Roller Coaster CAD Modeling - Part 1

Summary

In this instructional video, Nick demonstrates a method for modeling a roller coaster in 3D CAD software, specifically using CATIA V5. He outlines the process from creating an axis system and overhead sketch to defining major features and side profile. The tutorial covers adjusting dimensions, applying formulas for automatic updates, and using the 'Law' command to wrap the side profile around the layout. Although the video focuses on a basic model without banking, Nick promises a follow-up to add more complexity, showcasing a hands-on approach to roller coaster design.

Takeaways

• 🎢 The video demonstrates a method for modeling a roller coaster in 3D CAD software, specifically using CATIA V5, which is commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries.
• 🛠️ The presenter suggests that there are multiple ways to model a roller coaster, and this is just one of them, acknowledging that it may not be the best way but serves as an example.
• 📊 Matt from Print My Ride Detroit is mentioned for his videos on using No Limits software to design roller coasters and exporting vertex data to an Excel spreadsheet for further use in CAD programs.
• 📐 The process begins with creating an axis system and an overhead sketch of the roller coaster layout, starting with simple shapes like an oval for the example.
• 🔄 The model is adjustable, and dimensions can be modified later, but the presenter emphasizes the importance of having a complete circuit for the method to work properly.
• 📍 Major features of the roller coaster are identified and marked with points, such as the top of the lift, the bottom of the first drop, and the top of bunny hills.
• 📏 The use of formulas in the sketch allows for automatic updates when points are moved, providing a dynamic and flexible design process.
• 📉 The side profile of the roller coaster is created next, with the presenter detailing how to sketch the coaster's features, such as the lift hill, drops, and turns.
• 🔲 The 'Law' command is introduced to vary the value of a parameter, allowing the side profile to wrap around the layout track, creating a more realistic representation of the roller coaster.
• 🛤️ A reference surface is created to represent the ground, and the presenter discusses the process of adding banking to the roller coaster in a future video.
• 🛤️+ The final part of the script shows how to create the roller track, including the load-bearing wheels and side wheels, and how to adjust the design for a more realistic appearance.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is demonstrating a method of modeling a roller coaster in 3D CAD software.

Who is the presenter of the video?

The presenter of the video is Nick.

What CAD software is used in the video for the example?

CATIA V5 is used in the video for the example, which is commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries.

What is the first step Nick takes in the modeling process?

The first step Nick takes is creating an axis system and an overhead sketch of the roller coaster layout.

Why does Nick choose to make an overhead sketch of the roller coaster layout?

Nick makes an overhead sketch to establish the basic layout and dimensions of the roller coaster, which will serve as a foundation for the 3D model.

What is the significance of creating points at major features of the coaster in the modeling process?

Creating points at major features helps to define key locations and heights of the roller coaster, making it easier to build the 3D model accurately and adjust the layout if needed.

What is the purpose of using the 'Law' command in the video?

The 'Law' command is used to vary the value of a parameter, allowing the side profile of the roller coaster to wrap around the layout track dynamically.

How does Nick approach the design of the roller coaster's side profile?

Nick sketches the side profile of the roller coaster, including the lift hill, drops, and turns, and then uses formulas and references to ensure accuracy and adjustability.

What historical reference does Nick make regarding the design of roller coasters without CAD software?

Nick refers to Bob Kerr's design of the Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland, where he had to manually draw the side profile and overhead view on paper without the aid of CAD software.

What is the final step shown in the video script for the roller coaster model?

The final step shown is creating the track of the roller coaster by drawing the shape of the track and mirroring it, which represents the load-bearing wheels and side wheels.

Does the video script cover the topic of roller coaster banking?

No, the video script does not cover the topic of roller coaster banking. Nick mentions that he will cover it in a part two of the video.

What additional elements does Nick plan to add in a follow-up video?

In a follow-up video, Nick plans to show how to add banking to the roller coaster model and possibly details like cross ties.

