Cognitive Design uses three geometry formats in workflows: FRep (Implicit), BRep (CAD), and Mesh. Each format serves a different purpose depending on the stage of the workflow: generation, modification, simulation, or export to CAD.

Those formats are visually represented with “nodes” that are points which let’s you connect components together. Those nodes use a color indication to tell the format as well as a descriptive input/output text.

For instance, cyan is for BRep, orange for Mesh, and dark pink for FRep, like illustrated below:

FRep (Function Representation / Implicit Geometry)

An FRep is a mathematical function f(x,y,z) that returns the signed distance to the surface. It defines geometry implicitly and does not store vertices or faces.

Characteristics

• Core Type: Implicit, continuous, resolution-independent.
• Structure: Defined by a rule evaluated anywhere in space, rather than stored as faces and vertices.
• Precision: Exact at any scale; not limited by tessellation.
• Boolean Behavior: Extremely robust. Combining bodies cannot fail, however complex or self-intersecting they are — which is what makes automated, unattended workflows possible.

Best For

• Generative design
• Boolean modeling
• Smooth geometry deformation
• Simulation-driven design
• Automated workflows where reliability is critical