicates using the components which properties the user wants computer program 103 to take control over and the default property information relevant to the new document type is shown. Computer program 103 then indicates which properties the user wants existing software 101 to take control over and the default property information relevant to the new document type is shown. * A select option for which application should control the data in the properties. In this case if the user has selected the option for existing software 101 to control the property then the relevant component is emptied and disabled for use by computer program 103. If, on the other hand, the user has selected the option for computer program 103 to control the property then the relevant component is enabled and the user is allowed to input new data or make changes to existing data. * A save properties option which, for each property field: reads what document type has been selected; reads which application should take control over the property; and stores the selection and (if applicable) stores the information allocated to that property. [0070] Referring now to Figures 23 to 31, each figure shows example screen shots of the 'set iProperties' process for a component. Every time a component is created using computer program 103 it updates the iProperties as per the chosen settings. Furthermore, when the user is going to update the information of an entire project, it will also update the information in the iProperties of the components and assemblies as per the chosen settings, negating the need to update the information for all part individually. [0071] Referring to Figure 23, there is illustrated the iProperties of assemblies (Figures 23 to 27) and parts (Figures 28 to 31) the user can control using computer program 103. On the 'Summary' tab page, only the 'Title' has been filled out with the code '=<Part Number>'. This means that the iProperty 'Title' will be the same value as what has been filled out in the iProperty 'Part Number'. Referring to Figures 47A and 47B, the iProperty 'Part Number' can be found on the 'Project' tab page of Parts and Assemblies of the existing software 101 (in this case, 'Inventor'). It is noted that any iProperty name can be used as information shown in other iProperties.

38 [0072] Referring to Figure 24, the 'Project' tab page is shown and here there are some iProperties filled out with values from computer program 103. As shown, computer program 103 generates five Custom iProperties: * 3D Norm Part Name (code to put in the desired iProperty is '=<3D Norm Part Name>'). * 3D Norm Description (code to put in the desired iProperty is '=<3D Norm Description>'). * 3D Norm Qty Req (code to put in the desired iProperty is '=<3D Norm Qty Req>'). * 3D Norm Revision (code to put in the desired iProperty is '=<3D Norm Revision>'). * 3D Norm Design Status (code to put in the desired iProperty is '=<3D Norm Design Status>'). [0073] These Custom iProperties can be found on the 'Custom' tab page of components of existing software 101, when a component has been created with computer program 103. When updating the project, these Custom iProperties will also be found in the assemblies. In this case, the 'WEB Link' is a static value and is not related to any parameter or code, it will always be shown as that link. To put enter a static value the user simply inputs what is desired without the equal sign (=) and the brackets (<>). [0074] As shown in Figure 25, when the user wishes to change the value of the iProperties, the user selects the 'Modify iProperties' button and selects either 'Inventor' (existing software 101) or '3D Norm' (computer program 103) to control that iProperty. Codes can only be entered into iProperties when '3D Norm' is chosen to control that iProperty. As shown in Figure 26, the 'Save iProperties' button is selected to finish and save when the user has completed the iProperty settings for assemblies. [0075] Referring to Figure 27, on the 'Status' tab page the 'Status' option has been made controllable. This allows statuses to be controlled.

39 [0076] Figured 28 to 31 show the section of the Properties used for 'Inventor' (existing software 103) components. The Properties of these components can be changed in the same way as described above for assemblies. [0077] Although examples illustrated herein show a standard plate component, the software is suitable for use with any components, including but not limited to: beams, stairs, ladders, trestles, creating cutting lists, checking schedules of pipe assemblies, updating changed descriptions, adding features to components, stiffeners, base plates, connection plates, customising components, purlins, trusses, rolled sections, and creating costing lists, amongst others. [0078] It will be appreciated that the disclosure above provides various significant and advantageous features, some of which are articulated as follows. [0079] The set active standard feature - because computer program 103 can be used with all international standards (such as Australian Standard, ISO, DIN, ASME, ANSI, etc.), it is desirable to be able to select an international standard that the user prefers to work with. With selecting an international standard, all available (sub) standards under that international standard are available for the user. The selection of standard that the user has made is stored as preference and will be activated every time the user starts to work with computer program 103. The user also has the option to switch to another international standard temporarily or permanently as desired. This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating the need to search through a whole library of standards. It also eliminates making errors such as selecting components that are not available or used on the national or local market. The feature is extremely useful for users who are not familiar with the international or local standards. [0080] The define design status feature - this feature allows the user to define their own design statuses, in the desired language (such as 'Approval', 'Review', 'Issued for Construction', etc.) to indicate the design stage of the component(s). The data provided can be used as a selectable item throughout the application. This information is stored for future use or modification(s) and accessible to the user for presentation when required. This is has the advantageous effect of drastically reducing the time of having to manually input in a design status.

