Geometric kernel

Geometric modeling package (also called a geometric kernel) – a set of libraries with an application-programming interface (API), which allows using the functionalities of geometric (for instance, solid body) modeling.

Many leading CAD-systems (such as CATIA, Pro/E, NX) are based on their own geometric kernels (CGM, GRANITE and Parasolid accordingly), while others (SolidWorks, T-FLEX, ADEM, etc.) are built on the licensed geometric kernels. Popular commercial kernels (used in most CAD) are Parasolid (produced by UGS, now - Siemens PLM Software), ACIS (produced by Spatial Corp. – a subsidiary of Dassault Systemes) and GRANITE (PTC). Open CASCADE kernel is freely distributed in an open source.

Typical functionality of a geometric modeling package is to present a set of programming interfaces (data structures, functions and classes) in order to create an application for wireframe, surface, solid body or non-multiform modeling. Usually relational interfaces are grouped in modules, which include:

• Base types and operations,
• Typology modeling,
• Geometric objects and operations with them,
• Boolean operations and surface editing operations,
• Removing invisible lines and rendering,
• Modules for reading and recording geometric files in popular formats.