Modeling Tubular Frames 1

[DgenR8]

Hi all,

I was wondering what the common method is for modeling a tubular frame, ie. a rollcage in a car.

I have been working with the "pipe" protrusion option, and making nodes with datum points where the members come together. This works good, but problems arise when there is a junction of more than one tube at a node. I'm having a hard time figuring out how to make a new tube butt up against the existing tubes without running through them. (I want something similar to the "Extrude --> Up to surface" functionality).

I'm just trying to get an idea on what methods others use for these types of models.

Thanks!

 

[Recneps]

Assuming you have low-level surfacing capability, you could create surfaces out of the pipe exteriors, then if the surfaces still intersected, you can trim the surfaces.

Unfortunately, the standard pipe functionality is pretty limited. I know of no 'Up to Surface' function in the standard pipe functionality. I posted a question some time back regarding being able to specify a flared end feature on a pipe...for mating to another pipe of the same size. My assumption is that the Pro/PIPING module could allow more funtionality for our issues, but I don't have enough work to justify it.

Without Pro/PIPING, I can't even create parametric bend tables for drawings...something I thought would be standard functionality.

Recneps

 

[DgenR8]

Recneps, I think surfaces would work well.

I'll sweep a circular x-section over a datum curve. This is just like using the "pipe" function, except you have to use a few more keystrokes. Then I can merge the surfaces to get rid of the extra material.

Thanks!