IMProVe 2011 - Proceedings

IMProVe 2011 

International Conference 

on Innovative Methods 

in Product Design 

Proceedings: 

Abstracts Volume 

June 15 th – 17 th , 2011 

Microsoft

Proceedings of IMProVe 2011 

International Conference on 

Innovative Methods in Product Design 

San Servolo, Venice (Italy), June 15 th – 17 th , 2011 

Scientific Associations: 

ADM 

INGEGRAF 

Scientific Partners 

AIP Primeca 

IJIDeM 

Conference Organization: 

Daur - Università degli Studi di Padova 

Editors: 

Gianmaria Concheri, Roberto Meneghello, Gianpaolo Savio 

Patronages: 

Università degli Studi di Padova 

Facoltà di Ingegneria 

Dipartimento di Architettura, Urbanistica e Rilevamento (DAUR) 

© Copyright 2011 

June 2011 

Libreria Internazionale Cortina Padova 

ISBN 978-88-7784-333-3

IMProVe 2011 International Conference originates as the 5th Joint Conference of ADM 

(the Italian Associazione Nazionale Disegno di Macchine) and INGEGRAF (Asociación 

Española de Ingeniería Gráfica) and has been organized by the Design Tools and Methods 

in Industrial Engineering Lab. and the Drafting and Representation Lab., both belonging to 

the DAUR Dept. of University of Padova. From this edition, the Conference is also 

supported by A.I.P. PRIMECA (Ateliers Inter-établissements de Productique - Pôles de 

Ressources Informatiques pour la MECAnique) and IJIDeM (International Journal on 

Interactive Design and Manufacturing). This event has been proposed as a significant 

opportunity for discussing on product innovation issues from interdisciplinary point of 

views, to promote new workgroups and international networks in both engineering and 

architecture areas. 

As can be recognized by these proceedings, IMProVe 2011 has proven to be a forum of 

experts in engineering and architecture design from academia and industry, committed to 

share the different experiences, skills and ideas and to, jointly, identify new working 

hypothesis for the design of innovative products. 

The quality of the contributions was assured by a double blind review under the 

supervision of the Scientific Committee, as explained hereafter. I want to personally thank 

every member of the Scientific Committee and of the Reviewer Committee for the strong 

commitment and expertise demonstrated in this sensitive and very important task. 

Finally, I hope that this event could be one step towards a stronger and fruitful 

cooperation among ADM, INGEGRAF and AIP-PRIMECA associations, and also open new 

links with the innovative experiences in the fields of industrial design and architecture. 

Gianmaria Concheri 

IMProVe 2011 Chair 

i

IMProVe 2011 Scientific Committee note 

The IMProVE 2011 Conference has reached a quite large audience of researchers 

interested to its topics, and 223 submission have been gathered by the OpenConf CMS, 

mainly from Europe. 

The review process has been possible with the work of the Scientific Committee, to which 

other 43 colleagues, mainly Italian and Spanish, have given their cooperation to guarantee 

at least two assessments per paper. Each reviewer has assessed 5 papers (average value) 

with a variance of ±3 papers. The double blind review process has selected 156 papers 

(70%), that have been subdivided between 98 for oral presentation (63%) and 58 for the 

poster session (37%). 

Accepted for oral presentation were the papers that reached a score greater than 4/6 

(being 6 the greatest value used by the CSM). The paper assessed by a score lower than 

4/6 was selected for poster session, even if in some (few) cases the improvement received 

by the paper, on the basis of reviewer comments, brought it up to oral presentation. 

Fortunately in few cases (lower than 10) was necessary to assign the assessment to a third 

reviewer, and this allowed the Scientific Committee to solve the conflict emerged. The 

papers with scores lower than 2/6 were rejected by S.C. or withdrawn by the authors. 

Submitted abstracts: 223 

Accepted papers: 156 

Papers rejected or withdrawn after the revision process: 67 

Accepted papers origin: 

- Argentina 1 

- China 1 

- Colombia 1 

- France 13 

- Hong Kong 2 

- India 1 

- USA 1 

- Italy 82 

- Poland 1 

- Spain 61 

- Tunisia 2 

(The above list cites only the corresponding Authors. The Author nationalities include 

more countries e.g. UK, NZ, etc.). 

Number of reviewers: 82: 

- Italy 50 

- Spain 18 

- France 12 

- UK 1 

- USA 1 

iii

On behalf of the Scientific Committee, I would like to thank all people who spent part of 

their time to give a real improvement to the papers that will be presented at the 

Conference. 

A further step will remain to do. During oral sessions the quality and the interest of the 

presentations will be also assessed. On the basis of this latter and the previous scores, a 

very reduced number of papers will be selected by Scientific Committee for publication on 

the Int. J. on Interactive Design and Manufacturing. 

Good luck and thanks again 

Sergio Rizzuti 

Scientific Committee Coordinator 

iv

IMProve 2011 Scientific Commitee 


Università della Calabria 

Antonio Lanzotti 

Università di Napoli 

M. Luisa Martinez Muneta Universidad Politecnica De Madrid 

Francisco Hernandez Abad 

Universidad de Cataluña 

Patrick Martin 

Arts et Métiers ParisTech 

Xavier Fischer 

ESTIA 

Fernando Aguilar Torres 

Pedro Alvarez Peñin 

Angelo Oreste Andrisano 

Camillo Bandera 

Antonio Bello García 

Alain Bernard 

Jean-François Boujut 

Fernando Brusola Simón 

Emmanuel Caillaud 

Danilo Cambiaghi 

R.Ian Campbell 

Vito Cardone 


Paolo Conti 

Daniel Coutellier 

Carlos de San Antonio Gómez 

Paolo Di Stefano 

Georges Dumont 

Benoit Eynard 

Jesús Félez Mindán 

Andrea Giordano 

Samuel Gomes 

Horea Ilies 

Kazem Kazerounian 

Ferruccio Mandorli 

Francisco Montes Tubío 

Javier Munioguren 

Jean-Pierre Nadeau 

Universidad de Almería 

Universidad de Oviedo 

Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia 

Università di Udine 

Universidad de Oviedo 

Ecole Centrale de Nantes 

Institut National Polytechnique de 

Grenoble 

Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

Université de Strasbourg 

Università di Brescia 

Loughborough University 

Università di Salerno 

Università di Padova 

Università di Perugia 

ENSIAME 

Universidad Politécnica de Madrid 

Università dell'Aquila 

IRISA, ENS Cachan 

UTC 

Universidad Politécnica de Madrid 

Università di Padova 

UTBM 

University of Connecticut 

University of Connecticut 

Università Politecnica delle Marche 

Universidad de Cordoba 

Universidad del País Vasco 


v

Reimund Neugebauer 

Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools 

and Forming Technology IWU 

Vincenzo Antonio Nigrelli 

Università di Palermo 

Didier Noterman 

INSA Lyon 

Cesar Otero 

Universidad de Cantabria 

Guillermo Peris Fajarnes 

Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

Pascal Ray 

IFMA 

José Ignacio Rojas Sola 

Universidad de Jaén 

José Miguel Sánchez Sola 

Universidad de Cádiz 

Felix Sanz 

Universidad de la Rioja 

Eloy Sentana Cremades 

Universidad de Alicante 

Denis Teissandier Université Bordeaux 1 

Serge Tichkiewitch 

Institut National Polytechnique de 

Grenoble 

Philippe Véron 


vi

IMProve 2011 Reviewer Committee 

Fernando J. Aguilar 

Pedro Ignacio Álvarez Peñín 

Rita Ambu 

Angelo O. Andrisano 

Camillo Bandera 

Sandro Barone 

Antonio Bello García 

Luisa Bifulco 

Elvio Bonisoli 

Fabio Bruno 

Fernando Brusola 

Emmanuel Caillaud 

Danilo Cambiaghi 

Ian Campbell 

Nicola Cappetti 

Vito Cardone 

Antonio Carretero 

Alessandro Ceruti 


Paolo Conti 

Daniel Coutellier 

Giuseppe d'Acunto 

Luigi De Napoli 

Agostino De Rosa 

Luca Di Angelo 

Paolo Di Stefano 

Georges Dumont 

Larisa Dunai 

Benoit Eynard 

Jesus Felez 

Stefano Filippi 

Xavier Fischer 

Salvatore Gerbino 

Michele Germani 


Samuel Gomes 

Lapo Governi 

Horea Ilies 

Antonio Lanzotti 

Francesco Leali 

Alfredo Liverani 

Ferruccio Mandorli 

Patrick Martin 

Massimo Martorelli 

Roberto Meneghello 

Maura Mengoni 

Francisco Montes Tubío 

Sandro Moos 

Anna Morabito 

Barbara Motyl 

M. Luisa Martinez Muneta 

Javier Muniozguren 

Maurizio Muzzupappa 

Alessandro Naddeo 

Vincenzo Nigrelli 

Massimo Oliveri 

Cesar Otero 

Lia Maria Papa 

Stanislao Patalano 

Marcello Pellicciari 

Guillermo Peris Fajarnes 

Armando V. Razionale 


José Ignacio Rojas Sola 

Gregorio Romero 

Francesco Rosa 

Edoardo Rovida 

Rossella Salerno 

Carlos de San Antonio Gómez 

José Miguel Sánchez Sola 

Felix Sanz 

Gianpaolo Savio 

vii

Eloy Sentana 

Denis Teissandier 

Stefano Tornincasa 

Alberto Vergnano 

Philippe Veron 

Enrico Vezzetti 

Roberto Viganò 

viii

IMProve 2011 Local Organizing Committee 



Roberto Meneghello 

Gianpaolo Savio 

Andrea Cerardi 

Matteo Turchetto 

Massimiliano Caneri 

DAUR - Dip. Architettura, Urbanistica e Rilevamento 

Università di Padova, Italy 

ix

CONTENTS 

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS 11 

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN AND ERGONOMICS 13 

Design Semantics: Even hybrid Motorcycles need to make noise 14 

Tracing the Evolution of Automobile design: Factors influencing the 

development of aesthetics in automobiles from 1885 to the present 14 

Application of graphic expression in the design of “New Rolling System for 

Horizontal Blinds” applied to doors 15 

Ergonomic design and analysis of a post in a stall 16 

Evaluation of the Experiential Levels of CPGs (Consumer Packaged Goods) 

using 3D Modelling 17 

Office furniture design for wheelchair user 17 

New comfort evaluation criteria: application on movie-theatre design 18 

Synthetic 19 

Validation of a new index for seat comfort assessment based on objective 

and subjective measurements 20 

VIRTUAL REALITY AND INTERACTIVE DESIGN 23 

Virtual acoustic environment interface for sound source localization training 24 

Augmented Reality integration in Product Development 24 

A method for systematic usability evaluation of interactive product 

interfaces 25 

Dynamic Splines for interactive simulation of elastic beams in Augmented 

Reality 26 

A product innovation method based on the synergy between TRIZ and 

Interaction Design 27 

Mixed prototyping environment with different video tracking techniques 28 

June 15 th – 17 th , 2011, Venice, Italy 

1 

IMProVe 2011 - Proceedings

Augmented Reality: an innovative alternative for the collaborative design on 

construction’s projects 28 

KNOWLEDGE BASED ENGINEERING AND PRODUCT DATA EXCHANGE AND 

MANAGEMENT 31 

Digital document management in the conceptual design process of product 32 

Towards a “high productive design methodology” dedicated to modular 

product design using a Knowledge Configuration approach 33 

Vertical metadata in learning objects to recovery the industrial historical 

heritage 34 

A proposal to incorporate the Value Analysis/Value Engineering techniques 

into a PLM system 35 

LeanCost: knowledge-based tool for early product cost estimation 35 

KBE approaches in preliminary design: a case study 36 

GEOMETRIC MODELLING AND ANALYSIS 39 

Parametric Modeling of Free-Form Surfaces for Progressive Addition Lens 40 

A fast algorithm for manifold reconstruction of surfaces 41 

Modeling methods in parametric design. Order matrix 42 

A parametric associative modelling of aeronautical structural concepts 

under C0, C1 or C2 continuity constraints 43 

Geometric modelling of metallic foams 44 

Development of an algorithm for a triangular approach to the sphere based 

on the Platonic solids using MATLAB scripts. 45 

Shape optimization of smooth surfaces with arbitrary topology 46 

Characteristics of conic segments in Bézier form 46 

Constrained fitting of B-Spline curves based on the Force Density Method 47 

INTEGRATED PRODUCT AND PROCESS DESIGN 49 

Influence of geometrical characteristics on eco-designed products 50 

A computer tool to extract feasible assembly sequences from a product CAD 

model, in automated way 51 


2 


Adaptation and implementation of a process of innovation and design within 

a SME 52 

Design for recycling problematic: application to composite parts 52 

A novel tool for pneumatic spindle design 53 

A novel method for sensitivity analysis and characterization in integrated 

engineering design 54 

Analysis tool of the management of integrated systems of implementation in 

the design of systems of industrial organization in Smes industrial devoted 

to mounts and electrical installations 55 

Shape Similarity: Methods and Industrial Applications 56 

A survey on systematic innovation strategies for product design and 

development 57 

A web-based Platform to design Energy Efficient Electric Motors 58 

Integrated Design of Robotic Workcells for High Quality Machining 59 

Understanding a particular semantic dimension: how selecting the products 

for evaluation tests? 60 

Integrated product and process design for microproduct development via 

microforming 61 

A Procedure for Early Environmental Assessment of Industrial Products 62 

Solving an engineering problem in shipbuilding by Triz method 62 

IMAGE PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS 65 

Image Processing and Tactile Methodologies of a Navigation System for 

Visually Impaired People 66 

Automated dyeing of free-form leather patch edges: a Machine Vision based 

system 66 

Automatic image-based car profile character line recognition 67 

The detection of petroglyphs through digital image processing. The 

particular case of the stone inside the chapel of Saint Bartolomé (Lugo- 

Spain) 68 

Automatic alignment of multi-view range maps by optical stereo-tracking 69 


3 


Automatic detection and tracking of planar markers in a stereo-vision 

system 70 

Fast Correction of Tiled Display Systems on Planar Surfaces 71 

Evolution of the Design and Decoration Processes of Ceramic Tiles 71 

REVERSE ENGINEERING 73 

Automation of the finishing process of steel yacht hulls based on optical 

scanning 74 

Construction of a geometric reference model for automatic non-ideality 

evaluation of an acquired high-density workpiece 75 

On the performance of several stereo calibration methods and models 76 

Computation of optimal acquisition viewpoints for the 3D optical inspection 

of mechanical components 76 

Experimental analysis for error compensation of laser scanner data 77 

New CAD/CAM process: an elaboration of the geometrical matrices of 

rosette 78 

SIMULATION AND EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES 81 

Numerical fatigue life evaluation of an innovative internal combustion 

engine shaft 82 

Development of a test machine for the tappet characterization 82 

An investigation on the validity of 3D clothing simulation for garment fit 

evaluation 83 

Simulating airport operations in a synthetic environment 84 

Design Of Simulation Experiments method for Injection Molding process 

optimization 85 

Virtual prototype development for comfort assessment of occupational 

footwear sole 86 

GEOMETRIC PRODUCT SPECIFICATION AND TOLERANCING 89 

An Extracting Points Strategy for Flatness Measurement on Components by 

means of CMM 91 

Integration of tolerances in the mechanical product process 91 


4 


The geometrical specification in concurrent product design 92 

Influence of form errors in plane surfaces assemblies 93 

Algorithm to calculate the Minkowski sums of 3-polytopes dedicated to 

tolerance analysis 93 

Experimental evaluation of convex difference surface for planar joint study 94 

Assembly analysis for spot-welded compliant assembly: Guidelines for 

formalizing the plasticity contribution to tolerance analysis 95 

Form errors estimation in free-form 2D and 3D geometries 96 

DESIGN METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 97 

Redesign of an auto-levelling base for submarine seismic sensor 98 

Measuring dynamical parameters for spherical objects: Application for 

sports training 99 

Structural and Topological Optimization in Robot Design 99 

Preliminary Design of a New Bridge System for a Modern Mine Hunter 

Vessel 100 

Study of the impact of a bomb on the side of a vessel and validation by 

comparing the original sheet with numerical simulation 101 

Mathematical modelling and simulation of an adjustable-stiffness spring 102 

Design of physical prototypes to analyze aerodynamic effects 102 

Design optimization based on eco-design and mechanical analysis 103 

Development of a trade-off function for robust optimization problems in 

design engineering 104 

Design of a device for stability control system, to decouple loads, for an 

optimised maintenance in hostile environment 105 

Design optimization: management of large solution spaces and 

optimization algorithm selection 106 

A CAD toolbox for Composite Materials Modelling and Drawing 107 

Improving Helicopter Flight Simulation with Rotor Vibrations 107 

Optimization by Particle Swarm Algorithms of an UAV performed by Hot 

Wire Cutting Techniques 108 


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Decision support system to design autonomous microsystems 109 

3D CAD and multi-domain simulation integration for Energy Scavenger 

design 110 

ENGINEERING METHODS IN MEDICINE 111 

An integrated methodology for functional simulation of dental prosthesis 112 

Design of a new tibial intramedullary nail 113 

A Novel Method of Removing Artifacts in Dental CT Images 113 

3D facial symmetry evaluation from high-density scanned data 114 

Methods and tools dedicated to shoes customization for people with 

diabetes 115 

Structural analysis of a posterior stability total knee joint replacement 116 

Studying the influence of thread features in osseo-integrated implants 117 

Analysis and design of a thrombectomy device by using simulation 

techniques 118 

Innovative design of customized surgical devices for mandibular 

rehabilitation 119 

Analysis of TMJ replacement using a finite element model 120 

A CA system for RGP contact lens design 120 

Shape modeling and analysis of a human eye based on individual 

experimental data 121 

REPRESENTATION TECHNIQUES 123 

Main axonometric system related views as tilt of the coordinate planes 124 

Parameter Combinatorial Diagram. Application to the study and analysis of 

Hydrological Simulation Models. 124 

Heaven in the stone 125 

The CGI production in San Francesco’s church in Padova 126 

TEACHING PRODUCT DESIGN AND DRAWING HISTORY 127 

“Let's take a look to the project” 128 

Parametric Cad in the teaching of drawing for Mechanical Engineer 128 


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From Research to Sustainable Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Which 

Competences? 129 

Safety signage made easy using parametric CAD-based software 130 

Engineering designer curricula and creativity development 131 

Graphical formulary of statically determinate and indeterminate beams 131 

Leonardo’s Civil Bridges 132 

Improving a CAD tool to simplify the design process of electrical schematics 

oriented to industrial-machine control 133 

CAD, BIM, GIS and other tricks of the computer science in the education of 

the Building Engineer 134 

Teaching Methods for Concept Design and Prototyping 135 

Designing an interactive web manager applied to the development of spatial 

abilities 136 

Evolution of graphic representation applied to chemical engineering 137 

Use of an Open-Source PLM solution to improve teamwork performance in 

product design courses 138 

Teaching the rules of the space: the Olympic Theater in Sabbioneta 139 

SURVEYING, MAPPING AND GIS TECHNIQUES 141 

Virtual reconstruction of the door of the Apostles of the Insigne Collegiate 

Church of Santa María of Gandia Spain 142 

Landform of Alicante province by using GIS 142 

Survey and graphic interpretation of underground cellars 143 

Analysis of the geometry of nature. Particular case of traditional 

underground cellars 145 

The artesonado of the hunters' lounge. Palace of the infantado of 

guadalajara 146 

Architectural survey and Robotics: new frontiers in study, preservation and 

restoration of historical sites 147 

Hydrologic moment of a watershed area 148 


7 


A GIS approach to monitor territorial transformations: digital assessment of 

the cycle paths in Paestum 148 

BAECULA battle Geographic Information System 149 

Methodology for the metric restoration of the historical cartography 

applied to Francisco Coello´s cartografic series of the Royal Site of Aranjuez 150 

Determination of orthometric heights from LiDAR data 151 

Geometric processing of GeoEye-1 satellite imagery for coastal mapping 

applications 152 

Tomas Lopez’s Geographic Atlas of Spain (1787) and its Hydrographic 

Network: GIS analysis of the “Reyno de Jaen” 153 

Improvements in the determination of extrapolated shorelines using 

Elevation Gradient Trend Propagation method. 153 

Robust surface matching as a rapid technique for terrain change detection 155 

Portraits of lost and possible cities 156 

Registration and 3D virtual reconstruction of the old Carmen's Spa Park 

(Málaga) 157 

Elaboration of a GIS for the management of the new building of the 

engineering’s school 158 

Economic valuation Hornachuelos Natural Park (Córdoba, Spain), supported 

by Geographic Information Techniques 159 

Simulation and virtual approach: from architecture to landscape 159 

Methodology for highways network infrastructures´ design in the landscape 160 

INNOVATIVE METHODS IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 163 

Descriptive models and knowledge management. Experiences and 

Perspective 164 

Walking through history. A visionary project for the third-millenium perugia 164 

From Wayfinding to Waysharing: interaction/information/interactivity for 

existing hospitals 166 

Design time and time architecture 167 


8 


New materiality: digital fabrication and open form Notes on the 

Arbitrariness of Architectural Form and Parametric Design. 167 

New key factors in drawing up a building 168 

Architecture = Design? The increasingly strong link between 3D modeling 

and automated manufacturing 169 

Wayfinding on public spaces: the UPV case 170 

The drawings design realized by parametric computer systems 171 

Bioclimatic passive designs rural buildings 172 

Digital modelling and representations: Design and works by Riccardo 

Morandi and Sergio Musumeci 173 

Computer modeling to document architecture and for use in design 

prefiguration 173 

Computer modelling based on integrated survey techniques and to 

document architecture 174 

Digital Modeling in architectural analysis for training engineers to building 

design 175 

The digital model in the documentation of architectural elements 176 

List of Authors 177 


9 


KEYNOTE SPEAKERS 

Alain Bernard 

Title: 

Ecole Centrale de Nantes, France 

Virtual Engineering for Innovation 

Gabriel Defranco Universidad Nacional de la Plata - Facultad de Ingeniería - 

Cátedras Gráfica Para Ingeniería y 

Sistemas de Representación, Argentina 

Title: 

Innovative Methods in Industrial Engineering 

and Architectural Design 


11 


INDUSTRIAL DESIGN AND ERGONOMICS 


13 


Industrial Design and Ergonomics 

Design Semantics: 

Even hybrid Motorcycles need to make noise 

M. Jaafarnia (a), A. Bass (b) 

(a) Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati 

(b) Art Center College of Design, Pasadena 

Abstract: 

This paper explores the need for artificial sound in high tech products. Changing one of 

the four sides of the semantic frame changes the meaning and emotional impact of that 

product. There is a relationship between the four sides of the semantic frame (aesthetic, 

physiologic, technical, economic) and the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch). 

Replacing sound with sight, smell, taste or touch does compensate for the absence of 

sound. When high tech products, such as motorcycles, omit sound it confuses the 

consumer. This research was conducted in two stages: In the first stage the sample 

consisted of 490 people. In the second stage, 69 people participated. We based our study 

on questions, interviews and practical tests to determine how artificial sound or the lack 

of it in high tech products affects the emotional state of the consumer. 

Keywords: Emotion, semantics, high tech product, transportation, psychology 

Corresponding Author: Mohsen Jaafarnia 

Tel.: +91-361-2582802 

e-mail: mohsen@iitg.ernet.in 

Address: Department of Design, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India 

Tracing the Evolution of Automobile design: 

Factors influencing the development of aesthetics 

in automobiles from 1885 to the present 

M. Jaafarnia (a), A. Bass (b) 

(a) Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati 

(b) Art Center College of Design, Pasadena 

Abstract: 

Using selected well-known automakers, the influence of new technology, lifestyle and 

culture of automobile design has been mapped, starting from 1885 through present day. 

We have identified seven eras to date. The study of history often yields clues to the 

future. Influences such as fashion, makeup and missiles have shaped automobile design 

since manufacturing began. The evolution of the car has been driven by the desire to 

create a semantic frame for speed. Over time, changes in lifestyle and culture have 

changed the semantic meaning of the frame. This time line will help automobile designers 


14 



understand the markers that influenced the evolution of the automobile, and act as a tool 

to predict the future of car design. 

Keywords: Emotion, evolution, automobile form, aesthetics, transportation, car, semantic 

frame, history of the car 

Corresponding Author: Adele Bass 

Tel.: +1-11-626-3040306 

e-mail: abass@artcenter.edu 

Address: integrated Studies Department, Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, California, USA 

Application of graphic expression in the design of 

“New Rolling System for Horizontal Blinds” applied to doors 

I. Sentana (a), E. Sentana (a), M. López (a) 

(a) University of Alicante 

Abstract: 

The main objective of this research is to show the development of a new horizontal blind 

and to emphasize the interaction between: 

- The geometry and 

- The different area of science 

This project emphasised the importance of geometry in the design of prototypes for 

specific applications. 

In this study, geometry, physics and mechanics were intertwined, which culminated in a 

final design. 

Here, it was concluded, after the design stage, that the collection support in a slat blind 

with horizontal rolling needed an Archimedes spiral, where the route of the spiral is along 

the slat thickness, with as many turns as the width of the rolling element allows. 

At first, this approach seemed geometrically simple; however, there are other geometrical 

considerations: the rolling system must be automatic, the traction mode should be in 

parallel and the speed of the motor drive must be linear despite the variable, peripheral 

speed that occurs when the blinds are being rolled. 

Therefore, the objective was to not only highlight the final results, but also to 

demonstrate the importance of the geometry in the design of mechanical devices. 

The justification for the final geometry is a consequence of the premises stated in a 

previous study, which examined possible solutions based on the assumptions of a properly 

functioning system operating at an industrial level. 

These assumptions, defined along with the geometric considerations and the technical 

features, resulted in the final design. 

We define the geometric design and the technology characteristics that allow its 

manufacture. 

Keywords: Engineering design, Product design, Rolling blind 


15 



Corresponding Author: Irene Sentana 

Tel.: (+0034 965903654) 

e-mail: Irene.Sentana@ua.es 

Address: Department of Graphic Expression and Cartography. University of ALICANTE P.O. Box 99. 

03080, Alicante. 

Ergonomic design and analysis of a post in a stall 

R. Prádanos (a), J. M. Sanz (a), D. Gutiérrez (a), N. de la Puente (a), J. I. Rojas (b), 

M. Domínguez (c), M. del Mar Espinosa (c) 

(a) Universidad de Valladolid, Escuela de Ingenierías Industriales, Spain 

(b) Universidad de Jaén, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Spain 

(c) Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Escuela de Ingenieros Industriales, Spain. 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The present work is a study of a street stall, which offers the public newspapers, 

magazines and books, as well as sweets, crisps, etc, and which has a very reduced space at 

its disposal for keeping and arranging goods. 

Method: 

We will apply the design for maximums and minimums based on percentiles. With these 

facts it was possible to model a stall with the CATIA system which has an ergonomic 

analysis module for the intended objectives. 

Result: 

The solution reduces muscular tension provoked by inadecuate positions. 

Discussion & Conclusion: 

This implied a completely new distribution of the space inside the stall. 

Keywords: Sreet Stall, Ergonomics, CATIA, RULA 

Corresponding Author: Roberto Prádanos 

Tel.:+34-983-423-497 

Fax.:+983-184-514 

e-mail: pradanos@egi.uva.es 

Address:C/ Francisco Mendizábal, 1. CP: 47014 Valladolid. Spain 


16 



Evaluation of the Experiential Levels 

of CPGs (Consumer Packaged Goods) using 3D Modelling 

A. Serrano Tierz (a), R. Rebollar Rubio (a), I. Lidón López (a), A. Fernández Sora (a), 

F. Julián Pérez (b), F. J. Espinach Orús (b) 

(a) Department of Engineering Design and Manufacturing, University of Zaragoza, Spain 

(b) Department of Organization, Business Management and Product Design, University of Girona, Spain. 

Abstract: 

The design of packaging is a determining factor when choosing consumer packaged goods, 

particularly those considered to be impulse purchase products. In these cases it is useful 

to have a precise idea of which is the most suitable design for the image and values that 

the brands aim to convey. 

Most of the research conducted in this field focuses on the sensorial aspects transmitted 

by packaging without delving into the experiences associated with the perception or 

consumption of the product. 

The investigation presented in this article aims to analyse the influence of the form and 

colour of the packaging on the perception of potential consumers. For this purpose a 

questionnaire was designed with 29 areas that analyse both sensorial and experiential 

levels, relating them to the predisposition to buy a product. 

Some 400 people were interviewed and presented with 9 different proposals for chewing 

gum packaging. The designs were devised through combining three different forms and 

colours that were rendered through 3D modelling. 

Keywords: Packaging design, Experiential levels, 3D Modelling, Product perception, CPGs 

Corresponding Author: Ana Serrano 

Tel: 34 976 761 000 

Fax: 976 762 235 

e-mail:anatierz@unizar.es 

Address: María de Luna 3, Edif. Torres Quevedo. 

Office furniture design for wheelchair user 

F. J. Castillo (a), O. D. de Cózar (a), I. Ladrón de Guevara (a), J. Jiménez (a), E.B. Blázquez (a) 

(a) University of Málaga (Spain) 

Abstract: 

There are an estimated 1.19 million wheelchair users in Spain. People use wheelchairs for 

a variety of reasons, the most common one is paralysis from spinal cord injuries. Current 

estimates indicate there are around 504.000 people alive in Spain with spinal cord injuries. 

Among other reasons for using wheelchairs are: fatigue from multiple sclerosis, muscle 

weakness from muscular dystrophy, lower limb spasticity from cerebral palsy, and missing 


17 



limbs due to amputation. People who use wheelchairs may encounter a variety of 

obstacles at their workstations depending on their limitations. Some possible 

accommodations could be adjustable height desk or table for a person who cannot work 

comfortably at an existing desk, accessible filing system or office supplies, and frequently 

used materials on most accessible shelves or drawers for a person who cannot reach 

upper and lower shelves and drawers. This paper presents the graphical design of a 

workstation for wheelchair users, in this case, technical, anthropometric, ergonomic, 

aesthetics and scientists aspects have been analyzed. The design of composite structure 

conduct to explicit safety constraints applied to office furniture requirements kept 

continuously current and updated as part of innovation. Finally, results are showed in a 

three-dimensional model. 

Keywords: Computers graphics, Furniture design, Wheelchair users, Ergonomic 

Corresponding Author: E. Beatriz Blázquez 

Tel.:+34 951 952 282 

e-mail: ebeatriz@uma.es 

Address: Escuela de Ingenierías, C/Doctor Ortíz Ramos, s/n, 29071, Málaga (Spain) 

New comfort evaluation criteria: 

application on movie-theatre design 

N. Cappetti (a), C. D’Oria (a), A. Naddeo (a) 

(a) Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno 

Abstract: 

Purpose: Authors have developed a new comfort evaluation criterion that improves the 

International Standard Evaluation criteria like OCRA, RULA, etc. adding new information 

coming from bio-mechanical parameters opportunely weighted. Authors wants to show 

how this method, originally developed for Industrial application, can be easily applied in 

most of postural comfort evaluations and how it can be used, for example, in movietheatres’ 

design. 

Method: 

Developed criterion has been applied in order to evaluate not only the seat-comfort (the 

viewer’s comfort when seated) but also the viewer’s comfort during the screening of a 

movie; viewer postural comfort is heavily affected by the relative position (distance and 

angle) between the seat and the big-screen: developed method can take that into 

account! 

Result: 

Output of this work is a Design Method for mapping the movie theatre’s seats taking into 

account the postural comfort matter. 


This work allows to show how the developed method is easy to use and how important 

the preventive ergonomic evaluation is in all fields of engineering design. 


18 



Keywords: Comfort Evaluation Criteria, Ergonomic, Design Methods, Movie-theatre 

design, Digital Human Modeling 

Corresponding Author: Alessandro Naddeo 

Tel.:+39 089 964061 

Fax.:+39 089 964037 

e-mail: anaddeo@unisa.it 

Address: Via Ponte don Melillo, 84048 Fisciano (SA), Italy 

Synthetic 

A. M. Manferdini (a), E. Manferdini (b) 

(a) Faculty of Architecture, University of Bologna, Italy 

(b) SCI-Arc Southern California Institute of Architecture, Los Angeles, USA 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The aim of this paper is to show the results of a research whose aim is to investigate the 

potential of architectural surfaces to produce hyper-realistic effects through the invention 

of new breeds of artificial matter, using Nature and the observation of its micro-scale 

details as a field of investigation which is instrumental in analyzing and understanding its 

structure and behaviour. 

Method: 

The research started from the digital three-dimensional acquisition of case studies drawn 

from plant and animal kingdom that were chosen as significant in terms of shape 

complexity and of the levels of detail of their geometry. Physical 3D models have been 

built using artificial materials with the purpose to extend the potential of digital surfaces 

and experience new visual and tactile effects. Modulation of texture, relief and colours 

derived from 3D scanned materials were the primary design sources. CNC machines 

combined with various techniques of tooling, laser etching, casting, vacuum forming, 

painting, and finishing were employed to fabricate physical model of the digital 3d 

acquisitions. The research provided a continuous transition from digital reality to the 

physical one: through the whole process, both analogical and digital procedures were 

used as agents of comprehension and design innovation. 

Result: 

One of the challenges of this research was to test the possibilities of enlarging the 

dimensions of micro-scale details acquired using 3d laser scanners, without losing 

geometric detail. During the digital manipulation process, the quality of 3d models has 

constantly been compared to the required level of details provided by magnification of 2d 

images. In order to supply the lack of information due to laser scanner accuracy and 

resolution, reality-based models have been implemented using 3d modelling packages 

that allow adding the third dimension to 2d images. This improvement added hyperrealistic 

effects to digital models, with evident drawback upon the possibility of managing 

huge data sets, so that decimation procedures became necessary to overcome this aspect. 


19 



In order to create new visual and tactile repertoire of synthetic materials, many different 

manufacturing methodologies and procedures have been tested, each one highlighting 

different characteristics and critical aspects. 


Although many technologies and methodologies to acquire and manipulate accurate 3d 

models are actually available and widespread, nowadays the best way to build realitybased 

3D models that contain a pre-defined level of detail is still a combination of 

different modeling techniques. In fact, as a single technique is not yet able to give 

satisfactory results in all situations, concerning high geometric accuracy, portability, 

flexibility as well as hyper-realism, so that image-based and range-based techniques are 

generally combined to fully exploit the intrinsic potentialities of each approach. 

Keywords: Micro-scale observations, 3d scanning, hyper-realism, uncanny effects, 

synthetic material 

Corresponding Author: Anna Maria Manferdini 

Tel.: +39.0547.338311 

Fax.: +39.0547.338307 

e-mail: am.manferdini@unibo.it 

Address: 55 Cavalcavia Street, 47023 Cesena, Italy 

Validation of a new index for seat comfort assessment 

based on objective and subjective measurements 

A. Lanzotti (a), M. Trotta (a), A. Vanacore (a) 

(a) University of Naples Federico II, Faculty of Engineering 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This work aims at validating a new statistical index (Weighted Pressure Comfort Loss, 

WPCL) for seat comfort assessment. The validation is carried out by deepening the 

relationship between subjective comfort evaluations and objective measures of seat 

comfort and comparing, from an engineering standpoint, the new index with the pressure 

peak which is currently one of the most used indexes for seat comfort assessment. 

Method: 

In the experimental phase, 22 experimenters evaluated four office chairs, by using 

different evaluation scales and methods (rating, ranking, comfort degree). The subjective 

comfort perceptions were collected through questionnaires. At the same time, several 

objective parameters related to seat comfort were measured by using a capacitive mat. In 

order to select the objective comfort measures which are significantly associated to the 

perceived comfort, a logistic regression model was adopted. 

Result: 

The logistic regression model selected the peak pressure as a significant predictor of 

perceived comfort whereas, the hypothesis of absence of correlation between the 


20 



perceived comfort and the WPCL index cannot be rejected. However, from an engineering 

standpoint, the final seat rating evidences substantial coherence of peak pressure and 

WPCL index, showing not redundant results useful to design team for seat comfort 

improvement. Since results were strongly influenced by experimental conditions and 

anthropometric variability of the experimenters, further investigations should be carried 

out. On the basis of the first experiments, a refinement of the index and new test 

conditions could be investigated. 

