Offset or rotation for threads (useful for 3D printing)

[Anonymous]

I am trying to make sure that two pieces screw together correctly and line up, as there is a part that should match up when fully tightened (or at least get really close). Usually this just works, but sometimes I run into an issue where the threads don't line up, even though they are both the same direction. In this case, it would be really helpful to either be able to rotate the starting point of the thread, or offset the thread vertically (same effect), to line up the threads as I need. I can see this being especially handy for 3d printed parts.

This would address forum posts like this: https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/design-validate-document/aligning-two-threaded-parts/m-p/5985021/high...

[Anonymous]

Yes! I came here looking for this exact thing.  I often use threads in my 3D printed models and have the same issue.  I've had to use kludgy work-arounds to get the desired alignment.  It would be really useful to have a thread offset or “start point rotation” modifier.

[michaelteeuw]

I've got the exact same issue. Is there a solution or workaround for this?

[Anonymous]

@michaelteeuw The only work-around that I've been able to come up with is to rotate the body until it lines up.  Only works if the body itself has circular symmetry.  If not, you could try intersecting the body with a cylinder, rotating that, and then joining it back to the rest of the body.  Painful, I know.

[fredgenius]

I have the same problem! Would be nice just to specify a rotation angle for the start of the thread, maybe a drag handle gizmo like we have for other features.

My work-around is, use section analysis to view a cross-section of the threads, then I can see roughly how much I need to rotate to make the threads line up. Then I rotate the object before I apply the thread feature, rotate back after by the same amount. Pita, but it works.

[fredgenius]

Another work-around is to create the thread on the first object, then combine/cut with the second object using the first as the tool. You might need to offset the faces of the thread on one or the other, so there is enough clearance. Still, would be better just to rotate the start position to match the first thread's start. Maybe an align option on the thread create panel? Just pick the first thread as the align target... Maybe call it 'Sync Starts'...

[Anonymous]

I can't believe how long ago this was brought up. Is there still not a clean solution to this problem?

Rotating the body seems like the best bet so far. Thanks, @Anonymous.

[acrbjr]

I had the same issue with screws brought in from McMaster-Carr because these screws will likely not line up with the threaded holes created by Fusion 360.  This is a problem in performing static stress studies, because in most cases there will be an interference between the threaded hole and the screw.  My suggestion is to write a simple program to rotate the screw in a do loop until there is no interference.