EP2122516A2

EP2122516A2 - Computer system, use of graphs, method for creating a construction drawing, method for manufacturing a product, and use of said method

Info

Publication number: EP2122516A2
Application number: EP08701059A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Gerhard Schell
Original assignee: SEW Eurodrive GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: SEW Eurodrive GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2007-02-07
Filing date: 2008-01-10
Publication date: 2009-11-25
Also published as: DE102008003731B4; CN101606156A; EP2485170A2; CN102289551B; WO2008095574A2; WO2008097607A3; EP3486810A1; CN102289551A; DE102008003731A1; WO2008095574A3; US8666702B2; EP2485170A3; CN101606156B; EP3486810B1; US20080189083A1; WO2008097607A2

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for creating a construction drawing for a construction variant, said construction variants being composed of parts of a construction kit. In said method, a command sequence for creating a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the construction variant is determined by means of a computer system on the basis of a parts list. Indications on how to use a part are assigned within the parts list in order to describe the use of the parts in the construction variant.

Description

Computer system, use of graphene, methods of producing a design drawing, method of making a product and use of the method

Description:

The invention relates to a computer system, a use of graphene, a method for producing a construction drawing, a method for producing a product and a use of the method.

From EP 1 251 444 B1, a method for configuring a product or a product combination on a PC is known, in which the display of the products is generated at runtime and visually adjusted by a CAD program when reconstruction has taken place.

From the product documentation of the CAD standard software SolidWorks2006, patterns are known as a special copying process. From this product documentation links are also known for the mutual alignment of CAD drawings.

The DIN standard DIN-V 4002-2 discloses features and reference hierarchy for product data exchange, in particular the terms object and object class for describing a hierarchical structure.

From DIN-ISO 6433 position numbers are known, which are assigned to individual parts or groups in technical drawings.

From the reference work Wikipedia, in particular from the keyword "graph theory" of the German-language edition in the version January 3, 2007, 13:16 clock, directed graphs with nodes and directed edges, paths, cycles and circles and diameters of graphene are known for the description of graph.

From the reference work Wikipedia, German-language edition, under the keyword "list of mechanical CAD solutions" in the version from 29 November 2006, 12:26 clock, CAD standard software is well-known. From the reference work Wikipedia, German-language edition, under the keyword "product configurator" in the version of December 22, 2006, 15:01 clock, a configurator is known, with the products are customizable.

The invention has the object of developing a device and a method with which CAD drawings of design variants of a series can be created.

According to the invention, the object of the computer system according to claim 1, when using graphs according to claim 7, in the method for producing a construction drawing according to claim 12, 13 or 16, in the method for producing a product according to the in claim 47 and in the use of a method for producing a product according to the features indicated in claim 48.

Important features of a method for producing a transmission of a series using a data processing system, wherein the transmission is composed of components of a modular system and from the components of the kit further variants of transmissions are produced, are

- That each component of the kit auxiliary figures are assigned, wherein at least one component is a shaft and this shaft is associated with the axis of symmetry of the shaft or a concentric to this axis of symmetry cylindrical surface as an auxiliary figure and wherein at least one component is a toothing part and this

Toothing part at least one, a side surface of the toothing part comprehensive level or a plane parallel thereto is assigned as an auxiliary figure,

in that rules are entered into a rule memory by having for each rule at least a first component usage identifier, a second component identifier

Component alignment mark, a first auxiliary figure, a second auxiliary figure and an alignment command are named, wherein the alignment command enforces an alignment of the first auxiliary figure relative to the second auxiliary figure are formed from the components of the modular component types, wherein the Components of a respective component type are assigned the same auxiliary figures, and the component use designations are each assigned to a component type and describe the connection of the component type with one or more other component types, - that enforces in at least one rule, the alignment command a coaxial alignment,

in at least one rule, the alignment instruction forces a congruent or parallel alignment of planes

- and that after completion of the input of all rules for the components of the kit o in a first step, a parts list of the transmission is entered, the entries of the bill of materials each contain at least one assignment of a component to a component usage indicator, o in a second step, all the rules of Rule memory, their first component use identifier and second

In a third step, the extracted rules are applied to the components of the parts list by determining for each rule that component as the first component that is assigned to the first component usage indicator of the rule in the parts list, that component as second component is determined, which is assigned to the second component use identifier of the rule in the parts list and the first component and the second component are aligned by the orientation of the first auxiliary figure of the rule on the first component relative to the second auxiliary figure Rule is enforced on the second component, wherein after processing all the extracted rules, the gearbox is assembled from the components, o in a fourth step with a collision check an order of disassembly steps of the assembled gearbox automated we determined d o and in a fifth step to a control device of a system comprising at least one handling device, the determined order of disassembly steps is transferred and the control device the Plant controls and the determined sequence of disassembly steps processed in reverse order and thus the system mounted the gearbox.

The components may be advantageous as 3D models and / or with characteristic data such as dimensions and / or material selection and / or limiting

Key figures / debit values are stored in a database. As auxiliary figures mathematically imaginary axes, planes, regular surfaces or bodies can be used. The auxiliary figures are preferably distinguished by the symmetry or an approximately present symmetry of the relevant component or determined by physical boundary lines or interfaces, for example by material boundaries, of the component. The auxiliary figures are thus preferably features that an assembler uses in actual assembly to align the components relative to each other, for example, by alignment or mating, as a reference object. The auxiliary figures are preferably stored as marked or designated planes, surfaces, bodies or axes in the 3D model of the component or stored or assigned in a database with respect to the associated component. The use of axes of symmetry as auxiliary figures is particularly advantageous in the configuration and manufacture of transmissions usable because transmissions usually have a large number of rotating components, the rotatability requires a rotational symmetry, with respect to the axis of symmetry during installation, the alignment has to be made. Instead of the axis of symmetry, a cylinder jacket surface which concentrically surrounds the axis of symmetry, for example a physical surface of the component, can also be used. The use of planes as auxiliary figures, or a finite, so preferably limited to the extent of the component, section thereof, is generally advantageous in series in which the assembly takes place an alignment of the components by placing or applying or stringing. This application or laying on or stringing is preferably done by parallel or even congruent alignment. Planes can be used particularly advantageously in transmission series which describe an axial fixing of rotating parts on or on other rotating parts, for example on shoulders, shaft rings, bearing rings and similar stops. With the rules, these auxiliary figures of two components are related to each other, the rules represent a decomposition of the steps in the assembly in elementary steps that on a Computer system implementable and executable without human intervention, so applicable, are. If these rules are related to the component usage marks and not to the individual components themselves, then not only the number of rules that are necessary is drastically reduced, but it is only possible, one and the same component, such as a certain standard screw, depending on the desired variant the series in different positions, so with different uses to provide. Thus, the invention is particularly advantageous in series usable in which the kit of all components and in particular the individual variants designed, designed and constructed such that a high degree of reuse of the components and therefore achieves a low total number of components of the kit with high variety of variants are. An example of this are transmission series, in which a particular toothed part is used in respectively different stages or at different positions of the variants for the formation of variants with different transmission numbers, torque classes, number of stages and / or input or output shaft types. After the method according to the invention has been prepared by the described inputting of the rules and / or the database of components with auxiliary figures, which preferably take place with input means such as keyboards and / or mass storage readers and / or establishing a remote data transmission connection, the invention offers the advantage that Fully automated, the relevant variant can be produced from any parts list. In this case, the described collision check consists in that a computer system successively and iteratively checks the possibility of collision-free removal of the components from the assembled, for example present as a 3D model, variant and possibly successively removed the components, wherein the order of the removed components is stored. The control device of the handling device preferably has means for calculating or processing three-dimensional images of the variant during assembly, wherein a possible installation path is determined for the respective components to be installed. The erfindungemäß upstream steps serve to determine the mounting position and make sure that in each case a possible installation path exists. The invention can therefore be used in particular for the automated production of variants of a series in which the large number of variants makes the preparatory preparation and provision of a 3D model or prototype impossible for each variant. So it is particularly favorable if the components are stored as 3D models and the auxiliary figures are marked in the 3D models and / or if after processing all extracted rules in the third step, the transmission as 3D model from the stored as a 3D model Assembled components.

In a further embodiment, a piece of furniture series is provided instead of the transmission series, and it is one and the same door or a certain shelf or a specific functional insert used to form different furniture variants at different positions of the different variants.

Important features of the invention of a computer system for generating design drawings for design variants are that the design variants are composed of components of a modular system, wherein a first database is provided, are stored in the data for each component of the kit, each component is characterized by a feature set in that a second database is provided in which component usage labels are stored, each component usage identifier being assignable to at least one component, and each variant being completely writable by assigning components of the kit to component usage labels from the second database, and providing a third database, are stored in the rules, each rule relating in each case two component usage marks, in particular two features from the respective feature sets, and that a mounting module is included in the computer system, wherein on Monti he module means for selecting the rules from the third database to a list of component usage marks are provided. The advantage here is that information and / or parameters that are applicable not only for a specific component of the kit, but for a class of components, do not have to be stored individually for each component and do not need to be edited individually for each component. Thus, a structured editing of a kit is possible. In particular, for an automated, mechanical or computer-based running processing time and material costs can be reduced. The computer system is thus advantageously designed for the computer-controlled preparation of assembly drawings, in which individual work steps can be formulated independently of specific characteristics of the components involved. In an advantageous embodiment, the features stored in the first database for each component include information on geometric auxiliary figures in the CAD drawing or in the 3D model of this component for spatial alignment of the component, in particular wherein the geometric auxiliary figures surfaces, planes, axes, cylinders , Lines, circles and / or edges. Thus, features are advantageously deposited, which are useful for the formation of classes of components. The class formation advantageously relates to a set of features, in particular of geometric auxiliary figures, which are of similar construction in the components of the corresponding class.

In an advantageous embodiment, a man-machine interface is formed, can be assigned to the components of the kit to component usage indicator from the second database to form a bill of material for a design variant, wherein the man-machine interface comprises means for data access to the second database. The advantage here is that with the man-machine interface, a configuration tool can be formed, and this configuration tool in a configuration process on the structuring, so class formation, as stored in the second database can access. Thus, information for a later producible assembly drawing in a compact, data-saving and time-saving manner can already be provided in the configuration process.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least one CAD drawing or one 3D model, in particular single part drawing, is filed in the first database for each component of the construction kit. The advantage here is that item drawings are provided for the assembly drawing.

In an advantageous embodiment, the first database and the second database are comprised by a database. The advantage here is that the maintenance of the database, in particular the entries in the database, and backup of the data is easy to carry out.

