I trying to create a motion animation by using a "joint", specifically a slider joint. Pipe2 is to be inserted into pipe 1 ( which is "grounded") and slide along the pipe axis. As far as I understand, the sliding direction is then specified by selecting a plane (its normal) or an axis or edge, to specify the direction of sliding. Inventor doesn't allow me to select any datum features (planes or axes) to "connect", only geometry on the solid. So if I pick let's say the end face of the pipes to "connect", or the cylindrical surfaces, I then can't pick any reference to specify the direction in which it is meant to slide.
The next step is to prescribe a motion along the pipe, back and fort, in a smooth manner. It's all for visualization purposes, no actual "simulation" where forces are calculated.
I have used my fair share of motion simulation softwares (MSC Adams, Creo Mechanism Design, Creo Mechanism Dynamics, Solidworks Motion Simulation) and it is bewildering and mystifying how Autodesk have managed to turn even the most basic, simple thing into something difficult.
