A computer-aided design geometry that defines the internal volume of an object, not just its surface boundaries. Because it contains material data, engineers can use it to calculate weight, center of gravity, and moments of inertia. It is the prerequisite for running finite element analysis or generating toolpaths for CNC machining.
Heard on the job
Send the machine shop the solid model so they can program the five-axis mill.
Also heard as
- 3D model
Related terms
Explicit modeling
A direct computer-aided design approach where geometry is created and modified without a history tree.
Implicit modeling
A CAD technique that defines 3D geometry using continuous mathematical functions rather than boundaries.
FEM
The finite element method, a numerical technique for solving complex engineering problems.