I recall loading an old AutoSketch v2 into my computer that was running Windows XP. It worked well, and would load a DWG file with a very large point-cloud in a fraction of the time that it took AutoCAD v2004. Sometimes older is better.
Buy the way, for free CAD, I suggest Dassault's...
I had started a thread a few years ago, looking for alternatives to AutoCAD, that were able to create Dynamic Blocks. Apparently Autodesk has successfully patented the concept, so in the U.S. there is no true alternative. Though, since we have the rights to our data, I imagine someone should be...
With the cost of laser scanning coming down, I have been researching what the cost entry-point is now for this technology.
I came across the Zeb Rivo and Zeb 1 scanners by GeoSLAM. My notes must be messed up, because I have the base scanners, Zeb1 at $2,500 and the Zeb Revo at $$2,360 . But...
A lot depends on the industry you are working in, and its needs. One of my jobs is to design refrigeration chambers that are constructed of panels that fasten together.
I considered going 3D. But, an accurate and precise drawing of how it would look is not that useful. Instead I want to see an...
Thank you for your comments.
I realize TurboCAD and other systems may be viable. But, am trying hard to keep this system within the familiar world of AutoCAD, and its work-alikes. I can readily get employees who are already familiar with it, and don't have to get them up to speed on a new...
JNieman, I understand that export/import fidelity have become better over the years, they are also not perfect. There is normally something that doesn't quite translate. E.g. do the external reference, PDF/Raster inserts, block attributes, dynamic blocks, etc translate? A lot of the value of a...
I originally started this topic in closed thread555-355634
My final conclusion was that GStarCAD was the only non-Autodesk solution, and that still seems to be the case. But I bring the topic up again, in hopes that perhaps one of the 3rd parties have updated their software so that it can...
It has been many years since I was was involved with a project involving inductive sensors, and my memory of the high the cost had put me off, since I would need 5 of them for each axis. But, your message prompted me to re-investigate them. I see now that they are available for as cheap as $17...
I don't have any experience designing this type of cam system, an am wondering if I may be wanting to misuse this type of micro switch.
It happens to be a McMaster 7539K5, but I am asking about this general type of switch, rather than this specific model.
My application is for a fairly large...
ryanmech said, " we just don't have the space for an external motor. "
If you do not come up with an easier solution using the existing motors, or by re-winding, I think a motor outside of the vacuum is the next best choice.
The "external" motor does not necessarily need to be put outside the...
Since you don't need a hard vacuum, and you are constantly pumping gas out of the chamber anyway, why not run a shaft from an internal fan, to a motor on the outside of the chamber. That would seem to solve several engineering issues.
And just because I often enjoy speculating on ideas that are...
I had a similar past, and in fact left a stable drafting job when I realized that I was never going to be permitted to do any true engineering work. But, then I still didn't find any engineering work for many years. I ended up with the job at I have now because it was a long-time friend I had...
Compositepro, in general I agree that part shopping can require a complex process that is not amiable to a filtering system. However, there is certainly a certain category of shopping that does work with filtering.
E.g. if I go to McMaster, and want to get a 1/4" x 1" bolt. Better than 95%...
Thanks for the Automation direct link, it definitely is the best I have seen for pneumatics.
It is not quite as extensive a list of pneumatic components as some sites, but the search filters and prices have now made it my "go to" site for automation. It had the spec sheets, and even 3D models...
I don't normally work with pneumatics, and am frustrated with the sites I am coming across as I search the net for components. Ideally, I would find a vendor with an online catalog that has a good search tool, and includes the technical literature and prices on the components. Currently I am...
If it is not a good way to control speed, then perhaps I should consider the "loose belt" approach to just disengaging the motor from the drive system. Then, for more control over the process, a separate cable brake system, operated by a hand operated lever, like a car's parking brake.
But...
While the device does hold something off the ground, this component would only control its rotation. And while one side would go down, we don't expect to grab the load too far off from center. So, the load on the side moving down would be perhaps 15 pounds. But, my goal would be for a smooth...
Here is a sketch of what I had in mind. The lever on the tension pulley allows the belt to slip when it is desired. In my case, it would only be used when the drive pulley is stopped, so there would not be much slippage. The pulleys are going fairly slow even when driven, with the driven...
