Modeling cylinder head ports in SolidWorks

[RexAtHighSpeed]

I am considering purchasing SolidWorks to model the intake and exhaust ports and combustion chambers for analysis in CFD. I have experience in modeling them successfully in Pro/E but I cannot afford Pro/E! Has anyone modeled them with success in SolidWorks? Was the model parametric? i.e. - was it easily modified?

Thanks!

 

[ctopher]

I have never modeled one, but if I had it would be very easy to modify it. It would be parametric.

Chris
SolidWorks/PDMWorks 08 3.1
AutoCAD 08
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[ShaggyPE]

My asumption is that you would make use of swept cuts and/or lofts for the ports. I too have not modelled one, but I have no reason to believe that it can't be done. I am sure many people here could make short work of one given the necessary parameters. My guess is your ProE experience will make the task in SolidWorks fairly simple... The methods should be similar.

-Dustin
Professional Engineer
Certified SolidWorks Professional
Certified COSMOSWorks Designer Specialist
Certified SolidWorks Advanced Sheet Metal Specialist

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Are you comparing Pro/E 2001 (or similar) or Wildfire?
I thought Wildfire was comparable cost to SW.

Do you have a Pro/E created sample to test in SW?

 

[m1mason]

that's a good suggestion. try opening the ProE file in swx. It can open them intelligently too, with features and sketches. It has a good chance of failing since it's complex, but give it a shot.

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[RexAtHighSpeed]

Great suggestions. I've got a generic model I can open in SolidWorks but I haven't purchased a license. I suppose I'll have to talk to the sales rep...

Thanks for the advice everybody!

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Post here if you need a quick test.