Keywords: User centered design, Chair design, Comfort assessment, Comfort Loss, Ordinal 

logistic regression 

Corresponding Author: Antonio Lanzotti 

Tel.:+39-0817682506 

Fax.:+39-0817682187 

e-mail: antonio.lanzotti@unina.it 

Address: P. le Tecchio, 80, 80125, Naples (NA), Italy 


21 


VIRTUAL REALITY AND INTERACTIVE DESIGN 


23 


Virtual Reality and Interactive Design 

Virtual acoustic environment interface 

for sound source localization training 

L. Dunai (a), B. Defez (a), V. Santiago Praderas (a), N. Ortigosa Araque (a), G. Peris Fajarnés (a) 

Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

Abstract: 

In the paper, a virtual acoustic environment interface for sound source localization 

training is presented. It is shown that, by means of a 3D virtual environment and 3D sound 

sources, the subject is able to interact and learn to localize virtual sound sources. This can 

constitute the basis of a potential navigation device able to be used in the future by blind 

people. 

Many different interfaces have been developed for sound source localization; however, 

there are no virtual interfaces where the user can learn to localize spatial sound sources 

with great precision, through interactive virtual environments and stereo headphones. 

During these last decades, researchers worked hardly in the development of virtual 

auditory spaces. The idea of a virtual acoustic space is based on the fact that the acoustic 

sounds, which are presented to the listener through headphones, are perceived by him as 

coming from the free field. This phenomenon is also known as sound source lateralization. 

Since its beginnings, the development of virtual sounds has been mainly based on the 

linear system analysis in the frequency domain, with the Fourier Transform, named Head 

Related Transfer Function (HRTF). The sounds reproduced by headphones appear to be 

originated within the head. Due to the human hearing system, humans are able to 

externalize the head-originated sounds as if they were coming from the surrounding 

environment. 

Keywords: Virtual sounds 

Corresponding Author: Larisa Dunai 

e-mail: ladu@upv.es 

Address: Camino de Vera s/n, 8L, Valencia, 46022, Spain 

Augmented Reality integration in Product Development 

A. E. Uva (a), M. Fiorentino (a), G. Monno (a) 

(a) DIMeG, Politecnico di Bari 

Abstract: 

CAD data has grown in complexity while computer assisted tools must be improved in the 

following aspects: usability for non CAD experts, cooperation support, understanding of 

3D geometries and integration between real and virtual models. 


24 



We present a novel scenario for product development integration based on Augmented 

Reality. The main advantage of our approach is to add contextual information directly on 

the real industrial product or even on technical drawings. The users can interact with 

digital information through the physical environment for direct product digital data 

navigation and visualization. 

We validate the AR integrability in the product development process presenting some 

practical applications in critical phases as: (i) PLM data access, (ii) FEM simulation and 

visualization, (iii) collaborative review for design alternatives, (iv) quality inspection of 

manufactured geometries. We experienced significant improvement in the product 

development speed, increase in the collaboration potential and reduction of paper sheets 

in the product environment. 

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Product Development, FEM, Design review, Quality 

Inspection. 

Corresponding Author: Antonio E. Uva 

Tel.: +39 080 5962737 

Fax.: +39 080 5962777 

e-mail: a.uva@poliba.it 

Address: Viale Japigia 182 - 70126 - Bari, ITALY 

A method for systematic usability evaluation 

of interactive product interfaces 

M. Mengoni (a), S. Ceccacci (a), M. Peruzzini (a), M. Germani (a) 

(a) Polytechnic University of Marche, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The paper aims at defining a user-centred design method to develop interactive product 

interfaces that allows to stretch time to market and to reduce prototyping costs. 

Method: 

It consists in an experimental protocol to evaluate product interface usability and to 

correlate the achieved performance with its design features and attributes. It exploits low 

cost high-fidelity prototypes based on Augmented Reality techniques that allow users to 

interact with the Graphic User Interface and at the same time touch the object, explore its 

shape, the material it is realized to stimulate both cognitive and emotional response. 

Result: 

Experimental sessions have been carried out on a real industrial case that is the design of 

an interactive remote control device for bathtubs and showers. Time for the development 

of the final design solution halves because main usability errors have been detected at the 

early design stages and no iterative testing sessions have been carried out on the final 

physical prototype. 



25 



Conclusion provides some discussions of experimental results to highlight the 

effectiveness of the method to detect usability problems and support the definition of 

what to improve. Finally two research lines have been drawn to foster improvements in 

virtual prototyping for interactive design. 

Keywords: Interactive design, User-centred Design, Virtual Prototyping, Augmented 

Reality, Usability 

Corresponding Author: Maura Mengoni 

Tel. +39 071 2204969 

Fax. +39 071 2204801 

email: m.mengoni@univpm.it 

Address: via Brecce Bianche, polo Monte Dago, 60131 Ancona 

Dynamic Splines for interactive simulation 

of elastic beams in Augmented Reality 

P. P. Valentini (a), E. Pezzuti (a) 

(a) University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Department of Mechanical Engineering - Rome, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The purpose of the paper is to discuss a methodology for addressing the real-time 

accurate dynamics simulation of elastic beams using an interactive augmented reality 

environment. 

Method: 

The equations of motion of the elastic beams have been deduced using the dynamic spline 

theory. According to this approach, the degrees of freedom of the beam are described 

using control points coordinates. The model has been integrated in an augmented reality 

environment where the user can interact with the elastic element by using a mechatronic 

tracker. 

Result: 

The dynamic spline model has been successfully integrated in the augmented reality 

environment. This methodology allows to perform accurate interactive real-time 

simulations and to deal with large displacements as well. 


The implementation of dynamic spline theory reveals to be a valid formulation for 

simulation of the flexibility of one-dimension elements like beams. Due to the flexibility of 

the mathematical formulation, a small set of degrees of freedom is sufficient to simulate a 

very variable shape of the beam in order to take into account large displacement effects 

with accuracy. This feature is important for the integration in the augmented reality 

environment where the simulation has to be computed in real time. 


26 



Keywords: Dynamic splines, augmented reality, interactive simulation, real time 

simulation 

Corresponding Author: Pier Paolo Valentini 

Tel.:+390672597137 

Fax.:+39062021351 

e-mail: valentini@ing.uniroma2.it 

Address: University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Department of Mechanical Engineering - via del 

Politecnico 1, 0013 - Rome, Italy 

A product innovation method 

based on the synergy between TRIZ and Interaction Design 

S. Filippi (a), D. Barattin (a) 

(a) DIEGM Dept., University of Udine - Udine - Italy 

Abstract: 

Modern industries operate under very selective conditions, as all the competitors develop 

efficient and effective products. For this reason, innovation is one of the main ways to 

lead the market. There are some methods and tools to analytically help designers towards 

the generation of new ideas. TRIZ is one of these methods. But all of this is not enough to 

generate a success product, because a fundamental actor is still underestimated, the final 

user of the product under development. To satisfy the user's requirements, designers and 

developers must keep into consideration also the Interaction Design methods. 

Unfortunately, these methods are not as structured as the TRIZ theory and very often it is 

very difficult to apply them in an effective way. For all of this, it appears quite reasonable 

to think about the development of innovative, easy-to-use products, as helped by a 

synergy between the Interaction Design and the TRIZ theories. After some highlights 

about analogies and differences of these two domains, this paper develops the basis for 

the generation of a new integrated analytical method able to suggest a collection of 

guidelines for the definition and implementation of engineering requirements. Then this 

method is described, and the summary of a case study performed to validate the method 

closes the paper. 

Keywords: Systematic Innovation, Interaction Design, TRIZ, Design for Multi-X, Product 

Design 

Corresponding Author: Stefano Filippi 

Tel.:+39 0432 558259 

Fax.:+39 0432 558251 

e-mail: filippi@uniud.it 

Address: Via delle Scienze, 208, 33100, Udine Italy 


27 



Mixed prototyping environment 

with different video tracking techniques 

F. Bruno (a), A. Angilica (a), F. I. Cosco (a), M. L. Luchi (a), M. Muzzupappa (a) 

(a) Università della Calabria - Dipartimento di Meccanica - Rende (CS) 

Abstract: 

Mixed Prototyping has been recently proposed as an interesting design tool able to 

combine virtual and real objects, in order to allow both designers and final users to 

evaluate and assess multiple design choices. This paper describes a Mixed Reality 

environment that deals with several issues that usually arise in Mixed Prototyping: the 

reliable simulation of the product behaviour; the mutual occlusion between real and 

virtual objects; the interpretation of the user’s gesture while she/he is interacting with the 

elements of the product interface; the composition of virtual graphics within the real 

scene through a fast and robust tracking methodology. In particular we focus on the 

tracking methodology considering two different solutions based on fiducial markers and 

natural features, respectively. We have considered different scenarios of use, referring to 

four typologies of products. Each one presents its intrinsic challenges: small hand held 

products (e.g. mobile phones, remote controllers, etc.), medium sized products (e.g. small 

appliances), large interactive products (e.g. major appliances) and large non-interactive 

products (e.g. furnishings). We propose a comparative study that aims to identify the 

tracking system that better fits each application. 

Keywords: Mixed Prototyping, Augmented Prototyping, Mixed Reality, Video Tracking 

Corresponding Author: Fabio Bruno 

Tel.: +39 0984 494623 

Fax.:+39 0984 494673 

e-mail: f.bruno@unical.it 

Address: via P.Bucci 44/c 87036 Rende(CS) 

Augmented Reality: an innovative alternative 

for the collaborative design on construction’s projects 

M. Brodeschi (a), F. Patiño Cambeiro (a), I. Goicoechea Castaño (a), 

F. Patiño Barbeito (a), J. I. Prieto López (b) 

(a) Universidade de Vigo: Departamento de Diseño en la Ingeniería 

(b) Universidade da Coruña: Departamento de Proyectos Arquitectónicos 

Abstract: 

This paper presents a study of Augmented Reality as one of the most innovative imaging 

technologies in construction´s design process. Unlike virtual reality, AR allows to overlap 


28 



the virtual image to the real world. Our proposal is to develop a document that acts as a 

User´s Manual of the building. The graphical data extracted from the AR experience 

provides the necessary information to compose a building´s data warehouse once it is 

finished. 

The AR approach allows the parties involved on a project team to use it as a bridge. It 

provides the integration and the information exchange in a concisely and accurately way. 

This dynamical communication allows each party to follow and participate of other 

relevant disciplines involved during the design process. The intention is to present a 

simulation that represents constructive elements of a finished building. We used an AR 

tool, three-dimensional modelling software and QR codes. Once those 3D´s models are 

available on the net, can be transported, displayed and updated. They are easily visualized 

by browsers of Augmented Reality through mobile devices (as they have a video camera, 

GPS and internet). 

Moreover there is a possibility that allow us to add a range of relevant information during 

the development of the project. We could mention: geographical coordinates, urban data 

volumes, solar energy studies, the relationship with the environment, access, simulation 

of materials, budget, etc. 

Simulations were developed on a real construction project to check the possibilities of the 

AR in a - remote/ synchronous or live/ asynchronous - context. This tool behaving as a 

CSCW has facilitated communication issues, the collaboration and the relationship of the 

parties. 

We also present the results of system´s experiment, showing the possibilities to enforce 

this technique and how it can be very helpful in supporting the building maintenance task. 

Keywords: Innovative tools, Augmented Reality, Integrated Design Process, Collaborative 

Design, Construction Industry 

Corresponding Author: Michelle Brodeschi 

Tel.: +34 986813668 

Fax.: +34 986813864 

e-mail: mbrodeschi@uvigo.es 

Address: Universidade de Vigo “Departamento de Diseño en la Ingeniería” Rúa Torrecedeira 86 

36208 VIGO - SPAIN 


29 


KNOWLEDGE BASED ENGINEERING 

AND PRODUCT DATA EXCHANGE AND MANAGEMENT 


31 


Knowledge Based Engineering and Product Data Exchange and Management 

Digital document management 

in the conceptual design process of product 

T. Magal Royo (a), J. Gimenez López (a), F. Brusola Simón (a), I. Lengua Lengua (a), G. Peris Fajarnés (a) 

(a) Research Centre in Graphic Technologies, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Spain 

Abstract: 

This article confirms the rise of digital versus the analog document in documentary 

management related to the conceptualization and development of new industrial 

products. In the methodologies of design management and specifically in the conceptual 

stages and early development of an industrial product, we find that a fundamental part of 

the integral control is undoubtedly the documentation generated during the process 

creating a product. This documentation allows us to have before, during and after an 

informational descriptive "record" that should be stored consistently and efficiently by the 

organizations involved in its implementation, either the design professional who prepares 

it or the company who executes it. 

Today we can find numerous administrative, technical or formal documents associated 

with an industrial product able to define the traceability of it in time to allow for future 

improvements by the company and serve the designer as a check on author's own work. 

The existing documentation today's increasingly working more directly in digital media 

and its transmission over the Internet offers enormous possibilities to multidisciplinary 

teams located in different parts of the world that promote collaborative design in 

products. 

Therefore, there will be a list of the main existing types of digital documents and the 

technology applied in each case on-line transmission based on the different tasks involved 

in the conceptual process of industrial design to demonstrate its future importance. 

Keywords: Design, Product design, Management design, Collaborative design, Internet 

Corresponding Author: Teresa Magal-Royo 

Tel.: +34 963879518 

Fax.: +34 963879519 

e-mail: tmagal@degi.upv.es 

Address: Edificio 8L. Camino de Vera s/n. Valencia 46022 España 


32 



Towards a “high productive design methodology” 

dedicated to modular product design 

using a Knowledge Configuration approach 

A. Robert (a) (b), C. Vernier (a) (c), T. Boudouh (a), S. Roth (a), S. Gomes (a) 

(a) M3M Laboratory, UTBM, France 

(b) MABI Company, France 

(c) Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies Company, France 

Abstract: 

This paper presents a global methodology dedicated to modular product design based on 

capitalization of standard parametric parts, parameters and design rules, connected to the 

information management system of a company. This approach aims to develop and test a 

“high productive design methodology”, taking into account the modularity of product 

ranges and also the knowledge associated, in the framework of Design For Assembly 

methods (DFA). Our method takes into consideration the product functions, its assembly 

constraints and integrates the expert knowledge (parameters and rules) in the early stages 

of the design process. After a literature survey focused on modularity in design, axiomatic 

design, Design Structure Matrix and Knowledge Configuration Management concepts, we 

describe the main steps of our approach. The example of a pneumatic scraping tool is 

used to illustrate the effectiveness of the developed methodology. Through this modular 

product example, we describe and discuss the main results of our methodology 

considering our new concepts of Knowledge Configuration Management. 

Keywords: Product Lifecycle Management, Knowledge Based Engineering, Knowledge 

Configuration, Management, Modular design, Parametric modelling 

Corresponding Author: Aurélie Robert 

Aurélie ROBERT 

Tel.: 0384583521 

Fax.: 0384583207 

e-mail: aurelie.robert@utbm.fr 

Address: Laboratoire M3M - UTBM, rue du chateau, 90010 Belfort Cedex 


33 



Vertical metadata in learning objects 

to recovery the industrial historical heritage 

M. Castro-García (a), J. I. Rojas-Sola (a), Mª. P. Carranza-Cañadas (b) 

(a) Department of Engineering Graphics, Design and Projects. University of Jaen. 

(b) Department of Engineering Graphics and Geomatics. University of Cordoba. 

Abstract: 

Every day, new methods and techniques to represent the past are investigated. 

Frequently, those innovations are incorporated in other knowledge areas where graphics 

engineering has previous experience in this important subject. As current examples can be 

cited the reconstruction of Virtual Reality (VR) with realism character covering the 

resource and to study the interaction with their environment, anthropological or 

otherwise, or Augmented Reality (AR) techniques with applications in museums or 

interpretive centres, among others. 

In particular, these techniques are mainly based on two-dimensional (2D) and threedimensional 

(3D) models, which in its development stage, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) 

techniques produce a lot of educational materials, likely to be used for training of future 

researchers in cultural heritage subject. 

Setting this idea as starting point, this article is based on the work of recovery in industrial 

heritage, such as windmills, to identify key learning points. Once detected these, it is 

possible to create Learning Objects (LO). Later, may be used in any educational system, for 

example, at Learning Management System (LMS). 

The proper functioning of the system depends on the existence of a standard vocabulary 

as SCORM, trying to be a reference to the creation of LOs using CAD techniques in the field 

of cultural heritage. 

Keywords: E-Learning, Engineering Graphics, Learning Objects, Industrial Historical 

Heritage, Windmill 

Corresponding Author: José Ignacio Rojas Sola 

Tel.: +34-953-212452 

Fax.: +34-953-212334 

e-mail: jirojas@ujaen.es 

Address: University of Jaén. Campus de las Lagunillas, s/n. 23071-Jaén (Spain) 


34 



A proposal to incorporate 

the Value Analysis/Value Engineering techniques 

into a PLM system 

J. Cerqueiro (a), L. López (a), J. Pose (a) 

(a) Universidade de Vigo (Spain) 

Abstract: 

The aim of this paper is the development of a conceptual framework for the incorporation 

of the Value Analysis/Value Engineering techniques into a Product Lifecycle Management 

(PLM) system. This proposal would help to systematize the flow of knowledge and 

innovation, both internal and external, among all processes inside an industrial company, 

particularly those related to design and manufacturing. As a result of such incorporation, 

those techniques would contribute with their potential to a continuous improvement 

process of the company’s competitive position by means of increasing the ratio between 

the product’s quality as perceived by the customer and its cost. 

Keywords: Value Analysis, Value Engineering, PLM, Innovation, Design 

Corresponding Author: Jorge Cerqueiro 

Tel.: + 34 986 813676 

Fax.: + 34 986 813644 

e-mail: jcerquei@uvigo.es 

Address: C/ Torrecedeira, nº86, 36208 Vigo (Spain) 

LeanCost: knowledge-based tool 

for early product cost estimation 

M. Mandolini (a), P. Cicconi (a), M. Germani (a) 

(a) Università Politecnica delle Marche, Dipartimento di Meccanica 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

In a scenario characterized by high competitiveness, companies have to apply methods 

and tools in order to respond to the customer needs while maintaining a constant control 

on product cost. For this objective, product designer should evaluate different design 

alternatives by using criteria related not only to function but also to manufacturability and 

cost. The idea of the present approach is to provide designers with a Knowledge-Based 

(KB) tool (called LeanCost) that analyzes the product design information by using a 

manufacturing knowledge base in order to automatically obtain the estimation of 

manufacturing cost. 

Method: 


35 



The method proposed in this work originates from the concept that several company 

departments (product design, process engineering and purchasing) should base their 

activity on a shared cost model and a related cost estimation tool. The approach is 

schematised as a single cost estimation software, used in the three main phases of the 

product development process (design, industrialization and manufacturing). When this 

kind of software will deployed by a company, each designer will use a Knowledge-Based 

(KB) tool that analyzes the product design information by using a manufacturing 

knowledge base in order to automatically obtain the estimation of manufacturing cost. 

Result: 

In order to evaluate the reliability of this estimation software tool, it is relevant to gather 

experimental results and evaluate deviation between the standard cost and the estimated 

one. Standard cost is that one manually calculated by product engineering, while 

estimated cost is calculated by the designer using the estimation tool. Results analysis will 

provide useful information to improve the reliability of LeanCost, in terms of parameters 

and functions. 


The LeanCost software tool has been appreciated for its fast and ease of use on almost all 

the operations required to produce mechanical components, especially for carpentry and 

sheet metal operations. Improvements are related to the recognition of manufacturing 

features on 3D CAD models represented by neutral data formats, such as .STEP and . IGS. 

Keywords: Feature-based costing, Design to Cost, KBE, Lean product design 

Corresponding Author: Marco Mandolini 

Tel.: +39-071-2204797 

Fax.:+39-071-2204801 

e-mail: m.mandolini@univpm.it 

Address: Via Brecce Bianche, 12, Dipartimento di Meccanica, 60131 Ancona 

KBE approaches in preliminary design: a case study 

M. Caneri (a), G. Concheri (a), R. Meneghello (a), A. Baschiera (a) 

(a) DAUR – Laboratory of Design Tools and Methods in Industrial Engineering, University of Padova. 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Purpose of this work is to summarize some possible improvements to the traditional 

parametric approach for virtual prototyping, by illustrating a particular application case: 

the preliminary design of a heat recovery system. Reference is made to the following 

scenario: conceptual design being accomplished, the team of designers has to face 

problems typical of system design, e.g. assigning a common value for variables to establish 

some guidelines, or evaluating alternative solutions. In such a case, a fast, flexible way to 

generate many versions of the same feature could be profitable. 

Method: 


36 



Fast evaluation of alternative solutions will be accomplished by using the knowledgebased 

capabilities of one of the most popular CAD platform, Catia V5. A simplified 

predictive model of the thermo fluid dynamic behavior of the heat recovery circuit, based 

on a computing worksheet, will be interfaced with the CAD by a project table: in this way, 

all the current values assigned to the degrees of freedom will be transmitted to the virtual 

prototype. The CAD model will be featured with some checks, rules and automatic 

procedures: hence, it’s possible to select all the configurations compatible with some 

imposed constraints, and save them in a new project table, to easily recall and transmit 

them to project partners. 

Result: 

Through the model it was possible to find, select and automatically reconstruct all the 

configurations (defined by combinations of values for degrees of freedom) compatible 

with the imposed constraints. 


The use of the knowledge base capabilities of the Catia V5 platform, and the interface 

with a scientific computing software by a project table, allowed the development of 

automatic procedures to evaluate the alternative configurations of a heat recovery system 

and check their compatibility with specific requirements. 

Keywords: KBE, Preliminary Design, Micro-cogeneration, Catia V5, Project table. 

Corresponding Author: Massimiliano Caneri 

Tel.: +39 049 8276734 

e-mail: massimiliano.caneri@studenti.unipd.it 


37 


GEOMETRIC MODELLING AND ANALYSIS 


39 


Geometric Modelling and Analysis 

Parametric Modeling of Free-Form Surfaces 

for Progressive Addition Lens 

G. Savio (a), G. Concheri (a), R. Meneghello (a) 

(a) DAUR - Laboratory of Design Tools and Methods in Industrial Engineering, University of Padova 

Abstract: 

Purpose: By the mid-40s, the amplitude of accommodation has declined sufficiently so 

that most of us can no longer accommodate clearly and comfortably for close tasks. This 

condition, called presbyopia, is related to the growth of the lens. 

Nowadays, due to the development of the free-form technologies, the progressive 

addition lenses (PAL) are the best solution for the presbyopia. To obtain the necessary 

optical properties, a continuous change in the curvature along a line (called corridor) must 

be provided on a surface of the lens (progressive surface). 

Method: In this work a method for the parametric design and analysis of progressive 

addition lens, based on discrete shape modeling, is proposed. Both the optical (e.g. power 

and addition) and the geometrical (e.g. inset, corridor length, amplitude of the distance 

and near vision area) parameters have been taken into account. 

Result: Different parameters are assessed in the design stage of PAL. The method 

developed for the analysis of surface optical properties, especially with regard to the 

astigmatic surface power, has proved an essential tool for the analysis of results. A key 

role in the resultant optical properties of the designed PAL is covered by the distribution 

of the curves in the intermediate area and by the curvature equation along the corridor. 

Discussion & Conclusion: The free-form technologies, recently introduced in the 

manufacturing process of ophthalmic lenses, allow the production of high performance 

and custom PALs. Surface power and astigmatic surface power show similar behaviour to 

other commercial progressive additional lens but, in addition, the designer can define the 

distribution of astigmatism in the intermediate region. Compared to the methods 

proposed in literature, this method shows more opportunities in the design parameters 

definition and allows highly customized lens, designed on the main habits of the wearer. 

Moreover the exchange data formats for the CNC manufacturing process were described. 

Keywords: Umbilics, Curvature, Free-Form Surface, Geometric Modeling, Progressive 

Addition Lens PAL. 

Corresponding Author: Gianpaolo Savio 

Tel.: +39 049 827 6735 

Fax.: +39 049 827 6738 

e-mail: gianpaolo.savio@unipd.it 

Address: via Venezia 1, 35131, Padova, Italy 


40 



A fast algorithm for manifold reconstruction of surfaces 

L. Di Angelo (a), L. Giaccari (a) 

(a) Department of Industrial Engineering, University of L’Aquila, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

In a previous paper these authors presented a new mesh-growing approach based on the 

Gabriel 2 – Simplex (G2S) criterion. If compared with the Cocone family and the Ball 

Pivoting methods, G2S demonstrated to be competitive in terms of tessellation rate, 

quality of the generated triangles and defectiveness produced when the surface to be 

reconstructed was locally flat. Nonetheless, its major limitation was that, in the presence 

of a mesh which was locally non – flat or which was not sufficiently sampled, the method 

was less robust and holes and non – manifold vertices were generated. In order to 

overcome these limitations, in this paper, the performance of the G2S mesh-growing 

method is fully improved in terms of robustness. 

Method: 

For this purpose, an original priority queue for the driving of the front growth and a post 

processing to efficiently erase the non–manifold vertices are proposed. 

Result: 

The performance of the new version of the G2S approach has been compared with that of 

the old one, and that of the Cocone family and the Ball Pivoting methods in the 

tessellation of some benchmark point clouds and artificially noised test cases. The results 

derived from these experiments show that the improvements being proposed and 

implemented prevent the generation of non–manifold vertices and render the new 

version more robust than the old one. This performance improvement is achieved by a 

small reduction of the tessellation rate as opposed to the old version; the rate is still, 

however, at least an order of magnitude higher than the other methods here considered 

(the Cocone family and the Ball Pivoting methods). 


The results obtained show that the use of the new version of G2S is advantageous, as 

opposed to the other methods here considered, even in the case of noised point clouds. In 

fact, since it does not perform the smoothing of points, not even in the presence of very 

noised meshes, the new version of G2S, while producing more holes than the Robust 

Cocone and the Ball Pivoting, nonetheless manages to preserve the manifoldness and 

important details of the object. 

Keywords: Surface reconstruction, triangular meshes, reverse engineering. 

Corresponding Author: Luca Di Angelo 

Tel: 00390862434310 

e-mail: luca.diangelo @univaq.it 

Address: Via G. Gronchi 18, L’Aquila, Italy 


41 



Modeling methods in parametric design. Order matrix 

J. López Soto (a,b,d); P. R. López Para (a,c,d); J. L. Caro Rodríguez (a,b,d) 

(a) Industrial Technical Engineering School of Bilbao 

(b) Graphic Expression and Engineering Projects department. 

(c) Mechanical Engineering department 

(d) Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea. University of the Basque Country 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This paper is the result of a project to improve methods of digitization through parametric 

CAD software. 

Method: 

Geometric relations are one of the most repeated problems in digitization models. 

Therefore, it was proposed a tool to help manage the work of establishing the necessary 

relationships in models digitization. It is based on doing, previously, a Functional Analysis 

and a Geometric Analysis of the model. (López Soto et al. "Analysis of modeling methods 

in parametric design. Analysis of Geometric Relations." XXI International Congress of 

Graphics Engineering. Lugo, Spain, 2009). 

The purpose of this paper is a protocol which gathers all the results obtained after 

applying the previous analysis. Thus, the information condenses into a single document 

the Model Analysis. 

Result: 

This protocol of analysis would be a prelude to the implementation of the model with CAD 

software. It lets you define, and sequencing, the primitive geometric components and 

order to achieve maximum independence. 

The tool consists on a matrix that relates the geometry of the part with the CAD software 

operations, resulting in a highly graphical and intuitive tool. It shows the process of 

digitization to get a quality model. 


The Model Analysis involves a time of preparation of the steps to digitization a part. This 

extra time is compensated by a greater time savings in subsequent interpretations and 

model reuse. 

Of course, the Model Analysis should be independent of the CAD software used in its 

implementation. Once the analysis is completed it shall proceed to elect the best CAD 

software to continue the design process. 

The activity of designing objects requires many revisions and updates of its parts. To 

succeed, we must be systematic and give utmost importance to detail from the beginning 

to the end of the design activity. 

Therefore, it is essential to perform a detailed Model Analysis for the modeling process, 

but software developers announced that all applications can be modified without 

unexpected changes arise. 

Keywords: Parametric CAD, Geometric Relationships, Geometric Analysis. 


42 



Corresponding Author: Jaime López Soto 

Tel.: +34 946014314 

Fax.: +34 946014300 

e-mail: jaime.lopez@ehu.es 

Address: E.U.I.T.I. Bilbao. Plaza La Casilla 3. 48012 Bilbao. Spain. 

A parametric associative modelling 

of aeronautical structural concepts 

under C0, C1 or C2 continuity constraints 

V. Dattoma, M. De Giorgi, S. Giancane, P. Manco, A. E. Morabito (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell’Innovazione - Università del Salento – Lecce, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

In this paper, an associative-parametric approach is proposed in order to model the mesh 

of an aeronautical concept starting from a set of high-level structural primitives. To assure 

orders of continuity higher than C0 between adjacent instances, a suitable mathematical 

description of the structural primitives has been identified. The maintenance of the 

continuity constraints must be assured when the mesh is modified. 

Method: 

The Bézier curve and the Coons surface patch, with a suitable degree, are used in order to 

assure orders of continuity higher than C0 in the connection points or edges. Appropriate 

schemes of dependences are identified to assure the automatic propagation of the 

modifications complying with the continuity constraints. 

Result: 

The approach here proposed allows the designer to carry out the geometric modelling and 

the automatic mesh generation within one software environment in a fast and interactive 

way and complying with the geometric continuity constraints and the one-to-one 

correspondence between the mesh elements. This represents evidently a large advantage 

since the structural optimization process is simplified, with a relevant man-hours saving. A 

lower number of data transfers between different software is, moreover, involved with 

less problems related to the data corruption. Finally low conceptual value operations, due 

to manual correction activity of the model, are eliminated. 


The methodology here proposed allows the automatic propagation of modifications 

satisfying the geometric continuity constraints and the one-to-one correspondence 

between the mesh elements. The approach is implemented into a CAD/CAE tool, called 

MeshFEM and developed using C++ and Matlab languages and the VTK library for the 3D 

graphic visualization. 


43 



Keywords: design conceptualisation, aeronautic structures, primitives, quad-mapped 

mesh, CAD/CAE tool. 

Corresponding Author: Marta De Giorgi 

Tel.: +39(0)832297776 

Fax.: +39(0)832297768 

e-mail: marta.degiorgi@unisalento.it 

Address: via Arnesano, 73100, Lecce, Italy. 

Geometric modelling of metallic foams 

A. Carofalo, M. De Giorgi, A. E. Morabito, R. Nobile 

Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell’Innovazione - Università del Salento – Lecce, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The aim of this work is the development of a procedure able to model the highly irregular 

cellular structure of metallic foams on the basis of information obtained by X-ray 

tomographic analysis. 

Method: 

The geometric modelling is based on the feature “pore” characterized by an ellipsoidal 

shape. The data for the geometric parameters of the instances are obtained with a 

methodology which is driven by the pore volume distribution curve. This curve shows how 

much the cells, whose diameter belongs to a given dimensional range, contribute to the 

reduction of the total volume. 

Result. 

The presented methodology has been implemented into a CAD tool consisting of a Matlab 

routine identifying the instances of the feature “pore” and a CATIA’s macro modelling the 

closed cells foam. 


The CAD model developed for two types of closed cells foams approximates by 

considerable accuracy both the density and the volume distribution of the real foams. 

Keywords: Aluminium foam, Microstructural model, CAD modelling, OBB overlapping, X- 

ray tomography 

Corresponding Author: Alessio Carofalo 

Tel.: +39(0)832297786 

Fax.: +39(0)832297768 

e-mail: alessio.carofalo@unisalento.it 

Address: via Arnesano, 73100, Lecce, Italy. 


44 



Development of an algorithm 

for a triangular approach to the sphere 

based on the Platonic solids using MATLAB scripts. 

M. Heredia Conde (a), M. Pérez Vázquez (a), J. M. Gomis Martí (b) 

(a) University of Vigo - Spain 

(c) Polytechnic University of Valencia - Spain 

Abstract: 

The sphere is a common object in uncountable engineering problems, which not only 

appears in structural elements like domes but also in thousands of mechanisms normally 

used in diverse kinds of machines. To design, calculate and analyze the behaviour on 

service of spherical elements it’s essential to have a good method to create an ordered 

group of discrete points of the spherical surface from the parametric equations commonly 

used to define the sphere continuously. 

One of the best known and widely used in high-level programming environment is 

MATLAB. The programming language has thousands of functions, lots of them specially 

designed for engineering processes. One of these functions generates a sphere knowing a 

given radius and shows the result. Nevertheless, this function is really imprecise because 

it’s based on parallels and meridians besides the obtained vertices don’t keep a constant 

distance each other. That because it would be appropriate to design a new function to 

generate accurate discrete approximations of the sphere. 

The objective of this paper is create a low-level function in MATLAB to obtain a discrete 

sphere with high regularity and high approximation in order to provide a good base to 

solve sphere-based engineering problems. To ensure a perfect symmetry and a high 

regularity platonic bodies will be used as a base to divide the continuous spherical surface 

in a finite number of regular triangles. The obtained results for the different seed bodies 

will be represented graphically and compared to each other. The accuracy of each method 

will be evaluated and compared too. 

Keywords: Sphere, Triangular approach, Platonic bodies, MatLab. 

Corresponding Author: Manuel Pérez Vázquez 

Tel.: +34 677689233 

Fax.:+34 986812201 

e-mail: maperez@uvigo.es 

36201 Vigo (Pontevedra) SPAIN. 


45 



Shape optimization of smooth surfaces with arbitrary topology 

P. Kiciak (a) 

(a) Institut Matematyki Stosowanej i Mechaniki, Uniwersytet Warszawski 

Abstract: 

A popular method of constructing a smooth surface with arbitrary topology is choosing an 

irregular mesh and applying iteratively the Catmull-Clark algorithm. The sequence of 

meshes obtained in this way converges to a surface, whose curvature is continuous, 

except in a vicinity of special mesh elements; apart from the curvature discontinuity there, 

the limiting surface exhibits undesirable undulations, visible on curvature images. 

In this paper a shape optimization method is described, modifying vertices of the mesh to 

produce a surface with the curvature continuous and the undulations significantly 

reduced. 

Keywords: B-spline surfaces, Curvature continuity, Shape optimization 

Corresponding Author: Przemysław Kiciak 

Tel.: +48 22 55 44 501 

e-mail: przemek@mimuw.edu.pl 

Address: Institut Matematyki Stosowanej i Mechaniki, Uniwersytet Warszawski, ul. Banacha 2, 02- 

097 Warszawa, Poland. 

Characteristics of conic segments in Bézier form 

J. Sánchez Reyes (a) 

(a) IMACI, ETS Ingenieros Industriales de Ciudad Real. Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (Spain) 

Abstract: 

The rational Bézier form has become a standard in CAD-CAM packages and data exchange 

formats, because it encompasses both conic segments (in the quadratic case) and general 

free-form geometry. We present several results on the relationship between the quadratic 

rational Bézier form and the classical definition of conics in terms of their characteristics, 

such as foci, centre, axis and eccentricity. First, we recall a simple geometric procedure to 

compute arbitrary conic segments of given focus in Bézier form. Second, from this 

procedure we derive the geometric characteristics of a given Bézier conic in a 

straightforward manner, by employing complex arithmetic. For a central conic, a simple 

quadratic equation defines the foci location, and its solution furnishes not only an explicit 

formula for the foci, but also for the centre, axis direction and linear eccentricity. 

Keywords: rational Bézier, conic, focus, axis, eccentricity 

Corresponding Author: Javier Sánchez Reyes 

Tel.: +34 926-295463 


46 



Fax.:+34 926-295361 

mail: Javier.SanchezReyes@uclm.es 

Address: ETSII, 13071 Ciudad Real. 

