GOALI: Digital Layout and Assembly of Large CAD Structures

Principal Investigator: Dinesh Manocha
Funding Agency: Engineering Design and Innovation (NSF)
Agency Number:CMMI-1000579

Abstract
The objective of this proposed GOALI project between UNC Chapel Hill and Boeing is to develop a strong well-integrated research program on generating digital layouts and assemblies of large CAD structures with all the parts, interconnectivity and their motion. The PIs and students at UNC Chapel Hill will develop novel geometric and simulation algorithms for many problems related to interference computation, assembly planning, ergonomic analysis, cable layouts and light propagation. The Co-PI and other researchers at Boeing will provide CAD models of airplanes (e.g. complete model of Boeing 777) and regular feedback on the research and software implementations.

The underlying research theme is design of novel algorithms and systems for large CAD structures based on recent advances in geometric modeling, algorithmic motion planning, dynamic simulation and geometric ray tracing. This will allow us to develop efficient solutions for space utilization, accessibility problems, assembly and disassembly of objects, and reflectivity analysis. Moreover, it could allow the designers and engineers to validate the existing design or explore new design options without using physical mockups.