sweeps and error messages

[KFrankenberger]

A lot of times when I am building sweeps I get an error message that states: "The specified sweep profile intersects with the work axis. Try different inputs". Sometimes a similar input of profile and path works and other times it doesn't. Can anyone explain exactly what this error message means? What am I doing wrong?

[JDMather]

The best way to discuss this might be to attach a file that exhibits this behavior.

In general, create the path to the inside of your profile rather than the middle or outside if you encounter this error.

[KFrankenberger]

here is the print screen of what i am doing. i got the sweep to work finally, but i am not sure what i did so differently to make it work. in this pic it is not working and you can see the error message.

[JDMather]

I am not familiar with editing png files in Inventor.

I would need actual ipt file.

I would use 2D sketches to create 3D sketches - much easier to edit.
Are the bend radii large enough for the bends?

[KFrankenberger]

oh ok. here it is. thanks!

[Curtis_Waguespack]

Hi KFrankenberger,

From the image it appears that the profile diameter would "kink" back onto itself as it tries to turn the corner of each of your bends, and that is the source of the error. Reducing the diameter of the profile, or increasing the radius of the bends will likely solve this.

I hope this helps.
Best of luck to you in all of your Inventor pursuits,
Curtis
http://inventortrenches.blogspot.com

[JDMather]

Maybe this image will help illustrate the problem.

Note the largest circle that could "turn the corner" would have a zero radius inside bend.
Anything larger than that would result in a self-intersecting "kink" in the real world.

[KFrankenberger]

Thanks!