How to Design a Degree Measuring Tool Using 3D CAD Software

How to Design a Degree Measuring Tool Using 3D CAD Software

Accurate measurement is a fundamental aspect of design, engineering, and everyday problem-solving. Among the most commonly used instruments for angular measurement is the degree measuring tool, also known as a protractor. With the advancement of digital design software, creating custom tools like this has become more accessible than ever. SelfCAD, a cloud-based 3D modeling platform, enables users to design functional and precise tools through an intuitive interface and powerful features. In this article, we will walk through the process of designing a degree measuring tool using SelfCAD, highlighting the key steps, modeling techniques, and considerations required to produce a reliable and printable instrument.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/6af5m606n6w5w04t186sj6o5g43374vl3jc4

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set height to 2, vertical segments to 128, arc to 180, position z to -25, rotation y to 90.

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click to activate polygon selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

From the right panel choose materials; Set settings to textures, texture category to custom, Click add image button to load new image.

Click load object from tutorial button to add object, Click degree tool.jpg button to apply texture

Set settings to uv, uv generate mode to unwrapping, uv unwrapping mode to manual, Click unwrap button to unwrap object

Set transformation to scale, Drag highlighted gizmo to highlighted point to scale profile

Drag highlighted gizmo to highlighted point to scale profile

Drag highlighted gizmo to highlighted point to scale profile

Tick the checkmark to finalize materials.

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 15, bottom radius to 15, height to 2, arc to 180, position z to -11, rotation y to 90.

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click on mesh 4 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 8 to subtract.

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 1, bottom radius to 1, height to 5, position z to -1.5

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click on difference 1 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 12 to subtract.

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

Click to activate polygon selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

Click inverse selection button to inverse selection

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click white

Click ok

As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.

More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace