Today, many software "plug-ins" have been developed on high-level D modelling platforms to facilitate processes such as FEM
analysis, CAM, injection mould design, simulation and visualisation. Such an arrangement is advantageous in many ways. However,
it is not without shortcomings. Ideally, these "plug-ins" could also be developed using low-level 3D kernels for higher flexibility
and better
... [Show full abstract] portability. This paper examines the various issues and methodologies related to the development of such 3D-based
applications. The emphasis is placed on the software aspect. First, a methodology for the development of 3D-based applications
is proposed. The idea is then implemented by developing an injection mould design application using a low-level 3D kernel
called Parasolid. Based on design concepts used in an established mould design application, IMOLD, the development of a mould
base design module is illustrated. An object-oriented programming language has been chosen for the development of the software
on a Windows NT platform.