Outlines

00:00

🎢 Introduction to 3D CAD Roller Coaster Modeling

Nick introduces a method for modeling a roller coaster in 3D CAD software, emphasizing it's not the only way but one of the possible approaches. He references Matt's videos on 'Print My Ride Detroit' for an alternative method involving 'No Limits' software and Excel spreadsheets. The focus is on using CATIA V5, common in automotive and aerospace, to create an axis system and an overhead sketch for a simple roller coaster layout. Nick outlines the process of creating a basic oval-shaped layout with adjustable dimensions and explains the importance of constraints in the sketch.

05:04

📏 Sketching the Roller Coaster Layout and Key Points

The paragraph details the process of sketching the roller coaster's layout by placing points at major features such as the top of the lift hill and the bottom of the first drop. Nick discusses the importance of these points as reference for the side profile and mentions the flexibility of the method, allowing for adjustments later on. He also introduces the concept of using formulas to automatically update the layout when points are moved, providing a visual reference for the side profile of the roller coaster.

10:06

🛤️ Creating the Side Profile of the Roller Coaster

Nick proceeds to create the side profile of the roller coaster by sketching the major features and using lines to represent the layout in a straightened form. He explains the use of formulas to ensure the lines update automatically with any changes to the points. The paragraph also covers adjusting the angles and heights of the roller coaster's features, such as the lift hill and bunny hills, to create a realistic profile. The process involves refining the sketch to ensure the roller coaster's design is visually coherent and functionally sound.

15:08

🔗 Utilizing the Law Command for Profile Extrusion

In this section, Nick explains how to use the 'Law' command in CATIA to extrude the overhead layout and create the 3D form of the roller coaster. He describes selecting the x-axis and defining the profile from start to end, then using the 'Law' command to vary the value of a parameter, allowing the side profile to wrap around the layout track. The paragraph covers the steps to create the centerline of the roller coaster and adjust the curvature for a more realistic and smoother design.

20:08

🛤️ Finalizing the Roller Coaster Track Design

The final paragraph covers the process of turning the centerline into an actual roller coaster track. Nick demonstrates how to create a Rocky Mountain Construction iron horse steel track, detailing the positioning of the load-bearing wheels and side wheels. He shows how to mirror the profile and use the 'Part Design' and 'Profile' commands to finalize the track shape. The paragraph concludes with a brief mention of adding banking in a future tutorial and a summary of the roller coaster's design without banking, inviting viewers to look forward to part two of the video.

Keywords

💡3D CAD Software

3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Software is a type of program used to create and modify 3D models. In the video, it is the primary tool used to model a roller coaster. The script mentions using CATIA V5, a specific example of such software, which is popular in the automotive and aerospace industries. The software allows for the creation of an overhead layout and the side profile of the roller coaster, demonstrating its utility in designing complex structures.

💡Roller Coaster Model

A roller coaster model refers to a representation of a roller coaster, either in physical form or as a digital design. In the context of the video, the model is created digitally within 3D CAD software. The process involves sketching an overhead layout and a side profile, which are then used to generate the 3D shape of the roller coaster. The script discusses turning simple sketches into a free roller coaster model, emphasizing the creative and technical aspects of the design process.

💡Axis System

An axis system in 3D design is a reference framework that defines the orientation and position of objects within the model. In the script, the presenter begins by creating an axis system to base the entire roller coaster design off of. This is crucial for ensuring that all elements of the roller coaster are correctly aligned and positioned relative to each other in the 3D space.

💡Overhead Sketch

An overhead sketch is a top-down view of a design, used to plan the layout of objects. In the video, the roller coaster's layout is sketched from an overhead perspective, allowing the designer to map out the track's path, including turns, hills, and drops. The script describes creating a simple oval layout for the roller coaster, which is then used as a basis for further design work.

💡Lift Hill

A lift hill is the initial incline at the start of a roller coaster, which lifts the train to its highest point before the first drop. In the script, the presenter discusses placing the lift hill in the roller coaster's layout and ensuring that it is part of the overhead sketch. The lift hill is a fundamental element of roller coaster design, setting the stage for the ride's dynamics.

