Using OnShape CAD with VEX parts

VEX V5 General Discussion General Forum
1

I have a team that wants to use OnShape to design their robot. We found a parts library on the OnShape files. It opens and we can see all the parts. There is also some small sample assemblies. When we try to move the pieces around OnShape seems to hang.

So I’m looking for someone that has used OnShape successfully with the VEX parts library.

Thanks!

(and while posts saying we use xyz CAD package are informative, this team is really interested in using OnShape)

2

Is this the library that you were trying to use?
https://cad.onshape.com/documents/5782e53fe4b0b7679dbf9f2c

When you tried to use the library, did you create a private copy of the document, or did you insert the parts into a blank document using the insert dialog? Creating a copy of the entire document can cause OnShape to run slowly due to the large number of parts that have to be loaded. There should be a PDF file in the first tab of the library above that shows the insert dialog method.

3

I have a decent amount of experience using Onshape, I would recommend you download all the step files onto your computer and import them as needed, pm me and I’ll send you a link to a library later

4

The benefit of using the library is that all the files have already been uploaded, the appearances have been set, and the assemblies like the wheels, turntables, etc. have been constrained together. If you only insert the parts that you need into an empty document using the insert dialog, you should not have a problem with Onshape hanging up.

1 Like
5

@AZ_RobotLab
I had a different library, so I scrapped it and got yours. (Like the PDF in the front, thanks)

I can put small parts in and it works OK.

But if I grab a sample assembly, like the clawbot, it takes about 2 mins to import it. When I try to move it, or any part of it, OnShape just stops. On a second try I got a WebGL issue box. I’ll swing by the team this afternoon and see if I have any better luck on their computer.

@shawman94588 - I get the impression that AZ_RobotLab has done all the import from the STEP files, so I’m going to stick with that for now, but I may get back to you if I don’t make any progress.

Thanks

6

It could be the graphics on the computer and/or the internet speed. At one point, Onshape recommended at least a 5Mbps connection. Right now my internet speed is at about 12 Mbps and I just imported the clawbot into a new document and was able to move it around ok. Let us know if the team computer works any better.