In an advantageous embodiment, a data interface is formed, via which CAD drawing data, in particular from the first database, and / or CAD drawing commands, for example linking commands and / or pattern commands, can be transmitted to a CAD standard software, wherein the mounting module Includes means for controlling the CAD standard software, in particular an interface for transferring Forming link commands and / or pattern commands. The advantage here is that CAD standard software can be used to calculate and create the assembly drawing and / or a 3D model. Thus, the ease of use is increased. Due to the formation of software interfaces, the computer system according to the invention can be used with various CAD standard software packages. Thus, the flexibility of use is increased. The use of CAD standard software packages offers the further advantage that a comprehensive, reliable functionality is available for the further processing of a process product according to the invention, preferably a 3D model.

Important features of the invention of using graphene to encode the

Design variants of a series, wherein the variants are composed of components of a modular system, are that each design variant is represented by a graph, in particular a circle-free graph, wherein the nodes of the graph represent exactly the components used in the design variant and the edges of the graph physical Represent connections between the components and the coded construction variant is passed to a computer system for automated drafting. Thus, advantageously, the amount of data required to create a 3D model for design variants is reduced. Also, the maintenance of the database system, such as adding new design variants, is simplified because information is structured. Thus, information about the thread of a screw irrelevant, the position of the axis of symmetry, however, not if, for example, this screw is to be arranged in a bore.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least one graph to a design variant has a diameter greater than 2, wherein the edges of the graph are provided with the weight one. The advantage here is that not all components must be based on an excellent component, since paths with more than two edges, for directional paths with more than one edge, can be formed. Thus, physical connections are more realistic imitable or codable. This advantageously improves the structurability and thus reduces the time spent on maintaining the databases.

In an advantageous embodiment, each graph is directed, leaving at most one edge of each node, in particular wherein the direction of the edges essentially encodes a mounting order. The advantage here is that not only a physical connection, but even a mental montier sequence can be coded. imaginary refers here to the fact that not an actual assembly in sequence must be feasible, but that a structuring of the components in the design variant can be achieved. This mental mounting order thus essentially represents an actual mounting order. For example, in a physical connection of a gear cover with a gear housing by an edge direction can be specified that the gear cover is provided on the gear housing, and not vice versa. Thus, by the edge direction components are distinguished from others, which have fundamental importance. For example, a screw is arranged on a gear cover and on the screw a washer. Here, a slight deviation from an actual mounting order is conceivable because it is not yet determined whether the screw is to be mounted in the gear cover before or after fitting the washer. A determination of this sequence can be achieved, for example, by arranging the associated object classes in the second database. However, it is irrelevant for the creation of a 3D model. For an automated drafting, in which a computer system automatically determines which component is being started, the described method can be advantageously used.

In an advantageous embodiment, the edges are arranged in edge classes, wherein the number of edge classes occurring in the series is really smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the total number of edges in all graphs used in the series. Thus, the number of graphs needed for a description of the series is advantageously reduced. The databases are thus advantageously reduced in size, the access time and the processing time are advantageously shortened.

In an advantageous embodiment, the automated drawing creation comprises a decoding, wherein rules are provided for the decoding with which each edge of each graph can be translated into linking commands and / or pattern commands of a CAD standard software. The advantage here is that the information provided in the configuration information and structuring is directly usable for creating a 3D model and / or an assembly drawing, and that the software tools available in a CAD standard software are available.

Important features of the invention of a method for generating a design drawing for a design variant, wherein the design variant is composed of components of a kit, are that a user Configuration variant configured, in particular created a bill of material, and a computer system from a database CAD drawings or 3D models of provided in the design variant components and this composes into a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the design variant, in particular by means of a CAD standard software. The advantage here is that production processes and / or operations can be automated. Thus, the number of errors is reducible, and there are even series with a large, unmanageable number of design variants, editable. Also, the processing time is reduced to the finished 3D model.

In an advantageous embodiment determines a computer system based on a parts list for the design variant, a command sequence for creating a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the design variant. Thus, the method is advantageously integrated in a configuration process.

In an advantageous embodiment, the bill of material for each bill of material entry contains information about the use of the relevant component in the design variant, in particular an object class or a component usage indicator, and the determination of the command sequence based on the information given in the bill of material entry on the use of the relevant component in the Construction variant, in particular the object class or the component usage indicator. The advantage here is that a structuring is created that is traceable, since it is based on physical and / or functional conditions of the design variants of the series. This facilitates maintenance of the data stock and troubleshooting.

In an advantageous embodiment, the command sequence is read and executed by a standard CAD software, this CAD standard software being used to display the CAD drawing or to calculate the 3D model of the design variant. Thus, the extensive functionality of CAD standard software packages can be used advantageously.

In an advantageous embodiment, a first database is accessed in which information, in particular CAD drawings, are stored for all components of the kit, wherein each component is characterized by a set of features, in particular geometric auxiliary figures in the respective CAD drawing, and it will be on a second Database, are stored in the object classes, in particular component usage indicator, each feature class is characterized by a feature set, each feature class is assigned at least one component, the feature set of the object class is a subset of the feature set of the component, and it is based on a third Database are accessed in the rules are stored, each rule sets two object classes in relation, in particular two features from the respective feature sets of components that are the respective object classes assigned. The advantage here is that databases are used, which represent the structuring of the series. By providing rules, the work steps performed by a technical draftsman when creating a 3D model can be mapped in a computer system. By using components and object classes and assigning components to object classes, the design variants can be coded as graphs with nodes and edges.

In an advantageous embodiment, in the third database for each rule, the two object classes that are related by the rule are stored as a first and a second entry for the rule. Thus, the information about the direction of the edges is generally advantageously storable.

In an advantageous embodiment, the design variant is created and / or configured with a configurator, wherein the configurator accesses the second database and wherein the design variant described by a parts list. The advantage here is that as a configuration tool standard software, a configurator, can be used, and that this configurator can access the structuring of the series using object classes and thus can incorporate the structuring of the current design variant in the configuration process.

In an advantageous embodiment, each object class characterizes the use of those components that can be assigned to the object class in the design variants of the series clearly, in particular by reference to a component usage indicator. The advantage here is that the structuring of the kit based on object classes of physically and / or functionally motivated conditions. Thus, the assignment of a component to an object class for every configuration is for one human user readable and understandable. This facilitates, for example, maintenance and troubleshooting.

In an advantageous embodiment, in a first step, the components for the construction variant are selected from a first database and an object class is selected from a second database for each selected component, in particular by means of a configurator, and in a second step, from a computer system third database determines the rules for the selected object classes and it will be created in a third step by a computer system based on the determined rules from CAD drawings or 3D models of the selected components, a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the design variant. The advantage here is that a method is provided with the automated, i. without human intervention, an assembly drawing can be created from a result of a configuration.

In an advantageous embodiment, the selected object classes and the selected components for the construction variant define a directed graph, the edges of the graph representing the object classes and the nodes of the graph respectively representing the component associated with the object class represented by the outgoing edge. Preferably, the design variant is represented by a graph, in particular a circle-free graph, where the nodes of the graph represent exactly the components used in the design variant and the edges of the graph represent physical connections between the components and with a system of rules from the third database of FIG translating each edge of the graph into a sequence of shortcut instructions for a standard CAD software, particularly where the linking instructions are placed in a particular order that causes ambiguity in the interpretation avoiding the joins, especially where the order is tailored to the CAD standard software. The advantage here is that a compact coding of design variants is provided from the simple and low cost of a computer system, an assembly drawing and / or a 3D model can be created. Another advantage is that the functionality of CAD standard software can be used directly by using linking commands and / or pattern commands. Another advantage is that with the method, the creation of assembly drawings from single part drawings can be automated, ie without additional human intervention is executable. Selecting a sequence for the join instructions has the advantage of avoiding ambiguity in assembly. If, for example, the parallel alignment of two essentially perpendicular axes leads to an ambiguity with respect to the directionality of the parallel alignment, ie to an obscurity as to whether parallel or antiparallel alignment is actually achieved, interposing an intermediate step, for example orientation at an angle of 45 °, is advantageous. However, such a step is to be carried out before the final alignment step, so that the determination of a sequence is conducive.

In an advantageous embodiment, a CAD standard software is used to create the CAD drawing or the SD model, wherein in a first sub-step of the third step, a computer system sorts the determined rules and in a second sub-step of the third step, a computer system sorted rules in Standard commands of the CAD standard software translated, in particular while maintaining the sorting, in particular wherein in the first database, the CAD drawings or 3D models, in particular individual part drawings, all components are kept and the CAD standard software accesses this first database. Thus, a method is advantageously described with which a CAD assembly drawing or a 3D model can be created easily and inexpensively from an extended parts list provided with assembly rules. The assembly drawing or the 3D model are also easily editable.

In an advantageous embodiment of a Montier module in the second step, the following steps are sequentially followed: ai) for the top BOM entry of the bill of material or for the top provided for CAD representation bill of material entry of the bill of material from the third database those rules are determined a.ii) the step ai) is repeated with the next following BOM entry or with the next BOM entry provided for the CAD presentation, until all BOM entries have been processed.

Preferably, a Montier module in the second step in a sublist to each BOM entry eliminates all those determined rules for which the object class of the second entry for the rule is not included in the BOM, in particular wherein either the elimination following step ai) or eliminating for all sublists after editing all BOM entries, and it the determined and not eliminated rules are stored in a structure list. The non-eliminated rules of the structure list are further processed as determined rules in the third step. Thus, a method is advantageously provided by which the assembly rules from a third database can be determined for a parts list. On the software side, the method can advantageously be implemented in the form of two nested loops.

In an advantageous embodiment, the features stored in the first database for each component include information on geometric auxiliary figures in a CAD drawing or a 3D model of this component for the spatial orientation of the component. The advantage here is that the definition of the features is based on physical and / or functional aspects. Thus, the method, in particular the filling of the databases, designed to be clear. The rules preferably describe links between geometric auxiliary figures of the feature sets of the relevant object classes. Particularly preferably, each rule describes a link between two geometric auxiliary figures from the feature sets of the relevant object classes, in particular a link command of a CAD standard software. By using geometric auxiliary figures as features, the definition of linking rules directly reproduces the work steps of a technical draftsman working with a CAD software package in a computer system, in particular a computer.

In an advantageous embodiment, the links of the rules correspond to link commands, as used in CAD standard software, and / or the links of the rules correspond to sequences of link commands, in particular to pattern commands, as used in CAD standard software. The links used preferably comprise standard links, in particular the links congruent, parallel, perpendicular, tangential, concentric, spaced, angular and / or counterbalanced. The advantage here is that a standard CAD software can be used, and that a replica of the steps of a technical draftsman is possible directly in a computer system.

