tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-309826132024-03-16T00:32:55.150-07:00Inventor TalesWelcome to my small blog documenting my trials and tribulations with Autodesk Inventor, Vault, and Showcase. Not to mention the occasional off topic ramblings of a geek 'geeking out'.Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.comBlogger701125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-87741332008468523862023-06-30T10:12:00.003-07:002023-06-30T10:12:31.486-07:00Why Combine Two Different Radii Fillets in One Feature? - Food for Thought for Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Once upon a time, I was asked, in reference to Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Fusion 360, "Why would someone want to have a fillet feature with more than one radius in it?" </span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WU0B0fqtVOFYxRQIf7dApFdAJTBtyIVxW2x6yLfnlk2GoR0S7chSW5-hulcB-uW_8jUsYpHq6bv21CewMxKpShNYhlhx_hPBQqGUfYPD83jLba6NtcELn21qT342sn6gY2rAA6isviSMYZM4h37X9syqhD3WRMc_HczX_u_LTAd4AFAQ66s1Dg/s500/Fillet%20Feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WU0B0fqtVOFYxRQIf7dApFdAJTBtyIVxW2x6yLfnlk2GoR0S7chSW5-hulcB-uW_8jUsYpHq6bv21CewMxKpShNYhlhx_hPBQqGUfYPD83jLba6NtcELn21qT342sn6gY2rAA6isviSMYZM4h37X9syqhD3WRMc_HczX_u_LTAd4AFAQ66s1Dg/s320/Fillet%20Feature.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An example of two different fillet radii in Fusion 360</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">It's a fair question. It's likely we can pick a feature in just about any CAD tool and ask, "Why is that there?"</span></p><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-wrap: wrap;">
But to that end, I did have a reason one might want to combine two different fillet radii in one feature.
It's a matter of organization. In my design work, I often find myself modeling O-ring grooves, which nearly always have a different radius at the top and the bottom of the gland. Having the ability to combine the different radii in the same feature allows me to combine the fillets into a "O-ring Radius Feature", and maybe shave down the feature tree a little bit. </span></span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-wrap: wrap;"><br /></span></span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-wrap: wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXXHCwrjuT8alZM51SAl3-SdMzUDIwoxnq0fqzj-SsNgvnhd4cvz1WeZ5Jry3GHD8xWMmgklQPKl81C5f03kP4XYWC1ZbqfqhpzzZFlDho8gx2ciWXh00fX8APqsnAuUOtQSezumGUQ0EgoJ083-w0MB-EFwmT4ww9e8xyJEtF0o7SWp5B7zEow/s984/o-ring%20radius%20feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="984" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXXHCwrjuT8alZM51SAl3-SdMzUDIwoxnq0fqzj-SsNgvnhd4cvz1WeZ5Jry3GHD8xWMmgklQPKl81C5f03kP4XYWC1ZbqfqhpzzZFlDho8gx2ciWXh00fX8APqsnAuUOtQSezumGUQ0EgoJ083-w0MB-EFwmT4ww9e8xyJEtF0o7SWp5B7zEow/s320/o-ring%20radius%20feature.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />An O-ring groove using two different radii fillets in the gland.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<br /></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAnfft66XD_yZKVvAF2swBn5WRjbEmiWZaSnjmkPeK3wDrj9DECQNvvVh5xugsAKC6tBWoljZpWrUGnAwE9FyFaZ7wy6LHipbX2TD6-IfT9j4g7x4djXgk8NlHxXiZCUKarmp8DCHCJ5k8rMDgTPNu2CWXVufmZjvYNv6d7MQB8MM2Re_dMd6bHA/s892/O-ring%20hero%20shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="892" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAnfft66XD_yZKVvAF2swBn5WRjbEmiWZaSnjmkPeK3wDrj9DECQNvvVh5xugsAKC6tBWoljZpWrUGnAwE9FyFaZ7wy6LHipbX2TD6-IfT9j4g7x4djXgk8NlHxXiZCUKarmp8DCHCJ5k8rMDgTPNu2CWXVufmZjvYNv6d7MQB8MM2Re_dMd6bHA/s320/O-ring%20hero%20shot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><br />O-rings installed in the glands.<br />Just to give some context to the first image.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-wrap: wrap; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-wrap: wrap; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Another case I've used was way back when I was designing sheet metal tooling. I used it when "keying" a rectangular insert. In that example, the opening has 3 radii of one size, and the fourth is a different radius. The insert has chamfers of a similar size. This prevents the insert from being inserted in the wrong direction. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Why fillets on the opening and chamfers on the insert? It was easier to machine with the tooling of the time!</span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-wrap: wrap; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-wrap: wrap; user-select: text;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-size: 14px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiab4_x3fCWPySkbg76b0lbB_ZrTLxbY31pJzTeHCsOalPKMRImH9oGBRowMHnpWjpMP9jeQsXaPv5oNOfE8xe9XjDHv7tb1AwuDmHCS9cOXdCLpagUbDEWZbkXOG7x3FRz8R5Tt2kCv2NXB4GHhucTR7t89C_OMirmttKwJiTnQM0Kz_qc-fOSg/s1140/Full%20insert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="1140" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiab4_x3fCWPySkbg76b0lbB_ZrTLxbY31pJzTeHCsOalPKMRImH9oGBRowMHnpWjpMP9jeQsXaPv5oNOfE8xe9XjDHv7tb1AwuDmHCS9cOXdCLpagUbDEWZbkXOG7x3FRz8R5Tt2kCv2NXB4GHhucTR7t89C_OMirmttKwJiTnQM0Kz_qc-fOSg/s320/Full%20insert.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An example of a sheet metal stamping insert</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0oZwc_8Vaqn8JFJTH4lR10eSNRAas5WuFmeynr4xwlTG4KQQO2FeNOVh9rLI6qD90BC-ufy5loMv8mmcjrf4wZ8mpcho4g9fJWDqS0Krxzr49_4dVBv4b_wAGy2UJ3QgtdPue-ciuxVk3ZdSbyDywjD-d1tAnb1ZUOtJ0ruvtUNdNAY4uP2H4Q/s690/Highlighted%20insert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="474" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0oZwc_8Vaqn8JFJTH4lR10eSNRAas5WuFmeynr4xwlTG4KQQO2FeNOVh9rLI6qD90BC-ufy5loMv8mmcjrf4wZ8mpcho4g9fJWDqS0Krxzr49_4dVBv4b_wAGy2UJ3QgtdPue-ciuxVk3ZdSbyDywjD-d1tAnb1ZUOtJ0ruvtUNdNAY4uP2H4Q/s320/Highlighted%20insert.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The"keying" feature up close. </span></div><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Admittedly, these two example are very specific to my own design experience. But perhaps it might give someone food for thought. </span></pre><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-wrap: wrap; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;">
While you might not run into one of these particular examples I've described, maybe there will be something similar that you can use.
Is it life changing? Not very likely. But maybe it's a little food for thought as you make your way through the 3D CAD world. </span></pre>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Buena Park, CA, USA33.8674044 -117.99813875.5571705638211526 -153.1543887 62.177638236178844 -82.8418887tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-72219104902873356032023-05-29T08:08:00.000-07:002023-05-29T08:08:19.652-07:00 Drilling for Truth - Implied Drill Tolerance<p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">First, I have to start with my big disclaimer. </span></p><pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">While I've had experience with drawing standards, I don't consider myself a full blown expert. There is so much detail in standards, I can't say I'm an authority on all of them.
Also, living in the United States, I work in the ANSI/ASME standards.
My apologies to those who are living the ISO life (which is basically everyone who isn't the United States), I'm only acquainted with that standard.
So this post will be based on "freedom units", that is feet, inches, and bald eagles.
Joking aside, I hope this post is entertaining at least. Onward to the post.
My current place of employment has a lot of legacy drawings. It's not uncommon to find a scanned drawing from the 1970s in our data management system.
It's like digital archeology!
One of the things I find can be a big challenge, and very interesting, is interpreting dimensions, notes, and callouts that have fallen out of favor over the years.
Recently I was part of a discussion regarding a hole callout on one of these old drawings.
The callout stated "Drill" and called out a specific drill size. In the case of the screen capture shown below, the drill size called out is a #30 drill, which is .1285 inches in diameter. But even the diameter is called out as a reference dimension.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbr3ZYyRkGArpgHtN3jWcDgSgvnR6KyF17P9fT4zMjQfbxBn4OxfttjJL_pnieEoyTRjxOmigpZ3i-5doRraZMCZ_qe_ZEA8VHevLXV318H1hALlGCPNqdIRvjAuwTNPwDItS-iTEwZKsUb5oBWN90bz1cGKtY48vUwbIib6GNFYsfb_h0vrQ/s1101/01-drill%20legacy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1101" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbr3ZYyRkGArpgHtN3jWcDgSgvnR6KyF17P9fT4zMjQfbxBn4OxfttjJL_pnieEoyTRjxOmigpZ3i-5doRraZMCZ_qe_ZEA8VHevLXV318H1hALlGCPNqdIRvjAuwTNPwDItS-iTEwZKsUb5oBWN90bz1cGKtY48vUwbIib6GNFYsfb_h0vrQ/s320/01-drill%20legacy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The really interesting thing about this callout is that it implies it's own tolerance, in accordance with AND10387.
The tolerances are based on the size of the drill, and a screen capture is shown here from <a href="https://www.engineersedge.com/manufacturing/drill-mechanical-tolerances.htm" target="_blank">Engineers Edge</a>. You can even see that it has a link to AND10387
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqWJEhJoVHi-o7DKg0V6v_eI5HslSAOxnjvi5dFelBpeZGK38YcPBEqDvVq4ECLiz_Ue2x6Z6LhecoX2vgCfvDOH3gtGsF3Sozs9nNGxu39sf9jAiDJDLdqoEsu1Af-BJ4P6q3fpP2d2xdez_kNfZBlsdt7sOP3OGgsVcJebdmi6HW1myHlM/s729/02-drill%20tolerance.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="729" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqWJEhJoVHi-o7DKg0V6v_eI5HslSAOxnjvi5dFelBpeZGK38YcPBEqDvVq4ECLiz_Ue2x6Z6LhecoX2vgCfvDOH3gtGsF3Sozs9nNGxu39sf9jAiDJDLdqoEsu1Af-BJ4P6q3fpP2d2xdez_kNfZBlsdt7sOP3OGgsVcJebdmi6HW1myHlM/w400-h256/02-drill%20tolerance.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />
But now comes a plot twist.
According to <a href="http://everyspec.com/AND_SPECS/AND10387_REV-6_NOTICE-1_6279/" target="_blank">Everyspec</a>, AND10387 was cancelled for new design and is only used for "replacement purposes". No new standard is shown to supersede this one.
So what does that mean?
I wasn't able to find a specific standard that states specifically how to handle drilled holes now. But my experience has taught me that, if required, a tolerance will be implicitly stated next to the dimension. If no tolerance is stated with the dimension, then the block tolerance will be used.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrHvb-3OavTFue7ug5wZHAxTA-XUCyoct-QQCyuA9-_z6Yw-N5jhBA5xg_wiXfMd1YEIwo13fStB_a5DstwCBaI76_TWvZIcNkXIPkFyEcjdHOuCCS0MnYjex7zpUcx0I86XqTRUVbkq35ogrodB2Vy0fmodB7ETQJFg7_PQ_ZlAgpqSTzxU/s959/03-Drill%20Tolerance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="959" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrHvb-3OavTFue7ug5wZHAxTA-XUCyoct-QQCyuA9-_z6Yw-N5jhBA5xg_wiXfMd1YEIwo13fStB_a5DstwCBaI76_TWvZIcNkXIPkFyEcjdHOuCCS0MnYjex7zpUcx0I86XqTRUVbkq35ogrodB2Vy0fmodB7ETQJFg7_PQ_ZlAgpqSTzxU/s320/03-Drill%20Tolerance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A hole with the tolerance implicitly stated</span></td></tr></tbody></table>
Since AND10387 is only valid only for replacements, there's a good chance you may never see a drawing with an implied drill tolerance. But there's always a chance an old drawing will rise from the depths. So perhaps it's a good reference to keep in the archives!
And if anyone is aware of a standard that calls out standard drill tolerances, or if you just "do it another way", feel free to leave a comment.</span></span></pre>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-66660574819211739842023-02-06T09:59:00.006-08:002023-02-06T13:07:44.808-08:00Lessons from a Mentor, a Quarter Century Later<p> Sometimes, a lesson learned from long ago comes to pass. </p><p>Recently I was working on a project that required I transfer the location of four threaded holes to a piece of aluminum so clearance holes could be drilled. The question was, how to do it? </p><p>Sure I could measure out the holes, but the threaded holes were t-nuts pressed into plywood, and the holes for the t-nuts were measured using a tape measure. So the hole placement was made to more of a carpentry accuracy than an aerospace tolerance. But I still wanted to keep the clearance holes as tight as practical.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhinjyVcWt4xogDbhZPRyBpI1bBWvhjH4sf5sUhrrj-C57U2FvNCWyYJHsg9RX-dx4vzNyyQXM0-szmcSfz9cbH0mpP4_SEvWbIFZkvp354to0urIMZWQzr5M5jSDFTmsHX9y_51XXMSk278q8aDWcbczqGLG6HHIjrXEIpmg-C-G1J4Uzkx8/s568/T-Nut.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="568" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhinjyVcWt4xogDbhZPRyBpI1bBWvhjH4sf5sUhrrj-C57U2FvNCWyYJHsg9RX-dx4vzNyyQXM0-szmcSfz9cbH0mpP4_SEvWbIFZkvp354to0urIMZWQzr5M5jSDFTmsHX9y_51XXMSk278q8aDWcbczqGLG6HHIjrXEIpmg-C-G1J4Uzkx8/s320/T-Nut.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 3D model of the T-nut that was pressed into Plywood<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>But I remembered watching an old tool maker when I was a young engineer fresh out of college. And if you haven't guessed by the title of this post, that was about 25 years ago.... Ouch. </p><p>He showed me a "threaded hole transfer punch". It's a small tool that stores threaded screws that look almost like set screws. However they have points in them instead of the hex that one would expect from a set screw. </p><p>I had my solution! I placed an order with <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/3385A16/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr for the punch I needed</a>, and I had it in my hands the next day. </p><p>They're screwed into the holes you need to transfer. You then position the workpiece that requires the holes, give it a quick strike with a hammer. And now you have marks where you need to drill. </p><p>Then it's off to the drill press to drill the holes you need. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Tf_MWE7Vl1iQrOHR5ExINyFygzf6aJsXm9d1e2toYJDY_o3-Xckx7zOpNW1l8Uy0uRUeDCMaytnbsprXlnGwOljSIsAWi0k94wnLGZRMxNPjNc9WiRANsJoJiwIN52DUtQ_NEl-54ABKMICvUYX1PUO5G_iVmYuFyUM-etmLA0rKPa6NrBo/s4032/20230203_145215.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Tf_MWE7Vl1iQrOHR5ExINyFygzf6aJsXm9d1e2toYJDY_o3-Xckx7zOpNW1l8Uy0uRUeDCMaytnbsprXlnGwOljSIsAWi0k94wnLGZRMxNPjNc9WiRANsJoJiwIN52DUtQ_NEl-54ABKMICvUYX1PUO5G_iVmYuFyUM-etmLA0rKPa6NrBo/s320/20230203_145215.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The transfer punch tool and two of its inserts.<br />The inserts are stored inside the tool. <br />The tool also doubles as a wrench for the inserts.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNZtO8c_9lugOeXRy3ifHxS05RkTzmhNnMWpTigZghoYAr9_DmIT35cidaHDGene_3WlzM1EBoJYOjatGB-MfMQBJo6F9yU2gAKO5p4BzyXCDpWSoCrgXZ3eZERyxo93d7VJhuNbj1dpTPiLsac9Xb1srZ69AHVD8tVuVGmuP2JQJ8vkRqMM/s4032/20230125_114131.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNZtO8c_9lugOeXRy3ifHxS05RkTzmhNnMWpTigZghoYAr9_DmIT35cidaHDGene_3WlzM1EBoJYOjatGB-MfMQBJo6F9yU2gAKO5p4BzyXCDpWSoCrgXZ3eZERyxo93d7VJhuNbj1dpTPiLsac9Xb1srZ69AHVD8tVuVGmuP2JQJ8vkRqMM/s320/20230125_114131.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The transfer punch with two punches threaded into the T-nuts</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5qv3SRMXLLnVotG_egwmZLlVWJA7XY5OaTGsTkwGBEDwRB4fehBg_wwnN7_aUIErCP18YwteuKCyOBY79ljX1AxOzUBqstZ4nD1pBbsGqH187f2nebgf5yF_ekZvhNTrv93INJVflcXapLcVtW9VPhHW94CZA7vOacB2Rf9JDM6F8B8uJ_Y/s4032/20230203_145223.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5qv3SRMXLLnVotG_egwmZLlVWJA7XY5OaTGsTkwGBEDwRB4fehBg_wwnN7_aUIErCP18YwteuKCyOBY79ljX1AxOzUBqstZ4nD1pBbsGqH187f2nebgf5yF_ekZvhNTrv93INJVflcXapLcVtW9VPhHW94CZA7vOacB2Rf9JDM6F8B8uJ_Y/s320/20230203_145223.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The marks left in the aluminum from the punches.<br />I'm afraid I didn't get a chance to get a picture of the drilled holes.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Using the tool that old die maker showed me, in the way he showed me how to use it, I had the holes I needed in no time flat. The whole process took about fifteen minutes. And that includes walking to another building where the drill press was kept! </p><p>That's a lot quicker than trying to match the holes by measuring it out. </p><p>And, in a strange case of deja vu, a young intern looked over my shoulder and asked me, "How did you mark those holes?"</p><p>So it was my turn to pass along the lesson I learned 25 years ago from an old die maker about the "threaded hole transfer punch". </p><p>Other than sharing a cool story, what's the lesson? <br /><br />I would say to look for those small mentoring moments that can sometimes come from the most unexpected places. It might be from someone on the shop floor, an analyst in the corner of that dark office, or a program manager who's "been there and done that". </p><p>A lesson can be learned in a few minutes can take years to pay off. But when it does, it can be a life saver! </p><p>Wow, that lesson was twenty five years ago.... Thinking of that I'm suddenly overcome by the urge to yell at some kids to get off my lawn....</p><div><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p></div><div><br /></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-29093460812493210022023-01-11T19:41:00.000-08:002023-01-11T19:41:08.482-08:00Running Stress Simulations on a World War 2 Era Part<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EgOn-hVdoADNd5Rao7sUoKEcR6BQKEihII_wSMREdbnt4RA9u0VZSKj6jUuwITlkC5qMcwlQNmmrFVbOQJVwkdJaMNHsYuL4BBYi8xj-2vMBYdvuYHsw5Y5KwrqNZFIve7TFRggFDo8YhmBa01Hx_0-_UUrHhqtuYlAlmrQF0Lp9YOgo_ZI/s960/P51%20SpamCan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EgOn-hVdoADNd5Rao7sUoKEcR6BQKEihII_wSMREdbnt4RA9u0VZSKj6jUuwITlkC5qMcwlQNmmrFVbOQJVwkdJaMNHsYuL4BBYi8xj-2vMBYdvuYHsw5Y5KwrqNZFIve7TFRggFDo8YhmBa01Hx_0-_UUrHhqtuYlAlmrQF0Lp9YOgo_ZI/s320/P51%20SpamCan.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> I've been using Fusion 360 to model parts from World War 2 era parts It's a project I enjoy on the occasional evening and weekend. <p></p><p>But some time ago, someone asked me, "Have you ever run a Stress Analysis Simulation on one of those parts?" </p><p>It seemed like an interesting challenge. What would a part designed in the 1940s look like when tested with a modern Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tool. </p><p>So I decided to fire up the Simulation module in Fusion 360, and set up a stress test to see how a component I'd modeled would hold up. </p><p>The part I decided to use was for a P-51 Mustang, made by North American Aviation. </p><p>The part itself is the body for a "Hydraulic Landing Gear Uplock Timing Valve". I decided I'd see how Fusion 360's simulation tools would analyze this old component. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBl6vn2OOL-pG0W3BP_Z1cTVGOO6GVuLm657AJgliVSkmzogYa9FaUF1t6ZdRcsdWC1XJEHBBpURIkY-piUlMiSvbDETofcwRqgr-y3tchQsyulGAJIHV-kdVBX1GY_mxxFiJkw_HdOBYFTv68yniQ7dMA7faoWAwR0g64gudIJ5Fs6iqKic/s926/Valve%20Assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="926" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBl6vn2OOL-pG0W3BP_Z1cTVGOO6GVuLm657AJgliVSkmzogYa9FaUF1t6ZdRcsdWC1XJEHBBpURIkY-piUlMiSvbDETofcwRqgr-y3tchQsyulGAJIHV-kdVBX1GY_mxxFiJkw_HdOBYFTv68yniQ7dMA7faoWAwR0g64gudIJ5Fs6iqKic/s320/Valve%20Assembly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>First, I set the material. The print listed the material as "24ST", which is a designation now obsolete. However the new equivalent is 2024. So I created that material in Fusion 360's material library, and applied it to the part. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5bW6jrjbJqothFuawDM2e5ws2ybs8ji6KpTpQW5UIj2a2D_tf1z3yXOdpM5ESHkesxz9ygRVrB0ku0M5eNRw8ZUUloI8yCKqfmQhiFZeJxxDl0pvHeUVTnncOejEs90tgvWKfrCQh05SHzJnMxZBEH8OraPb-ppWxuTklHhsemeXkMWjcC8/s1501/Title%20Block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="1501" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5bW6jrjbJqothFuawDM2e5ws2ybs8ji6KpTpQW5UIj2a2D_tf1z3yXOdpM5ESHkesxz9ygRVrB0ku0M5eNRw8ZUUloI8yCKqfmQhiFZeJxxDl0pvHeUVTnncOejEs90tgvWKfrCQh05SHzJnMxZBEH8OraPb-ppWxuTklHhsemeXkMWjcC8/w400-h104/Title%20Block.