Overview
The Open CASCADE Canonical Recognition SDK provides a powerful solution for converting complex NURBS geometries (B-Spline and Bezier curves/surfaces) to their precise analytical equivalents. This specialized component detects and transforms mathematical representations while maintaining topological structure, delivering optimized geometry for downstream applications.
Critical for CAM domains and Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) applications, Canonical Recognition significantly improves both performance and accuracy when working with imported CAD data that requires analytical precision.
Key Features
Comprehensive NURBS Conversion
The SDK provides extensive conversion capabilities from NURBS representations to analytical forms:
NURBS 3D Curves to:
- Lines
- Circles or arcs of circles
- Ellipses or arcs of ellipses
NURBS Surfaces to:
- Planes
- Spheres
- Cylinders
- Cones
- Tori (toroidal surfaces)
Intelligent Topological Merging
Beyond simple conversion, the component offers advanced capabilities for merging adjacent topological entities:
- Combines multiple adjacent edges or faces with similar geometry into single unified entities
- Significantly reduces topological complexity of models
- Preserves connectivity between adjacent elements throughout the conversion process
- Maintains complete history of modifications for traceability
Precision-Controlled Processing
All operations are governed by user-defined tolerance settings:
- Adjustable tolerance values for both recognition and approximation phases
- Fine-grained control over conversion precision based on application requirements
- Consistent results across varying geometry complexity levels
Technical and Business Benefits
- Enhanced Algorithm Performance – Significantly improves speed and robustness of numeric operations like intersections, projections, and Boolean operations
- Expanded Geometric Intelligence – Provides access to analytical properties such as radii, centers, axes, and mathematical equations for advanced functionality
- Seamless Integration – Easy-to-use API designed specifically for Open CASCADE Technology-based applications
- Flexible Implementation – Can be integrated into data import/export workflows or as a standalone function accessible via GUI
- Cost-Effective Solution – Requires no third-party licensing
- Customization Options – Source code licensing available for specialized adaptation
Optimal Use Cases
Canonical Recognition delivers maximum value when implemented:
- After importing neutral data formats (IGES, STEP) or proprietary files (DXF, ACIS, Parasolid)
- In preparatory modules before applying specialized manufacturing or analysis algorithms
- Within CAM systems requiring analytical geometry for toolpath generation
- In metrology software for precise measurement operations
- For model optimization and data cleanup workflows
This component has been successfully applied in numerous industry-leading applications, including MarCAD (by Mahr Multisensor) and MIDAS/FX+ (by MIDAS IT), demonstrating its effectiveness in professional environments.
Technical Configuration
The Canonical Recognition SDK is built on the latest version of Open CASCADE Technology and requires no additional external software. It’s available across all platforms supported by the corresponding OCCT version.
For detailed information about operational modes and technical specifications, please refer to the comprehensive documentation provided with the component.