Constrained fitting of B-Spline curves 

based on the Force Density Method 

L. Barbieri (a), F. Bruno (a), M. Muzzupappa (a), J. P. Pernot (b) 

(a) University of Calabria, Rende, Italy 

(b) LSIS, UMR CNRS 6168, Aix-en-Provence, France 

Abstract: 

This paper presents a novel ap-proach for constrained B-Spline curve approximation based 

on the Force Density Method (FDM). This approach aims to define a flexible technique 

tool for curve fitting, which allows approximating a set of points taking into account shape 

constraints that may be related to the production process, to the material or to other 

technological requirements. 

After a brief introduction on the property of the FDM and the definition of the network 

used for the formulation of the fitting problem, the paper explains in detail the 

mathematical approach, the methods and the techniques adopted for the definition of the 

proposed constrained B-Spline curve approximation. 

The results suggest that the adoption of a mechanical model of bar networks allows 

developing a more flexible tool than the traditional least squared methods (LSM) usually 

adopted for fitting problems. Numerical examples show that the new approach is effective 

in fitting problems when the satisfaction of shape constraints, such as those related to 

production or to technological processes, are required. 

Keywords: B-Spline curve, Constrained fitting, Force Density Method. 

Corresponding Author: Loris Barbieri 

Tel.: +390984494667 

Fax.: +390984494663 

e-mail: loris.barbieri@unical.it 

Address:Arcavacata di Rende (CS) ponte P.Bucci, cubo 45C. 


47 


INTEGRATED PRODUCT AND PROCESS DESIGN 


49 


Integrated Product and Process Design 

Influence of geometrical characteristics 

on eco-designed products 

R. Gaha (a), A. Benamara (a), B. Yannou (b) 

(a) LGM, ENIM, Tunisie. 

(b) LGI, ECP, France. 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Our work consists on helping the designer to create eco-designed product and allow the 

industry to still present in the market by respecting new established ecological laws. 

Method: 

In this paper we are focused on searching a simple ecological tool to the designer which is 

inspirited from researchers done to couple Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Life Cycle 

Assessment (LCA) tools. 

Result: 

As a result we proposed a framework which consists firstly on a special geometric data 

base (D.B) containing the impact of all existing solutions in a given industry. Secondly, it 

consists on a macro applied to CAD and LCA tools which can calculate the impact of a new 

geometrical solution and adds it to the data base (D.B). 


The need of ecological tools used on the design phase by a designer non expert in terms of 

environnement is still exists. In our work we tried to exploit existing geometrical solution 

environnemently evaluated to reduce the time of choosing the most ecological solution 

from used solution in industry and giving the possibility of new evaluation in case of a new 

one. This is done because the influence of geometry on the whole life cycle product. Our 

framework can be applied to each industry but the numeric tool is not yet developed; this 

can be the aim of a future work. 

Keywords: Eco-design, CAD, LCA, Geometric characteristics, Eco-product. 

Corresponding Author: Raoudha Gaha 

Tel.:+216 25 66 85 11 

e-mail:raoudha.gaha@gmail.com 

Address: LGM, ENIM Rue Ibn Aljazzar Monastir Tunisie. 


50 



A computer tool to extract feasible assembly sequences 

from a product CAD model, in automated way 

R. Viganò (a), G. Osorio-Gomez (b) 

(a) Mechanical Engineering Department. Politecnico di Milano - Italy 

(b) Design Engineering Research Group. EAFIT University - Colombia 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Justify the capability to obtain feasible assembly sequences through an automatic 

approach based only on contact and interference information between components of a 

mechanical discrete product, independently of adopted virtual modelling techniques and 

human intervention. 

Method: 

Analysis of assembly information available at early stages of design in virtual model of a 

product in order to identify reliable information to be used in a systematic methodology 

based on identification and evaluation of subassemblies. 

Result: 

Methodology and computer tool to automatically extract possible assembly sequences for 

mechanical discrete products, starting from topological contact information between 

components, and guaranteeing at least one feasible solution. 


Results show that this approach allows obtaining automatically a lower finite number of 

assembly sequences than theoretical approaches with human intervention, in a faster way 

to be implemented at early stages of design using virtual model 

Keywords: Assembly Sequence Planning, Automatic approach, Assembly modelling. 

Corresponding Author: Roberto Viganò 

Tel.: +39 0223998217 

Fax.: +39 0223998202 

e-mail: roberto.vigano@polimi.it 

Address: Via G. La Masa, 1 – 20156 Milano (Italy) 


51 



Adaptation and implementation 

of a process of innovation and design within a SME 

A. A. Ammar (a), D. Scaravetti (a), J. P. Nadeau (a) 

(a) Arts & Métiers ParisTech, I2M - IMC dpt., France 

Abstract: 

A design process is a sequence of design phases, starting with the design requirement and 

leading to a definition of one or several system architectures. For every design phase, 

various support tools and resolution methods are proposed in the literature. These tools 

are however very difficult to implement in an SME, which may often lack resources. 

In this article we propose a complete design process for new manufacturing techniques, 

based on creativity and knowledge re-use in searching for technical solutions. Conscious of 

the difficulties of appropriation in SME, for every phase of our design process we propose 

resolution tools which are adapted to the context of a small firm. Design knowledge has 

been capitalized in a knowledge base. The knowledge structuring we propose is based on 

functional logic and the design process too is based on the functional decomposition of 

the system, and integrates the simplification of the system architecture, from the early 

phases of the process. For this purpose, aggregation phases and embodiment are 

proposed and guided by heuristics. 

Keywords: Innovation, Design, SME, Functional bases 

Corresponding Author: Adel Amin AMMAR 

E-mail: adelaminammar@yahoo.fr 

Address: Arts & Métiers ParisTech, Esplanade des Arts et Métiers, 33400 Talence - France. 

Design for recycling problematic: 

application to composite parts 

P. Nicolas (a), K. François Xavier (a), P. Stephane (a), M. Olivier (a) 

(a) I2M – UMR 5295 - Bordeaux University 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The use of composites in industry is ever- increasing. However, in spite of that, end of life 

solutions for composites are still under development. In this paper, a solution linking 

design strategies with a recycling process for composite materials will be proposed. The 

needs and multi-disciplinary skills required for taking recycling possibilities into account in 

the early stages of product design and the necessity to standardize product recycling 

capabilities based on design requirements will be discussed. 

Result: 


52 



The paper highlights the need for designers to take a functional approach including 

characterization of materials and mechanical behaviour, recycling process limits, 

constraints and opportunities into consideration. The recovery solution for the thermoset 

composite is a supercritical water solvolysis process. This paper will show the first lessons 

learned from experiments with this technique. 

Keywords: Design for recycling, Eco-design, Composite recycling, Design for environment, 

Composites characterisation 

Corresponding Author: Perry Nicolas 

Tel.: (+33) 05 56 84 79 78 

e-mail: nicolas.perry@u-bordeaux1.fr 

Address: I2M – IUT 15 rue Naudet 33175 Gradignan - France. 

A novel tool for pneumatic spindle design 

M. Carfagni (a), R. Furferi (a), Y. Volpe (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Meccanica e Tecnologie Industriali, Università degli Studi di Firenze 

Abstract: 

Pneumatic spindles have been introduced in a wide range of industrial applications. In 

fact, air motors offer a cost effective alternative to conventional electric devices and often 

remarkable functional improvements. 

In spite of their growing diffusion, air motor design is still performed mainly according to 

companies’ expertise, usually building a number of prototypes until the desired 

torque/speed (or power/speed) curve is obtained. 

The aim of this work is to provide a predictive model capable of estimating the 

characteristic curves by setting a set of air motor geometrical characteristics and inlet air 

pressure, in order to reduce the number of prototypes to be built. 

The presented study has been carried out with reference to vane motor, generally suitable 

for applications requiring high operating speeds. A statistical experimental approach 

(based on DoE technique) has been used in order to derive a mathematical-empirical 

model relating the geometrical and fluid-dynamic parameters with the system "response". 

The geometric parameters, defining the shape of the spindle, have been successively used 

to create a parametric CAD model with the corresponding technical drawings. 

The developed methodology, tested on a series of prototypes, proved to be effective in 

forecasting the characteristic curves of vane type air motor; moreover, due to the 

extremely low computational cost, it allows to assess a large number of design 

alternatives and to select the one best fitting the design target. 

Keywords: Spindle design, air motor, parametric modeling, Design of Experiment 

Corresponding Author: Yary Volpe 

Tel.: +39-554796396 


53 



Fax.: +39-554796700 

e-mail: yary.volpe@unifi.it 

Address: via di Santa Marta, 3, 50139 Firenze. 

A novel method for sensitivity analysis and characterization 

in integrated engineering design 

A. O. Andrisano (a), M. Ansaloni (a), F. Leali (a), M. Pellicciari (a), A. Vergnano (a) 

(a) Department of Mechanical and Civil Engineering – University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The present research work aims to analyze and characterize processes in terms of 

sensitivity of their performances. Robust design techniques, generally adopted for product 

and process optimization, are not suited for investigating sensitivity. Then a novel 

approach to such engineering problem needs to be proposed. 

Method: 

The developed method integrates and extends to the analysis of manufacturing and 

technological processes the Performance Sensitivity Distribution (PSD) theory, primarily 

introduced to provide analytical and geometric description of performance sensitivity for 

robotic mechanisms. 

Result: 

Such novel method, named Specialized PSD, starts from the clarification of the sensitivity 

analysis problem by defining key parameters, i.e. Design Variables (DVs), Design 

Parameters (DPs) and Performance Functions (PFs). According to the PSD theory, PF 

sensitivity is expressed in terms of deviations of DVs and DPs and it is geometrically 

described by a hyperellipsoid in the n-dimensional space. Sensitivity indexes are then 

introduced to assess PF variation for different combinations of DVs and DPs deviations. 

Regression Analysis is adopted to provide the mathematical description of PFs so the PSD 

theory is finally specialized to be applied in a process sensitivity analysis. Injection molding 

of a plastic specimen is finally investigated to validate the proposed method. 


This work specialize the PSD theory for manufacturing and technological processes, 

extending its original field of application thanks to a novel approach to the analytical 

expression of the PFs. Moreover, when 2 or 3 parameters are considered, sensitivity 

indexes are graphically represented through tolerance maps of colour, so the method can 

be easily adopt for integrated design, especially in the early stage of product and process 

development. 

Keywords: Robust Design, Engineering Process, Performance Sensitivity, Sensitivity Maps 

Corresponding Author: Matteo Ansaloni 

Tel.: +390592056278 

Fax.: +390592056126 


54 



e-mail: matteo.ansaloni@unimore.it 

Address: via Vignolese, 905/B – 41125, Modena (Italy). 

Analysis tool of the management 

of integrated systems of implementation 

in the design of systems of industrial organization in Smes 

industrial devoted to mounts and electrical installations 

P. Ibáñez Carabantes (a), J. Sancho Val (a), A. Fernández Sora (a), B. Callejero Cornao (a) 

(a) Universidad de Zaragoza, España - Departamento de Ingeniería de Diseño y Fabricación 

Abstract: 

In the present communication sets out the main characteristics of a tool of software 

developed for the analysis of the management of integrated systems of implementation in 

Smes industrial devoted to mounts and electrical installations. 

The design of this software and its implementation in different companies in this industrial 

sector, is one of the stages that make up the development of the doctoral thesis with the 

title SYSTEMS DESIGN OF INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION IN SMES INDUSTRIAL DEVOTED TO 

MOUNTS AND electrical installations, in the territorial scope of the Autonomous Region of 

Aragon. 

After the analysis of commercial applications of management, and detect shortcomings 

relevant for companies in this industrial sector, raised the development of a tool of control 

and valuation of the management of processes adapted to the particularity of the 

companies installing electric, which would act on appropriate procedures and thereby 

save the conditioning raised. 

The implementation of this software on a representative number of companies, has 

enabled progress in the next stages of generating a model for the management 

organizational integral that meets the requirements of a functional design dynamic, and in 

which the technical structure and manager of the system, is responsible for the 

coordination and overall management of the same. 

At present, and because of the situation of decline in production and economic deflation, 

the management structure does not evolve toward criteria of expansion, but maintains its 

functional structure. The work associated with this activity is based on tasks that can 

sustain this business structure minimum, and being expectant that the time economic 

change and the economy to resume challenges more ambitious. 

Keywords: Model, Industrial Design, Integral Organizing Management, Smes industrial 

Corresponding Author: Pedro Ibáñez Carabantes 

Tel.:+34 976 761000 ext. 5067 

Fax.:+34 97676 2620 

e-mail: pedrogas@unizar.es 

Address: Universidad de Zaragoza, C/ Maria de Luna, 3. Edificio Torres Quevedo.50018 - Zaragoza. 


55 



Shape Similarity: Methods and Industrial Applications 

D. Francia (a), A. Ceruti (a), G. Caligiana (a), A. Liverani (a) 

(a) University of Bologna 

Abstract: 

Mass production, reduced production investment, reduced response time and variability, 

globalization and increased customization are the most responsible for the need of 

optimizing the manufacturing process. As companies provide higher levels of 

customization, the number of products offered increases. Minimizing the cost of providing 

variety is possible by exploiting shape similarities amongst parts and products. Another 

reason for utilization of similarity assessment is the cost estimation. Total cost of any part 

to machine results from material costs, setup costs, tooling costs, and operation costs. 

Furthermore in very small productions the total cost of new components is affected more 

than 70% by process planning and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) programming. A 

relevant part of this time may be saved by modifying the process plan of an old similar 

part and this is a well known practice in the manufacturing industry. 

Shape similarity search in a CAD system is an answer to reduce process plan preparation 

because it finds similarities in geometry by extracting shape signatures from the 3D 

models and then comparing these signatures exploiting distance functions. This paper 

presents a review of the methods adopted to generate shape signatures and an analysis of 

the distance functions suitable for the comparison. The first part of this work investigates 

the models commonly proposed to extract the shape signature from a solid part. The 

second part of the paper discusses the choice of the distance function. At the end of this 

discussion the most appropriate method is proposed to assess the shape similarity, once 

the part to be manufactured has been assigned: results are shown in terms of accuracy of 

comparison and computational time, seeking for a trade-off between them. 

Keywords: Shape Similarity, Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacturing, 

Standardization 

Corresponding Author: Daniela Francia 

Tel.: +39.051.2093352 

Fax.: +39.051.2093412 

e-mail: d.francia@unibo.it 

Address: v.le Risorgimento, 2, 40137 Bologna. 


56 



A survey on systematic innovation strategies 

for product design and development 

C. Bandera (a), S. Filippi (a), B. Motyl (a) 

(a) DIEGM, Dept., University of Udine, Udine, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Aim of this work is a survey on systematic innovation strategies used for the development 

of new products or in product improvement and optimization processes. In particular, the 

authors investigate the innovation synergies coming from the combination of TRIZ 

methods with other problem solving and creativity enhancements methods, and their 

relationship with particular application fields. 

Method: 

The survey is based on a literature review of academic publications present in indexed 

DBs. Twenty-nine case studies were collected and analyzed about non-TRIZ tools used in 

combination with TRIZ tools. For each case, the level of systematic innovation introduced 

by the use of the different methodologies is qualitatively evaluated using the so-called 

individual innovation index. This index is based on two other specific indices: the solution 

innovativeness and the synergy level. Then a brief overview of the four most used non- 

TRIZ tools adopted in the selected case studies, quality function deployment, ecodesign, 

case-based reasoning, and axiomatic design, is offered. 

Result: 

The analysis of the twenty-nine selected cases gives only partial results, so the 

introduction of a corrected innovation index, which considers the systematic innovation 

level of the presented methodologies given the sample size of the different non-TRIZ 

tools, has been done. The analysis of the application field has been performed as well. 


The research highlighted the growing importance of the application of the combination of 

strategies that uses TRIZ and non-TRIZ tools, as the well-known quality function 

deployment or the promising ecodesign, the case-based reasoning, and the axiomatic 

design. Moreover, it seems that there is no explicit relationship between specific 

innovation strategies and application fields, while it has emerged that systematic 

innovation is mainly used during the first phases of the product development process. 

Keywords: Systematic Innovation, TRIZ, 

QFD, Case-Based Reasoning, Ecodesign 

Corresponding Author: Barbara Motyl 

Tel.: +390432558291 

Fax.: +390432558256 

e-mail: barbara.motyl@uniud.it 

Address: Via delle Scienze, 208 – 33100 Udine Italy. 


57 



A web-based Platform 

to design Energy Efficient Electric Motors 

C. Favi (a), M. Germani (a), M. Marconi (a), M. Mengoni (a) 

(a) Department of Mechanical Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The paper presents an innovative web-based platform for the design of energy efficient 

electric motors. The proposed system aims to answer the increasing demand of 

environmentally sustainable products and services which integrate electric motors whose 

energy consumption has been forecasted to rise to 721 TWh by 2015 by the European 

Commission. 

Method: 

The core of the platform is a knowledge-based system to configure and optimize the 

design solution according to the rules and guidelines which formalize manufacturing 

companies know-how and best practices. It integrates different SW tools to support 

electric motor development from conceptual design to detailed design and from design 

solution optimization to environmental impact assessment, up to the evaluation of 

manufacturing costs. The platform also provides a collaborative product development 

area where data can be exchanged among all process stakeholders and shared workflows 

can be managed. 

Results: 

The prototypal platform is applied to design a brushless PM efficient motor for producing 

machinery for furniture manufacturing. The achieved result increases current three-phase 

motor efficiency to 13% and reduces the emission of CO2 to 0.82 KgCO2 eq per hour of 

use. 


The conclusion provides some discussions of experimental results to point out the main 

proposed challenges in electric motor design methodologies and the innovative features 

of the EROD platform. 

Keywords: design methodology, energy efficiency, knowledge-based system, electric 

motor. 

Corresponding Author: Claudio Favi 

Tel.: +390712204797 

e-mail: c.favi@univpm.it 

Address: via Brecce Bianche I, 60131 Ancona, Italy. 


58 



Integrated Design of Robotic Workcells 

for High Quality Machining 

A. O. Andrisano (a), F. Leali (a), M. Pellicciari (a), F. Pini (a), A. Vergnano (a) 


Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Robotic workcells provide high flexibility and reconfigurability, cost effectiveness and user 

friendly programming for many industrial applications but still lack in accuracy, so 

important fields of application such as mechanical machining are currently covered by 

very expensive and rigid systems (machining centers). The present work investigates the 

possibility to extend the use of industrial robots to perform high quality machining. 

Method: 

The proposed method is focused on the enhancement of robotic machining accuracy 

through an integrated design method, based on robotic process simulation and tailored 

design of mechanical apparatus and software modules for robot control and 

programming. Advanced techniques for machining strategy validation, automatic robot 

path generation, workcell calibration, robot code commissioning are concurrently 

adopted. 

Result: 

Integrated design tools are fully exploited to define the system behavior, to simulate the 

whole process, to propose alternative machining set-ups and quickly generate and test 

parametric programs. The design method is finally applied to design a robotic workcell 

family for grinding special austenitic manganese steel casts, characterized by severe 

working conditions as high tool wear, high cutting forces, high vibrations due to surface 

hardness and non-repetitive shape variations in geometry and features. 


Experimental results demonstrate enhanced performance of robotic workcells and final 

quality, due to minimization of tool vibration, increasing of robot stiffness and higher 

manufacturing flexibility, thanks to the capability of adapting robot paths to workpieces. 

Keywords: Integrated Design, Robotic Machining, Manufacturing Simulation, Offline 

Programming 

Corresponding Author: Fabio Pini 

Tel.: +390592056278 

Fax.: +390592056126 

e-mail: fabio.pini@unimore.it 

Address: via Vignolese, 905/B – 41125, Modena (Italy). 


59 



Understanding a particular semantic dimension: 

how selecting the products for evaluation tests? 

E. Aliouat (a), J. F. Petiot (b), D. Blumenthal (c), M. Danzart (c), J. M. Sieffermann (c) 

(a) Renault, Direction de la Recherche, Groupe Perception et Analyse Sensorielle DREAM/DTAA, 

Technocentre Renault, France. 

(b) Institut de Recherche en Communications et Cybernétique de Nantes (UMR CNRS 6597), Ecole 

Centrale de Nantes, France. 

(c) Agroparistech, Laboratoire de perception Sensorielle et Sensométrie, France 

Abstract: 

In the industrial field, manufacturers frequently aim to improve acceptation by targeting 

global trends of consumers’ liking (to create a product that looks innovative, robust…). 

Sensory Science could support this task by evaluating perception and tastes (e.g. in 

sensory profiles or in hedonic tests) or even semantic dimensions regarding products of 

the marketplace. Nevertheless, the choice of these products may have significant 

consequences on the reliability of the results (and bring about biased conclusions). The 

control of this kind of effect is very tough because the choice of the products is imposed 

by constraints (costs, availability…). We attempt to develop a method to have a maximum 

of relevant information with a minimum of products. The present work deals with an 

experimental method, called “Features Picking”, using consumers’ feedback to define a 

product space. To illustrate the method, the proposed application concerns a specific 

semantic dimension: the fluidity of shape of car dashboards. In this case, 60 subjects 

selected “key products” according to the defined semantic dimension and attempted to 

verbalize which design features can explain it. Then, we assessed some statistical methods 

between hedonic and descriptive data to evaluate the efficiency of this approach. We 

finally highlighted the method giving the more relevant features with a reduced number of 

products. In this paper, we describe how we reduced a large set of 30 products to a subset 

of 11 products while keeping a maximum of information (87 % of the total information 

generated by the subjects). 

Keywords: Sensory Science, Sensorial Design, Product Space, Subjective evaluation, 

Features Picking 

Corresponding Author: Emmanuel Aliouat 

Tel.: +33 1 76832791 

e-mail: emmanuel.aliouat@renault.com 

Address: 1 avenue du Golf 78288 Guyancourt CEDEX, France. 


60 



Integrated product and process design 

for microproduct development via microforming 

W. L. Chan (a), M. W. Fu (a) 

(a) Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 

Abstract: 

Microforming, which offers attractive characteristics of low production cost and high 

product quality that are superior to those of other processes, provides a promising 

process to manufacture micropart. Nowadays, microforming system design is generally 

conducted via trial-and-error approach based on scaling down and modifying the 

conventional macroforming system. However, when the forming system is scaled down to 

micro-scale, the conventional knowledge on the macroforming system design might not 

be valid. Late design changes are always needed. It is thus costly, time-consuming and 

error-prone. To address these challenges, “design right the first time” and “optimal 

design” are critical. Obtaining the optimal design in the conventional design paradigm 

would be very difficult, if not impossible, as there are many technical aspects related to 

the design of micro-scaled part, forming process, tooling and product quality control, 

which interact and interplay. Therefore, concurrent consideration of these technical 

aspects at up-front design stage is essential. In this paper, the technical aspects among the 

micro-scaled product and process design, and the material size-related deformation 

behaviours are articulated. The understanding of these technical aspects is critical to 

fabricate quality microproduct at high production rate and low production cost by 

microforming. 

Keywords: Microproduct, Microforming, Material size effect, Product miniaturization 

Corresponding Author: M. W. Fu 

Tel.: 852-27665527 

Fax.: 852-23654703 

E-mail: mmmwfu@polyu.edu.hk 

Address: Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, 

Kowloon, Hong Kong. 


61 



A Procedure for Early Environmental Assessment 

of Industrial Products 

C. Rocco (a), S. Rizzuti (a), L. De Napoli (a) 

(a) University of Calabria, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rende, ITALY 

Abstract: 

The paper presents a procedure that a designer can use in the early phase of product 

development in order to assess the environmental impact of the solution on which he/she 

is working on. 

Several methodologies are employed for this purpose, but basically we focus the attention 

on the functional analysis by means of its graph structure and the DSM, Design Structure 

Matrix. Both methods share the matrix format to manage functionalities and the relations 

among them or components and the connections among them. 

The original DSM format has been modified, introducing new records where the 

interaction with the environment outside is recorded. A set of rules have been defined by 

which it is possible to reach a rough assessment of the environmental impact. 

The paper discusses the employment of the methodology with a test case. 

Keywords: Sustainability, Conceptual Design, 

Functional Analysis, DSM, Early Assessment 

Corresponding Author: Claudio Rocco 

Tel.:+39 0984 494757 

Fax.:+39 0984 494736 

e-mail:claudio-rocco@hotmail.it 

Address: Ponte Pietro Bucci 46/C, 87030, Rende (Cosenza), Italy. 

Solving an engineering problem in shipbuilding by Triz method 

A. Nocerino (a), M. Pappalardo (a), A. Pellegrino (a), F. Villecco (a) 

(a) University of Salerno, Department of Industrial Engineering 

Abstract: 

This work follows from an application of Triz theory to an engineering problem. The 

mounting and positioning of a logo-structure on the ship funnel, which seems to be a 

simple technical problem, might lead instead to a significant number of aesthetic, 

structural and shipyard organization problems. After a careful examination of the various 

solutions proposed, it was decided to analyze it by means of Triz methodology. 

The analysis of technical reports and thanks to some works related to this field, we have 

obtained the solution of the problem with the help of software specifically devoted to 


62 



organizing and managing information. This obtained solution has been used and tested in 

an European shipyard for a concrete shipbuilding problem. 

Keywords: Design, Triz, Shipbuilding 

Corresponding Author: Arcangelo Pellegrino 

Tel.: 089-964308 

Fax.: 089-964037 

e-mail:apellegrino@unisa.it 

Address: Via Ponte don Melillo, 84084, Fisciano (SA). 


63 


IMAGE PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS 


65 


Image Processing and Analysis 

Image Processing and Tactile Methodologies 

of a Navigation System for Visually Impaired People 

N. Ortigosa (a), V. M. Santiago (a), S. Morillas (b), L.Dunai (a), G. Peris Fajarnés (a) 

(a) Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

(b) Instituto Universitario de Matemática Pura y Aplicada, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

Abstract: 

The development of a navigation system to provide information of the environment is a 

significant progress in the daily living of blind and visually impaired people. This document 

introduces a project whose objective is to provide the distances up to the objects that are 

present in a scenario, combining the information captured by two stereo cameras and 

using a tactile sensor array to represent the image by means of the surface that will be 

touched by the visually impaired person. So, on the one hand, the device integrates the 

image processing algorithms capable of obtaining the depth maps from which we extract 

the distances up to the objects of the scene. On the other hand, the information extracted 

by the image processing algorithms is shown to the blind user by means of a “tactel” (an 

array of tactile elements in which each one is equivalent to a pixel of the image scenario), 

so different depths will be detected and represented. In addition, the stereo cameras will 

be integrated over a pair of sun glasses, in order to facilitate the way that the visually 

impaired person can wear them. 

Keywords: Stereo vision, Tactile elements, Navigation system, Depth map 

Corresponding Author: Nuria Ortigosa 

Tel.: +34 963879518 

Fax.: +34 963879519 

e-mail: nuorar@upvnet.upv.es 

Address: Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia (Spain). 

Automated dyeing of free-form leather patch edges: 

a Machine Vision based system 

L. Governi (a), Y. Volpe (a), M. Toccafondi (a), M. Palai (a) 


Abstract: 

Many fashioned leather goods are characterized by seamless but visible edges, finished by 

means of time-consuming iterative processes involving edge grinding and subsequent 

dyeing. In the last years great efforts have been made by scientific and technical 

community to automate many leather manufacturing processes; therefore, the need to 


66 



carry out manually the edge dyeing procedure represents a bottleneck for the entire 

leather finishing process. As a consequence the development of an automated dyeing 

procedure is advisable. The main purpose of the present work is to describe a Machine 

Vision based system for automatically dyeing leather patch edges. Such a system 

comprises two main parts: a Machine Vision (MV) system devoted to leathers edge 

detection and a CNC painting pantograph (2 axis Cartesian robot) whose painting tool is 

moved according to the output of the MV apparatus. The developed system, tested on a 

prototype dyeing machine, proved to be effective in delivering high quality edge finishing. 

Keywords: Leather dyeing, Machine Vision, Process automation. 

Corresponding Author: Lapo Governi 

Tel.: +39-554796396 

Fax.: +39 -554796700 

e-mail: lapo.governi@unifi.it 


Automatic image-based car profile character line recognition 

M. Fiorentino (a), A. E. Uva (a), G. Monno (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Gestionale, DiMEG, Politecnico di Bari 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This paper presents an automatic image based tool for character lines recognition of 

automotive profiles. 

Method: 

A novel Matlab program scans automotive pictures on the web recognizing the wheels 

and the main feature lines. 

Result: 

The system can scan a large dataset of existing or concept car models using image search 

engines. 


Taking advantage of the formal topology of automotive profiles the wheels are used as 

main reference for character lines extraction. The algorithm detects wheelbase, roof, 

waist and accent line with a good level of confidence. The collected data can be used for 

statistical studies and to define the character of a car design. 

Keywords: Aesthetic design, character lines recognition, image processing, computer 

aided styling. 

Corresponding Author: Michele Fiorentino 

Tel.: 00390805962800 

Fax.: 00390805962777 


67 



e-mail: Fiorentino@poliba.it 

Address: Viale Japigia 182,70126 Bari, Italy. 

The detection of petroglyphs through digital image processing. 

The particular case of the stone 

inside the chapel of Saint Bartolomé (Lugo-Spain) 

M. L. Gil (a), J. Ortiz (a), S. Martínez (a), B. Vazquez (a),T. Rego(a) 

(a) University of Santiago de Compostela - Department of Ingeniería Agroforestal 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This study explains the process of identifying a petroglyph detected in a rock for its 

subsequent analysis. As the petroglyph is practically invisible to the naked eye, 

photography and digital image processing is used to make its study possible. 

Method: 

Several bands generated from digital photographs captured in the region of the spectrum 

of the visible and NIR permit the digital analysis of the information as in remote sensing: 

the application of diverse algorithms, true colour composites, false colour NIR composites, 

filters and enhancements. 

Result: 

The best results obtained correspond with the true colour composite image filtered with a 

Gaussian filter 3x3 and enhanced with an adaptive enhancement. The inverse image also 

provides useful information for the analysis of the petroglyph. The highlighted features of 

the stone are, finally, digitalized. 


The processing applied, allows emphasize the existence of a petroglyph. NIR image 

analysed has not contributed to provide notable information to the possible existence of 

rests of paintings or micro-vegetation. 

Keywords: Petroglyph, identification, terrestrial, image processing. 

Corresponding Author: Mª Luz Gil 

Tel.:647344115 

Fax.:982 285926 

e-mail: ml.gil@usc.es 

Address: Escuela Politécnica Superior, Campus Univeristario s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain. 


68 



Automatic alignment of multi-view range maps 

by optical stereo-tracking 

S. Barone (a), A. Paoli (a), A. V. Razionale (a) 

(a) University of Pisa, Department of Mechanical, Nuclear and Production Engineering 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Industrial reverse engineering applications usually require reliable multi-view 

measurements of complex shapes obtained by full field techniques. One of the most 

challenging issues in this field is represented by the automatic computation of the best 

transformation parameters relating the different views into a common reference system. 

Method: 

A low cost optical tracking system has been developed with the aim at creating an 

automatic procedure to align 3D point clouds captured by a structured light system. The 

tracking system uses stereo images and retro-reflective infrared markers rigidly connected 

to the scanner. Markers are accurately tracked on the basis of automatic intensity-based 

analyses. Stereo correspondences are established by using epipolar and similarity 

constraints. 

Result: 

Experimental tests have been carried out in order to evaluate the capabilities of the 

developed system in the measurement process of nominal benchmarks and complex 

shapes. 


The accuracy obtained in the automatic alignment of multiple views justifies the use of the 

proposed approach in the speed up of the measurement process for reverse engineering 

applications, especially when conventional high-end systems cannot be applied. 

Keywords: Reverse engineering, Stereo vision, Optical tracking. 

Corresponding Author: Alessandro Paoli 

Tel.: +39 050 2218174 

Fax.: +39 050 2218065 

e-mail: a.paoli@ing.unipi.it 

Address: Largo Lucio Lazzarino 1, - 56100 Pisa - Italy. 


69 



Automatic detection and tracking of planar markers 

in a stereo-vision system 

P. Franciosa (a), S. Gerbino (a) 

(a) University of Molise, School of Engineering, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The present paper deals with the development of self-identifying planar markers which 

are automatically detected, tracked and reconstructed in 3D in a stereo-vision system. 

Method: 

Firstly, for every acquired image, the connected domains are segmented and classified by 

applying an adaptive thresholding algorithm. Once visual markers are extracted, based on 

specific inner geometric rules, they are classified by using a planar homography and then 

matched with a marker library. Two commercial low-cost webcams, arranged in 

stereoscopic configuration, were adopted. Cameras are calibrated by using the Zhang’s 

planar calibration procedure. A fast and efficient implementation is proposed based on 

the automatic marker detection. Finally, 3D triangulation is performed on the pairs of 

captured images. 

Result: 

The proposed algorithms were compared with an open-source package for camera 

calibration. Results pointed-out a faster calibration procedure not influenced by manual 

user interaction, and a less sensitivity on the number of calibration points and images. The 

implemented GUI drives the user to easily perform camera calibration and marker 

tracking. 


The adopted marker layout allows to recognise coded markers even in presence of high 

(till 70°) projective angles. The proposed scheme for marker detection permits to easily 

edit and extend the marker library. More investigation is needed to improve the algorithm 

efficiency to make it more robust against illumination conditions and marker occlusions. 

Keywords: marker detection, camera calibration, stereo-vision, video-processing, 

advanced GUI 

Corresponding Author: Salvatore Gerbino 

Tel.: +39 0874 404593 

Fax.: +39 0874 404978 

e-mail: salvatore.gerbino@unimol.it 

Address: Via Duca degli Abruzzi - 86039 Termoli (CB) - Italy. 


70 



Fast Correction of Tiled Display Systems on Planar Surfaces 

C. Zoido (a), J. Maroto (a), G. Romero (a), J. Felez (a) 

(a) CITEF – Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. 

Abstract: 

A method for fast colour and geometric correction of a tiled display system is presented in 

this paper. Such kind of displays are a common choice for virtual reality applications and 

simulators, where a high resolution image is required. They are the cheapest and more 

flexible alternative for large image generation but they require a precise geometric and 

colour correction. The purpose of the proposed method is to correct the projection 

system as fast as possible so in case the system needs to be recalibrated it doesn’t 

interfere with the normal operation of the simulator or virtual reality application. This 

technique makes use of a single conventional webcam for both geometric and 

photometric correction. Some previous assumptions are made, like planar projection 

surface and negligible intra-projector colour variation and black-offset levels. If these 

assumptions hold true, geometric and photometric seamlessness can be achieved for this 

kind of display systems. The method described in this paper is scalable for an undefined 

number of projectors and completely automatic. 

Keywords: Tiled displays, Projection, Simulation, Blending, Geometric alignment 

Corresponding Author: Jesus Felez 

Tel.: +34 91 336 31 16 

Fax.: +34 915 618 618 

e-mail: jesus.felez@upm.es 

Address: CITEF – Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. c/ José Gutierrez Abascal, 2. 28660 Madrid - 

Spain. 

Evolution of the Design and Decoration Processes 

of Ceramic Tiles 

B. Defez, F. Giménez Alcaide, V. Santiago, G. Peris-Farjarnés, T. Magal 

(a) Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia 

Abstract: 

Ceramic tiles offer a technical and aesthetical solution very attractive for the covering of 

any kind of floor, regardless size, employment and environmental constraints. The designs 

of the decorated surface of the product have varied enormously since the beginning of the 

employment of the ceramic tiles in construction, both in considering the creative phase 

and the printing technology. In this work we relate the evolution of these two factors, 

their relationship through time and the last tendencies of the sector, where digital image 

processing and inkjet printing are gaining importance. 


71 



Keywords: ceramic tiles, digital image processing, inkjet printing. 

Corresponding Author: Beatriz Defez 

Tel.:+34963879518 

Fax:+34963879519 

Email: bdefez@degi.upv.es 

Address:Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Camino de Vera S/N, 8L, 2º, 46022 Valencia (Spain) 


72 


REVERSE ENGINEERING 


73 


Reverse Engineering 

Automation of the finishing process 

of steel yacht hulls based on optical scanning 

A. Paoli (a), A. V. Razionale (a), D. Saba (a) 

(a) University of Pisa, Department of Mechanical, Nuclear and Production Engineering 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The manufacturing of large yacht hulls is a complex process in the shipbuilding industry. 

