For Ohio University's Computer Aided Design course, two other students and I modeled a wind turbine gearbox. The goal was to become more profcient in 3D modeling as well as integrate stress analysis into CAD to improve a part's design. The design, modeling, and animation took place over 13 weeks and the project was presented at the end of the semester to our classmates and mechanical engineering faculty. This project required us to use knowledge of machine design to design shafts (geometry, material, keyways, etc.) and to verify SolidWork's finite element analysis results through analytical means. After conducting FEA on the original parts, we improved the design (i.e. thinner walled shaft, or a thinner gear). and redesigned the parts. This course was focused on meshing analytical design techniques (stress and fatigue analysis) with computer-aided design tools to deliver a properly designed and engineered 3D model.
