CAD Designing

What is CAD?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is a technology that allows users to digitally create 2D drawings and 3D models of real-world products. This powerful tool facilitates the design, simulation, and modification of prototypes before they are manufactured. CAD enables seamless collaboration among teams, leading to the development of innovative, high-quality products that can reach the market faster.

CAD Software/Tools

CAD software provides specialized tools tailored to different industries, such as architecture, industrial design, and electronics. Some CAD tools are versatile and can be used across a variety of fields, while others are industry-specific. Below is a list of widely used CAD tools:

• SolidWorks
• AutoCAD
• Fusion 360
• CATIA
• TinkerCad
• CREO
• Onshape
• SIEMENS NX
• LibreCAD
• DraftSight
• Solid Edge
• Altium Designer

Onshape: Cloud-Based CAD Software

Onshape is a cutting-edge, cloud-based CAD platform. It allows users to collaborate in real time on a single model through web-based servers, making it an ideal choice for industries involved in product design, machine parts, and industrial equipment.

Key Features of Onshape:

• Collaboration: Teams can work on the same design simultaneously, streamlining the design process.
• Document Organization: Instead of native file formats, Onshape stores design data within “Documents,” which act as project-level containers. These containers hold assemblies, parts, drawings, imported components, and other project-related data.
• Cross-Compatibility: Supports importing and exporting files in multiple industry-standard formats.
• Cloud-Based Access: Accessible through compatible web browsers after signing in.

Assembly Guide

Chassis Drawing (CAD Sketch)

Step 1: Accessing the Assembly Tab

1. After partially creating the chassis, navigate to the Assembly tab located at the bottom of the screen by left-clicking on it.

   • Note: The Assembly tab is automatically created when you start a new document.

   

Step 2: Inserting an External Assembly

1. Left-click on Insert in the top panel.
   

2. A drop-down menu will appear with the following options: Current Document, Other Documents, and Standard Document.

3. Navigate to Other Documents.
   

4. Paste the following URL into the provided box:
   https://cad.onshape.com/documents/692cce191c77a3a06298e5dc/w/aafea05b38b3a608edf34070/e/839bcfdc334e62e3cf4d626e

   OR

   • Go to Public and search for “Robot_assembly_origo24.”
   • Select the appropriate item from the results.
     

Step 3: Adding the Assembly

1. In the selected file, locate Part Studios and Assemblies.

   • Note: Part Studios will be empty since the file is an assembly. Click on Assemblies.
     

2. Select Assembly 1. Move your cursor to the workspace and left-click to place the assembly where desired.
   

3. Click the green tick at the top to confirm placement.

Assembly Instructions

Motor Joints

1. Hover the cursor over the chassis without left-clicking. The chassis will display yellow borders.

   • Right-click and select Fix from the menu.
     

     Note: If you accidentally left-clicked, press Esc to deselect. Fixing the chassis is crucial to visualize joints properly.

   

2. Select Fastened Mate from the toolbar.
   

3. Click on the top hole of the motor’s surface. A Mate Connector will appear.

4. Rotate the view to locate the top hole on the T-shaped fastener. Click on it. The motor will align with the location.

5. Confirm by clicking the green tick.
   

   Reference Video: Motor Joint Tutorial

6. Repeat the same process for the second motor joint.

   Reference Video: Second Motor Joint

7. To exit the Fastened Mate tool, click the X or press Esc.

Castor Wheel Joint

1. Reorient the castor wheel:

   • Left-click the wheel to activate a triad.
     
   • Rotate the wheel along two axes to align its holes with the chassis.

   Reference Video: Castor Wheel Alignment

2. Create a joint between one hole on the castor wheel and one on the chassis using Fastened Mate (same technique as the motor joint).

   Reference Video: Castor Wheel Joint

Revolute Joint

1. Select Revolute Mate from the toolbar. This mate requires two points of selection.
   

2. First, click the center of the tire. Ensure accuracy in selection to avoid misaligned orientations.

3. Next, select the center point from the three points available on the motor shaft’s inner surface.
   

4. Click the green tick to confirm the joint.

   Reference Video: Revolute Joint

5. Repeat this process for the second wheel.

Final Check

Verify that your project functions as intended by testing the joints:
Project Test

Completed Chassis (3D Model)