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An excerpt from the print.<br />The 24ST aluminum bar can be seen in the material column</td></tr></tbody></table><p>First, I needed to figure out what pressure I would be testing for. Based on the document I found <a href="http://courtesyaircraft.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/images_aircraft_profiles_P-51_2.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>, the P-51 has a "low pressure 1000psi system". That comes out to about 69 bar in the metric system. </p><p>For my test, I'll double that by applying a pressure of 2000 psi (138 bar). I'm using that as my burst pressure for this housing. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EDmud6dpgGwGQAdNWg2yFm7PQ6J_1YrPK3C2ivNnw3Ox0z8VIqp3D5gY9cJ99W9KjIN69qL4V27dbIKdiltzRLOSh-tiBWfZiIGA_wm0HViTv3SVFj4T2ytCTa06mItL0or7vnWUwM-f3Kt4Qh-uASPJiuDCwhdrQ4jWi-fYduyIjH7Ik14/s1083/P-51%20Pressure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="1083" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EDmud6dpgGwGQAdNWg2yFm7PQ6J_1YrPK3C2ivNnw3Ox0z8VIqp3D5gY9cJ99W9KjIN69qL4V27dbIKdiltzRLOSh-tiBWfZiIGA_wm0HViTv3SVFj4T2ytCTa06mItL0or7vnWUwM-f3Kt4Qh-uASPJiuDCwhdrQ4jWi-fYduyIjH7Ik14/s320/P-51%20Pressure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>As for fixing the part, I used the two mounting holes in the housing. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJMSc6PPQJcwtr38syl16zQKytyXpXWoA-gcLO-wdf8GS7hGWq4pR6p9nOr2itjuDnP8Pjg6QUrjViJcb157EDS9tkbEgut5s50wAXjWca8BMKRsDZxxvyz5LcA_8Cbq5jCBP-8Ut0_47L1RQEbjnRT96HHQX0c7pZov8ajbHs0sd0icI7RM4/s1300/P-51%20Fixed%20constraint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="1300" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJMSc6PPQJcwtr38syl16zQKytyXpXWoA-gcLO-wdf8GS7hGWq4pR6p9nOr2itjuDnP8Pjg6QUrjViJcb157EDS9tkbEgut5s50wAXjWca8BMKRsDZxxvyz5LcA_8Cbq5jCBP-8Ut0_47L1RQEbjnRT96HHQX0c7pZov8ajbHs0sd0icI7RM4/s320/P-51%20Fixed%20constraint.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>With all that said and done, it was time to fire the simulation off into the cloud and wait for the results. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3DTUaByUhnyjdYvc81nUFW8c5XjRTMD738pE7PXkLI3sj5cezvA17VtJeq5Zr4D6xvBJfi5SOulgjRWOSZNPr3cFSPcMOj96rTP5d9vEB2r1uWv-WPt8dk4DbmCK071L3wnP4KETxeEawIY2IRtcXqjmJCaYUwpZSAzM22OBysMMwWsFDS0/s1369/Results.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="1369" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3DTUaByUhnyjdYvc81nUFW8c5XjRTMD738pE7PXkLI3sj5cezvA17VtJeq5Zr4D6xvBJfi5SOulgjRWOSZNPr3cFSPcMOj96rTP5d9vEB2r1uWv-WPt8dk4DbmCK071L3wnP4KETxeEawIY2IRtcXqjmJCaYUwpZSAzM22OBysMMwWsFDS0/w400-h216/Results.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>All I can say that in the engineering parlance, I'd call this part "hella strong". Even at double the expected operating pressure, the minimum safety factor is about 4.5!</p><p>Assuming my analysis setup is good, the part is probably overbuilt and could be optimized to save weight. </p><p>So why didn't the engineers at North American spend more time reducing weight? <br /></p><p>That I can only speculate on. </p><p>But there are some things to consider. The body was created without the benefit of simulation tools. Add the fact North American Aviation was designing this aircraft in the middle of a war, one can probably see how not every part is optimized as much as it could be.</p><p>Add to that, the part measures about 3in x 1-1/8in x 1-5/16in (76mm x 29mm x 33mm), Even though weight is important in aircraft, optimizing this part probably wasn't a high priority considering it's small size. </p><p>So there we have it! A P-51 Mustang part analyzed in Fusion 360. It was a fun exercise to see what stresses on this part would look like when analyzed on a modern tool!</p><p>Happy modeling! </p><p>Jon</p><p>Acknowledgements:</p><p>P-51 Mustang print available from <a href="https://aircorpslibrary.com/" target="_blank">AirCorps Library</a></p><p>P-51 Mustang picture takien at <a href="https://www.planesoffame.org/" target="_blank">Planes of Fame Air Museum</a></p><p><br /></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Whittier, CA, USA33.9791793 -118.0328445.6689454638211529 -153.189094 62.289413136178844 -82.876594tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-6077504827823956572022-12-20T19:00:00.001-08:002022-12-20T19:00:25.851-08:00Why I chose to use Autodesk Fusion 360<span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkruFj_sZwdTbdrU9NX7XWK03tYuqMiXrT3Ogb-cjATwNVSRsBJx3ewgLJNpulo6Nx5x_eZXvLCHtBxOfz18kjPsK1aKQnBJTmX-_ajUQBo-6DbFiyDYrOsBntaOx3tgjxoFMlVIrx62e5MWaGJaGzsMMo4WvCrVwvgVI5J_wJsQTqzScDqQ/s1365/Iso.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="1365" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkruFj_sZwdTbdrU9NX7XWK03tYuqMiXrT3Ogb-cjATwNVSRsBJx3ewgLJNpulo6Nx5x_eZXvLCHtBxOfz18kjPsK1aKQnBJTmX-_ajUQBo-6DbFiyDYrOsBntaOx3tgjxoFMlVIrx62e5MWaGJaGzsMMo4WvCrVwvgVI5J_wJsQTqzScDqQ/w200-h138/Iso.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of a Hydraulic Valve for <br />a P-51 Mustang<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Recently, I was asked why I used Autodesk Fusion 360 for my side project of modeling vintage aircraft parts. Why not use Autodesk Inventor? Or Dassault Solidworks?<br /></span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Sitting down one evening, I decided to take a few moments to share my thoughts.
These reasons are purely my own, as one guy cranking out models on evenings and weekends. I'm not an evangelist proclaiming my choice is better than yours. It's just that, my choice. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Also, I do pay for a Fusion 360 subscription. I chose to take advantage of one of the promotions a few years back. I know this is likely still a hot button issue for some, but in my case, I'm glad I did. I thought it was</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">important </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">that I mention that, in the interests of full disclosure.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> So, why did I chose Fusion 360? </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Accessibility</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxOheXYq8aXEAaL8_gw0KPFwR_os1ZRN67UdvWsMQzmmD6XJLj_UqBvKISw7N5VryVYyinzsS3q_RucAHqyhvE1HiDYIbhEiJeL7KL-E93ke6sAngW4qeZqjzxGf1Hs4SqscMki5f4D-DzVvHqwmu8Lv8ebXgNY3tDNVAATHiuYF-3rV2XjM/s1308/Fusion%20360%20housing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1308" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxOheXYq8aXEAaL8_gw0KPFwR_os1ZRN67UdvWsMQzmmD6XJLj_UqBvKISw7N5VryVYyinzsS3q_RucAHqyhvE1HiDYIbhEiJeL7KL-E93ke6sAngW4qeZqjzxGf1Hs4SqscMki5f4D-DzVvHqwmu8Lv8ebXgNY3tDNVAATHiuYF-3rV2XjM/w165-h200/Fusion%20360%20housing.jpg" width="165" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> A hydraulic housing in the<br />Fusion 360 mobile viewer</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> The first reason I chose Fusion 360 it's easy for me to get. Yes. It's as simple as that.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Even if I chose not to subscribe, there's a free version that covers most of what I would choose to do.
Sure, there's a cost associated with my subscription. But my cost for a yearly subscription is less than I'd spend on a weekend snowboarding.
So for me, it's worth the expense to indulge my hobby.<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Sure, there are probably ways I could get an educational copy of Inventor or Solidworks. Some are probably above board, others, more "gray market". </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">At least in this case, I don't have to worry about stepping on anyone's</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">EULA (End User license Agreement). </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Capability</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">As far as bang for the buck. Fusion 360 does everything I need to do, plus more.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Most of what I do is currently limited to the parts, assemblies, and drawings. I haven't delved into the manufacturing or simulation space.
But it's good to know I can do it should the time come!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I have used Fusion 360 to create *stl files for 3D printing and dxf files for a waterjet (<a href="http://www.inventortales.com/2022/08/blog-post.html" target="_blank">see that post here</a>), and overall, I've been happy with the results.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">One thing I really like is the way Fusion 360 models threads. More than once I've been able to 3D print a usable thread out of Fusion 360.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguol3CG0mJMaThL7GuwlP0p-59IEi6c3Hk3L27GP1wiFNd9XDA3NLqjeq_XJTxZ4ZZNGuN9gqtx9ta1axz9iPJfV4qLWn-sOKa1U-X9jlllqtVq7W5UfwTuvfKUfAsyefjiJTLiETYu5Cq2Q__ZfS6OP1GWBw8Y78dQy-fcrwT1qosIt9gF-s/s2048/Part%20with%20fitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1668" data-original-width="2048" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguol3CG0mJMaThL7GuwlP0p-59IEi6c3Hk3L27GP1wiFNd9XDA3NLqjeq_XJTxZ4ZZNGuN9gqtx9ta1axz9iPJfV4qLWn-sOKa1U-X9jlllqtVq7W5UfwTuvfKUfAsyefjiJTLiETYu5Cq2Q__ZfS6OP1GWBw8Y78dQy-fcrwT1qosIt9gF-s/s320/Part%20with%20fitting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 3D print created with Fusion 360.<br />The fitting is threaded into 3D printed threads.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Ease of Administration</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I've configured installations for Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Vault, and to a lesser degree, Solidworks. All these tools are incredibly powerful. But with that, comes a great deal of setup and configuation.
Where are the templates placed? How are you configuring your data management system? When you upgrade, what's your migration strategy? What are you using for a server?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">For Fusion 360, the server is on the cloud, so there's no data to move when it's time to update hardware. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">When I purchased a new laptop, I installed Fusion 360 on my new computer, logged into my account, and had instant access to all my designs.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There was no need to migrate files or remap file locations. It was already there.
In about an hour's time, I was up and running.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>In Summary</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">In conclusion there isn't much, really. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">My big reasons why I chose Fusion 360. It works for me!
Does that mean it would work for you on whatever projects you're working on? Maybe, maybe not!
That's for you to decide. And whichever way you decided to go, happy 3D modeling!
</span></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Whittier, CA, USA33.9791793 -118.0328445.5502806965882705 -153.18909399999998 62.408077903411723 -82.876594000000011tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-91999174956343617042022-08-15T21:21:00.001-07:002022-08-15T21:21:25.742-07:00Using Fusion 360 to Create Parts for a B-17 Restoration<p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjZOpcPr7biowScsRIIzkKJSTdq0g3EvMJ7VzEbynF0fg4iEXyEj1hb3aTGTzjZe4DB2Qy4QFxVPAejjDvN-eFpSsqIOlZLEdFuPLjgnjvo_QeTdCdMG7JYRiZAUt9SHSKAb5v5128aRTo33Ldi8lpKKxQoDSUScuvm9Tjc1gDLFDBwq8YjU/s1101/Scrubbed%20print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="1101" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjZOpcPr7biowScsRIIzkKJSTdq0g3EvMJ7VzEbynF0fg4iEXyEj1hb3aTGTzjZe4DB2Qy4QFxVPAejjDvN-eFpSsqIOlZLEdFuPLjgnjvo_QeTdCdMG7JYRiZAUt9SHSKAb5v5128aRTo33Ldi8lpKKxQoDSUScuvm9Tjc1gDLFDBwq8YjU/s320/Scrubbed%20print.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A portion of the original print used to <br />create the model.</td></tr></tbody></table> For many years, I've created models in Fusion 360. On occasion, I've 3D printed a few of my Fusion 360 models as "desk ornaments". <br /></p><p>But a few weeks ago, I had a fantastic opportunity to create a model that would be used to make a part for the restoration of a B-17 Flying Fortress. </p><p>The part was a "friction washer" for use in the throttle quadrant. And the team needed geometry that could be cut on a water jet.</p><p>It started with a reproduction of the original Boeing print. Having the original dimensions made the modeling easy. It was interesting to note that even though standards have changed in the nearly 80 years since that print was created, it's not too different from the prints I work with today. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiccs1LsdZ5HPE_Ng7wNXGNY11Im6t6RyKtzqteLqqi1d2wG1Yo2q1iJZR76cDkWmXzsX-iK7VRok18s2c5jlkji4WTQHPj03lQ88a1U053HTb3NBbrkgzsVe5n0K9PG04dVj5M1pjj6SsRawLjDlpsMQcxd5O6QIsAU6wQe-8KLimCfofIs2c/s776/Fusion%20360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="776" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiccs1LsdZ5HPE_Ng7wNXGNY11Im6t6RyKtzqteLqqi1d2wG1Yo2q1iJZR76cDkWmXzsX-iK7VRok18s2c5jlkji4WTQHPj03lQ88a1U053HTb3NBbrkgzsVe5n0K9PG04dVj5M1pjj6SsRawLjDlpsMQcxd5O6QIsAU6wQe-8KLimCfofIs2c/s320/Fusion%20360.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The model of the friction washer, created in <br />Fusion 360</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Next, was to place the view on a drawing. The first goal was to dimension the drawing as a way of verifying all the dimensions were correct. Second, the drawing is what creates the 2D DXF file for the water jet. </p><p>Once the drawing is created, delete any information that isn't required for the waterjet. This includes borders, title blocks, dimensions, centerlines and centermarks, etc. You might even consider creating a second page in the drawing for this purpose. </p><p>Also, make sure to save the drawing before you export. I learned the hard way when I realized that the first file I exported still had all that extra geometry. Save the file before export!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bjPzld2aITt0ve4MAc2Ddtp6z95n5orTKk-11yFtk9gy5SFN1n3mAXrZmfrMXvfHDOai_UrUOLlZy_exzAf2EaqQ9hFDssmRLO2koGszTaqn-W5RW3PyuHfm3bkHd6ONfh4ROaZtyjBqaEoHaHRTNYDXhtYWWxcYrvC9ucfjWFVXE3NKpOM/s1059/Fusion360%20dwg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="1059" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bjPzld2aITt0ve4MAc2Ddtp6z95n5orTKk-11yFtk9gy5SFN1n3mAXrZmfrMXvfHDOai_UrUOLlZy_exzAf2EaqQ9hFDssmRLO2koGszTaqn-W5RW3PyuHfm3bkHd6ONfh4ROaZtyjBqaEoHaHRTNYDXhtYWWxcYrvC9ucfjWFVXE3NKpOM/s320/Fusion360%20dwg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dxf geometry sent to the waterjet</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Once I recovered from my snag. I sent the files off to my colleague for cutting. </p><p>A few days later, we had our part and it fit perfectly, making for a very satisfying little journey. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtX0798s484swddE0Kp0JFclCMl1DQn51aIC1ba8AHR8mC9It2LP0fSpVTmTmUGhTO5eHkrzci5k33EbaQ1b_qrOQcfaCYEBJukMfUbluFkR8G9czwbnimx0ChbVHanrVRjejvYbv7_OYrNcQaWoe2zNdDjNyeo2Tn9InDjo5Pl4NSYjeoaI/s4032/20220730_114809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtX0798s484swddE0Kp0JFclCMl1DQn51aIC1ba8AHR8mC9It2LP0fSpVTmTmUGhTO5eHkrzci5k33EbaQ1b_qrOQcfaCYEBJukMfUbluFkR8G9czwbnimx0ChbVHanrVRjejvYbv7_OYrNcQaWoe2zNdDjNyeo2Tn9InDjo5Pl4NSYjeoaI/s320/20220730_114809.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMR8doOflug_uPD9Mgfkcc2BZApeZ_Ds65yMH1daUh1SZQmXAXNM6zEVloSbk4D6dKxofsUxFHv7e-h2Ico-4Qsrp25gFJiIRW9ElEnhE6m6gw4E10exOgJy8JhkLkWwIenILsOQ4bJkZb9HaXzYcrNE9ry300kJh91g3kpfBBqSkyZAMaZA/s4032/20220730_115300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMR8doOflug_uPD9Mgfkcc2BZApeZ_Ds65yMH1daUh1SZQmXAXNM6zEVloSbk4D6dKxofsUxFHv7e-h2Ico-4Qsrp25gFJiIRW9ElEnhE6m6gw4E10exOgJy8JhkLkWwIenILsOQ4bJkZb9HaXzYcrNE9ry300kJh91g3kpfBBqSkyZAMaZA/s320/20220730_115300.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIfgu7Hovtc7b-It3eWDJ11SfR3hhYcMyfiPq2GJAPabK1S7V-E_o97KNyqk-ICN89bCNe3YeCKe9HtF3MFcaVpsR3P3fbvjSpyyfLybJ4nwdW54-9E3qv8Eeh8QcQzYSg7CXlUbs7SBTcAokk4ZUvJh_fF7xP98TevCM9BawcQPVZWr0a0M/s4032/image_16894721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIfgu7Hovtc7b-It3eWDJ11SfR3hhYcMyfiPq2GJAPabK1S7V-E_o97KNyqk-ICN89bCNe3YeCKe9HtF3MFcaVpsR3P3fbvjSpyyfLybJ4nwdW54-9E3qv8Eeh8QcQzYSg7CXlUbs7SBTcAokk4ZUvJh_fF7xP98TevCM9BawcQPVZWr0a0M/s320/image_16894721.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>And while this little project was well worth a victory lap, there were three minor challenges that are worth mentioning. </p><p>1) Drawing standards have changed over the decades, and while the drawing wasn't hard to interpret, some information wasn't where I'd expect it to be. Modern 3D modelers have spoiled us. We can "slap down" a new view in seconds. For the drafters of old? Adding the simplest view would take minutes. A more complicated one? Hours. </p><p>The number of views was kept to a minimum. A part of single thickness, such as this one, will likely have the thickness dimension called out in a note. </p><p>2) Not only have drawing standards changed, industry standards have changed. That material specification called out in 1943? It's been long superseded by a new standard. It's even possible that the standard that superseded the 1943 standard has, in turn, been superseded itself. </p><p>Be prepared to spend a few minutes Googling the updated standards. Thank goodness for the internet! </p><p>3) Finally, how does one interpret the tolerances called out on the drawing? Symmetric, +/-.005 for example, is easy. Model to the nominal. But what about a tolerance such as +.010/-.000? Do you "split the difference"? Do you aim for nominal? </p><p>In my case, I decided to aim for the dimension as it was called out on the print. I figured that was the target dimension, after all. </p><p>And in my case. It worked! Fusion 360 gave me an excellent dxf file that the waterjet used with no issuee, and the part fit perfectly into its intended position. </p><p>It was a wonderful opportunity to contribute to a restoration. And a wonderful learning opportunity!</p><p>Acknowledgements</p><p>Print Reproduction via my <a href="https://aircorpslibrary.com/" target="_blank">Aircorps Library</a> Subscription</p><p>Models and drawings created in <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview?panel=buy&AID=10282382&PID=8206971&SID=jkp_Cj0KCQjw3eeXBhD7ARIsAHjssr_8ZOvTeG06Ibr2JMIhNc4-WoAaKfvYWtEM4mSgvSwJDXknr0V0DWkaAn2eEALw_wcB&cjevent=6ea9e77f1d1a11ed814f024c0a1c0e12&mktvar002=afc_us_deeplink&affname=8206971_10282382&term=1-YEAR&tab=subscription&plc=F360" target="_blank">Autodesk Fusion 360</a></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817335.5920028638211576 -153.23798299999999 62.212470536178849 -82.925483tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-26971519008555214112022-06-07T22:16:00.001-07:002022-06-07T22:16:21.636-07:00My Tool Won't Fit! A Design Lesson From Life.<p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmzo3rrJLmoFT6ov4ncW-H0X4h7OZFuhYtYRlx6dgyZN3iV8dC5XFUQioeyZoabrO99sLcoAanhH7KyknIpEXiFr-c9-jYOrz-S6KTKWI70PM1C-E6XT1xNeqO_hALTcVQJMZpdKx27eXqoema9dnBuA-9JnS6RlLRWAM0WOrIFv4qFAoKNI/s4032/Disk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmzo3rrJLmoFT6ov4ncW-H0X4h7OZFuhYtYRlx6dgyZN3iV8dC5XFUQioeyZoabrO99sLcoAanhH7KyknIpEXiFr-c9-jYOrz-S6KTKWI70PM1C-E6XT1xNeqO_hALTcVQJMZpdKx27eXqoema9dnBuA-9JnS6RlLRWAM0WOrIFv4qFAoKNI/s320/Disk.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A typical aircraft brake disk.<br />There's not much room for a socket!