The traditional approach is based on the pre-fabrication of large steel panels that are 

welded together to form 3D superstructure assemblies. One of the most relevant aspects 

of a yacht is its visual impact. For this reason, a finishing phase is usually carried out in 

order to obtain a final target surface with smooth curvature. Current methodologies 

mainly rely on manual processes thus requiring a great amount of time and wellexperienced 

workers. 

Method: 

This paper introduces an innovative methodology representing the basis for the 

automation of the finishing phase of large yacht hulls. The proposed approach is based on 

the measurement of the as-built hull surface through the integration of an active stereo 

vision system and a complex mechanical tracking system. A procedure to define the target 

surface has been developed by integrating information deriving from both the design and 

the as-built shapes. 

Result: 

The developed methodology has been tested on a broadside region of the hull of a 59 

metres yacht assembled within a shipyard. A target surface, differing as little as possible 

from the design surface, has been modelled in order to obtain a uniform curvature shape. 

A finishing phase has then been carried out by applying a layer of filler and by milling the 

hull’s surface. 


Results obtained have demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed approach, speeding 

up the whole process and guaranteeing fair reflection line patterns on the manufactured 

surface. 

Keywords: Shipbuilding industry, Reverse engineering, Robotic system, Surface modelling. 

Corresponding Author: Alessandro Paoli 

Tel.: +39 050 2218174 

Fax.: +39 050 2218065 

e-mail: a.paoli@ing.unipi.it 

Address: Largo Lucio Lazzarino 1, - 56100 Pisa - Italy 


74 



Construction of a geometric reference model 

for automatic non-ideality evaluation 

of an acquired high-density workpiece 

L. Di Angelo (a), P. Di Stefano (a), A. E. Morabito (b) 

(a) Department of Industrial Engineering, University of L’Aquila, Italy 

(b) Department of “Ingegneria dell’Innovazione”, University of Lecce, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

For some years now, our research group has been developing a new methodology for 

automatic tolerance inspection starting from an acquired high-density 3D model. In this 

paper, with a view to grouping together all the information recognisable in a scanned 

object, a new data structure, called Recognised Geometric Model (RGM), is proposed. 

Based on this data structure, the evaluation of the non-idealities of the acquired object 

(form, orientation and location non-idealities) can be automatically carried out. 

Method: 

RGM is the result of an approach founded on the concepts of non-ideal feature and 

intrinsic nominal reference. The object to be inspected is segmented into a set of nonideal 

features and, for each of them, one or more intrinsic nominal references are 

identified. An Intrinsic Nominal Reference is detected when a geometric property has 

been recognised to be common to a set of adjacent points in the 3D data set representing 

the acquired object. The recognition of these references from a scanned object is carried 

out based on some rules which, therefore, play a leading role in the definition of the 

domain of the representable entities within RGM. 

Result: 

New and old categories of form non-idealities are here defined and some procedures are 

proposed for a more robust process of verification of traditional tolerance categories 

(such as the straightness of a cylinder generatrix). 


When using the RGM, tolerances can be specified according to the set of available and 

recognisable intrinsic nominal references. This allows for the automatic geometric 

inspection of the workpiece. However, the approach here proposed does not rule out the 

possibility of querying the RGM data structure by explicit geometric product 

specifications, in order to gather some quantitative information concerning special 

intrinsic geometric parameters and/or non-idealities. 

Keywords: ISO Tolerancing, Three dimensional Metrology, Triangular Meshes, Shape 

recognition, Automated inspection. 


e-mail: luca.diangelo@univaq.it 

Address: Via G. Gronchi 18, L’Aquila, Italy 


75 



On the performance 

of several stereo calibration methods and models 

R. Furferi (a), L. Governi (a), M. Nunziati (a) 


Abstract: 

Stereo vision is a well-known technique which relies on a pair of cameras in order to 

reconstruct the shape and position of a generic object, without any additional 

geometrical and/or parametric information. The central issue in the set-up of a stereo 

vision system is two-fold: as first, removing the geometrical distortion caused by camera 

lens from images, then, make cameras aware of their own relative position in space. This 

paper is aimed to test the influence of different components of a calibration routine. In 

particular the goal is to compare the performance of several optimization algorithms and a 

number of alternative implementations of the pin-hole model. A main difference between 

this work and other tests present in literature is that the calibration performance is 

evaluated with respect to the measurement accuracy of the system, rather than by means 

of estimated reconstruction errors. In such a way, we get rid of theoretical errors, which 

do not represent any real application case, and we evaluate the accuracy on-the-field, 

facing with real-world issues. 

The obtained results show that, even though very complex equations can be used in order 

to represent cameras, usually, simpler pin-hole models remain competitive and robust, 

while refinements can be attained by using more powerful operational research 

algorithms. 

Keywords: Camera model, Computer vision, Stereo calibration. 

Corresponding Author: Matteo Nunziati 

Tel.: (+39) 0554796394 

Fax.: (+39) 0554796400 

e-mail: matteo.nunziati@unifi.it 


Computation of optimal acquisition viewpoints 

for the 3D optical inspection of mechanical components 

R. Raffaeli (a), M. Germani (a), F. Mandorli (a), M. Mengoni (a) 

(a) Department of Mechanics, Polytechnic University of Marche 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 


76 



In the mechanical field agile production requires rapid and flexible shop-floor control 

techniques in order to verify the manufacturing operations effectiveness. To accomplish 

this goal, 3D scanning systems are evermore used for quality control purposes. Generally, 

3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) product models can be used as reference in order to 

manage the verification process. The geometrical information represented in the 3D CAD 

model can be used in order to virtually plan, simulate and pilot the inspection process. 

Even if many methods have been developed to support view planning from known 3D CAD 

models, it is still necessary to study strategies and tools to improve the verification 

process performance. 

Method: 

The present work targets the development of view planning algorithms in order to 

support the automatic inspection of 3D shapes, including dimensional and geometrical 

tolerances. 

Result: 

Algorithms have been implemented in a prototypal software system that has been 

experimented as off-line application to provide inputs to a multi-axis Degree of Freedom 

(DoF) robot arm mounting an optical 3D scanner. 


Two test cases from automotive and die casting fields are presented. They show the 

computation of acquisition poses in a suitable sequence and correspondence to the 

experimental data. 

Keywords: GD&T, 3D scanning, Inspection, View Planning, Quality Control 

Corresponding Author: Roberto Raffaeli 

Tel.: +39 071 2204799 

Fax.: +39 071 2204801 

e-mail: r.raffaeli@univpm.it 

Address: Via Brecce Bianche 12, Ancona (Italy). 

Experimental analysis 

for error compensation of laser scanner data 

F. De Crescenzio (a), M. Fantini (a), F. Lucchi (a), L. Seccia (b) 

(a) Second Faculty of Engineering – University of Bologna 

(b) Second Faculty of Engineering and CIRAM – University of Bologna 

Abstract: 

Among the different techniques of (RE), laser scanners are one of the most used 

instruments. The output of these optical technologies is a digital 3D description of a 

studying object, which is defined by a point cloud that approximates its surface. Reverse 

pipeline consists in a process beginning with the acquisition of object’s surface, described 


77 



by range maps acquired from different points of view. Further steps of the post-processing 

procedure allow to obtain the final output as a unique and well defined mesh. 

Laser scanners, as measure instruments, introduce errors in the 3D coordinates of each 

point cloud acquired, due to object’s surface appearance and reflection property, and also 

to noise components caused from the instrumentation itself. This paper presents an error 

experimental analysis of range maps acquired by an optical triangulation laser scanning 

system (Konica Minolta Vivid 9i), using a painted glass plane as reference object. This 

study is conducted considering that all point clouds acquired are affected by an error 

which is composed by two elements: a random component and a systematic one. In 

scanning processes it is not possible to completely remove the random component, but it 

is only possible to reduce it, in order to detect and define the systematic one, which is 

caused by laser scanner’s inner components and constructive features. 

The goal of this experimental work is to identify a compensation array to apply to the 3D 

coordinates of the range map points, in order to reduce the systematic component of 

error. It is possible to define a different array for every operative condition, depending on 

the distance from object to scanner and on the lens used during the scanning operation. 

By identifying an appropriate compensation array, it is possible to increase data precision 

and reduce noise of the collected laser scanning data. 

Keywords: Laser scanning, Error, Precision, Accuracy. 

Corresponding Author: Francesca Lucchi 

Tel.:0543 374452 

e-mail: f.lucchi@unibo.it 

Address: Via Fontanelle 40, Forlì. 

New CAD/CAM process: 

an elaboration of the geometrical matrices of rosette 

M. Giordano (a), S. Barba (a), L. A. Lopresti (b), G. Defranco (b) 

(a) University of Salerno, Italy 

(b) National University of La Plata, Argentina 

Abstract: 

The research, developed under the project of International Interuniversity Cooperation 

“Laboratory DRAWING AND STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS”, was applied to the study of 

decorative composition of uniplanar geometrical matrices, with the aim of identifying a 

key to understanding the structure of the work leading to a procedure coded for 

successive reproduction with automated systems. 

In the development of possible combinations of basic geometric shapes in the plane, the 

problem of replica is always present (for example, restoration actions), as the repeatability 

of a single part - foundation of his own existence - gives rise to the entire composition. It 

has been sought, therefore, from a careful analysis of the laws of symmetry that dictate 

the generative logic of the ornamental design for a precise canonization of themes and 


78 



motifs, to identify the geometric patterns, allowing the rational control of the decoration 

through the identification of iteration processes in series. The detail is not returned simply 

as it appears, but the theoretical decomposition of the work helps to find, in the 

subsequent reconstruction graphics, the nature and location of each item: a critical 

perspective that leads to a correct and realistic reproduction. The formal models tend to 

become so in geometric models, symbols of a deeper structure, which can be grasped 

with the help of topological patterns. And so, knowing the harmonic law that governs the 

entire composition, as defined by the rigid motion of a default form on a flat reticle, the 

tessellation can easily be reproduced starting from one unit as an entity that can be, with 

the use of machines numerical control, repeated mechanically. 

The possibilities offered by digital modeling and parametric development applications that 

allow the decoration to be reproduced as well as to be deformed have been experimented 

and tested. These applications create new wrapping surfaces of the ornamental theme. 

The procedure has been applied to case studies appropriate to analyze the principles of 

repeatability in series and of laboratory operations. This is possible due to the re-design 

and digital production tools with numerical control technology, to codify the technical 

reproducibility, immaterial and material, of the architectural decorations. 

Keywords: Modeling, 3D creation, Milling software, Prototyping, Tracery 

Corresponding Author: Salvatore Barba 

Tel.: +39 089 96 4062 

Fax.: +39 089 96 4343 

e-mail: sbarba@unisa.it 

Address: Facoltà di Ingegneria, via Ponte don Melillo, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italia. 


79 


SIMULATION AND EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES 


81 


Simulation and Experimental Approaches 

Numerical fatigue life evaluation 

of an innovative internal combustion engine shaft 

T. Ingrassia (a), G. Lo Buglio (a), E. Lombardo (a), V. Nigrelli (a), G. Sergio (a) 

(a) Università degli Studi di Palermo – Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica, Gestionale, Informatica e 

Meccanica 

Abstract: 

A novel self-balanced internal combustion engine is presented. The new engine has a 

modular structure composed of two cylinders arranged in opposite way. It is characterized 

by an innovative system of linking between the pistons and the shaft, which has three 

toggles. One of these is on the middle of the shaft, whereas the others two are placed 

symmetrically. Thanks to this particular shape of the shaft, the pistons can move with the 

same timing and so the new engine comes back to be perfectly auto-balanced. 

Moreover, the fatigue life prediction of the shaft has been studied through numerical 

methods. 

In particular, two different approaches have been compared to estimate the maximum 

number of working cycles: the first is based on a “static” resistance criterion, the second 

considers the multiaxial nature of the stress and is based on the maximum shear stress 

(critical) plane criterion. The stress distribution on the shaft during the usual working 

conditions has been evaluated by a FEM package. Results highlight that the critical plane 

approach is more conservative than the “static” one. 

Keywords: Mechanical design, Crankshaft, Multiaxial fatigue, Finite elements 

Corresponding Author: Vincenzo Nigrelli 

Tel.: 0039 091 6657148 

Fax.: 0039 091 484334 

e-mail: vincenzo.nigrelli@unipa.it 

Address: viale delle Scienze – Edificio 8 – 90128 Palermo (Italy). 

Development of a test machine for the tappet characterization 

S. M. Oliveri (a), M. Calì (a), G. Cacopardo (b), G. Fatuzzo (a), G. Sequenzia (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria Industriale e Meccanica - Università degli Studi di Catania 

(b) Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare – INFN - Catania 

Abstract: 

The containment of the inertia forces, the stiffness optimization of components and the 

tolerance of fits are particularly important to the dynamic behaviour of valve train in 

internal combustion engines 4T. The dynamic study of the valve train, through modern 

computer codes, is performed by connecting lumped masses, springs and dampers that 


82 



characterize each element. In numerical models the tappet is represented as constituted 

by the tappet and The aim of present work is the containment of the inertia forces, the 

stiffness components optimization and the fit tolerances of valve train in internal 

combustion engines 4T. 

The proposed methodology allows, through the development of a test machine, the 

evaluation of axial stiffness of tappet depending on eccentricity of the cam tappet contact, 

performing a functional analysis that simulate the behaviour of the system in operational 

condition, even if, some adjustment of tolerances of the fit between tappet and his guide, 

occurred. 

The dynamic study of the valve train, through modern computer codes, is performed by 

connecting lumped masses, springs and dampers that characterize each element. In 

numerical models the tappet is represented as constituted by the tappet and by the 

hydraulic element. Each of these elements is characterized by stiffness and mass. The 

structural rigidity of the tappet has, in fact, important effects on the dynamic behaviour of 

the entire valve train. 

The test machine makes possible the choice of the dimensional and geometrical 

tolerances of the fit between tappet and his guide; allows furthermore the evaluation of 

errors occurred during construction and integration phase. In addition, the test machine is 

also suitable for reverse engineering applications, makes it possible to automatically draw 

the cam profile in polar coordinates. 

Keywords: Tappet, cam, valve lift, 3D modelling, Reverse engineering. 

Corresponding Author: S. Massimo Oliveri 

Tel.: +39 095 7382404 

Fax.: +39 095 337994 

e-mail: moliveri@diim.unict.it 

Address: Viale A. Doria, 6 Catania. 

An investigation on the validity of 3D clothing simulation 

for garment fit evaluation 

Y. Y. Wu (a), P. Y. Mok (a), Y. L. Kwok (a), J. T. Fan (a), J. H. Xin (a) 

(a) Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 

Abstract: 

Virtual cloth simulation received much attention in the past decade, and the fashion 

industry has been attracted to use this newly available tool in actual product development 

process to strengthen the collaboration along the supply chain and shorten the product 

time to market. This paper serves as an exploratory study to analyse the accuracy of 3D 

cloth simulation system so as to examine its validity and effectiveness in garment fit 

evaluation. A four-phase methodology is proposed in this paper: 20 types of woven fabrics 

are first tested in standard laboratory, and the obtained fabric property data are input to 

simulate the results of a flare skirt design. Real sample skirts are produced for comparison. 


83 



An objective evaluation method is proposed to assess the accuracy of 3D simulation by 

comparing the quality of 3D virtual simulation results. Generally speaking, 3D clothing 

simulation is accurate because 18 out of the 20 tested fabrics have statistically similar 

results of 3D simulation and the real sample. The simulated results of the two fabrics are 

different from the real sample, particularly in the hip areas. Further study is thus required. 

With the range of validity identified, guidelines can be provided to the fashion industry for 

the use of 3D simulation system in design and fit evaluation. 

Keywords: 3D virtual simulation, Garment fit evaluation, Fabric drape. 

Corresponding Author: P.Y. Mok 

Tel.:+852 2766 4442 

Fax.: +852 2773 1432 

e-mail: tracy.mok@inet.polyu.edu.hk 

Address: Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong 

Kong. 

Simulating airport operations in a synthetic environment 

S. Bagassi (a), D. Francia (b), F. Persiani (a) 

(a) Second Faculty of Engineering, University of Bologna 

(b) Faculty of Engineering, University of Bologna 

Abstract: 

Current research on ATM (Air Traffic Management) is progressively focusing on the “green 

operations” concept. The European Commission as well as foreign institutions has 

identified Air Traffic as one of the sectors in which a “green” policy could be successfully 

implemented. Starting from the ACARE strategic research agenda, published in 2002, 

many EU funded projects have been launched aiming at a dramatic reduction of noise and 

pollution produced by Air Transportation System. 

Airport operations strongly affect the pollution and noise produced by an aircraft during 

the whole mission impacting on the environment and people living near airports. On the 

other hand, airport area and more generally the Terminal Aerodrome Zone is the 

bottleneck of Air Traffic System. The maximum capacity of Air Space is limited by the 

capacity of the airports. 

Therefore, the optimization of such operations is recognized as a challenge that aims at 

finding the best trade-off solution in order to maximize the airport capacity and minimize 

both pollution and noise. 

Modelling and simulation are the most powerful tools to study such an optimization 

problem. To help the evaluation of the model performances, a synthetic environment able 

to faithfully represent the airport area and its players (aircraft, helicopters, ground 

vehicles, etc.) is presented in this paper as an analysis tool. 

An experimental scenario that simulates Rome Fiumicino airport has been developed. In it 

aircraft are modelled as single material points and they are moved by an external 


84 



simulation model implemented in Matlab/Simulink. The simulation model accepts as input 

variables the waypoints’ list to be visited by the aircraft and the aircraft speed. It gives as 

output the shortest path on the available taxi ways. The aircraft position at each time step 

is sent through an UDP protocol to the visualization environment and processed in order 

to obtain a fluent animation. 

Keywords: Synthetic environment, Optimization algorithms, Virtual Reality 

Corresponding Author: Sara Bagassi 

Tel.:0543 - 374445 

Fax.:0543 - 374444 

e-mail: sara.bagassi@unibo.it 

Address: via Fontanelle 40, Forlì, Italy. 

Design Of Simulation Experiments method 

for Injection Molding process optimization 

A. O. Andrisano (a), F. Gherardini (a), F. Leali (a), M. Pellicciari (a), A. Vergnano (a) 


Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Many studies demonstrate that DOE, CAE and optimization tools can be very effective in 

product and process development, however their integration is still under investigation, 

hampering the applicability of such engineering methods in Industry. This paper presents a 

Design Of Simulation Experiments (DOSE) method, developed to determine the optimal 

set of process parameters (factors) for given product requirements (responses). 

Method: 

The method is developed performing an original selection and integration of engineering 

procedures and techniques based on DOE, CAE and multi-objective optimization, chosen 

according to the following criteria: ease of application, time-saving and use of reduced 

resources. 

Result: 

The developed method consists of two main steps: a first screening of factors based on a 

fractional DOE is followed by a systematic experimental plan based on the Response 

Surface Methodology (RSM), in which only key factors are investigated. A regression 

model is finally developed to describe the responses as functions of key factors and a 

multi-objective optimization is proposed to obtain optimal responses by tuning the 

process factors in their variability range. The DOSE method is finally validated on the 

design of an injection molded housing for a biomedical application. This thin shell 

component has dimension 45mmx37mmx16mm, wall thickness from 2mm to 0,5mm and 

is made of polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), a high performance thermoplastic. 



85 



The design method achieves good responses in terms of dimensional and geometrical 

requirements (e.g. warpage, shrinkage, sink marks), and improves the shell moldability. 

The DOSE method can be easily adopted in industrial product/process development to 

define the optimal process parameters for a better final quality of the products. 

Keywords: Design Of Experiments (DOE), Simulation experiments, Computer Aided 

Engineering (CAE), Integrated Design, Injection Molding (IM) 

Corresponding Author: Francesco Gherardini 

Tel.: +39 059.205.6278 

Fax.: +39 059.205.6126 

e-mail: fgherardini@unimore.it 

Address: via Vignolese 905/B –41125, Modena (Italy) 

Virtual prototype development 

for comfort assessment of occupational footwear sole 

P. Franciosa (a), S. Gerbino (a), A. Lanzotti (b), S. Patalano (b), 

V. Rufrano (b), M. Trotta (b), L. Silvestri (c), L. Frattari (c) 

(a) University of Molise, School of Engineering 

(b) University of Naples, Federico II, School of Engineering 

(c) SAFE WAY s.r.l 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The present paper focuses on the parametric analysis of the sole of occupational footwear 

in order to improve the perceived human comfort. By combining real experimental tests 

and virtual simulations, the sensitivity of both geometric and material design factors, on 

comfort degree, was investigated. 

Method: 

The correlation among perceived human comfort and physical parameters, such as plantar 

pressures, was estimated by conducting real tests. Experimenters were asked to wear 

three commercial shoes and to express their perceived comfort degree. A bar-foot test 

was also performed. By adopting plantar sensors, plantar pressures were also monitored. 

Once given such a correlation, a parametric FE model of the footwear was developed. In 

order to better simulate the contact at plantar surface, a detailed FE model of the foot 

was also generated starting from CT scan images. 

A fractional factorial design array was, finally, used to study the sensitivity of different sets 

of design factors on comfort degree. In the present study only a static standing-up 

configuration was analyzed. 

Result: 

Findings of this research showed that sole thickness and its material highly influence 

perceived comfort. In particular, softer materials and thicker sole designs contribute to 

increase comfort degree. 


86 




Despite all simplifications and limitations, the proposed methodology may be successfully 

adopted in other industrial applications, in which the design (or re-design) of new 

products is driven by the satisfaction or the sensations of users. 

Keywords: occupational footwear, comfort assessment, numerical-physical correlation, 

virtual prototyping, pressure map. 

Corresponding Author: Salvatore Gerbino 

Tel.: +39 0874 404593 

Fax.: +39 0874 404978 

e-mail: salvatore.gerbino@unimol.it 

Address: Via Duca degli Abruzzi - 86039 Termoli (CB) - Italy. 


87 


GEOMETRIC PRODUCT SPECIFICATION AND TOLERANCING 


89 


Geometric Product Specification and Tolerancing 

An Extracting Points Strategy 

for Flatness Measurement on Components by means of CMM 

R. Rosa (a), S. Rizzuti (a) 

(a) Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, University of Calabria, Italy 

Abstract: 

The paper presents a semiautomatic procedure able to evaluate flatness error on real 

components by means of Coordinate Measuring Machine. The main problem in digital 

metrology is related to the dimension of the sample point size to be used in order to 

measure form errors with sufficient accuracy. The recent GPS rules establish a set of steps 

in which the measurement must be made. extraction is the step in which metrologists are 

urged to trade-off between small sample sizes (related to reduced costs and time) and 

accuracy (which should require a higher number of points). 

The best choice is to use the smallest sample size able to limit the uncertainty in 

measurements. These points should be extracted in the zones of maximum heights and 

valley. 

The paper discusses a procedure that has been tested introducing in the pre-analysis the 

qualitative methodology generally used for flatness evaluation by means of Prussian blue. 

This treatment shows the zones with peaks and valleys in a quick and easy way and the 

Metrologist is therefore able to extract points from these selected areas. 

The paper presents the results obtained about the flatness measurement on a matrix for 

injection moulding. 

Keywords: Flatness, measurement, GPS, CMM, Point extraction, Prussian blue 

Corresponding Author: Raffaele Rosa 

Tel.:+390984494601 

e-mail: r.rosa@unical.it 

Address:Cubo 45 C, via Pietro Bucci, Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy. 

Integration of tolerances in the mechanical product process 

M. Tlija (a), B. Louhichi (a), A. Benamara (a) 

(a) Laboratoire de Génie Mécanique LGM, École Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Monastir. 

Abstract: 

In the design process, minimizing differences between the numerical model and the 

manufactured product is the subject of several researches. It guarantees a better 

optimization of the mechanical product. Tolerance is one of the most used tools in the 

design model to illustrate functional requirements of mechanical systems. However, 


91 



tolerances are represented in the dressing form in the digital model (drawing form) and 

are not considered in the geometric model. Thus, the subject of this paper is to propose a 

model of integration tolerances in the CAD model. Indeed, assemblies modelling on 

configurations with defects are deduced from the tolerances. Thus, detection of the 

impact of tolerances on assembling and operating constraints, at an early step of product 

life cycle management, has become possible. 

Keywords: CAD model, Geometric tolerancing, Dimensional tolerancing, Assembly with 

defects. 

Corresponding Author: Mehdi Tlija 

Tel.: (+216) 97449055 

e-mail: tlija.mehdi@yahoo.fr 

Address: LGM, ENIM, université de Monastir, 5 Av. Ibn Eljazzar, 5019 Monastir, Tunisie. 

The geometrical specification in concurrent product design 

L. López (a), J. Cerqueiro (a), J. Pose (a) 

(a) Universidade de Vigo (Spain) 

Abstract: 

In this paper, in the first place an analysis on the usual practices for the specification of 

acceptable geometrical variability in functional geometrical features of parts is carried out, 

and an interpretation on the ‘geometrical variability specification’ concept as introduced 

by ISO standards is established. In the second place, a wider and more integrative 

proposal for geometric specification is made, conceived as a concurrent process inside the 

product design and development process itself, where all problems referring to 

tolerancing-related information handling along the product life cycle are dealt with. 

Keywords: Geometrical variability, Concurrent product design, ISO standards, 

Tolerancing, Geometrical specification. 

Corresponding Author: Luís López 

Tel.: + 34 986 813942 

Fax.: + 34 986 813644 

e-mail: llopez@uvigo.es 

Address: C/ Torrecedeira, nº86 - 36208 Vigo (Spain). 


92 



Influence of form errors in plane surfaces assemblies 

J. Grandjean (a), Y. Ledoux (b), S. Samper (a) 

(a) SYMME, Polytech'Savoie, BP 80439, FRANCE 

(b) Université de Bordeaux, I2M UMR 5295, FRANCE 

Abstract: 

In tolerancing activity, surfaces are usually considered without any defects (i.e. no 

waviness and no rugosity). Consequently, only size and position defects of surfaces are 

taken into account. The focus of this paper is to show the importance of these surface 

defects on assembly; it is highlighted that even if the real surface respects the geometrical 

specifications, it is possible to have a non-conform assembly. The developed method is 

applied on an assembly which uses two carters composed in parallel of a ball and cylinder 

pair and of a planar pair. 

Keywords: 3D assembly, Form errors, Modal analysis, Positioning force, Non conformity 

rate. 

Corresponding Author: Julien Grandjean 

Tel.:+33 (0) 450 096 597 

e-mail: 

julien.grandjean@univ-savoie.fr 

Address: SYMME, Polytech'Savoie, BP 80439, 74944 ANNECY LE VIEUX Cedex, FRANCE. 

Algorithm to calculate the Minkowski sums 

of 3-polytopes dedicated to tolerance analysis 


D. Teissandier (a), V. Delos (b) 

(a) University of Bordeaux, I2M - France 

(b) University Paris Descartes, MAP5 - France 

Abstract: 

Prompted by the development of algorithms for analysing geometric tolerancing, this 

article describes a method to determine the Minkowski sum for 3-dimension polytopes. 

This purposed method is based exclusively on intersection operations on normal cones, 

using the properties of the normal fan of a Minkowski sum obtained by common 

refinement of the normal fans of the operands. It can be used to determine from which 

vertices of the operands the vertices of the Minkowski sum derive. It is also possible to 

determine to which facets of the operands each facet of the Minkowski sum is oriented. 

First, the main properties of the duality of normal cones and primal cones associated with 

the vertices of a polytope are described. Next, the properties of normal fans are applied to 

define the vertices and facets of the Minkowski sum of two polytopes. 

93 



An algorithm is proposed which generalises the method. An example shows the 

application of the method on an assembly made up of two parts. Lastly, there is a 

discussion of the features of this algorithm, developed using the OpenCascade 

environment. 

Keywords: Geometric tolerancing, Minkowski sum, Polytope, Normal fan 

Corresponding Author: Denis Teissandier 

Tel.: +33 5 4000 6222 

Fax.:+33 5 4000 6964 

e-mail: denis.teissandier@u-bordeaux1.fr 

Address: University of Bordeaux, I2M – UMR CNRS 5295, 351 cours de la liberation, F-33405 Talence 

cedex - France. 

Experimental evaluation of convex difference surface 

for planar joint study 

H. N. Lê (a), Y. Ledoux (a), P. Darnis (a), A. Ballu (a) 

(a) Université de Bordeaux – UMR 5295 CNRS - I2M Institut de Mécanique et d'Ingénierie de Bordeaux 

Abstract: 

In tolerancing, numerous works deal with the theory of tolerance analysis and synthesis of 

mechanisms, others deal with verification of isolated parts, but no study has focused 

specifically on the metrology of mechanisms. Nowaday, the metrology of mechanisms 

begins to be a key parameter for validating the theoretical model of joint. 

At first, a measuring system is presented; it allows to determine experimentally joint 

behaviours. This device is based on a set of displacement sensors, located outside the 

joint, to capture every spatial displacement. From the measures, the three rotations and 

three translations of displacement are computed. The originality of the system is to allow 

the visualization of the gap hull of the joint. Moreover, the distribution of the local form 

defects of the surfaces in contact inside the joint may be determined. In parallel, the 

surfaces in contact are measured with an area surface texture measuring instrument. 

From these measurements, it is proposed to compute theoretically the gap hull. Finally, a 

comparison of both hulls is presented. 

Keywords: Gap hull, Difference surface, Joint behaviour, Form defect, Tolerancing 

Corresponding Author: Alex Ballu 

Tel.: (33)5 4000 66 13 

E-mail: alex.ballu@u-bordeaux1.fr 

Address: 351 Cours de la libération, 33400 TALENCE. 


94 



Assembly analysis for spot-welded compliant assembly: 

Guidelines for formalizing the plasticity contribution 

to tolerance analysis 

S. Moos (a), E. Vezzetti (a), A. Zompì (a) 

(a) Politecnico di Torino – Dipartimento di Sistemi di Produzione ed Economia dell’Azienda 

Abstract: 

The aim of the paper is to define guidelines for integrating the effects of plastic 

deformations into a tolerance analysis model so to better describe the dimensional quality 

of compliant assemblies, in which sheet metal parts are subjected to tolerances and are 

joined by resistance spot welding. 

It is developed a FEM computational model that considers the plastic effects of the 

complete spot welding process. Two worst cases were analysed for a butt joint, the first 

with parts mismatching with a gap and the second with parts mismatching for loading 

interference. 

The analysis results show an important role of material plasticity: the fixture clamping, the 

electrode closure on flanges and the welding thermal cycle cause permanent deformation 

on the parts and affect the assembly dimensional quality. 

In conclusion, to improve the result of tolerance stack-up analysis for compliant 

assemblies it is advisable to consider: isotropic plastic behaviour of material, two distinct 

solution models for gap and interference geometrical conditions, the loading sequence, 

contact surfaces, fixture locator position and dimensions. 

Keywords: Compliant assembly analysis, Tolerance analysis, Quality, Resistance spot 

welding, Plasticity 

Corresponding Author: Sandro Moos 

Tel.: 011 564 7294 

Fax.: 011 564 7299 

e-mail: sandro.moos@polito.it 

Address: Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino. 


95 



Form errors estimation in free-form 2D and 3D geometries 

A. Cerardi (a), R. Meneghello (a), G. Concheri (a), G. Savio (a) 

(a) Università di Padova 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The aim of this work is to present a method for the verification of form tolerances in freeform 

geometries. 

Method: 

New free-form error parameters, in accordance with ISO GPS standards are defined. 

Geometrical errors in 2D e 3D geometries are calculated using a new fitting method 

consisting in an association operation where nominal profile/surface is resized (with an 

offset), located and oriented on the non-ideal geometry. Form tolerance is estimated 

using peak-to-valley deviation after the best fit. 

Result: 

Automatic algorithms are implemented to analyse 2D free-form profiles of moulds for 

ophthalmic lenses obtained with grinding and polishing operations and to analyse 3D freeform 

surfaces of an injection moulded lamp lens for automotive industry. 


The comparison between results obtained using this approach and using traditional fitting 

methods shows differences on the fitting and errors parameters estimation. In particular 

in the traditional fitting there is a repartition of the size error contribution in the 

translation and form errors. The differences increase proportionally to the offset value 

estimated. The calculation of offset parameter allows the separation of size from 

geometric errors in free-form profiles/surfaces and the “true” form error estimation. 

Keywords: Geometric Product Specification, Free-form inspection, Profile tolerancing, 

Product verification, Verification method 

Corresponding Author: Andrea Cerardi 

Tel.: +39 049 8276734 

Fax.: +39 049 8276738 

e-mail: andrea.cerardi@unipd.it 

Address: via Venezia, 1, 35131 Padova Italy. 


96 


DESIGN METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 


97 


Design Methods and Applications 

Redesign of an auto-levelling base 

for submarine seismic sensor 

M. D’Anna (a), T. Ingrassia (a), G. Mangano (b), V. Nigrelli (a) 

(a) Università degli Studi di Palermo 

Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica, Gestionale, Informatica e Meccanica 

(b) Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica - Osservatorio Geofisico di Gibilmanna 

Abstract: 

The OBS (acronym of Ocean Bottom Seismometer) is a system to monitor the submarine 

seismic activity. To properly work, an OBS system needs a suitable auto-levelling base to 

maintain a fixed (horizontal) position during the measurement phases. 

In this work a new auto-levelling base for submarine seismic sensors has been designed. 

During the redesign process a preliminary phase of analysis of the state of art has been 

made. Afterwards, the technological solutions chosen by different manufactures have 

been critically analysed, and a full description of their functionalities, working principles 

and system performances has been carried out. Later, some innovative concepts have 

been proposed. Among these ones, the most interesting are the auto-levelling bases with 

spherical joint, based on: air bearings, ball bearings and magnetic levitation systems. 

The concept scoring method has been used to identify. as best concept, the auto-levelling 

base with spherical joint and air bearings system. 

Successively, the chosen concept has been implemented: the technical working principles 

have been studied to choose the best solutions in terms of dimensions, shapes, materials 

of all base components. A full parametric CAD model of the auto-levelling base has been 

also created. 

The new designed base, by using a very innovative auto-levelling system, allows to obtain 

very good results as regards the accuracy of positioning, so ensuring a remarkable 

improvement of the performances of the ocean bottom seismometers. 

Keywords: Auto-levelling base, Redesign, OBS, Submarine seismic sensor, Air bearings 

Corresponding Author: Vincenzo Nigrelli 

Tel.: 0039 091 6657148 

Fax.: 0039 091 484334 

e-mail: vincenzo.nigrelli@unipa.it 



98 



Measuring dynamical parameters for spherical objects: 

Application for sports training 

E. Lluna (a), V. Santiago Praderas (a), F. Brusola (a), B. Defez (a), I. Lengua Lengua (a) 

(a) Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. 

Abstract: 

Measurement of dynamical parameters like velocity or spin of spherical objects in 

movement is important for different purposes in areas like sports training, ballistic, games, 

aerospace applications, etc. To obtain these data, many different non contact 

measurement techniques have been applied. Common techniques include image 

processing, radar, ultrasound or optical devices. Most of the mentioned methods have 

important drawbacks to be used in real applications. The paper describe a developed 

device to measure dynamical parameters of moving objects based on electro-optical 

sensors and its application to sports training .The device avoids most of the drawbacks 

and can be used on the field or in industrial environments. 

Keywords: Electro-optical device, Non contact measurement, Velocity measurement 

Corresponding Author: Victor Santiago 

Tel.: +34 96 387 95 18 

Fax.: +34 96 387 95 19 

e-mail: vicsanpr@upv.es. 

Structural and Topological Optimization in Robot Design 

S. M. Oliveri (a), M. Calì (a), G. Sequenzia (a), G. Fatuzzo (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria Industriale e Meccanica - Università degli Studi di Catania 

Abstract: 

This work focuses on implementing and applying procedures to optimize the structure of a 

robot. This research addresses the problem of determining the optimal topology which 

maximizes the rigidity of bodies subject to local stress by uniting structures with different 

densities and materials. 

This methodology provides a functional analysis of the robot in operation from a threedimensional 

elastic perspective with a view to deriving the best configuration. 