In an advantageous embodiment, the rules determined in the second step for the selected object classes are ordered with an ordering relation in the first sub-step of the third step, wherein the order is the sequence of the linking commands in the second Sub-step of the third step determined. With an ordering relation, the ambiguities described above are advantageously avoidable.

In an advantageous embodiment, a base object class is determined, in particular by counting the rules for each selected object class, which relate a further selected object class with the object class, and selecting the object class with the largest number or by counting the incoming edges for each Node of the graph that encodes the design variant. Thus, advantageously, a starting point for the preparation of the assembly drawing can be determined. It is advantageous to select the object class as the basic object class to which most of the components hang, since this generally represents the housing or another fundamental component. Thus, the computational effort when creating is kept as small as possible, since not already in the course of creating components already inserted on a new component must be calculated.

In an advantageous embodiment, each rule in the third database is assigned a binary-valued attribute and the rules determined in the second step are ordered according to the value of this attribute, in particular when sorting the rules in the first substep of the third step. Thus, the possibility is provided to provide intermediate steps in the alignment, the processing of which enjoys priority. It is advantageous to avoid ambiguity.

In an advantageous embodiment, an ordering relation is explained on the set of usable links used for ordering the rules determined in the second step for the selected object classes, in particular when sorting the rules in the first substep of the third step. An ordering relation on the usable links is advantageously oriented to the functional properties of the CAD standard software that is used. For example, it is advantageous if the ordering relation on the set of usable links classifies area joins and / or level joins and / or edge joins before axis joins and axis joins before pattern commands. Since the component to be examined should already be aligned for processing pattern commands, these must be incorporated last. In an advantageous embodiment, an order relation on the set of object classes is explained, which is used to order the rules determined in the second step for the selected object classes, in particular when sorting the rules in the first substep of the third step. Thus, unnecessary computational effort in the creation of the 3D model is avoidable. Preferably, for each used in the design variant

Object class determines the number of rules that relate another selected object class to the object class, or for each object class used in the design variant, in the graph that encodes the design variant, the number of edges arriving at the node representing the object class, determined. Advantageously, in the first sub-step of the third step, the object classes are arranged in descending order according to the number determined for each object class used in the construction variant, in particular by the mounting module. Thus, a basic object class and thus a basic component can be selected easily and without human intervention. With the coding by means of graphs, the basic object class is particularly advantageous as a node on which most directional paths end, deducible. This selection is advantageously integrated in the mounting module.

In an advantageous embodiment, a presentation module in the second sub-step of the third step accesses a CAX interface via which CAD data, in particular individual part drawings or 3D models of the components of the design variant, are loaded into the CAD standard software. Preferably, in the second step of the third step, a presentation module accesses the CAD standard software and places therein an assembly, loads into the assembly the individual part drawings of the components of the design variant, selects therein the auxiliary figures and in accordance with the determined rules linked and / or patterned according to the determined rules, and the CAD standard software calculates a 3D model of the design variant. Preferably, the CAD drawings are managed to the components with a PLM software and it is used to create the CAD drawing the current CAD drawing version. Thus, there is provided a method that is compatible with standard software packages for data management common to CAD standard software packages. When creating the 3D model, human intervention and / or decisions are advantageously avoidable, and the degree of automation is high.

Particularly advantageous access to the databases via an intranet or the Internet. The software modules can thus be installed on a locally available computer or can be controlled via the Internet, preferably input masks or applets. The 3D model and / or derived drawings can be transmitted via the Internet. In an advantageous embodiment, a CAD drawing is derived from the 3D model of the design variant in which the object classes for the components, that is, the component usage marks, are represented as position numbers. Thus, a usable by a fitter, a designer and / or by a sales engineer drawing can be created.

In an advantageous embodiment, the design variants represent in particular design variants of a transmission series, wherein the components are given by the usable individual parts of the transmission variants and the object classes

Designate quantities of components of the kit, which have a common reference to another component of the kit. The advantage here is that the variety of variants typical for transmission series can be controlled by the method.

In an advantageous embodiment, individual or all databases are executed as SQL databases with interfaces. Thus, a version management for the databases is advantageous providable. The method can thus be used for series with a large variety of parts and / or a large variety of variants.

In an advantageous embodiment, the presentation module is comprised by the montier module. Thus, a compact implementation of the invention in software modules is possible.

In an advantageous embodiment, each component of the kit auxiliary members are assigned, wherein at least one component is a shaft and this shaft is associated with the axis of symmetry of the shaft or a concentric with this axis of symmetry cylindrical surface as an auxiliary figure. The invention is thus advantageously used in series of transmissions or other devices with rotating parts. The cylindrical surface preferably represents a physical surface or a material boundary or an envelope of a toothing or a thread.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least one component is a toothing part and it is associated with this toothing part at least one, a side surface of the toothing part comprehensive level or a plane extending parallel thereto as an auxiliary figure. The invention can thus be used with advantage in series, their variants are created by applying components to each other. In particular, thus an axial fixation of rotating components on support surfaces or abutment surfaces effected.

In an advantageous embodiment, rules are entered in a rule memory, in particular the second database, by naming for each rule at least a first component usage indicator, a second component usage indicator, a first auxiliary figure, a second auxiliary figure, and an alignment command, the alignment command being an alignment of the first Auxiliary figure enforces relative to the second auxiliary figure. These rules thus represent elementary assembly work steps from which the automatic assembly process is automatically assembled.

It is particularly advantageous if components of the components of the kit are formed, wherein the components of a particular component type are assigned the same auxiliary figures, and the component use designations are each associated with a type of component and describe the connection of the component with one or more other component types.

In an advantageous embodiment enforces in at least one rule of

Alignment command a coaxial alignment. Thus, the functionally necessary alignment of the axes of rotating components is used for assembly.

In an advantageous embodiment, in at least one rule, the alignment command forces congruent or parallel alignment of planes. Such alignment may, for example, describe laying and / or applying and / or stringing and / or fitting. Preferably, such an alignment command is related to auxiliary figures which describe physical contact surfaces of two components in the assembled state.

In an advantageous embodiment, a sequence of disassembly steps of the assembled design variant is determined automatically after creating a 3D model of the design variant with a collision check. For example, it can be determined so automatically that a washer before screwing a screw into a housing, it is slipped onto the screw and not after screwing in. By using the collision check, a computer system designed according to the invention is able to cancel the individual alignment commands one after the other, ie successively and iteratively, and to check in each case whether the degree of freedom, which is no longer specified, permits a component to be removed without collision. If so, it is preferred to proceed to another alignment instruction pertaining to that component; if not, another alignment instruction is selected. If a component with all degrees of freedom is independent of the other components, this component is preferably stored on the list of dismantling steps. It is particularly advantageous to start with the cancellation of the alignment commands or linkages of planes, because they often describe the axial definition on axes, and the relevant components can be pulled apart along these axes for disassembly.

In an advantageous embodiment, after creating a 3D model of the design variant of a control unit of a system comprising at least one handling device, passed a determined sequence of disassembly steps and it controls the control unit the system and works the determined sequence of disassembly steps in the reverse order, and the system thus assembles the design variant. Thus, in the manufacturing process of the design variant not only the required 3D model, but even the physical realization of the design variant can be produced.

In an advantageous embodiment, after creating a 3D model of the design variant, a collision check is performed and an error message is output if the collision check results in an error. Such an error arises, for example, when components overlap in the assembled state to prevent function. Thus, design errors that arise, for example, by a faulty-maintained rules of a configurator, even before assembly easily recognizable. In the event of a fault, a designer may now modify the manufactured 3D model accordingly and / or perform a correction of the configuration rule. In an advantageous embodiment, after the creation of a 3D model of the design variant, a function simulation is performed or displayed. Thus, the user is able to check whether the selected configuration variant meets the intended requirements. Configuration errors are recognizable and avoidable. Such a functional simulation can be advantageously combined with a simulation of the intended load, in particular with a simulation of the material fatigue.

The assembly drawing created with the invention or the 3D model of the design variant created with the invention can be used advantageously for further processing of the design variant, for example for consideration of special requests or special specifications that have not previously been depicted in the series.

Important features of the invention of a method for producing a product having a plurality of structural design variants are that in a first step, a selected design variant is defined and / or configured with a parts list, evaluated in a second step in a database stored rules for linking the items of the parts list In a third step assembly instructions and / or manufacturing instructions and / or CAD drawings can be derived from the evaluated rules. The advantage here is that the production is automated, and in particular can be triggered remotely. It is particularly advantageous that with the drawings, which in turn preferably have position numbers, an assembly instruction can be generated, which is derived from the determined order of the determined rules.

Important features of the invention of using a method for producing a product having a plurality of constructional design variants are that the method is used for projecting and / or offering design variants of a series, in particular transmissions of a transmission series. The advantage here is that one

Modular system with large variety of parts and / or large variety of variants is manageable, the processes for generating 3D models and / or other representations can be automated. Thus, human errors in the creation process are avoidable, and the creation time is shortened. Further advantages emerge from the subclaims. The invention is not limited to the combination of features of the claims. For the skilled person, further meaningful combination options of claims and / or individual claim features and / or features of the description and / or figures, in particular from the task and / or by posing the task by comparison with the prior art task.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

101 Configurator 5 102 Order BOM

103 knowledge base database

104 SQL interface

105 mounting module

106 PLM Interface 10 107 Search pattern data

108 search result data

109 Lifecycle Management Software 110 CAX Interface

111 CAD Program 15 112 Metadata Bank

113 CAD drawings

114 configuration database

601 output feature

602 patterned feature 20 603 Join list

604 pattern list

605 shortcut command

606 first linked component

607 second connected component 25 700 flange

701, 702, 703, 704, 705 Surface 706 screw hole

1001 Creating the structure list

1002 structure list

30 1003 Selection of the top element

1004 Creating a sublist

1005 sublist

1006 Selection of the top element 1007 Comparison with structure list

1008 Note link / pattern

1009 Increment / set flag

1010 Poll loop end sublist 5 1011 Loop Increment Sublist

1012 query loop end structure list

1013 Loop increment structure list

1014 Query missing rule

1015 Sorting the links 10 1016 Sorting the structure list

1017 Query missing CAD drawing

1018 Reading the CAD drawing data

1019 finished structure list

1020 Making the 3D model 15 1021 CAD drawing

1022 Error message "Knowledge base database incomplete"

1023 Error message "CAD drawing is missing"

1024 CAD representation of a screen

1025 data storage

20 1301 Invite the CAD parts

1302 Creating an assembly

1303 Query if a rule is noted

1304 Query whether second component already in assembly

1305 Insert second component

25 1306 Query if further rule noted

1307 select next rule

1308 Query whether further component notes

1309 select next component

1310 Edition 3D Model 30 1311 3D model

1312 Insert 1. Component

1313 Connection of components 1500 System 1501 control unit

1502 control line

1503 handling device

1504 gripper arm

5 1505 Gripping tool

1506 storage

1507 Components 1508 WeIIe 1509 Gear

10 1510 housing cover

1511 housing body

The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to figures. To simplify the following illustration, the product is a transmission series. Within the gearbox series gearboxes are manufacturable in a number of structural design variants, which are each composed of components of a common kit and which together form the gearbox series.