</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Hands on experience is often the greatest teacher. </p><p>And, while helping work on a friend's change tires on a light aircraft. </p><p>In looking at the brake disk, bolted to the tire rim, I saw that there was no way one could get a socket, the ideal tool for the job, onto the bolt. </p><p>Fortunately, my friend, having run into this case many times before, had a wrench he'd cut to fit inside the disk. So in the end, it was job that was still very easily accomplished. </p><p>But there lies a lesson for those of who sit behind a desk and design the machines we use every day. </p><p>Just because the fastener fits, doesn't mean the tool will! So when designing, think of ease of maintenance. </p><p>The maintainers, who are sometimes your customers, will thank you for it! </p><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Redlands, CA, USA34.0563884 -117.20587655.7461545638211575 -152.3621265 62.366622236178848 -82.0496265tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-19280473758216763262022-06-03T08:20:00.000-07:002022-06-03T08:20:07.859-07:00All PLA Prints the Same, Right? WRONG! I print a lot of Polylactic Acid (PLA) in the 3D printer at work. I've found it's a great material to work with. It prints easy, and generally gives great results. <div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnJW7GkIXvEQUgvTi7GuiFjJ8rzY8M5msmSGev5PsKuMft0KidorUAhABWi0HVQynArBxhvequjSHUDmBExhC4fQxDKmZonVYOteMuP8lKfIz7RVcJr9oiFgXq4Tu2IqMjWQSm_SM4GAKapq1jIvuZPPYXSCu99YnVm3nrm5VkRFkGOzX4wU/s2048/Part%20with%20fitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1668" data-original-width="2048" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnJW7GkIXvEQUgvTi7GuiFjJ8rzY8M5msmSGev5PsKuMft0KidorUAhABWi0HVQynArBxhvequjSHUDmBExhC4fQxDKmZonVYOteMuP8lKfIz7RVcJr9oiFgXq4Tu2IqMjWQSm_SM4GAKapq1jIvuZPPYXSCu99YnVm3nrm5VkRFkGOzX4wU/s320/Part%20with%20fitting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sample of a different PLA print. <br />Usually a great material to work with.<br />Sorry, the actual print is proprietary.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><div>Almost without exception, I have great results.</div><div><br /></div><div>At least until all of a sudden I start having problems with it! </div><div><br /></div><div>When printing new color, silver from Amazon the PLA started peeling off the bed. </div><div><br /></div><div>It didn't matter how much glue I put down on the bed, It would peel up after a few layers. </div><div><br /></div><div>So what to do? </div><div><br /></div><div>My first step was to try a few troubleshooting steps. </div><div><br /></div><div>First, I raised the temperature of the bed from 50 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius. No luck there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Next, a thorough cleaning of the bed with isopropyl alcohol. I definitely had a cleaner bed, but still, the problem persisted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, I found a trick that solved the problem. Move the nozzle .05mm closer to the bed. Success!</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLv1eMtBEUVBdh06LaZA5Vl5Q44Y249JE7mSPWldnj9c7bOawWGF9e-3MF1LmnXjGBpATtOphAWbyWn-n9PXW-92pAarn2fmSab-CQA26b3KzPpyvJiji0wTnUKtSyUWGgRw2-F-rjV9OzyLMuBSReZWfyS1vNBeQchYYWmZaRHNgqMuCAPA/s1680/simplify%20offset%20settings.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1190" data-original-width="1680" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqLv1eMtBEUVBdh06LaZA5Vl5Q44Y249JE7mSPWldnj9c7bOawWGF9e-3MF1LmnXjGBpATtOphAWbyWn-n9PXW-92pAarn2fmSab-CQA26b3KzPpyvJiji0wTnUKtSyUWGgRw2-F-rjV9OzyLMuBSReZWfyS1vNBeQchYYWmZaRHNgqMuCAPA/w400-h284/simplify%20offset%20settings.png" title="My Z Offset Settings" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Z setting adjustment in my slicer.<br />I moved the nozzle slightly closer to the bed.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>What is it about the silver filament? I'm not sure. But during my troubleshooting, I did notice that the gray filament did appear to be laying down a thinner layer. </div><div><br />My only guess is something with the dye used to color the filament. But that's just a wild guess. </div><div><br /></div><div>So what's the takeaway? </div><div><br /></div><div>Keep an eye on those layers, and remember that not all filament of the same material prints the same! </div><div><br /></div><div>Resources used for this post: </div><div><br /></div><div>3D Printer: <a href="https://www.fusion3design.com/fusion3-edge-3d-printer/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw4uaUBhC8ARIsANUuDjUymqo3hoZP4L0oHX4f27fO11xR8cEF9dYZg0JqO5KEDqf64Kk92ZYaAq_uEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Fusion3 F400</a></div><div>Filament: <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Printer-Filament-1-75mm-Silver/dp/B07T4X4Y8L/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=i1P6m&content-id=amzn1.sym.bbb6bbd8-d236-47cb-b42f-734cb0cacc1f&pf_rd_p=bbb6bbd8-d236-47cb-b42f-734cb0cacc1f&pf_rd_r=128V4JGBMZEM5PJ4QPVJ&pd_rd_wg=B8ZfO&pd_rd_r=2b108112-6e95-4747-86ef-119dbb3d196c&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mi" target="_blank">Amazon Essentials Silver</a></div><div>Slicer Software: <a href="https://www.simplify3d.com/" target="_blank">Simplify3D</a></div><div><br /></div><div><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-6854945926389902242022-05-10T07:12:00.005-07:002022-05-10T22:06:06.421-07:00So Solidworks Happened at Work Today - A Musing<p>I've spent just over 20 years working with 3D CAD programs. That experience has been nearly exclusively with the Autodesk manufacturing product line, starting with Mechanical Desktop (shortly after the earth cooled), and followed by Autodesk Inventor. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoftahRfRBL19dDNpLNmDlpEcbH9T5PPYcre6zD7JRNM5KlSsCWGr7bJn4oGyL59cJ7jFCtyedfKvdN43wYRsgd4WGJVoHdE7SguT_4UDauk51oiGu1RbWvEm5fF6PVBJTglgYtpKqWdAFu508cyHrMTWkZKTi2hRxE-FvputpXhqxke61kDs/s843/P-51%20shuttle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="843" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoftahRfRBL19dDNpLNmDlpEcbH9T5PPYcre6zD7JRNM5KlSsCWGr7bJn4oGyL59cJ7jFCtyedfKvdN43wYRsgd4WGJVoHdE7SguT_4UDauk51oiGu1RbWvEm5fF6PVBJTglgYtpKqWdAFu508cyHrMTWkZKTi2hRxE-FvputpXhqxke61kDs/s320/P-51%20shuttle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We've all seen the ubiquitous, 3D model, floating in space.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A couple of years ago, my company decided to experiment with switching to Siemens NX.</span></div><p>That experiment, unfortunately, failed. Siemens NX, while a good program, wasn't the right program for the needs of my employer. </p><p>A few months ago, my company announced that we would be going to Solidworks. </p><p>Other than dabbling in it a few times, I've never touched Solidworks. This could be an enormous change for me. <br /><br />Or not, perhaps? </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0XziV7WKeM-xUPHA45RiDuNYiVifBj-DxQydNwECh51740-8GyV9ibXAmQaEto6LNP8hOqhK75quq9QG3sn8pdRdSdkQzD2rgdLC8kguWFiZvh4wgRUhBUYsw_jlNiGvJVX0zuYvo9eCp251Dk1vx_FWknCEdXoywRn6xT2v2TzyqdvkSPSM/s3673/PoF%20Toolbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3673" data-original-width="1966" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0XziV7WKeM-xUPHA45RiDuNYiVifBj-DxQydNwECh51740-8GyV9ibXAmQaEto6LNP8hOqhK75quq9QG3sn8pdRdSdkQzD2rgdLC8kguWFiZvh4wgRUhBUYsw_jlNiGvJVX0zuYvo9eCp251Dk1vx_FWknCEdXoywRn6xT2v2TzyqdvkSPSM/s320/PoF%20Toolbox.jpg" width="171" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CAD Tools - Is it just<br />a Virtual Toolbox?</td></tr></tbody></table><p>I completed an abridged "transfer training", where we were shown where all the buttons were and how Solidworks ticks. After that, we were released upon the world. </p><p>And what did I find? Were my eyes opened to a brand new world? Was Solidworks so much better that I wondered what I was missing? <br /><br />Did I wail and gnash my teeth because Inventor was far better and I was being forced to use this inferior product?</p><p>No. I left that training and thought, "Wow! They're really similar." <br /><br />Sure, Solidworks has an Extrude and and Extrude Cut button, while Inventor has the same options combined within one Extrude command. But they both add and remove material in the end. <br /><br />There's functions where I think Inventor has it down better, and others where I have to give it to Solidworks. </p><p>In the end, I see it as an opportunity to learn a new skill, enrichen myself, and be more marketable in a competitive world. I think that's going to take me further in the long run. </p><p>So I suppose the point of my writing this is to muse about how CAD programs are tools. They're not the endgame, there the means to create our designs, drawings, and help us build our products. <br /><br />And there's nothing wrong with learning a new set of tools. It can only make me a more marketable designer. </p><p><i>One Final Note</i>. </p><p>If you're using Fusion 360, you can change your Pan, Zoom, Orbit shortcuts to reflect Inventor or Solidworks, among other programs? <br /><br />I've switched mine to Solidworks, it may not be the same as having Solidworks at home, but it does makes it easier when I switch from one to the other at work! </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVriDos3QcEhZ05MjfyH4wao_rYjQcGL_mldguEGtCllMl0TCYsQxfnxxGG6HhKI2sQZbMVKwGI03Vh6gOeEfxwEzYEW4JYR_xkxD-Va1Kn22CusF4LA2apA_ITzKlnMgA0kO7A0aUQmWinHWzlHjFfdfB2Cdce6IHlzrozoB7v2DJK33Md8/s1234/NavigationF360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1234" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVriDos3QcEhZ05MjfyH4wao_rYjQcGL_mldguEGtCllMl0TCYsQxfnxxGG6HhKI2sQZbMVKwGI03Vh6gOeEfxwEzYEW4JYR_xkxD-Va1Kn22CusF4LA2apA_ITzKlnMgA0kO7A0aUQmWinHWzlHjFfdfB2Cdce6IHlzrozoB7v2DJK33Md8/w400-h240/NavigationF360.jpg" title="Pan, Zoom, and Orbit Options in Fusion 360" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pan, Zoom, and Orbit options in Fusion 360</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Los Angeles, CA, USA34.0522342 -118.24368495.7420003638211554 -153.3999349 62.362468036178846 -83.0874349tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-76888456328832463212022-03-12T07:49:00.001-08:002022-03-12T07:49:21.282-08:00The Chamfer Note. Does It Say What You Mean?<p>Many CAD tools contain a chamfer note that I would describe as a leader style. </p><p>You've probably seen it, probably used it even. <br /></p><p>It utilizes a leader to point at the chamfer, and contains both the chamfer distance, and angle in one simple note.</p><p>The advantage of this style is it's compact, easy to read, and especially easy to place when the chamfer is packed into a crowd with other nearby dimensions. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPO5ovJvvc-g53pUOX3L1pSmRk6RzIjVBF9_yi6N9Dva15xutZ0DtJkN_V06vPGnzrrnPtmmc4EXQ2Y-7lK4eoayK4e3nJTrp-wQKWxdmCe1CSqayaRJGrBSr6t-6dkLcJZShex3ekQ2GSJKwRgP8ByZB2XpDuOURyGGlYMM_0THDq59aWUHA=s766" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="766" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPO5ovJvvc-g53pUOX3L1pSmRk6RzIjVBF9_yi6N9Dva15xutZ0DtJkN_V06vPGnzrrnPtmmc4EXQ2Y-7lK4eoayK4e3nJTrp-wQKWxdmCe1CSqayaRJGrBSr6t-6dkLcJZShex3ekQ2GSJKwRgP8ByZB2XpDuOURyGGlYMM_0THDq59aWUHA=w320-h216" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>But this dimensioning style as a subtle disadvantage. This style of dimension doesn't identify the direction of the chamfer. So if the chamfer angle is something other than 45 degrees, the angle direction is open to interpretation. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNMF3Kl_r2433tZoBFmsvIwU1fo1yI3D79qcd3M1ybvtHsj2NIGfNzx6W3j3R8JPI7li8_VH9KWOLLn__8f8msm4t5lYTO7I_y_AlqxaWScP8nX3hgskZUE6KKidxDFVo6AYAgAKaB3mLGgx4Cg1XfC8I2Bo1gvLcDCrKxPRj8yMlWpgPpmzw=s977" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="977" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNMF3Kl_r2433tZoBFmsvIwU1fo1yI3D79qcd3M1ybvtHsj2NIGfNzx6W3j3R8JPI7li8_VH9KWOLLn__8f8msm4t5lYTO7I_y_AlqxaWScP8nX3hgskZUE6KKidxDFVo6AYAgAKaB3mLGgx4Cg1XfC8I2Bo1gvLcDCrKxPRj8yMlWpgPpmzw=w400-h230" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even though the chamfers are different, the callout is is the same. <br />It's also correct in both cases.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>That literally means that a chamfer in either dimension meets the print. That can cause confusion, and possibly "heated debates" when a parts acceptance or rejection hangs in the balance. </p><p>The other option is to call out the chamfer distance and angle as separate, distinct dimensions. This identifies the direction of the chamfer much more clearly. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTFeqtB5i_DS_pq1H9v_lejMoYv7crqD4qBnVnDjcPEu4l-bL6bFkZAfSlfpMbKe8DfkE2M-D4UZUk6xJb47cquo8cag7Ujnn1Jv3GJg7QuNJnEJnK5j_ooglsJHkodlk2K60tJAU3QLDyYr-LIhU4YUtzywdf1_Hg672xj1l3bbr-eN-Sa6w=s939" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="939" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTFeqtB5i_DS_pq1H9v_lejMoYv7crqD4qBnVnDjcPEu4l-bL6bFkZAfSlfpMbKe8DfkE2M-D4UZUk6xJb47cquo8cag7Ujnn1Jv3GJg7QuNJnEJnK5j_ooglsJHkodlk2K60tJAU3QLDyYr-LIhU4YUtzywdf1_Hg672xj1l3bbr-eN-Sa6w=w400-h304" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Of course everything is a trade off, and this method does take a little more room on the page than the leader style. Even on the image above, you can see that the page is a bit more cluttered, and someitmes a detail view is required to ensure all dimensions can be clearly seen. </p><p>In the end, I find I use both. The leader style is used for 45 degree chamfers, since there isn't really an angle direction to speak of. However, when the chamfer is an angle other than 45 degrees, it's time to employ the explicit style, and make sure the direction is clearly shown. </p><p>Ultimately, it's up to you which chamfer style you use. Perhaps you have the advantage of tribal knowledge to correctly identify these features. Or you have other means to make sure the chamfer is cut the correct way. </p><p>If anything, this is a good practice hailing from the time when "back to the drawing board" was a much more literal statement! <br /><br /></p><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-57321377520100763682022-02-03T21:05:00.000-08:002022-02-03T21:05:11.188-08:00New in Fusion 360 - Improved Thread Notes<p> Sometimes it's the little things that make a guy happy. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixsKGbcbaEmRjrJDLwvxqP_VAznyQQJ_wOE-5oe3A-1xEqq2ub61knuP5LHeeJYQgUBwOCd_WE-p6C-3O5RKOPhsKyRoZdPjoQtb6P1iBlLLif1lCoD9sn4Q3dymk0tVMngXPIOJWiZJ3Gmhz81ddu1QxjX-LhkZ2hzxm03KOdo99LEO9tO3w=s597" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="597" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixsKGbcbaEmRjrJDLwvxqP_VAznyQQJ_wOE-5oe3A-1xEqq2ub61knuP5LHeeJYQgUBwOCd_WE-p6C-3O5RKOPhsKyRoZdPjoQtb6P1iBlLLif1lCoD9sn4Q3dymk0tVMngXPIOJWiZJ3Gmhz81ddu1QxjX-LhkZ2hzxm03KOdo99LEO9tO3w=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A thread note placed<br />on an external thread</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p></p><p>In this case, it's the improved thread annotation tool in the January/February Fusion 360 update. </p><p>In short, Fusion 360 can now create an annotation for a thread note placed with the thread tool, not just the hole tool as was the case in previous updates </p><p>That opens up the field to place thread notes onto external features. It's a capability I've personally been hoping would get added for some time. </p><p>Admittedly, applications like Inventor have been doing this for what seems like eons, so it's hardly a "ground-breaking" feature. </p><p>But it sure is a nice feature to have! </p><p>All you have to do is place the note using the "Hole and Thread Note" command, and you're off and annotating. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiEJfPwKx26zhEKCuUW-6plof7fiZWJ10pe313Anh-Xd0DeNwxBYvitqwkWDSOYfY7bhrAgZjgszMtFcEoKeYwYCfLswCuCzSP0gZQb_y9RGNb7mwaIPUQY26e2cpU1_RGaIWIeNGmr4o-D__zVgJaDDHzffcDiwCwdj7teS0NTnDFFCeCvHE=s806" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="806" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiEJfPwKx26zhEKCuUW-6plof7fiZWJ10pe313Anh-Xd0DeNwxBYvitqwkWDSOYfY7bhrAgZjgszMtFcEoKeYwYCfLswCuCzSP0gZQb_y9RGNb7mwaIPUQY26e2cpU1_RGaIWIeNGmr4o-D__zVgJaDDHzffcDiwCwdj7teS0NTnDFFCeCvHE=w400-h159" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Locating the "Hole and Thread Note" tool</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>One little cool thing I noticed in my evening of poking about. </p><p>The tool works with threads created using the "modeled' setting too! </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijgkRpme7ekplUygewJEI8Z9d0TQABgPv9IYUUMcWhu8IxatDOj2chPeMTu16GCOCRr1DFWQ8hAdXK8VICO_uSlaMed1e2Oqy8EmLun6lKIo3-u0xvvqqVrTqve9wfpbAtFh8Y3BtOjMy6SseLjPA7uclUZB2Moqq8yETP53gj1SMNcpfdkW4=s826" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="826" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijgkRpme7ekplUygewJEI8Z9d0TQABgPv9IYUUMcWhu8IxatDOj2chPeMTu16GCOCRr1DFWQ8hAdXK8VICO_uSlaMed1e2Oqy8EmLun6lKIo3-u0xvvqqVrTqve9wfpbAtFh8Y3BtOjMy6SseLjPA7uclUZB2Moqq8yETP53gj1SMNcpfdkW4=w400-h240" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A modeled thread with a thread note.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I've been waiting for this enhancement for a while! I'm glad it's finally here! </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-69340203130591042332022-01-08T07:49:00.001-08:002022-01-08T07:49:24.899-08:00A Milestone Creating a Fusion 360 Title Block!<div>I have completed the task I challenged myself with in my <a href="http://www.inventortales.com/2022/01/Fusion360-Titleblock-Image.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>. I finished up my reproduction of a 1940s era North American Aviation title block in Autodesk Fusion 360!</div><div><br /></div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgq8bIFRxbPsBqGDa86YZpGfoyDLu67kjOLoucaMTda0ap4qRtudo8l-o2NpkJxbgV_PTHPw6UCf4YUqNbOepH_lrlmN-_VqGmJwhSdG9MV5bJEVXO0a9cW7ghH2Uj7w9ROxDnTmI9cCxAUmH8ESWpXWj-O53XbgBj6StgEc1ucTngZLKuqn30=s879" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="610" data-original-width="879" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgq8bIFRxbPsBqGDa86YZpGfoyDLu67kjOLoucaMTda0ap4qRtudo8l-o2NpkJxbgV_PTHPw6UCf4YUqNbOepH_lrlmN-_VqGmJwhSdG9MV5bJEVXO0a9cW7ghH2Uj7w9ROxDnTmI9cCxAUmH8ESWpXWj-O53XbgBj6StgEc1ucTngZLKuqn30=w400-h278" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original, and Fusion 360 Title block together</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />It was a little tedious at times, it's a lot of repetitive sketching geometry and inserting text and properties. </div><div><br /></div><div>But it's completed, and ready for use. I'm sure I'll find a few more things to adjust as I test it out. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ultimately, I was able to recreate nearly every feature of the title block. It's not an exact match. I couldn't find a solid fill to block out the box above the part number for example. But it is close, and it will serve it's purpose just fine. </div><div><br /></div><div>As more features get added to Fusion 360, I'll update the title block accordingly. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkYlGq5Y16yRMCuWfWBeRNRJR9WJOpUE-_I2LFCiQU27VjY6WLl4DBdOsTXJhqw18a1UtvA8AZAMQyMZR7e5TVbZSolnlklAA9RGaJ9B7_UZ6gBkshNEKmu8BPGHk6GLx_XmCm8T7GjFQEo1Wh_zJn7ymtjod6mzHQr8y3WdlBJOmBvFjmtYY=s1186" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="1186" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkYlGq5Y16yRMCuWfWBeRNRJR9WJOpUE-_I2LFCiQU27VjY6WLl4DBdOsTXJhqw18a1UtvA8AZAMQyMZR7e5TVbZSolnlklAA9RGaJ9B7_UZ6gBkshNEKmu8BPGHk6GLx_XmCm8T7GjFQEo1Wh_zJn7ymtjod6mzHQr8y3WdlBJOmBvFjmtYY=w400-h125" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The North American Aviation tile block finished</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>So now, it's time to start creating drawings! From there, I'll learn more lessons and make more adjustments!</div><div><br /></div><div>Credits:</div><div><br /></div><div>Title Block Sourced from my <a href="https://aircorpslibrary.com/" target="_blank">Aircorps Library</a> subscription.