After a description and an analysis of current optimization techniques, topological and 

geometrical methods, SKO (Soft Kill Option) are implemented in a FEM code to appraise 

the robot’s components and to allow multiple dynamic loading conditions. We discuss 

about some solutions obtained by the classical approach of scaling the stress maximum 

associated only by assigning weights and dimensions, and then the results obtained with 

the new methodology. 


99 



The proposed methodology was applied to studying a ‘Tribot’ robot (fig. 1). The Tribot has 

three parts: two split driving parts and a manipulator with modular behaviour. 

Topological optimization includes aspects such as redrawing size and shape of component. 

By using the methodology of rapid prototyping (RP) the solutions were assessed quickly 

and particularly lightweight. Reliable modular structures were built. 

Keywords: lightweight design, biological structures, strength, SKO, Rapid prototyping. 

Corresponding Author: S. Massimo Oliveri 

Tel.: +39 095 7382404 

Fax.: +39 095 337994 

e-mail: moliveri@diim.unict.it 

Address: Viale A. Doria, 6 Catania. 

Preliminary Design of a New Bridge System 

for a Modern Mine Hunter Vessel 

D. Boddi (a), M. Vezzani (b) 

(a) Naval Academy, Dipartimento di Informatica - LIVORNO (ITALY) 

(b) Naval Academy, Dipartimento del Genio Navale - LIVORNO (ITALY) 

Abstract: 

The present work summarises some of the most relevant aspects of an activity for a 

preliminary design of a new bridge system for a modern Italian Navy mine hunter vessel. 

The authors have contributed to such activity as a naval consultant and a CAD consultant 

respectively. The solution proposed by the authors is an integrated bridge system, which is 

an original solution for Italian Navy. 

The first part of the work defines the optimum instrumentation for the implementation of 

operational tasks and analyses the correct positioning for each and every console within 

the integrated bridge. 

The second part of the work describes the design activity through the use of 2D and 3D 

CAD software, taking into consideration the functional, operative, dimensional and 

ergonomical aspects of the instrumentation. As a result of the activity, an operative 

methodology is proposed, aimed to reduce the design time. 

It is not possible to provide a complete design description as far as part of the information 

is confidential. 

Keywords: mine hunter, integrated bridge, 3D CAD 

Corresponding Author: Marco Vezzani 

Tel.: ++39586238296 

e-mail: marco_vezzani@marina.difesa.it 

Address: Accademia Navale, Viale Italia 72 - 57127 LIVORNO (ITALY). 


100 



Study of the impact of a bomb on the side of a vessel 

and validation by comparing the original sheet 

with numerical simulation 

G. García (a), A. Álvarez (a), C. Anido (b), B. Álvarez (b) 

(a) Departamento de Construcciones Navales, E.U. Politécnica, Universidad de La Coruña. 

(b) Departamento de Economía Financiera y Contabilidad, Universidad de La Coruña. 

Abstract: 

The present work shows the comparison between the results of simulating the impact of a 

bomb in the side of the destroyer “Marqués de la Ensenada” structure and the outcomes 

obtained by digitalizing the original sheet that suffered the crash. 

On the 2nd of October 1981 an explosive device was placed against the dock of the city of 

Santander very close to the destroyer, which was in the port collaborating on the 

surveillance of the borderland. The vessel was then towed to the Santander shipyards with 

the help of four tugs and moved into dry dock to be urgently repaired. However, the final 

repair took place later on at the National Company Bazan dockyards, in Ferrol. 

When the damaged elements were substituted, they were handed over to the Naval 

Museum of Ferrol for exhibition. This material was used to simulate the explosion by 

means of the finite element method and compare these results with the digital 

photograph of the real sheet. 

Keywords: Bomb, Vessel, Numerical simulation, Finite element method. 

Corresponding Author: Ana Álvarez García 

Tel.: 34981337400/Ext.3097 

Fax.: 34981337301 

e-mail: aalvarez@udc.es 

Address: Avda. 19 de febrero s/n, 15405 La Coruña (Spain). 


101 



Mathematical modelling and simulation 

of an adjustable-stiffness spring 

J. M. Chacón (a), A. González Rodríguez (b), A. Donoso (c), A. G. González Rodríguez (d) 

(a) ETSII, Institute of Applied Mathematics in Science and Engineering, 

Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. 

(b) ETSII, Department of Applied Mechanics, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. 

(c) ETSII, Department of Mathematics, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. 

(d) ETSII, Department of Electronic Engineering and Automation, Universidad de Jaén, Spain. 

Abstract: 

An adjustable-stiffness actuator composed of two antagonistic non-linear springs is 

proposed in this paper. The elastic device consists of two pairs of leaf springs working in 

pure bending under large displacement hypothesis. Owing to this geometric non-linearity, 

the global stiffness of the actuator can be adjusted by modifying the shape of the leaf 

springs. A mathematical model has been developed in order to predict the mechanical 

behaviour of our proposal. The non-linear differential equation derived from the model is 

solved, obtaining large stiffness variations. 

Keywords: Compliant-actuators, Adjustable-stiffness, Large displacements, Leaf spring. 

Corresponding Author: J.M. Chacón 

Tel.: +34 926 29 53 00 

Fax.:+34 926 29 53 61 

e-mail: jesusmiguel.chacon@uclm.es 

Address: Edificio Politécnico s/n 13171, Ciudad Real, Spain. 

Design of physical prototypes to analyze aerodynamic effects 

J. L. Santolaya (a), R. Miralbés (a), V. Navarro (b), J. A. García (b), E. Calvo (b) 

(a) Design and Manufacturing Engineering Department. University of Zaragoza (Spain) 

(b) Fluid Mechanics Department. University of Zaragoza (Spain) 

Abstract: 

The testing of physical prototypes is a critical step in the product design process since it 

allows detecting ignored faults and establishing actual manufacturing costs. By means of 

tests in experimental facilities, it is possible to obtain clarification on complex problems, to 

improve mechanical systems operation and to compare empirical results with theoretical 

models and numerical simulations data. 

This work was aimed at designing of two different physical prototypes for specific 

purposes: a device to achieve the efficient atomization of a bulk liquid and vortex 


102 



generators units to reduce drag in heavy trucks. In both cases, the involved aerodynamic 

phenomena will be comprehensively characterized in laboratory. 

Special emphasis was put in the development of prototypes which were able to allow us 

making a wide number of distinct alternatives with low building costs. Thus, modular 

designs based on the quick exchange between parts, were carried out. In addition, simple 

geometry components and basic mechanical systems were proposed. In the two cases, up 

to 400 different configurations of study were obtained. 

Keywords: Physical prototype, Modular design, Alternatives of study, Aerodynamic 

phenomena 

Corresponding Author: José Luis Santolaya 

Tel.:+34 976 761900 

Fax.: +34 976 762235 

e-mail: jlsanto@unizar.es 

Address: C/ María de Luna, 3 - (50018) Zaragoza - Spain. 

Design optimization based on eco-design 

and mechanical analysis 

I. Lopez (a), R. Miralbes (a) 

(a) Design and Manufacture Engineering Department. University of Zaragoza (Spain) 

Abstract: 

The work presented here attempts to show the advantages of relating design tools and 

methods that impact on improvement methodology and outcome of product design, in 

this case eco-design and the mechanical analysis are related in order to optimize the 

design to generate a lower environmental impact without loss of functional performance. 

The methodology proposes a market survey to select the objects to analyze, in which 

observe the environmental impact analysis with a specific tool so the ranges of optimal 

values in production, use and disposal of values and objectives and as the use of ecodesign 

strategies are set. At the same time, a mechanical study using reverse engineering, 

loads and stress analysis, by means of finite elements that just results in a number of 

conditions and values to be taken into account in future design. 

Once the research and analysis raises the design stage in which proposals are made, those 

are analyzed using the same tools, in terms of environmental impact and structural 

strength, to establish more robust design from a series of alternative proposals according 

to predetermined design criteria. 

This work aims to link the findings of both analysis so as to enable optimum results and 

compatible design specifications and thus show the current need to develop hybrid 

methods that relate to the different techniques and tools. 


103 



Keywords: Design methods, Eco-design, Mechanical analysis, Hybrid projects, Design 

specifications. 

Corresponding Author: Ramon Miralbes 

Tel.:+347976761888 

Fax.:+34/976762670 

E-mail: miralbes@unizar.es 

Address: Dept. Ing. Diseño. y Fabricación, Ed. Torres Quevedo, C/ María de Luna s/n, 50018 

Zaragoza (Spain). 

Development of a trade-off function 

for robust optimization problems in design engineering 

T. Quirante (a), P. Sebastian (a), Y. Ledoux (a) 

(a) Université de Bordeaux, I2M, UMR CNRS 5295, Esplanade des Arts et Métiers, FRANCE 

Abstract: 

In industrial design processes, engineers and designers always need to perform 

compromises between many different design objectives. In particular, trades-off between 

nominal performance and design sensitivity have received increasing interests in the past 

few years. Robust design optimization methods focus on such conflicting issues in design 

engineering. Specific functions dedicated to the RDO framework, expressing the 

admissible compromises expected between nominal performance and design sensitivity 

have not yet stimulated much developments. The main purpose of this research work 

aims to develop a trade-off function to select among a set of alternatives, solutions which 

achieve rational compromises between design objectives. The design optimization model, 

composed by a model of the system behavior and a knowledge-based model, is 

formulated through observation, interpretation and aggregation functions. Such a 

procedure enables first to model preferences, provides a quality indicator for design 

solutions and finally turns the initial multiobjective optimization problem into a monoobjective 

problem which is solved stochastically by genetic algorithm. As an illustration of 

the trade-off approach, the method is used to achieve robust solutions for a side-impact 

crashworthiness problem. 

Keywords: Robust design, Trade-off, Preference modeling, Multiobjective optimization, 

Genetic algorithm. 

Corresponding Author: Thomas Quirante 

Tel.: +33 (0) 556 845 414 

Fax.: +33 (0) 556 845 436 

e-mail: thomas.quirante@u-bordeaux1.fr 

Address: Université de Bordeaux, IMS, UMR CNRS 5295, Esplanade des Arts et Métiers, 33405 


104 



Talence Cedex, FRANCE. 

Design of a device for stability control system, 

to decouple loads, 

for an optimised maintenance in hostile environment 

R. Ambu (a), C. Falchi (a), A. Manuello Bertetto (a) 

(a) Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Cagliari, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Among the primary objectives in future space missions, the building of lunar bases has a 

growing attention. For this reason, beside the lunar rovers allocated to the exploration 

missions, lunar vehicles assigned to working missions have to be considered. 

In this paper the design of a particular device developed for the lifting mechanism of a 

worker rover, is reported. The main task of this rover is to clear areas of the lunar soil 

allocated to the building of lunar bases. 

Method: 

Parametric modelling and numerical simulations were used to obtain compact geometries 

of the components and assess the structural behaviour of the most significant under 

extreme operating conditions. 

Result: 

The components of the device, relative in particular to the transmission mechanism, were 

developed for an optimal operating of the vehicle as concerns the stability control and the 

correct operating of the linear actuator under load, keeping into account at the same time 

the peculiar characteristics of the hostile lunar environment. 


The optimally designed device, thanks to replaceable components, allows to recover an 

efficient system after long working periods. The introduction of the device in a prototype 

rover will allow to define the performance of the proposed arrangement. 

Keywords: design, worker rover, hostile environment 

Corresponding Author: Rita Ambu 

Tel.:+396755709 

Fax.:+396755717 

e-mail: ambu@iris.unica.it 

Address: Piazza d’Armi, 09123 Cagliari, Italy. 


105 



Design optimization: 

management of large solution spaces 

and optimization algorithm selection 

A. Collignan (a), J. Pailhes (b), P. Sebastian (a) 

(a) Université de Bordeaux, I2M departement IMC; Esplanade des Arts & Métiers, FRANCE 

(b) Arts et Métiers Paristech, I2M departement IMC; Esplanade des Arts & Métiers, FRANCE 

Abstract: 

Context: 

In aeronautical industry, iterations between design department and simulation 

department - named "trial-and-error process" - are time and money consuming. Design 

and modelling of a fastened junction is a design problem often encountered, with a high 

complexity level. 

Modelling: 

from a finite element model to simulate the stress in each fastener of the junction. Several 

criterion are calculated. Actually, the software cannot perform any optimization process. 

Design variables of this problem are numerous. 

Optimization: 

In order to solve the trial-and-error process and decrease the number of iterations, it is 

proposed to use a global optimization algorithm. Four stochastic algorithms inspired by 

nature are investigated: genetic algorithms, particle swarms, artificial immune systems 

and ant systems. Confronted to six benchmarks, an algorithm is selected and applied to 

the junction problem through three design scenarios, which illustrate the formalization of 

designer preferences. 

Keywords: Multi-criteria, Mechanical design, Optimization algorithms, Large design space, 

Riveted junction. 

Corresponding Author: Arnaud Collignan 

Tel.: +33 556 845 414 

Fax.: +33 556 845 436 

e-mail: arnaud.collignan@ensam.eu 

Address: Laboratoire TREFLE, Esplanade des Arts & Métiers, 33405 TALENCE Cedex, FRANCE. 


106 



A CAD toolbox for Composite Materials Modelling and Drawing 

A. Ceruti (a), D. Francia (a), A. Liverani (a), G. Caligiana (a) 

(a) Department DIEM, University of Bologna 

Abstract: 

The importance of composite materials in industrial applications in growing mainly due to 

a very advantageous strength/weight ratio and to the capability of modelling complex 

geometric shapes. Thus, the handling of composite materials within CAD systems requires 

a different approach with respect to classic metallic materials. As a matter of fact, only 

advanced and expensive CAD systems provide dedicated modules for composite materials 

modelling, drawing and manufacturing. This paper presents the development of an add-on 

toolbox for general purpose CAD systems, designed to help a CAD designer to operate 

with composite materials. The toolbox provides an integrated environment whose main 

capabilities are: laminate properties dynamic link with digital model, automatic 

computation of laminate orthotropic properties, automated generation of materials bill 

for suppliers, assisted 2D drawing. The add-on has been developed keeping into account 

the European standardization related to composite drawing. Results obtained confirm the 

usefulness of this simple add-on, even if the integration with more functions would 

increase the capabilities. This paper presents some preliminary results; in the following, 

this tools will be improved to handle variable thickness composites and complex shapes. 

Keywords: Computer Aided Design, Composite Materials, Modelling, Man Machine 

Interface, Drawing. 

Corresponding Author: Alessandro Ceruti 

Tel.:+39 051 2093452 

Fax.:+39 051 2093412 

e-mail: alessandro.ceruti@unibo.it 

Address: University of Bologna, Department of Mechanical, Nuclear, Aeronautical Engineering and 

Metallurgy, V.le del Risorgimento 2, Bologna. 

Improving Helicopter Flight Simulation with Rotor Vibrations 

A. Ceruti (a), A. Liverani (a), L. Recanatesi (a) 

(a) University of Bologna, DIEM Department 

Abstract: 

Helicopters are complicated flying machines, whose lift is obtained by a main rotor, made 

by a variable number of blades. The large amount of rotating mass (rotors, engine, 

gearboxes) is responsible of high level vibrations over the helicopter structure: their 

amplitude is highly coupled with manoeuvring, so that pilots can feel flight phases not 

only by noise and external view, but also by vibrations intensity. An experimental 

107 




campaign has been carried out to acquire vibration data over helicopters. The paper 

describes the implementation of a simulator which provides also the reproduction of 

vibration felt in flight by pilot. The attention is focused on the conceptual and preliminary 

design, CAD modelling, FEM analysis, manufacturing and testing of the device conceived 

to reproduce vibrations over the pilot’s seat. Only the first frequency of the rotor is 

reproduced since it is the most important excitations and it is variable, depending on the 

flight phase. The shaker has been built and installed on a simulator. The final result shows 

that such a simulator can improve the realism involving not only the senses of sight and 

hearing, but also providing a more “physical” feedback due to vibrations perception. 

Keywords: Simulation, Computer Aided Design, Design Methodology, Vibrations, Finite 

Element Analysis. 


Tel.:+39 051 2093452 

Fax.:+39 051 2093412 


Address: University of Bologna, Department of Mechanical, Nuclear, Aeronautical Engineering and 

Metallurgy. 

Optimization by Particle Swarm Algorithms 

of an UAV performed by Hot Wire Cutting Techniques 


A. Ceruti (a), G. Caligiana (a), F. Persiani (a) 

(a) University of Bologna, DIEM Department 

Abstract: 

This paper describes an original application of unconventional optimization techniques by 

Particle Swarm Algorithms. An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle performed by Hot Wire Cutting is 

designed for a typical civil mission defining geometry and aerodynamics with a Particle 

Swarm Algorithm. The tailless configuration of the vehicle requires an accurate design to 

gain the satisfaction of all the requirements and to obtain a low cost solution. Only an 

unconventional technique can be applied because of the high non linearity of the problem 

and the high number of parameters to be defined. A first preliminary series of tests have 

been carried out to define the best values for inertia and acceleration coefficients of the 

Particle Swarm algorithm; in the following the algorithm results have been compared with 

those obtained by other two techniques like Genetic Algorithms and Monte Carlo 

Simulations. The result of this study shows how the Rapid Prototyping techniques can be 

applied to the performing of small lots of UAV: the required optimal design is gained 

applying the Particle Swarm Algorithm. The conclusion of this work confirms the suitability 

of non conventional optimization methods to non linear problems: Genetic Algorithms 

and Particle Swarm optimization provide similar results in term of fitness maximization, 

while Monte Carlo algorithm presents a lower efficiency. The Particle Swarm and Monte 

108 



Carlo algorithms are simple to implement within a software code with respect to the 

Genetic Algorithms which are quite difficult to code. 

Keywords: Rapid Prototyping, Particle Swarm Algorithm, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, 

Conceptual Design, Optimization. 


Tel.: 051/2093452 – 0543/374448 

Fax.: 0543/374477 


Address: University of Bologna - DIEM Department, V.le del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna ; II 

Faculty of Engineering, Via Fontanelle 40, 47100 Forlì. 

Decision support system to design autonomous microsystems 

V. Dupé (a, b), R. Briand (a), X. Fischer (a, b), P. Sébastian (b) 

(a) ESTIA 

(b) I2M UMR CNRS 5295 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This article deals with modelling and design of embedded autonomous microsystems able 

to harvest energy from their close environment. Due to their numerous functionalities, 

progress in electronics and the development of wireless applications, microsystems are 

used in a wide range of applications. Moreover, they require a large autonomy to ensure 

reliability and avoid maintenance operations. We focus on energy harvesting to power 

them to replace the conventional energy source with an energy harvester. Different 

sources can be used but one difficulty is to select the most adapted to a specific 

application and choose the energy harvester architecture to get an efficient system. 

Method: 

A decision support to design autonomous microsystems working by harvesting energy is 

proposed. It aims to support designer’s decisions from qualitative representation to 

physical models. Our approach is based on the identification, analysis, modelling and 

minimization of antagonist flows and effects through a system-level model to estimate the 

energy that can be harvested. 

Result: 

The method is illustrated through a validation case dealing with the displacement and 

deformation measurement of a cantilever beam with an accelerometer. The aim is to 

choose the energy source and the architecture of the energy harvester to satisfy the 

requirements. 



109 



Through the application, this paper demonstrates the relevance of our tool in aiding the 

design of the energetic part of an autonomous embedded microsystem. We can also note 

that our top-down approach can be use as a decision tool. 

Keywords: autonomous microsystems, energy harvesting, decision support, 

multidisciplinary approach, system-level modelling. 

Corresponding Author: Valérie Dupé 

Tel.:+33559438476 

Fax.: +33559438405 

e-mail: v.dupe@estia.fr 

Address: Technopôle Izarbel, 64210 Bidart, France. 

3D CAD and multi-domain simulation integration 

for Energy Scavenger design 

S. Tornincasa (a), E. Bonisoli (a), F. Di Monaco (a) 

(a) Department of Production Systems and Business Economics, Politecnico di Torino, ITALY 

Abstract: 

This paper presents an example of integration between 3D CAD models and multi-domain 

simulation applied to the optimization of an energy scavenger device. A MATLAB® 

framework controls a block-oriented Simulink® model of the energy scavenger, drives the 

FEMM finite element magnetic simulation of the device and manages the updating of the 

SolidWorks® CAD models. All the model parameters are stored in a unique data file from 

which data for all simulations and models are extracted. This leads to a reduction in both 

the number of errors produced and the time required at the design stage. Moreover 

constructive drawings are automatically updated and are immediately suitable for 

tolerance and design constraints checks and also for the effective prototyping of the 

device. Constructed prototypes are suitable for experimental tests and model 

performance validations. 

Keywords: Virtual Prototyping, CAD-CAE integration, Multi-domain Simulation, Energy Harvester 

Corresponding Author: Stefano Tornincasa 

Tel.: +39 011 090 7274 

Fax.: +39 011 090 7299 

e-mail: stefano.tornincasa@polito.it 

Address: C.so Duca degli Abruzzi, 24 - 10129 Torino, ITALY. 


110 


ENGINEERING METHODS IN MEDICINE 


111 


Engineering Methods in Medicine 

An integrated methodology 

for functional simulation of dental prosthesis 

R. Meneghello (a), M. Turchetto (a), G. Savio (a), A. Cerardi (a), R. Raffaeli (b), L. Planchenstainer (a) 

(a) Università di Padova - DAUR - Laboratorio di Disegno e Metodi dell’Ingegneria Industriale 

(b) Università Politecnica delle Marche - Dipartimento di Meccanica - Design Tools and Methods Group 

Abstract: 

Studies and implementations of virtual and physical prototyping on dental prosthesis can 

be found in literature, together with experimental studies on forces generated during 

chewing due to occlusal geometry. 

In this work it is proposed an integrated methodology for the functional simulation of 

dental prosthesis. This methodology develops in three phases: virtual and physical 

prototyping, contact forces and areas analysis and functional optimization of teeth and 

arches geometry. 

A virtual environment for the modeling of the prosthesis (NM - Tooth) was developed: it 

includes a database of 3D CAD models of artificial teeth and allows to simulate the 

fabrication techniques used in dentistry. In particular, it is possible to create a full denture 

virtual model by a semi - automatic procedure, where a preliminary occlusal configuration 

is set up. By using rapid-prototyping techniques, a physical model of the prosthesis is 

manufactured which is utilized for the experimental analysis. 

The analysis phase includes the study of the occlusion forces in relation to the 

identification of contact areas. A multi - axial force measuring system allows the detection 

of forces acting on the physical model. Simultaneously with a reverse engineering 

procedure the relevant contact areas in the virtual model are related with the load 

configuration. 

According to the experimental output, it is possible to modify the preliminary geometry 

both of the arches and of the individual tooth. 

This integrated methodology is an original instrument to study the dental prosthesis and 

acquire information for its functional improvement. 

Keywords: Simulation, Prototyping, CAD 3D, Occlusion force, Dental prosthesis. 

Corresponding Author: Roberto Meneghello 

Tel.:+39 049 827 6736 

Fax.: +39 049 827 6738 

e-mail: roberto.meneghello@unipd.it 

Address: via Venezia 1, 35131 Padova Italy. 


112 



Design of a new tibial intramedullary nail 

T. Ingrassia (a), A. Mancuso (a) 

(a) Università degli Studi di Palermo, 


Abstract: 

Aim of this work is designing a new intramedullary nail able to reduce the drawbacks of 

the distal locking, ensuring the axial stability, so enabling a speedy recovery of the fracture 

and a time-reduced immobilization of the limb. 

During the first phases of the design process, the parametric CAD model has been carried 

out and, successively, several numerical analyses have been set up to verify the nail 

behaviour under the usual post-operation loading conditions. 

In particular, non linear FEM analyses have been performed to define the right nail 

positioning, the average and maximum values of stress and contact pressure, and the 

stability of the joining by means of the new nail. 

The obtained results have shown a not uniform contact pressure distribution at the nailtibia 

interface due to the irregularity of the inner surfaces of the tibia. 

Moreover, no longitudinal or rotational sliding has been observed during the numerical 

simulations, then demonstrating the effectiveness of the distal locking by the expansion of 

the flanges nail. 

The new designed nail, besides simplifying the distal locking procedure and reducing the 

operation time, it is able to assure a reliable distal fixation and ensuring the stability of the 

system. 

Keywords: Intramedullary nail, FEM analyses, Redesign. 

Corresponding Author: Antonio Mancuso 

Tel.: 0039 091 6657145 

Fax.: 0039 091 484334 

e-mail: antonio.mancuso@unipa.it 


A Novel Method of Removing Artifacts in Dental CT Images 

M. Martorelli (a) 

(a) University of Naples, Federico II, School of Engineering 

Abstract: 

The artifacts that appear on maxillofacial X-ray computed tomography (CT) images are 

mainly caused by the presence of metallic prosthetic appliances (such as amalgam or gold 

fillings). They cause problems in the three dimensional virtual reconstruction and in the 

eventual physical reproduction by Rapid Prototyping systems. 

113 




At present the classification of different artifact types, metallic presences or artifacts 

induced by them, is left to the experience and sensitivity of the operator. 

In this paper an innovative methodology to automatically remove the artifacts in CT data 

is presented. 

An expert system based on fuzzy logic was used to process the CT images and to clean 

them automatically leaving the decisional phase to the computer. 

Decisional networks were created, using the Hounsfield scale values of each CT image 

pixel. for the membership functions. 

Keywords: CT Images, Metallic Artifacts, Expert System, Fuzzy Logic. 

Corresponding Author: Massimo Martorelli 

Tel./Fax: +39 081 7682470 

e-mail: massimo.martorelli@unina.it 

Address: P. le Tecchio, 80, 80125, Naples - Italy. 

3D facial symmetry evaluation from high-density scanned data 

L. Di Angelo (a), P. Di Stefano (a), A. Spezzaneve (a) 

(a) D.I.M.E.G, Faculty of Engineering, L'Aquila 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This paper proposes a new method for the identification of the symmetry plane of the 

human face, starting from a 3D high – density scanned data. This plane is used to evaluate 

the local and mean asymmetries of the face. 

Method: 

The proposed method evaluates the symmetry plane taking into consideration the initial 

estimation of the symmetry plane performed by an iterative mirroring and registrationbased 

method. Once the mirroring of the original data is carried out with respect to the 

symmetry plane which has been previously estimated, the source point cloud and the 

mirrored data are registered by the ICP algorithm that minimises a new weighted 

function. The final symmetry plane obtained approximates in the least-squares sense the 

midpoints of the lines connecting homologous points randomly chosen. 

Result: 

This method is validated by analysing some specifically-designed test cases. The obtained 

results show that the method is insensitive to local asymmetries, whether they be near or 

far from the symmetry plane, and is also repeatable and slightly conditioned by the 

acquisition process. 


This method offers promising applications not just in the medical field but also in the face 

recognition field. Future work should address how to improve the performance of the 


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method in terms of timing costs and how to use the symmetry plane for face feature 

segmentation and for facial authentication and recognition. 

Keywords: rasterstereography, registration, mirroring, symmetry plane, asymmetry. 


Tel: 00390862434310 

e-mail: luca.diangelo @univaq.it 

Address: Via G. Gronchi 18, L’Aquila, Italy. 

Methods and tools dedicated to shoes customization 

for people with diabetes 

M. Germani (a), M. Mandolini (a), M. Mengoni (a), R. Raffaeli (a) , E. Montiel (b), M. Davia(b) 

(a) Università Politecnica delle Marche, Dipartimento di Meccanica 

(b) INESCOP, Instituto Tecnológico del Calzado y Conexas 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Study and development of innovative tools in order to support the design and 

manufacturing of customised shoes for people with diabetes. 

Method: 

The approach is based on the identification of main critical stages of footwear 

customisation when patient parameters have to be properly used; medical knowledge 

formalisation is translated in new software design tools that interest the footwear shape 

and the suitable materials. 

Result: 

Rapid customisation of preventive shoes for people with diabetes 


“Diabetic foot” in one the main effects of diabetes; it is important to develop shoes able to 

prevent this kind of complication. This paper reports an approach and related design tools 

that allow customising shoes on the basis of patient features. Rapid manufacturing 

technologies have to be still analysed in order to complete the whole process. 

Keywords: Footwear, CAD, Biomechanics, Diabetes 

Corresponding Author: Michele Germani 

Tel.: +39-71-2204969 

Fax.:+39-71-2204801 

e-mail: m.germani@univpm.it 

Address: Via Brecce Bianche, 12, Dipartimento di Meccanica, 60131 Ancona. 


115 



Structural analysis 

of a posterior stability total knee joint replacement 

T. Ingrassia (a), L. Nalbone (b), V. Nigrelli (a), D. Tumino (c), V. Ricotta (a) 

(a) Università degli Studi di Palermo, 


(b) Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Policlinico Paolo Giaccone di Palermo, 

Ambulatorio di Ortopedia e Traumatologia 

(c) Università degli Studi di Enna Kore – Facoltà di Ingegneria ed Architettura 

Abstract: 

Aim of this work is to compare two different total knee prostheses that differ in the shape 

of the Polyethylene (PE) insert, trying to optimize the shape of the best one, in order to 

reduce the stress peaks. 

The study procedure has been divided into the following steps. First step has been the 

three-dimensional shape acquisition of the two prostheses by means of a COMET5 3D 

scanner. The morphology of two prototypes of the prostheses has been acquired by 

elaborating multiple Moirè fringe pattern projected on their surfaces. Second step 

consisted of the manipulation of these data in a CAD module, that is the interpolation of 

raw data into parametric surfaces, reducing singularities due to the typical scattering of 

the acquiring system. Third step has been the setting up of FEM simulations to evaluate 

the prostheses behaviour under typical loading conditions. The CAD model of the 

prostheses has been meshed into solid finite elements. 

Different flexion angles configurations have been analysed, the load being applied along 

the femoral axis. FEM analyses have returned stress fields in the PE insert and, in 

particular, in the stabilizing cam which function is to avoid dislocation. 

Last step has been the integrated use of CAD-FEM to modify the shape of the stabilizing 

cam of the best prosthesis, in order to reduce the stress peaks in the original prosthesis 

without compromising the kinematics of the joint. Good results have been obtained both 

in terms of stress and contact pressure peaks reduction. 

Keywords: Total knee replacement, FEM simulation, Contact analysis. 

Corresponding Author: Davide Tumino 

Tel: (+39) 0935536491 

Fax.: (+39) 091484334 

e-mail: davide.tumino@unikore.it 

Address: Facoltà di Ingegneria e Architettura, Cittadella Universitaria, 94100, Enna. 


116 



Studying the influence of thread features 

in osseo-integrated implants 

P. Franciosa(a), M. Martorelli(b) 

(a) University of Molise, School of Engineering 

(b) University of Naples, Federico II, School of Engineering 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The present paper investigates the influence of implant design factors in terms of bone 

integrity and implant stability. 

Method: 

First of all, a 3D parametric CAD model was developed. Then, by defining domain settings 

and boundary conditions, a 3D FE model was created, accordingly. In order to simulate as 

well as possible the physical interaction at bone-implant interface, identity pairs were 

introduced. After generating different design scenarios with a DOE approach, the most 

significant design factors were obtained. 

Result: 

Finding of this research showed that the geometry of the screw-thread highly influences 

the implant stability. More specifically, thread-width and -tick assume a crucial role to 

reduce bone induced stresses and bone damage. 


Starting from these preliminary results, future improvements will focus on investigating 

also two-factor and higher interactions to better understand the implant loading 

mechanism. 

Keywords: Thread parameterisation, Osseo-integration, FE modelling, DOE design, Bonestress 

distribution 

Corresponding Author: Massimo Martorelli 

Tel.: +39 081 7682470 

Fax.: +39 081 7682470 

e-mail: massimo.martorelli@unina.it 

Address: P. le Tecchio, 80, 80125, Naples - Italy 


117 



Analysis and design of a thrombectomy device 

by using simulation techniques 

G. Romero (a), M. L. Martinez (a), J. Felez (a), G. Pearce (b), G. Romero (a), M. L. Martinez (a), J. Felez 

(a), G. Pearce (b), N. D. Perkinson (c) 

(a) ETS Industrial Engineering, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid. Spain 

(b) Wolverhampton University. United Kingdom. 

(c) Whatangamata, Waikato. New Zealand. 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

In this work, we present the analysis, design and optimization of one experimental device 

recently developed in the UK, called the 'GP' Thrombus Aspiration Device (GPTAD). This 

device has been designed to remove blood clots without the need to make contact with 

the clot itself thereby potentially reducing the risk of problems such as downstream 

embolisation. 

Method: 

To obtain the minimum pressure necessary to extract the clot and to optimize the device, 

we have simulated the performance of the GPTAD analysing the resistances, compliances 

and inertances effects. We model a range of diameters for the GPTAD considering 

different forces of adhesion of the blood clot to the artery wall, and different lengths of 

blood clot. In each case we determine the optimum pressure required to extract the blood 

clot from the artery using the GPTAD, which is attached at its proximal end to a suction 

pump. 

Result: 

We then compare the results of our mathematical modelling to measurements made in 

laboratory using plastic tube models of arteries of comparable diameter. We use abattoir 

porcine blood clots that are extracted using the GPTAD. The suction pressures required for 

such clot extraction in the plastic tube models compare favourably with those predicted 

by the mathematical modelling. 


We conclude therefore that the mathematical modelling is a useful technique in 

predicting the performance of the GPTAD and may potentially be used in optimising the 

design of the device. 

Keywords: Biomedical engineering, Thrombectomy Device, Stroke, Simulation techniques. 

Corresponding Author: Gregorio Romero 

Tel.: +34 91 336 3115 

Fax.: +34 91 336 3212 

e-mail: gregorio.romero@upm.es 

Address: C\ Jose Gutierrez Abascal Nº 2. 28006. Madrid. Spain. 


118 



Innovative design of customized surgical devices 

for mandibular rehabilitation 

M. Fantini (a), F. De Crescenzio (a), L. Ciocca (b) 


(b) Department of Oral Science, University of Bologna 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Design and manufacturing of a customized surgical device composed by a cutting guide 

and a bone plate to guide osteotomies according to virtual pre-operative planning and 

support the following mandibular reconstruction. 

Method: 

Pre-operative computed tomography (CT) scan data of the pilot study (mandible affected 

by ameloblastoma) are elaborated to produce a virtual surgical plan including osteotomy 

sites, entity of bone resection and therefore reconstruction. STL files are produced for a 

cutting guide and a bone plate. The cutting guide and the bone plate of the device are 

finally constructed by Direct Metal Laser Sintering. 

Result: 

An innovative customized surgical device (cutting guide + bone plate) is finally developed 

to assist the two steps mandibular rehabilitation (resection and reconstruction). The 

surgical device is ready to use for surgery and do not need any further manual operations 

intraoperatively. 


This pilot study using CAD-CAM customized cutting guides and reconstructive bone plates 

for mandibular rehabilitation may represent an innovative viable way to better reproduce 

the patient’s anatomical contour of the mandible. 

Keywords: Computed Tomography, 3D Reconstruction, Computer Aided Design, Rapid 

Prototyping, Direct Metal Laser Sintering. 

Corresponding Author: Massimiliano Fantini 

Tel.: +39 0543 374437 

Fax.: +39 0543 374444 

e-mail: massimiliano.fantini@unibo.it 

Address: Università di Bologna, Seconda Facoltà di Ingegneria, via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì (FC). 


119 



Analysis of TMJ replacement using a finite element model 

M. Mesnard (a), A. Ramos (b), Y. Nyashin (c), M. Aoun (a), J. A. Simoes (b), V. A. Lokhov (c) 

(a) Université de Bordeaux, Institut de Mécanique et d’Ingénierie, CNRS UMR 5295, Bordeaux, Fr. 

(b) University of Aveiro, Departamento de Engenharia Mecanica, Aveiro, Po. 

(c) Technical University of Perm, Department of Theoretical Mechanics, Perm, Ru. 

Abstract: 

Purpose 

Prosthetic materials and bone present quite different mechanical properties. 

Consequently, the condyle reconstruction with metallic materials modifies the 

physiological behaviour of the mandible. 

