Evolution of Computer Skills of a Mechanical Engineer

Trust me, I'm an Engineer! This is sad but true. Excel is a great and powerful tool. I think you could group PowerPoint into that category too. I also enjoy the engineering flow chart!

Free 3D CAD Viewer downloadable software compariso

A useful tool in today's world of engineering is to have software which can view 3D CAD models but without having all of the tools of a CAD software system thus making the viewer extremely cheap (ideally it would be free). Here is a table comparing a few different CAD Viewer software programs and in the coming weeks I will be offering a more descriptive breakdown of each one including their strengths and weaknesses. 

Let's Go Design Episode #5: Chassis Design and Assemblies

In the last episode, we discussed weldment features and sketch techniques. This time, we move closer to the final overall CAD design of our Hot Rod Baby Buggy. We watch as Jeremy hot-wires the golf cart motors to show how the aluminum tracks perform flawlessly.

In this episode, Jeremy takes us through:

The Overall Design: Jeremy shares 80% of the CAD design, complete with a 3D model of a dad placed in the center. He shows us the fenders, talks about key components underneath the buggy, and creates a battery compartment using sheet metal.

Sustainability: We use SolidWorks® Sustainability to compare material selections for the fenders of our buggy - sheet metal vs. plastic.

The Assembly: Jeremy shows the basic build and sub-assemblies. He puts together the steel base weldment, aluminum floor, components from the golf cart’s electrical system and finally powers the tank treads.

Watch Episode #5 now at LetsGoDesign.tv

Quick Tips: How do you measure an angle in SolidWorks?

The measure tool will give you the angle - but there is a quicker way.  If you click on two planar surfaces, the status bar at the bottom of your screen should provide an angle.  This also works with two linear lines or edges.

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) Symbols

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is a language used on mechanical engineering drawings composed of symbols that are used to efficiently and accurately communicate geometry requirements for associated features on components and assemblies. Many industries use GD&T including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Listed below are some of the most common GD&T symbols used throughout the engineering world.

 Download CAD symbols, drawings, and details.

SolidWorks Tutorial: How to Draw a Bolt