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1D: Design Methodology - Simple Swerve Drivebase

Adding More Components

When you model more parts in the part studio, you can insert them into the assembly in a similar to fashion to before. Hit insert and immediately click on the green checkmark. Then, edit the initial Group you made and add the part to the group. By doing this, you ensure that added parts will always stay in the same place it was modeled in the part studio.

Let's add a gusset to connect the 2"x2" tube to the 2"x1" tube.

Instructions

Start by navigating to the Drivetrain Part Studio in the Drivetrain folder. Follow the instructions in the slides to add the gusset.

0. Finished drivetrain assembly.
1. Add the gusset for the crosstube with the Gusset Featurescript.
2. Insert the gusset into the assembly and add it to the Group.
3. Copy the gusset and mate it to the other side.
4. Edit the replicate feature to add rivets to the gusset.
4. Finished drivetrain assembly.

Make sure you sort the instances in your assembly into folders (i.e. frame, swerve modules) and name any patterns and replicates used. This will help you locate components in the assembly later down the line.

Verification

Make sure to have you and/or a more experienced member/mentor of your team review your CAD!

Your assembly should weigh approximately 37.2lbs.

Your tab manager should have the following tabs and folder:

Level of Detail

It should be noted that while modeling every detail of the robot hardware (bolts, rivets, nuts) is beneficial for purchasing and real life assembly purposes, it isn't strictly necessary. Time is a precious resource, especially during build season, so you should spend it on what will give you the biggest return.

More details about best practices for Onshape assemblies are included on the Assembly Best Practices Page.