However, the exemplary selection of gears is not intended to be limiting; the invention is also applicable to other products or products. The invention is for example also applicable to electric motors, automobiles, automotive components, semitrailers, means of transport, furniture, cabinets, shelving systems, kitchen systems, manufacturing equipment and generally products that are composed of components of a kit and thus each a series with a variety of structural design variants represent.

It shows

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device according to the invention,

FIG. 2a shows an example of a parts list for a design variant,

FIG. 2 a shows an example of a component usage identifier catalog, FIG. 4 a shows the first part of an extract from a knowledge base database, FIG. 4 b shows the second part of the extract from FIG.

FIG. 5 shows a created variant drawing with component usage indicator for the parts list from FIG. 2a / b and for the knowledge base database from FIG. 4a / b, FIG.

FIG. 6a shows the determined links for the construction variant from FIG. 2a / b, FIG. 6b shows the determined pattern commands for the design variant from FIG. 2a / b, FIG.

FIG. 7 shows the CAD view of the component 040 from the parts list of the construction variant from FIGS. 2a / b,

FIG. 8 shows the positions of the shaft stumps in the housing of a transmission,

FIG. 9 shows another example of an extract from a knowledge base database, FIG. 10 shows an algorithm for a mounting module,

FIG. 11 shows a preliminary structure list,

FIG. 12 shows a filled structure list, FIG. 13 shows a sorted structure list,

FIG. 14 shows an algorithm for a presentation module, Figure 15 shows a plant for the production of a transmission.

Figure 1 shows in the form of a schematic diagram both the components of a 3D configurator, ie a device for generating a design drawing for design variants of a series, as well as the information and data flow between these components as well as the final products of the inventive method for generating the design drawing.

On a computer system, not shown, a configurator 101 is installed. This configurator 101 is designed as a human-machine interface

Configuration tool, an SAP / R3 configurator, with which an order BOM 102 can be created for each desired design variant of the transmission series. To create the order bill of material 102, the configurator 101 accesses a configuration database 114, which stores information about the components of the gearbox and information about the possible use of the components within the series to form the design variants.

Such an order bill of material 102 is shown by way of example in FIG. 2a and will be described below.

The header of the order BOM 102 contains general information about the design variant. In the example described here, these include a number for identifying the order, a descriptive keyword for the design variant, and information about the position of the shafts.

This wave position is coded by means of a plurality of numerals which denote the positions at which shaft stumps are provided. The possible positions are shown in FIG. 8. It is indicated by the different shaft diameters in FIG. 8 that the positions 0, 1 and 2 belong to driving shafts, while the positions 3 and 4 are assigned to driving shafts. The position 0 is provided for the driving shaft of a bevel gear set of an angle gear.

The order bill of materials illustrated in FIG. 2a thus describes a gear whose driving shaft is provided at position 2, while the driven shaft is provided at position 4. The actual parts list in the form of a table follows the header of the order parts list 102 from FIG. 2a. Each row of the table describes a part or part that belongs to the design variant.

The table is composed of seven columns:

The first column each contains a line number for identifying each entry. This can also be omitted and is used here to describe the invention.

The second column contains information about the use of the component in the form of a component usage indicator. The table of FIG. 3 provides a description of each usable component usage tag that defines the use of the component in question. The table of FIG. 3 thus defines a component usage tag catalog stored and maintained in the configuration database 114 since the configurator 101 is based on this catalog. The component usage tag catalog thus also includes component usage tags that do not appear in the current design variant. For example, in a spur gear driving and driven shaft are generally parallel, which is why about "FlaO", "LagO" and "SchO" are not used, while at a bevel gear stage the driving shaft is located at the position "0" of Figure 8, which is why the named component usage indicator for this variant must be assigned with item numbers. A table of all component usage labels is stored in the configuration database 114 and is used to create the order BOM 102 by the configurator 101.

Thus, for example, from line 8 of the order bill of material according to Fig. 2a and the below explained component usage mark catalog of FIG. 3, in particular line 19 there, it can be seen that six components with the part number "050" as screws on the flange for shaft opening at shaft position "3" are provided.

Examples of component usage marks may include, depending on the composition of the kit, a closure for an opening in a housing wall, a screw for this closure, a seal for this closure, a sealing system for a housing certain shaft position, a housing or the examples mentioned in the table of FIG. This list is not exhaustive.

The third column of the table from FIG. 2a contains the part number of the component. By this item number is the concrete component that is to be installed in the design variant according to the specified component usage indicator, uniquely identifiable.

Examples of designated by part numbers, concrete components can, depending on the composition of the kit a gear with a specific number of teeth and certain dimensions, a shaft with a certain length, a certain diameter and a specific material design, a cylinder head screw with certain dimensions, a hexagon head screw with certain dimensions , Be a housing cover in a certain form. This list is not exhaustive.

The fourth column of the table of Fig. 2a contains the number of times the component occurs in the design variant. In this case, only those components are summarized, for which the use, ie the component usage indicator, is the same. In the design variant of the example shown, the screw with the item number "050" is installed 24 times, six each on the flanges "Fla1" to "Fla4", which in turn are occupied by the components "040" and "041".

The fifth column of the table of Fig. 2a indicates whether the entry is a CAD part Qa = J ", no =" 0 "). For example, the manual "ManEn" and the lubricant "Oil1" are not components that are included in a CAD representation of the design variant. Therefore, the entries in question have a "0" in the fifth column.

The sixth column of the table from FIG. 2a indicates whether the component is a wearing part (yes ⁼ _> .1 "_> no =" 0 "). With this information, the wear parts of the design variant can be highlighted in a CAD drawing.

The seventh column of the table of Fig. 2a indicates what type of component it is. The values "1" are intended for a single part, "2" for an assembly, ie a group of individual parts, and "0" for other parts In the construction variant of the example shown, the cover "070" is marked as an assembly because it with the eyelets "080" and the seal "075" forms a unit. Thus, the eyelets "080" are also not marked as a CAD part, because they are already included in the CAD representation of the cover. In a further embodiment, this column is omitted.

In each buildable job BOM 102, each component usage mark occurs at most once. Depending on the kit, some component usage labels may not appear in some variants. Depending on the structure of the kit, different variants can be formed, wherein one and the same component usage indicator is assigned in the respective parts lists 102 of the variants to different item numbers.

An order BOM 102 thus contains information about the CAD presentation, information on how the individual components of the design variant related. This information can alternatively be represented by means of a graph as in FIG. 2b. The nodes of the graph represent the concrete components of the variant, characterized by the relevant item number, and the edges represent the component usage indicator. The direction of the edges results from the respective entry in the description in the table of Fig. 3, in particular in connection with the word "for" there In addition to the nodes, the number from the table in Fig. 2a is indicated, if any is greater than 1. The component usage flags "Seal" and "Oes" are represented by dashed edges, as the components "075", "080" and "070" in the job BOM of Figure 2a are maintained as an assembly. The components mentioned are thus stored as a finished assembly.

In the illustration of Figure 2b additional information about the arrangement of the stub shafts (by designating the shaft position) and the design variant attached parts such as lubricating oil or instruction manuals are listed. In particular, lubricating oil and instruction manuals are not intended for CAD display.

The representation according to FIG. 2 b is completely derivable from the information in columns 1 to 3 of the order parts list 102 in conjunction with the list of all component usage identifiers according to the table in FIG. 3, the component usage identifiers being stored in this table in the column "component item number" This representation option makes it clear that the order BOM 102 contains more information than merely specifying the individual parts that make up the design variant is composed. Since the component usage identifiers can be used for the alphanumeric order of the individual items in the order bill of material 102, the term "run number" is also used for the component usage labels, unlike the otherwise usual runnumbers of an order bill of material, however Order BOM 102 does not use a continuous series of run numbers starting at "1" and having no gaps, but just the component usage marks required to form the concrete variant are listed together with the specific components to be used in each case. The run number otherwise only for order or reference purposes thus receives an additional function, namely the indication of the use of the relevant component in the variant defined by the order BOM 102.

The graph shown in Figure 2b contains no circles or cycles. From each node at most one directed edge goes off. This is equivalent to specifying a single use for each component usage tag. The directed edges of the graph define directional paths that invariably end at node "010." The length of a path, that is, the number of edges that make up a path, is generally different from path to path: There are paths whose Thus, it is clear that the information in the table according to Fig. 2a differs from the use of a master in which all the components would be given with respect to a basic body and in which Thus, all paths in the associated graph have the length of 1. By using graphene with diameter greater than one, the components are advantageously grouped into assemblies, for example, for a CAD representation of the assembly or for manufacturing.

The order bill of material 102 is input to a mounting module 105 as shown in FIG. The order parts list 102 can be given in the form of a paper printout, a file stored on a storage medium or on any information carrier. The input is made according to the respective information carrier.

The mounting module 105 is installed as a software algorithm on a computer system, not shown. It accesses the knowledge base database 103 via an SQL interface 104 in which, in the form of rules, pairs of component usage identifiers are assigned CAD link commands and / or CAD pattern commands. About the SQL Interface 104 determines the Montier module 105 automatically those entries, ie rules, in the knowledge base database 103, which are relevant to the order BOM 102. The mounting module 105 automatically evaluates the determined rules and creates with them via a CAD program 111, in particular CAD standard software, CAD drawings 113 which show the design variant in mounted form. For this presentation, the mounting module 105 accesses a CAX interface 110, which loads a CAD representation and / or CAD data from a metadatabase 112 via a lifecycle management software 109 and forwards it to the CAD program 111. The mounting module 105 also accesses the lifecycle management software 109 via a PLM interface 106, thus providing search pattern data 107 to the metadata database 112 or receiving search result data 108 therefrom. The search result data 108 and the search pattern data 107 can be stored on any storage medium and / or information carrier, with the information transmission shown in FIG. 1 correspondingly taking place in the carrier medium.

