Roller Chain Model

[aitchem]

Hi,
I am trying to model a roller chain.
Like a bike chain
They are in a complete circle.
How do I array the links to get the exact diameter.?
I have tried calculating the pcd from the 152mm pitch
I have tried calculating the radius from the pitch x number of links, the smallest error is thrown out by Solidworks.
Any Ideas.?

thanks
Howard

 

[rollupswx]

Something like this? see attached Got the catenary on wrong side - I can tell you it wasn't easy if you actually want it to move. Otherwise a curve driven pattern works.

 

[rollupswx]

Supply the pitch information, the pitch diameters of the sprockets, distance between centers and the formula you are using to calculate the chain length (don't put in the calculated number - use the formula)for the path.

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

That's a very nice rendered animation, JD. One of yours? What software was used?

aitchem ... To save time, can you ZIP and post the parts and assy for review?

 

[williedawg]

not sure what you mean by "thrown out"

if you array a straight segment around a circle, you will always get an error.....it's all about Pi !

I ran into this same "problem" and ended up using a Mate to locate an axis of one link to the next within a tolerance, however this was only on the sprocket that I wanted to be dimensionally correct; when the chain went to a straight line, the links were exactly pitched, e.g. axis of one link mated to the next.

 

[aitchem]

Thanks Folks,
Thanks wiliedawg
The tip about mate tolerances will crack it I think.

Howard