My Journey with pib: Empowering Robotics through Onshape

Introduction:

As a mechanical engineer with over 20 years of experience in CAD, I’ve always been passionate about creating and building innovative projects. Six months ago, I joined the open-source project pib (printable intelligent bot), initiated by isento GmbH. Pib is a 3D printable humanoid robot designed to make robotics accessible to everyone. In this blog post, I will share my experiences and contributions to the project.

Pib: An Open-Source Robotics Revolution:

Pib is a groundbreaking 3D printable humanoid robot that aims to engage people in the fields of robotics, 3D printing, and AI. The project’s website provides free 3D printing templates, assembly instructions, and a supportive community on Discord for collaboration and assistance.

My Contributions to pib:

  1. FeatureScript for Part Number Imprints and Metadata:
    I developed a FeatureScript in Onshape to imprint the part number on each component. This script also inputs other data, such as print settings, which are then stored in the metadata of each part.
  2. FeatureScript for Hexagonal Pockets and Crush Corners:
    I’m currently perfecting a FeatureScript that detects all hexagonal pockets in a part and adds small “crush corners” to the hexagonal profile. This feature eases the holding of M3 nuts and simplifies pib’s assembly process.
  3. Simulation for Flexible Press-Fits:
    Utilizing Onshape’s built-in simulation tools, I designed flexible press-fits for the 2×20 metal rods. This improvement facilitated printing small holes to hold the rods without damaging the 3D printed parts during assembly.
  4. Configurations for Part Visibility Control:
    I contributed to integrating configurations that control part visibility, allowing users to choose whether to display only the printed parts or also show metal parts and electronics.
FeatureScript for Part Number Imprints and Metadata:
FeatureScript für hexagonale Taschen und Quetschecken
Simulation for Flexible Press-Fits
Konfigurationen zur Steuerung der Teilesichtbarkeit

Pib@school: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators:

Pib@school is an educational initiative aimed at familiarizing students with robotics, 3D printing, and AI. This hands-on program introduces students to STEM topics and equips schools with packages for building and operating their own humanoid robots.

Join the pib Community:

If you’re interested in contributing to pib’s development or simply want to learn more about the project, join the pib community on Discord. Collaborate with like-minded individuals, share your ideas, and help shape the future of robotics.

Conclusion:

Pib is a pioneering project that leverages the power of Onshape to democratize robotics. As a mechanical engineer and a proud member of the pib community, I’m thrilled to be part of this journey and contribute to the development of the printable intelligent bot. Join us in building the future of robotics and exploring the potential of 3D printing and AI.

Onshape

Glanzner Dynamics successfully uses the classic CAD software Autodesk Inventor with over 10 years of experience.
But nothing is more constant than the change and therefore in the future
Onshape will be used as the primary CAD software.

Onshape is a full-fledged CAD software in the cloud. This brings a number of advantages for the designer and the customer.

  • No installation necessary
  • No more annoying files
  • Everyone always has the same version of the software
  • Automatic updates, no waiting time
  • Integrated drawing management with approval
  • Programming interface to create own features
  • No saving necessary
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Mechanical simulation of complex assemblies

Based on the calculation of the “Work-and-Go” I would like to present the advantages of simulations of large assemblies with SIMSOLID.

The classic finite element method is a proven solution when complex mechanical problems need to be calculated.

All you need is the geometry, material data and loads. Then you select your preferred FEM software, import the geometry and assign the material data to the individual parts.

Continue reading “Mechanical simulation of complex assemblies”

The Work-and-Go Project

You’re probably sitting there reading this, right?

According to a recent study, Germans spend an average of 7.5 hours sitting on workdays. The statement “sitting is the new smoking”, which makes it clear that the lack of exercise has a negative effect on the body, is repeated.

Daily exercise has many advantages: Improves health, reduces stress, increases concentration and leads to a positive mood.

Office workers are often forced to sit at their desks for several hours every day. Of course you can also use a standing desk, which is definitely an improvement over sitting. However, this is also a kind of “rest position” which can also have a negative effect on one’s own health.

Continue reading “The Work-and-Go Project”