</div><div><br /></div><div><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor, Siemens NX, at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br />Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com2Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817335.5920028638211576 -153.23798299999999 62.212470536178849 -82.925483tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-8613328228270014122022-01-02T08:39:00.003-08:002022-01-04T09:33:00.707-08:00A Trick - Creating Fusion 360 Title Blocks from an Image<p> Happy 2022! Here's to hoping for a prosperous loop around the sun. </p><p>One of my latest endeavors has been recreating 1940s aviation prints as 3D models in <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fusion 360</a>. The drawings are available via my <a href="https://www.aircorpslibrary.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Aircorps Library</a> subscription, and they're a great look into how parts and assemblies were documented nearly 100 years ago. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc7eBbOoz3L9DUQIKiDXuiYKPYV3irvRwJFKUY-7RFyl_zmGi7Z7WVRrvFVKgBNQOlBCSEhvKTJ2Oi8PI4cgBIf8_2VuhWOl-emqbHijaqnaPBqzC3HJ39NhqAKKFs7XcB2HDHnOcKId8V32248FchmT7OfHMo4nb5tVD5Ix4S53p-sDyldzA=s709" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="709" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc7eBbOoz3L9DUQIKiDXuiYKPYV3irvRwJFKUY-7RFyl_zmGi7Z7WVRrvFVKgBNQOlBCSEhvKTJ2Oi8PI4cgBIf8_2VuhWOl-emqbHijaqnaPBqzC3HJ39NhqAKKFs7XcB2HDHnOcKId8V32248FchmT7OfHMo4nb5tVD5Ix4S53p-sDyldzA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A piston for an actuator on a North American P-51 Mustang.<br />Model created in Autodesk Fusion 360</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The models are the fun part for sure, but I also decided to recreate the drawings themselves too. </p><p>The first part of recreating the drawing, is to recreate the title block of course. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLF0JkcZX5IVzMF-hKTS9lVu3XOm3KM75275F5GuYJIf9igQ2LIxfA7h9Tt5QQd9Lx9eSOvkot6UUXgyjq5ZYTS7APstHO_2gd4p1eyUxkZa3TqmyBM6N6lUpWu-D8Mn4EpM6kC7FStxDUCULO6_Ogi6sLl4wX16Rs5AuLgdKbR-ZK36Hqwk8=s1385" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="1385" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLF0JkcZX5IVzMF-hKTS9lVu3XOm3KM75275F5GuYJIf9igQ2LIxfA7h9Tt5QQd9Lx9eSOvkot6UUXgyjq5ZYTS7APstHO_2gd4p1eyUxkZa3TqmyBM6N6lUpWu-D8Mn4EpM6kC7FStxDUCULO6_Ogi6sLl4wX16Rs5AuLgdKbR-ZK36Hqwk8=w400-h129" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The title block image, ready for import into Fusion 360</td></tr></tbody></table>\<br /><p>It's still a work in progress, but I thought I'd spare a moment to document my progress.</p><p>It almost goes without saying, the process can be tedious. Since the original drawings are hand drawn, they have to be recreated from scratch. </p><p>The thought of trying to "eyeball" the title block wasn't very appealing, but finally an idea dawned on me that made the process much less challenging. </p><p>I imported an image of the title block, scaled it to a suitable size, and laid out the geometry on top of the image.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmvVHdCRgS0UiF-rvraJxOr33VMYn6m4xDKRDWvv92Iv5guCuvoqxT9mfCn70Rq71W9PxV9nO5ktnV82MfKr5XzsaS744slrMk9mBxX_mWtFt_2JfTgM_BYwsyKRqicXuAruA1wRNyCnxGwYtMcVW0_SJQDyutrBRz3BudbACa4RKQyS1Qcpw=s1036" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="1036" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmvVHdCRgS0UiF-rvraJxOr33VMYn6m4xDKRDWvv92Iv5guCuvoqxT9mfCn70Rq71W9PxV9nO5ktnV82MfKr5XzsaS744slrMk9mBxX_mWtFt_2JfTgM_BYwsyKRqicXuAruA1wRNyCnxGwYtMcVW0_SJQDyutrBRz3BudbACa4RKQyS1Qcpw=w400-h156" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The title block in Fusion 360. The lines sketched in Fusion 360 are highlighted.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Overall, I felt pretty well. But there was one thing I did have to overcome</p><p>There's no image opacity setting like there are in other parts of Fusion 360. But I was able to see where my sketched lines were by highlighting them. I also extended the lines beyond the edges of the image. I can always trim them later. </p><p>Finally, I'd also use the good old, "Delete, Inspect, Undo" trick by deleting the image, inspecting, and undoing the delete.</p><p>Overall, its working pretty well. I've found the process is much faster, accurate, and less frustrating than trying to scale by using the title block in a separate window. </p><p>As I said earlier, it's a work in progress. I'll share my final product when I'm done. Give me time, it might be a while! This is an "evening here and there" project! </p><p><b>One Final Note</b></p><p>The team at Aircorps Library have done a spectacular job collecting, scanning, and sharing these vintage documents. Out of respect for their work, I won't be sharing any documents or models. Please, don't ask me to do so.</p><p>If you are really interested in their documentation, feel free to check out their <a href="https://aircorpslibrary.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">site</a> and investigate a subscription yourself! </p><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor, Siemens NX, at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p><p><br /></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817335.5920028638211576 -153.23798299999999 62.212470536178849 -82.925483tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-81627463504157769632021-05-06T21:14:00.001-07:002021-06-01T21:21:40.422-07:00A Musing on Modeling Safety Wire - How Much Detail is Necessary? <div><span style="font-family: arial;">A question that was recently posed to me was; "How would you model safety wire in an assembly?" </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wxjhAayYEYgNab1K1CvsCVoDkZG8yuD-91_0aq057sUQu5qwoLslB9loBn5BVl1AuFyg9WLkivRLmF70kJnDdqMmshQ5Cayao60op5WBf-uKuuzWy5rKjMDH5zBoRCxFvNs6dg/s2543/Safety+wire.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2543" data-original-width="1236" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wxjhAayYEYgNab1K1CvsCVoDkZG8yuD-91_0aq057sUQu5qwoLslB9loBn5BVl1AuFyg9WLkivRLmF70kJnDdqMmshQ5Cayao60op5WBf-uKuuzWy5rKjMDH5zBoRCxFvNs6dg/s320/Safety+wire.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Safety wire on a fuel<br />divider on an <br />aircraft engine</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;">At first, I thought I'd write a post trying to summarize the standard, and how I've seen it approached in my travels over the years. But no matter how I tried to "summarize" the standard, it ended up too long, and so dry it put me to sleep. So instead, I'm going to try writing this briefly, and hopefully to the point. <br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">First of all, Safety (aka lock-wire) is small diameter wire of various sizes that is used to prevent fasteners from loosening and ultimately falling out. It should always pull in a direction that tightens the fastener. It's usually twisted with 6-8 twists per inch. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Of course there are more details, but they're covered by standards. In my aviation maintenance travels, that standard is AC43.13-1b, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In my engineering travels, that standard is NASM33540. I'm sure there are other standards.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">That's important. The standards tell the installer how to secure the fasteners with safety wire.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">So when it comes time to show safety wire on a model or drawing, is it normal to show the twisted wire? Is it modeled exactly as shown in the</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">image to the right?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Heck no! That takes a lot of time and computer resources, which gets expensive fast. And having a standard to reference, there's little to be gained other than bragging rights for the designer. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Instead, I've seen, and used, on of two alternatives. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The first, is to use a sweep in the model, showing where the wire should go. This takes a little modeling time and dedication, but it will show up on the model, and propagate to the drawing when its created.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZl-JNlvu_eTnGoD5lY2O0wZsZ7xppflfB2H4lWMwubz5Znay0UyojqU8OhEwo-9_061_WTHNdEA9qXuVerIhlxVmLpvBddjMpotw0QgfpJ6_I6q0nO7vtLhndml3UpcEaYvA-sQ/s739/Red+Safety+Wire+2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="739" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZl-JNlvu_eTnGoD5lY2O0wZsZ7xppflfB2H4lWMwubz5Znay0UyojqU8OhEwo-9_061_WTHNdEA9qXuVerIhlxVmLpvBddjMpotw0QgfpJ6_I6q0nO7vtLhndml3UpcEaYvA-sQ/w400-h393/Red+Safety+Wire+2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safety wire shown in the model.<br />I've colored it in red here to make it stand out. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br style="font-family: "Times New Roman";" /></div></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK5HMAIIXvYHKBVozKEHyzr1t5i4fDcX21K29h8K4jg-eUKhH0OQPXvZrE2Y2j23RhGthwWPYNQ31c9p4hUOrfiFkx17Y8hW6ikRA4LKsQIq_iIlGsEcRJA6Lh78B2Cj93kOk7Q/s1078/dwg+view+model.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1078" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK5HMAIIXvYHKBVozKEHyzr1t5i4fDcX21K29h8K4jg-eUKhH0OQPXvZrE2Y2j23RhGthwWPYNQ31c9p4hUOrfiFkx17Y8hW6ikRA4LKsQIq_iIlGsEcRJA6Lh78B2Cj93kOk7Q/w400-h284/dwg+view+model.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The modeled sweep representing the safety wire on the drawing.<br />A leader references the standards in the notes</span>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The other, is to use sketch geometry when the drawing is created. It takes a bit of time to sketch in the drawing, but the results do a good job of showing the desired result.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznUG05ssvs6Oq0JG75xdHpA0wBg1MEujKduxQb4zkFhiZWjBOylAKttLs_IA8Aannlv9gCoWo4FMAeMYAsfzmuRA41e3qYFIk1Hv9dZl0Q-BwQQGDa53LOu0zvZDKUNQGkQMdGw/s1074/dwg+view+sketch2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1074" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznUG05ssvs6Oq0JG75xdHpA0wBg1MEujKduxQb4zkFhiZWjBOylAKttLs_IA8Aannlv9gCoWo4FMAeMYAsfzmuRA41e3qYFIk1Hv9dZl0Q-BwQQGDa53LOu0zvZDKUNQGkQMdGw/w400-h278/dwg+view+sketch2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Sketches on the drawing calling out the safety wire<br />Circles and lines represent the wire's twists.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Which ever method is used, a note can call out the standard to be complied with. So the wire shown on on the drawing and model show where the wire should go, the note calls out the standard to reference.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">If the installer has any doubts, the standard should be readily available for reference. I know in many cases, it's probably even legally required to be available. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The next logical question for a reader may be, "How does this apply to me?" After all, while safe wire isn't uncommon, there are plenty of users who live long, fulfilling lives without ever touching safety wire.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">If you get anything out of this post, ponder if there's anything that can be streamlined by adding more or less detail? How detailed does the model of that purchased part need to be? Are you spending extra time showing model details that are covered by a standards that can just be shown by a note with a leader? </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Perhaps take a few minutes to think it over. You might find you save hours! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Acknowledgements</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Models created by me in <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview?term=1-YEAR" target="_blank">Autodesk Fusion 360</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">McMaster Carr models used:</span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Round Head Screws (wire lockable) - P/N <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/90350A310/ " target="_blank">90350A310 </a></span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Flat Washer: P/N <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/92141A011/" target="_blank">92141A011</a></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">45 degree elbow (37 degree flare to NPT): P/N <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/50715K637/" target="_blank">50715K637</a></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">90 degree elbow (37 degree flare to NPT): P/N </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/50715K413/" target="_blank">50715K413</a></span></span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">FAA Reference for Safetying: </span><a href="https://www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/advisory_circular/ac_43.13-1b_w-chg1.pdf" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">AC43.13-1b</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> (See page 7-19)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">NASM33540: This document is only available for purchase, so I've added a link to the old standard, <a href="http://everyspec.com/MS-Specs/MS3/MS33000-MS33999/MS33540J_14934/" target="_blank">MS33540</a>. It's very similar to NASM33540, as well as AC43-13-1b</span></div><div><br /></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-5831050960816495852021-02-11T19:06:00.001-08:002021-02-11T19:35:43.648-08:00Getting Jacked - A Simple and Clever Way to Separate Parts<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;">One thing using 3D CAD programs has taught me, programs like these can make assembling parts together a piece of cake! With just a few clicks, parts can be quickly placed into position.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;"><u></u></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSR2LoUeiVnBIJrSmzJHhl4DhIe47jKrGn3TZz75hQBqC19CZjZyupEFbrcuGxpo4YfZ14V0M-eGtBp2Ze2c2u4c4-SDNhZ-XKtz-7Gl34rDhxL9EMQxaUnThHjTUvR7f_NP0uA/s1287/Joint+Image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="1287" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSR2LoUeiVnBIJrSmzJHhl4DhIe47jKrGn3TZz75hQBqC19CZjZyupEFbrcuGxpo4YfZ14V0M-eGtBp2Ze2c2u4c4-SDNhZ-XKtz-7Gl34rDhxL9EMQxaUnThHjTUvR7f_NP0uA/w320-h187/Joint+Image.png" title="Parts ready to be assembled in Fusion 360" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">3D CAD systems have many ways of assembling components</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;">But just because a constraints allow us to easily assemble and disassemble parts, doesn't mean that it will be so easy to do on the assembly line, or during maintenance. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">One example is a seal, such as a gasket or packing that locks the two mating parts together. For example, in the image below, the O-ring creating the seal may cause enough friction to prevent the flanges from being easily separated. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPg3JyVgc2mWIA2pdbfjTHxw962MNMtTp87viMQyGvyOxkFJ5YcVaudoUxZK-80QM7oRLJMHsTlU2Pj_x71E7QTrAfCtpbaRJfvjdtPbbaSTRJyPker0Gy_LyRKo82Qi94Rpc9w/s922/O-Ring.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPg3JyVgc2mWIA2pdbfjTHxw962MNMtTp87viMQyGvyOxkFJ5YcVaudoUxZK-80QM7oRLJMHsTlU2Pj_x71E7QTrAfCtpbaRJfvjdtPbbaSTRJyPker0Gy_LyRKo82Qi94Rpc9w/s320/O-Ring.png" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The O-ring sealing the components could be enough to "friction lock"<br />the assembly, making it difficult to take apart.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;">One option would be taking a screwdriver or another prying device between the flanges and pry like you're opening a casket of pirate treasure. But while a tempting option, wedging a prybar between the flanges could result in damage to the flanges. If the flanges are made of a soft material, such as aluminum, the odds of damaging the parts goes up significantly. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;">But the designers of old did come up with a more elegant way of separating these... sticky problems. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Many times, assemblies such as these will have tapped holes that appear to go nowhere. They don't have a corresponding hole in any mating part. They just appear to.... be there.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpoaoxh2Ze2eaV-6yY9YG511sQP4ivofHY4QovEWjVF6QUUbRYmvhh9V5a4S3yj1Z-qk2xSGcYn7WbBIAa4LdtGbvjzNoqKMtlXQhxhYeGbSxUpT4044CmMAGQIIJhH74QvFkdA/s1153/Jacking+hole.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="1153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpoaoxh2Ze2eaV-6yY9YG511sQP4ivofHY4QovEWjVF6QUUbRYmvhh9V5a4S3yj1Z-qk2xSGcYn7WbBIAa4LdtGbvjzNoqKMtlXQhxhYeGbSxUpT4044CmMAGQIIJhH74QvFkdA/s320/Jacking+hole.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Why were these holes put there? They do have a purpose!</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">That's because they aren't there for the purpose of assembling parts. They're for disassembling parts. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">They're called "jacking holes". By carefully threading screws into these holes, the two flanges can be pushed apart evenly without damaging the parts making up the assembly. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZl760ZoLcoZ0aehDpNbm-RX1UQ0GAQ0qzuwqK12l3QJ1XHd3_CHrir5FG1zGqhppl9vy6Tmrlo5SCv8-DQ0Gn_ZsxFD8BZ5D2-7ylOOKM8o5iFo3TFRSCJXWrI7284HM1fp-6xQ/s950/Jacking+Screws+working.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="950" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZl760ZoLcoZ0aehDpNbm-RX1UQ0GAQ0qzuwqK12l3QJ1XHd3_CHrir5FG1zGqhppl9vy6Tmrlo5SCv8-DQ0Gn_ZsxFD8BZ5D2-7ylOOKM8o5iFo3TFRSCJXWrI7284HM1fp-6xQ/s320/Jacking+Screws+working.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Using a socket head cap screw to separate the flanges.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It's a simple, and elegant way of solving a challenge. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So if you should find yourself having to disassemble an assembly similar to what I've shown here, look for those jacking holes and see if it can make your life easier. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />And if you find yourself designing a component that may present a challenge, perhaps adding a couple of jacking holes might make for a design that's easier to disassemble when the need arises! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJ-eAl1sAQuyeds-D6_eFIvGl9yUKTXYj2juoiM7w2iuGsygQ2LOLW95zJGwiOi6LlfewIlUTlx93ZJI16ZnjeBeP8EXfpYvl7FdLyX5FimrDPqJYZEO7e3-tq1jgrL6c0yqQWw/s739/Jacking+screws+ready.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="661" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJ-eAl1sAQuyeds-D6_eFIvGl9yUKTXYj2juoiM7w2iuGsygQ2LOLW95zJGwiOi6LlfewIlUTlx93ZJI16ZnjeBeP8EXfpYvl7FdLyX5FimrDPqJYZEO7e3-tq1jgrL6c0yqQWw/s320/Jacking+screws+ready.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Opposing jacking screws help separate the flanges evenly!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 13px;">A</span>bout the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #29aae1; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="84" /></a></div><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;">Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor, Siemens NX, at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #222222;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;">For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><b>Standard Parts Used on this Project</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial;">A569-343 Viton O-ring - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/9464K173/?SrchEntryWebPart_InpBox=9464K173" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number </a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeueeTextPro-Roman, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/9464K173/?SrchEntryWebPart_InpBox=9464K173" target="_blank">9464K173</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Buna-N -343 Backup Ring - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/5288T372/?SrchEntryWebPart_InpBox=9464K173" rel="nofollow">McMaster Carr Part Number </a></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/5288T372/?SrchEntryWebPart_InpBox=9464K173" rel="nofollow">5288T372</a></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">1/2-13 x .500 Long Socket Head Cap Screw - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/92185A712/?SrchEntryWebPart_InpBox=9464K173" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 92185A712</a></span></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-66271719862478236982020-09-13T11:51:00.001-07:002020-11-13T16:34:33.482-08:00Double Checking Your Work and Subverting Mr. Murphy <p>I once saw a graph that showed the cost of making a change in the CAD model vs further down in the product design cycle</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNbDPajMQkM5cSpVqtwIdkeeiX_e8DL4mwpH9B62F7o7ajWO5YQFN01PzL71xzH6ez9Si6_vxXij4zrov9ncku9I8a6k5NR54aYQdkmT4x9sFrBcUAhoo3JIbTQpIGuCvp7YWQw/s2543/project.