💡First Drop

The first drop is the descent from the highest point of a roller coaster, typically following the lift hill. It is a key moment in the ride experience, often providing a thrilling sensation of falling. The video script describes marking the bottom of the first drop in the design process, indicating its importance in the overall layout and the rider's experience.

💡Bunny Hill

A bunny hill is a term used in the roller coaster industry to describe a small hill or bump on the track. In the script, the presenter includes a bunny hill in the roller coaster design, which would provide a minor lift and subsequent drop for the riders, adding variety to the ride's profile.

💡Side Profile

The side profile of a roller coaster refers to its vertical view, showing the elevation changes along the track. In the video, the presenter sketches the side profile to define the height and steepness of the roller coaster's hills, drops, and turns. This profile is essential for understanding the physical experience of the ride and ensuring that the design meets safety and engineering standards.

💡Law Command

In the context of the video, the 'law command' is a feature within the CAD software that allows for the variation of a parameter's value. It is used to wrap the side profile around the overhead layout, creating a 3D model of the roller coaster. The command is crucial for transforming the 2D sketches into a 3D form, as demonstrated when the presenter uses it to generate the center line of the roller coaster.

💡Radius

Radius in the context of roller coaster design refers to the curvature of the track, particularly at turns. The script mentions adjusting the radius to ensure that the forces on the train are within allowable limits. The presenter uses the term when discussing the design of turns, emphasizing the importance of radius in creating a safe and enjoyable ride.

💡Track

The track is the physical path along which the roller coaster train travels. In the video, the presenter demonstrates how to design the track using the center line as a guide, including the load-bearing wheels and side wheels. The track design is a critical aspect of the roller coaster, affecting both the ride experience and the structural integrity of the attraction.

Highlights

Nick introduces a method for modeling a roller coaster in 3D CAD software, emphasizing it's not the only way but one of the possible approaches.

Mention of Matt's videos on 'Print My Ride Detroit' showcasing an alternative method using No Limits software and Excel for designing roller coasters.

Nick's past article on 'coaster101.com' from 2011, which details the process of turning a sketch into a free roller coaster model.

Use of CATIA V5, a CAD software predominantly used in automotive and aerospace industries, for the demonstration.

Creating an axis system and an overhead sketch for the roller coaster layout, starting with a simple oval shape.

Explanation of the adjustable nature of the roller coaster model, allowing for modifications and refinements later.

The process of trimming the sketch to end before a full circuit is completed, with plans to fill it in later.

Placing and renaming points at major features of the roller coaster, such as the start, top of the lift, and bottom of the first drop.

Introduction of the concept of using formulas in the sketch to automatically update when points are moved.

Creating a side profile of the roller coaster with lines and points to establish the major features' positions.

Use of the 'Law' command to vary the value of a parameter, allowing the side profile to wrap around the layout track.

Extruding the overhead layout to ensure it's taller than the tallest part of the side profile for proper modeling.

Adding radius to the roller coaster model to ensure it stays above ground level and to mimic real-world roller coaster design.

Historical note on how Bob Kerr designed the Matterhorn bobsleds without CAD software, using only paper and drawings.

Demonstration of adjusting the roller coaster's side profile to correct steepness and curvature for a more realistic design.

Creating a reference surface to act as the ground and using it to guide the roller coaster track's design.

Quick demonstration on how to turn the center line into a roller track, including the design of the track's load-bearing elements.

Plans for a part two of the video to show how to add banking to the roller coaster model and further details on construction.

