Connecting rod split weight in simulation?

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I'm trying to calculate a connecting rod's split weight. Normally this would be measured by manufacturing the rod and placing it in a jig with one end held in a pivot and other over a scale like so:

I'll be machining connecting rods and a crankshaft and would like to do this in simulation to estimate proper bob weight for the crankshaft. So far I've tried adding gravity and a pin constraint, but Fusion freaks out and even if it didn't I'm not sure how I could see the weight experienced at the small end.

Does anyone know how to accomplish what I'm looking to do?

Thank you!

[tyler_henderson · Accepted solution]

I don't know all of the lingo you are using but I assume you're wanting to measure the weight on the piston pin (small end).  You could do this by actually modeling the piston pin, then use Fix Constraints on the ends of the piston pin, and apply a Separation Contact between the piston pin and the connecting rod.  Do everything else the same as you have (Pin constraint on other end and Gravity turned On).  Then in the Results you can measure the Reactions on the piston pin Fix Constraints.  See the attached image.

I hope this helps.

[Anonymous]

Thank you, the numbers came out rational this time and are close to my estimate.