Discover the Magic of Frame Generator Table

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Creating a Skeletal File
3. Adding Support Braces
4. Extruding the Surfaces
5. Adding a Top Sketch
6. Saving the Part
7. Creating an Assembly
8. Inserting the Frame Generator
9. Applying Frame Components
10. Managing File Names and Data
11. Modifying the Bill of Material
12. Cleaning Up the Model

Creating a Table with Frame Generator in Inventor 2011

In this article, we will guide you through the process of using Frame Generator in Inventor 2011 to create a table with frame components. We will cover topics like creating a skeletal file, adding support braces, extruding the surfaces, adding a top sketch, saving the part, creating an assembly, inserting the Frame Generator, applying frame components, managing file names and data, modifying the bill of material, and cleaning up the model.

1. Introduction

Frame Generator is a powerful tool in Inventor 2011 that allows you to create frame components quickly and efficiently. With Frame Generator, you can easily design and assemble various types of frame structures, such as tables, shelves, and racks. In this article, we will focus on creating a table using Frame Generator.

2. Creating a Skeletal File

To start, we need to create a new part as a skeletal file. We will use the rectangle command to draw a rectangle with dimensions of 60 inches by 48 inches. After finishing the sketch, we will extrude the rectangle to create a box. To make the box transparent, we will change its color to blue clear.

3. Adding Support Braces

Next, we will add support braces to the table. We will create a new sketch on the side and draw two lines to represent the support braces. The size of the support braces is not critical at this stage. Once the sketch is complete, we will extrude it as a surface and add it to the back face of the table.

4. Extruding the Surfaces

After adding the support braces, we will sketch a rectangle on the top of the table. This will serve as a reference for future modifications. With the sketch completed, we will save the part using a unique file name.

5. Creating an Assembly

Now, we will create an assembly to assemble the table components. We will start by opening a new assembly and arranging the parts on the screen. We will then drag and drop the parts into the assembly browser to add them to the assembly.

6. Inserting the Frame Generator

To utilize the Frame Generator, we will go to the design tab and start the insert frame generator command. The Frame Generator offers different standards and families of standards that we can choose from. For the table, we will select a square tubing with a size of 2 inches by 2 inches by a quarter inch.

7. Applying Frame Components

With the Frame Generator active, we can select the individual lines or edges of the table to apply the frame components. We can choose to position the components either on the outside or inside of the box. It is crucial to ensure that the file names for each frame component are unique to avoid any conflicts.

8. Managing File Names and Data

When applying the frame components, we need to provide unique frame filenames to prevent non-unique files in future frames. We also recommend adding a unique prefix to each frame component to ensure complete data management.

9. Modifying the Bill of Material

To optimize the bill of material, we can modify the visibility and structure of the components. By changing the visibility of the skeletal file to Phantom, we can exclude it from the parts list. Additionally, we can enable the structure tab to display proper part numbering and component hierarchy in the bill of material.

10. Cleaning Up the Model

To finalize the model, we can use the trim, extend, and notch commands to create precise and seamless connections between the frame components. Through proper data management and cleanup techniques, we can ensure the model is organized and ready for further modifications or manufacturing.

In conclusion, creating a table with Frame Generator in Inventor 2011 is a straightforward process that allows for quick and efficient design. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can utilize the full potential of Frame Generator to create various frame structures. Whether it's a table, shelf, or rack, Frame Generator offers a practical solution for your frame design needs.

Highlights

• Use Frame Generator in Inventor 2011 to create frame components quickly and efficiently.
• Start by creating a skeletal file and adding support braces to the table.
• Utilize the extrude command to create surfaces and make the table transparent.
• Create an assembly and insert the Frame Generator to apply frame components.
• Manage file names and data to ensure uniqueness and proper data management.
• Modify the bill of material to optimize component visibility and structure.
• Clean up the model using trim, extend, and notch commands for seamless connections.

FAQ

Q: Can I modify the dimensions of the table after applying the frame components?

A: Yes, you can make modifications to the dimensions of the table by editing the original sketch. The changes will be reflected in the frame components.

Q: Can I apply different frame components to different parts of the table?

A: Yes, you can selectively apply frame components to specific parts of the table by selecting the corresponding lines or edges.

Q: How can I ensure that the file names are unique when using the Frame Generator?

A: It is essential to provide a unique frame filename when applying frame components. Adding a prefix or a unique code to each component will help maintain file name uniqueness.

Q: Can I use Frame Generator for structures other than tables?

A: Yes, Frame Generator is a versatile tool that can be used for various frame structures such as shelves, racks, and frames for industrial equipment.

Q: Do I need any specific expertise to use Frame Generator in Inventor 2011?

A: While familiarity with Inventor 2011 is helpful, Frame Generator is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to users of all skill levels. The step-by-step guide provided in this article will help you navigate through the process smoothly.

Q: Is it possible to export the assembly to other file formats for manufacturing purposes?

A: Yes, Inventor 2011 allows you to export the assembly to various file formats such as STEP, IGES, or DWG for further manufacturing processes.