Transcripts

hey this is nick quickly show you one

method of how to model a roller coaster

in 3d cad software now there are lots of

ways to do it i'm not saying this is the

best way i'm just saying showing you

this is one method how you might do it

matt over at print my ride detroit has

been uploading some great videos on

another way you can actually go and

design a roller coaster no limits to

software and then export all the vertex

data into an excel spreadsheet and then

you can

actually upload that directly into your

cab program whether that's solid works

or something else so that's that's

another method the way i'm going to show

you i actually wrote an article about

this back on

coaster101.com back in 2011 and it's

basically just taking a couple

of and turning that into a free

rollercoaster model so let's get started

here

so i'm using the

catia v5

for this example

which is mostly used the

automotive and aerospace industries

so the first thing i'm going to do

i'm going to make an axis system

where everything's going to be based off

of

and i'm going to make an overhead sketch

of the roller coaster layout

okay

oh i'm just going to make simple

kitty roller coaster so it's just gonna

be essentially like

an oval

layout

0

all right so

let's put a radius here so

12 foot diameter

turning

and

from here to here i'm just making up

these

dimensions

so in the end this thing they look kind

of wonky but

it's adjustable it can be fixed later

slap some

rinsing on here when it's all green that

means it's fully constrained

but however i don't think

for this method to work i don't think i

can have a complete

circuit exactly

but it can be filled in later

i'm going to just

trim this sound

dripping one of the wrong sides

i just want to end it right before

all right so the way that i'm looking at

this is station's going to be in

somewhere in here i'm going to go up a

lift hill

first drop somebody going to curve down

this

on this turn and then maybe like a bunny

hill or two on the street and then turn

around back in the station

that is our

overhead layout

maybe like the shorter

so if the lift starts maybe here

i don't know we'll figure it out

so there's the overhead lamp of the

coaster

so next

um i want to make some points

oh i know

uncurved

how far away

things are

curve

curve

zero

right there

forwards point

so i'm going to put the points at the

major features of the coaster so let's

say i want the top of the lift to be

here

it's going to be 12 feet in

so i'm going to rename these points

start

[Music]

too much

top of lift

this part you don't have to do

you could get by without this

let's say i want the bottom of the first

drop to be here

so that's going to be 32 feet from the

start

drop

it was eating the bottom of the first

drop is the reference point now the

start

i'll make sure the start is the

reference point

bottom of the first drop

so next i want to do the top of bunny

hill

make it there for now sure

and

say

bottom

video

whatever you want to call it

a little hill going around the curve

here at the the end

midpoint of the curve

right there

maybe we'll outside make that turn or

something i don't know

and then it's one final point

to bring it home

whenever we want to be flattened back

out so the station area is

flat

okay

next

i'm going to make sketch

and i'm just going to put lines

i'll start to here

so i want this

this tends to be the same as this

when i make my side profile

coaster

i know where

i

kind of wanted my major features to be

and you don't have to do this you could

kind of just eyeball it and

tweak it later but

it works and the reason i'm using

formulas here is if i move these points

around

these lines will automatically update

the length of these lines doesn't matter

a visual

reference

there's

all right

these are the lines

if you take this layout and lay it out

straight all the points on this curve

would coincide with these lines

right now you're probably thinking what

that

was like a waste of

time

hold on with bear with just bear with me

a minute here okay

thanks for hiding so next we're gonna

make the side profile of the coaster

should have put them in their own

geometrical step and i could just

hit that

oh all right so here's

our lines now we can start sketching the

coaster

start here

arrow

straight so this line

is where we wanted to have the top of

the

left hill

how high do we want to make our coaster

12 feet

down like this is a

backyard roller coaster or something

well that is a

very steep uh lift fill here angles that

48

45.

