Introduction
Vect3D is a truly innovative CAD design approach using FreeCAD 0.20 software. It sets itself apart from traditional approaches. Vect3D design style is inspired by the creative working style of scientists, senior design engineers, architects & artists; mainly hand sketches.
What makes Vect3D superior is its vector-based design approach which has its roots in classical design methods. This unique approach is supported by real-time computational capabilities, which allow for faster and more accurate design iterations. By using Vect3D, designers can create highly detailed and precise 3D models that are optimized for manufacturing and production, making it an invaluable tool in today's modern design industry.
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Background
Classic Design Process:
Before the evolution of Solid Modelling / 3D software, all engineering designs & drawings were prepared manually as 2D drawings, using drawing boards. This can be considered to be the “Classic Design Process” of engineering design. Engineers had to visualize design from 2D drawings & this skill was referred to as “drawing reading” & “drawing visualization”.
Limitations of the Classic Design Process:
Classic Design process was essentially manual & restricted to 2D presentations. It depended on visualization skills & drawing reading skills. Computations associated with the design process had to be manual.
Existing CAD Processes:
Many leading organizations offer solid-modeling CAD software. Existing CAD approaches are classified into two main groups: Bottom-Up & Top-Down.
In the Bottom-Up Design approach, various part CAD models are prepared at the start of the design process. CAD assembly tool generates an assembly model with these predefined part models or components, using appropriate assembly-constraints. This is a conventional solid-modeling style & is useful in design validation.
In the Top-Down Design approach, the final assembly acts as a reference for part design. In some software, part models are created in assembly w.r.t. adjacent parts at its desired location (“in-context modeling”).
Some software offer skeleton-based modeling. In this approach, a surface model or 3D sketch is used as a reference for part modeling & assembly.
Limitations of existing CAD Processes:
Existing CAD software & their approaches are mostly centered around solid-models & surfaces. These provide a good tool for visualization. However, these drift away from creative people’s favorite tool- “sketches”.
The computational base of most CAD software does not provide real-time complex computations (like vector calculations) required during the design process.
Requirements of an Ideal CAD Process
· 3D Line models: 3D Sketch / Skeleton based CAD process
· Mathematical Computational base with Spreadsheets
· Solid Modelling: Part Design & Assembly
· Animation at Skeleton & Solid Model stages
Comparison Chart- CAD Software:
Vect 3D Approach
Vect3D is an integrated approach that combines 3D abstract model/ skeleton with mathematical computations or vector analysis.
Vect3D combines 3D abstract model/ skeleton with mathematical computations (or vector analysis) with Spreadsheets (parametric design) & animation. The concept skeleton is prepared using a sketcher & reviewed for motion study, mechanism analysis, technical feasibility & motion envelope study, etc.
Vect3D is useful for abstract models as well as final product design. It can also be useful in fields like Physics, Theory of Machines, Mechanics, Mechanism analysis & academics.
Thus, Vector3D is an innovative design style, that runs a few extra miles.
Vect 3D Features
Vect3D uses the following FreeCAD 0.20 features:
· Assembly4 Workbench
· Local Coordinate Systems (LCS)
· Datum (Point, Line, Plane)
· Master-sketches
· Variables
· Spreadsheets
· Animation
· Maths & Trigonometric Functions
Master-sketches are abstract representations of structures & motion. Every motion or structure needs a unique sketch. Thus, a set of sketches forms an abstract model of a machine or mechanism.
Highlights of Vect3D Style
· 3D models as skeleton for design concepts or Abstraction
· Skeleton Animation for concept review
· Vector Analysis & Mathematical computing using Spreadsheets
· Option of parametric modeling
· Based on recent FreeCAD 0.20 version features
· Useful for concept design as well as the final design
Vect3D CAD Approach: Basics
Vect3D is an integrated approach that combines 3D abstract model/ skeleton with mathematical computations or vector analysis. Concept skeleton is prepared using a sketcher & reviewed for motion study, mechanism analysis, technical feasibility & motion envelope study, etc.
It uses the following FreeCAD 0.20 features:
· Assembly4 Workbench
· Local Coordinate Systems (LCS)
· Datum (Point, Line, Plane)
· Master-sketches
· Variables
· Spreadsheets
· Animation
· Maths & Trigonometric Functions
Master-sketches are abstract representations of structures & motion. Every motion or structure needs a unique sketch. Thus, a set of sketches forms an abstract model of a machine or mechanism.
Spreadsheets are used for functions like design-parameter inputs & Vector Calculations. FreeCAD Spreadsheet work-bench is supported by a strong library of mathematical functions. This provides real-time calculations related to datum & dimensions required for complex 3D models.
LCS are necessary for assembly or superimposition of part models to skeleton
Animation in abstract model/ skeleton is a unique feature of FreeCAD. It provides a good tool for concept review & motion envelope study. Animation of the complete model is also available for design validation.
Illustration of Vect3D approach
Illustration: Three Actuator Gantry
Vect3D applications
Vect3D approach helps in Machine or Mechanism review for the following aspects:
· Development of innovative design concept
· Feasibility Study
· Design Validation
· Motion Envelope study
· Proper Space Utilization
· Design Optimization
· Actuator Validation w.r.t. vendor specifications
· Design Time Saving
· Project Cost saving
Vect3D design approach is most suited for a complex mechanism in 3D or an innovative approach.
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