Where start with this shape HVAC Control knob

[james_rg]

A friend's HVAC control knob from his old car has broken, he could buy on from a scrap dealer but I thought it was an interesting shape to try and model.

I could make a reasonably clunky but functional version in the model environment, but I'm guessing surface/sculpting would be better to replicate these scalloped curves circled in red.

Heater Knob

I can't really find anything on YouTube where someone has modelled such an item. I normally find something similar and work from that.

It's about 40mm diameter, but just a steer on where to start would be handy, the behind the scenes stuff is easy, and angular so the model environment is fine for that, but making this top surface is where I'm stuck and am very keen to learn.

Any hints/tips gratefully received.

Best regards,

James

[TheCADWhisperer · Accepted solution]

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@james_rg wrote:

1. I could make a reasonably clunky but functional version in the model environment, but I'm guessing surface/sculpting would be better 

2. ...but making this top surface is where I'm stuck and am very keen to learn.

3. Any hints/tips gratefully received.

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1. File>Export and then Attach the *.f3d file of your attempt here.

2.  See #1.

3. Nothing special in this geometry - it can easily be modeled entirely in model environment.

Revolve

Extrude

Face Draft

Fillet

Done!

BTW - this forum is to report bugs, the correct forum for modeling techniques is >>over here<<.

[james_rg]

Many thanks for the reply, I'll be back at my desk on Monday and upload the stl. I think FaceDraft function is probably the bit I've forgotten to make use of.

James

[TheCADWhisperer]

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@james_rg wrote:

... and upload the stl

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Stl is not of interest.  Upload the native *.f3d file.

[g-andresen]

Hi,

here´s a simple construction:

günther

[TheCADWhisperer]

My attempt....

[james_rg]

Sorry that's what I meant.

James

[g-andresen]

Hi,

here is No. 2

günther

[TheCADWhisperer]

Here is my stl file.

[james_rg · Accepted solution]

Perfect, I realise now that I had been using mostly the correct features but in the wrong order. a very informative video.

At ~49seconds I take if you are simply adding a fillet to round off the bottom of the scalloped hole and then same again on the top edge? I can't quite make out the commands you are using for that.

Can't wait to have another go when I'm back at my CAD computer and let you know how I get on.

Thank you so much for your help.

James

[james_rg · Accepted solution]

Even put the little white dot at the top.

Great work, thanks.

[james_rg]

My effort following all your advise.

I can fine tune if of course, but I'm really pleased. As with most Fusion queries it's knowing when to use what tool.

knob1

Thanks so much for all your help, what a fantastic community.

Best regards,

James