Method 

A validated finite element model (FEM) was used to evaluate the natural mandible strains 

and the condyle displacements. Modifications of strains and displacements were then 

assessed for two different temporomandibular joint implants. 

Result 

FEM made it possible to verify the worst loading configuration for the mandibular condyle. 

Replacing the natural condyle by one of the two implants, the results also demonstrated 

the importance of the implant geometry concerning the mandible behavior. The implant 

geometry and stiffness influence mainly the strain distribution. 

Discussion & Conclusion 

The different forces applied to the mandible by the elevator muscles, the teeth and the 

joint loads, point out that the FEM constitutes a relevant tool to optimize implant 

geometry or to choose a more suitable distribution of the surgical screws. 

Keywords: Temporomandibular Joint, Prosthesis, Finite element analysis, Strain pattern, 

Condyle displacements 

Corresponding Author: Mesnard Michel 

Tel.: ++ 33 6 07 68 80 92 

Fax.: ++ 33 5 40 00 69 64 

michel.mesnard@u-bordeaux1.fr 

Address: I2M, CNRS UMR 5295 (Bt.A4), 351 cours de la Libération, 33405 Talence cedex, Fr. 

A CA system for RGP contact lens design 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

L. D’Angelo (a), M. Rizzi (a) 

(a) University of Ferrara, Engineering Dept. (ENDIF), Italy 


120 



Development of procedures aimed at assisting lens designer when RGP lenses are to be 

prescribed to a patient. 

Method: 

Procedures have been partly developed and partly adapted, (i) to choose the most 

suitable lens shape category for a specific visual defect, and (ii) for determining lens 

geometrical parameters. In some cases lens designer is asked to choose among two 

alternatives. 

Result: 

The program covers all the more widespread lens categories and is ready for testing by the 

potential users. 


This work originates from the objective of reducing the number of trials before the 

definitive lens is produced. The initial idea to develop a dedicated CAD/CAM system is at 

the moment in standby, as lens manufacturers distrust optician solutions. 

Keywords: DSS, contact lens design, RGP contact lenses 

Corresponding Author: Luciano D’Angelo 

Tel.: +39 0532 974885 

Fax.: +39 0532 974870 

e-mail: dal@unife.it 

Address: via Saragat 1 Ferrara. 

Shape modeling and analysis of a human eye based 

on individual experimental data 

S. Giovanzana (a), G. Savio (a), R. Meneghello (a), G. Concheri (a) 

(a) DAUR – Laboratory of Design Tools and Methods in Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Italy 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The aim of this work is to develop a virtual environment for modeling and analysis an 

individual virtual eye which is able to integrate the modern imaging techniques as input 

data. 

Method: 

The virtual environment is developed in a 3D CAD by means of specific plug-ins due to the 

ability of this software to manage freeform surfaces and to the simplicity in the scripts 

implementation. 

Result: 

Spot of confusion analysis has been performed on two virtual eyes, with data derived from 

literature and by topography measurements. 



121 



Experimental measurements and literature data provide expected results in the spot of 

confusion analysis. 

Keywords: Geometric modeling, Ray tracing, Spot of confusion, Virtual eye, Topography. 

Corresponding Author: Stefano Giovanzana 

Tel.: +39 049 8276734 

Fax.: +39 049 8276739 

e-mail: lol_740@hotmail.com 

Address: Via Venezia, 1 - 35131 Padova. 


122 


REPRESENTATION TECHNIQUES 


123 


Representation Techniques 

Main axonometric system related views as tilt 

of the coordinate planes 

L. Gimena (a), P. Gonzaga (a), F. N. Gimena (a) 

(a) Department of Projects Engineering. Public University of Navarra 

Abstract: 

In this communication we start both from a trirectangular trihedral defined by the three 

coordinate planes and a fourth plane, called the chart or projection, which contains the 

vertex of the trihedral above. Later we define the main related views or trihedral views as 

those produced by the tilt of the three coordinate planes to the outside of their trihedral 

on the chart plane. For each projection plane there are some unique main related views, 

regardless of the projection direction. In turn, from the trihedral views we can obtain the 

axonometric perspective from which they come. These properties can simplify some 

graphic constructions of the axonometric system, for example, determine the projections 

of the axes from the main related views or determine the axonometric scales from the 

axes. It is considered that this new definition of trihedral views allows a simplification as to 

the understanding of the systems of representation and is intended to be suitable for 

teaching purposes. 

Keywords: Axonometric, Related views, Coordinate planes 

Corresponding Author: Faustino N. Gimena 

Tel.: +34 948 169 225 

e-mail: faustino@unavarra.es 

Address: Campus de Arrosadía, s/n. 31006 Pamplona. Spain. 

Parameter Combinatorial Diagram. 

Application to the study and analysis 

of Hydrological Simulation Models. 

M. Goñi (a), J. Javier López (a), F. N. Gimena (a) 

(a) Department of Projects Engineering. Public University of Navarre. 

Abstract: 

In this paper we define Parameter Combinatorial Diagram as the joint graphical 

representation of all box plots related to the adjustment between real and simulated data, 

by setting and / or changing the parameters of the simulation model. To do this, first we 

start with a box plot representing the values of an objective adjustment function, 

achieving these results when varying all the parameters of the simulation model. Then we 


124 



draw the box plot when setting all the parameters of the model, for example using the 

median or average. Later we get all the box plots when carrying out simulations combining 

fixed or variable values of the model parameters. Finally all box plots obtained are 

represented neatly in a single graph. 

Besides being able to represent the box plots associated with an objective function it is 

possible to represent the diagrams associated with the variation of each parameter. It is 

intended that the new Parameter Combinatorial Diagram is used to examine and analyze 

simulation models useful in practice. This paper presents combinatorial diagrams of 

different examples of application as in the case of hydrological models of one, two, three, 

and five parameters. 

Keywords: Combinatorial Diagram, Simulation Model, Graphical representation, Box plot 


Tel.: +34 948 169 225 



Heaven in the stone 

A. Pagliano (a) 

(a) University of Naples "Federico II", Dipartimento di Configurazione e attuazione dell’architettura 

Abstract: 

For centuries crystallized in the adamantine drawings preserved in the National Library of 

France, the perfect sphere of the Cenotaph, designed by Louis E. Boullèe in honor of Isaac 

Newton in about 1780, and the Temple of the Earth of Jean-Jacques Lequeu are cited by 

historians and critics of architecture as the utopian dream of bending the stone and the 

force of gravity towards the pure form of a complete sphere. 

The historical formal equivalence between the architectural dome vault and the sky, 

assume in our case a deeper meaning. From the words of Boullèe, it is crystal clear the 

intention of celebrating the greatness of Newton, subtracting his burial from the darkness 

by placing it in the largest ever builted sky, a majestic stone dome, reversing the natural 

order of day and night by creating with daylight, in the interior space, the image of the 

constellations seen in the starry skies. 

First in the history of planetary science, Lequeu and Boullèe’s stone architecture carried 

out the plan by drilling the outer surface of the dome to let the sunlight in, directly 

piercing the darkness and simulating in the inside space the intense stellar glow. The 

geometric study conducted on the holes in both architectures, made along the stone 

surface of the spheres, reveals a studied convergence of solar rays, in the Cenotaph, 

towards the eye of the privileged observer, the one able to stand on the slender platform 

above Newton’s tomb, thereby creating the sensation of a Ganzfeld , which sets Newton’s 

Cenotaph in the field of art installations rather than scientific ones. 


125 



The Lequeu’s Temple instead is designed with a perfect convergence of those rays 

towards the centre of the sphere, as the most part of modern planetarian, but it is also 

more visual than scientific in character. 3D virtual models, and simple conical projections, 

have allowed us to draw the star maps referred to Boullèe and Lequeu’s architectures 

which, however, show deep differences compared with the contemporary ones. 

Keywords: Planetarian, Boullèe, Cenotaph, Lequeu, star map 

Corresponding Author: Alessandra Pagliano 

Tel.: 0812538430 

Fax.: 0812538406 

e-mail: pagliano@unina.it 

Address: Via Tarsia 31, Napoli. 

The CGI production in San Francesco’s church in Padova 

I. Friso (a) 

(a) University of Study of Padova,Faculty of Engineering, 

DAUR- Architectural, Urbanistic and Survey Department 

Abstract: 

The digital simulation process has actively joined the representation phase of projects, 

becoming an integral and essential part for the complete understanding of an 

architectural object. 

It is interesting to notice how the CGI – Computer Generated Imagery –, which is the 

process of producing images with the help of specialized software, does not deviate much 

from the production stages involved in the film making industry. This argument is 

supported by the fact that currently the major international film productions share much 

information with the digital world since generated almost entirely in virtual space and 

whose vision on screen is permitted only through the use of appropriate eyewear, which 

restore the sharpness of the objects that appear to float in real space. 

Moreover, to support this thesis, it is proposed in this article that the work carried out and 

developed on the Church of San Francesco of Padua, whose purpose is the study of the 

surfaces that form the vaulting system. 

Keywords: preproduction, production, postproduction, model,Simulation 

Corresponding Author: Isabella Friso 

Tel.: +393479768750 

e-mail: Isabella.friso@unipd.it 

Address: Via Venezia, 1 - 35131 Padova. 


126 


TEACHING PRODUCT DESIGN AND DRAWING HISTORY 


127 


Teaching Product Design and Drawing History 

“Let's take a look to the project” 

A. Giordano (a), L. Bifulco (a), F. Chiementin (a) 

(a) Dip. di Architettura, Urbanistica e Rilevamento - University of Padova 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The purpose of the research is the evaluation of new tools for the representation of the 

architectural project and the impact they have for teaching students (architects and 

engineers). 

Method, Result, Discussion & Conclusion: 

Through the comparison of operational methods of architecture firms and the latest 

developments, in the market, for the architecture, we can understand and underline the 

importance of geometry not only as way to communicate the mere shape of a buildinga, 

but also as an opportunity to comprehend and to communicate each architecture that, as 

such, is made of space. So the understanding of space becomes fundamental and 

foundational training to the project of architecture, which certainly includes other factors, 

but that makes it possible through its own space component. 

Keywords: Geometry, Representation, Photomontage, Space 

Corresponding Author: Andrea Giordano 

Tel.: +39 3389187496, Fax.: +39 0498276738 

e-mail: andrea.giordano@unipd.it 

Address: Daur via venezia 1, Padova. 

Parametric Cad in the teaching of drawing 

for Mechanical Engineer 

G. Defranco (a), L. Fuertes (a), S. Gavino (a), L. Lopresti (a), A. Ristevich (a) 

(a) Cátedra de Gráfica para Ingeniería y Sistemas de Representación “C”, Facultad de Ingeniería, UID GIGA 

Universidad Nacional de La Plata - Argentina 

Abstract: 

For more than two decades, Computer Aided Design (CAD) has been increasingly taking 

part in the teaching of drawing for mechanical engineers and similar areas. The number of 

papers and communications presented by teachers of this area has increased in the last 

three decades, in different specialized and general events such as engineering, and the 

teaching of engineering congresses. 1 From the teaching point of view, the innovation has 

been centered in the increasingly use of the most spread CAD software in the world. 2 The 

use of it has tended to replace in a complete or parcial way the precision drawings, that 


128 



were traditionaly made on boards by hand. In recent times a new inflection appears on 

the stage when the programs with an analytical parametric design philosophy and 

characteristics were introduced. The emergence of this kind of software impacts again on 

the traditional teaching of engineering drawing, putting in the hands of students and from 

the early stages of their studies a tool that necessarily leads them to get involved in 

aspects of design, even in the case when the expected goal is just to get a drawing. At the 

same time, the representations under international drawing standards became so simple 

as we could never have imagined before. This paper tells how the decisions were made to 

move towards a new paradigm of computer aided representation and how it was 

integrated to the concepts already present in the syllabus of the subject by means of tasks 

that imply the analysis of a mechanical system, its representation, the proposal of 

modifications on it, and the development of a technical report. 

Keywords: Teaching of engineering, Drawing, Parametric CAD, 3D model, Monge 

Corresponding Author: Gabriel Defranco 

Tel.: +542214258911 int. 173 

e-mail: ghdefran@ing.unlp.edu.ar 

Address: Av. 1 y 47 – La Plata 1900 Argentina. 

From Research to Sustainable Innovation 

and Entrepreneurship: Which Competences? 

From Research to Sustainable Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Which Competences? 

A. Riel (a), S. Tichkiewitch (a) 

(a) EMIRAcle and Grenoble Institute of Technology 

Abstract: 

The research and development of modern products and systems is coined by the 

increasingly important requirement to create sustainable innovation. Innovation is 

intimately linked with entrepreneurship. Research, Innovation and Entrepreneur¬ship are 

considered the keys to a wealthy and sustainable economy. The best way to turn research 

into innovations is to consider key innovation factors from the earliest phases of research 

all along the way to products and services. Existing entrepreneurship study and training 

programs, however, do not take into account these early phases, but rather focus on the 

process of creating a new enterprise. This paper presents key results of ResEUr, a 

European Project that has conceived and implemented a unique e-Learning enabled 

training and EU-wide certification program to sensitize young researchers for innovation 

and entrepreneurship in our modern environment. 

Keywords: Innovation, Innovation Transfer, Entrepreneurship, Lifelong Learning 

Corresponding Author: Andreas Riel 


129 



Tel.:+33 4 76825156 

e-mail: andreas.riel@grenoble-inp.fr 

Address: 46, av. Félix Viallet. 

Safety signage made easy 

using parametric CAD-based software 

C. García Hernández (a), P. Ubieto Artur (a), 

A. Finneran (b), A. G. F. Gibb (b), P. Bust (b), J. C. Rubio Romero (c) 

(a) Idergo (I3A) - Department of Design and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Spain 

(b) Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, United Kingdom 

(c) Cátedra de Prevención y Responsabilidad Social Corporativa, University of Málaga, Spain 

Abstract: 

As a result of current legislation safety signs are increasingly common in public places. The 

purpose of safety signs is to guide people to a final location in a limited amount of time. 

But is sign location always effective? Do users have an adequate viewing range or 

cognitive ability to interpret the information on signs? Is the number of safety signs 

adequate for their areas of influence? Is there an excessive amount or is there just 

enough? Are these questions always answered? 

The authors noted that the choice of safety sign location is often not an easy one for 

professionals such as architects and engineers. It was felt that a graphical tool that could 

be easily integrated with AutoCAD, a tool commonly used by design professionals could be 

helpful. 

As a starting point to the research and development process the authors analysed the 

basic aspects of safety signalling such as sign sizes and perception distances. The main 

purpose of the tool is to aid the placement of graphical symbols on architectural plans. 

However, the tool also allows for analysis of their areas of influence and the adaption of 

those areas to different places in the building. Orientation of signs is also important. The 

tool takes pathways into account which reduces errors in sign orientation, especially 

where arrows are included. 

This paper describes tool development with particular focus on development stages and 

difficulties. 

Keywords: CAD, Safety, Sign, Warning, SignCirCAD. 

Corresponding Author: César García-Hernández 

Tel.: (+34) 976761000 

Fax.: (+34) 976762620 

e-mail: garcia-hernandez.cesar@unizar.es 

Address: Idergo (I3A) - Department of Design and Manufacturing Engineering, University of 

Zaragoza, María de Luna 3, 50018 Zaragoza (Spain). 


130 



Engineering designer curricula and creativity development 

F. Rosa (a), E. Rovida (a), R. Viganò (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Meccanica - Politecnico di Milano (Italy) 

Abstract: 

Product eco-sustainability and cheapness are two of the main strategies adopted in the 

contemporary market to exit from the current economical crisis, as testified by the 

adoption of several ideas of the green-economy. The design of product according to these 

new requisites will entail new challenges for engineers: their creativity will gain more and 

more importance to find out new design “starting points” and to conceive new industrial 

products. These considerations are the basis of the proposed curricula modifications. 

Since we believe that at least an embryo of creativity could be found in everyone, the 

main goal of our curricula proposal is to start the growth of this embryo, showing to the 

students how to study also old problems from different points of view. 

The described proposal, conceived to achieve this goal, comprises the upgrading of the 

curricula, by including some topics concerning technical history and nature observation as 

sources of innovative technical solutions. 

Keywords: Creativity, Methodic design, Design for X (DfX), TRIZ, Technical history. 

Corresponding Author: Francesco Rosa 

Tel.: +39 02 2399 8275 

Fax.: +39 02 2399 8282 

e-mail: francesco.rosa@polimi.it 

Address: via La Masa, 34 I-20156, Milano – ITALY. 

Graphical formulary of statically determinate 

and indeterminate beams 

P. Gonzaga (a), L. Gimena (a), M. Crespo (a), F. N. Gimena (a) 

(a) Department of Projects Engineering. Public University of Navarra 

Abstract: 

From the intrinsic graphic resolution shown by the authors in the IXth International 

Congress of Graphic Engineering in Málaga in 1998, in this communication are made 

graphical chips for calculating beams with different types of support, whether they are 

statically determinate or indeterminate. It is shown the analogy that exists between the 

graphical approach, analytical and numerical. The procedure developed to make the 

graphical form can be extended beyond the field of structural analysis to other fields of 

technical application. It is intended that the presented graphical procedure serve to 

examine and analyze structural problems and that their use is appropriate for education. 


131 



Keywords: Graphic formulary, Beams, Statically determinate or indeterminate, Education, 

teaching 


Tel.: +34 948 169 225 



Leonardo’s Civil Bridges 

J. Alonso Trigueros (a), A. L. Romera Zarza (a), G. Fernández San Elías (a) 

(a) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Departamento de Ingeniería Civil: Infraestructura del Transporte. 

(b) Universidad de León. Departamento de Expresión Gráfica. 

Abstract: 

Within both aesthetic and history fields, civil engineering occupies a privileged place 

among arts whose manifestations are based on drawing. In this work, Leonardo’s 

creativity concerned with civil bridges proyects, have been studied. Leonardo designed 

ten bridges: eight of them intended for military porposes and only two were purely 

planned for civil functionaly - “Ponte sul corno d’oro”, infolio 66, manuscript L; and “Ponte 

a due piani”, represented in the Manuscript B at the Institute of France, infolio 23. There 

can be no doubt about Leonardo’s intentions when he started on designing these two 

bridges: his genious for creativy focused on providing both singulary and functionaly to 

the structures: they should be admired and utilized at the same time, a monument for civil 

society to be used.The work presented here attemps to make an scientist-historical trip 

along these Leonardo’s bridges, highlighting their technical, geometrical and aesthetic 

characteristics, as well as emphasizing Leonardo’s human, scientist and artistic nature. 

Keywords: Civi Engineering, Bridges, History of Engineering, Aesthetic of Engineering 

Corresponding Author: Jesús Alonso Trigueros 

Tel.:913367737 

Fax.:913367744 

e-mail: chus.alonso@upm.es 

Address: E.U.I.T. de Obras Públicas (Universidad Politécnica de Madrid). C/ Alfonso XII, 3 y 5. 28014 

Madrid. 


132 



Improving a CAD tool to simplify the design process 

of electrical schematics oriented to industrial-machine control 

P. Ubieto Artur (a), C. García Hernández (a), A. Fernández Sora (b) 

(a) Idergo (I3A), Department of Design and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Zaragoza, 

Zaragoza, Spain 

(b) Department of Design and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain 

Abstract: 

Electrical circuits are graphically described most of the times and the use of some kind of 

computer-aided design (CAD) to do it is more than usual. Electrical engineers can be highly 

helped in this process with a library of symbols to represent the different components of a 

circuit and, wouldn’t be interesting if they could simulate the circuits that they had 

graphically represented? We thought so. 

For the previous reasons, a tool with just a good library of electrical symbols would be 

useful but, if it made possible to test the circuits it could have a great value, both for 

professional and educational purposes. This tool is really helpful in the learning process of 

our students in Technical Office. In this subject, the Electrical Engineering Degree students 

must work on an electrical project which always includes the design of some kind of 

circuit. The tool makes possible to simulate those circuits within the CAD software, so it is 

easy, fast and safe to try different designs by changing the graphical symbols and/or their 

connections. 

Those features make the tool interesting in an educational environment, but not only. 

Professional engineers can also find this tool interesting because it can be used in the 

design process and as a tool for graphical representation. The improvements in the tool 

included, e.g., the wire simulation within the electrical box, making the circuit safer and 

cheaper. 

Keywords: Electrical diagrams, Simulator, CAD, Software. 

Corresponding Author: Pedro Ubieto Artur 

Tel.: (+34) 976761000 

Fax.: (+34) 976762620 

pubieto@unizar.es 

Idergo (I3A) - Department of Design and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Zaragoza, María 

de Luna 3, 50018 Zaragoza (Spain). 


133 



CAD, BIM, GIS and other tricks of the computer science 

in the education of the Building Engineer 

G. N. Massai (a), M. M. Bocconcino (a) 

(a) Politecnico di Torino – I Facoltà di Ingegneria 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The paper aims to develop some thoughts on the upgrade implemented in the disciplines 

of drawing from the latest forms of digital representation, commenting on the 

experiences under way in some university courses included in the learning curriculum 

provided to engineering students with regard to the course of study in Ingegneria Edile 

(Building Engineering, also known as Architectural or Construction Engineering) at the 

Politecnico di Torino. It’s a matter of reasoning on what and how to suggest knowledge 

and practises in the experience of teaching that result as an improvement of skills and 

abilities appropriate for future commitments required by the job world. 

Method: 

Methodological reasons, subject contents and experiences positively carried out during 

the activities of the course of Representation Techniques and Data Management (in the 

post graduate “Laurea Magistrale”) are treated, focusing on all the resources needed to 

conduct profitable operations training and first clarifying the specific skills and experience 

required for the teaching staff, essential qualities to ensure good results: all the activities 

organized to achieve the training objectives are based on the belief that early training is 

needed to trigger virtuous review processes for engineering practice and that 

opportunities to practice through simulations in the academic curriculum for future 

engineers can produce effects of greater permanence and enable an enhancement of 

learning outcomes. 

Result: 

The analysis, which is addressed primarily to illustrate the result of some of the outcomes 

of exercise activities leaded by students, brings attention to a solicitation that seems to be 

constraining and that concerns the system of relations required between operators of the 

design and construction process, which are requested to enter into shared aims while 

operating in the specificity of the various technical fields; in this sense, the tricks of the 

CAD, which is at the service of a geometric knowledge, measured and fulfilled by its 

attributes, the attention demanded by BIM, which builds a widespread and open network 

of relationship, the cunnings of the GIS, which has to gather dynamic information and 

alternative choices, appear to address areas of operational testing following a single 

purpose directed towards a better characterization of the process of conceptual 

development and a more advantageous control of the working method. 


So, with the design and over the usual representations, we speak of computer tricks to say 

that to be understood as the necessary infrastructure to solicit and investigate the reasons 

of doing and how to solve the complexity of operating on the field, upon which students 

must impractical themselves to identify qualities and limits, whether they are exploring 

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the reasons of the survey or the reasons bound with the design; certainly a renewal for 

the most usual ways of designing useful to produce different levels of knowledge and a 

new shared place for the exchange and discussion of the hypotheses, with what results? 

Keywords: Teaching experience, Representation techniques, Data management, Building 

engineering 

Corresponding Author: Giuseppa Novello Massai 

Tel.: 011 564 5306 

Fax.: 011 564 5399 

e-mail: pina.novello@polito.it 

Address: Politecnico di Torino – Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Sistemi Edilizi e Territoriali, corso 

Duca degli Abruzzi, 24 - 10129 TORINO. 

Teaching Methods for Concept Design and Prototyping 

F. De Crescenzio (a), M. Fantini (a), F. Lucchi (a) 


Abstract: 

In a product development process, the definition of an adequate design methodology 

allows to reduce the Time to Market (TTM) and to create new products meeting user’s 

requirements. The design of industrial products starts from the Mission Statement, which 

gives a brief description of the product and its goals, underling target market and 

stakeholders, assumptions and constrains that guide product development. Hence, in the 

early steps of the development process, alternative concepts of new products are 

generated, evaluated and then selected for further development and testing. In this 

phase, the first activities consist in identifying customer needs and establishing target 

specifications. Following actions regard concepts generation and selection. In this context, 

new technologies, such as knowledge based engineering and rapid prototyping have a 

significant impact on the reduction of the time and costs needed to verify the technical 

and functional aspects of the project. This paper reports the teaching experience carried 

out in the course of “Project Methodologies for Industrial Engineering” of the MSc in 

Mechanical Engineering at the Second Faculty of Engineering at the University of Bologna. 

The aim of this course is to supply students with design methodologies and all the related 

activities that are at the basis of concept development and prototyping. Therefore, 

students are directly involved, through a design experience, in the creation of a new 

product from some defined topics and issues. In addition to the conceptual design 

methods and the Computer Aided Industrial Design tools, students experience the Rapid 

Prototyping of the designed shape by means of a FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 

technique. In 2008, students, working in groups up to 4 persons, were requested to design 

a helmet, with an advanced level of customization. Following the phases of the design 

process, their ideas evolved into new products, which addressed latent needs defined in 


135 



accordance with the typology and functions of the helmet chosen by each team and 

compared to similar existing products. Therefore, each project resulted in significant 

different products concerning several markets in spite of the few same guiding indications 

and workflow. By this teaching approach, it is possible to transmit course’s contents 

through students’ direct experience and applying product design concepts and innovative 

technologies on a specific case study. In this way, the final step of the paper is to compare 

the different projects, and underline in each of them the workflow of each product design 

and how each team developed the ideas of future engineers. 

Keywords: Design Methods, Product Development, Concepts Generation, Rapid 

Prototyping. 

Corresponding Author: Francesca De Crescenzio 

Tel.: +39 0543 374447 

Fax.: +39 0543 374444 

e-mail: francesca.decrescenzio@unibo.it 

Address: Università di Bologna, Seconda Facoltà di Ingegneria, via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì (FC). 

Designing an interactive web manager 

applied to the development of spatial abilities 

C. Melgosa (a), B. Ramos (a), E. Baños (a), E. García (a), A. Román (a) 

(a) Universidad de Burgos, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Departamento de Expresión Gráfica (Spain) 

Abstract: 

The removal of contents (such as Descriptive Geometry) in the syllabi of graphic 

expression subjects, partially in some cases and totally others, which had proved to 

develop the spatial vision ability, have resulted in our students being lacking in this 

capacity. 

Despite efforts to reduce these gaps, like the introduction of computers in the learning 

process, the authors of this paper believe that researching into tools helping to improve 

students' spatial vision is needed. 

That´s why we suggest the use of a learning/educational platform tailored to Graphic 

Engineering, which manages and evaluates the learning process, taking into account the 

development of capacity for spatial vision, from the earliest stages of this development 

and in the most deprived pupils. 

As a first step we have designed and developed an interactive open web manager of 

learning in Graphic Engineering focused on developing the capacity for spatial vision for 

components as well as its standard representation. 

One aim of this paper is to describe this manager, whose main features are: three profiles 

of access, a database to manage all the information, monitoring and evaluation of 


136 



learning, ability to create and assign exercises and a 3D viewer that allows students to 

manipulate 3D objects and make easier learning. 

We also explain how the content and users management system has been designed, being 

adapted to the basic contents of Graphic Engineering as well as an evaluation of the 

monitoring system of student learning. 

Finally, the results of a satisfaction survey show that students positively value the 

manager and highlight its 3D viewer as an element of great help in solving exercises. 

Keywords: Web based teaching and learning, Engineering graphics, Spatial ability, 

Interactive graphics, Monitoring of learning 

Corresponding Author: Carlos Melgosa 

Tel.:+34 947 258 926 

Fax.: +34 947 258 910 

e-mail: cmelgosa@ubu.es 

Address: Universidad de Burgos, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Avda. Cantabria s/n. 

Evolution of graphic representation applied 

to chemical engineering 

I. Sentana (a), E. Sentana (a), N. Sesse (a) 

(a) University of Alicante 

Abstract: 

The present research analyzes the development of Graphics representation applied to 

chemical engineering through the years. 

This evolution throughout history is not due to the influence of a single discipline, but it 

was due to a variety of them, all in the field of Chemistry. 

This research starts since antiquity, going through the Renaissance, the industrial 

revolution until the new Century, showing the Graphics representation of specific 

drawings of the chemical engineering throughout history until the last progress of CAD 

systems. 

This research highlights the influence of chemistry in the history through the graphical 

expression in the first prehistoric paintings, through representation used in Greek 

alchemy, reaching the new Century with the development of new standards in order to 

reach a fine interpretation of complex drawings such as petrochemical structures. 

Chemistry in its development, has been partly linked to the graphical drawing, the 

compounds are represented by graphics symbols, creating an universal language allowing 

Communications regardless of language. 

Now, CAD Systems have improved the design and further development of chemical 

industries, with complexity in the number of components and auxiliary Systems have led 


137 



to the development of more specific CAD Systems that helped the design task of Chemical 

Engineering. 

Keywords: Graphic representation, chemical engineering, history 

Corresponding Author: Irene Sentana 

Tel.: (+0034)965903654 

e-mail: Irene.sentana@ua.es 

Address: Department of Graphic Expression and Cartography. University of Alicante P.O. Box 99. 

03080, Spain. 

Use of an Open-Source PLM solution 

to improve teamwork performance in product design courses 

P. Sanin (a), R. Mejia-Gutierrez (b) 

(a) Department of Product Design Engineering, Universidad EAFIT 

(b) Department of Product Design Engineering, Universidad EAFIT 

Abstract: 

As Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) strategies are getting more and more common 

worldwide, developing countries have the increasing industrial need of engineers trained 

on these technologies. This is motivating academic institutions to tackle this issue by 

integrating PLM in their curriculums. This paper describes a pilot implementation of a PLM 

strategy in a Product Design Project Course at EAFIT University. The PLM strategy is used 

to support the development of the design process and teamwork performed by students. 

During two consecutive academic periods the course was analyzed, a PLM strategy was 

prepared and executed, and monitoring was carried out to obtain comparative data on 

the success of the implementation. An evaluation was performed on the role this 

implementations can have in improving drawbacks that usually arise during the 

development of collaborative design projects amongst students. Open-Source PLM 

Software was employed to facilitate future application of these tools by the students 

themselves in their future employments. 

Keywords: Collaborative Design, Open-Source, Product Lifecycle Management, Projectbased 

learning, Teamwork. 

Corresponding Author: Pedro Sanin 

Tel.: (+57)3006144188 

e-mail: psaninpe@eafit.edu.co 

Address: Cr.48-7No.186 Medellin, Colombia. 


138 



Teaching the rules of the space: 

the Olympic Theater in Sabbioneta 

C. Monteleone (a) 

(a) University of Study of Padova, Faculty of Engeneering, 

DAUR-Architectural, Urbanistic and Survey Department 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Visual perception is a phenomenological interpretation but it is unable to return exactly 

the essence of reality, the sight returns some apparent and exterior qualities of things as 

shape and chromatic features, the only way to bend the space and to create views of 

apparent worlds is to know the intimate truth of perception. 

Method: 

The conscious utilization of geometric optics is a valuable tool to disseminate the scientific 

and intellectual aspects of the building art, but it is essential to confront not only 

geometric theory but also practical examples, possibly following the most distinguished 

architects. 

Result: 

snatching space deformation process and taking a further step towards self-interpretation 

and design. 


student training to the comprehension of the space and its geometric rules; the space 

control can generate an illusory, but not for this reason less realistic, landscape. 

Keywords: perspective, sabbioneta, design, scamozzi, theater 

Corresponding Author: Cosimo Monteleone 

Tel.: +393283654999 

e-mail: monsleo@yahoo.it 

Address: Via Venezia, 1 - 35131 Padova 


139 


SURVEYING, MAPPING AND GIS TECHNIQUES 


141 


Surveying, Mapping and GIS Techniques 

Virtual reconstruction of the door of the Apostles 

of the Insigne Collegiate Church of Santa María 

of Gandia Spain 

I. Lengua Lengua (a), G. Peris Fajarnés (a), T. Magal Royo (a), L. Dunai (a), J. L. Giménez López (a) 

(a) Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universitat Politècnica de València 

Abstract: 

On the occasion of the restoration of Insigne Collegiate in Gandia and continuing the 

research work carried out by Sanchez Piris reconstruction of the original front door of the 

Apostles of the Collegiate, begins a second phase of research that has aim to generate a 

virtual image of what could have been the door of the Apostles dating from the XVI 

century. Although the door did not have images or historical references or recorded, it 

does have data on the architectural style and the time it was built. It is believed that the 

author could have been Pere Comte or any member of his school, who is credited with the 

Valencia Marketplace, a World Heritage listed. Since there is no historical reference to 

what might have been the original facade, with the supervision of the architect 

responsible for the restoration of the Collegiate Dr. D. Architect Peñin Alberto Ibáñez, we 

proceed to conduct a research study that aims to make a virtual projection on the door of 

the Apostles in a non-invasive technique that simulates what might have been the main 

gate of the Collegiate. 

Keywords: Screening, virtual, research, simulation, graphics 

Corresponding Author: Ismael Lengua Lengua 

Tel.:+34 963879518 

Fax.: +34 963879519 

e-mail: islenlen@dig.upv.es 

Address: Camino de Vera s/n Ed. 8L 46022 Valencia (Spain) 

Landform of Alicante province by using GIS 

A. P. Merina (a), C. C. Perucho (a), M. A. Ruiz (b), I. C. Guerrero (a) 

(a) Polytechnic University of Madrid 

(b) Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

It is proposed a methodology to get landform of an area by using GIS techniques and a 

verification afterwards by photographs taken from several highways and motorways. 


142 



Method: 

Within the catalog of geographic features that serve to define a specific landscape of an 

area, this paper proposes the study of the landform. It is about mapping by using 

Geographic Information Systems, specifically the ArcGIS 9.3 (ArcMap and ArcCatalog). To 

do this, it is necessary to use both raster and feature formats. 

The methodology using of various coverage of the Alicante province, extending from the 

contour, vertices surveying, dimensional points, administrative boundaries of the province 

to rivers and reservoirs. All this information has been provided by the National Center for 

Geographic Information. In this manner, we obtain a Digital Terrain Model corrected 

hydrogeologically to 1:25000. 

Starting off of this digital terrain model - which has been calculated through the actions 

explained above- we used several tools of ArcGIS 9.3, including: neighborhood focal 

statistcs, reclassify, slope, clip, intersect, dissolve, etc. in order to calculate relative relief, 

slope and neighbourhood analysis radius. With these parameters we obtain a Landform 

Classification of Alicante province (Spain). 

Afterward, we contrast the landform result with a pictures taking from several highways 

and motorways in Alicante in order to identify if this classification is correspond with the 

reality. 

Result: 

As a result, we obtain an Automatic Landform Classification of Alicante in 1:25000, and 

properly methodology to do this delimitation because it has been contracted with the real 

landform by pictures. 


After the verification with the reality, the result map is be able to extrapolate the 

methodology applied to others places with similar or different superficies and also with 

another type of topography. It is only necessary to adapt some parameters depending of 

the project scale. 

Keywords: GIS, Landscape, Landform, Highways 

Corresponding Author: Ana Pou Merina 

Tel.: 0034913665767 - 0034667408993 

e-mail: anapoumerina@gmail.com 

Address: Avd. Complutense s/n Madrid 28040 (Spain) 

Survey and graphic interpretation of underground cellars 

F. R. Mazarrón (a), J. A. Flores Soto (a), J. Cid Falceto (a), C. Porras Amores (a), Ignacio Cañas (a) 

(a) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Research group: “Heritage, landscape, graphic representation 

and agroforestry construction” 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 


143 



This work is framed within a reuse project of traditional underground cellars. 

Underground wine cellars are singular elements of the architectonic and cultural Spanish 

heritage. The goal is to have for the reuse and intervention analysis valid documents 

which represent the reality of the object being studied as closely as possible, 

understanding the level of abstraction of the graphic representation. 

Method: 

To establish the proposed reuse and intervention measures the mapping of the cellars is 

necessary. First of all it was necessary to clean and recondition the cellars. Then a 

topographical survey of the cellars was carried out. Given the irregular geometry and 

characteristics of the constructions under study, the conducted survey data have required 

a graphic interpretation, completing these data with the information obtained in 

subsequent visits to the cellars. 

