How do I design a weldment?

[jeevesme]

Since we do not have a way to automatically generate welds ( http://forums.autodesk.com/t5/ideastation-request-a-feature-or/create-welds-automatically/idi-p/5274...) , I'm trying to find out the best way to design a weldment in my drawings.  Does anyone have a good way to do it? 

[promm]

@jeevesme,

If you are looking for a way to show welds I would suggest creating the profile for your weld as a sketch and extrude or sweep the profile to visually create a weld.  If you would like to take it one step further you can apply a decal to the face of the feature.

http://autode.sk/2dQn1la

Regards,

Mike Prom

[jeevesme]

Thanks prom.  That's how I do it now.  I didn't know if there was a more efficient way to do it to make it look more like an actual weld.  I have attempted to create a custom material in the appearance panel by using the "Material Editor" but I cannot figure out how to make it work.  I've went through dozens of posts but could not find out what I need to do as far as creating a realistic looking weld.  I know how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator so I should be able to do it.  I have attached an example of what I am trying to do.  When I apply it to the geometry, it's not even close to what I'm looking for.

1. Does it just use gradients to mimic depth? 

2. What size does the image need to be in order to mimic a 1/2" weld?

3. Does it go in the "Cutout" or "Relief Pattern (Bump)" ?

[promm]

@jeevesme,

If you have an image (use as color) and Bump map you can create a custom material that will accomplish what you are looking for.

Regards,

Mike Prom

[PhilProcarioJr]

@jeevesme

Like this?

[jeevesme]

see below

[jeevesme]

This is what I was looking for.  Can you post how you did it?  It looks like you created a couple sketches and extrusions.  This would be very tedious on large projects with many welds.  Right now I am just creating a sketch and sweeping.  Ideally I would just use the materials editor to make the appearance of a weld but I don't know how to use it.

[jeevesme]

As far as the bump map, what traits does it need?  Black and white with significant contrast?

---

If you have an image (use as color) and Bump map you can create a custom material that will accomplish what you are looking for.

[PhilProcarioJr · Accepted solution]

@jeevesme

It's pretty easy to do but not as easy as a texture. The reason I don't use textures is because the UV tools in Fusion are lacking and I only get the look I want when the weld is straight.

I made a set of weld files at different lengths so usually I just drag and drop them into my assembly and scale them as needed. For me its fast and easy.