Inspecting/Measuring Countersinks Using SolidWorks

OK, so maybe this is overkill, using SolidWorks to determine the inspection dimensions for countersinks, though doing the trigionometry to calculate these numbers can be a chore. Along with my other SolidWorks tools along this line I created an 'adjustable model' in SolidWorks (2012) that allows you to 'see' the results of changes visually and instantly.

I used to do this in early AutoCAD though now I'm a confirmed SolidWorks user. I printed a quick drawing and included it with the shop floor documentation (router) to make it easy for the guys on the floor. There were less disputes and more accurate parts as a result. How many times have you seen guys 'eyeball' the MAJOR DIA dimension to get want they want? This method is theoretically perfect.

Let's get to using it....

Open the file and you're presented with a simple dimensioned feature showing a countersink performed in a piece of sheet metal. I have added a BALL to allow simple checking. We had a number of these around from broken ball bearings and you can buy them from many places as well.

Double click on the image and the dimensions are able to be viewed. Simply click on the dimension you want to change or edit and the Dimension Feature Manager is presented on the left side of your screen. Edit the dimension as required and click on the Rebuild Icon to update with your changes. Double Click on the feature again to see the updated dimensions.

Actually you can change all of the dimensions here if you like. Click outside the Design Table and SolidWorks will recalculate the dimensions and display the model again. If you reopen the design table the updated dimensions are displayed there as well. I have created a Conditional Format that will Yellow Highlight the Gage Ball Dia cells if the Gage Ball is too small to properly perform this check.

This method would also be ideal for forming countersinks, those that bend or otherwise upset the sheet material and do not present a sharp edge to check from.

Hope this helps!

You can download this file from my Google drive at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_Prq1R5dYgmS1VfS1k5bmZucW8/edit?usp=sharing

If you improve this file please add your contact information to the Summary Information in Properties. A short description of your changes would be great. Please repost the file too!