Timing Belts
Timing Belts
(OP)
We use timing belts extensively in our designs. Same part number but infinite iterations. I've got a few solutions but none perfect. Is anyone else doing this? How?
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RE: Timing Belts
Name the file as follows:
belt_pn-assy_pn-#
belt_pn = part number of your belt
assy_pn = assembly part number that this particualar belt file is in
# - sequential number (so that you can have more than one of the same belt in your assembly)
Then change the configuration properties of your belt so that the part number is custom. This way, your belt will show up properly in your BOM.
Thus, if you have 2 4193 belts in assembly 9999, the file names would be:
4193-9999-1
&
4193-9999-2
RE: Timing Belts
The timing belt model consists only of a single block of dimensions sufficient to encompass the extremes of the belt application. This "block" is inserted into an assembly, and then cut to shape using assembly-level cuts.
RE: Timing Belts
Just curious.
MadMango
"Probable impossibilities are to be preferred to improbable possibilities."
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RE: Timing Belts
Regg
RE: Timing Belts
The reason I suggested this method was due to sdb999's statement 'Same part number but infinite iterations.'
This implies LOTS of variations on a single belt. Plus, belt variations are usually not just a change in dimensions. Instead, belt configurations consist of different paths with varying numbers of pulleys, pulley sizes, and pulley locations. Some belts are even twisted along their route (although rare with timing belts).
Thus, each different configuration would probably need a different sweep path, something that is not easy (if even possible?) in SWX. Even if a different path could be accomplished, the number of paths and features and configurations possible just seems like too much for configurations to me.
In short, I just believe the configuration route for flexible components like belts is just too much work to be worth it.
Tick's idea of a solid block that is cut away at the assembly level does not sound like a bad idea to me. But, I still think I prefer my first suggestion.
RE: Timing Belts
SW does not allow more than one external reference per part file, so in-context is out. Which really hurts because this is one of the few instances when it would be worth the trouble.
Yes the number of configurations in theory would be infinite, but in reality our designs would probably not generate more than could be managed.
I've settled on a Thin Feature extrude, Mid-Plane, Two Direction. This produces a "clearance envelope" based on the pitch line. One sketch, one feature per config, and it's a good bit lighter than a sweep. It only lacks teeth which is not important to me. I'm trying now to create feature palettes for the various styles and pitches but it's slow going.
Thanks All.
RE: Timing Belts
BTW: SmarTeam (a PDM system) does allow different partnumbers for different configurations. (Also multiple configurations for each part number).
We do it all the time and it works fine. Looks something like this (in our case):
partname -001
partname -002(fixd)
partname -002(free)
partname -002(expl)
partname -003
partname -003(fixd)
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RE: Timing Belts
RE: Timing Belts
3/4 of all the Spam produced goes to Hawaii - shame that's not true of SPAM also.......
RE: Timing Belts