The device according to FIG. 1 thus comprises at least three databases. A first database in the form of the metadata database 112, on which at least the CAD data required for a CAD representation of the individual components of the kit are stored, a second database in the form of the configuration database 114, which contains at least one list of all in the series and a third database in the form of a knowledge base database 103 in which rules are stored, each rule relating two component usage identifiers, respectively.

At least the knowledge base database 103 is entered completely before a job BOM 102 is created for a desired configuration variant.

In principle, these databases can be combined in a single database. For practical reasons, a different standard software is used for the administration of the databases, so that the databases are physically, even spatially separated, depending on the size of the database. The data transfer to and from the databases takes place in this case advantageously via the Internet or via an intranet.

Figure 4a / b shows an excerpt from an example of a knowledge base database. Each row of the table defines a rule. The order of the rules is initially arbitrary and results preferably from the requirement to be able to maintain the knowledge base database in a structured manner.

Each rule uses exactly two component usage identifiers, referred to in the table under the name run number, abbreviated LfNrI and LfNr2. Each rule describes the determination of exactly one degree of freedom of motion which the respective components that can be respectively assigned to the component usage labels have relative to each other. In per se rotationally symmetrical parts, such as waves, the determination of the degree of freedom associated with the symmetry is preferably carried out by a symmetry breaking, for example by the additional requirement that the feather keys of the waves by default up its. The determinations are made by means of the data entered in the columns "Linking", "Designation 1" and "Designation 2." Rules of the knowledge base database 103 relating to component usage marks not listed in the order BOM 102 of FIG , were suppressed in Figure 4a / b to preserve clarity.

In the case of a linking rule, "designation" hereby denotes the designation of a geometric auxiliary figure defined in the CAD drawing of each component of the kit that can be assigned to the component usage identifier listed under "LfNri", and "designation2" in an analogous manner the designation of a geometric auxiliary figure for the component usage indicator listed under "LfNr2". As auxiliary figures are plane, surfaces, even curved, in particular physically given as surfaces or boundary surfaces, edges, even non-rectilinear, especially physical, axes or points and regular arrangements, patterns, predictable.

For example, FIG. 7 shows the component "040", a flange, as a 3D model 700. In particular, the following auxiliary figures are named: the cylindrical surface 701 with the designation "F_CF_1", the cylindrical surface 703 with "F_CF_3", the annular surface 702 with "F_PF_1", the surface on the back of the 3D model 700 opposite surface 705 with "F_PF_3" and the annular surface 704 with "F_PF_2". In addition, a pattern "screwing pattern" is defined, in which the bolt hole belonging to the surface 703 is used as the reference point, and the remaining screw holes 706 are used as sketch points, since the component usage marks "Fla1", "Fla2", "Fla3" and "Fla4" are principally used in the example For interchangeable parts stand, see Figure 5, the excellent auxiliary figures with names are the same.

The identification of auxiliary figures in the 3D models of the individual components is generally based on how the individual components are connected to each other in the assembled state. Each of the auxiliary figures serves to establish a physical freedom of movement.

In the case of discrete or continuously rotationally symmetrical components, first the axis of symmetry or a cylinder jacket surface arranged concentrically with respect to this is characterized. Such rotationally symmetrical components are, for example, shafts, screws, bearings, seals, spacers, teeth or rotationally symmetrical housing parts. For example, this auxiliary figure in a shaft, the surface of an axial portion of the shaft, which has a constant diameter, be, in the case of a screw, the envelope of the

Threaded area, in the case of a bearing, the inner surface of the inner bearing ring, the outer surface of the outer bearing ring or a cylindrical surface describing the center of the rolling elements, in the case of a seal or spacer sleeve, the inner surface or the outer surface, with respect to a radial direction, in the case of a toothed part, the inner surface of the Center hole or a cylinder jacket surface, which describes the top circle, the root circle or the pitch circle of the toothing part, and in the case of a rotationally symmetrical housing part, the radially inner receiving surface for a bearing ring. It is therefore in this award of symmetry-breaking, geometric features, such as the thread of a screw or the keyways of a shaft or the teeth of a gearing part, apart.

The rules that should associate these auxiliary figures with other auxiliary figures for enforcing a partial alignment, include alignment commands that refer to a likewise rotationally symmetrical auxiliary figure, in which the associated component is received or which receives the associated component. Examples of such pairings include

- The outer surface of a shaft portion with the inner surface of a

Gearing part, a spacer sleeve or a bearing ring, these Inner surface is part of the contact surface between shaft and toothing part, spacer sleeve or bearing ring,

- The envelope of the thread of a screw with the inner surface of a bore into which the screw is screwed, being apart from the details of the threads of the screw,

the outer surface of an outer bearing ring with the inner radial surface of the bore of a housing part, the bearing ring in. The outer surface of an outer bearing ring with the inner radial surface of the bore of a housing part the hole is inserted.

These pairings thus relate to the rotationally symmetrical surfaces which touch each other in the assembled gear or which, for example in the case of a thread or a feather key, reproduce these contact surfaces in rotationally symmetrical approximation.

To align the rotationally symmetrical component with respect to another component, the identification of at least one additional auxiliary figure is necessary. For this purpose, a plane is selected which is arranged perpendicular to the axis of symmetry, and which describes the axial relative position. This level describes up to which axial position the components in question are pushed together. For the selection of a plane, one orients itself to the stops and contact surfaces actually occurring in the assembled gearbox. For example, in the case of a shaft, this may be the axial side surface of a shoulder against which a bearing inner ring or a spacer sleeve rests, in the case of a screw the support surface of the screw head, in the case of a bearing the axial side surface of a bearing ring, with which the bearing on a shaft shoulder, a spacer ring or axially fixed in a housing bore, in the case of a seal, a side surface with which the seal is axially fixed in a groove, in the case of a spacer sleeve, a side surface with which the spacer sleeve on a toothing part or on a bearing ring or on a shaft shoulder or is axially fixed to a spring ring, in the case of a toothed part, the side surface of a gear hub or a wheel bore limiting radial region of a side surface, with the or the Gearing part is axially fixed by contact with a spacer sleeve, a shaft shoulder, a spring ring, a retaining ring or a bearing ring, or in the case of a rotationally symmetrical housing part, the bearing surface of the housing part on a further housing part or the axially oriented inner side surface, ie the bottom of a bore for a camp recording.

The rules that are to associate these auxiliary figures with other auxiliary figures for enforcing a partial alignment include alignment commands that refer to another auxiliary level, with the two auxiliary levels touching the assembled gearbox or the two auxiliary levels in the assembled gearbox being at a fixed distance from each other, which is predetermined, for example, by an additionally inserted component.

If for the complete determination of the remaining third degree of freedom also be set to allow, for example, only the joint movement of two components about the common axis of rotation, so this is a plane used that describes the contact surface for this determination in the assembled gear or the for the definition required, the rotational symmetry breaking geometric shape characterized. For example, in the case of a gearing part, this is a circumferentially facing side surface of the groove or groove for the key or a plane containing the symmetry axis which marks the center plane in the circumferential direction of this recess or groove, or the contact line in a position in a tooth flank. In the case of a shaft connection, ie clutch, an axial plane is selected, which characterizes the attack surfaces, ie bevels, for the power transmission, or a plane that lies in this attack surface.

For marking non-rotationally symmetrical components, such as housing covers or housings of attachments such as pumps, pressure equalization or oil reservoirs, filters, coolers or electronic components, the inner surfaces of at least two holes in the components are used, the holes for mounting screws, rivets or Pick up bolts, and a plane that describes the physical bearing surface of the component on another component. Thus, it is clear that at least one auxiliary figure is marked on each component, which has a clearly defined symmetry axis of rotational symmetry.

In the characterization of the auxiliary figures, it is understood that in each case not the infinitely extended mathematical abstraction is chosen, but a finite, for example, based on the dimensions of the component, proportion thereof.

In the "Link" column in FIG. 4a / b, in the case where the rule is a join rule, the CAD join command is specified which places the two auxiliary figures in a spatial relationship by defining a spatial, relative degree of freedom of movement of the two auxiliary figures The list of possible shortcut commands includes the standard links known in standard CAD software, congruent, parallel, perpendicular, tangential, concentric, spaced, angled, and the shortcut command is one of mutual orientation

Link orientation can be specified further, the values being aligned and counter-directionally assignable. But there are also extended links providable.

For example, row 123 of the table in FIG. 4b describes a join rule in which a face "F_PF_1" in the component is linked congruently and counter-aligned with a face "F_PF_2" in the component with the component usage flag "Fla4" More specifically, in this example, a bearing for the flange for shaft opening at shaft position "4" relative to the flange is oriented such that one surface on the bearing, here the plane passing through a side surface of the bearing, with one surface of the flange, here the plane in which the contact surface of the flange extends with the bearing, is congruent, wherein the bearing is arranged on a fixed side of the flange. Referring to Figure 7, a side surface of the bearing is brought into registration with the surface 704.

For example, line 140 of the same table describes that the inner surface of the

Central bore of the gear with the component use identifier "Zah2", surface "F_CF_1", concentric with the cylinder surface "F_CF_Zahnrad" of the shaft with the component use mark "Wel2" is arranged, said cylindrical surface is given by the cylindrical contact surface of the shaft with the gear. In the case of a pattern rule, "Designation2" designates a designation defined in the CAD drawing of each component of the kit that is assignable to the component use designation under "LfNr2". The entry under "DesignationT can be left blank.

For example, the pattern rule 109 in Fig. 4a describes that the bolt with the component usage mark "Schi" should be patterned according to the pattern labeled "bolting pattern" in the flange with the component usage flag "Fla1." Such a pattern is shown in Fig. 6b: Shown is a screenshot of a standard CAD software, where the output feature 601, a screw, is patterned, and in the left-hand window is a pattern list 604 that describes a derived circle pattern so that copies of the screw are made at the free corners of a predetermined hexagon which forms patterned features 602. Accordingly, in the order BOM 102, with the

Component usage identifier "Schi" listed six bolts "050".

The knowledge base database 103 contains further information for each rule:

First, in the column "WL", which wave position the rule applies to, is denoted as described above, where a single zero means that the rule applies to all wave positions.

Secondly, the column "Config." Indicates which CAD presentation form is to be selected: Possible values here are "standard" or "details" or "reduced", with the latter, for example, representing a toothed wheel as a cylinder without teeth. Further possible designations for values of this column can be freely selected in further developments.

Third, in the "Alignment" column, if the link is used to finalize the components - then the entry is "mandatory" - or if it is pre-positioned - then the entry is "Location." Advantage of using Prepositions is, The "alignment" column thus provides space for a binary-valued attribute, which can be used when creating a 3D model of the configuration variant for the order of the rules. For example, the parallel alignment of two axes which are perpendicular to each other, in terms of relative orientation ambiguous. Preliminary alignment of the second axis at a third and subsequent orientation of the second axis at the first may eventually remove this ambiguity.

