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Iris Mechanism Generator (Variant 6)

Carlos Bravo
in Modeling
8 1 Intermediate
This model is part of a series of Iris Mechanisms I began designing during the pandemic, and it now receives an update after several years. The original model uploaded a few years ago is available here: 🔗 https://grabcad.com/library/iris-generator-model-5-1 Unfortunately, due to GrabCAD’s community policies, it has been flagged as “tainted due to a violation of community guidelines” and is no longer publicly visible unless accessed directly. 🛠️ About this Variant This version features somewhat triangular leaves that slide against each other. The mechanism operates through two plates: A base plate with straight linear guides, which define the opening/closing position of each leaf A driving plate with curved slots, which actuate the iris motion through controlled displacement This model is a schematic representation, so any manufacturing considerations—such as tolerances between pins and slots—are left to the discretion of the designer using this as a starting point. ⚙️ Notes Be sure to open the assembly file, as the parts are dimensionally linked to the assembly (parametric relationships are defined there). Feel free to use or modify this model however you'd like. (Let’s hope GrabCAD doesn’t flag this one again 😅)
SOLIDWORKS parametric mechanism equations

Iris Mechanism Generator (Variant 5)

Carlos Bravo
in Modeling
7 0 Intermediate
This model is part of a series of Iris Mechanisms I began designing during the pandemic, and it now receives an update after several years. The original model uploaded a few years ago is available here: 🔗 https://grabcad.com/library/iris-generator-model-3-1 Unfortunately, due to GrabCAD’s community guidelines, it has been flagged as “tainted due to a violation of community guidelines” and is no longer publicly visible unless accessed via direct link. 🛠️ About this Variant In this version, the actuation is achieved by rotating the driving plate. This plate interacts with slots (guides) on each leaf, which in turn execute the opening or closing of the iris. The mechanism has been successfully tested with 4 to 7 leaves, though I do not recommend using only 4, as the slot approaches too close to the edge of the plate. Suggested maximum opening angles (r_max) are: 4 leaves → up to 45° 5–6 leaves → around 40° to 35° 7 leaves → up to 30° Please review the model carefully and test parameters cautiously before applying them in a final design. ⚙️ Notes Open the full assembly file, as part dimensions and parameters are linked directly to it via parametric references. Feel free to use or modify this model as you see fit. (And fingers crossed GrabCAD doesn’t report it again 😅)
SOLIDWORKS mechanism parametric equations

Iris Mechanism Generator (Variant 1)

Carlos Bravo
in Modeling
5 1 Intermediate
This is another variant from my Iris Mechanism Series, which I originally started designing back during the pandemic—and now, after several years, it receives a much-needed update. The original model I uploaded a few years ago was: 👉 https://grabcad.com/library/iris-generator-model-1-1 However, it was unfortunately marked as "tainted due to a violation of community guidelines" by GrabCAD. This variant uses flexible overlapping blades, inspired in part by this post: 🔗 https://www.instructables.com/Mechanical-Iris-Card-Improved/ In this design: - The number of blades is calculated automatically based on the thickness of the base plate. - There are a few geometric constraints: the inner radius must be smaller than the outer radius, and the maximum supported configuration is when the outer radius is exactly twice the inner radius. The blade shape provided is just a draft, so feel free to customize it to your needs. Use the sketch as a starting point, and modify it to suit your aesthetic or functional goals. ⚠ Note: Be sure to open the full assembly, as all blade dimensions and positions are driven by equations and references from the assembly itself. Feel free to use or adapt this model however you like! (And hopefully, GrabCAD won’t flag this one again 😅)
SOLIDWORKS mechanism equation parametric

Iris Mechanism Generator (Variant 2)

