Abstract
Mesh data is extensively used in CAD/CAM applications to approximate three-dimensional (3D) solid models. The STL file format is one of the key file formats for 3D data transfer in modern manufacturing systems. STL files, however, retain no topological information, which would have been beneficial for subsequent file analysis and manipulation. The ability to extract geometric features from mesh data enables automation and facilitates process planning. This paper describes how geometric primitives may be reconstructed from mesh data by simple heuristics. A case study is presented, and a discussion is made on possible applications.