Variable thickness refers to a surface characteristic where the thickness changes linearly across its area. This means the surface gets either thicker or thinner from one point to another.
Understanding Variable Thickness
A variable thickness isn't just about having a surface that's not uniform in depth. It's specifically about a linear change in that depth. This consistent rate of increase or decrease gives rise to shapes like tapers, ramps, and wedges.
How is it Defined?
According to the reference, variable thickness must be defined by using at least three distinct points on the surface. These points dictate the thickness of the material at those specific locations. The software or calculation then interpolates linearly, creating a smooth transition between these defined thicknesses across the entire surface.
Key Features of Variable Thickness:
- Linearity: The change in thickness is always constant between the specified points. There are no sudden or non-linear shifts.
- Defined by Points: At least three points are required to properly define and implement a variable thickness.
- Tapered Surfaces: Variable thickness is used to create tapered surfaces. This can include parts like ramps, wedges, or any other object where the depth changes gradually.
Practical Applications of Variable Thickness
Here are some situations where you'd see variable thickness used:
- Modeling Tapers: Accurately creating tapered objects for visual or mechanical analysis.
- Creating Ramps: The gradual increase of thickness helps simulate sloped surfaces.
- Wedge Design: Ideal for modeling wedge-shaped objects that have a changing cross-section along their length.
- Structural Analysis: When material properties (like thickness) vary across a component, this helps to model and analyse it.
Example
Imagine you’re designing a wedge. The base of the wedge may have a 10mm thickness, the middle section, 7mm and the tip 2mm. Variable thickness can help to model the surface such that the thickness varies linearly, rather than a sudden change between 10mm, 7mm and 2mm.
Key Takeaway
Variable thickness is a linear change in the depth of a surface, defined by at least three points, resulting in tapers and other changing surface depths.
