roller chain model

[abeschneider]

Has anyone attempted to create a model of roller chain in 3D? Any hints on how to approach the modelling process?

I can imagine a range of approaches, from very simple and "representative" to very detailed. I'd like to end up with a model that is parametric to the extent of being able to change the chain size (ie: 1/2", 3/4" pitch), length (# pitches), and width (duplex, triplex,...). I don't necesarily care if the model is made from individual pins, links, rollers, and bushings, per se, although it would be nice if there's a way to do this without creating a real monster of an assembly file.

Thanks for any thoughts.

 

[DBezaire]

Abeschneider - My apologies for lack of knowledge, I work in tool and mold. I will use a bicycle chain as the example. Create each piece as a separate CATPart. Chain is made of three parts. Make a blank product, create a seed part. This will be used for the centre (from Canada eh) line of the chain. Create a sketch with the spline (in construction mode) and the points (not in construction). Use a coincidence constraint from the point to spline, then constrain the points at the given pitch you would like. I would create a parameter for most of these variables in the seed part. Create a new solid called pin location. Create a solid hole (size does not matter) as this will be used for the Reuse Pattern feature in Assembly mode. Insert your Pin component, constrain the centre line of the initial hole in the seed part to the centre line of pin. Assembly-- reuse pattern and select the user pattern created in the seed part.
End of the day for me - I will finish the rest in the morning.

Regards,
Derek

 

[klaas2]

what a seed part?

 

[DBezaire]

Klaas2 - A seed part could be used to control a sub assembly (constraints, parameters, planes, sketches...)

Regards,
Derek

 

[klaas2]

mmm

still do not understand
meaby a thing like parent child relation?
do you have a example?
in catia?

as i am also thinking of making chain
but then also in kinamatics
wonder how it works when chaining gears
or you could see how it shifts?
also at certain rpm´s