How do I create a shape
Sorry - New to the 3D Printing game and still getting up and running with my Prusa i3 MK3+ (Factory Build) whilst I've gotten over the first layer education etc. I am printing various models without issues and designing the odd thing in TinkerCAD and Fusion 360 (following guides).
I want to create a bracket to mount onto a table leg but not sure how to create the profile of the shape - It's like a pear drop in shape running down the leg - How would I create a profile of this that I could then trace around in Fusion 360 (I've established loading a canvas to recreate shapes)...But need to create the shape, I've tried to google etc. to no avail or I am searching for completely the wrong thing!
Hopefully someone can point me at a guide I can follow?
Best Answer by Robin:
One of those might come in handy: https://kol.deals/en-de/products/beewarm-contour-gauge-with-lock-10-inch-and-5-inch-contour-duplications-create-perfect-instant-template-for-curved-and-odd-shapes-gauge-master-bonus-angle-ruler-measuring-tool-and-carpenter-pen?variant=40861756293274
or start with something like this:
https://www.printables.com/model/198630-imperial-radius-gauge
RE: How do I create a shape
Mh. You might find what you are looking for by just watching some beginner's tutorial for Fusion360 - there are many. It does not take long to get an overview of the basic object generation techniques in Fusion360.
I don't really get what your problem is, if you could add a drawing I may be able to point you in the right direction.
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
Find out why this is pinned in the general section!
RE: How do I create a shape
I've been doing some Fusion 360 learning and coming along nicely - I know I can add a Canvas to trace or convert an image to SVG and Extrude from that but my challenge (badly worded above) is trying to get the template in the first place. The leg I want to do isn't handy but I've used my workshop stool as an idea of what I want to capture.
I want to make a clamp to go around the leg (where the yellow ring goes) but the leg isn't round/square so cannot easily tool it in Fusion without a profile.
RE: How do I create a shape
Measurements, lots and lots of measurements.
You can try and take plan view pictures and trace off those but there's usually some parallax error in those to throw everything off. Then its adjust, adjust adjust, test print, adjust again etc until you get it right.
You can easily print off thin1mm thick cross sections to go over the part to check real world fit. You also design with tolerances in mind and design the clamp to accommodate them.
You could buy a 3d scanner I suppose but that seems like overkill. Although the 3d scanning abilities of some of the newer smartphones are a possibility. The quality though with all 3d scanning stuff is very hit and miss until you get to the expensive kit. Ok for scanning a sculpture but not really for engineering parts.
RE:
One of those might come in handy: https://kol.deals/en-de/products/beewarm-contour-gauge-with-lock-10-inch-and-5-inch-contour-duplications-create-perfect-instant-template-for-curved-and-odd-shapes-gauge-master-bonus-angle-ruler-measuring-tool-and-carpenter-pen?variant=40861756293274
or start with something like this:
https://www.printables.com/model/198630-imperial-radius-gauge
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
Find out why this is pinned in the general section!
RE:
Obtained a 'Contour Gauge' used that to take a profile on each side of the leg
Copied profile to piece of paper, scanned this and imported into Fusion 360 as a Canvas, calibrated and traced the shape
I now have my left and right profile fitting perfectly - Thanks for suggestions/ideas
