Build a working CAD assembly with Vector - $500 prize Blind
in
Mechanical Engineering
held by
jeffm5
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TIME REMAINING: 15 days, 16 hours
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Description:
Create an original, ambitious mechanical assembly in Autodesk Fusion OR desktop SOLIDWORKS using Vector. Choose a machine you find interesting, build its interacting parts and demonstrate a complete operating cycle in CAD. We want complex mechanisms that are satisfying to watch and convincing to inspect.Vector is an engineering copilot that works alongside your CAD software. Use it meaningfully to create and revise your assembly. Download: heyvector.co/download
Vector is free to use. You will need your own access to Fusion (Windows or Mac) or desktop SOLIDWORKS (Windows).
Choose your own subject. Ideas include a miniature sorting or packaging factory; a mechanical walking creature; a CNC tool changer; a marble machine with a lift and return loop; a deployable satellite; a working RC drivetrain and suspension; a radial engine cutaway; a mechanical camera lens; an automaton; or a folding rover. These are inspiration, not required designs.
Aim for several interacting mechanisms or functional subassemblies, with believable connections, clearances and coordinated motion. Show at least one complete operating cycle. Complexity should serve the machine's function. No minimum part count.
SUBMIT
1. Editable native Fusion or SOLIDWORKS assembly files, including all referenced parts and assembly relationships, plus a STEP export.
2. A 30-60 second screen capture or CAD animation showing the full assembly and one complete motion cycle. Include an exploded or cutaway view where it helps explain the mechanism. A video link is fine if the platform cannot accept the file.
3. Selected Vector prompts and screenshots, with a short explanation of what Vector created or changed and what you did manually. Manual CAD work is welcome; Vector must contribute substantially to the modeling or revision process.
4. One meaningful design revision made with Vector, shown before and after: for example, change the conveyor width, leg length, gear ratio or folding geometry while preserving the assembly's intended function. This may be included in a separate short clip or screenshots.
5. A brief explanation of how the machine works, your CAD software/version, and any known limitations.
Use your own non-confidential work. Disclose AI assistance and identify any third-party references or standard components as required by Cad Crowd. Submit an original assembly developed for this challenge.
This is a CAD modeling competition with one listed $500 USD first prize before Cad Crowd's designer commission (the current form shows $400 paid to the winner after its 20% commission), not a paid test for every entrant. Physical fabrication, production certification and a manufactured prototype are not required. Submit entries and questions through Cad Crowd.
Wants:
Mechanical coherence and function - 35%: multiple interacting mechanisms, believable connections and clearances, and a complete demonstrated operating cycle.CAD quality and editability - 25%: organized components, meaningful names, appropriate joints/mates, editable native files and a design revision that preserves intended function.
Substantial, documented Vector use - 25%: clear prompts/process evidence showing how Vector helped create and revise the actual assembly.
Originality and visual communication - 15%: an interesting machine and a clear, compelling demonstration.
We will inspect the CAD files as well as the presentation. Thoughtful mechanical complexity matters more than raw part count or rendering polish.
Don't Wants:
Image-only entries or renders without editable CAD; an existing downloaded assembly presented as original work; token Vector use only for a caption or presentation; disconnected decorative parts or unexplained collisions; inflated part counts from repeated fasteners; undisclosed AI or third-party assets; confidential client work. Do not submit a physical build or spend money on fabrication for this contest.
Software:
- Autodesk Fusion OR SOLIDWORKS, with Vector (State version used)
Prepaid Prize
Entries
#11 42 U DISTRIBUTION BOX
by SAQIBZaheer
Hidden design
Download Files
#10 Vector-Assisted Retractable Aircraft Landing Gear Mechanism
by IN_stuctural
Hidden design
Download Files
#9 CYCLEMILL- (Metered Feed Pelletizer)
by Mani_Kiran_Sagar
Hidden design
Download Files
#8 3 axis micromanipulator
by rmir1
Hidden design
Download Files
#7 Single Cylinder Engine
by SaketCad
Hidden design
Download Files
#6 Automated Conveyor Sorting & Packaging Machine
by petera3
Hidden design
#5 Working CAD assembly with Vector
by clintsar
Hidden design
#4 5-Cylinder Four-Stroke Radial Engine with Planetary Prop Reduction
by mshahryark
Hidden design
#3 CAD assembly with Vector
by kadiry2
Hidden design
#2 Pneumatic Rotary Indexing Assembly
by ronnieOvr
Hidden design
Download Files
#1 Compact Cam-Driven Parts Sorting Machine
by samkenny
Hidden design
Download Files
Discussion
Actively using Vector for making Ice Cream Dispensing machine and it really changed the way I work. Will submit my entry within 3 days. I will be submitting 3 CAD models each with 3 different design styles. This has really been a game changer. Thank You very much.
I have an original mechanical machine assembly that I designed entirely myself before this challenge. Am I allowed to use my own existing non-confidential assembly as the starting point, provided that I make a substantial new design revision using Vector specifically for this challenge and clearly document the before-and-after development?
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