I need help to understand how to modify attached model

[Anonymous]

Hi Folks,

So, I've gotten myself into somewhat of a pickle. I have this part I need to make on my 3 axis CNC.  I've managed to draw it in a way that tools can't actually reach certain surfaces. I'd like to modify this part so inside walls are oriented in line with the Z axis, as well as the holes around the part. I'm at a loss as to how to go about modifying the part. Would it be better if I just start from scratch?

I plan on using 3D surfacing toolpaths for the majority of the work and standard drilling cycles for the holes.

On the swept model in the second attached drawing, I modified it to work on the ends, it won't work on the sides now, and if I get it to work on the sides, well you get the point.

The 'Flange Sketch' in the first attached file is the profile I used originally and works on the sides.

Please let me know if further info or details would help; and what they would be.

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance

[TrippyLighting]

I am not sure what you feel is wrong with the model.

Its you do a section analysis that swept model looks perfectly fine to me.

Edit: after re-reading you post I think I get it ... maybe. Could you make a hand sketch of what exactly you are looking for ?

[Anonymous]

I'm not sure a hand sketch would be any more helpful than the drawing.

I can try to explain what I need though.

If you go to the Right View ( in Modified Flange) and zoom in on the left or right side, you can see the wall of the inter most part of the Sketch leans inward, (the origin being at the center of the drawing).

That wall (and other elements of the drawing) need to be vertical, a toolpath with a Z spindle being vertical will not see the under cut the drawing creates.

I'll explain more if needed, also I, will see if I can figure out a way to illustrate this.

Let me know if this helps or not.

Thank you for looking, Allen

[TrippyLighting]

Thanks for the explanation!

You cannot achieve that with a step, as a sweep is limited to one profile.

However, you do need more than one profile so you'll have to do a loft with rails.

I'll see if I can do this successful with your model and then create a screencast. A loft with rials can be somewhat intimidating 😉

[JDMather]

Model a surface body (Extruded surface)  in the Patch environment for the centerline of the toolpath.

Trim the bottom of the Extruded surface to the arced bottom.

Thicken and then Combine-Subtract.

Then Fillet the bottom.

[JDMather]

After looking at the model a bit longer - I see where other issues have been introduced.

I think if you follow a modeling technique more like the machining process - you will get the desired geometry.

Are you going to machine this in a flat state and then bend

or

are you going to machine in finished state (no bending)?

[Anonymous]

Peter (I think I read some where your name was Peter),

I look forward to anything you can do for me.

JD, the curve on the bottom isn't going to be on the finished part.

It will be machined on a gantry flat on the deck.

All I need is the top part of the model and inside/outside cutouts.

I should have mentioned this earlier, I've been using F360 for two weeks now.

I will need some hand-holding (a screen cast, or perhaps a tutorial) to employ suggestion.

I realize a smart fellow (or Gal), would start with simple objects and work from there!

Trust me to run to the deep end of the pool and jump in, (without checking to see how much water is there).

Thanks for your interest and help.

[TrippyLighting · Accepted solution]

The way I modeled this is more in line with what @JDMather suggested.

Hopefully the screencast in combination with the model does enough explaining.

[Anonymous]

Thanks so very much for this screen cast, it looks like a very interesting approach; and I look forward to understanding it.

I'll be a while taking this all in.

Again, thank you, Allen

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I've had a chance to 'unpack' this screen cast and study the model.

I would have NEVER come to this on my own!

I wanted to say, this will be an important building block for future modeling done in my case.

It's just amazing how many ways you can create a model in these CAD programs today.

It's equally amazing how I can manage to fail at creating models when I try.

(I'll keep at it just the same, maybe one day I can be more accomplished).

Thank you again for this extremely informative screen cast and taking the time to make it for me.

-Allen

[JDMather · Accepted solution]

My attempt (I didn't look at Trippy's yet).

[TrippyLighting]

Very nice and lean approach!

[Anonymous]

JD,

Another huge thank you for this contribution, equally informative model.

Now I have two approaches to work with going forward. (Better than I could have expected).

Studying both, I can envision times when one might work better than the other, having both to fall back on will be very helpful.

Again, I can't thank both of you enough, Allen

[JDMather]

I was able to remove two more features and make a bit more robust response to edits.