Maximizing Autodesk Mechanical Desktop

First Edition
Ron K.C. Cheng
Daniel T. Banach

Gain a first-hand understanding of computer modeling concepts as you discover the secrets of using Mechanical Desktop 6 to construct 3D parametric solid parts, generate assemblies, produce 3D NURBS-based surface models, and output 2D engineering drawings!

New from Autodesk Press, Maximizing Autodesk Mechanical Desktop is a "must" for mechanical engineers and engineering students alike. Unlike cookbook-style tutorials, this book propels readers to an understanding of computer-aided design theory while offering in-depth instruction in the whys and hows of using Mechanical Desktop to save time and enhance productivity.

The first chapter begins with an overview of computer modeling concepts, explains how 3D objects are represented on computer, and introduces readers to the Mechanical Desktop 6 user interface (including use of the desktop browser).

Using carefully engineered examples and exercises, subsequent chapters lead readers through the ins and outs of each of the four Mechanical Desktop modules: part modeling, assembly modeling, surface modeling, and engineering drafting. Instruction in converting AutoCAD solids to Mechanical Desktop solids, editing static base solid features by leveraging AutoCAD solid editing tools, and using the feature exchange add-on is also included to empower readers with the expertise needed to fully exploit the power of their software.

Benefits:

• Each chapter introduces a set of topics and leads readers through step-by-step examples, enabling them to quickly acquire new skills as they progress through the book.
• Step-by-step exercises engage readers in the use of mission-critical Mechanical Desktop 6 functions, guiding them to an understanding of how to maximize the power of one of today's most popular feature-based, parametric solid modeling tools.
• Discussion of basic modeling concepts is integrated directly into well-engineered, software-specific examples and tutorials, bridging the gap between mathematical and theory-driven mechanical design books and traditional computer tutorials.
• A summary, hands-on projects, plus thought-provoking review questions at the end of each chapter reinforce key points while offering additional opportunities to apply new skills.
• Comprehensive, yet fast-paced coverage of all four major Mechanical Desktop 6 modules and utilities makes this book an invaluable how-to manual and long-lasting desktop reference.
• Familiarity with basic AutoCAD commands (e.g., lines, arcs, circles and polylines) is assumed, although no prior experience with Mechanical Desktop is required, making this book ideal for users of all abilities.
• A handy CD, included in the back of the book, contains drawing files that will be useful in performing the exercises throughout the book.

Contents:

1 Computer Modeling
Overview
Computer Modeling Concepts
Using Mechanical Desktop
Options
Summary
Review Questions 1

2 Parametric Sketching
Overview
Parametric Sketching Concepts
Options
Constructing Parametric Sketch
Desktop Browser
Sketching Techniques
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 25

3 Part Modeling I
Overview
Visualization
Sketched Features: Extrude, Revolve, and Bend
Boolean Operations
Editing
Mass Properties
Attributes
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 57

4 Part Modeling II
Overview
Work Features
Sketched Features: Rib, Sweep, and Loft
Placed Features: Hole, Thread, Fillet, Chamfer, Shell, and Pattern
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 103

5 Assembly Modeling
Overview
Assembly Modeling Concepts
Design Approaches
Manipulating Assembly and Component Definitions
Analysis
Assembly Options
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 201

6 Assembly Scene
Overview
Assembly Scene Concepts
Scene
Exploded Views
Trail Lines
Scene Manipulation
Scene Options
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 253

7 Surface Modeling I
Overview
Surface Modeling Concepts
NURBS Surface Construction
NURBS Surface Editing
3D Wires Construction
3D Wires Editing
Utilities
Surface Modeling Options
Visibility
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 271

8 Surface Modeling II
Overview
Surface Modeling Tools
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 357

9 Part Modeling III
Overview
Surface Cut
Combination of Solid Parts
Part Splitting
Face Draft
Face Splitting
Design Variables
Scale
Mirror
Make Base Part
Convert AutoCAD Solid
Base Feature Editing
Solid Part Export
Feature Exchange
Collaboration
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 451

10 Engineering Drafting I
Overview
Engineering Drafting Concepts
Engineering Drawing Construction
Engineering Drawing Views
Annotations
Drawing Export
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 525

11 Engineering Drafting II
Overview
Assembly Drawing Construction
Annotations
Summary
Projects
Review Questions 603

688 pages - 7-3/8 x 9-1/4 in. - with CD-ROM