Fourth, a comment column is provided. These may be clues that appear in a CAD drawing of the particular design variant, or comments about the documentation, or parameters reserved for extensions to the system.

Fifth, there is provided an "active" column in which the logical values may be "true" or "false" for enabling or disabling individual rules Thus maintenance of the knowledge base database 103 is feasible.

Figure 9 shows an alternative example of a knowledge base database. Here, digit sequences are used to identify the component usage identifiers, and columns are provided for four additional parameters. Columns "Designation1" and "Designation2" contain auxiliary geometric shapes with type, "A" for Axis, "F" for surface, "E" for layer, and label in the "Link / Pattern" column are links or patterns with type, "V" for join and "M" for pattern, and join command specified. As linking instructions, at least the above-mentioned standard linking instructions can be used. The rules with the numbers 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 therefore describe the combination of two axes. Rule number 15, for example, describes the patterning of screws. Since these screws do not depend on the arrangement of the driving or driven shaft, rule 15 is included

The rule thus applies to all shaft positions A confusion of this entry with the designation shaft position "0" according to Fig. 8 can be avoided, for example, by taking into account the fact that the specification of a drive shaft always includes the specification of an output shaft requires. An entry from a digit therefore represents a special case. In alternative embodiments, the all-quantor is marked by a separate symbol.

FIG. 10 shows the algorithm implemented to generate the CAD drawing in the mounting module 105. In step 1001, a structure list 1002 is created from the order BOM 102. For this purpose, a table is created in which each component usage indicator of the order BOM 102, which designates a CAD part, is written to a new line. The resulting structure list 1002, for example, from FIG. 2a is shown in FIG. 11. In each line, as shown, in addition to the component usage flag, the article number, the wear part flag, and the number from the order BOM 102 are copied, and a counter "Priority", a flag "found in knowledge base and BOM", a flag " found PLM document ", each with the starting value 0, and set up three more columns. The counter is used for later sorting of the entries in the structure list 1002, the flags are used for error monitoring and error detection.

As shown in FIG. 10, the structure list 1002 is processed further in a first loop: In a step 1003, the component usage indicator of the topmost entry in the structure list is selected. In the order bill of material 102 of FIG. 2a this is "go".

Subsequently, in step 1004, a sublist 1005 is created, in which all those rules from the knowledge base database 103 are entered for which the first component usage indicator of the rule, ie the component usage identifier entered in the knowledge base database 103 in the relevant rule under LfNrI is selected component usage indicator.

For this purpose, the knowledge base database 103 is embodied as an SQL database and has an SQL interface via which the montier module 105 transmits search queries and receives search results.

For example, according to the knowledge base database of FIG. 4a / b, this sub-list 1005 for the component usage flag "Go" consists of no element, while a corresponding sub-list for "Schi" contains the rules 108, 109, and 110.

This sub-list 1005 is now evaluated in a second loop.

In step 1006, the top entry of sublist 1005 is selected. In the query 1007, it is checked whether the second component usage flag of the selected rule is included in the texture list 1002. This is done in a loop in which it is checked for each row entry of the structure list 1002 whether its component usage identifier matches the currently considered second component usage identifier.

If the answer is positive (Y), then the rule is relevant to the current design variant, and at step 1008 the number of the rule is noted in the structure list 1002 in the "links" column to the selected component usage flag and at step 1009 becomes one the counter "Priority" increments to the second component usage flag of the current rule and, on the other hand, the flags "Found in knowledge base and BOM" are set to both component usage flags.

Alternatively, the rules for a component are stored in an array and a pointer to the relevant array is noted in "Links".

Under "Links" or in the mentioned array also found pattern commands are noted.

If the answer to query 1007 is negative (N), then step 1010 is proceeded directly.

In the query 1010 it is checked whether there are further rules in the sub-list 1005.

If this is the case (Y), then in a next step 1011 the next following rule is selected from the sub-list 1005 and the method continues with step 1007.

If the answer to the query 1010 is negative (N), then the sub-list 1005 is completely evaluated, ie the second loop is ended, and the process continues with step 1012.

In query 1012 it is checked whether there are further entries in the structure list 1002. If this is the case (Y), then in a next step 1013 the next following component usage indicator in the structure list 1002 is selected and the method continues with step 1004.

If the answer to the query 1012 is negative (N), then the structure list 1002 is completely evaluated, ie the first loop ends, and the method continues with step 1014.

In step 1014, the structure list for the order BOM 102 of FIG. 2a includes the information indicated in FIG.

In the query 1014 it is checked whether the flag "found in knowledge base and BOM" is set for each component usage indicator in the structure list.

If this is not the case, an error message about a faulty knowledge base database is output in step 1022, and the algorithm terminates.

If the answer to the query 1014 is positive (Y), then in step 1015 the noted links are ordered for each component usage identifier of the structure list 1002. Rules with the value "Position" under "Orientation" should be first, rules that connect surfaces, planes or edges, second, rules that connect axes, third and rules that describe pattern commands, fourth Job. Within peer-to-peer rules, order by increasing rule number. This regulatory requirement results from the peculiarities of the CAD standard software 111 used in dealing with links. For example, if the alignment of axes leads to uncertainties rather than the alignment of layers, then the sorting of the

Links in the structure list 1002 give priority to the planes in front of the axes. Likewise, the order of peer row entries is advantageously controllable by an order in the component usage tag catalog.

In step 1016, the structure list is ordered by the descending counter value in the "priority" column, and within the same-ranking entries, the arrangement decides in the list of component usage identifiers as stored in the table in Figure 3 or in the configuration database 114 Thus, the uppermost entry, which relates to the housing, remains in Figure 12. This can also be read off alternatively in Figure 2b, since edges end at the housing, but no edges leave the housing However, the knowledge base database does not necessarily coincide with the graph of FIG. 2b. For example, it may be advantageous to align a shaft in the axial direction of a bearing, but to define the shaft axis concentrically in the bore of the housing.

In step 1017 in FIG. 10, the CAD drawing of the associated article number in the metadatabase 112 is searched for each component usage indicator. If a CAD drawing is present, then its C_ID number is noted in the structure list 1002 and the flag "found PLM document" is set there.

In the query 1018 it is checked whether all flags "found PLM document" are set, if this is not the case (N), then the algorithm terminates after a corresponding error message 1023.

If the answer to the query 1018 is positive (Y), then all the necessary data is provided for creating the assembly drawing of the design variant.

In step 1019, the now filled and ordered structure list 1002 is present, as shown in FIG. 13 for the example under consideration.

In step 1020, the entries of the structure list 1002 are evaluated by means of an additional program for producing a 3D CAD model (113, 1021, 1024, 1025) of the design variant. This additional program is integrated as a display module in the mounting module 105 and will be described below in connection with FIG. 14. In particular, the CAD module drawings of the components noted in the structure list 1002 are loaded into a CAD standard software 111 by the presentation module and linked or patterned in the given order by means of the noted and sorted rules. The CAD standard software 111 creates a 3D model of the configuration variant under the guidance of the presentation module.

An example of a view of a finished CAD model in the CAD standard software 111 is shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b in the form of a screenshot. In the left-hand window of the display, in FIG. 6a, the links are indicated as a link list 603 in typical form and the pattern commands in the form of a pattern list 604 are shown in FIG. 6b. In join list 603, join instructions 605, which may be standard join instructions as described, are each associated with a first linked component 606 and a second linked one Component 607 specified. In the designated link so the housing "010" and the flange for shaft opening at shaft position 4 "040" aligned with respect to an auxiliary figure congruent, see. Figure 2a and Figure 3.

Figure 5 shows the output of the CAD drawing as a 3D drawing with

Component Use Indicator 501. In the upper illustration of Figure 5, the lid 502 has been hidden to reveal the inside of the transmission.

After making the 3D model and outputting representations derived therefrom on paper 1021, on a monitor 1024 or storing the 3D model on a storage medium 1025, the algorithm terminates. With the CAD standard software 111, further representations can be derived from the 3D model, for example exploded views, sectional representations, detailed representations. In order to derive sectional representations, planes are preferably defined on housing parts or other components to which they can be referenced to the desired sectional representations.

Figure 14 shows the algorithm implemented in the presentation module. In a first step 1301, the presentation module accesses the CAX interface 110, which then loads the CAD data required for the 3D module from the metadata database 112 into the CAD standard software 111.

In a next step 1302, the presentation module of the CAD standard software 111 issues the command to create an assembly.

In a next step 1312, the presentation module of the CAD standard software 111 issues the command to insert the topmost component in the sorted structure list 1002 into the assembly.

In a next step, the presentation module checks whether a link is noted for the component in the structure list 1002. If this is not the case (N), then the presentation module continues with the processing of step 1308. Otherwise (Y), the presentation module checks if the second component involved in the association is already inserted in the assembly.

If this is not the case (N), then the presentation module of the CAD standard software 111 commands in step 1305 to insert the second component involved in the link into the assembly. Otherwise (Y), proceed directly to step 1313.

In step 1313, the presentation module of the CAD standard software 111 issues the commands indicative of geometric relationships noted in the respective linkage of the respective components

To select auxiliary figures and execute the noted link, or if necessary, the pattern command. Thus, the respective components are aligned or fixed with respect to the limited degree of freedom with the rule in question.

In step 1306, the presentation module checks if further rules for the first part are noted in the texture list 1002. If so (Y), the next rule is selected and the process proceeds to step 1304. Otherwise, (N) proceeds to step 1308.

In step 1308, the links for the first component listed at the top in the structure list 1002 are thus processed.

In step 1308, the presentation module checks to see if more components are listed in the tree list. If this is the case (Y), the next component is selected, and the process proceeds to step 1303. Otherwise (N), all components have been processed and the process continues to step 1310.

In step 1310, all links of all components are processed, and the finished calculated 3D model 1311 is output. This output preferably takes place via a monitor or via other suitable display means.

Preferably, the calculated 3D model 1311 is stored in the metadatabase 112.

After creating the 3D model 1311, the presentation module ends. The user can now, for example, constructive special requests that are not in the configuration were detectable, insert later and thus create individually tailored design drawings.

The invention is not limited to the data formats and data sizes disclosed in the description and in the figures. Alternative forms of arrangement of the columns and rows, or for example arrangement in lists, are possible, and the information content is expandable by including additional information in each row of the table. Likewise, the illustrated tables can be combined into a total matrix or divided into sub-tables.