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2543" data-original-width="1236" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNbDPajMQkM5cSpVqtwIdkeeiX_e8DL4mwpH9B62F7o7ajWO5YQFN01PzL71xzH6ez9Si6_vxXij4zrov9ncku9I8a6k5NR54aYQdkmT4x9sFrBcUAhoo3JIbTQpIGuCvp7YWQw/w124-h254/project.jpg" width="124" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Spoiler alert! It gets more expensive as you move from design, to prototype, to production. </p><p>One need only to cases like the <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/takata-recall-spotlight#:~:text=Approximately%2063%20million%20Takata%20air,serious%20injury%20or%20even%20death.&text=Check%20for%20Recalls%20using%20your,will%20be%20repaired%20for%20free." target="_blank">Takata airbag recall</a>, or <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_737_MAX_groundings#:~:text=Preliminary%20investigations%20revealed%20serious%20flight,flaw%20involving%20the%20Maneuvering%20Characteristics" target="_blank">Boeing 737 Max grounding</a> or the impact of the impact of a a production level design change in in money, company reputation, and tragically, in lives lost. </p><p>But I'm not here to write about such heavy topics. The example I'm choosing to document is a much lower stakes version of the same thing. It's just a basic hobbyist example that at worst, is inconvenient and marginally embarrassing.</p><p>It's an access panel based on something you'd find on an aircraft. It's a concept for a potential future hobby project. I built one back when I was in school.</p><p>So I happily modeled away in Fusion 360, creating sheet metal parts and placing fasteners from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr</a>. </p><p>After spending a couple of evenings of casual modeling, I was done! I took that moment we all love, I leaned back, looked at my work proudly, then prepared one last check before I took my little victory lap.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC7-kUx3Xhz43lx6pM49PpJc6UicxUVNta5GxH18MjyZqCC02z6yKs78xTkV1UH8l2y8Inwm9Jrl5UyQ_qFkD5_ze1qsm3Y18UCmEGGGn_N5EOVnCcReUhPM0AAMHW-Jl8DmKtg/s474/Inspection+plate.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="433" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC7-kUx3Xhz43lx6pM49PpJc6UicxUVNta5GxH18MjyZqCC02z6yKs78xTkV1UH8l2y8Inwm9Jrl5UyQ_qFkD5_ze1qsm3Y18UCmEGGGn_N5EOVnCcReUhPM0AAMHW-Jl8DmKtg/s320/Inspection+plate.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The completed inspection hangar, or so I thought...<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>And that's when I saw it. </p><p>The countersunk rivets I had installed were the wrong ones. I'm not sure how I missed it initially, but obviously I did. </p><p>So first, what's wrong with the rivet? </p><p>It's a rivet with a 78 degree countersink, which means the countersink extends to the second sheet of metal being riveted. This is a big no-no. When the countersink extends into the second piece of metal, the larger hole required in the first sheet of metal makes for a weaker joint.<br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgp2HGrRrrqqvXYDKrP1sqIXhtgTvurn8Ybe5Jw0wnef72L22SQgqJ6lbhTQuC2xCm3LM9CAhRBeCfojzjFu3aIbqNBnz_wo24v7BA975tuFC91G8njRojtNZ9FDztw7jZX9RzIQ/s980/Bad+Rivet.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="980" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgp2HGrRrrqqvXYDKrP1sqIXhtgTvurn8Ybe5Jw0wnef72L22SQgqJ6lbhTQuC2xCm3LM9CAhRBeCfojzjFu3aIbqNBnz_wo24v7BA975tuFC91G8njRojtNZ9FDztw7jZX9RzIQ/w400-h273/Bad+Rivet.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wrong rivet. I did match the countersink angle to match the rivet for clarification.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc2qQDASYvR6ZjJ8WUZ5vQ0nHhj4O-5F2Q_3XR2gLItIpIpnCt_3qd048NcGGastAgPkgH7JW-fXks-_Uqp1X-iBFYUZsZlbkHz2PQSSwBlNfVAVqaF1Py9QibeBy5MxNbm8Umw/s936/Rivet+Angle.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="936" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc2qQDASYvR6ZjJ8WUZ5vQ0nHhj4O-5F2Q_3XR2gLItIpIpnCt_3qd048NcGGastAgPkgH7JW-fXks-_Uqp1X-iBFYUZsZlbkHz2PQSSwBlNfVAVqaF1Py9QibeBy5MxNbm8Umw/w400-h321/Rivet+Angle.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The incorrect rivet for this application. The countersink angle is too steep<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>The correct rivet is a 100 degree rivet. The shallower angle prevents the head from punching into the second sheet of metal. That means a stronger, and safer joint.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGFI9Rkr8vlu21PiBITkA8pa1PCDxRE0ufccLLhl6nw_89Ahqmx_OmsAaBW0c2WxRCvqJy812EQywm8Ay3FphWjCOiflHbUSYwn1HWcy83JLLUdhSvu0rFgjTcQThLnx7O1qJuA/s460/01a+Fusion+rivet+100.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="460" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGFI9Rkr8vlu21PiBITkA8pa1PCDxRE0ufccLLhl6nw_89Ahqmx_OmsAaBW0c2WxRCvqJy812EQywm8Ay3FphWjCOiflHbUSYwn1HWcy83JLLUdhSvu0rFgjTcQThLnx7O1qJuA/w400-h355/01a+Fusion+rivet+100.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 100 degree rivet, the correct one for this application. <br />I know in the model the rivet does appear to just clip the second sheet.<br />But past experience has taught me that this combination does work.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYB5xQPjQcXJjqNjZWFx6wxtOuWVtjrdmTzwVA60DxSWBmztDuQC4YZ2qdJ2lIG8VMH71y7gpR9gMpLG-oVCcrCkL1_jMjCmiKiUHq1fWwEIjmPE8TnamhQd5_UKM7OBKaA2wQA/s434/100+degree+csink.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYB5xQPjQcXJjqNjZWFx6wxtOuWVtjrdmTzwVA60DxSWBmztDuQC4YZ2qdJ2lIG8VMH71y7gpR9gMpLG-oVCcrCkL1_jMjCmiKiUHq1fWwEIjmPE8TnamhQd5_UKM7OBKaA2wQA/s320/100+degree+csink.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shallower angle of the 100 degre countersink makes a stronger joint</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>So that's the technical aspect of it, what's the other lesson?</p><p>I suppose the first lesson is make sure to check the hardware before you put it in. But we all make mistakes. That's where double checking comes in. </p><p>A final check can help prevent the last little "oops" from slipping through. Even though we can't eliminate them all, we can reduce them with a little time. </p><p>For those of us working in industry, a second set of eyes never hurts. In some places, multiple checks on a drawing are required. It's not a bad practice at all, one I think should be taken advantage of whenever possible. </p><p>Some may argue it takes time, but it takes much less time than undoing a costly mistake. </p><p>I've worked in maintenance shops where "second eyes" is a standard policy on items such as fuel system repairs. In other words, the person performing the work checks his work, and then a second technician or inspector checks it again. There often are even signatures required to prove that this step was performed. </p><p>But that's it for today's anecdote. I re-learned a few lessons in a safe environment where the only bruise was to my pride. </p><p>I hope you can take a few lessons from this musing, and keep making cool stuff! </p><p><b>About the Author:</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/s540/Jon+mask.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZfrXheZVa2F1dmCHtGv3YXzd_5YFUO4o39Yk-XwGy92A5L1DH-Wb3mKXbMFG9vxT6gFoJX8Mai0Mb5xHG3KPfyTPIyc3oDKyPsgwhJaeQEW3dfvlHL5AZSpCOUrlDw7cwbC_Nw/w84-h84/Jon+mask.jpg" width="84" /></a></div><p>Jonathan Landeros is a degreed Mechanical Engineer and certified Aircraft Maintenance Techncian. He designs in Autodesk Inventor, Siemens NX, at work, and Autodesk Fusion 360 for home projects. </p><p>For fun he cycles, snowboards, and turns wrenches on aircraft. </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Additional Resources: </b><br /><br />A nice rundown on different types of rivets by- <a href="https://www.hansonrivet.com/rivets/know-your-rivets/" target="_blank">Hanson Rivet and Supply</a></p><p>A wealth of knowledge on general airframe repairs (start at page 4-31 for the Riveting Section) -<a href="https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aircraft/media/amt_airframe_hb_vol_1.pdf" target="_blank">Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook</a> </p><p><b>Standard Parts Used on this Project.</b></p><p>.125 Diameter, 78 Degree Solid Rivet (The Wrong One) - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/97483A075/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 97483A075</a></p><p>.125 Diameter, 100 Degree Solid Rivet (The Right One) - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/96685A170/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 96685A170</a></p><p>10-32 Floating Nut Plate - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/90857A129/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 90857A129</a></p><p>.094 Diameter Rivet (to Fasten Nut Plate) - <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/30982613/6627171986247823698" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 96685A143</a></p><p>#10 Flat Washer - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/92141A011/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 92141A011</a></p><p>10-32 Pan Head Phillips Screw - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/91772A826/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr Part Number 91772A826</a></p><p><br /></p>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com1Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817335.5920028638211576 -153.23798299999999 62.212470536178849 -82.925483tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-67112785278051389652020-07-31T08:40:00.011-07:002020-08-07T06:48:52.363-07:00Designing for O-Rings and Reusing Design Features in Fusion 360<div><font face="arial">O-ring seals are hard to avoid as a mechanical designer of any type. They can be found just about anywhere that fluid, gases, or debris needs to be kept in or out of something.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4yGOaruI-L398yUn8eMYMzV37Ehz2NtnuGIM_aa6VQJ2XfOM4rSdZHkAu9IyFaWZmHiursGh6G7_H07WL0OCMhuK-zsPM4YduYslVErNoHfcaTfFvwOFnjOdFuQ8j8L5X3539g/s1960/Oring.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1515" data-original-width="1960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4yGOaruI-L398yUn8eMYMzV37Ehz2NtnuGIM_aa6VQJ2XfOM4rSdZHkAu9IyFaWZmHiursGh6G7_H07WL0OCMhuK-zsPM4YduYslVErNoHfcaTfFvwOFnjOdFuQ8j8L5X3539g/s320/Oring.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An O-Ring on the end of a flashlight<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></font></div><div><font face="arial">As simple as they appear, there's enormous amounts of research invested in that simple, pliable polymer ring.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">How does this affect the designer? Typically by the pages and pages (real or virtual), containing tables and tables of o-ring groove dimensions.</font></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXcX7te8EuAXk90BE_jZgPNwImmiwpbhkFZ1oBmlSJ275k0GJqYRtwQztNf9L4Wov9rChq_s2cj9SX-_bj-1okQGtP4ANXiVzGwfC3oM-MzyNsHQQDHkclgYwU-MB9Gb0JDk3EA/s2048/Mag+Light.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXcX7te8EuAXk90BE_jZgPNwImmiwpbhkFZ1oBmlSJ275k0GJqYRtwQztNf9L4Wov9rChq_s2cj9SX-_bj-1okQGtP4ANXiVzGwfC3oM-MzyNsHQQDHkclgYwU-MB9Gb0JDk3EA/s320/Mag+Light.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O-Rings from a<br />different flashlight.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div><font face="arial">When it comes time to apply that to a 3D modeler, that means creating the o-ring grooves, including some tight tolerances. The process can be extremely tedious, especially when there are multiple o-rings of different sizes involved.</font></div><div><br /></div><div><font face="arial">So how can a user create these o-ring glands as painlessly as possible? Sure, many of us have placed the same feature so many times we have the dimensions memorized. But why do that, unless you like that sort of pain? </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">While I can't speak for every CAD tool, many tools have wizards that will help create o-ring glands, as well as other common design features. Autodesk Inventor has iFeatures, Solidworks has Library Features.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">Fusion 360 doesn't have a library feature as such, at least that I've found at this point. But, there is a way to create such a thing and make life a little easier.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><b>Preparing the O-Ring Gland</b></font></div><div><font face="arial"><b><br /></b></font></div><div><font face="arial">The first step, is acquire the documentation with the necessary dimensions. Lately I've become partial to the <a href="https://www.parker.com/Literature/O-Ring%20Division%20Literature/ORD%205700.pdf" target="_blank">Parker O-Ring Handbook</a> myself, seeing how they know a thing or two about sealing. </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">For this example, I'll use a -018 o-ring. It's a static (non moving) seal, and I'll use the male gland as an example (stop snickering, that's Parker's terminology). </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKgkDtAx5LZo_LrU4S_m_MNBfNYAcvzO-G81TW1-q2PkniX9m3ilMME6KDJp1yjdz0v4kLc8Y8OFmcvyDYAZ8Go0BdBomyMaBH8XbXEEylCHun92Zzny5unTZrUdHa9mAS1Gzxw/s830/Oring+schematic.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="830" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKgkDtAx5LZo_LrU4S_m_MNBfNYAcvzO-G81TW1-q2PkniX9m3ilMME6KDJp1yjdz0v4kLc8Y8OFmcvyDYAZ8Go0BdBomyMaBH8XbXEEylCHun92Zzny5unTZrUdHa9mAS1Gzxw/w500-h301/Oring+schematic.png" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gland Schematic from Parker O-Ring Handbook</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">Here are the dimensions pulled from the design tables</font></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">From Table 4-1</span></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">C=.860/.861</font></div><div><font face="arial">F = .750/.754</font></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Corner break = .005</span><font face="arial"> </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBJMW69ehyPHgQnWJW5bt3fsKMPoJo-jrmBuIrS4lnJvPVbIzRdup-FfPIp96drgcNTgYsqs6efZAGXM0zFZY3_aWfIubtuA_xDn9zT07_apL2TA3wELfC_ZW6Vl2DiykeJ2pBA/s412/O-ring+table+4-1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBJMW69ehyPHgQnWJW5bt3fsKMPoJo-jrmBuIrS4lnJvPVbIzRdup-FfPIp96drgcNTgYsqs6efZAGXM0zFZY3_aWfIubtuA_xDn9zT07_apL2TA3wELfC_ZW6Vl2DiykeJ2pBA/s320/O-ring+table+4-1.png" width="320" /></a></div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">From Table 4-1A </span></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">W = .105/.110 </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws0NZ_dyFgO0FPfMG6LSGIRc-skBeZMY5gI0JGI3offGMIm7KoLiQQj7WGSAwdKVDXK3dM9xtAq4tNLaRUDxEtYjX_diyWeec_UYQcfN1xFf0j7b8lncCoj0PDJ8GvVw6emOLSA/s836/O-ring+table+4-1a.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="836" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws0NZ_dyFgO0FPfMG6LSGIRc-skBeZMY5gI0JGI3offGMIm7KoLiQQj7WGSAwdKVDXK3dM9xtAq4tNLaRUDxEtYjX_diyWeec_UYQcfN1xFf0j7b8lncCoj0PDJ8GvVw6emOLSA/w500-h168/O-ring+table+4-1a.png" width="500" /></a></div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><div><font face="arial">From Table 4-2</font></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">R = .005/.015 </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXr1ctW4rvkqhBer3sg6IwtE_rVj2feFp_awv4q8DHvLH8bYn-yMZVP0KAsPJ1NkEuldaGbA-uGfnJ0wGlSOZ6UU82LAy_vE-GBktRm7iy6xH0gXI_ZF_n_eeyLO6aCcrimPdoA/s1187/O-ring+Radius.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="1187" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXr1ctW4rvkqhBer3sg6IwtE_rVj2feFp_awv4q8DHvLH8bYn-yMZVP0KAsPJ1NkEuldaGbA-uGfnJ0wGlSOZ6UU82LAy_vE-GBktRm7iy6xH0gXI_ZF_n_eeyLO6aCcrimPdoA/w500-h118/O-ring+Radius.png" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O-Ring Groove Radius</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><b>Modeling the O-Ring Gland</b></font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">Before creating any models in Fusion 360, enter the relevant values into the parameters dialog box. This seems like extra work, but I think it makes creating models with new sizes easier.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwbe42kDQuZXMWBNb9mCpcfGlNeCwKY6lV_AgQ0aq-FWXAadUAOf6RXCg6Ysm3Eu6-m8GBb0CREvK8saCqvKyRlSTDLyhEla8LviC2GKWfq3Z4IbzKlcYhdaDGTJSfmuQ_hHNtg/s1100/Parameters+Screen.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="1100" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwbe42kDQuZXMWBNb9mCpcfGlNeCwKY6lV_AgQ0aq-FWXAadUAOf6RXCg6Ysm3Eu6-m8GBb0CREvK8saCqvKyRlSTDLyhEla8LviC2GKWfq3Z4IbzKlcYhdaDGTJSfmuQ_hHNtg/w500-h204/Parameters+Screen.png" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Fusion 360 Parameters screen with the o-ring parameters started<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><font face="arial">Now, draw the profile of the o-ring gland, using the values from the parameters table. </font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrDD8PjP8TfcdVVNZCPa4UYn0Bkbhc88IOfXv3ukz4vExqmqf5pxNMnjIEKe4qel7QO3gyBVYVpifMMQlNf6fU6Z72jltDysmHT88qztH8uYEDV0sy5K0PjBYkT4U7pqlqSVGLw/s1111/Gland+Sketch.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1111" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrDD8PjP8TfcdVVNZCPa4UYn0Bkbhc88IOfXv3ukz4vExqmqf5pxNMnjIEKe4qel7QO3gyBVYVpifMMQlNf6fU6Z72jltDysmHT88qztH8uYEDV0sy5K0PjBYkT4U7pqlqSVGLw/w400-h214/Gland+Sketch.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gland profile sketched and dimensioned.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div><font face="arial">Next revolve the profile into a solid. Now, we have a solid representing the shape of the groove.</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gUQ82AS8Aj6gYw_49LQJcpgQOBdfgZmpOv5IrWppXTctizniNYjmNKkDhjT_2VIuMcXgDnrb43ucHSVcPI476bYtPmH9K1tWY4ageTn_Cqm8Qqj9zdxA4Jvc0by6hx3xDtMQqg/s739/Revolved+Ring.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="739" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gUQ82AS8Aj6gYw_49LQJcpgQOBdfgZmpOv5IrWppXTctizniNYjmNKkDhjT_2VIuMcXgDnrb43ucHSVcPI476bYtPmH9K1tWY4ageTn_Cqm8Qqj9zdxA4Jvc0by6hx3xDtMQqg/s320/Revolved+Ring.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The o-ring groove revolved as a solid.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Believe or not, that's it for creating the gland. Saving it will make it available for other components to use.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Inserting the O-Ring Gland</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">What's needed next is a component in need of an o-ring. In this case, I've modeled a simple plug in Fusion 360. It's similar to the threaded plugs found <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/threaded-plugs/pipe-tubing-hose-and-fittings/compact-extreme-pressure-steel-threaded-pipe-fittings-10/" target="_blank">here on the McMaster Carr site</a>. I've just moved the gland location to make things a little more clear.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwoaMLZF8aDt-5aV0LEl34H-3Q8RHoIuULSxyl7ks_H_gYmCpQk5RXEvCZzsIQEatplUmMOBFNtdBiWNWxiJaik-NtyO5g120Gyp6vRFkvybZeM4URSrZ1P8D0PDlXx6pF9Ymkw/s888/Plug+Seal.