so it's pretty steep left hill

so i want to have a little more flat

here

here i think i'm actually going to move

our

top of our

still

so here this will show you how

everything

moves if i go back here

make this a little longer

hopefully this doesn't screw everything

up

all right

that line

all right

obviously i just want to know where this

line is because if the lift hill extends

past this it's going to start to be on

the curve the left hill needs to all be

all on this

straight

it's going to be like this

so we'll have a little flat at the top

the lift so then this one is the bottom

of the lift

we're going to start going down

bunny hill

back down

i'm going below

zero here

i'll show you why in a minute

and then we have one more little hill

here

back down

then flat into the station

this is our last

we're gonna

make sure that lines up

look at the roller coaster pretty sweet

wow

all right

now it's time to add some

radius in there

this is basically the ground

well i want to make sure everything ends

up being

above the ground

now in a real roller coaster i think

you'd have varying

varying radiuses to

make make sure the forces on the

trains or within the

allowable limits but for just for

example just a simple

curve is all we're going to do

radius they're going to be smaller ones

at the top left here

i think the

point up the lift i think is steeper

than the drop oh well

we'll change that later

pretty tight uh

curvature here only

three

two

two foot there

okay

on our little bunny hill

three big radius there

relatively speaking

there

and there

and this this line is dotted because

it's a construction line so you can see

when i go out of the sketch uh it won't

be there it'll just show the side

profile

so if i go here

and hide these

there's the side profile view of our

rollercoaster

a little funky but

get the idea

now the crazy thing to me is this is

relatively how

bob kerr designed the matterhorn bob's

bobsleds he basically on paper he didn't

have cad software on paper he had to

draw a

side profile on the overhead view and

come up with the layout that way

not just one code track but two tracks

and you have to avoid the supports for

the balance structure as well

which is crazy to me

all right

so next we need to get this side profile

to wrap around the layout track

that's one thing we're going to do we're

going to use what's called the law

command which allows you to vary the

value of a parameter

so reference

select the

x-axis

here

the definition will be profile

like that start to end

okay

there in the tree come back to that

second

so we're going to

extrude our overhead layout

i want to make sure it's taller than the

tallest part of

the side profile

now we do

parallel

curve command

curve is going to be overhead layout

plane is going to be

surface we just made

now for constant we're going to go to

law

we're going to select the law

just made

see here the tallest part of the ride is

12 feet

second hill's 5 feet and so on

close

now

let's see

there is our

center line of our roller coaster

now it's looking like something

a little thicker

change the color

see there's our lift hill

first drop

your time hill

crazy funky

turn at the end

so the radius on here is pretty tight so

that looks kind of funky so

let's go back in

to our sketch

just like this

bigger and more smooth

back to here

[Music]

update this

more of a gentle

turn

all right

so we've got the center line

uh

next

we're gonna make a sweet

reference surface

a little guide curve

like this reference surface it's going

to be the ground essentially

we're going to choose

xy plane

and for now i'm just going to make it so

it's zero

come out the foot on each side

so for this video i think i'm just going

to

keep it like that i'll do an uh part two

later where i show you how to add

banking but basically you're just gonna

take this

you're gonna make you're gonna make

another scat 2d sketch just like your

profile but that sketches where the

angles

and over here instead of having zero

degrees happen instead of having the

track essentially

parallel to the ground the whole time

you just make another

sketch and make another law and then you

apply the law here and that will rotate

that angle

using uh the laws now using the method

we kind of just used

but i just want to quickly show you this

oh

so the next thing you can do

you want to like if you have a service

here how do you make uh turn this into a

roller track

draw

track here

so let's say i want to make like

rocky mountain construction

iron horse steel track

um so typically if this is your center

line of where the riders are the track

would be

you know much lower here because that

needs to be where that roughly where the

heart of the riders are

but for this

purpose of this quick demonstration i'm

just going to make the track basically

tangent with the

center line

the here mount construction

tracks especially this sort of shape so

you have the

weight bearing load bearing wheels on

top

and side wheels like friction wheels

here and then the upside wheels here

so

just make this shape

and mirror it

except this profile here

part design

profile

center curve

put that reference surface in there so

that's what you need to select this

there now it will look better

i will hide

[Music]

there

like that

and change the background color to white

on this the macro

automatically switches it

there is just

a quick

roller coaster

again it looks a little

funky because the

videos

let's go back in

to your

my profile sketch

and that's hard to see because i changed

it to white change it back to purple

you can make

those a little

vary the angles

make these

more smooth

so on and so on

you get the idea

make the first drop

and steeper

we're probably gonna screw up something

we have more of a flat on the top

but we can get bigger

radiuses up here

and just drop let's see how that looks

date

there's a little flat on the turn

that starts to go down this drop

nice little airtime hill here

and this little mermaid turn and back to

the station

so again that's with no banking

i don't want to make this video too long

so i'll leave it at that and then

later i will do a part two show you how

we make this turn

and then you can start adding

cross ties

and yeah turn into a roller coaster so

yeah

again this is just one method there's

lots of different methods of

water roller coasters so if you have any

questions or comments uh

in the

comments below thanks for watching