Creating a Hexagonal Mesh on a Sphere

Jul 8, 2024

Lecture Notes on Creating a Hexagonal Mesh on a Sphere

Introduction

  • Task: Create a hexagonal grill on a spherical surface
  • Key detail: Hexagons must be same size but the gaps between them will vary since you cannot cover a sphere with evenly sized hexagons.

Steps Involved

Sketching the Sphere and Initial Trim

  • Create a circle with a diameter of 600 units
  • Trim lines and set constructions
  • Dimension example: 80 degrees
  • Create a wall using a sheet with sketch revolving around the axis
  • Offset: -40 to 40 units
  • Extract the geometry

Hexagonal Pattern Setup

  • Create a plane tangent to the sphere's surface
  • Sketch a hexagon on the plane
  • Ensure the hexagon is perpendicular to the defined axis
  • Dimension the hexagon

Projecting the Hexagon

  • Project the hexagon sketch onto the spherical surface
  • Use face normal for projection
  • Trim the sheet using the projected hexagon

Patterning the Hexagons

  • Return to original surface for reference
  • Pattern geometry around the x-axis
  • Distances: Every 60 degrees
  • User-defined angles for y-axis and other axes: 1.75 degrees

Thicken Surfaces and Create Patterns

  • Thicken hexagon surfaces by 1 mm
  • Define number of instances and pitch angle in the pattern
  • Mirror geometry across defined planes

Extract and Modify Geometry

  • Extract geometry at the current timestamp
  • Define and dimension a rectangular centered sketch
  • Project and trim the sketch onto the surface
  • Adjust dimensions as necessary (e.g., 300 to 290 units)

Subtract and Refine Geometry

  • Subtract the modified sketch geometry from the surface
  • Ensure only intended parts are selected to maintain symmetry
  • Hide and unhide bodies to refine view
  • Extend the sheet by 4 mm on all edges, then by 1 mm inside
  • Thicken to create a solid geometry

Final Adjustments

  • Add bridge planes to solids with defined extensions (e.g., 10 mm internal, 15 mm external)
  • Unite various solid bodies
  • Add specific chamfers (e.g., 0.5 mm)

Conclusion

  • Instructions to like, comment, and subscribe to channels and social media for more content.