Role: Mechanical Design Engineer
Focus: Complex Assembly Design, Kinematics, and High-Fidelity Rendering
A complete 3D mechanical design and assembly of a multi-cylinder radial engine, built entirely in SolidWorks. The project demonstrates advanced CAD proficiency in handling complex multi-part assemblies with tight tolerances, intricate surface modeling, and dynamic kinematic relationships — the same engineering discipline used in aircraft piston engines.
The design covers the full mechanical pipeline: from individual component modeling through sub-assembly integration, kinematic motion validation, interference detection, and photorealistic rendering using SolidWorks PhotoView 360.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SolidWorks | 3D parametric modeling and assembly |
| SolidWorks PhotoView 360 | Photorealistic rendering and material texturing |
| SolidWorks Motion Study | Kinematic simulation and stroke cycle validation |
| SolidWorks Interference Detection | Clearance management and zero-interference verification |
- Design for Assembly (DFA) — Components designed with assembly sequence and tolerance stack-up in mind
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) — Applied to critical mating surfaces and bearing interfaces
- Parametric Modeling — Fully driven design allowing rapid iteration of bore, stroke, and displacement parameters
- Kinematic Validation — Motion study confirming correct piston timing and crankshaft rotation across all cylinders
| Sub-Assembly | Description |
|---|---|
| Master & Articulating Rods | High-stress linkage designed for power transmission from pistons to crankshaft |
| Piston & Cylinder Heads | Optimized geometry for thermal dissipation via cooling fins and compression ratio |
| Crankshaft & Cam Ring | Precision timing mechanism for rotary-to-linear motion conversion |
| Crankcase Housing | Structural shell providing bearing support and component enclosure |
- Zero-Interference Assembly — Master rod and articulated connecting rod assembly achieves precise alignment with no geometric conflicts across the full rotation cycle
- Kinematic Motion Validation — Simulated crankshaft rotation and piston timing confirms mechanical feasibility of all stroke cycles
- High-Fidelity Rendering — PhotoView 360 materials, environmental lighting, and camera composition used to produce photorealistic output highlighting surface finish and structural detail
- Parametric Control — Design table-driven parameters allow displacement, bore, and stroke to be modified without rebuilding the assembly
| File | Description |
|---|---|
Radial Engine.STEP |
Universal CAD export — open in any CAD software (Fusion 360, CATIA, etc.) |
Radial Engine.png |
Final photorealistic render |
Analysis - Document.pdf |
Kinematic analysis and engineering study report |
The .STEP file can be opened in any major CAD platform:
- SolidWorks — File → Open → select
.STEP - Fusion 360 — Upload → select
.STEP(free) - FreeCAD — File → Import → select
.STEP(free, open source) - Online — Upload to 3dviewer.net for instant browser viewing (no install needed)
This project is licensed under the MIT License — see the LICENSE file for details.
Designed to demonstrate precision engineering and advanced digital modeling capabilities in SolidWorks.