Carlos Bravo
in Modeling
5 0 Intermediate
This model is part of a series of Iris Mechanisms I began designing during the pandemic, and it now receives an update after several years. The original model uploaded a few years ago is available here: 🔗 https://grabcad.com/library/iris-generator-model-2-1 Unfortunately, due to GrabCAD’s community policies, it has been flagged as “tainted due to a violation of community guidelines” and is no longer publicly visible unless accessed directly. 🛠️ About this Variant This version features flexible leaves that overlap each other and are inspired by this YouTube post: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkaN07fCG3w Unlike other iris designs with rigid pivots or sliding slots, this variant proposes a softer, layered motion between blades. The number of leaves is calculated automatically depending on the dimensions of the mechanism, particularly the inner and outer radius. This model includes three different configurations, each with a distinct leaf width (r_ext_blade). The shape of each leaf is defined by a sketch that can be easily modified to suit your application. Each leaf requires two pivot points: - One at the base, to enable revolute rotation - Another at the tip, to connect with a sliding mechanism (a slotted guide or equivalent linkage) 🔁 Important: Due to how SolidWorks handles the blade instances in the assembly, they don’t appear in their final stacked order. Make sure to assemble them physically following the correct sequence for proper motion. ⚙️ Notes Be sure to open the assembly file, as the parts are dimensionally linked to the assembly (parametric relationships are defined there). Feel free to use or modify this model however you'd like. (Let’s hope GrabCAD doesn’t flag this one again 😅)
SOLIDWORKS equiation parametric mechanism

SPOILER || ASTHETIC || 3D & SURFACE PART MODELING || NX SIEMENS

VR DESIGNER
in Modeling
3 0 Intermediate
Welcome to our latest CAD tutorial! In this video, we'll walk you through the complete process of modeling a car spoiler using Siemens NX — one of the industry-leading CAD/CAM/CAE tools. From creating the initial sketches to finalizing the aerodynamic surfaces, you'll learn the professional techniques used in automotive design. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this tutorial will give you clear insights into using NX Surface Modeling, Extrude, Sweep, Loft, and Edge Blend features to create a realistic and functional spoiler. 🎯 What You'll Learn: - Setting up reference planes and curves - Sketching aerodynamic profiles -- Creating solid bodies using sweeps and lofts - Surface modeling techniques for smooth flow - Finishing touches: blends, fillets, and aesthetics - Best practices for automotive part design ⚙️ Software Used: Siemens NX - A powerful and versatile CAD/CAM/CAE software for 3D modeling and engineering design.
NX Unigraphics automobile engineering mechanical engineering automotive part spoiler tutorial surfacing tutorial nx tutorial nx siemens cad tutorial

BIKE EXHAUST || EXHAUST || PART MODELING || NX SIEMENS

VR DESIGNER
in Modeling
3 0 Intermediate
In this video, we demonstrate the complete modeling of a bike exhaust using Siemens NX software, covering every step from concept to the final 3D design. Whether you are a mechanical engineer, automotive designer, or CAD enthusiast, this tutorial will help you enhance your CAD modeling skills and understand complex surface modeling techniques. What You’ll Learn in This Video: ✅ How to start a new project in NX Siemens ✅ Step-by-step 3D modeling of a bike exhaust ✅ Surface and solid modeling techniques for complex parts This tutorial is ideal for mechanical engineering students, CAD professionals, and automotive designers who want to master Siemens NX for real-world applications. If you find this video helpful, like, share, and subscribe to VR DESIGNER for more CAD modeling tutorials, product design projects, and engineering tips! ⚙️ Software Used: Siemens NX - A powerful and versatile CAD/CAM/CAE software for 3D modeling and engineering design.
NX Unigraphics mechanical engineering automobile engineering bike exhaust exhaust tutorial nx siemens nx tutorial cad model tutorial

Part Modelling | Spray Nozzle

SG-XXIV
in Modeling
2 3 Intermediate
Learn how to model a spray nozzle in SolidWorks using key features like Revolve Boss/Base, Extrude Boss/Base, Chamfer, Hole Wizard, Chamfer. This beginner-friendly tutorial is perfect for students and new CAD users looking to develop their part modeling skills with clean and practical design steps.
SOLIDWORKS

Part Modelling and Drafting | Pump House

SG-XXIV
in Modeling
1 0 Intermediate
Welcome to this comprehensive SolidWorks tutorial, where we guide you through the entire process of designing and drafting a Pump House. What You'll Learn: 🔧 Part 1: 3D Modeling Sketching and feature creation. Building the complete 3D geometry of a Pump House. Applying design best practices for mechanical components. 📝 Part 2: 2D Drafting Converting the 3D model into fully detailed 2D technical drawings Creating standard views, section views, and auxiliary views Adding dimensions, annotations, and title blocks for manufacturing.
SOLIDWORKS part modelling drafting solidworkstutorial solidworks pump house

