Research on model data transmission in layered feature-based collaborative design

To resolve the problem of transferring a large-scale complex 3D model file in a collaborative design system, basing on analysis the feature technology, applying a feature matrix to express the feature-to-feature relationship, it was proposed a Web-based distributed feature three-layer framework of system structure, and a distributed feature manipulation mechanism which adopted a feature manipulation client + modelling modification server infrastructure has been built. This mode realized exact and efficient information exchange in collaborative environment. Taking the mainframe of Full Face Rock Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) as an example, the layered feature-based collaborative design system is developed, and its application shows that the feature manipulation mechanism can reduce the amount of transmission data in network, avoid unnecessary transferring of the complete CAD file each time and data loss, keep the consistency of model among designers and further more improve the efficiency of design.