Generating a helix around a radius in SW

[McDesign25]

Does anyone know how to properly model a compression spring that is placed in a cavity that bends the spring to the cavity shape? I cannot get the sweep with twist to work properly or the flex or deform functions. Has anyone ran into this problem?

 

[Theophilus]

Check out Mike's curve-driven pattern file for reference:

http://www.mikejwilson.com/solidworks/solidworks_files-02.htm

Jeff Mowry

http://www.industrialdesignhaus.com

Reality is no respecter of good intentions.

 

[Theophilus]

Also check out the adjustable curved helix:

http://www.mikejwilson.com/solidworks/solidworks_files-05.htm

Jeff Mowry

http://www.industrialdesignhaus.com

Reality is no respecter of good intentions.

 

[rgrayclamps]

You can model a bent spring. It will take some extra steps to model it compared to straight springs.

If you really want to do it, you can create a straight spring with triangle or diamond shape wires. Then apply "FLEX" feature to bend the spring. Create a compound curve using one of edges. Create your new spring using this compound curve as path together with a sketch of a small circle (wire cross section).

Alex

 

[McDesign25]

I was hoping to get a x,y,z curve based off of some mathematical equation and do a sweep of those points.

Rgrayclamps,

Are you saying that if you start with triangle or diamond shapes when you hit the flex feature, the shapes will distort and become round? I am confused.

 

[rgrayclamps]

Hi, McDesign25:

No, "FLEX" feature will not distort a triangle or diamond shape into round.

If you create a spring with triangle or diamond wire (make sure one of corners coincides with your helix), it will create an edge equivalent to your helix. So, when you apply a "FLEX" feature, it will bent this edge (a helix)into a new edge that you can use as a sweep path to create your new bent spring. Of course, you need to create a new sketch with a small circle (your round wire) to do your sweep. The trick here is that "FLEX" can not bent a helix curve, but it can bent edges/bodies.

So, you will get two bent spring bodies. The first body is a bent spring with a triangle or diamond shape wire. The second is the bent spring you want. You just need to suppress the first one.

Good Luck!

Alex

 

[PlasticFantastic]

Another option is to deform the spring.