40 [0081] The set maximum dimension feature (also applicable to any other unit) - this feature allows the user to define a maximum dimension for sections. Such data is usually made available by the supplier or manufacturer of a component and will be stored and called up each time the user is creating of modifying a component. This feature provides the user with warning when a value has been put in that exceeds the maximum value. This information is stored for future use or modification(s) and can be presented to the user when required. This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating errors such as requesting unavailable purchase items. When creating or changing a component this feature allows the user, for example, to alert internal or external clients in the early stage of the project of a potential error, advise that a design has to be reviewed or a new supplier has to be considered. [0082] The default quick select material feature - this feature allows the user to allocate a specific material to program components if applicable. The user can give the program component a desired name to indicate what material is going to be selected when the program component is used. With allocating a specific material to program components the user is able to set the desired material for a component very quickly using their own material specifications. The material libraries the user can select from is read out from existing software 101 by computer program 103 and made visible to the user in computer program 103. Materials list(s) can be read out of libraries defined by the user or the default materials list(s) from the library of existing software 101. This information is stored for future use or modification(s) and accessible to the user for presentation when required. The stored information is also used as presentation to the user to set other defaults of related components. This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating errors such as requesting unavailable purchase items, particularly as components are not always available in the desired material. When creating or changing a component this feature allows the user to, for example, alert internal or external clients in the early stage of the project of a potential error, advise that a design has to be reviewed or advise that a different type of material or section has to be considered. [0083] The set default description feature - this feature allows the user to set a desired description for all the different components that computer program 103 is able to create or modify (provided it is not in conflict with descriptions set by standard-settings organisations, manufacturers and suppliers). Where applicable, computer program 103 will use the descriptions preferred by standard-settings organisations, manufacturers and suppliers. This default description of the components is inserted in the component when 41 created or updated when modified. The description can have static values, dynamic values or a combination of the two. Where setting of the default description is allowed by computer program 103, the desired description can be selected from default options, customised by the user or a combination of the two. This information is stored for future use or modification(s) and accessible for the user to be presented when required. The stored information is also used as presentation to the user to set other defaults of related components. This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating data confusion by the interpreter and it allows the user to set a desired standard description. The information presented will always be consistent unless the default settings have been changed. The feature is extremely useful for people who are not familiar with international or local standards that need to be used. [0084] The select components using (unit) description feature - this feature allows the user to set the desired way of selecting available descriptions of components. As an example, the user can choose how he or she would like to select a cylindrical hollow section (CHS). Example options to choose from are: 0 x t (Diameter x Thickness); Nominal Bore Schedule; Diameter Nominal Schedule; and Inch Schedule (Imperial). This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating data confusion by the user. Referring to the screenshots of Figures 45 and 48 to 50, there is shown firstly in Figure 45 the selection '0 x t'. Figure 48 shows a dropdown list with '0 x thickness'. Figure 49 illustrates the option of selecting 'DN - Schedule' as the unit description feature and Figure 50 shows the resultant dropdown list showing 'DN x Schedule' ('Schedule' being 'thickness' in this example). The user can set this feature to their preference and is, using this feature, able to make a selection that the user is familiar and comfortable with. This feature will not compromise any other settings, descriptions or standards. [0085] The set properties feature - this feature allows the user to set static and/or dynamic information into property fields that are available in files of the existing software. The user can use the default settings of the existing software or take over that control of the property field by filling out a static and/or dynamic piece of information. This can be done at any time and there are no limitations in the amount of changes. These property fields can be used for presentation of information. Computer program 103 will: use this type of data to fill out the property fields when components are created; or modify this type of data to the user's required component change(s). This information is stored for future use or modification(s) and accessible to the user for presentation when required. The stored information is also used as presentation to the user to be able to set other defaults 42 when required. This is has the advantageous effect of eliminating the time of having to manually fill out or change the required property field(s) by the user when creating or modifying a component. It also eliminates the time of having to look for specific information as it will always be in the field the user has specified (unless otherwise changed). [0086] The save part comment feature - this feature allows the user to put a comment or note when creating or changing a component. This comment or note will be stored in a property field of the component. This comment or note will be visible to any user when changing the component and can be edited or deleted at any time by any user. This comment or note will also be visible if the comment has been put in outside computer program 103. This is has the advantageous effect of drastically reducing the possibility of part comments not being read. It also could reduce potential errors by informing the user (and others) of any issues encountered, especially when there is more than a single person working on the same project, not necessarily working in the same office at the same time. [0087] The update information feature - this feature allows the user to update static and/or dynamic information of property fields of all components for the whole project at once. The user can fill out a static and/or dynamic piece of information in the property fields that have not been used in the default settings. Computer program 103 will disable the property fields that are set in the default settings to protect that information from overwriting. This is has the advantageous effect of drastically reducing the time of having to manually fill out or change the property field(s) by the user when the project is ready to be issued. [0088] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining", analyzing" or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities. [0089] In a similar manner, the term "processor" may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data, e.g., from registers and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that, e.g., may