Parasolid

GISBox is a one-stop 3D GIS data editing, conversion and publishing platform that supports editing in multiple GIS formats such as OSGB/GEOTIFF/RVT, converting to 3DTiles/Terrain and publishing.

Introduction

Parasolid is a core technology of Siemens for accurate geometric modeling that is widely used in the fields of 3D computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). It also plays an important role in GIS (Geographic Information System) processing of complex spatial data scenes involving high-precision 3D terrain, building models, etc. It stores and exchanges accurate geometric information of 3D models in a neutral file format, providing strong support for data interaction between different software.

Data Format Overview

There are mainly two types: .x_t (text format) and .x_b (binary format).

1. .x_t (text format)

Features: stored in ASCII text, with clear structure, including file header, model data, topological relationship and geometric details.

Advantages: strong readability, easy to edit and debug manually.

Disadvantages: large file size and slow processing speed.

2. .x_b (binary format)

Features: stored in binary form, compact data.

Advantages: small file size, fast reading and writing speed, suitable for efficient processing.

Disadvantages: cannot be read directly, requires special tools to parse.

Pros

1. **Comprehensive functions: **supports solid, surface, and free-form surface modeling, covers Boolean operations, feature modeling and other tools, provides rendering and data query functions, and meets complex design needs.
2. **Strong compatibility: **supports STEP, IGES and other formats, XT files realize cross-platform data sharing, and adapt to multiple CAD systems.
3. **Mature ecology: **integrated with mainstream software such as Siemens and Dassault, authorized more than 200 suppliers, more than 2 million users, and high data compatibility.
4. **Stable and reliable: **With fault-tolerant geometry processing capabilities, it can handle inaccurate data and ensure system stability.
5. **Flexible expansion: **modular design, supports independent operation, and is easy to integrate into third-party software.

Cons

1. **High learning threshold: **complex functions, advanced functions such as parametric modeling require time to master.
2. **High resource consumption: **complex calculations take up more resources, and performance may decrease when processing large assemblies.
3. **Assembly modeling limitations: **voxel splicing is inconvenient to operate, and it is difficult to intuitively express free-form surface shapes.
4. **Complex structure: **C language development leads to unclear architecture, which increases the difficulty of development and maintenance.

Application Scenario

In projects combining GIS and urban planning, the Parasolid file format can be used to store and transmit high-precision 3D models of urban buildings. These models not only contain the outline of the building, but also are accurate to details such as doors, windows, and balconies, providing an accurate data basis for urban landscape analysis, sunlight analysis, and ventilation simulation. With these data, planners can optimize the urban space layout in a virtual environment and improve the scientificity and rationality of urban planning.

Example

1. Geometry model in Parasolid XT file format.

2. Parasolid with Convergent Modeling.

Related GIS files

LYR

MID

MDB

QLR

References

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parasolid
2. https://plm.sw.siemens.com/en-US/plm-components/parasolid/