wireframe model
During the whole geometric modeling process, mathematical operations are at work which can be easily stored as computerized data and retrieved as needed for review, analysis, and modification. There are different ways of displaying the same data on the CRT screen, depending on the needs or preferences of the designer. One method is to display the design as a two-dimensional (2D) representation of a flat object formed by interconnecting lines.
Another method displays the design as a three-dimensional (3D) representation of objects.
In 3D representations, there are four types of modeling approaches:
• Wireframe modeling
• Surface modeling
• Solid modeling
• Hybrid solid modeling
A wireframe model is a skeletal description of a 3D object. It consists only of points,
lines, and curves that describe the boundaries of the object. There are no surfaces in a
wireframe model. Three-dimensional wireframe representations can cause the viewer some
confusion because all of the lines defining the object appear on the 2D display screen. This
makes it hard for the viewer to tell whether the model is being viewed from above or below,
inside or outside.
Emory W. Zimmers, Jr. and Technical Staff
Enterprise Systems Center
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Mechanical Engineers’ Handbook: Materials and Mechanical Design, Volume 1, Third Edition.
Edited by Myer Kutz
Copyright 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