be stored in registers and/or 43 memory. A "computer" or a "computing machine" or a "computing platform" may include one or more processors. [0090] The methodologies described herein are, in one embodiment, performable by one or more processors that accept computer-readable (also called machine-readable) code containing a set of instructions that when executed by one or more of the processors carry out at least one of the methods described herein. Any processor capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken are included. Thus, one example is a typical processing system that includes one or more processors. Each processor may include one or more of a CPU, a graphics processing unit, and a programmable DSP unit. The processing system further may include a memory subsystem including main RAM and/or a static RAM, and/or ROM. A bus subsystem may be included for communicating between the components. The processing system further may be a distributed processing system with processors coupled by a network. If the processing system requires a display, such a display may be included, e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT) display. If manual data entry is required, the processing system also includes an input device such as one or more of an alphanumeric input unit such as a keyboard, a pointing control device such as a mouse, and so forth. The term memory unit as used herein, if clear from the context and unless explicitly stated otherwise, also encompasses a storage system such as a disk drive unit. The processing system in some configurations may include a sound output device, and a network interface device. The memory subsystem thus includes a computer-readable carrier medium that carries computer-readable code (e.g., software) including a set of instructions to cause performing, when executed by one or more processors, one of more of the methods described herein. Note that when the method includes several elements, e.g., several steps, no ordering of such elements is implied, unless specifically stated. The software may reside in the hard disk, or may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the RAM and/or within the processor during execution thereof by the computer system. Thus, the memory and the processor also constitute computer-readable carrier medium carrying computer-readable code. [0091] Furthermore, a computer-readable carrier medium may form, or be included in a computer program product. [0092] In alternative embodiments, the one or more processors operate as a standalone device or may be connected, e.g., networked to other processor(s), in a 44 networked deployment, the one or more processors may operate in the capacity of a server or a user machine in server-user network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. The one or more processors may form a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. [0093] Note that while diagrams only show a single processor and a single memory that carries the computer-readable code, those in the art will understand that many of the components described above are included, but not explicitly shown or described in order not to obscure the inventive aspect. For example, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. [0094] Thus, one embodiment of each of the methods described herein is in the form of a computer-readable carrier medium carrying a set of instructions, e.g., a computer program that is for execution on one or more processors, e.g., one or more processors that are part of web server arrangement. Thus, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a method, an apparatus such as a special purpose apparatus, an apparatus such as a data processing system, or a computer-readable carrier medium, e.g., a computer program product. The computer-readable carrier medium carries computer readable code including a set of instructions that when executed on one or more processors cause the processor or processors to implement a method. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a method, an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of carrier medium (e.g., a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium) carrying computer-readable program code embodied in the medium. [0095] The software may further be transmitted or received over a network via a network interface device. While the carrier medium is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term "carrier medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or 45 associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "carrier medium" shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by one or more of the processors and that cause the one or more processors to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. A carrier medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical, magnetic disks, and magneto-optical disks. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus subsystem. Transmission media also may also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data communications. For example, the term "carrier medium" shall accordingly be taken to included, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, a computer product embodied in optical and magnetic media; a medium bearing a propagated signal detectable by at least one processor of one or more processors and representing a set of instructions that, when executed, implement a method; and a transmission medium in a network bearing a propagated signal detectable by at least one processor of the one or more processors and representing the set of instructions. [0096] It will be understood that the steps of methods discussed are performed in one embodiment by an appropriate processor (or processors) of a processing (i.e., computer) system executing instructions (computer-readable code) stored in storage. It will also be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular implementation or programming technique and that the invention may be implemented using any appropriate techniques for implementing the functionality described herein. The invention is not limited to any particular programming language or operating system. [0097] It should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, FIG., or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following 46 the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention. [0098] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination. [0099] Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as a method or combination of elements of a method that can be implemented by a processor of a computer system or by other means of carrying out the function. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions for carrying out such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element described herein of an apparatus embodiment is an example of a means for carrying out the function performed by the element for the purpose of carrying out the invention. [00100] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description. [00101] Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term coupled, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limited to direct connections only. The terms "coupled" and "connected," along with their derivatives, may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Thus, the scope of the expression a device A coupled to a device B should not be limited to devices or systems wherein an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B. It means that there exists a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be a path including other devices or means. "Coupled" may mean that two or more elements are either in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but yet still co-operate or interact with each other. [00102] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it 47 is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (15)

