Step-by-step tutorial for hex infull?

kennethwongsf

Hi Onshape gurus!

I think I need some help with using the Hex Infill FeatureScript.

I made two attempts at what I thought were fairly simple test cases, but couldn't get the hex to generate for some reason.

In the first test, I simply applied the hex infill FeatureScript on a solid rectangle part with rounded edges. I could get the hex pattern displayed on the surface like a sketch, but the actual hex patterns didn't materialize. (See image below.)



In the second test, I tried applying the Hex Infill to the same part after I shelled it. It succeeded in superimposing the patterns onto the part during preview, but then failed in the final stage, with the message "Unable to shell part with the current wall thickness." (See image attached.)



Am I missing some steps?

Best,

--Kenneth Wong

kevin_o_toole_1

Hi Kenneth,

In your first picture, unchecking the HexPreview box should give you what you want. Preview mode will quickly generate a sketch that shows you where the hexes will go with the current parameters. Unchecking the box will actually perform the geometric change (which can be slow, hence the desire for a preview mode).

In your second attempt, the hexfill feature will always put the filling inside the current part, even if that part is a thin shell. You're running into issues because there's not enough room inside the part to fit your infill with the parameters you chose.

– Kevin

philip_thomas

Thank you Kevin - I couldn't have said it better myself

Keneth, all of the sample custom features have a PDF inserted into the first tab that show you how the feature works - in this case explaining the function of the preview button and the requirement that the part be 'shellable' - ok now I am just making up words. 
There is another thread where I go into much more detail - including a worked example similar to yours where you wanted the hex open at the top - here is that thread ....

https://forum.onshape.com/discussion/3977/lighten-then-hex-infill-trying-to-hex-infill-a-previously-lightened-area

Please feel free to ask any questions. 

kevin_o_toole_1

Hi Kenneth,

In your first picture, unchecking the HexPreview box should give you what you want. Preview mode will quickly generate a sketch that shows you where the hexes will go with the current parameters. Unchecking the box will actually perform the geometric change (which can be slow, hence the desire for a preview mode).

In your second attempt, the hexfill feature will always put the filling inside the current part, even if that part is a thin shell. You're running into issues because there's not enough room inside the part to fit your infill with the parameters you chose.

– Kevin

philip_thomas

Thank you Kevin - I couldn't have said it better myself

Keneth, all of the sample custom features have a PDF inserted into the first tab that show you how the feature works - in this case explaining the function of the preview button and the requirement that the part be 'shellable' - ok now I am just making up words. 
There is another thread where I go into much more detail - including a worked example similar to yours where you wanted the hex open at the top - here is that thread ....

https://forum.onshape.com/discussion/3977/lighten-then-hex-infill-trying-to-hex-infill-a-previously-lightened-area

Please feel free to ask any questions. 

kennethwongsf

Thanks, Kevin and Philip! I'll try the Bolean cutoff approach as outlined in another post to see if that gives me what I want.