To create or not to create threads

[Polanka]

We have a question for the engineering community...

We're an industrial supplier that wants to add a 2D/3D CAD library to it's existing fastener inventory on the web. Files would be available for download with each product.

Our question is: Is it worth it to create realistic threads or would engineers prefer a blank slate? We have three options:

1. Create images with a blank slate for the thread (i.e. Fastenal)
2. Create 'representative' threads for representation purposes only (i.e. McMaster-Carr)
3. Create accurate helix threads

In searching the forum, it seems as though the preference is for #1, so that threads can be created when needed for CNC or other purposes.

We would love to hear your opinion!

 

[ewh]

Accurately modeled threads are seldom worth the overhead (and bother) that they require. If they are needed, they can be added easier than they can be removed from "neutral" formats.

"Good to know you got shoes to wear when you find the floor." - [small]Robert Hunter[/small]

 

[TheTick]

Cosmetic threads should be fine.

 

[SBaugh]

I always send people this old example of a part I made on threads and fake threads.

ewh is right... don't make true threads, not worth the hassle.

TheTick is also correct Cosmetic threads will serve the purpose fine.

Regards,

Scott Baugh, CSWP

http://www.scottjbaugh.com

"If it's not broke, Don't fix it!"

faq731-376

 

[MadMango]

I've faked threads in the past by using a simple revolve to simulate the minor and major diameters, then pattern that the required length. This helps if assemblies are sectioned, as far as representation goes. Everyone has valid replies, helix-based threads are a system draw that don't give a good return.

"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."

Have you read faq731-376 to make the best use of these Forums?

 

[Polanka]

Thanks guys. We appreciate the advice.

Seems like there's some consensus for not having threads at all. Cosmetic or not, they require time to remove.

Having said that, would you be fine with inserting a blank slate drawings into your model? Or would you actually take the time to draw cosmetic threads?

 

[Eltron]

Check out this: faq559-1492. It should give you some pros and cons. I would agree with most everyone else that having the threads is seldom necessary and consumes resources for no reason. Take a look at your toolbox components. The fasteners are essentially just posts, but if you expand the Feature Manager and un-supress all of the features you'll see that there are some threads represented within those parts. They are not helical threads, rather they are a linear pattern of a simple revolve.

Not coincidentally, I will be giving a hands-on presentation at SWW2010 on this very topic.

Dan

http://www.eltronresearch.com

Dan's Blog

 

[MikeHalloran]

Please, no threads, or _very_ simplified ones.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[ctopher]

In the Toolbox screw parts you can pick how to display threads. This is as far as I would go to show threads.

Chris
SolidWorks 09 SP4.1
ctopher's home
SolidWorks Legion

 

[kris44]

For bolts best to have one only Cut-Revolve which indicates the length of thread.