1. A computer implemented 3D modelling input method for use with existing 3D modelling software, the method including: (i) receiving data indicative of a desired component, preselected from a list of predefined components; (ii) accessing from a database a corresponding component template, the template including one or more selectable standard parameter options; (iii) checking the template for whether the one or more standard parameter options have been set and, if not set, prompting a user to set the one or more standard parameter options and linking these parameter options to the component template; (iv) accessing a library from the existing software and retrieving data indicative of standard parameter options from the library; (v) receiving from the user, data indicative of a plurality of component properties selected from within the set standard parameter options; and (vi) outputting, based on the data indicative of the desired component and the data indicative of a plurality of component properties, data indicative of a 3D representation of the desired component for subsequent display by the existing software.

2. A method according to claim 1 wherein the template includes a plurality of standard parameter options.

3. A method according to claim 2 wherein at least one of the plurality of parameter options is a range of values.

4. A method according to claim 2 wherein at least one of the plurality of parameter options is a discrete list of values. 49

5. A method according to claim 2 wherein the plurality of parameter options including one or more of the groups of options including: materials; length; width; thickness; and design status.

6. A computer system configured to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5.

7. A complementary computer program configured to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5.

8. A non-transitive carrier medium carrying computer executable code that, when executed on a processor, causes the processor to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5.

9. A computer implemented 3D modelling program for use with existing 3D modelling software having a plurality of dynamic and static data fields, the program including: (i) an input module for receiving input data values from a user via one or more preselected input data fields that correspond to one or more static data fields; and (ii) an integration interface for accessing the existing software and communicating the input data to the existing software such that the one or more static data fields is re-set to the input data value.

10. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 9 wherein the input data values are received via a plurality of preselected input data fields, at least one of which corresponds to one of the plurality of dynamic data fields.

11. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 9 wherein the static data field is a description field for a particular 3D modelled component.

12. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 9 wherein the static data field is a description unit field for a particular 3D modelled component. 50

13. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 12 wherein the description unit field includes one of the group containing: diameter and thickness; Nominal Bore Schedule; Diameter Nominal Schedule; and Inch (imperial) schedule.

14. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 9 wherein the static data field is a comment field for a particular 3D modelled component.

15. A computer implemented 3D modelling program according to claim 9 wherein the static data field is a common description field for a plurality of 3D modelled components, wherein the static data fields for each component is re-set to the input data value.