Result: 

The result plans are as complete as possible to understand the shape, interior volume and 

state of the cellars: location, framework, details and singular points, pathologies, cross 

sections, longitudinal sections, images, necessary intervention measures and reuse 

proposal. 


We propose a methodology for conducting the mapping of underground constructions, 

through a topographic survey and graphic interpretation of the results. The result plans 

offers a geometric definition of the wine cellars, being the support for the analysis and 

diagnosis of the conservation state. The plans are instrument to know with acceptable 

error the real surface, geometry and length of the cellars. This methodology based on 

total stations could be a reference for similar studies. 

Keywords: topographic survey, graphic interpretation, cellar, underground 

Corresponding Author: Fernando R. Mazarrón 

Tel.:+34913365767 

Fax.:+34913363688 

e-mail: f.ruiz@upm.es 

Address:E.T.S.I.Agrónomos. Departamento de Construcción y Vías Rurales. Avenida Complutense 

s/n. 28040 Madrid. 


144 



Analysis of the geometry of nature. 

Particular case of traditional underground cellars 

C. Porras-Amores (a), A. Adán-Oliver (b), J.L. Benito (c), F. R. Mazarrón (a), Ignacio Cañas (a) 



(b) Universidad Castilla y la Mancha. Escuela Superior de Informática. Department: Electrical, 

Electronic and Automation Engineering. 

(c) Universidad Castilla y la Mancha. Escuela Superior de Caminos. Department: 

Mechanic applied and Project engineering. 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Traditional underground cellars are singular elements of Architectonic and Cultural 

Heritage of Spain. Branched plan, irregular sections and rough surfaces complicate the 

survey and geometry analysis of these constructions. The purpose of this research is to set 

a data capture technique that documents efficiently and accurately the underground 

Architectonic Heritage. 

Method: 

We propose a methodology based on 3D scanner to study and analyze the traditional 

underground constructions. This methodology offers the possibility of a large data 

acquisition in a short period of time, obtaining a detailed study of the volume of this type 

of traditional construction, and their distribution in space. 

Result: 

The 3D scanner shows the structure and the details concerning underground construction, 

capturing roughness or small shape changes in the walls. 3D scanner accurately 

distinguishes the texture of walls and elements of the cellar. Also different materials can 

be identified. The approximate time needed in each shot is 4 minutes for scanning and 10 

minutes for image capture. 


We can conclude that the 3D scanner technique efficiently and accurately characterize 

and represent underground constructions. 3D images have high quality and clarity, 

enabling to analyze visual elements (texture, color, lighting and shape). 

Keywords: 3D scanner, Geometry, Underground cellar, Traditional construction, Cultural 

heritage 

Corresponding Author: Cesar Porras Amores 

Tel.: +34913365767 

Fax.:+34913363688 

e-mail: c.porras@upm.es 

Address: E.T.S.I. Agrónomos. Departamento de Construcción y Vías Rurales. Avenida Complutense 

s/n. 28040 Madrid 


145 



The artesonado of the hunters' lounge. 

Palace of the infantado of guadalajara 

A. M. Trallero Sanz (a), A. Marín Palma (a), A. López-Tercero (a), 

G. de los Galanes (a), E. García Martínez 

(a) Departamento de Arquitectura. Universidad de Alcalá 

Abstract: 

The Infantado Duke´s Palace was considered one of the best Gothic palaces of Spain. Its 

owners, the diverse Infantado Dukes, devoted themselves for centuries to enriching it, 

adapting it to the needs and likings of the moment, including panelworks in all the rooms, 

mural paintings, ceramic paintings, tapestries collections of confectioners and of weapons, 

carpets, etc. The beginning of the XXth century sees the start of a long period of decay and 

its closure when it stopped being the private residence of the Dukes while keeping intact 

all its real estate. Finally it was in the XXth century, that a fire produced by the fall of a 

bomb destroyed it almost completely. 

This article shows how magnificent the ceiling panelwork that convered the Hunters' 

Lounge of the Palace was, returning to the historical documentary sources and to the 

remaining fragmentary pieces that still survive in building´s cellar, which were classified 

and catalogued and which according to the room dimensions, allowed us to trace their 

development and, with the help of current graphical tools, enabled us to take one more 

step and recreate an image of what these spaces might have looked like. 

Keywords: Infantado 

Corresponding Author: Antonio Miguel Trallero Sanz 

Tel.: +34 949 209 633 

Fax.: +34 949 209 682 

e-mail: antonio.trallero@uah.es 

Address: Escuela de Arquitectura Técnica. Edificio Multidepartamental C/ Cifuentes 28 19002- 

GUADALAJARA (ESPAÑA) 


146 



Architectural survey and Robotics: 

new frontiers in study, preservation 

and restoration of historical sites 

M. Cigola (a) 

(a) Laboratorio di Documentazione, Analisi, Rilievo dell’Architettura e del Territorio, DiMSAT, 

Università di Cassino 

Abstract: 

In this work a study of feasibility is illustrated to design and build a mobile robot for 

inspection and analysis of historical sites of architectonic interest. This novel application 

for robotic systems can be considered of great interest because nowadays the need of 

more and more accurate and efficient survey activity requires enhancement and even 

development of procedures with more reliable, innovative, and advanced characteristics. 

Within this expectation robots and robotic systems seem to be suitable solutions even 

with the purposes of: operating in environments that cannot be reached by human 

operators. The study of feasibility concerns with the analysis and simulation of a robotic 

system that can be used for operating in historical sites. Basic features of such mobile 

robots, either legged or wheeled, are well known, but specific requirements should be 

considered for the proposed applications in archaeological/architectural sites, which can 

be considered as a novelty in the field of Robotics. Basic features of the proposed robotic 

system can be summarized as follows: the robot should be able to move inside the 

archaeological and/or architectural sites by carrying surveying devices and by avoiding 

damage of the surface and other parts of the site. 

In Cassino preliminary design considerations have been developed and a suitable 

simulation has been carried out in order to test a designed robotic system acting on a 

simulated pavement, for several operating conditions. The simulation process is of basic 

importance, since it is not possible to test in advance the robot on site and there are not 

precise information about the preservation of pavement under-study. A simulation has 

been carried out with different conditions and it has been also useful to test the operation 

of the design of a robotic system with hexapod structure. At this moment, the research in 

Cassino is in a final phase concerning with first applications of a robot prototype. 

However, a continuous review of the design work is undergoing to formulate a general 

problem in which the design of a suitable low-cost easy-operation robotic system is 

properly defined also for not expert users in the field of robotics. The prototype activity is 

performed with the aim to design a specific test-bed through which verifies the identified 

design requirements and feasible solutions even for the operation of the system. 

Keywords: Architecture, Restoration, Survey, Robotics 

Corresponding Author: Michela Cigola 

Tel.: +39 0776 2993609 

Fax.: +39 0776 2994305 


147 



e-mail: cigola@unicas.it 

Address: Via G. Di Biasio, 43. 

03043 Cassino, Italia 

Hydrologic moment of a watershed area 

M. Goñi (a), J. J. López (a), F. N. Gimena (a) 

(a) Department of Projects Engineering. Public University of Navarre. 

Abstract: 

Hydrologic moment of the watershed area is defined as the static moment with respect to 

the outlet of the watershed. In this paper we show two different ways to get the 

hydrologic moment through GIS tools: by dividing the watershed into sub-watersheds 

from the drainage network, or by dividing the watershed into areas related to the distance 

to the watershed’s outlet. The Reservoir Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit 

Hydrograph is determined for each value of hydrologic moment previously obtained, and 

these hydrographs are applied to two watershed events. The results are analysed in order 

to show an appropriate and accurate way to determine the hydrologic moment. 

Keywords: Hydrologic moment, Gis, sub-watersheds and iso-distances, Unit Hydrograph. 


Tel.: +34 948 169 225 


Address: Campus de Arrosadía, s/n. 31006 Pamplona. Spain 

A GIS approach to monitor territorial transformations: 

digital assessment of the cycle paths in Paestum 

B. Messina (a), P. D’Agostino (a) 

(a) Salerno University (Italy), Faculty of Engineering 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The study intends to develop a digital procedure to ‘automatically’ create cycle paths 

compatible with regional requirements. 

Method: 

To achieve this goal a GIS will be used as a graphic tool to identify and assess the routes. 

Result: 

The results validate the proposed digital approach, highlighting the substantial 

overlapping between the design route and the automatically generated route. 


148 




This paper intends to provide a simple, consultable tool that can efficiently and easily 

produce the information required to support the design options specifically analysed and 

integrated in the system. 

Keywords: GIS, environmental transformations, digital representation, cycle paths 

Corresponding Author: Barbara Messina 

Tel.: +3989963465 

Fax.:+3989964045 

e-mail: bmessina@unisa.it 

Address: Dip. Ing. Civile, via Ponte don Melillo, 84084 Fisciano (SA) 

BAECULA battle Geographic Information System 

I. Cárdenas Anguita (a), F. Mozas Martínez (b), J. M. Valderrama Zafra (b) 

(a) Centro Andaluz de Arqueología Ibérica. Universidad de Jaén 

(b) Universidad de Jaén 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This contribution explains the procedure followed for the construction of GIS applied to 

the study of the archaeological scene of a battle. 

It is about the Baecula Battle, that took place in 208 b.C.in the frame of the second Punic 

War, near to the village of Santo Tomé (Jaén), that faced the Carthaginian army 

commanded by Asdrubal Barca, with the roman Army commanded by Publio Cornelio 

Escipion “the African”. 

The CAAI (Iberic Archaeological Andalusian Center), along five field works stage, since 

2006 until now, have made a job of investigation based on the low level prospection of the 

artifacts located in the battle area. 

Method: 

The methodology used has a land survey phase, consistent in a surface scanning based in a 

106 transect system, divided in 3453 square parcels, which cover 40 hectares. In this area 

was registered the ceramics artifacts detected in each square parcel and then the 6123 

metallic rests found with magnetic prospection was geolocated by GPS. During the 

laboratory phase, took place the identification and classification of the materials. 

All of this archaeological and geographical information has been integrated to make up a 

geographical database, been those register the one that link with the battle, implementing 

with all the available cartography to help the analysis tasks. 

Result: 

The operation of the GIS and it application to cartographic analysis techniques has 

improved the knowledge of the battle development, from the movements of troops 

through the areas with mayor tacks concentration (that cover the sole of the roman shoe), 


149 



to the zones where took place the different stages (the assembly of the roman army, fight 

face to face, etc…). By the way have been done another study of the density of Iberic 

ceramic artifacts, that together with the presence of nails of the shelter tents, has provide 

an important indication to locate the zones where the roman and the Carthaginian army 

placed their camps. 


In any case, it confirms that the application of the GIS in the battle scene of Baecula, bring 

us positives results. 

Keywords: Archaeology, G.I.S., Baecula, Battle 

Corresponding Author: Inmaculada Cardenas Anguita 

Tel.: + 34 953 213510 

e-mail: icardenasanguita@gmail.com 

Address: Paraje las lagunillas, Jaén (España) 

Methodology for the metric restoration 

of the historical cartography 

applied to Francisco Coello´s cartografic series 

of the Royal Site of Aranjuez 

J. C. Asenjo (a), C. San Antonio (a), R. García (a) 

(a) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) Madrid/España 

Abstract: 

This study presents a process for restoring part of the 1860s cartographic series known as 

Hojas Kilométricas (Kilometric Sheets). Specifically, the study focuses on those sheets 

referring to the city centre and surrounding area of the Royal Site of Aranjuez, a town in 

the south of the Province of Madrid. 

The aim of this study is to restore the actual size and measurements of scanned images of 

the Hojas Kilométricas. This would allow us, among other things, to reestablish both the 

format and scale of the original plans. To achieve this goal it is necessary to rectify and 

then georeference these images, i.e. assign them a geographic reference system. 

This procedure is essential in the overlaying and comparison of the Hojas Kilométricas of 

the Royal Site with other historical cartography as well as other sources related to the 

same area from different time periods. Subsequent research would allow us, for example, 

to reconstruct the time-evolution of the urban area, to spot new construction and to 

pinpoint the locations of any altered or missing buildings or architectural features. In 

addition, this would allow us to develop and integrate databases for GIS models applicable 

to the management of our cultural heritage. 


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Keywords: Metric restoration, Historical cartography, ”Hojas Kilométricas”, 

Georeferencing 

Corresponding Author: Juan Carlos Asenjo 

Tel.:+34913365427 

e-mail: juancarlos.asenjo@upm.es 

Address: E.U.I.T. Agrícola, Ciudad Universitaria s/n 28040-Madrid 

Determination of orthometric heights from LiDAR data 

J. L. Pérez (a), A. T. Mozas (a), A. López (a), 

F. Aguilar (b), J. Delgado (a), I. Fernández (b), M. A. Aguilar (b) 

(a) Dept. of Cartographic Engineering, Geodesy and Photogrammetry, University of Jaén, Spain 

(b) Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, University of Almería, Spain. 

Abstract: 

Mapping mission is to obtain an accurate representation of the form and the elements 

that exist in a particular area or region. Therefore, mapping projects often use a large 

number of points, which in recent years has increased with the use of LiDAR systems. The 

orthometric height determination can be done from a local geoid model determining the 

undulations with respect to the reference ellipsoid for each of them. The use of this 

methodology for all points may not be necessary in many cases, because of the accuracy 

of the acquisition system (~ 15cm) and the geoid model. So, we can minimize the number 

of points needed to determine the undulation and interpolate it in the rest of LiDAR point 

cloud. This paper shows the results of the analysis of various simplifications applied to the 

number and location of points with the geoid undulation known for determining the 

orthometric heights of points acquired through LiDAR system. 

Keywords: LIDAR, Ortometric height 

Corresponding Author: Andrés López 

Tel.: +34 953 212480 

Fax.: +34 953 212855 

e-mail: alarenas@ujaen.es 

Address: Campus Las Lagunillas sn. Edificio A3. 23071. Jaén (Spain) 


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Geometric processing of GeoEye-1 satellite imagery 

for coastal mapping applications 

M. Ángel Aguilar (a), F. J. Aguilar (a), A. Fernández (b), I. Fernández (a), M. del Mar Saldaña (a), 

A. M. García Lorca (c), J. G. Negreiros (d), A. Viciana (e), E. González (b) 

(a) Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano, Spain 

(b) Dept. of Engineering Design, Universidad de Vigo, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Industrial, 

Campus Universitario, Spain 

(c) Dept. Geography and History of the Art, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano, Spain 

(d) ISEGI, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal 

(e) Dept. Geographical Regional Analysis, UNED, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia 

Abstract: 

In 2008 and with the cooperation of the U.S. Department of Defence, it was launched a 

new commercial very high resolution (VHR) satellite named GeoEye-1 (GeoEye, Inc.) 

which, nowadays, is the commercial satellite with the best geometric resolution, so much 

in panchromatic (0.41m) as in multispectral (1.65m). More recently, on January 4, 2010, 

DigitalGlobe have begun to commercialize imagery of the last of the VHR satellites 

launched: WorldView-2. Its most relevant technical innovation includes the radiometric 

accuracy improvement, since the number of bands that compose its multispectral image 

has increased to 8, instead of the 4 classic bands (R, G, B, NIR) of the previous VHR 

satellites. 

These new VHR satellites offer important improvements closely related to spatial and 

spectral resolution. Therefore, an improvement is awaited in: (i) the geometric accuracies 

obtained in orthoimages and digital elevation models (DEMs) generated from scenes of 

GeoEye-1 and WorldView-2, as well as, (ii) an increase in the accuracy of the objects 

classification (urbanizations, buildings, highways, impervious zones, crops). These possible 

improvements will have to be contrasted with real tests carried out in field conditions, 

studying the ideal performance procedures in the seeking of accurate geo-referenced 

information. 

In this work the geometric accuracy of a single panchromatic image of GeoEye-1 with an 

off-nadir angle higher than 20 degrees was researched. Rational Polynomial Coefficients 

refined by a zero order polynomial adjustment (RPC0) was the sensor model that 

generated the best results. Using a DEM with a vertical accuracy of about 1.34 m, accurate 

orthoimages (planimetric root mean square error of 0.87 m) can be obtained from 

GeoEye-1 imagery. 

Keywords: Satellite imagery, Orthorectification, Classification, Accuracy, DEM. 

Corresponding Author: Manuel Ángel Aguilar 

Tel.: 950015950 

Fax.: 950015491 

e-mail: maguilar@ual.es 


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Address: University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano s/n, 04120 Almería, Spain 

Tomas Lopez’s Geographic Atlas of Spain (1787) 

and its Hydrographic Network: 

GIS analysis of the “Reyno de Jaen” 

C. San Antonio Gómez (a), F. Manzano Agugliaro (b), J. Martínez García (b) 

(a) Dept . Ingeniería Cartográfica-Expresión Gráfica, E.T.S.I. Agrónomos, 

Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, España 

(b) Dept. Ingeniería Rural Universidad de Almería, Escuela Politécnica Superior, España. 

Abstract: 

Knowledge of the development of hydrographic networks can be useful for a number of 

research works in hydraulic engineering. We thus, intend to analyse the cartography 

regarding the first work that systematically encompasses the entire hydrographic 

network: Tomas Lopez’s Geographic Atlas of Spain (1787). In order to achieve this goal, we 

will first analyze –by way of the Geographic Information System (GIS) – both the present 

and referred historical cartographies. In comparing them, we will use the then-existing 

population centres that correspond to modern ones. The aim is to compare the following 

research variables in the hydrographic network: former toponyms, length of riverbeds and 

distance to population centres. The results of this study will show the variation in the 

riverbeds and the probable change in their denomination. 

Keywords: Accuracy, historical cartography, Tomas Lopez, river, Geographic Atlas of Spain 

Corresponding Author: Carlos de San Antonio Gómez 

e-mail: c.sanantonio@upm.es 

Address: Ciudad Universitaria, s/n, 28040-Madrid 

Improvements in the determination of extrapolated shorelines 

using Elevation Gradient Trend Propagation method. 

I. Fernández(a), F. J. Aguilar(a), J. L. Pérez(b), M. A. Aguilar(a), A. Mozas(b), A. López(b) 

(a) Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano, Spain 

(b) Dept. of Cartographic Engineering, Geodesy and Photogrammetry, University of Jaén, Spain 

Abstract: 

Shoreline represents a coastal evolution indicator. Hence there is a necessity to develop 

new methods of shoreline mapping. Nowadays the most widely used method to compute 

the shoreline position is the so-called Cross Shore Profile method (CSP), which is based on 


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computing a linear regression along different cross-shore profiles to interpolate the 

corresponding shoreline. However, the Mean Sea Level (MSL) datum makes difficult to get 

points under the datum elevation due to daily tidal variation, run-ups and waves. 

Therefore, it is necessary to develop a geometric extrapolation method to estimate the 

shoreline. 

The present work aims to validate a shoreline extraction method using the Elevation 

Gradient Trend Propagation method (EGTP), which extrapolates the local gradient until 

the desired datum is reached. This validation was also carried out over the CSP method. 

Due to the lack of reliable vertical data around the MSL datum, the 0.4 m. contour was 

used as the synthetic MSL because it was the lowest contour level not presenting noise 

effects. Both extrapolation methods were applied from different reference elevations: 0.6, 

0.8 and 1.0 m. The vertical range needed for CSP adjustment took 0.4 m. above each of 

the aforementioned reference elevation. Moreover, an additional method was applied to 

the data consisting of a mixed two steps method: first, the extrapolated Digital Elevation 

Model (DEM) is computed from EGTP and, second, the final shoreline is extracted by 

applying CSP on the EGTP extrapolated. The standard deviation of the differences 

between the supposed shoreline truth and the estimated shoreline over 14 homogeneous 

sample regions points out the accuracy of the applied method. 

The results of this work showed the goodness of EGTP shoreline extraction method 

compared to CSP one since the corresponding extracted shoreline was significantly more 

accurate. Moreover, the mixed method turned out to be very close to the original EGTP 

except in a few areas where it was proved the influence of profile orientation in CSP 

method. Finally, the influence of the starting extrapolation elevation was also proved, 

showing that the highest errors clearly matched the highest vertical differences between 

reference datum and starting extrapolation elevation. 

Keywords: Shoreline, extrapolation, coastal, LIDAR, DEM 

Corresponding Author: Ismael Fernández Luque 

Tel.: +34 677 629 407 

e-mail: ismaelf@ual.es 

Address: Escuela Politécnica Superior, Ctra. Sacramento s/n, La Cañada de San Urbano, 04120, 

Almería, Spain. 


154 



Robust surface matching 

as a rapid technique for terrain change detection 

F. J. Aguilar (a), I. Fernández (a), M. A. Aguilar (a), J. Delgado (b), J. G. Negreiros (c), J. L. Pérez (b) 

(a) Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano, Spain 

(b) Department of Cartographic Engineering, Geodesy and Photogrammetry, University of Jaén, Spain 

(c) ISEGI, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal 

Abstract: 

Digital elevation models (DEMs) are widely used in GIS to predict the impact of coastal 

flooding and Sea Level Rise in coastal areas. Furthermore, DEM change detection within a 

certain time period may be also used to automatically quantify the coastal landscape 

changes. In this sense many researchers have adopted 3D surface matching techniques 

without control points (GCPs) to automatically co-register multi-temporal DEMs. 

In this paper a new approach based on robust surface matching for DEM 3D georeferencing 

is proposed to avoid the costly and time-consuming necessity of GCPs. The 

algorithm starts from a coarse orientation of the historical DEM where the stereo model y- 

parallax is removed by means of an Automatic Relative Orientation. Additionally, it is 

necessary to manually mark three control points to apply a coarse Helmert 3D 

transformation, obtaining a preoriented stereo-pair which turned out to be helpful to 

improve and speed up the subsequent surface matching process. Absolute z-differences 

between reference and historical DEMs are calculated, allowing for the application of the 

widely known K-means algorithm to cluster up to four groups of homogeneous absolute 

differences. The two clusters showing the high values are considered as outliers or areas 

where terrain has significantly changed. The remaining areas are deemed as potentially 

matching areas where the robust surface matching can be applied using the M-estimator 

called Tukey’s Biweight (TB). In this way the diagonal weight matrix, regarding TB function, 

is introduced in an iterative least square routine to compute the Helmert 3D 

transformation parameters. 

The proposed methodology was tested for geo-referencing a historical grid format DEM, 

comprising a little coastal area of Almeria (South Spain), obtained by digital stereophotogrammetry 

from a B&W photogrammetric flight taken in 1977 at an approximated 

scale of 1:18000. The reference DEM was the 10 m grid-spacing digital elevation model 

produced by the Andalusia Regional Government (Spain) from a 1:20000 scale B&W 

photogrammetric flight taken in 2001. As well, we counted on two accurate DEMs based 

on LiDAR technology (ground truth) taken in 2005 and 2009 respectively. 

The results obtained from this work may be deemed as very promising, showing a high 

efficiency and accuracy for historical DEM 3D geo-referencing. After the application of the 

robust surface matching for non-altered or stable areas, the computed uncertainty, 

measured as standard deviation of DEM z-differences, turned out to be 1.08 m. That is 

quite similar to the estimated uncertainty for the reference model (around 1.03 m). 


155 



Keywords: Surface matching, Digital elevation models, Change detection, Geomatic 

Engineering. 

Corresponding Author: Fernando J. Aguilar 

Tel.: +34950015491 

Fax.: +34950015491 

e-mail: faguilar@ual.es 

Address: La Cañada de San urbano s/n 04120 Almería, Spain 

Portraits of lost and possible cities 


M. P. Iarossi (a), F. Belloni (a) 

(a) Architectural Projects Department – Politecnico di Milano 

Abstract: 

At present the urban representation is largely entrusted to management of cartographic 

information by the GIS-Geographic Information System, reduced to a simple archive 

system of the cartography now currently in use. 

But this procedure is very inadequate, because the cities are the result of the passing of 

time and stratifications of slow changes and projects of radical reform. 

Therefore, the urban representation must introduce the time dimension and include also 

the carto-iconographic historical heritage. 

A representation system so extended makes it possible to: 

- describe the changes over time of the whole city or of its single sites, as well as the 

language with which the city itself has built its portrait and has communicated its identity 

through time; 

- favour the preservation and the divulgation of the archival heritage, often scattered in 

different archives. 

The research project “Portraits of cities in an interior” (co-ordinated by the Department of 

Architectural Design of Milan and to which participate the Universities of Bologna and 

RomaTre) have the objective to build a portal for an online access to the GIS of the 

heritage of cartography and iconography of Milan, Bologna and Rome. 

The project, currently in progress, thanks to the versatility of the webGIS - that permits to 

explore a heritage not homogeneous in terms of aims, representation system and scale - is 

able to create the conditions for knowledge about urban formation, transmittable to the 

most varied levels (from the specialist studies to the possibility of creating paths dedicated 

to school users or even to the planning of personalised museum journeys etc.). 

Moreover, among the most interesting potentialities there is the application to the 

definition of the “portraits of lost cities”, that is erased by the urban changes and the 

“portraits of possible cities”, consisting in the recomposition of the urban frames that 

could have derived from the realization of projects which remained on paper, as in the 

section dedicated to the big transformation projects of the Illuminist and Napoleonic 

Milan. 

156 



Keywords: urban representation, cartographic heritage, iconographic heritage, projects, 

Illuministic and Napoleonic Milan 

Corresponding Author: Maria Pompeiana Iarossi 

e-mail: piarossi@polimi.it 

Tel.:02.2399 5604 

Fax.:02.2399 5638 

Address: DPA - Via Durando 10, 20158 Milano 

Registration and 3D virtual reconstruction 

of the old Carmen's Spa Park (Málaga) 

E.B. Blázquez (a), M. L. Ladrón de Guevara (a), 

M. C. Ladrón de Guevara (a), F. Hermosilla(a), F. J. Castillo (a) 

(a) University of Málaga 

Abstract: 

For nearly two decades, computer graphics technologies have been employed in several 

fields for various purposes. The safeguard, the protection and the fruition of the remains 

of the past have gained a powerful tool, thanks to the potentialities of immersive 

visualization and 3D reconstruction. Nevertheless, on many occasions, the graphic 

information handled by people working in the cultural heritage sector is still in two 

dimensional models. This paper presents the research carried out to fill a gap in the 3D 

cultural heritage registration of Malaga, in Southern Spain, by virtual recreation 

techniques. It illustrates a complete methodology to create a virtual exhibition system, 

based on archaeological finds and graphical-historical information of the Carmen’s Spa 

Park. The model developed allows the study and displays the historical representation of 

this cultural heritage. 

Keywords: Computer graphics, virtual recreation, historic-graphics documents, cultural 

heritage 

Corresponding Author: E. Beatriz Blázquez 

Tel.:+34 951 952 282 

e-mail: ebeatriz@uma.es 

Address: Escuela de Ingenierías, C/ Doctor Ortiz Ramos, s/n, 29071, Málaga (Spain) 


157 



Elaboration of a GIS for the management 

of the new building of the engineering’s school 

J. R. Andrés (a), E. Molero (a), M. Luz García (a), M. A. Contreras (a) 

(a) Málaga University (Spain) 

Abstract: 

In this paper we present the creation of a GIS with the use of graphical representation as 

well as a data base with referenced elements of the new building of the Engineering’s 

School. The objective is to manage the distribution and the efficient use of the building. 

As parts of the work we will show these different phases: 

- Introduction of graphical data provided as cad drawings 

- Development of a data base referring the different areas of the building, their use, 

persons related to them, timetables, etc.; and the complex relations taken into account, 

needed to create an efficient system. 

- Integration of the previously elaborated data in a GIS platform (Geomedia-Intergraph) 

- Consults development 

- Publication as web system. 

The main difference with a traditional GIS is that we are not using geographically 

referenced data, but just graphical data. We are using a GIS system to support the 

management of a building. Besides we give access to the system to all the members of the 

university via internet. 

We show our results and explore new use of GIS as a management tool. 

Keywords: GIS, management, data base, web 

Corresponding Author: José R. Andrés 

Tel.: +34 951952272 

e-mail: jrandres@uma.es 

Address: Despacho 2.092 - Proyectos de Ingeniería - Escuela de Ingenierías. C/ Doctor Ortiz Ramos, 

s/n - Universidad de Málaga - 29071-Málaga (SPAIN) 


158 



Economic valuation 

Hornachuelos Natural Park (Córdoba, Spain), 

supported by Geographic Information Techniques 

R. E. Hidalgo Fernández (a), M. A. Hidalgo Fernández (b), J. A. Cañas Madueño (b) 

(a) Dpto. Ingeniería Gráfica y Geomática, Campus Universitario de Rabanales. Universidad de Córdoba. 

(b) Dpto. Economía, sociología y política agrarias, Facultad de Derecho y Ciencias Económicas 

y Empresariales. Universidad de Córdoba. 

Abstract: 

The object of this study is the economic evaluation of goods that have no clear market, 

and to reflect the value that society places on them with regard to their tourist and 

recreational attraction and the ecological characteristics they possess. The contribution of 

valuable management and data information could prove useful in decision-making - both 

on policies relating to environmental protection and to recreational use by visitors. To this 

end, and with the aim of determining the value of recreational visitors to the 

Hornachuelos Natural Park (Córdoba), 416 questionnaires were carried out during the 

period of October 2008 to May 2009, using the Travel Cost Method (TCM), the Contingent 

Valuation Method (CVM), and a Geographic Information System (GIS) to identify 

characteristics of natural beauty. These methods were combined to determine the value 

of the natural area. 

Keywords: Economic value, recreational use, natural area 

Corresponding Author: Rafael Enrique Hidalgo Fernández 

Tel.:0091957218335 

e-mail: ig1hifer@uco.es 

Address: Dpto. Ingeniería gráfica fisiomática, Campus Universitario de Rabanales. Cra. N-IV. Km 

396.14071 Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba 

Simulation and virtual approach: 

from architecture to landscape 

E. Marchis (a), M. Vitali (a) 

(a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Sistemi Edilizi e Territoriali, Politecnico di Torino 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

This contribute aim to explore 3D modelling and its practical applications investigating 

scales of representation and scales of contents from architecture to landscape. 

Method: 


159 



The goal of this research work was to test the flexibility of modeling tools – in this case 

AutoCAD 2011® and Rhinoceros 4.8® – to different field of application and to draw shared 

methods, even if they are applied in so different context. 

Result: 

During the research occurred some problems that should be considered as central for 

future developments. They will drive the mainlines for the refinement of software and 

application technologies, but it must be remembered that, first of all, the direct 

experience and the validation with practical case studies must be absolutely taken into 

account. 


The experience made and the reflections on the achievements allowed to compare digital 

techniques of representation for architecture and territory. On the basis of the outcomes 

and of research directions for the future, it has paved the way to thinking useful to the 

implementation of the method and to the management of the graphic results. 

Keywords: Architecture and landscape, Representation, 3D modelling, Integration of 

techniques, Solid image. 

Corresponding Author: Elena Marchis 

Tel.: 0115645315 

Fax: 0115645399 

e-mail: elena.marchis@polito.it 

Address: corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24 – Torino 

Methodology for highways network infrastructures´ design 

in the landscape 

C. C. Perucho (a), A. P. Merina (a), M. A. Ruiz (b), I. C. Guerrero (a) 


(b) Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

Landscape evaluation is a graphical approach to the previous study of highway sections 

which later will be travelled by car. 

Method: 

Through maps, diagrams and sketches we can get an idea of what we have found in the 

journeys, and so make better use of them. The first step is to select the section to analyze. 

We choose one section of the AP6 highway which runs between Villacastín and 

Navalcanto, because these villages are very close from our point of origin, Madrid (Spain), 

as well as being a journey with a variety of landscapes to be analyzed. . 


160 



After selecting the section, we collect the information available on it, aerial photos, maps, 

kilometric points. 

With this initial map we went out to the road with a camera and a GPS (geographic 

position system) device, we travelled through the area and its nearby, in order to extend 

the visual information about the section. 

We developed a map of landscape quality from “Spanish Landscape Atlas” and 

“Cañas´Methodology for Assessing the Landscape”. 

We use the program ArcGIS to get the view shed from the highway, that is, eliminating 

from the map the areas from the road that we can´t appreciate.. 

The visual exposure areas depend on the distance at which objects are observed. From 0 

to 30 meters have immediate level, between 30-200 meters the foreground, 200-400 the 

middle ground, and from there, the background. 

Result: 

Rafael Mata’s “Atlas de los Paisajes de España” (Spain’s Landscapes Atlas) recognizes 32 

landscape typologies, each one including a variety of subtypes. Our study aims to go one 

step further in landscape characterization, reducing the scale of the approach (from 

1/700000 to 1/25000) and implementing the valuation methodology proposed by Ignacio 

Cañas. The result of the study will be a map representing the visual landscape. 


A landscape interpretation map is a powerful tool in order to assess the design of future 

infrastructures, as it complements the information provided by cartography, land usage, 

topography and population information of a certain area, helping to determine the best 

tracing choices of a route depending on what we want or don’t want to be observed from 

it. 

Keywords: Landscape, highways network infrastructures, view sheds, ArcGIS, Landscape 

quality 

Corresponding Author: Cruz Calleja Perucho 

Tel.: 0034913665767 - 0034650979039 

e-mail: cruzcallejaperucho@gmail.com 

Address: Avd. Complutense s/n Madrid 28040 (Spain) 


161 


INNOVATIVE METHODS IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 


163 


Innovative Methods in Architectural Design 

Descriptive models and knowledge management. 

Experiences and Perspective 

L. M. Papa (a) 

(a) University of Naples Federico II 

Abstract: 

The complexity of reality, both constitutive and interpretation, led the increase, often 

redundant forms of knowledge benefiting brought the most advanced information and 

communication technologies whose communicative connotations binds specifically to the 

needs of rapid interaction and cost content. 

in recent years have been tested and evaluated many and varied models able to 

reproduce as closely as possible to real objects, in particular the process of creating a 

virtual model, namely the graphical representation of a three-dimensional object to 

'internal software, it has gradually through explicit modeling techniques are increasingly 

diverse 

In the wake of these considerations are exemplified in three significant segments of a 

research conducted at different scales and in different contexts: urban, architectural and 

archaeological heritage, in which there are differences in methodology and consistent 

business practices, recognizing the specific needs and expressive approach. 

Keywords: multiresolution modells, validation protocol, communication process 

Corresponding Author: Lia Maria Papa 

Tel.: 039 0817682331 

Fax.: 039 0815937944 

e-mail: lmpapa@unina.it 

Address: Naples, pl. V.Tecchio, 80 

Walking through history. A visionary project 

for the third-millenium perugia 

P. Belardi (a), L. Martini (a) 

(a) University of Perugia 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The ancient Piazza del Sopramuro in Perugia, located in between Corso Vannucci and Via 

della Rupe, is an area that naturally developed its trade attitude, constituting a geographic 

cornerstone between the city and countryside. At the same time, it clearly possesses its 


164 



own identifiability, being historic location of important public institutions. The basic 

objective of the research is to create a pedestrian path that links the Minimetrò terminal, 

designed by Jean Nouvel, and Piazza del Sopramuro. In particular, the project consists of 

hollowing the artificial terrace in order to let people walking along the huge travertine 

blocks of the Etruscan walls that bear the square, as it used to be. The pedestrian path 

reaches the acropolis heart underneath an innovative roof energy gallery, made of steel 

and glass. 

Method: 

The research concept is characterized by an innovative and experimental approach, that 

also involved the use of technological advances. These allowed to unveil the exact location 

of the Etruscan walls as well as designed a sustainable architectural project. The first 

phase of the research, based on a specific historical investigation, focused on an 

exhaustive archaeological and architectural survey of the square and its surroundings. 

Advanced techniques ranges from video-endoscopies to georadar, together with laser 

scanner and standard surveying techniques. 

Result: 

The collected data as well as general purposes and particular needs, suggested two 

synergic actions: the first one, concerning the town planning, resulted in an underground 

archaeological gallery designed by a research group in the Department of Civil and 

Environmental Engineering of the University of Perugia. The second action, concerning 

instead the architectural design, produced a glazed energy roof, designed by Coop 

Himmelb(l)au from Wien, leaded by Wolf D. Prix, and Heliopolis 21 from Pisa. 