The same applies to the description of the deposit and transfer of data. The invention is not limited to the concrete forms described. These were only selected to make the presentation clearer and easier. Thus, in particular, the invention with regard to the deposit of the contents of the figures is not limited to the formatting, arrangement or coding used in these figures.

From the description it can be seen that the component usage indicator serves as a placeholder for the concrete components, which in turn are identified by the article number. The component usage indicator is thus a characteristic that indicates the use of certain components in a specific, abstract, so not related to a specific variant of the series, given position on the variant of the series, thus a component position number. The

Component usage indicator thus indicates the function that a component exerts in a group of variants when installed at the position designated by the component usage label. In this case, the components that can be assigned to a component usage indicator must have matching characteristics. These matching features are at least for the component typical geometric auxiliary figures, which must be defined in the CAD drawings of the relevant components. For example, in the case of a screw, such auxiliary figures may be the axis of the screw and the surface in contact with the receiving part in the screwed state of the screw head, or the envelope of the thread and said surface. The defined auxiliary figures are used to determine the spatial position of the component. For symmetrical components, this does not have to be completely defined. In the sense of the DIN standard DIN-V 4002-2, the components are thus objects whose characteristics are in particular the aforementioned geometric auxiliary figures. The component usage identifiers are object classes in this regard. The component usage marks advantageously take over the tasks associated with item numbers in technical drawings, in particular the identification of the components of a construction variant or an assembly in a technical drawing. These component usage numbers, or component position numbers, extend the task of ordinary item numbers to designate component parts having the same function, such as the bearing of a shaft in a particular shaft position or a screw for the maintenance cover of the transmission, with the same component usage designation or the same component usage designation in different design variants become.

The invention is not limited to the terms used. The terms serve to clarify the hierarchy in which the data of the kit are organized. Other term systems are therefore useful in describing the invention. An alternative term for component usage identifier is, for example, run number or component position number.

One advantage of the invention is, among other things, that as far as possible all work steps are processed with the respectively minimum required amount of data by considering object classes instead of the objects having features.

In alternative embodiments, other data is used instead of geometric auxiliary figures as features that are usable for determining the relative spatial arrangement of two components.

In further exemplary embodiments, further CAD drawing types can be created by means of the mounting module 105, for example exploded views, drawings with color-coded wear parts, two-dimensional projections, sectional views,

Partial representations, assemblies or functional models that simulate the motion of the moving parts, or a collision check to see if parts are overlapping. In a collision check, in particular, it is checked whether individual components overlap. If this is the case, the configuration was faulty and the user receives a corresponding message. This avoids that a configuration error is not noticed until a subsequent assembly of the physically-real components. An exception in this respect gearing parts that must overlap for a torque transmission when the gearing is shown only as a cylinder. Here either the error message is suppressed on overlapping of toothing parts, or it is turned on the representation of the toothing and each toothed part about its axis of symmetry until a fit, so a physically effective tooth engagement is reached, wherein after a rotation through 360 ° without fit result Error message is issued and being already in fit toothing parts are moved, so are rotated around their respective axis so that the correct tooth engagement is maintained, so that the respective teeth mesh properly with each other.

If there is a gear toothing, in which the gears mesh with each other as intended, either achieved by appropriate rules or as described by successively determining the fits, so in a further embodiment, the function of the transmission on the 3D model graphically clarified and / or simulated.

In a further embodiment, an assembly instruction is created based on the order of the links. For this purpose, the rules in the knowledge base database 103 are arranged accordingly and the component usage indicator is defined accordingly. In particular, it is avoided that in a graph as in FIG. 2 b a directed edge points to an inaccessible component. It is thus arranged so that a graph as in Figure 2b from the inside to the outside, so opposite to the directed edges, reproduces the assembly order.

In another embodiment, as described below, a sequence of disassembly steps is automatically determined from a 3D model of the desired transmission variant present in the computer system. First of all, the collision monitoring of the 3D-CAD standard software is activated. Well be The alignment commands are successively resolved, whereby it is checked after each individual resolution whether the relevant component can be removed without collision. Alignment commands are first resolved, ie deactivated, which affect radial planes on rotationally symmetrical components before alignment commands are resolved that concern the axes or cylinder jacket surfaces of these components. The resolution of alignment commands concerning axial planes can be finalized. The order in which the individual components are checked for disassembly, is also based on the previously determined "priority", but now in the reverse order, for example, because a screw is easily disassembled from a housing, the housing but not in one step It is thus begun with components that (or their associated

If the collision check reveals that a component is removable from the transmission by dislodging a radial plane, the co-axial alignment will be resolved and, if appropriate, the remaining alignment in the circumferential direction, and the component will become an ordered one The remaining transmission is then continued in the manner described.

Alternatively or supportively, the order of the component usage indicator is used to determine the disassembly order as described.

If the gearbox is completely disassembled into individual parts, the ascertained ordered list, that is to say the sequence of the disassembly steps, is transmitted to the control unit 1501 of a production plant 1500 shown in FIG. 15, wherein the control unit 1501 activates at least one handling device 1503 via a control line 1502. This control unit 1501 controls the handling device 1503 in such a way that the handling device 1503 with a gripper tool 1505 movably mounted on an articulated gripper arm 1504 physically and materially grips and places in place on a tray 1506 components in the reverse order of disassembly steps 3D model is given. FIG. 15 shows by way of example a shaft 1508, a gear 1509 and a housing cover 1510 which are to be installed. Instead of on the shelf 1506, the components 1506 can also be kept in a high-bay warehouse and the handling device 1503 with a Storage and retrieval unit are provided. When inserting or fitting the components 1507, the control unit takes into account the spatial extent of the components already installed and determines a collision-free path along which the handling device 1503 the current component 1508, 1509, 1510 to his leads predetermined position. The fact that such a path exists is ensured by the dismantling order previously determined, which is now carried out in the opposite way. To establish Anpressmomenten, for example, for screws, recourse is made to specifications that are either stored in addition to the specific component or in the relevant rule, for example in one of the columns "Parami" to "Param4" in Figure 9.

In a further development, the above-described method for creating a 3D model on the control unit 1501 is additionally executable, and the control unit 1501 has input means 1513, for example via a keyboard, a mouse or a reading device of a mass memory, via which at least the rules of the knowledge base Database 103, and via output means 1512, for example a monitor, a printer, a plotter, a writing device of a mass memory and / or a further visualization means, with which at least the finished composite 3D model is output.

To create a knowledge base, for example, for the production of furniture from a modular system of furniture parts, the identification of auxiliary figures on the components based on the fact that mainly rectangular components occur. Again, the label can be based on the actually occurring contact surfaces. For example, on two boards, which are to be glued at right angles to each other to form a drawer wall or a housing, each have an end face, a side surface and an edge surface on the two components so excellent, in the mounted position depending on a side surface of a component with a Face of the other component is aligned or coincident and the edge surfaces lie in a common plane. To fix a bracket to a board, the insides of two holes are marked concentrically with the insides of holes in the board are arranged, as well as the plane which describes the bearing surface of the fitting on the board.

As a CAD standard software, a 3 D CAD system such as SolidWorks or Inventor can be used. But other, from the reference work Wikipedia, German-language edition, under the keyword "list of mechanical CAD solutions" in the version of November 29, 2006, 12:26 clock, known standard 3D CAD software can be used advantageously.

With the inventive method for generating a design drawing for a design variant, these design variants are composed of components of a kit, a command sequence for creating a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the design variant is determined in particular with a computer system based on a parts list for the design variant. To describe the use of the components in the design variant, component usage indicators are assigned in the parts list.

Claims

claims:

1. A method for producing a transmission of a series using a data processing system, wherein the transmission is composed of components of a modular system and from the components of the kit further variants of transmissions are produced, dad urch characterized

- That each component of the kit auxiliary figures are assigned, wherein at least one component is a shaft and this shaft the

Symmetryeachse of the shaft or arranged concentrically to this axis of symmetry cylindrical surface is assigned as an auxiliary figure and wherein at least one component is a toothed part and this toothing part is at least one, a side surface of the toothing part comprehensive level or a parallel plane parallel thereto assigned as an auxiliary figure,

that rules are entered into a rule memory by naming for each rule at least a first component usage identifier, a second component usage identifier, a first auxiliary character, a second auxiliary character, and an alignment command, the alignment command enforcing alignment of the first auxiliary character relative to the second auxiliary character, From the components of the kit component types are formed, wherein the components of a respective component type the same auxiliary figures are assigned, and the component use designation are each assigned to a component type and the connection of the component with one or more other

Describe component types,

that in at least one rule the alignment command forces a co-axial alignment,

- and that after completing the input of all the rules for the components of the kit o in a first step, a bill of materials of the transmission is input, wherein the entries of the bill of material each contain at least one assignment of a component to a component usage indicator, o in a second step, all the rules of the rule memory are extracted, their first component use identifier and second

In a third step, the extracted rules are applied to the components of the parts list by determining for each rule that component as the first component that is assigned to the first component usage indicator of the rule in the parts list, that component as second component is determined, which is assigned to the second component use identifier of the rule in the parts list and the first component and the second component are aligned by the orientation of the first auxiliary figure of the rule on the first component relative to the second auxiliary figure Rule is enforced on the second component, wherein after processing all the extracted rules, the gearbox is assembled from the components, o in a fourth step with a collision check an order of disassembly steps of the assembled gearbox automated we determined d o and in a fifth step to a control device of a system comprising at least one handling device, the determined sequence of disassembly steps is handed over and the control unit controls the system and processes the determined sequence of disassembly steps in reverse order and thus the system mounted the gearbox.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the components are stored as 3D models and that the auxiliary figures are marked in the SD models.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that after processing all extracted rules in the third step, the transmission is assembled as an SD model from the stored as a 3D model components.

4. Computer system for generating design drawings for design variants, wherein the design variants are composed of components of a modular system, characterized in that

1.1. a first database is provided in which data is stored for each component of the kit,

1.2. each component being characterized by a feature set,

2.1. a second database is provided in which component usage labels are stored,

2.2. wherein each component use identifier at least one component is assigned, and each variant by assigning components of the kit to

Component usage indicator from the second database is fully writable

3.1. and that a third database is provided in which rules are stored,

3.2. each rule relates two component usage identifiers, 3.3. in particular two features from the respective feature sets,

4.1. and in that a mounting module is included in the computer system, wherein on the mounting module means for selecting the rules from the third database to a list of component usage marks are provided.

5. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the stored in the first database features for each component information on geometric auxiliary figures in the CAD drawing or in the 3D model of this component for spatial alignment of the component, in particular wherein the geometric Auxiliary figures include faces, planes, axes, cylinders, lines, circles, and / or edges.