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="888" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwoaMLZF8aDt-5aV0LEl34H-3Q8RHoIuULSxyl7ks_H_gYmCpQk5RXEvCZzsIQEatplUmMOBFNtdBiWNWxiJaik-NtyO5g120Gyp6vRFkvybZeM4URSrZ1P8D0PDlXx6pF9Ymkw/w400-h314/Plug+Seal.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A threaded plug<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><font face="arial">To place the o-ring gland, right click on the file in the Data Panel and choose "Insert into Current Design". This places the gland into the model</font></div><div><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOAKcKRvkbGmWV7CR-erPOuw22WkJoMjAUAO2F0fXT5RbI2Z6T_rtPn5PyZmNar1e69Ums8Nq2o3pcu7h3ZDA8fBNUofshel-Wh4YDHBLMStGQRBqpsPD9O0BiikPTgjzjvGL0Q/s504/insert+into+current+design.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="504" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOAKcKRvkbGmWV7CR-erPOuw22WkJoMjAUAO2F0fXT5RbI2Z6T_rtPn5PyZmNar1e69Ums8Nq2o3pcu7h3ZDA8fBNUofshel-Wh4YDHBLMStGQRBqpsPD9O0BiikPTgjzjvGL0Q/w400-h278/insert+into+current+design.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This inserts the gland into the plug. Now it can be positioned by using the Move/Copy command, or assembled using the Joints command.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzb0NAxeAJh5T-dn_my2xffvo97pvuZTuLVp3_vi38ZjKZ6zty4FIHMLDh6aiqIjsdrz3yQvJ_eriM1S9G_qbSKPb8OBJ3Ef0egB0bpb3RR3j3_jBl3KLep22c25OpMXmhAy0aw/s1091/Placing+gland.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1091" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzb0NAxeAJh5T-dn_my2xffvo97pvuZTuLVp3_vi38ZjKZ6zty4FIHMLDh6aiqIjsdrz3yQvJ_eriM1S9G_qbSKPb8OBJ3Ef0egB0bpb3RR3j3_jBl3KLep22c25OpMXmhAy0aw/w500-h299/Placing+gland.png" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Placing the o-ring gland. The Move\Copy command is shown.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>After positioning the gland, use the combine command to subtract the gland volume from the plug. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLKgu2wMSIjV2iH8cJT3ly9zlPbI8a66lHUGlr64f8mjvdP0kPcpyWiEQ8CQkUyg4t-giKv6HIS3DfFhL0Cony47fmPjBGu2lvkRQYkZIrOftldzGc3-in3nFhF8zoFHU1SZDwNg/s1036/Gland+subtract.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="1036" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLKgu2wMSIjV2iH8cJT3ly9zlPbI8a66lHUGlr64f8mjvdP0kPcpyWiEQ8CQkUyg4t-giKv6HIS3DfFhL0Cony47fmPjBGu2lvkRQYkZIrOftldzGc3-in3nFhF8zoFHU1SZDwNg/w400-h269/Gland+subtract.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once the Combine Command has been committed, the plug is finished. And you also have a -018 gland ready to use in your next design!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5x2b5RppHUJBe8pTLyriBv02PyOS3kusYAvFnusE7omxQSUPKsbKKQ_W3mQEM-1ldFr2AzBOhOXpVjXr4GVfbEeKyPwRGG0FmjlAI6EpzOmLWODOeKfdKldIiJWp63yrTuC1IkQ/s731/Finished+plug.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="731" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5x2b5RppHUJBe8pTLyriBv02PyOS3kusYAvFnusE7omxQSUPKsbKKQ_W3mQEM-1ldFr2AzBOhOXpVjXr4GVfbEeKyPwRGG0FmjlAI6EpzOmLWODOeKfdKldIiJWp63yrTuC1IkQ/w410-h404/Finished+plug.png" width="410" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished plug. (Don't forget to hide the original solid!)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But undoubtedly, other o-ring sizes will be needed. That's where using the parameters can come in handy. Just copy the existing gland and rename it, then enter new values in the chart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDatxoJLGnOmGV0QBAR8k9QRNRP9l8WG3-Nir_gXC8t-3U7Je3tDyr0-giFURkpall6hgCOniptiamh694I3Kekl3xWcqRrIyyPSBtGcJrYgxd_LY14a2k1i98sMCTOvr0oUv5Ig/s1107/Parameters+new.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1107" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDatxoJLGnOmGV0QBAR8k9QRNRP9l8WG3-Nir_gXC8t-3U7Je3tDyr0-giFURkpall6hgCOniptiamh694I3Kekl3xWcqRrIyyPSBtGcJrYgxd_LY14a2k1i98sMCTOvr0oUv5Ig/w400-h266/Parameters+new.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Summing it Up</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />I only used static o-ring grooves for this post. There's also dynamic (moving) seals, face seals, glands that use backup rings (for higher pressures), and probably something else I'm not mentioning. I just can't get into them all, but the data is out there. It's just a matter of looking and asking questions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As for desigining the gland, the steps I've shown here are for Fusion 360. But if you've made it this far, I hope it's the process you take away. I hope that you can find it helpful, and perhaps can apply it to what ever product you use for your design.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the very least, I hope you walk away with resources that you can use when the time comes to design for o-rings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And lastly, here's the list of resources I used in this post.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Parker O-Ring Handbook - <a href="https://www.parker.com/Literature/O-Ring%20Division%20Literature/ORD%205700.pdf" target="_blank">PDF Download</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">McMaster Carr - <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Milwaukee Penlight - <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-100-Lumens-Aluminum-Pen-Light-with-Clip-2105/302204616?mtc=Shopping-B-F_D25H-G-D25H-25_5_SECURITY_SAFETY-NA-NA-Feed-PLA-NA-NA-SafetySecurity_PLA&cm_mmc=Shopping-B-F_D25H-G-D25H-25_5_SECURITY_SAFETY-NA-NA-Feed-PLA-NA-NA-SafetySecurity_PLA-71700000052227368-58700005026398226-92700046372070219&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgo_5BRDuARIsADDEntR5u0dZA747qOoAPgSSAxhVsqjTF14MjpxnKgQ5guQHli2yyAezXIoaAnm-EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">From the Home Depot Website </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mag Instruments Maglite - <a href="https://maglite.com/" target="_blank">Mag Instruments Website</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Autodesk Fusion 360 - <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview" target="_blank">Autodesk Website</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-13546348158585690042020-06-12T09:43:00.007-07:002020-06-22T19:56:45.448-07:00Lessons from the Shop Floor - Helical Inserts do more than Repairs.Many technicians, designers, and fabricators are familiar with helical inserts, often referred to by their trade name "<a href="https://www.stanleyengineeredfastening.com/brands/optia/heli-coil" target="_blank">Heli-Coil</a>". <div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_F1Obj0e1cQLN_8sTjKmXQBYiAkbdugXtzMrTukkFBq7VhBN4dLDeDXFWWQDYnEnK3cAv6QMQ9eB3s-TQVzwjYNkDG4hX4tndjfnQUmYw1eISXMS2FiaB9hh7q2iiPHHb4DhBg/s500/Helicoil.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_F1Obj0e1cQLN_8sTjKmXQBYiAkbdugXtzMrTukkFBq7VhBN4dLDeDXFWWQDYnEnK3cAv6QMQ9eB3s-TQVzwjYNkDG4hX4tndjfnQUmYw1eISXMS2FiaB9hh7q2iiPHHb4DhBg/s320/Helicoil.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A helical insert in an exhaust manifold</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br />These inserts are made of a coil of diamond shaped wire. Looking like tightly wound spring, they can be installed in a special threaded hole to create standard metric and imperial threads.</div><div><br /></div><div>In my early experience, I only saw them used to repair a damaged thread. As a matter of fact, they were used for thread repair so often, the name "Heli-Coil" became a verb. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>"Curses! This thread is completely boogered up! I'm going to have to Heli-Coil it! This why you always start a screw with your fingers!"</i></div><div><br /></div><div>But as I gained more experience, I saw two additional uses for helical insert, and that's what I thought I'd share in this post. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Wear Resistance</b></i></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkz2qf3VPphg3Uro94IFBfb7kfARiFz5d8T76lNiMA93zc8lLbFWX3kwAVk6fRi3DCNuq2zoIyzlrfIVFXRdTkOGzFcdbYfcJ1vmY6CJg7WmRCLa85PgpaVOzS7SZwki8GLp_DQ/s905/Helicoil.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="905" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkz2qf3VPphg3Uro94IFBfb7kfARiFz5d8T76lNiMA93zc8lLbFWX3kwAVk6fRi3DCNuq2zoIyzlrfIVFXRdTkOGzFcdbYfcJ1vmY6CJg7WmRCLa85PgpaVOzS7SZwki8GLp_DQ/s320/Helicoil.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 3D model of a free running (non-lockng) <br />helical insert in an aluminum block</td></tr></tbody></table><div>The first is to create a wear resistant hole in softer material, such as aluminum. Instead of waiting for the hole to get worn out, a helical insert is installed in the hole at the time of fabrication. The helical insert is made of a more wear resistant material such as stainless steel, although there are other materials available. This creates a more durable hole better suited if repeated installation and removal of the fastener is expected.</div><div><br /></div><div>You might see this on a panel that needs to be removed periodically for inspection. Naturally, once the inspection is competed, the panel needs to be reinstalled. The more wear resistant helical insert lasts longer, and resists damage caused by cross threading. </div><div><br /></div><div>And if you have a really bad day and damage the insert, it's possible to remove the insert and install a new one without damaging the base material. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Create a Locking Element</i></b></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0lp7eEkzgKwXjZtu_I6t6_wgGC27gf9-TAsBJAAzsHKiN9LOG5Bsnii0AinKAoS3_oXxAt3lpiJWKWJ_HsrvN4M4Zpuh-ssUwZ-uoCy_yL8_7afm4wr3Q3zX7buREfie0Am8mA/s853/locking+helicoil.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="853" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0lp7eEkzgKwXjZtu_I6t6_wgGC27gf9-TAsBJAAzsHKiN9LOG5Bsnii0AinKAoS3_oXxAt3lpiJWKWJ_HsrvN4M4Zpuh-ssUwZ-uoCy_yL8_7afm4wr3Q3zX7buREfie0Am8mA/s320/locking+helicoil.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 3D model of a locking helical insert.<br />Note the deformed thread in the middle.</td></tr></tbody></table><div>Another element is to create a hole with a locking element in it. Locking helical inserts have a distorted thread in the middle that resists the screw backing out. By using a locking insert, the need for a screw with its own locking element, such as a nylon pellet, can be eliminated.</div><div><br /></div><div>While this may seem like extra work for not much gain, this can be advantageous since you don't need to purchase fasteners with their own locking elements. Another advantage is in higher temperature applications where a nylon locking insert's performance may degrade to the point where it loses effectiveness.</div><div><br /></div><div>And just like it's non-locking (also known as "free running") counterpart, it can be removed and replaced ,when it's locking element loses effectiveness.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i> <b>Wrapping it up</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div>I've written this post based on helical inserts, but there are many styles of threaded inserts. Far more than I know about, let alone discuss in one post. So if the helical insert isn't your speed, there's likely another that will do the trick. </div><div><br /></div><div>For a sampling of just some of the different types of threaded inserts available for different applications and materials, take a look at the <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/threaded-inserts" target="_blank">McMaster Carr</a> catalog!</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you found this post helpful and informative. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let's get out there and design, fabricate, and maintain some stuff!</div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Appendix and Credits</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>3D models created in <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview" target="_blank">Autodesk Fusion 360</a>.</li><li>Threaded insert models downloaded from<a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/threaded-inserts/threaded-inserts-for-metal/" target="_blank"> McMaster Carr</a></li><li>Threaded insert models are based on the NASM/MS21208 standard for non-locking inserts, locking inserts are based on the NASM/MS21209 standard, although several standards, both imperial and metric, exist.</li></ul></div><div>Finally! Looking for a video on how to install a helical insert? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAXVvhpnuUU" target="_blank">Check out this video here</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>Photo Credit: rustyheaps <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23543276@N02/6213351337">Repairing exhaust manifold, XK engine</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/">(license)</a></div></div>Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817335.5920028638211576 -153.23798299999999 62.212470536178849 -82.925483tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-41776273825098493902020-03-28T18:41:00.001-07:002020-03-28T19:21:11.836-07:00A Challenging Channel - Modeling a Sheet Metal Channel in Fusion 360On a morning this weekend, while hanging out at home with my coffee in my hand, I decided to play with Fusion 360. I had a part picked out that looked simple enough.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquLhL7XFxhBTBeGdTeilFFqPMO-i8NJeOd2L25rH5afk6GNhrK_VLLcYaBAEoN4tDUARoGoIYVModcwWkYedzgy1Hm12ALIXx0SKbY_gwv4lqgvJbt5OgmpC5yG-hqkgJumbPew/s1600/Screen+Shot+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="1387" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquLhL7XFxhBTBeGdTeilFFqPMO-i8NJeOd2L25rH5afk6GNhrK_VLLcYaBAEoN4tDUARoGoIYVModcwWkYedzgy1Hm12ALIXx0SKbY_gwv4lqgvJbt5OgmpC5yG-hqkgJumbPew/s400/Screen+Shot+3.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished part. It looks simple, but it hides a suprise</td></tr>
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The part I chose looked to be a simple sheet metal part. It looked to be a simple enough part, but it did have a <a href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/joggle" target="_blank">joggle</a> in it that complicates things a bit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdLQ1_OeDkns-AjZ40IVa1h0VK1NJ-efio4o9DXiZ5FMLYOwgUoQVvb3PgRx9TlyChk_JAilZB8tqH1lqJjFTwj-YhilnOeODAUvyMKqeGe0JGVn4TyWNSpkwJvcfoWXN49K6jg/s1600/Joggle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="1318" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdLQ1_OeDkns-AjZ40IVa1h0VK1NJ-efio4o9DXiZ5FMLYOwgUoQVvb3PgRx9TlyChk_JAilZB8tqH1lqJjFTwj-YhilnOeODAUvyMKqeGe0JGVn4TyWNSpkwJvcfoWXN49K6jg/s400/Joggle.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The joggle that changed how this part was made</td></tr>
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Since it's got this joggle, it can't be easily modeled using sheet metal tools.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAks2JsFdFze5jK99NEQe8z7gfejBRozFSFwOs3KdIX1UthDRYQRK3xeK6Mc-ionuOK5X3SdNVsynu3pcBAgP9jvAwz92gJbP0s2ABGL5rjvWSAmv1ItkbjHiJGEF9tLGHAZ1nw/s1600/Sheet+metal+attempt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="1038" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAks2JsFdFze5jK99NEQe8z7gfejBRozFSFwOs3KdIX1UthDRYQRK3xeK6Mc-ionuOK5X3SdNVsynu3pcBAgP9jvAwz92gJbP0s2ABGL5rjvWSAmv1ItkbjHiJGEF9tLGHAZ1nw/s400/Sheet+metal+attempt.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sheet metal version wasn't quite what I was after.</td></tr>
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So I decided to model it using the "regular" modeling tools.<br />
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I also decided I'd document how I did it here, for both posterity's sake, and in the hopes that it might give another struggling user an idea. I won't go through every single step, but I will give an overview that hopefully encompasses the high points.<br />
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The first thing I did was model the envelope. I nothing more than an extruded rectangle. A "brick".<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdHsk_OJxSHBbUbeexreCNOcL3Dl9vTYE3blTgsGHeHtb8c0uBP2Q7JeLrjZTDZNzH57RD7pxeACs0Kf-qO3Sn1CY2I5QztkjwEp6mAHEuIFdENXTcjEORgLbj2CyZetvKFsArg/s1600/Brick.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="1485" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdHsk_OJxSHBbUbeexreCNOcL3Dl9vTYE3blTgsGHeHtb8c0uBP2Q7JeLrjZTDZNzH57RD7pxeACs0Kf-qO3Sn1CY2I5QztkjwEp6mAHEuIFdENXTcjEORgLbj2CyZetvKFsArg/s400/Brick.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The starting point. An extruded rectangle representing the parts outer dimensions.</td></tr>
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Next came the process of carving out the shape. I started with the joggle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7GzYtasvZleCOeyOTpsS9Ql7NrmfFTPq-WHX9Mcsjar8rTmYR4NBhE_QlOTQ0cR9RwwAS-vGCTyxzx-Q7n0G7JMj0qBuZDOr69DXvHmB5GUReF2aTG_LtKZ1mm704KzZnOuZCg/s1600/Joggle+Sketch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="1495" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7GzYtasvZleCOeyOTpsS9Ql7NrmfFTPq-WHX9Mcsjar8rTmYR4NBhE_QlOTQ0cR9RwwAS-vGCTyxzx-Q7n0G7JMj0qBuZDOr69DXvHmB5GUReF2aTG_LtKZ1mm704KzZnOuZCg/s400/Joggle+Sketch.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The joggles cut into the part. I've turned one of the sketches on to make it more visible.</td></tr>
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Once the joggle was in, it was a matter of adding the remaining features, including the outside fillets that represent the outer bend radius. Notice that the part is still a brick. It's just a brick with some nice looking features!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpxTn6Y6UjGtTQnlgzblE9qWIwJbuhNVF5nTCyGhO9SSE0UIGr4jjqvBcg4vhbfvFLJoxAimYqmCxWbe7_vju50dANYk0E0CzcHfqacMEyFg6-puEwipYASILkmevUAYx9F9YO-g/s1600/Nice+Brick.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="1381" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpxTn6Y6UjGtTQnlgzblE9qWIwJbuhNVF5nTCyGhO9SSE0UIGr4jjqvBcg4vhbfvFLJoxAimYqmCxWbe7_vju50dANYk0E0CzcHfqacMEyFg6-puEwipYASILkmevUAYx9F9YO-g/s400/Nice+Brick.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The brick has all the features of the sheet metal part now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is where my original plan went wrong. My plan was to use the shell command to create the inner profile.<br />
<br />
But for some reason, I couldn't select the surfaces I wanted. I always ended up selecting a surface I didn't want.<br />
<br />
So it was time for plan "B". I switched to the surfacing workbench and used delete face to remove all the faces except those that represented the outer profile of the part.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jySvmM_94WXL7HqpnbwzslxrSS_aOuK3XIHYvB6hhFuVJEZaIbK72UjoQ0DZt5dbYL6ZYN_z1l9QeN_roFWLv1XomoOgHF7UGzQXHoGlE0rc3hVf8pHAQ8FIqvjM41ue1fJ-8g/s1600/Surfaces.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="1012" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jySvmM_94WXL7HqpnbwzslxrSS_aOuK3XIHYvB6hhFuVJEZaIbK72UjoQ0DZt5dbYL6ZYN_z1l9QeN_roFWLv1XomoOgHF7UGzQXHoGlE0rc3hVf8pHAQ8FIqvjM41ue1fJ-8g/s400/Surfaces.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The part with all but the outer profile removed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now that I had only this surface, I was able to return to the solid workbench and use the thicken tool to get the final shape I needed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpHYqHuzFpQjyWzidfKlNmp_89k-SsGlbYLM4SGtDF5-lmgcg4l0wXd3m7obR8Zn3kox0GyefdLY79mPvTnCPcTMnmAO1eO0zpYB7GZBw5YG2tR9Ook3oMWfhnJ9LcRLOcjQU-g/s1600/Finished+part.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="1320" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpHYqHuzFpQjyWzidfKlNmp_89k-SsGlbYLM4SGtDF5-lmgcg4l0wXd3m7obR8Zn3kox0GyefdLY79mPvTnCPcTMnmAO1eO0zpYB7GZBw5YG2tR9Ook3oMWfhnJ9LcRLOcjQU-g/s400/Finished+part.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>In Conclusion</b><br />
<br />