The innovative spatial configuration of the energy roof is the research result on the best 

performance. Geometric analysis and modeling were applied through scripting design in 

order to optimize the helical form, for both structural and power generation purposes. A 

challenging task was in fact to design an energetic self-sufficient complex. Moreover, this 

advanced and original design process has been fundamental to conceive a virtual “sky”, in 

a deeply historic centre such as the Perugia’s. In fact, the Wolf D. Prix’s research, carried 

out since the 1960s, resulted in culturally sustainable project, in spite of its absolutely 

contemporary character. Or maybe, it was because of that. 

Keywords: historic centre, contemporary architecture, environmental and cultural 

sustainability. 

Corresponding Author: Paolo Belardi 

Tel. 0755853782 

Fax. 0755853786 

e-mail: belardi@unipg.it 

Address: Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile e Ambientale, Università degli Studi di Perugia 

Via Duranti, 93 06125 Perugia 


165 



From Wayfinding to Waysharing: 

interaction/information/interactivity for existing hospitals 

F. Bianconi (a), S. Andreani (a) 

(a) University of Perugia 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The research aims to improve the wayfinding strategies and the spatial cognition in 

existing hospitals. Wayfinding has always been a complicated task to deal with, 

particularly in public places. Common opinion is that finding the way simply concerns the 

series of artifacts useful for reaching a certain destination. However, to be aware of the 

right path to follow is a more complex process. This study explores innovative wayfinding 

strategies in large hospitals, adopting a human-centered approach. 

Method: 

The project is the result of an articulated process that originates from the analysis of the 

current wayfinding systems as well as the psychological aspects concerning emotional 

stress and orientation problems in hospitals. A specific case study, field visits and 

interviews are exploit to both have a broader comprehensions of the argument and 

advance design solutions. 

Result: 

The presented research takes San Giovanni Battista Hospital of Foligno (Italy) as a case 

study for applying innovative solutions to improve the spatial cognition and current 

wayfinding systems in existing hospitals. The study experiments new systems for creating 

multi-level interactive networks, involving the relations between hospital users and 

innovative technologies. The result is an original design, an overlapping of experimental 

techniques and human relationships. 


The research develops an innovative approach for increasing the identifiability of hospitals 

as architectural emergences, as well as the wayfinding strategies within them. Interaction 

design and human relationships are integrated, so as to go over the common wayfinding 

principles and create a hybrid concept: waysharing. 

Keywords: interaction design, wayfinding, healthcare design, complex networks 

Corresponding Author: Stefano Andreani 

Tel.: +39 075 5853787 

Fax.: +39 075 5853786 

e-mail: andreaniste@gmail.com 

Address: Via Duranti 93, 06125 Perugia (Italy). 


166 



Design time and time architecture 

P. J. Juan Gutiérrez (a) 

(a) Universidad de Alicante 

Abstract: 

Undoubtedly the way in which we inhabit a building is different from the way we use an 

object, especially as far as timing is concerned. Although we are part of the architecture 

the same way that objects are our most immediate and artificial extension, they are 

(usually smaller than that of an architectural construction) those who construct 

discontinuously our intratemporality. 

This communication, through the proposed analysis, demonstrates the importance of 

knowing (and therefore understand) the time scale that defines and enables our objects. 

Only through the tool that is the consciousness of his reality we will be able to get to 

optimize our designs in order that our intentions are expressed through our objects. 

Keywords: Time, Design, Architecture, SANAA 

Corresponding Author: Pablo Jeremías Juan Gutiérrez 

e-mail: pablo.juan@ua.es 

New materiality: digital fabrication and open form 

Notes on the Arbitrariness of Architectural Form 

and Parametric Design. 

C. L. Marcos (a) 

(a) Departamento de Expresión Gráfica y Cartografía. Escuela Politécnica Superior. 

Universidad de Alicante 

Abstract: 

Digitally conscious architectural design is founded on the assumption that computer tools 

should modify architecture’s own language, not just the way architects must work. 

The idea of open form is the result of producing encoded designs, that is: geometry is 

defined parametrically and codified in a non material language instead of being imposed 

over materiality –drawings or physical models- as is characteristic to architectural design 

tradition. A parametric design is open in as much as it defines a topological model where 

the connectivity between the parts and their relation to the whole generates a typology of 

possible designs limited by the range of parameters involved. Some parallels can be drawn 

with Eco’s idea of open form referring to some artistic production of the second half of the 

XX century. 

The increased complexity that can be achieved with new design tools has often led to a 

banal formalism inconsistent with architecture’s own tradition. The baroqueness of recent 

167 




digital designs is confronted with the aesthetics of simplicity established by Modernism 

derived from its constructive principles. As Tafuri or Moneo pointed out, and recently 

Eisenman has proved with his own architectural production, there is a certain degree of 

arbitrariness in architectural form. However, architectural sense must rely on the 

principles of utility and construction. Thus, arbitrariness of architectural form should not 

be confused with arbitrariness of architectural design; it just refers to the fact that the 

complexity inherent to architecture may not optimize the relation between form and 

function. Thus, a variety of different architectural forms may well suffice the use 

requirements for each project. 

Digital tools have improved the potential of architectural design thus broadening 

architecture’s role and providing the apparatus to explore geometries and constructive 

systems that would have been unimaginable decades ago. C.A.D./C.A.M. tools are 

beginning to produce extraordinary synergies in the context of complexity. Digital 

fabrication is the logical extension to digital design as it relies on the computers’ precision 

and their potential to manage complexity in varied ways, shifting from construction to 

manufacturing. 

The aim of this paper is to analyse the relation of open form and digital fabrication. 

Conceptually, it will address what has been referred to as new materiality understood as 

the constructive logic intrinsic to materials and new fabrication techniques. New 

materiality may articulate an architectural constructive logic as stated by Milizia in the 

XVIII century and new digital fabrication techniques. 

Keywords: New Materiality, Open Form, Parametric Design, Digital Fabrication, 

Arbitrariness 

Corresponding Author: Carlos L. Marcos 

Tel.: (34) 965 903 400 (ext. 3188) 

e-mail: carlos.marcos@ua.es 

New key factors in drawing up a building 

M. Valiente López (a), T. Gil López (a), E. Martínez Borrell (a), I. Anta Fernández (a) 


Abstract: 

When we draw up a building we are using our personal way of approach to architecture. 

We are interpreting the building. We must do a detailed study of the object: construction, 

structure, ... 

Drawing by computer is widely used in the architect community, more and more the 

architects’ studio and ateliers demand the professional who collaborates in the tasks of 

production and drawing of the architectonic planes, with more knowledge in the 

computer drawing. Lately the introduction of the presentations in three dimensions and 

multimedia causes the professional to get knowledge on these means and their use. 


168 



Nevertheless, the virtual pads introduce a fundamental concept in drawing up plans or 

plan survey. But a problem exists, to access to the virtual graphical representation without 

the necessary maturity in the field of the Architectonic Presentation. 

We must think that independently of the used technique it is very important to know the 

aim a priori that is wanted to obtain, since this one is the only mean to obtain it. For that 

reason, a constructive understanding of the architectonic work is advisable, before 

realising any representation of it, and based on it, we will choose the more suitable 

technique of representation. 

It is for that reason that seems so important to us to make an analysis of the drawing up a 

building and its problems. 

From the Madrid Politecnic University, we must begin to stimulate the new forms to 

express the architecture, imaginary or constructed, and to express with a clear and 

concise language our work, so that we pruned to show from different points of view our 

finished work or process of creation. 

Consequently, we must try to balance the feeling of using such a powerful means for 

designing as those based on computing techniques with the intrinsic value of the graphic 

means based on the traditional manual ones. We consider it is the best approach for using 

the new technologies. 

Keywords: Innovative Methods in Design, Representation Systems, Geometric Analysis, 

Simulation and Virtual Approaches, Building information modeling 

Corresponding Author: Mercedes Valiente López 

Tel.: +34696782221 

Fax.: +34913367597 

e-mail: mercedes.valiente@upm.es 

Address: General Álvarez de Castro nº 23 - 28010 Madrid. Spain. 

Architecture = Design? 

The increasingly strong link between 3D modeling 

and automated manufacturing 


M. Capone (a) 

(a) University of Naples Federico II, Architecture, DICATA 

Abstract: 

3D models have always been used to study and control complex shapes. The Luca Pacioli's 

vacuous models and Gaudi's funicular polygon are the best way to study geometry and to 

represent complex architecture. The 3D digital model offers advantages over the 

traditional material model, in fact it is able to simulate the perceptive dimension, to verify 

structures, but we can build from it, prototypes or architectural components too. The 

relationship between digital model and construction is very close, now we can produce 

169 



prototypes, models or elements of construction using CAM technology, CNC systems or 

rapid prototyping. Development of these tools is increasingly approaching Architecture to 

Design not only regard on the forms, but regard on the design method. The new tools are 

profoundly changing the processes of design and construction and the boundaries 

between architecture, engineering and production methods are increasingly blurred. To 

examine the relationship between 3D modelling (real or digital models) and production 

methods, in our research we rebuilt 3D models of some very different study cases in 

which the relation between the real model, digital model and the construction of 

building's components are reversed. 

Keywords: Free-form geometry, CAD\CAM, Digital fabrication, 3D modeling, Reverse 

Modeling. 

Corresponding Author: Mara Capone 

Mara Capone 

Tel.:+39 0812538446 

Fax.:+38 0812538406 

e-mail: mara.capone@unina.it 

Address: via Tarsia 31, Naples 

Wayfinding on public spaces: the UPV case 

J. Gonzalez-del-Rio (a), O. Ampuero-Canellas (a), B. Jorda-Albiñana (a) , J. I. Rojas-Sola (b) 

(a) Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas. Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (Spain). 

(b) Universidad de Jaén (Spain). 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The purposes of this paper is to introduce a wayfinding project developed for the 

Universidad Politécnica of Valencia and to describe its characteristics based on a literature 

review. 

Method: 

For this, a review of the literature has been carried out and seven requirements of any 

wayfinding project have been extracted (utility, durability, esthetics, economy, legibility, 

reproducibility and uniformity). These requirements have been applied to the study of the 

university’s wayfinding project. 

Result: 

The basic principles governing the wayfinding project were analyzed, as well as some of 

the actions taken. 


The implementation of the requirements for good wayfinding allows a better 

understanding of the decisions taken and the principles in which a wayfinding program is 

based. 


170 



Keywords: Wayfinding, Case study, Urbanism, Graphic design. 

Corresponding Author: Jimena Gonzalez-del-Rio 

Tel.: +34 963877067 

Fax.: +34 963877958 

e-mail: jimena@mag.upv.es 

Address: Camino de Vera s/n. 46022 Valencia (Spain). 

The drawings design realized by parametric computer systems 

G.Garzino (a), M. Lo Turco (a), M. Vozzola (a) 

(a) Politecnico di Torino, Dept. of Building Engineering and Territorial Systems – D.I.S.E.T. 

Abstract: 

The parametric computer graphic systems adoption, meant as dialogue and interaction 

tool among the various operators of the building construction, is based (since the first 

phases of the preliminary project) on the management of a unique database related to the 

various actors of the design process. This leads to an able to interact with the various 

actors of the project according to a deductive logic of it. The virtual model performs both 

to geometric and to semantic level, operating to interact both the formal knowledge and 

the technological one. At this regards, great opportunity is therefore given by the chance 

to build, through the Drawing, a very complex model, susceptible of investigations that go 

further the cognitive searching traditionally connected to representation's field. 

This particular feature implies that computer drawing has not only to be considered the 

communication language but the opportunity and the means to search for the truth and 

the overall accuracy of the design idea. This is basically the weld between “what” and 

“how”: and the distinction is not between draw (understood as thing's physiognomy's 

developer) and project (meant as forecasting of the thing itself), but the draw becomes at 

the same time a trial and an instrument. 

The paper includes some professional experiences, aiming to explain the adoption and the 

implementation of BIM (Building Infomration Modeling) methodology, developed through 

the cooperation between the Building Service of the Politecnico di Torino and the 

Department of Building Engineering and Territorial Systems (DISET) of the same university. 

Other case studies are developed by the same authors of the paper through the 

collaboration between some Italian professionals and DISET researchers. 

Keywords: Building Information Modeling, Representation, Architectural design 

Corresponding Author: Giorgio Garzino 

Tel.:0039-0110905336 

Fax.: 0039-0110905399 

e-mail: giorgio.garzino@polito.it 

Address:corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24 – 10129 Torino Italy 


171 



Bioclimatic passive designs rural buildings 

I. Cañas (a), P. Núñez (b), S. Martín-Ocaña (a) F. R. Mazarrón (a) J.L.García-Grinda (a) 



(b) Universidad de Alcalá de Henares 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

In this paper the evolution of the bioclimatic architecture is explained from the existing 

relation between climate and construction in the vernacular architecture, happening 

through the appearance of the term of bioclimatic architecture in the sixties, to the 

present time. 

Method: 

The two bioclimatic charts used by architects appear: Olgyay and Givoni´s, and its use to 

establish the strategies of design for each climate. Next a review of these strategies of 

design is done, explaining its operation and the climatic conditions in which its use is just. 

The explanations come accompanied from images that help to understand the mechanism 

of performance of each strategy. 

Result: 

On the strategies is insisted of design of simple incorporation in the building and low cost 

because it is to give bases for the bioclimatic construction of rural buildings 


It is known that traditional rural buildings used strategies to take advantage of the factors 

the climate in which they were located, obtaining the conditions required for their 

process. Starting off of this hypothesis, it is wanted to transfer these present strategies to 

rural buildings and to incorporate other that we know after the bioclimatic study from the 

building and the environment. 

Keywords: Architectural desing, Bioclimatic architecture, Design strategies, Traditional 

architecture. 

Corresponding Author: Ignacio Cañas Guerrero 

Tel.:+34913365767 

Fax.:+34913363688 

e-mail: ignacio.canas@upm.es 

Address: E.T.S.I.Agrónomos. Departamento de Construcción y Vías Rurales. Avenida Complutense 

s/n. 28040 Madrid. 


172 



Digital modelling and representations: 

Design and works by Riccardo Morandi and Sergio Musumeci 

G. Curti (a), B. Polimeni (a), S. Raschi (a) 

(a) Università degli Studi Mediterranea Reggio Calabria Facoltà di Architettura 

Abstract: 

Purpose: 

The purpose of this abstract is as a contribution to research on the representation of flat 

or variously shaped curves. The study is focused on the ability to model surfaces with 

traditional CAD systems. 

Method: 

The analysis is focused on the possibility of determining the morphological configurations 

of architectural coverings and other structures by means of the traditional, CAD, 

instruments. 

Result: 

The characteristics of the architecture are highlighted by a process which starts from the 

""pure form"" and arrives at the completed, built structure. 


Our approach requires that a special focus be given to the works of R. Morandi and S. 

Musmeci who used shaped surfaces for particular architectural structures in various ways. 

Keywords: Digital modelling, representation techniques, traditional CAD systems, ruled 

surfaces, minimal surfaces. 

Corresponding Author: Gabriella Curti 

Tel.:334-6698169 

Fax.:0965-3222235 

e-mail: gabriella.curti@unirc.it 

Address:Contrada Melissari-Feo di Vito (RC). 

Computer modeling 

to document architecture and for use in design prefiguration 

M. R. Cundari (a), G. C. Cundari (a) 

(a) Department of Civil Engineering of the University of Salerno 

Abstract: 

This paper focuses on the use of computer modelling in two cases of design prefiguration. 

The first involves the possible enhancement and conversion of the old monastery of San 

Bernardino in L’Aquila, the second the possible renovation of a former ATAC bus depot in 


173 



Rome as part of a more general urban enhancement and conversion project. The first 

project involves architectural restoration; the second involves the redesign of an 

interesting industrial building. In both cases the paper focuses on the use of computer 

modelling in design prefiguration. The first involves the possible enhancement and 

conversion of the old monastery of San Bernardino in L’Aquila, the second the possible 

enovation of a former ATAC bus depot in Rome as part of a bigger urban enhancement 

and conversion project. The first project involves architectural restoration; the second 

involves the redesign of an interesting industrial building. In both cases modelling involved 

a survey of the existing structures and only later the 3D restitution of the new design 

project. 

This procedure – involving separate modelling for the existing structure and the new 

design – gives the latter an added value insofar as the ATAC bus depot is currently being 

demolished, at least partially, as part of the urban enhancement and conversion plan. This 

underscores the added value of a model in any requalification process of our building 

heritage. 

Keywords: Modelling, Survey, Project 

Corresponding Author: Maria Rosaria Cundari 

Tel.: 0030.089.964208 

e-mail: m.cundari3@studenti.unisa.it 

Address: Via Ponte di Don Melillo, 00084 Fisciano, Salerno. 

Computer modelling based on 

integrated survey techniques and to document architecture 

C. Cundari (a) 

(a) Department of History, Drawing and Restoration of Architecture “Sapienza” University of Rome 

Abstract: 

Original This paper focuses on two studies documenting two monumental complexes 

(Verlasce in Venafro and the archaeological complex of San Vincenzo al Volturno, both in 

the province of Isernia) using several different measuring techniques: direct, topographic, 

photographic and electronic survey. In both cases the model was created using the 

acquired measurements and laser scanner “points clouds”. The models were used to 

verify all the measurements as well as create the most “realistic” “representation” and 

documentation of the surveyed objects. 

Keywords: Survey, Modelling, Representation. 

Corresponding Author: Cesare Cundari 

Tel.:00.39.6.49916114 

Fax.: 00.39.6.49916841 


174 



e-mail: cesare.cundari@uniroma1.it 

Address: Via Scarpa, 16 – 00161, Roma, Italy 

Digital Modeling in architectural analysis 

for training engineers to building design 

M. La Mantia (a) 


Abstract: 

The Architectural Design course at the Faculty of Engineering of the University Sapienza of 

Rome, has as its goal is learning the methods of graphic representation that the 

development of analytical skills for understanding and knowledge of architecture. Then 

through the learning of techniques, procedures and methods of the architectural 

modeling is the ability to amplify spatial conception of the student. Starting from data 

metric, infographic from the documentation made available to it and having understood 

the process of construction of the architecture under investigation in the prior realization 

of a model material, the student acquires the ability to develop a three-dimensional digital 

model with which to communicate effectively the different architectural components 

(formal, historical, structural, functional, etc...). The methodology provides for the joint 

application in computational steps of the process: 

1) Implementation of the geometric model for the analysis of volumes and spaces; 

2) Application of textures and materials for a pseudo-realistic visualizzaione 

3) Context. 

Knowledge of three-dimensional modeling results, so in a useful and powerful instrument 

for market development, representation and communication of the building process and 

the building itself, with which the engineer may, in the right direction, as well as expand 

its planning potential. 

Keywords: Digital Design, Modelling, Analysis of the architecture, Representation 

Corresponding Author: Mariella La Mantia 

Tel.: 00.39.6.49916116 

Fax.: 0039.6.49916841 

e-mail: archmariella@gmail.com 



175 



The digital model 

in the documentation of architectural elements 

L. Carnevali (a) 


Abstract: 

Among the elements that complement the buildings also include those made of wrought 

iron that are carrying out different functions: delete, beak, bells, lanterns, etc. . The 

communication anticipate some results of a study addressed to the documentation of the 

works in wrought iron to complement the architecture. Considering the evolution of the 

process over time, based on archival records and the importance of the works themselves, 

it is possible to produce the corresponding computer models that are useful to document 

the construction aspects as well as those of perception. 

Keywords: Documentation, Survey, Protection heritage, Wrought-iron works 

Corresponding Author: Laura Carnevali 

"Tel.: 00.39.6.49916894 

Fax.: 00.39.6.49916841 

e-mail: laura.carnevali@uniroma1.it 



176 


List of Authors 

A. A. Ammar ................................... 52 

A. Adán-Oliver.............................. 145 

A. Álvarez ..................................... 101 

A. Angilica ...................................... 28 

A. Ballu ........................................... 94 

A. Baschiera ................................... 36 

A. Bass ............................................ 14 

A. Benamara ............................ 50; 91 

A. Carofalo ..................................... 44 

A. Cerardi ............................... 96; 112 

A. Ceruti ......................... 56; 107; 108 

A. Collignan .................................. 106 

A. Donoso .................................... 102 

A. E. Morabito .................... 43; 44; 75 

A. E. Uva ................................... 24; 67 

A. Fernández ................................ 152 

A. Fernández Sora ............ 17; 55; 133 

A. Finneran .................................. 130 

A. G. F. Gibb ................................. 130 

A. G. González Rodríguez ............. 102 

A. Giordano .................................. 128 

A. González Rodríguez ................. 102 

A. L. Romera Zarza ....................... 132 

A. Lanzotti ................................ 20; 86 

A. Liverani .............................. 56; 107 

A. López ............................... 151; 153 

A. López-Tercero .......................... 146 

A. M. García Lorca ....................... 152 

A. M. Manferdini ........................... 19 

A. M. Trallero Sanz ....................... 146 

A. Mancuso .................................. 113 

A. Manuello Bertetto ................... 105 

A. Marín Palma ............................ 146 

A. Mozas ...................................... 153 

A. Naddeo ...................................... 18 

A. Nocerino .................................... 62 

A. O. Andrisano .................. 54; 59; 85 


177 

A. P. Merina ......................... 142; 160 

A. Pagliano ................................... 125 

A. Paoli ..................................... 69; 74 

A. Pellegrino .................................. 62 

A. Ramos ...................................... 120 

A. Riel........................................... 129 

A. Ristevich .................................. 128 

A. Robert ....................................... 33 

A. Román ..................................... 136 

A. Serrano Tierz ............................. 17 

A. Spezzaneve .............................. 114 

A. T. Mozas .................................. 151 

A. V. Razionale ......................... 69; 74 

A. Vanacore ................................... 20 

A. Vergnano ....................... 54; 59; 85 

A. Viciana ..................................... 152 

A. Zompì ........................................ 95 

B. Álvarez ..................................... 101 

B. Callejero Cornao ........................ 55 

B. Defez ............................. 24; 71; 99 

B. Jorda-Albiñana ........................ 170 

B. Louhichi ..................................... 91 

B. Messina ................................... 148 

B. Motyl ......................................... 57 

B. Polimeni .................................. 173 

B. Ramos ...................................... 136 

B. Vazquez ..................................... 68 

B. Yannou ...................................... 50 

C. Anido ....................................... 101 

C. Bandera ..................................... 57 

C. C. Perucho ....................... 142; 160 

C. Cundari .................................... 174 

C. D’Oria ........................................ 18 

C. Falchi ....................................... 105 

C. Favi ............................................ 58 

C. García Hernández ............ 130; 133 

C. L. Marcos ................................. 167 


C. Melgosa ................................... 136 

C. Monteleone ............................. 139 

C. Porras Amores ......................... 143 

C. Porras-Amores ......................... 145 

C. Rocco ......................................... 62 

C. San Antonio ............................. 150 

C. San Antonio Gómez ................. 153 

C. Vernier ....................................... 33 

C. Zoido .......................................... 71 

D. Barattin ...................................... 27 

D. Blumenthal ................................ 60 

D. Boddi ....................................... 100 

D. Francia ......................... 56; 84; 107 

D. Gutiérrez ................................... 16 

D. Saba ........................................... 74 

D. Scaravetti ................................... 52 

D. Teissandier ................................ 93 

D. Tumino .................................... 116 

E. Aliouat ........................................ 60 

E. Baños ....................................... 136 

E. Bonisoli .................................... 110 

E. García ....................................... 136 

E. García Martínez ....................... 146 

E. González .................................. 152 

E. Lluna .......................................... 99 

E. Lombardo ................................... 82 

E. Manferdini ................................. 19 

E. Marchis .................................... 159 

E. Martínez Borrell ....................... 168 

E. Molero ..................................... 158 

E. Montiel .................................... 115 

E. Pezzuti ........................................ 26 

E. Rovida ...................................... 131 

E. Sentana .............................. 15; 137 

E. Vezzetti ...................................... 95 

E.B. Blázquez .......................... 17; 157 

F. Aguilar ...................................... 151 

F. Belloni ...................................... 156 

F. Bianconi ................................... 166 

F. Bruno ................................... 28; 47 

F. Brusola ....................................... 99 

F. Brusola Simón ............................. 32 


178 

F. Chiementin .............................. 128 

F. De Crescenzio ............ 77; 119; 135 

F. Di Monaco ............................... 110 

F. Gherardini .................................. 85 

F. Giménez Alcaide ........................ 71 

F. Hermosilla ................................ 157 

F. I. Cosco ...................................... 28 

F. J. Aguilar .................. 152; 153; 155 

F. J. Castillo ............................ 17; 157 

F. J. Espinach Orús ......................... 17 

F. Julián Pérez ................................ 17 

F. Leali ................................ 54; 59; 85 

F. Lucchi ................................. 77; 135 

F. Mandorli .................................... 76 

F. Manzano Agugliaro .................. 153 

F. Mozas Martínez ....................... 149 

F. N. Gimena ................ 124; 131; 148 

F. Patiño Barbeito .......................... 28 

F. Patiño Cambeiro ........................ 28 

F. Persiani .............................. 84; 108 

F. Pini ............................................. 59 

F. R. Mazarrón ............. 143; 145; 172 

F. Rosa ......................................... 131 

F. Villecco ...................................... 62 

G. C. Cundari ................................ 173 

G. Cacopardo ................................. 82 

G. Caligiana .................... 56; 107; 108 

G. Concheri ................ 36; 40; 96; 121 

G. Curti ........................................ 173 

G. de los Galanes ......................... 146 

G. Defranco ........................... 78; 128 

G. Fatuzzo ................................ 82; 99 

G. Fernández San Elías ................ 132 

G. García ...................................... 101 

G. Lo Buglio.................................... 82 

G. Mangano ................................... 98 

G. Monno ................................ 24; 67 

G. N. Massai................................. 134 

G. Osorio-Gomez ........................... 51 

G. Pearce ..................................... 118 

G. Peris Fajarnés ........ 24; 32; 66; 142 

G. Peris-Farjarnés .......................... 71 


G. Romero .............................. 71; 118 

G. Savio .................... 40; 96; 112; 121 

G. Sequenzia ............................ 82; 99 

G. Sergio ........................................ 82 

G.Garzino ..................................... 171 

H. N. Lê .......................................... 94 

I. Anta Fernández ......................... 168 

I. C. Guerrero ....................... 142; 160 

I. Cañas ........................................ 172 

I. Cárdenas Anguita ...................... 149 

I. Fernández ......... 151; 152; 153; 155 

I. Friso .......................................... 126 

I. Goicoechea Castaño ................... 28 

I. Ladrón de Guevara ..................... 17 

I. Lengua Lengua............... 32; 99; 142 

I. Lidón López ................................. 17 

I. Lopez ......................................... 103 

I. Sentana ............................... 15; 137 

Ignacio Cañas ....................... 143; 145 

J. A. Cañas Madueño ................... 159 

J. A. Flores Soto ............................ 143 

J. A. Simoes .................................. 120 

J. Alonso Trigueros ....................... 132 

J. C. Asenjo ................................... 150 

J. C. Rubio Romero ....................... 130 

J. Cerqueiro .............................. 35; 92 

J. Cid Falceto ................................ 143 

J. Delgado ............................ 151; 155 

J. F. Petiot ...................................... 60 

J. Felez.................................... 71; 118 

J. G. Negreiros ...................... 152; 155 

J. Gimenez López ............................ 32 

J. Gonzalez-del-Rio....................... 170 

J. Grandjean ................................... 93 

J. H. Xin .......................................... 83 

J. I. Prieto López ............................. 28 

J. I. Rojas ........................................ 16 

J. I. Rojas-Sola ........................ 34; 170 

J. J. López ..................................... 148 

J. Javier López .............................. 124 

J. Jiménez ....................................... 17 

J. L. Caro Rodríguez ........................ 42 


179 

J. L. Giménez López ..................... 142 

J. L. Pérez ..................... 151; 153; 155 

J. López Soto .................................. 42 

J. M. Chacón ................................ 102 

J. M. Gomis Martí .......................... 45 

J. M. Sanz ....................................... 16 

J. M. Sieffermann .......................... 60 

J. M. Valderrama Zafra ................ 149 

J. Maroto ....................................... 71 

J. Martínez García ........................ 153 

J. Ortiz ............................................ 68 

J. P. Nadeau ................................... 52 

J. P. Pernot ..................................... 47 

J. Pailhes ...................................... 106 

J. Pose ...................................... 35; 92 

J. R. Andrés .................................. 158 

J. Sánchez Reyes ............................ 46 

J. Sancho Val .................................. 55 

J. T. Fan .......................................... 83 

J.L. Benito .................................... 145 

J.L.García-Grinda ......................... 172 

K. François Xavier .......................... 52 

L. A. Lopresti .................................. 78 

L. Barbieri ...................................... 47 

L. Bifulco ...................................... 128 

L. Carnevali .................................. 176 

L. Ciocca ....................................... 119 

L. D’Angelo .................................. 120 

L. De Napoli ................................... 62 

L. Di Angelo ...................... 41; 75; 114 

L. Dunai .................................. 24; 142 

L. Frattari ....................................... 86 

L. Fuertes ..................................... 128 

L. Giaccari ...................................... 41 

L. Gimena............................. 124; 131 

L. Governi ................................ 66; 76 

L. López .................................... 35; 92 

L. Lopresti .................................... 128 

L. M. Papa .................................... 164 

L. Martini ..................................... 164 

L. Nalbone ................................... 116 

L. Planchenstainer ....................... 112 


L. Recanatesi ................................ 107 

L. Seccia ......................................... 77 

L. Silvestri ....................................... 86 

L.Dunai ........................................... 66 

M. A. Aguilar ................ 151; 153; 155 

M. A. Contreras ............................ 158 

M. A. Hidalgo Fernández ............. 159 

M. A. Ruiz ............................. 142; 160 

M. Ángel Aguilar .......................... 152 

M. Ansaloni .................................... 54 

M. Aoun ....................................... 120 

M. Brodeschi .................................. 28 

M. C. Ladrón de Guevara ............. 157 

M. Calì ...................................... 82; 99 

M. Caneri ....................................... 36 

M. Capone ................................... 169 

M. Carfagni .................................... 53 

M. Castro-García ............................ 34 

M. Cigola ...................................... 147 

M. Crespo .................................... 131 

M. D’Anna ...................................... 98 

M. Danzart ..................................... 60 

M. Davia ....................................... 115 

M. De Giorgi ............................. 43; 44 

M. del Mar Espinosa ...................... 16 

M. del Mar Saldaña...................... 152 

M. Domínguez ............................... 16 

M. Fantini ....................... 77; 119; 135 

M. Fiorentino ........................... 24; 67 

M. Germani .......... 25; 35; 58; 76; 115 

M. Giordano ................................... 78 

M. Goñi ................................ 124; 148 

M. Heredia Conde .......................... 45 

M. Jaafarnia ................................... 14 

M. L. Gil .......................................... 68 

M. L. Ladrón de Guevara ............. 157 

M. L. Luchi ...................................... 28 

M. L. Martinez ............................. 118 

M. La Mantia ................................ 175 

M. Lo Turco .................................. 171 

M. López ........................................ 15 

M. Luz García ............................... 158 


180 

M. M. Bocconcino ....................... 134 

M. Mandolini ......................... 35; 115 

M. Marconi .................................... 58 

M. Martorelli ....................... 113; 117 

M. Mengoni ............... 25; 58; 76; 115 

M. Mesnard ................................. 120 

M. Muzzupappa....................... 28; 47 

M. Nunziati .................................... 76 

M. Olivier ....................................... 52 

M. P. Iarossi ................................. 156 

M. Palai .......................................... 66 

M. Pappalardo ............................... 62 

M. Pellicciari ...................... 54; 59; 85 

M. Pérez Vázquez .......................... 45 

M. Peruzzini ................................... 25 

M. R. Cundari ............................... 173 

M. Rizzi ........................................ 120 

M. Tlija ........................................... 91 

M. Toccafondi ................................ 66 

M. Trotta ................................. 20; 86 

M. Turchetto ............................... 112 

M. Valiente López ........................ 168 

M. Vezzani ................................... 100 

M. Vitali ....................................... 159 

M. Vozzola ................................... 171 

M. W. Fu ........................................ 61 

Mª. P. Carranza-Cañadas ............... 34 

N. Cappetti .................................... 18 

N. D. Perkinson ............................ 118 

N. de la Puente .............................. 16 

N. Ortigosa .................................... 66 

N. Ortigosa Araque ........................ 24 

N. Sesse ....................................... 137 

O. Ampuero-Canellas .................. 170 

O. D. de Cózar ................................ 17 

P. Belardi ..................................... 164 

P. Bust .......................................... 130 

P. Cicconi ....................................... 35 

P. D’Agostino ............................... 148 

P. Darnis ........................................ 94 

P. Di Stefano .......................... 75; 114 

P. Franciosa ..................... 70; 86; 117 


P. Gonzaga ........................... 124; 131 

P. Ibáñez Carabantes ..................... 55 

P. J. Juan Gutiérrez ...................... 167 

P. Kiciak .......................................... 46 

P. Manco ........................................ 43 

P. Nicolas ....................................... 52 

P. Núñez ....................................... 172 

P. P. Valentini ................................. 26 

P. R. López Para ............................. 42 

P. Sanin ........................................ 138 

P. Sebastian ......................... 104; 106 

P. Sébastian ................................. 109 

P. Stephane .................................... 52 

P. Ubieto Artur ..................... 130; 133 

P. Y. Mok ........................................ 83 

R. Ambu ....................................... 105 

R. Briand ...................................... 109 

R. E. Hidalgo Fernández ............... 159 

R. Furferi .................................. 53; 76 

R. Gaha........................................... 50 

R. García ....................................... 150 

R. Mejia-Gutierrez ....................... 138 

R. Meneghello .... 36; 40; 96; 112; 121 

R. Miralbes ................................... 103 

R. Nobile ........................................ 44 

R. Prádanos .................................... 16 

R. Raffaeli ....................... 76; 112; 115 

R. Rebollar Rubio ........................... 17 

R. Rosa ........................................... 91 

R. Viganò ................................ 51; 131 

S. Andreani .................................. 166 

S. Bagassi ....................................... 84 

S. Barba .......................................... 78 

S. Barone ........................................ 69 

S. Ceccacci ...................................... 25 

S. Filippi .................................... 27; 57 

S. Gavino ...................................... 128 

S. Gerbino ................................ 70; 86 

S. Giancane .................................... 43 

S. Giovanzana .............................. 121 

S. Gomes ........................................ 33 

S. M. Oliveri ............................. 82; 99 

S. Martínez .................................... 68 

S. Martín-Ocaña .......................... 172 

S. Moos .......................................... 95 

S. Morillas ...................................... 66 

S. Patalano ..................................... 86 

S. Raschi ....................................... 173 

S. Rizzuti .................................. 62; 91 

S. Roth ........................................... 33 

S. Samper ....................................... 93 

S. Tichkiewitch ............................. 129 

S. Tornincasa ............................... 110 

T. Boudouh .................................... 33 

T. Gil López .................................. 168 

T. Ingrassia ............... 82; 98; 113; 116 

T. Magal ......................................... 71 

T. Magal Royo ........................ 32; 142 

T. Quirante .................................. 104 

T. Rego ........................................... 68 

V. A. Lokhov ................................. 120 

V. Dattoma .................................... 43 

V. Delos.......................................... 93 

V. Dupé ........................................ 109 

V. M. Santiago ............................... 66 

V. Nigrelli ......................... 82; 98; 116 

V. Ricotta ..................................... 116 

V. Rufrano ...................................... 86 

V. Santiago ..................................... 71 

V. Santiago Praderas ............... 24; 99 

W. L. Chan ..................................... 61 

X. Fischer ..................................... 109 

Y. L. Kwok ...................................... 83 

Y. Ledoux ......................... 93; 94; 104 

Y. Nyashin .................................... 120 

Y. Volpe ................................... 53; 66 

Y. Y. Wu ......................................... 83 


181

IMProVe 2011 - Proceedings

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