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a man-machine interface is formed, can be attributed to the components of the kit component usage identifier from the second database to form a bill of material for a design variant, wherein the man-machine interface means for data access to the second database.

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the first database for each component of the kit at least one CAD drawing or a 3D model, in particular individual part drawing, are stored.

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first database and the second database are comprised by a database.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a data interface is formed, via the CAD drawing data, in particular from the first database, and / or CAD drawing commands, such as linking commands and / or pattern commands, to a CAD Standard software can be transferred, the Montier module comprises means for controlling the CAD standard software, in particular an interface for transferring link commands and / or pattern commands is formed.

10. Use of graphs for coding the design variants of a series, wherein the variants are composed of components of a modular system, characterized in that each design variant is represented by a graph, in particular a circle-free graph, wherein the nodes of the graph exactly those in the design variant represent the components used and the edges of the graph represent physical connections between the components and the coded construction variant is passed to a computer system for automated drawing creation.

11. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one graph to a design variant has a diameter greater than 2, when the edges of the graph are provided with the weight one.

12. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each graph is directed, leaving at most one edge of each node, in particular wherein the direction of the edges substantially encodes a mounting order.

13. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edges are arranged in edge classes, wherein the number of edge classes occurring in the series genuinely smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the total number of edges in all graphs used in the series.

14. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the automated drawing production comprises a decoding, wherein for decoding rules are provided, with which each edge of each graph in

Link commands and / or pattern commands CAD standard software is translatable.

15. A method for producing a design drawing for a design variant, wherein the design variant is composed of components of a construction kit, characterized in that a user configures a design variant, in particular creates a parts list, 5 and a computer system from a database displays the CAD drawings or 3D drawings. Obtains models of provided in the design variant components and this to a CAD drawing or a 3D model of the design variant composed, in particular by means of a CAD standard software.

10 16. A method for generating a design drawing for a design variant, wherein the design variant is composed of components of a kit, characterized in that a computer system based on a parts list for the design variant, a command sequence for creating a CAD drawing or a 3D model of

15 design variant determined.

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bill of material for each bill of material entry contains information about the use of the relevant component 20 in the design variant, in particular an object class or a component usage identifier, and the determination of the command sequence based on the given in the bill of materials entry

Information about the use of the relevant component in the construction variant, in particular the object class or the component usage indicator, takes place.

18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the command sequence is read and executed by a standard CAD software, and that this CAD standard software is used to display the CAD drawing or to calculate the 3D model of the design variant.

19. A method for generating a design drawing for a design variant of a series, wherein the design variant is composed of components of a kit, characterized in that

5 is accessed to a first database in which information, in particular CAD drawings or 3D models are stored to all components of the kit, each component by a set of features, in particular geometric auxiliary figures in the respective CAD drawing or the respective 3D Model, and a second database is accessed, in which object classes, in particular

10, each feature class is characterized by a feature set, each feature class is assignable at least one component, wherein the feature set of the feature class is a subset of the feature set of the component, and a third database is accessed, are stored in the rules .

Each rule generally relates two object classes, in particular two features from the respective feature sets of components that can be assigned to the object classes.

20. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that in the third database for each rule the two object classes which are related by the rule are stored as a first and a second entry for the rule.

21. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, 25 characterized in that the design variant is created and / or configured with a configurator, wherein the configurator accesses the second database and wherein the design variant is described by a parts list.

22. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each object class uniquely characterizes the use of those components that can be assigned to the object class in the construction variants of the series, in particular by reference to a component usage indicator.

23. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a first step from a first database, the components for the design variant 5 are selected and from a second database for each selected component, an object class is selected, in particular by means of a configurator that in a second step from a computer system from a third database, the rules for the selected object classes are determined and that in a third step by a computer system based on the determined rules 10 from CAD drawings or 3D models of the selected components a CAD drawing or a 3D Model of the design variant can be created.

24. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

15 the selected object classes and the selected components for the design variant define a directed graph, where the edges of the graph represent the object class ή and the nodes of the graph respectively represent the component associated with the object class represented by the outgoing edge.

20 25. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the design variant by a graph, in particular a circle-free graph, is represented, wherein the nodes of the graph represent exactly the components used in the design variant and the edges of the graph physical connections

25 between the components, and with a system of rules from the third database being translated by a mounting module and / or presentation module running on the computer system, each edge of the graph is translated into a sequence of linkage instructions for a standard CAD software;

In particular, the linking instructions are placed in a specific order which avoids the occurrence of ambiguities in the interpretation of the links, in particular wherein the order is tailored to the CAD standard software.

35

26. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for the creation of the CAD drawing or the 3D model, a CAD standard software is used, wherein in a first step of the third step, a computer system sorts the determined rules and in a second sub-step of the third step, a computer system translates the sorted rules into standard commands of the CAD standard software, in particular while maintaining the sorting, in particular wherein the CAD drawings or 3D models, in particular individual part drawings, of all components are kept in the first database and the CAD Standard software accesses this first database.

27. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that of a Montier module in the second step, the following steps are sequentially followed: ai) for the top BOM entry of the bill of material or for the top provided for CAD representation bill of materials entry of the bill of materials In the third database, those rules are determined whose first entry is the object class of the

A.ii) step a.i) is repeated with the next BOM entry or with the next BOM entry intended for CAD display until all BOM entries have been processed.

28. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that are eliminated by a Montier module in the second step in a sub-list to each BOM entry all those determined rules for which the object class of the second entry for the rule is not included in the BOM in particular wherein the elimination occurs subsequent to step ai) or wherein the elimination for the sublists to all BOM entries occurs after processing all BOM entries, and that the determined and not eliminated rules are stored in a structure list.

29. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the non-eliminated rules of the structure list are processed as determined rules in the third step.

30. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stored in the first database features for each component include information on geometric auxiliary figures in a CAD drawing or in a 3D model of this component for spatial alignment of the component.

31. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rules describe links between geometric auxiliary figures of the feature sets of the respective object classes.

32. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each rule describes a link between two geometric auxiliary figures from the feature sets of the relevant object classes, in particular a link command of a CAD standard software.

33. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the links of the rules correspond to link commands, as used in CAD standard software and / or the links of the rules sequences of link commands, in particular pattern commands, correspond, as in CAD Standard software can be used.

34. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the links used comprise standard links, in particular the links congruent, parallel, perpendicular, tangential, concentric, spaced, biased and / or counter-aligned include.

35. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determined in the second step rules for the selected object classes are ordered with an ordering relation in the first sub-step of the third step, wherein the order determines the sequence of the link commands in the second sub-step of the third step.

36. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a base object class is determined, in particular by counting the rules for each selected object class, which relate a further selected object class with the object class, and selecting the object class with the largest one Count or by counting the incoming edges for each node of the graph that encodes the construction variant.

37. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each rule in the third database is assigned a binary-valued attribute and the rules determined in the second step are ordered by the value of this attribute, in particular when sorting the rules in the first sub-step of the third step.

38. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an ordering relation is explained on the set of usable links that is used to order the rules determined in the second step for the selected object classes, in particular when sorting the rules in the first sub-step of the third step.

39. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the order relation on the set of usable links area 5 links and / or level links and / or edge links before Achs- links and Achs-joins before pattern commands classifies.

40. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

10 is explained an ordering relation on the set of object classes used for ordering the rules determined in the second step for the selected object classes, in particular when sorting the rules in the first substep of the third step.

41. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, for each object class used in the design variant, the number of rules which relate a further selected object class to the object class is determined or

20 for each object class used in the design variant in the graph encoding the design variant, the number of edges arriving at the node representing the feature class is determined.

42. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, 25 characterized in that in the first sub-step of the third step, the object classes are arranged in descending order of the number determined for each object class used in the design class, in particular by the mounting module.

43. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a presentation module in the second sub-step of the third step accesses a CAX interface via which CAD data, in particular individual part drawings of the components of the design variant, are loaded into the CAD standard software become.

44. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a presentation module accesses the CAD-5 standard software in the second step of the third step, and in this creates an assembly in the assembly invites the component drawings of the components of the design variant, in selected these according to the rules determined the relevant auxiliary figures and these linked in accordance with the determined rules and / or eyes 10 and that the CAD standard software calculates a 3D model of the design variant.

45. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that from the 3D model of the design variant, a CAD drawing is derived, in which the 15 object classes are shown to the components as item numbers.

46. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the CAD drawings or 3D models for the components are managed with a PLM software and for the creation of the CAD drawing or the 3D model the respective current CAD Drawing version is used.

47. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

25 represent the design variants design variants of a transmission series, wherein the components are given by the usable items of the gearbox variants and the object classes denote quantities of components of the kit, which have a common reference to another component of the kit.

48. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that individual or all databases are executed as SQL databases with interfaces.

49. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display module is covered by the mounting module.

5 50. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each component of the kit auxiliary figures are assigned, wherein at least one component is a shaft and this shaft is associated with the symmetry axis of the shaft or a concentric to this axis of symmetry cylindrical surface 10 as an auxiliary figure.

51. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one component is a toothed part and this toothing part 15 at least one, a side surface of the toothing part comprehensive level or a plane parallel thereto is assigned as an auxiliary figure.

52. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

20 in a rule memory, in particular in the third database, rules are given by naming for each rule at least a first component usage identifier, a second component usage identifier, a first auxiliary figure, a second auxiliary figure and an alignment command, the alignment command relative to an orientation of the first auxiliary figure forces to the second auxiliary figure.

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53. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one rule, the alignment command forces a coaxial alignment.

54. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one rule the alignment command forces a congruent or parallel alignment of planes.

55. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after creation of a 3D model of the design variant with a collision check an order of disassembly steps of the assembled design variant is determined automatically.

56. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after creation of a 3D model of the design variant of a control device of a system comprising at least one handling device, a determined sequence of disassembly steps is transferred and the control device controls the system and the determined sequence the disassembly steps processed in reverse order and thus the system mounted the design variant.

57. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after creation of a 3D model of the design variant, a collision check is performed and that an error message is issued when the collision check results in an error.

58. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after creation of a 3D model of the design variant, a function simulation is performed or displayed.

59. A method for producing a product having a plurality of structural design variants, characterized in that in a first step, a selected design variant is defined and / or configured with a bill of materials, in a second step in a database stored rules for linking the items of the bill of materials are evaluated , derived in a third step from the evaluated rules assembly instructions and / or manufacturing instructions and / or CAD drawings and / or 3D models.

60. Use of a method according to any one of the preceding claims for projecting and / or Heilbietung design variants of a series, in particular of transmissions of a transmission series.