So is this the only way to do it? I doubt it. But it did get the result I was after in a way I was happy with. I'm sure someone out there has a different way of doing it, they may prefer it. And maybe someone out there has a way that's truly better. I would be thrilled if they do and I hope they share it!<br />
<br />
<b>How would this part be made in real life? </b><br />
<br />
This is one place that I'm not an absolute expert, so I encourage others to chime in. But I do have some experience making sheet metal this way.<br />
<br />
In production, a blank would be placed in a die, possibly using two of the holes to locate the part. Then a press would push the two die halves together, forming the part in one operation.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/GyuOftTUdGM" target="_blank">Here's a pretty good video on this process used for the ribs on an aircraft wing.</a><br />
<br />
If the part is made in low production, A form block can be used, made out of wood or metal. The blank is then formed using a hammer.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/wJufDAYYWb0" target="_blank">He's a video on that process. While this video shows the process being done for steel, aluminum would be done in a similar manner.</a><br />
<br />
The part I modeled in Fusion 360 calls for 24ST aluminum, which is the equivalent of 2024-T3. I know that 2024-T3 can crack when formed around tight bends, so it's possible they would have used 2024-0 (dead soft) and heat treated to the -T3 condition afterward. But that's one place I'd have to defer to the sheet metal experts, feel free to chime in!<br />
<br />
And that's it, I hope this video was informative!<br />
<br />
<b>A Final Addendum, Murphy's Law Strikes! </b><br />
<br />
As I finished up this post, I tried the shell one more time. Guess what! It worked! It seems I was just not quite getting the picks and clicks right when I tried it earlier. But I decided to go ahead and share the post anyway because I still feel it's a viable alternative. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXAq2uRQztDkoAOHa812tT5XDrsglisYAWrieQQwirFgYwX7ciG1tkpurgARvWpbjcywCRo3PABDkZUf6RCFyQEBL9-BF5m6YeEfCm3xLwTRKuKLGX0BshAZXVmmTuQymiIXT2A/s1600/Shell+works.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="1101" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXAq2uRQztDkoAOHa812tT5XDrsglisYAWrieQQwirFgYwX7ciG1tkpurgARvWpbjcywCRo3PABDkZUf6RCFyQEBL9-BF5m6YeEfCm3xLwTRKuKLGX0BshAZXVmmTuQymiIXT2A/s400/Shell+works.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It figures! The shell does work!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.08173333.8495232 -118.162414 33.954950200000006 -118.001052tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-29193211451157151612020-03-19T21:55:00.000-07:002020-03-20T10:30:32.410-07:00A Brief Summary of Drafting, Modeling, and Making Hydraulic Ports<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifaqsuD8HUq31aAkGSFXdYa-SWLsRqQO2f9D4wNlRQfsTCpyph48sIjZo1Aj8Kp8UccT9Sq6jo6OCmjbt1j-4nl7jjwFNVO739VRnYeDgQ1rGLXZO5j3Y9XP5mzY5YU96QGDNhGg/s1600/It+dont+fit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifaqsuD8HUq31aAkGSFXdYa-SWLsRqQO2f9D4wNlRQfsTCpyph48sIjZo1Aj8Kp8UccT9Sq6jo6OCmjbt1j-4nl7jjwFNVO739VRnYeDgQ1rGLXZO5j3Y9XP5mzY5YU96QGDNhGg/s400/It+dont+fit.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Somewhere, someone is saying "It fit when I modeled it in the compuuter!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
CAD systems are wonderful tools, but, they're still tools, and largely reliant on the person pushing the mouse.<br />
<br />
I was reminded of this when talking to a colleague about the standard hydraulic ports we use.<br />
<br />
I know, riveting, right?<br />
<br />
The conversation eventually turned to how the ports are called out on the drawing, and how we didn't learn this part of it in engineering school.<br />
<br />
I recalled a time when I didn't know the standard, and how mysterious the process seemed to me as a young engineer<br />
<br />
But when I was just a young lad, there was a crusty old salt with a black substance on his fingertips.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure if it was grease, ink, or pencil lead. It may have been a combination of all of it. Regardless, he helped set me straight.<br />
<br />
So I decided I'd share what I know about the design, modeling, and drafting of hydraulic ports, in the hope that maybe it'll help someone else who faces a similar challenge..<br />
<br />
The ports in question are "straight thread o-ring ports". In short, it's a port that allows an o-ring to be squeezed between the port wall, and the hydraulic fitting. This is shown in the image below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZl9wh5dZWg7jzxqZYDCtRVZ4K_cTkrQ22FVUQf2CJKFYHUd6A3CeSTbyOG1ac1RtgscRFgPWPkDexmLc5MLNCD2MOSxSQ3LpIriKRCzfn1m9KItm3dziRAlOHf4blzVj_DwOkYw/s1600/Port+with+callouts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1229" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZl9wh5dZWg7jzxqZYDCtRVZ4K_cTkrQ22FVUQf2CJKFYHUd6A3CeSTbyOG1ac1RtgscRFgPWPkDexmLc5MLNCD2MOSxSQ3LpIriKRCzfn1m9KItm3dziRAlOHf4blzVj_DwOkYw/s400/Port+with+callouts.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The o-ring is compressed between the fitting and the wall of the port, making for a good seal.<br />
<br />
It would stand to reason that the geometry to create the seal is pretty specific, and you'd be right. That's where the standards come into play. Somewhere, in the past, someone put a lot of work into figuring this out!<br />
<br />
The one I use most at work is the AS5202 standard, it's the one shown in this image above. There's a lot of little details in there, fairly tight tolerance dimensions, angles, and surface finishes.<br />
<br />
I won't go into all the dimensional details here, but for reference on the different port sizes and dimensions, the <a href="https://www.parker.com/literature/O-Ring%20Division%20Literature/O-Ring%20ehandbook%20pdfs/Boss%20Seals%20Tables.pdf" target="_blank">Parker Hannifin document can be referenced here</a>. Rumor has it they know a thing or two about fluid fittings! The AS5202 port data can e found at the top of the document.<br />
<br />
So, given that these dimensions are standardized, how do you make these ports?<br />
<br />
I'm not a leading authority on the subject, but I know of two ways to make these ports.<br />
<br />
The first, is get one of those fancy CNC machines and do some programming.<br />
<br />
The other, is to get a tool that already has the port profile cut into it. Then all you need is a standard mill. You might even be able to use a drill press, but I'd defer to a real machinist on that one!<br />
<br />
The threads are added in a secondary operation.<br />
<br />
An example of the tools can be found at the <a href="https://sct-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Catalog2015_81015_MS33649R.pdf" target="_blank">Scientific Cutting Tools</a> catalog page here.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBq9mdnOdwjJ5gghj9qGR6VM6l2OWTN47mQL7hTuxwEt6kdi_RpRnIF9S1qNitxCP4Fi3tUUS7CbzCK7REcsN1BFCo9KQxQaIu0RhQfodOLGAXpecxyB0ofnbvYfc_Q5e2LIKi4Q/s1600/as5202+port+tool.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="692" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBq9mdnOdwjJ5gghj9qGR6VM6l2OWTN47mQL7hTuxwEt6kdi_RpRnIF9S1qNitxCP4Fi3tUUS7CbzCK7REcsN1BFCo9KQxQaIu0RhQfodOLGAXpecxyB0ofnbvYfc_Q5e2LIKi4Q/s400/as5202+port+tool.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AS5202 Port Tool. Image from Scientific Cutting Tools Catalog above</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you'd like to take a detour and see a machinist using a similar tool to make this port, you can check out the <a href="https://youtu.be/RDZDB4B9_os" target="_blank">YouTube video here</a>.<br />
<br />
So now there's a discussion on the port, and how it's made.<br />
<br />
But, how would you call these out on a drawing? While I'm sure everyone has their own method, one thing that could be taken away from this is to.... .use the standard.<br />
<br />
Just callout the port: "by the standard"!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSbAsgPpeh1VBTzxBGvvly_k-JVrER_AAlTUZwx8LvyyUmMjnETYevMBXcre1DhEQ1G9s-uicEV2jYDZSXAT1wZLQinp2xXud9yfog26ILJAHkeOM4JNHIC-Yacpm6XI_4kqCNQ/s1600/Drafting+callouut.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1000" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSbAsgPpeh1VBTzxBGvvly_k-JVrER_AAlTUZwx8LvyyUmMjnETYevMBXcre1DhEQ1G9s-uicEV2jYDZSXAT1wZLQinp2xXud9yfog26ILJAHkeOM4JNHIC-Yacpm6XI_4kqCNQ/s400/Drafting+callouut.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a typical port callout</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That covers some of the "big stuff", but here's a couple of trivia notes for you.<br />
<br />
The dash means someting!<br />
<br />
If you look at that document, you'll notice the column "tube dash number". That's a standard that seems to be one of those that the initiated assume that everyone knows. <br />
<br />
Notice in the image below, taken from the Parker Hannifin catalog. You'll notice there's a column for "Equivalent Dash Nmmber", as well as a column for "Tube OD Minimum".<br />
<br />
Now, if one takes the dash number, and divides it by the number "16", you'll end up with the Tube OD. It's like they did it on purpose!<br />
<br />
So if you're using -4 tubing (.250 inches), any fitting using a -04 dash number will work.<br />
<br />
\<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9sIlpRtGlhrcP0OjwrRs4y58n6y0mY3f56ZsF7gMBMR41dDmaMgs12C3fgPvl_OE77saFkYtSLl-tVKs6JBp5PIvkNMxoWVFqSIBKtx5viJiI65JRSAuWo-EUr0q-4gxPbIVJRA/s1600/TUBING.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="1169" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9sIlpRtGlhrcP0OjwrRs4y58n6y0mY3f56ZsF7gMBMR41dDmaMgs12C3fgPvl_OE77saFkYtSLl-tVKs6JBp5PIvkNMxoWVFqSIBKtx5viJiI65JRSAuWo-EUr0q-4gxPbIVJRA/s400/TUBING.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a fittings and tubes<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The standards change, but the geometry doesn't.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
You might have notice that there are three standards that are listed as "Superseded" in the Parker Hannifin catalog. And that's because the standards have changed over the decades, but the actual geometry has changed little, if any.<br />
<br />
Some of you may even know it by the older designations!<br />
<br />
I guess they had the geometry right even then!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyNWyaQcepr76ay8QY8DO13bqy-U7JrxCM9zcKbduM5DURot7D0FotNcOqZifIkcUhylgSYOdqi0WIqR6441EMPzILnq-9MLvtTS_UtKo6MnENDvvVoFj-f7yES79RsPZ9oNzMA/s1600/Boss+numbers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="1600" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyNWyaQcepr76ay8QY8DO13bqy-U7JrxCM9zcKbduM5DURot7D0FotNcOqZifIkcUhylgSYOdqi0WIqR6441EMPzILnq-9MLvtTS_UtKo6MnENDvvVoFj-f7yES79RsPZ9oNzMA/s400/Boss+numbers.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Supersedes" comment gives you a brief history of the port.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
In Closing....<br />
<br />
I hope this little blurb was helpful. While it may be mundane and boring to some, I actually think it's interesting. So take a look, see if it, or some form of the information helps you out.<br />
<br />
Happy designing!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.08173333.8495232 -118.162414 33.954950200000006 -118.001052tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-87337998327961502372020-01-24T10:19:00.003-08:002020-08-21T08:43:26.138-07:00Which CAD System is the Best? Guess What? It Depends.! <pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">FIrst the Earth cooled, then I started my 3D modeling career with Mechanical Desktop....</span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span></pre>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25UqEqasuzvqWbp-FfUM0dQW8kk7EgU00L-EaocFcaJjzHnMEE0Z_J63b7ZbAHDTMixTYLX7sTzjGzNTLH3Rx_43GY9h6C18B_aHJRk2yj0Lfy9LyRzlQ02lJQlObmsr6k9m8Pg/s1600/Dinosaur.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25UqEqasuzvqWbp-FfUM0dQW8kk7EgU00L-EaocFcaJjzHnMEE0Z_J63b7ZbAHDTMixTYLX7sTzjGzNTLH3Rx_43GY9h6C18B_aHJRk2yj0Lfy9LyRzlQ02lJQlObmsr6k9m8Pg/s400/Dinosaur.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture of my first engineering meeting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Eventually I'd crawl out of the 3D primordial ooze and move on to Autodesk Inventor. That would be my tool of choice for much of my career.</span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-_edDInTBf2s5Al-gNGCMnPCIo8JUjx4kt2Z2YNafE-DdroQGFxGBXrAL7zCjUkg8REFTBBPwSUC7STRuZCFbQp22wMXbUF-mke2JwVItUmSEN9iTTr7_1139QxjAdFyxbBRGQ/s1600/01a-Prep+open.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1600" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-_edDInTBf2s5Al-gNGCMnPCIo8JUjx4kt2Z2YNafE-DdroQGFxGBXrAL7zCjUkg8REFTBBPwSUC7STRuZCFbQp22wMXbUF-mke2JwVItUmSEN9iTTr7_1139QxjAdFyxbBRGQ/s400/01a-Prep+open.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A coffee table I modeled in Autodesk Inventor a few years ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lately, the shifting sands of my career have led me to use Fusion 360 more heavily for personal projects, and Siemens NX at work. I've even had an opportuntiy to dabble in Solidworks a bit, although I've only become acquainted with it. </span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PNSzrWoyIDZ7BxohWIHJY7CzF3nj7su_AU4I5E5ClmEE9bIR4nrUF43kKGIqZ03xKZdVeDFamKbKqtVDuKG57zVb16J0khZW3NBK9sQUaDVUR-YmOXohRXA4wDEuG0YsjRFwZA/s1600/NX+generic+model.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1100" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PNSzrWoyIDZ7BxohWIHJY7CzF3nj7su_AU4I5E5ClmEE9bIR4nrUF43kKGIqZ03xKZdVeDFamKbKqtVDuKG57zVb16J0khZW3NBK9sQUaDVUR-YmOXohRXA4wDEuG0YsjRFwZA/s320/NX+generic+model.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
I'm far from an expert in every tool, I'm still far more capable in the Autodesk tools than I am in the Parasolid based tools such as Solidworks and Siemens NX.
But I'm not writing this to claim "this CAD is better than that CAD". In fact, I'm going to avoid making statements to that effect.</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are plenty of bars, pubs, and lunchrooms where that discussion can be held! </span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
What I am going to do, is share what I've learned having been exposed to all these different systems. If you take a few moments out of your day, I leave you to draw your own conclusions. I would even be as bold to say that there are some who have already made their conclusions. If that's the case, I doubt I could say something to sway you, if that were my intent.
To that group of users, I say "Rock on, get down with whatever CaD system you've selected.
So here you are, a few things I've learned interacting with a few different 3D modeling tools.
<b>1) They're exactly the same, except where they're different. </b>
I've learned that in general, most CAD programs can get your job done, especially for most common functions. The biggest difference is how they get there. Do you want to place sketch constraints in Inventor, there's a tool, and a workflow for that. Do you want to get the same result with Fusion 360, Siemens NX, Solidworks, there's almost certainly a way to do it. </span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3j70W11ADDsAUhumCS19ds_DfzCEhzf9TGJlgO34oZRMGItY9B1sOwQShCk8fcAmPksCVXRpLjiPQPKBqIwF9fNXrUN5mZEMJdMMPYuLtQQqfUmye3mnz-X0C2HP2neXPDtv55g/s1600/Fusion+B-17.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="841" data-original-width="1121" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3j70W11ADDsAUhumCS19ds_DfzCEhzf9TGJlgO34oZRMGItY9B1sOwQShCk8fcAmPksCVXRpLjiPQPKBqIwF9fNXrUN5mZEMJdMMPYuLtQQqfUmye3mnz-X0C2HP2neXPDtv55g/s400/Fusion+B-17.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A B-17 Bombardier's panel I modeled in Fusion 360</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Certainly a case can be made that one workflow is better than another. I'm sure some of that is a matter of personal preference, and in others I'm sure that a workflow in a given program can indeed be better.
<b>2) The next tool isn't just like your old tool, get over it.
</b>
Change can be hard. I get it! And I'm no better than anyone else when change comes, stands at my cubicle and says "If you could change everything your comfortable with, that'd be great."</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCK25TLX-0bbNed8W06dtSG9kdjIQuJW_DDjSDHaBG2ud-NKeFsjzXaDhLQpFI0S2p4_Pp_bbzHKrbDmZ8JnT2d5vkY7esIidEiX8-Q4FGTIgrG3VbzLtBfzOtFXRLIwJQjs1tw/s1600/Corsair+SWX.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1319" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCK25TLX-0bbNed8W06dtSG9kdjIQuJW_DDjSDHaBG2ud-NKeFsjzXaDhLQpFI0S2p4_Pp_bbzHKrbDmZ8JnT2d5vkY7esIidEiX8-Q4FGTIgrG3VbzLtBfzOtFXRLIwJQjs1tw/s400/Corsair+SWX.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bracket I modeled in Solidworks. It's certainly different than Inventor, but similar to Siemens NX</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
I'm currently in the process of learning Siemens NX after using Inventor for 20 years. NX is a great tool more than capable of doing the job, but there are a few places where Inventor runs circles around NX in ease of use.
Sure, I could jump on my desk and scream "You can have my Inventor when you pry it from my cold, dead hand!" But ultimately, the company, you know those guys who write my checks, have decided NX is the way to go. It's up to me to be part of the team, or be that one worker that's so toxic that my comrades take the long way to avoid making eye contact.
<b>3) Learning a new program can be a great opportunity to "skill stack". (</b></span><i style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>I said "skill stack"! Buzzword achivement unlocked!</b></i><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>)</b>
While embracing a new product can be a frustrating challenge at times, I chose to see it as a chance to expand my skills. And I've found that by approaching a new system with an open mind, learning a new system isn't as daunting as it might seem. Many times, tools are similar enough to one and other where I already know a big portion of a workflow.
I've sat down with Solidworks and tried something and realized, "That's similar to NX!" They both use the Parasolid kernal after all. </span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgjDDJV9jlh4vIILvEKR6Pg8PUSmT-MOeVyd_3xNGE-Hbuu1av_6N4scKtAyJD66rHSS5WiC1sMHyOJlHF7ZpYifQ6esgzV7wTtCEvOfE2cYFwtPGevG2vb7pmDgvgfBbSwKvjA/s1600/Swiss+Army+Knife.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="884" data-original-width="1600" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgjDDJV9jlh4vIILvEKR6Pg8PUSmT-MOeVyd_3xNGE-Hbuu1av_6N4scKtAyJD66rHSS5WiC1sMHyOJlHF7ZpYifQ6esgzV7wTtCEvOfE2cYFwtPGevG2vb7pmDgvgfBbSwKvjA/s400/Swiss+Army+Knife.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Likewise, I've that other tools have similar workflows to each other, and once you know one, it's not as hard to learn the next.
I can now sit down with someone and say, "I've used 6 different CAD systems, and administered two of them".
Am I an expert at all of these systems? Absolutely not. But I have the ability to pivot into a new tool and learn it if I need to. And 3D modeling isn't my only trick, I have my engineering and design background to fall back on.
<b>4) The best CAD system is the one your getting paid to use.
</b>
We all have our favorite CAD systems, that we'd use if we were independently wealthy, and could run whatever we want. But most of us have to use the program dictated by the company we work for.
Is that a bad thing? I think that's for everyone to decide for themselves. I've learned (the hard way sometimes), to do by best to be passionate about the program paying my bills, even if it might not be my first choice of programs.
In conclusion, these are just my ideas. If you disagree, that's completely fine! This is me on my little soapbox, waxing poetic about the way my career has been shaped.
