OnShape 3D Modeling Hinge Tutorial Exercise

In the “OnShape 3D Modeling Hinge Tutorial Exercise,” you will be guided through a comprehensive process of creating a hinge using OnShape by John from OnShape Pro. The tutorial meticulously outlines a step-by-step approach, starting with sketch creation on the front plane, followed by extrusion, additional sketches and lofting, mirroring parts, and finally, combining parts to form a complete hinge.

Each section of the tutorial is designed to facilitate your understanding of the essential features and tools in OnShape. For instance, you’ll learn how to apply specific dimensions, create tangents, trim lines, and ensure full constraint of your sketch. By the end of the exercise, you will have not only constructed a functional hinge but also gained valuable insights into the efficient use of OnShape for 3D modeling projects.

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Host Introduction and Tutorial Overview

Introduction to John from OnShape Pro

Welcome to this comprehensive tutorial on creating a hinge using OnShape, hosted by John from OnShape Pro. This tutorial is intended to guide you through each step of the process, from initial sketch creation to the final assembly of the hinge. The aim is to provide a clear and detailed walkthrough, enabling you to develop proficiency in using OnShape for 3D modeling of mechanical parts.

Brief Description of the Tutorial Objective: Creating a Hinge Using OnShape

In this tutorial, you will learn to create a hinge component to a detailed specification. This tutorial focuses on the essential features of OnShape, including sketching, extrusion, lofting, mirroring, filleting, and assembly. By the end, you will have a well-defined hinge model along with a pin, ensuring it functions correctly.

Step 1: Sketch Creation

Initiate a New Sketch on the Front Plane

Begin by opening OnShape and starting a new document. Initiate a new sketch on the front plane by right-clicking and selecting “View Normal to Sketch Plane.” This view provides a perpendicular perspective crucial for accurate sketching.

Draw Lines and Circles and Assign Dimensions

Select the line tool and draw the required lines. Assign the specific dimensions to these lines to conform to the hinge design specifications:

• The top line should be 125 mm.
• The side line should measure 8 mm.

Next, select the circle tool and draw two circles. Assign dimensions to these circles as well:

• The first circle should have a diameter of 25 mm.
• The second circle should have a diameter of 41 mm.

Additionally, draw and dimension other necessary elements:

• A segment of 24.5 mm.
• Another segment of 5 mm.

Application of Tangents and Trimming of Lines to Clean Up the Sketch

To ensure proper alignment and curvature, apply tangents between lines and circles where required. Use the trim tool to remove unnecessary segments, cleaning up the sketch and preparing it for extrusion. This practice enhances the clarity and accuracy of the sketch.

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Step 2: Extrusion

Extrude the Completed Sketch to 292 mm

With the sketch finalized, proceed to extrude the shape. Set the extrusion distance to 292 mm, which defines one side of the hinge. This extrusion forms the basic 3D shape of the hinge’s body.

Start a New Sketch for the Necessary Holes

Initiate a new sketch on the extruded surface to include necessary holes. These holes are integral to the hinge’s functionality.

Determine and Apply Dimensions for Holes: Larger Hole (32 mm)

Draw circles on the new sketch and set their diameters to 32 mm for the larger hole. To ensure accurate positioning, use a construction line as a reference.

Use a Construction Line to Position the Holes Accurately

Draw a horizontal construction line to find the center point for the holes. Precisely position these holes by setting their positions:

• 58 mm from the side edge.
• 30 mm vertically from the reference line.

Step 3: Additional Sketches and Lofting

Create Sketches on the Opposite Side for Smaller Holes (24 mm)

Turn the part to access the opposite face and start a new sketch. Use this sketch to draw smaller holes, each with a diameter of 24 mm. Ensure the correct positioning by referencing previously drawn center points.

Utilize the Loft Tool to Cut Out the Necessary Holes

After drawing the sketches, apply the loft tool to cut through these holes. Select the appropriate profiles to ensure clean cuts. When the circles turn black, it indicates they are fully constrained and dimensionally accurate.

Step 4: Mirroring the Part

Establish a Mirror of the Part Using an Offset Plane (150 mm Offset)

Create an offset plane 150 mm from the original plane to mirror the hinge part. This step effectively creates the other half of the hinge, ensuring symmetry.

Modify and Dimension Rectangular Cutouts as Required for Hinge Parts

On the mirrored part, draw rectangular cutouts essential for hinge operation. Set the necessary dimensions to fully define these features. Ensure these cutouts align with the hinge’s mechanical requirements.

Step 5: Fully Constraining Everything

Apply Dimensions to All Components to Ensure They Are Fully Constrained

Review all parts of the hinge to ensure each component is fully constrained. Apply any necessary dimensions to elements not initially included, ensuring all sketch lines are black, indicating they are fully defined. Proper constraint ensures the hinge’s mechanical reliability and assembly accuracy.

Step 6: Filleting Edges

Add Fillets of 2 mm to Various Parts and Edges of the Hinge for Smoothness

To enhance the hinge’s aesthetics and functionality, add a 2-mm fillet to various edges. This fillet softens sharp corners, reducing stress concentrations and improving the hinge’s durability and smooth operation.

Step 7: Combining Parts and Creating the Pin

Use the Transform Tool to Align Hinge Parts

Utilize the transform tool to accurately align the two mirrored hinge parts. Proper alignment is crucial for the hinge’s functionality and ensures both halves operate synchronously.

Sketch the Pin Separately: Pin Diameter (24.5 mm), Pin Length (292 mm)

Create a new sketch for the pin, central to the hinge’s function. Draw a circle with a diameter of 24.5 mm and extrude it to match the hinge’s length of 292 mm.

Add and Extrude a Head to the Pin: Head Diameter (41 mm), Head Height (8 mm)

To complete the pin, draw an additional circle for the head diameter, setting it at 41 mm. Extrude this circle to a height of 8 mm. Apply fillets to the pin for a smooth finish, ensuring it fits and rotates correctly within the hinge.

Review and Final Adjustments

Review the Entire Hinge Model for Any Errors or Adjustments

Conduct a thorough review of the entire hinge model. Check for any geometric or dimensional errors and make necessary adjustments to ensure every feature meets the design specifications.

Ensure All Parts Are Correctly Aligned and Constrained

Reevaluate all parts to confirm they are correctly aligned and fully constrained. Pay particular attention to critical alignment and constraint details, guaranteeing the hinge’s final assembly will operate smoothly.

Perform a Final Check for Smooth Operation of the Hinge

In the final step, simulate the hinge’s movement to verify smooth operation. Ensure there are no interferences or excessive gaps, concluding the tutorial with a functional hinge model.

Conclusion

Summarize the Hinge Creation Process and Key Takeaways

In summary, this tutorial has taken you through creating a hinge using OnShape, from initial sketching through extrusion, lofting, mirroring, and final assembly. You have learned how to accurately define and constrain sketches, apply fillets for smoothness, and combine parts to form a functional mechanical hinge.

Express Gratitude to the Viewers for Following Along

Thank you for following along with this detailed guide on hinge creation. Your dedication to learning and improving your 3D modeling skills using OnShape is commendable.

Provide Final Remarks and Close the Tutorial Session

We hope this tutorial has provided you with valuable insights and practical skills in 3D modeling. Stay tuned for more tutorials from OnShape Pro as we continue to explore the vast capabilities of OnShape. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to seeing your innovative designs.

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