Pretty fast you might say. Well how about creating a Compression spring with flattened ends, or an Extension, Torsion, or Spiral Spring?

There is a SolidWorks Macro which can do all this. You can download this macro from 3dContentCentral here. (If you are having difficulty getting the macro, just drop us an email to support@solidsolutions.ie )

How to use:

1. Download the Zip file containing the Macro from www.3dcontentcentral.com
2. Extract the Zip file to locate the file “macro gerador de molas springapi.swp”
3. Open SolidWorks. Create a New Part. Sketch a Circle on the Top Plane. Click Rebuild (and/or exit the sketch).
4. Under the Tools drop-down menu, choose Macro -> Run (browse to the above swp file).
5. A dialog will appear on the left where you can choose from the available options.

How-to Video
Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Some people asked about having the loops of the extension spring at right angles. No problem. Just choose the option “Height and Revolution” and insert 9.5 (etc.) for the revolutions. The remaining feature on the design tree can be easily edited to change the properties of the spring afterwards. Experiment yourself to see the many options available.

Happy Modelling. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks. Feel free to subscribe and recieve these tips via email. Subscribe to Solid Solutions Ireland News by Email

References: 1, 2

Posted on: 3rd January 2010, by Stephen Burke. Filed under: Tech Tips.