How to model a Covered Can and Bolt, Washer, Nut Set

When working on assignments involving basic parts and assemblies in SolidWorks, such as creating a covered can and a bolt, washer, and nut set, it's essential to follow systematic procedures to ensure accuracy. By understanding and implementing these fundamental techniques, you can complete your modeling assignment with precision and confidence. This blog will guide you through the process of modeling, assembling, and creating detailed drawings for these components, even if step-by-step instructions aren't provided. Whether you’re designing a can with a lid or a set of fasteners, mastering these basics is crucial. If you find yourself struggling with specific aspects or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to seek additional resources or seek help with SolidWorks assignment. Utilizing available tools and guidance can significantly enhance your learning experience and help you overcome any challenges you might face during the design process.

Part 1: Designing the Covered Can

1. Creating the Can

Begin by setting up a new part file in SolidWorks. The covered can consists of two main components: the can itself and the lid. Let's start with the can.

• Start a New Part: Open SolidWorks and create a new part file. Select the Top Plane to start your sketch.
• Sketch the Base: Choose the Circle tool to draw a circle on the top plane. Define the diameter of the circle based on the specifications you have or the desired size of you can.
• Extrude the Cylinder: Exit the sketch mode and select the Extrude Boss/Base feature. Specify the height of the cylinder to match the can's dimensions. This operation will transform your 2D sketch into a 3D cylindrical shape.
• Apply Fillets: To achieve a smooth edge, select the Fillet tool. Set the fillet radius to 5 units (or the specified radius). Apply the fillet to the top and bottom edges of the cylinder. This step ensures the can's edges are rounded, giving it a more realistic appearance.

2. Creating the Lid

Now, let’s move on to the lid, which will fit on top of the can.

• Start a New Part for the Lid: Create a new part file and select the top plane for your sketch.
• Sketch the Lid: Draw a circle with a diameter slightly larger than the can's top diameter. This ensures the lid will fit over the can. If the lid has additional features such as tabs or grips, sketch those details as well.
• Extrude the Lid: Use the Extrude Boss/Base feature to give the lid its thickness. Ensure that the height of the lid is sufficient to cover the can completely.
• Apply Fillets: Similar to the can, apply fillets to the edges of the lid to smooth out any sharp corners. Use the same radius as you did for the can to maintain consistency.

3. Assembling the Can and Lid

With both parts created, the next step is to assemble them.

• Open a New Assembly: Create a new assembly file in SolidWorks. Insert the can part and the lid part into the assembly.
• Mate the Components: Use the Mate feature to position the lid correctly on the can. You will typically use the Concentric mate to align the lid with the can and the Coincident mate to ensure that the lid sits flush against the can’s top. Adjust the mates if necessary to ensure a proper fit.

4. Creating Drawings

Finally, you need to create detailed drawings to document your work.

• Create Drawing Views: Generate two model views of the lid. This allows you to show the lid from different perspectives, such as the top view and a side view.
• Include the Can Model View: Add one model view of the can to your drawing. This view should showcase the can’s dimensions and any notable features.
• Annotate and Dimension: Use the Annotation tool to add dimensions and notes to your drawings. This step is crucial for conveying the exact specifications of each component.

Part 2: Designing the Bolt, Washer, and Nut Set

1. Creating the Bolt

Next, let’s design the bolt, which consists of a cylindrical body with a head.

• Start a New Part: Open a new part file in SolidWorks and select the top plane for your sketch.
• Sketch the Bolt Head: Draw a circle for the head of the bolt. You can add additional details to the head, such as a hexagonal shape, depending on the bolt design.
• Extrude the Bolt Head: Use the Extrude Boss/Base feature to give the bolt head its thickness.
• Sketch the Bolt Shaft: Create a new sketch on the face of the bolt head. Draw a circle for the shaft and use the Extrude Boss/Base feature to extend the shaft to the required length.
• Apply Threading: If your design requires threading, use the Thread tool to add threads to the shaft. This can be done by selecting the Hole Wizard tool and applying external threads to the cylindrical surface.

2. Creating the Washer

• Start a New Part for the Washer: Create a new part file and select the top plane for your sketch.
• Sketch the Washer: Draw two concentric circles: one for the outer diameter and one for the inner diameter of the washer. The inner diameter should match the bolt shaft’s diameter.
• Extrude the Washer: Use the Extrude Boss/Base feature to give the washer its thickness.

3. Creating the Nut

• Start a New Part for the Nut: Create a new part file and select the top plane for your sketch.
• Sketch the Nut: Draw a hexagon or another shape that matches your nut design. Add a concentric circle for the inner diameter that matches the bolt’s threading.
• Extrude the Nut: Use the Extrude Boss/Base feature to give the nut its thickness. Apply internal threading if required.

4. Assembling the Bolt, Washer, and Nut

• Open a New Assembly: Create a new assembly file in SolidWorks. Insert the bolt, washer, and nut parts.
• Mate the Components: Use the Mate feature to position the components correctly. Align the bolt shaft through the washer’s hole and then mate the nut onto the end of the bolt. Ensure that everything is aligned and positioned correctly.

5. Creating Drawings

• Create Detailed Drawings: For each component (bolt, washer, and nut), generate detailed drawings showcasing multiple views. Include dimensions and notes that specify the component’s characteristics.
• Create an Assembly Drawing: Produce an assembly drawing that illustrates how the bolt, washer, and nut fit together. This drawing should include exploded views, if necessary, to show the assembly process clearly.

Conclusion

Mastering the creation of basic parts and assemblies in SolidWorks is crucial for developing more complex models. By working through exercises like the covered can and bolt, washer, and nut set, you build a solid foundation in using SolidWorks tools and concepts. Remember to focus on accuracy in both your models and drawings to ensure that your final products are functional and well-documented. These skills will serve you well as you progress to more advanced SolidWorks projects.