Chain

[JD Mather]

In an ipt file create a sketch for the path of the chain (actually I think the DAcc already does this for you).

In the ipt with the path create a workpoint on the path.

Use the Rectangular Pattern command (should be called Curve Driven

Pattern - where often the "curve" is a straight line) to pattern the workpoint but the center-to-center distance of the chain link (pitch).

In the assembly constrain one link to the first two workpoints on the path.

In the assembly use Pattern Component and use the "Rectangular Pattern" feature of the Workpoints to pattern the rest of the chain links.

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/at...9&d=1200330921

[pearldrumzach]

I used the chain .ipt files in the Kit of Parts files downloaded from FIRSTbase.

JD - I created a chain, with the correct number of links. I am just unsure how to go about constraining it within the whole assembly of the robot. Is there any way I can make the chain "work" (I don't know the real word for it, but by "work" I mean can I constrain it in any way to where the chain will turn when the sprocket turns in the assembly)?

Thanks for the help, guys.

[Team1710]

Just wondering if there is a way to replace the beltish look of the chain generator. Honestly it doesn't look like chain at all. Plus our team uses ANSI 35 chain and the generator only has ANSI 40 for the smallest chain. Does anyone know how we could use ANSI 35 in the generator?

[JD Mather]

Originally Posted by pearldrumzach

JD - I created a chain, with the correct number of links. ...Is there any way I can make the chain "work"

Do not create all of the links.
You need only one roller link and one pin link (depending on the type of chain used - I haven't looked at the supplied).

Create an ipt with the path (actually I think the DAcc does this for you).
Create one workpoint on the path.
Use the Curve Driven Pattern tool (missed named - Rectangular Pattern) to pattern the workpoint at the correct pitch around the path.
(see http://home.pct.edu/~jmather/AU2006/MA13-3%20Mather.pdf - not exactly the same thing so don't get confused, but it should get you going)

Then in the assembly place the one (or two) links as needed and constrain to the points. Then use Pattern Component using the point pattern to drive the palcement of the rest of the links around the path.

To actually animate the movement of a chain is more difficult than I can explain here.

[Team1710]

Originally Posted by JD Mather

Do not create all of the links.
You need only one roller link and one pin link (depending on the type of chain used - I haven't looked at the supplied).

Create an ipt with the path (actually I think the DAcc does this for you).
Create one workpoint on the path.
Use the Curve Driven Pattern tool (missed named - Rectangular Pattern) to pattern the workpoint at the correct pitch around the path.
(see http://home.pct.edu/~jmather/AU2006/MA13-3%20Mather.pdf - not exactly the same thing so don't get confused, but it should get you going)

Then in the assembly place the one (or two) links as needed and constrain to the points. Then use Pattern Component using the point pattern to drive the palcement of the rest of the links around the path.

To actually animate the movement of a chain is more difficult than I can explain here.

This method is amazing! We're definately going to use this. Thanks a bunch!