How to Design a Tape Roller Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Tape Roller Using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Tape Roller Using 3D CAD Software

Designing a tape roller involves understanding both ergonomic principles and functional mechanics, particularly the integration of rotating and stationary parts. SelfCAD, with its robust 3D modeling and sculpting capabilities, provides an ideal platform for creating precise, interlocking components such as rollers, handles, and cutting edges. This article guides the reader through the step-by-step process of modeling a tape roller using SelfCAD. By the end of this guide, readers will have a functional digital model that demonstrates both mechanical logic and design efficiency, suitable for prototyping or manufacturing via 3D printing.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/582738p5j4xh1v3f4sz5g505x5j5x2k5w4i6

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set height to 50, vertical segments to 128

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

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

Click delete button to delete selected objects

From the modify category on the toolbar choose add thickness; Set thickness to 5

Tick the checkmark to finalize add thickness

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 5, bottom radius to 5, height to 50

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click highlighted part on selection cube to turn off region selection

Click on mesh 4 to select it; Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Tick the checkmark to finalize union

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 25, bottom radius to 25, height to 45, vertical segments to 128, position y to 6

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose capsule; Set top radius to 3, bottom radius to 3, height to 20, position y to 45, position z to -20.

Tick the checkmark to finalize capsule

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click black.

Click ok

Click on mesh 12 to select it. Click on mesh 16 to deselect

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

Click ok

Click on mesh 16 to select it

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

Tick the checkmark to finalize union

Click on union 1 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose union 1 to subtract, and set keep subtracted object to true

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 1, depth to 25, position y to 5, position z to 14.

Tick the checkmark finalize cube

Click on difference 1 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 20 to subtract, and set keep subtracted object to true

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

Click on difference 2 to deselect

Click move on the toolbar; Set z to 53 using highlighted gizmo

Click scale on the toolbar; Set x to 5

Click rotate on the toolbar; Set y to 320

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on union 1 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 20 to subtract

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

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