Portfolio Piece: SolidWorks Modeling
Over the past three years I have learned to use SolidWorks as my computer modeling tool of choice. Initially starting out with solids based models and working from the start to create models which practice proper design intent I have come a long way and developed a comprehensive understanding of the programs features and how to use each of them. More recently I have undertook learning surface based modeling techniques to model organic and aerodynamic shapes. Below I have included renders and screenshots from a few projects. The rendering with the blue background is of a actual Francis style runner for a hydro electric turbine. Working from physical blueprints I have digitized the model to create a accurate representation of the design in CAD. After translating the design into a surface based model, I noticed the surfaces based off of the blueprints could benefit from a fair amount of optimization to help make them more hydrologically efficient. This process included optimizing the surfaces to achieve as uniform curvature as possible while still maintaing the original dimensions of the turbine within +/-0.050 inches. The client thus far has been very happy with the project and we are continuing to develop the product this turbine will sit in one day.
While these are just a few examples of the models I have worked on, I am proficient at working with more complicated models and assemblies with many pieces as was required while working on the EV-XI project. The models demonstrate the basis for my skills and I hope to further develop them even through continued work with the program. The models below lack some of the complexity of full blown ready for manufacturing products, but I'm confident that given the chance I could accurately translate complicated designs and work to refine them in the digital world. Much of my focus has been spent on using proper modeling techniques rather than creating eye candy that when a single thing is tweaked the model will break. The bicycle chainring below is one example of a equation based model that automatically rebuilds for different teeth counts. The tooth profile is based on the ANSI standard for roller chain and although the inputs for the model are configured for bicycle chain, the model could easily be tweaked to use and size of standard chain. I am also in the process of learning to use the simulations capabilities built in to SolidWorks. I have done work with the static FEA components, fluid simulation and thermal analysis tools to help validate designs. Please feel free to ask me any questions if you'd like.
