The object of this project was to create 3D representations of isometric projections using the Inventor software. Inventor software allows the user to turn a 2D sketch into a 3D representation that can be exported for 3D printing. Inventor allows the user to sketch, dimension, and extrude portions of the object. Inventor doesn't have any one specific purpose, but rather allows the user to use a variety of tools to virtually create anything that can be exported, used as a template for printing, or used in a project. The steps for one particular projection are shown above and listed as follows:
1.) First, I clicked on start 2D sketch and created the base of my widget.
2.)Next, I dimensioned the sketch to an appropriate size.
3.)Then, I clicked finish sketch to finalize the 2D portion.
4.)After that, I pressed Extrude in order to elevate the 2D sketch into the 3rd dimension.
5.)I typed in the values and direction for the widget and finalized that step.
6.) I repeated this process on the front view and extruded one last time to finalize the widget.
The following widgets were produced the exact same way with the same dimensions.
1.) First, I clicked on start 2D sketch and created the base of my widget.
2.)Next, I dimensioned the sketch to an appropriate size.
3.)Then, I clicked finish sketch to finalize the 2D portion.
4.)After that, I pressed Extrude in order to elevate the 2D sketch into the 3rd dimension.
5.)I typed in the values and direction for the widget and finalized that step.
6.) I repeated this process on the front view and extruded one last time to finalize the widget.
The following widgets were produced the exact same way with the same dimensions.
Notebook Sketches
Makerbot
Printing Process
Final Product
This project had many moving pieces and new technology to learn. Starting with Inventor, I learned how to draw a 2D sketch and turn it into 3D object with several features. Additionally, I learned how to start with an isometric, sketch it in Inventor, and then dimension it correctly in Makerbot to 3D print it. I had never previously used any of these programs or machines, but I quickly picked up the necessary skills and I look forward to building upon these basic skills and create something really advanced.