How to Design a Reuleaux Tetrahedron Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Reuleaux Tetrahedron using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Reuleaux Tetrahedron using 3D CAD Software

The Reuleaux tetrahedron is a fascinating geometric shape, combining mathematical elegance with visual intrigue. Known for its unique blend of symmetry and curvature, this shape has applications in design, engineering, and art. Thanks to modern 3D design software like SelfCAD, creating a Reuleaux tetrahedron is no longer limited to advanced mathematicians or designers. SelfCAD's intuitive interface and robust features make it an ideal platform for crafting this complex form with precision and ease. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of designing a Reuleaux tetrahedron in SelfCAD, highlighting key tools and techniques to bring this captivating shape to life. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced designer, you’ll gain the skills to model this iconic form and explore its creative potential.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/14t455w71366a5s2r6x3974rk5u632s1d6y6

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the drawing category on the toolbar choose 3D sketch; From the tool panel choose circle, Set number of edges to 3

Set bottom/top plane offset to 100, snap to grid vertices to true, Click on highlighted point to draw circle

Click on highlighted point to draw circle

Set number of edges to 30, Click on profile 1 to deselect it, Click on highlighted point to draw circle

Click on highlighted point to draw circle

Click ‘x’ to close 3D sketch panel

Click copy button to copy selected objects

Click rotate on the toolbar; Set origin position to right, x to 90, z to 30

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose sphere; Set radius to 43.3

Click to finalize sphere

From the utilities category on the toolbar choose align; Set reference to profile 2, layer to middle

Click copy button to copy selected objects, Set reference to profile 2(1)

Click ‘x’ to finalize align

Click move on the toolbar, Set x to 0.

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on mesh 4 to select it. Click on mesh 4(1) to deselect

From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set operation to pivot, amount of copies to 2, Click copy button to create copies.

Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel

Click on mesh 4(1) to select

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose intersection.

Click to finalize intersection

From the modify category on the toolbar choose resolution

Click to finalize resolution

Click inverse selection button to inverse selection, Click delete button to delete selected object

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