COILOVER SUSPENSION || STRUD || SUSPENSION || PART MODELING & ASSEMBLY || NX SIEMENS

VR DESIGNER
in Modeling
1 0 Intermediate
Explore this detailed 3D model of a Suspension System created using Siemens NX, a powerful CAD design tool. This video showcases the design, assembly, and animation of the suspension components, including springs, dampers, wishbones, and joints. 🔧 Highlights of the video: 3D modeling and assembly of the suspension system in NX Step-by-step view of the suspension design Visualized motion simulation for real-world functionality Application of realistic materials and animations This model demonstrates the mechanical design precision possible with Siemens NX for automotive and mechanical engineering projects. Perfect for design engineers, CAD enthusiasts, and students exploring suspension system mechanics! 🔔 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more CAD design videos!
NX Unigraphics automotive part tutorial mechanical engineering tutorial mechperson strud tutorial cad model nx siemens tutorial nx tutorial cad tutorial suspension tutorial

Part Modelling & Drafting | Control Arm

SG-XXIV
in Modeling
1 0 Intermediate
🛠️ SolidWorks Features Used for Modeling: Extrude Boss/Base – Create the primary geometry of the control arm. Extrude Cut – Remove material and define cavities or slots. Hole Wizard – Add standard holes for bolts or fittings with precision. Circular Pattern – Duplicate features symmetrically around an axis. 📏 Drafting Techniques Demonstrated: View Creation – Front, Top, Side, and Isometric views. Aligned Section View – Reveal internal geometry for technical clarity. Annotations – Add dimensions, callouts, and other manufacturing details.
SOLIDWORKS

⬜ FreeCAD Tapered Pad - Tapered Extrusion - FreeCAD Part Design Workbench

🤜 AllVisuals4U & 3DParts4U 🤛
in Modeling
0 0 Intermediate
⬜ FreeCAD Tapered Pad - Tapered Extrusion - FreeCAD Part Design Workbench
FreeCAD

Spur Gear Tutorial | Equation Driven Design

SG-XXIV
in Modeling
0 0 Intermediate
In this Creo Parametric Spur Gear Tutorial, you'll learn how to design accurate spur gears using an equation-driven approach. We’ll guide you through defining key parameters, creating the involute tooth profile, and generating essential gear geometry like the pitch and base circles.
PTC Creo Parametric

What's New in SolidWorks 2026

Ali Nasser
in Modeling
0 0 Intermediate
SolidWorks 2026, SolidWorks new features, what's new in SolidWorks, SolidWorks update, SolidWorks 2026 review, SolidWorks tips, CAD software, 3D design software, SolidWorks tutorial, mechanical design, SolidWorks improvements, SolidWorks UI 2026, SolidWorks multi monitor, CAD 2026, SolidWorks drawing tabs, SolidWorks FeatureManager, SolidWorks interface 2026, new in SolidWorks, SolidWorks enhancements, SolidWorks 2026 overview
SOLIDWORKS whats new in soli solidworks new features solidworks 2026

🔩 Real THREADS For 3D Printing - FreeCAD Hole Tutorial - FreeCAD Thread Tutorial - FreeCAD Projects

🤜 AllVisuals4U & 3DParts4U 🤛
in Modeling
0 0 Intermediate
🔩 Real THREADS For 3D Printing - FreeCAD Hole Tutorial - FreeCAD Thread Tutorial - FreeCAD Projects
FreeCAD freecad threaded hole freecad thread freecad projects freecad thread tutorial freecad hole tutorial real threads for 3d printing allvisuals4u

Mold Tool | Core Cavity Extraction

SG-XXIV
in Modeling
0 0 Intermediate
In this SolidWorks tutorial, you'll learn how to use the Mold Tool features to extract the core and cavity from a part, an essential process in mold design for manufacturing. We'll guide you through the steps including parting line creation, shut-off surfaces, and tooling split, giving you a clear understanding of how to prepare and separate a model for mold making. Ideal for intermediate users, this tutorial helps you master one of the most powerful tools in SolidWorks for plastic part design
SOLIDWORKS
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The Computer-Aided Design ("CAD") files and all associated content posted to this website are created, uploaded, managed and owned by third-party users. Each CAD and any associated text, image or data is in no way sponsored by or affiliated with any company, organization or real-world item, product, or good it may purport to portray.