I encourage you to reflect on your own career and where it's taken you, and live that potential to the fullest. </span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Acknowledgements:</b>
</span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">photo credit: trustypics - <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.flickr.com/photos/26668694@N05/7619504546%22%3E30%20Year%20Old%20Technology%3C/a%3E%20via%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://photopin.com%22%3Ephotopin%3C/a%3E%20%3Ca%20href=%22https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/%22%3E(license)%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Swiss Army Knife</a></span></span></pre>
<pre class="aLF-aPX-K0-aPE" style="background-color: white; overflow-wrap: break-word; user-select: text;"><span face="" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
photo credit: LadyDragonflyCC - <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.flickr.com/photos/19646481@N06/4299545606%22%3EBox%20End%20Wrench%3C/a%3E%20via%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://photopin.com%22%3Ephotopin%3C/a%3E%20%3Ca%20href=%22https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/%22%3E(license)%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Wrenches</a>
</span></span></pre>
Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-21026305940491776252019-07-28T07:35:00.000-07:002019-07-28T11:28:32.160-07:00Speeding up a 3D Print with Chamfers<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZMdoaiqHlYIQ29agzbWIoh7ZFHsA_xCy0bd__LsUkt7B8hOyoad8sW9U7piAdyR_KsEFLT4GfgG4PwIClz7XZd3KlAg1n3dZ8mx_rDSR4cMqjy2wYgfLomGqtdn_6vsFckU0bw/s1600/Start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="769" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZMdoaiqHlYIQ29agzbWIoh7ZFHsA_xCy0bd__LsUkt7B8hOyoad8sW9U7piAdyR_KsEFLT4GfgG4PwIClz7XZd3KlAg1n3dZ8mx_rDSR4cMqjy2wYgfLomGqtdn_6vsFckU0bw/s320/Start.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A section view of a hollow part that will need<br />
a lot of supports to print successfully<br />
Model created in Fusion 360</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I first started 3D printing, I had quite a few assumptions in my head. One of the first assumptions I had to dispel was that if the model was finished in CAD, it was ready to print. There was no such thing as optimizing for 3D printing.<br />
<br />
I was quickly learned that like many projects, preparation can be a huge part of making sure a you can get a print in a timely matter, and optimizing for 3D printing was a very real consideration indeed.<br />
<br />
One of the things I've found I modify a lot are the hollow internals of the part. That's right. Sometimes the portion of the print nobody ever sees gets the most attention!<br />
<br />
If you're like me, you might think "Who cares what the inside looks like? Nobody sees it."<br />
<br />
The rub comes when considering 3D printed models need to build a lattice work of supports to hold up overhands that would otherwise collapse if left unsupported. That lattice work takes time and material to create. <br />
<br />
The supports (generated in Cura), can be seen in cyan below.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_T1iLt4mA2wAjcZTizDG4gGBdXhzOIWl-ZlRyLmNcZm3ljr2a9Euq5eA7fMfY8nXzHhb5JSQ2_dUoLLhtN6HxsZSa9BPc7Pci6d40Q2WbXjZy49Q31RjaWOUbqnbcVjnw-RSog/s1600/Supports.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="683" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_T1iLt4mA2wAjcZTizDG4gGBdXhzOIWl-ZlRyLmNcZm3ljr2a9Euq5eA7fMfY8nXzHhb5JSQ2_dUoLLhtN6HxsZSa9BPc7Pci6d40Q2WbXjZy49Q31RjaWOUbqnbcVjnw-RSog/s320/Supports.jpg" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The required supports for this build. That's a lot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And what that translates into, is a lot of extra time and wasted material as tons of supports get generated.<br />
<br />
So what can you do to reduce the internal supports for model?<br />
<br />
Build your own!<br />
<br />
At least in my experience, I found that the threshold where the slicer adds supports is 45 degrees. If an overhang is 45 degrees or more, it will "self support". So by adding 45 degree chamfers into the hidden overhangs of a model, the amount of time, and material needed to print a model can drop way down.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvx_fwjnvdV6k_Ekx9k4ZuQeYjmtTx1byjViX3OJCGckzhI1AMnAs_15SUeqprEBwYqAwJh9Y2s0I_DReMaAe25m-xRCMSHY8Z2rl7TzAMetCXG8D_IZMMepEIpGki7eax2KKsg/s1600/Chamfers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="793" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvx_fwjnvdV6k_Ekx9k4ZuQeYjmtTx1byjViX3OJCGckzhI1AMnAs_15SUeqprEBwYqAwJh9Y2s0I_DReMaAe25m-xRCMSHY8Z2rl7TzAMetCXG8D_IZMMepEIpGki7eax2KKsg/s320/Chamfers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In this example, 45 degree chamfers removes the need for supports<br />
(Image from Cura)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In the prints I've made, I've shaved about 30% off the time to print a model. In one case, I saved 10 hours from a multi-day print.<br />
<br />
Of course your results will vary, but the real lesson I'd like to share is that sometimes, you may find that it's better to make modifications to your model in your preferred CAD system before throwing it at your slicer and letting that go to town.<br />
<br />
So think about altering the internals of your models a little to remove unnecessary material. Something as simple as adding big chamfers to overhangs can make an enormous difference in your print times and material costs!<br />
<br />
<br />Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817329999999933.8495232 -118.16241399999998 33.954950200000006 -118.00105199999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-17376355290030459992019-06-24T18:55:00.000-07:002019-06-24T18:55:26.681-07:003D Printing Threads - A Few Tricks I Picked UpWhen I first took on 3D printing, the subject of threaded fasteners always made me a bit nervous. While I try to use actual hardware whenever possible, there are cases where the thread isn't used on a simple part that can be purchased from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/" target="_blank">McMaster-Carr</a>.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBF47L-rxHUfB4470ZtM9kMmCuKHvRdwwe59JH91PNY_wQdHSbNPdRA91wE42gs-m4wEfy8B89CpnKmnuDLubRW-b3MAWt93Aq_rClhTn8APDpLWbDr5rjBIcjcniwZBegUeqEA/s1600/01_Start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="642" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBF47L-rxHUfB4470ZtM9kMmCuKHvRdwwe59JH91PNY_wQdHSbNPdRA91wE42gs-m4wEfy8B89CpnKmnuDLubRW-b3MAWt93Aq_rClhTn8APDpLWbDr5rjBIcjcniwZBegUeqEA/s320/01_Start.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a part requiring a thread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
That meant, eventually, I was going to be faced with making a thread. What made me nervous was how to I make the thread work? Especially since I typically deal in machine threads? Machine threads can get pretty fine. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First, I want to get the acknowledgements out of the way. I didn't come up with these ideas on my own. I started by watching the following videos, and adapted them to fit my needs. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The first is from <a href="https://youtu.be/ngt0hTB4Tjw" target="_blank">KETIV Technologies</a>, and the second, from <a href="https://youtu.be/QF5aZz2k0bg" target="_blank">3D Printing Nerd</a>. Those videos are certainly worth taking a look. But I did need to tweak their procedure to get the result I needed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So here's a quick rundown of the procedure I used, with a couple of changes I made to make it work for me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll be using Fusion 360 for this example. I've found it gives me the best results, but I'm sure other CAD tools can perform similar functions.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Here we go! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Thread Reliefs are <i>Not</i> a Relief</b></div>
<div>
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<div>
First of all the part I work with often have thread reliefs modeled in. I found out the hard way that these can sometimes interfere with the thread lead in. I've had the best luck deleting them and making sure the thread starts right at the end of the desired starting point. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_3-Ndy3qONPSTi_QEtIdpQkhyphenhyphenE0vQxhMBpIHbBNAJu5bDtNDqLqadj9viZbhFcDh9jtXV_9BB9tAsxNZXJibhbP6juVadVbjGGkBZVt9FXaYQdHhO_jC8kXdcN-LE9v6K0_QGw/s1600/02_Thread+Reliefjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="813" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_3-Ndy3qONPSTi_QEtIdpQkhyphenhyphenE0vQxhMBpIHbBNAJu5bDtNDqLqadj9viZbhFcDh9jtXV_9BB9tAsxNZXJibhbP6juVadVbjGGkBZVt9FXaYQdHhO_jC8kXdcN-LE9v6K0_QGw/s320/02_Thread+Reliefjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The thread relief has been deleted.<br />Click image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /><b>Tune up the Virtual Tap and Die Set</b></div>
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After deleting the reliefs, the modeled thread needs to be added. This may be done by editing an existing thread, or creating a new one if a thread feature doesn't exist. Fusion 360 has a check box that models the thread, Other programs have different methods of adding the thread. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_UFCu3M20wdl0be3OLsXHG46-EKH_77gAltFdFdXXQB4XRCJpypuOt7GSmzWMNsNFnT_nPb7vyBubQjZcbtRICf9jnn6ZjBmZ_xb3aAOQBY-DZnDrYVqbIobIIXHkWn1rblYkvw/s1600/03_Threaded+Model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1214" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_UFCu3M20wdl0be3OLsXHG46-EKH_77gAltFdFdXXQB4XRCJpypuOt7GSmzWMNsNFnT_nPb7vyBubQjZcbtRICf9jnn6ZjBmZ_xb3aAOQBY-DZnDrYVqbIobIIXHkWn1rblYkvw/s400/03_Threaded+Model.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The modeled thread and dialog box.<br />Click to enlarge image.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<b>Practice Your Scales</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Now comes my challenge and the solution I found for that challenge. I needed to scale the thread to increase the clearance between the mating thread so it will thread smoothly. But I can't scale the entire part, because the rest of the geometry needs remain the same size. </div>
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So I split the part into two different solids. In this case, I used an extruded surface as my splitting surface. The diameter of the surface is only slightly smaller than the minor diameter of the thread. </div>
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Remember the goal is to scale the thread, not anything else! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVjqYsXau-aNFae0OFDFpwOLRtHib_TtupfSn85NY9tBWipnJpHRI9WzY1uG30-KOXgL_MCFiBjedqZ7Y_lzplXjOAfFt7Odv4ACVaIEpwaGx8BnDkfGQZaLNy149D85zBGRhtg/s1600/04_Cutting+Surface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="1346" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVjqYsXau-aNFae0OFDFpwOLRtHib_TtupfSn85NY9tBWipnJpHRI9WzY1uG30-KOXgL_MCFiBjedqZ7Y_lzplXjOAfFt7Odv4ACVaIEpwaGx8BnDkfGQZaLNy149D85zBGRhtg/s400/04_Cutting+Surface.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of the surface that becomes the cutting tool.<br />Click image to enlarge</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
Now the solid containing the thread can be scaled. For the parts I work with, I only scale radially. The thickness is left alone. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreGsg5a7v7Su5Iww6cCcFIJvfYXIeSXDwbl47be21v5DYsh57wc2Ty-OQQTN4mzY-R7se7Idl98rwhSwO7DVglx3z1C72EBxGRbQOA8b7Oj2XUOVg38Xlccpt6jgiJtsQGmC6-w/s1600/05_Scaling+the+thread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="968" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreGsg5a7v7Su5Iww6cCcFIJvfYXIeSXDwbl47be21v5DYsh57wc2Ty-OQQTN4mzY-R7se7Idl98rwhSwO7DVglx3z1C72EBxGRbQOA8b7Oj2XUOVg38Xlccpt6jgiJtsQGmC6-w/s400/05_Scaling+the+thread.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scaling the solid that contains the thread.<br />Note the use of Non-Uniform Threading<br />Click image to enlarge</td></tr>
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As far as the amount to scale, I've found that it varies. I've done between 0.5 and about 5 percent. With larger percentages working for smaller threads. However, I'm still working on the guidelines, so I wouldn't consider these numbers absolutes. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Check the Thread Clearance</b></div>
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<br />As a final check, I compare the part to it's mating thread, assuming I have it, and if I have what looks like a good clearance, I roll with it. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify5E6wSYRA2Etcw9gICM1QqhZ4cHgqrserOq6iduxzWVHKWjw8ql2ilHECH9pgQEd6l-rExBcNvhbLAakcK7xcB653lyzjB_DunPP2DDUb4z2SFcq1i0IVkI1hjgAY-EclCXLUQ/s1600/07-Thread+comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify5E6wSYRA2Etcw9gICM1QqhZ4cHgqrserOq6iduxzWVHKWjw8ql2ilHECH9pgQEd6l-rExBcNvhbLAakcK7xcB653lyzjB_DunPP2DDUb4z2SFcq1i0IVkI1hjgAY-EclCXLUQ/s400/07-Thread+comp.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comparing the mating threads to eyeball the clearance.<br />Click image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /><br />I know it's not very scientific, but so far, it's been effective. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Glue it all Together with the Combine Command</b></div>
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For my final step, I combine the solids back into one. Now the part is ready to be exported as an STL file, and imported into your slicer. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQr4YQH0stvUNbl38IrGWCPgCUahluHk1tB_zaIY_0kEDYUmb3TTW7fz5Qk6NhjnxEU2ivCU4yzOAU8e-4ghYUZ7v9rn7DptjJOAcvx31KwRBFskCSeCsaMNOQdA9Uz5OXKQljg/s1600/06-Scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQr4YQH0stvUNbl38IrGWCPgCUahluHk1tB_zaIY_0kEDYUmb3TTW7fz5Qk6NhjnxEU2ivCU4yzOAU8e-4ghYUZ7v9rn7DptjJOAcvx31KwRBFskCSeCsaMNOQdA9Uz5OXKQljg/s400/06-Scale.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Combining the two solids back into one.<br />Click image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Speaking of slicers, I use <a href="https://www.simplify3d.com/" target="_blank">Simplify3D</a> at work. And what I've also found works best is to remove any supports that are automatically generated inside the thread. I've found they aren't needed, it's just that Simplify3D thinks they are. </div>
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And thus far, these guidelines have worked well for me. Feel free to take them and give them a try, and modify them as you see fit!<br /></div>
<div>
Good luck! I hope this is helpful! I hope you can take these ideas and use them as seeds to develop your own. </div>
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And please share your tricks with others! </div>
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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonlanderos/" target="_blank">Jonathan (Jon) Landeros</a><br /> </div>
Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com1Norwalk, CA, USA33.9022367 -118.0817329999999933.8495232 -118.16241399999998 33.954950200000006 -118.00105199999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-89831169983601026122019-05-31T14:58:00.002-07:002019-05-31T14:58:31.831-07:00Eighteen Months of 3D Printing - Where Have I Learned to Use It?Eighteen months ago, I took on the task of running the 3D printer at work. It's a <a href="https://www.fusion3design.com/" target="_blank">Fusion3 F400-S</a>, similar to the upgraded 410 shown on Fusion3's website.<br />
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It's a FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer, in other words, it melts plastic and lays it down one layer at a time until it produces the desired result. '<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BrnoOEblybU/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Jonathan Landeros (@jlanderos1973)</a> on <time datetime="2018-12-20T18:29:46+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Dec 20, 2018 at 10:29am PST</time></div>
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At least that's what's supposed to happen!<br />
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All I can say is that it's been fun, frustrating, rewarding, and discouraging at various stages of the journey. I've tasted the sweet joys of victory, and I've muttered the bitter "F-Bomb" of defeat.<br />
<br />
Most of all, I've realized that while I've learned a lot, I'm far from an expert. Because of that, I'm not going to tell you how to make a successful print. There are plenty of people who are doing that, and frankly, they are much more knowledgeable than I.<br />
<br />
But what I can share are my experiences watching our 3D printer making an impact in our design process. So here I go, showing a few places where having a 3D Printer has shown itself to be a helpful part of our design processes.<br />
<br />
One disclaimer before I get started. I can't share the real parts online. Words like "proprietary" and "security" start getting thrown around. So I have to use "surrogate" parts that represent the concept.<br />
<br />
Thanks in advance for bearing with me!<br />
<br />
<b>1) The "Show and Tell" </b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNWjXiw5W7jZsMks2KSsIyzq6dBqFtB_EnArCyt8UbFMhAnHXtiI2xpw4pP9LlogWvEgDPQSIhK88dQjxM81e7mDHFe5svYEGigTBjSJnabkafE_09LW18rTMBVVpyoPiNnsFhw/s1600/Part+in+Hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1478" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNWjXiw5W7jZsMks2KSsIyzq6dBqFtB_EnArCyt8UbFMhAnHXtiI2xpw4pP9LlogWvEgDPQSIhK88dQjxM81e7mDHFe5svYEGigTBjSJnabkafE_09LW18rTMBVVpyoPiNnsFhw/s320/Part+in+Hand.jpg" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's nothing like holding a represenation<br />
of the part in your hand.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I think of 3D printing, this is the first application that comes to my mind. It's simply a cosmetic print meant to give an idea of the "form and function" of the part. In our case, it didn't do anything but give everyone a sense of size and shape. <br />
<br />
This might seem simple at first. With 3D CAD Modeling tools, we can model our designs precisely. So why "waste time" printing a part that's just "for looking".<br />
<br />
Well, I know I've fallen victim to being able to zoom into a small screw until it looks like a table leg. And with that, comes a distortion of scale that can affect those of us that live in the real world.<br />
<br />
And I know I'm not the only one. I've heard more than one person say, "I really didn't think about big/small that part is!"<br />
<br />
A particular example comes to mind. I was in a meeting where the projected image of the CAD model rotating on the wall was completely ignored because engineers and customers were drawn to the 3D printed model that represented a much more tactile experience that couldn't be experienced with the 3D model.<br />
<br />
<b>2) The "Assembly Test" </b><br />
<br />
This print is in reality a series of parts that make up an assembly. It may even be a combination of real and printed parts.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGRS1p248xjktXf8_Xc_vYwS9zTFraq0rorTuLCeLZP32UhGurTMDEXDFNo80tmehoAN41bcmXQDYxSiYNQ7BZtEpKio4jnLpU1lNDNpC8s-IpGGX7iUuhon56JnY-ECQxYOffg/s1600/Part+with+fitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="1600" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGRS1p248xjktXf8_Xc_vYwS9zTFraq0rorTuLCeLZP32UhGurTMDEXDFNo80tmehoAN41bcmXQDYxSiYNQ7BZtEpKio4jnLpU1lNDNpC8s-IpGGX7iUuhon56JnY-ECQxYOffg/s320/Part+with+fitting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sample part with a real hydraulic fitting threaded into one hole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The purpose of this part is to ensure that the parts you've carefully designed can not only be put together, but put together easily.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxxgnaPEnUXaJBNqfqPLuhkd-G1mfhpJLcgjQ4cC8cG5MKc2I6EmHOMbO4OTuHZFi0X7WmXJ5tsUb7ADda9JEQw0VZrsYVE16l1978cefU1MgX7ai-hfr_kk4bVfSf4teVnXJIA/s1600/Part+with+wrench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1225" data-original-width="1600" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxxgnaPEnUXaJBNqfqPLuhkd-G1mfhpJLcgjQ4cC8cG5MKc2I6EmHOMbO4OTuHZFi0X7WmXJ5tsUb7ADda9JEQw0VZrsYVE16l1978cefU1MgX7ai-hfr_kk4bVfSf4teVnXJIA/s320/Part+with+wrench.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can see which fitting will have to get torqued in first! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For example, can a bolt be inserted into the bolt hole, and once in there, can the wrench follow up and turn the bolt once it's in the hole.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Tooling and Covers</b><br />
<br />
I've lumped these tooling and protective covers into the same category, partially because the two sometimes blend into each other, at least where I work.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPZQ_dVj6qMb6rb_NFggjj3o0w4GaeuWxopbZZXOEk9VaEQJBBRZp2olFSuWUpSpoMtWeKI4ngQ7AtNXhy0I-8TPxZEnYF8ubIbJog9MIu-zOVEEpJKJ8fNf0fsNBOuqgOLfXPQ/s1600/Protective+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="890" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPZQ_dVj6qMb6rb_NFggjj3o0w4GaeuWxopbZZXOEk9VaEQJBBRZp2olFSuWUpSpoMtWeKI4ngQ7AtNXhy0I-8TPxZEnYF8ubIbJog9MIu-zOVEEpJKJ8fNf0fsNBOuqgOLfXPQ/s320/Protective+cover.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a protective cover that has a unique shape</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Because the 3D CAD model exists, it can be relatively quick to create a negative of the part, then print that negative as quickly as a few hours.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SimhKOvZaPeKGDO84GUByFDSi9pJJM2nJcbkNKU9BMufj_W6aOpAH4LDfnJ0UC4LH0fWXLD7GHFH-CSGGl_F1Oqo2qcbxP2QMBq2FtfhrN1zPUE-3PbrpZH7RME8PXobmfbj5g/s1600/Full+tooling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1440" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SimhKOvZaPeKGDO84GUByFDSi9pJJM2nJcbkNKU9BMufj_W6aOpAH4LDfnJ0UC4LH0fWXLD7GHFH-CSGGl_F1Oqo2qcbxP2QMBq2FtfhrN1zPUE-3PbrpZH7RME8PXobmfbj5g/s320/Full+tooling.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a cradle created by creating<br />
a negative of the part. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sometimes these shapes are odd or unique, and can't be easily duplicated by the machine shop, or frankly, the machine shop just doesn't have the time to make them.<br />
<br />
In any case, 3D printing provided us with the ability to create odd geometry quickly, without disrupting other operations.<br />
<br />
<b>In Conclusion</b><br />
<br />
My intention here was just to share a few cases where I've found 3D printing helpful. By no means is it comprehensive. If anything, I hope it provides a few ideas, and dare I say, inspiration.<br />
<br />
I think it's also important that we bear in mind that 3D printing is a new tool that can supplement existing tools. Don't by a 3D printer thinking that you'll be able to shut down your machine shop, woodshop, or welding shop. .<br />
<br />
So take these ideas and make them you're own. And feel free to share in a comment if you have a good use for 3D printing in your home or office.<br />
<br />
<b>Acknowledgements</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Valve body modeled in <a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview#banner" target="_blank">Autodesk Fusion 360</a> using plans from my <a href="https://aircorpslibrary.com/" target="_blank">Aircorps Library</a> subscription</li>
<li>Hardware downloaded from <a href="https://www.mcmaster.com/" target="_blank">McMaster Carr</a></li>
</ul>
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<br />Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Whittier, CA, USA33.9791793 -118.0328440000000133.8738418 -118.19420550000001 34.084516799999996 -117.87148250000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30982613.post-80368797938522316172019-03-20T21:42:00.001-07:002019-03-20T21:42:37.848-07:00Thank Goodness for Fusion 360's Document Recovery!I start work pretty early this morning, 6AM to be precise. <div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7TPH0siFJeYBQ742Yxw0F61tr1EwJ6PB8cLsDkpvSlr46n4MUwgPysnTISr8JQu9Fu_VljzRx53n2fAL-79RMmzsfNKytGVAznGzSyi58HTmg0zqoL1m7_LutxsaZmhdMJvB-g/s1600/Coffee+Mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="150" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7TPH0siFJeYBQ742Yxw0F61tr1EwJ6PB8cLsDkpvSlr46n4MUwgPysnTISr8JQu9Fu_VljzRx53n2fAL-79RMmzsfNKytGVAznGzSyi58HTmg0zqoL1m7_LutxsaZmhdMJvB-g/s200/Coffee+Mug.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee.. The "Go-Juice to start<br />any day.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />That means I usually get up around 4:30, get dressed, and make a little coffee to prime the pumps, so to speak. </div>
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If I have time, I read a little news on the computer before jumping in the car and braving the Los Angeles traffic. </div>
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This morning, I my laptop announced that Windows needed to install an update and restart. Just as I was leaving for work, I told Windows to go ahead run through the update process. </div>
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<div>
I knew I had saved all my documents... Including that Fusion 360 part I had been working on the night before. Of course I saved.... right???? RIGHT???<br /></div>
<div>
Sure enough. At lunch, I open up Fusion 360 to take a look at my part. I'm going to bathe in the the power of the cloud and all the power of accessibility it grants me! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And I see a blank screen when I open my document. That part I was so sure I had saved???? I hadn't. </div>
<div>
<br />I mentally shrug and accept that I'll have to redraw the part. It wasn't complicated and it will only take a few minutes to recreate. But still, the CAD version of "Groundhog Day" is never fun. </div>
<div>
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<div>
Once I get home, I opened up Fusion 360, considering recreating my geometry, and with the voice of angels, the document recovery screen appears. <br /><br />And it includes the part I had forgotten to save! <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhDSxrRVC0syaZF7ie31UPvSwQo9MiUfU-G7RSjVQhLXGYiip1RlkUYTUOPpWCDo13yQsxyf2KKmUL9jGooOTLk34mLn17OIuZHGuJw0eepTX2cuE2GEba2G-p4smOyrytIOMiw/s1600/Autosave.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="265" data-original-width="382" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhDSxrRVC0syaZF7ie31UPvSwQo9MiUfU-G7RSjVQhLXGYiip1RlkUYTUOPpWCDo13yQsxyf2KKmUL9jGooOTLk34mLn17OIuZHGuJw0eepTX2cuE2GEba2G-p4smOyrytIOMiw/s320/Autosave.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The File Recovery screen. Note this image doesn't contain<br />the filename for my recovered file. In my excitement, I had already recovered it.<br />I didn't have the courage to try to re-break it to see if it would recover again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All I had to do was right click, choose open, and bask in the joyful joy-ness of File Recovery. </div>
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File Recovery pops up when there are files auto-saved on your computer. It's a handy reminder there is potential data that can be salvaged. </div>
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It can also be manually by choosing the "Recover Documents" option from the File pulldown. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSIdju3TYE1wnfv3r6SV3nyTT1hC2nFI8-_8ziCTHyVRTDob2G3tpdBr1irMVO6nAEMRFzDi_Ai68nxOj19yZOv0NgWiMaCbEvTYPqIfIzwJxKdZV21tHd8sIew5V1dKR10vTRA/s1600/Recover+Docs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="585" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSIdju3TYE1wnfv3r6SV3nyTT1hC2nFI8-_8ziCTHyVRTDob2G3tpdBr1irMVO6nAEMRFzDi_Ai68nxOj19yZOv0NgWiMaCbEvTYPqIfIzwJxKdZV21tHd8sIew5V1dKR10vTRA/s320/Recover+Docs.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Locating the "Recover Documents" screen manually</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Regardless whether or not it's access at startup, or manually from the pulldown, it can be a great way to recover lost work in case of computer/software crash, or if, as in my case, a forgotten file save!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nOv2YL05PGfXbTQBZPIZvlH0Fw0vo8whDn-LztuZTpsDV2viIJ0SGez1HQQ5ZgBWy80sIy-KIrK_nJ5E3T-aZAR0AlPLy-wO3PzSKXia6IbVA1IKKoK8v1dsESBfyxHpEfB7Pw/s1600/Final+Recovery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1113" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nOv2YL05PGfXbTQBZPIZvlH0Fw0vo8whDn-LztuZTpsDV2viIJ0SGez1HQQ5ZgBWy80sIy-KIrK_nJ5E3T-aZAR0AlPLy-wO3PzSKXia6IbVA1IKKoK8v1dsESBfyxHpEfB7Pw/s320/Final+Recovery.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boy am I glad I didn't have to rebuild this geometry!<br />(note the part name states its "Recovered"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Additional Photo Credits<br /><br />photo credit: wuestenigel <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/30478819@N08/46154681592">What's the worst thing that could happen?</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com/">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">(license)</a></div>
Jonathan Landeroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06199133267550586672noreply@blogger.com0Whittier, CA, USA33.9791793 -118.0328440000000133.8738418 -118.19420550000001 34.084516799999996 -117.87148250000001