MODEL TRAIN
Project Description
The goal of this project was to create a functioning model train with correctly dimensioned parts based on given directions. Without correctly dimensioned parts the train would not fit together to create the perfect train.
Drawings
Assembly
There are four interferences that mean the wheels will not fall out easily and the train will be functional. Constraints were also placed on each part to eliminate five of the six degrees of freedom. The only degree of freedom left was a rotation around the part's axis.
Presentation Drawing
Conclusion
Designing my model train was not as complicated as I originally thought, but I encountered many problems a lot the way. Forgetting a dimension in my sketch was one of my reoccurring issues. Later in the project, especially during dimensioning, I would realize there was an incorrect or missing dimension that I would have to go back to fix. I also learned skills like how to create sectional views, auxiliary views, broken views, and tolerances. Section views are used to view the interior of a part and fully dimension it. Auxiliary views are used to view an angled plane from straight on and dimension it completely. Broken views are used when an object is very long and would be dimensioned easier if it was shorter. Broken views cut away a section to allow for this to happen. Tolerances are used to provide the minimum and maximum dimension possible for the components to still be functional. We need tolerances because no two parts are the same and tolerances prevent big mistakes in the dimensions. Symbols are used in hole dimensions to ensure that anyone can read it, no matter what language they speak. Numbers and symbols are universal and that is why they are used for engineering and hole dimensions. The purpose of dimensioning is to provide a system that anyone would understand to recreate the part perfectly. Without words from only one language this can be accomplished. The model train project was very fun and educational and allowed me to feel accomplished when I was finished. I learned a lot of new skills to help me build the train and further my knowledge of the Inventor program and engineering.