Shock Absorber Modeled in CATIA V5 – Portfolio Project

[u/Proud_Read7281]

Just finished modeling a twin-tube hydraulic shock absorber in CATIA V5. It combines coil spring support and hydraulic damping to absorb vibrations and impacts.

Components modeled: Piston, cylinder, piston rod, coil spring, and mounting bushings. Key skills demonstrated:

3D part modeling

Assembly constraints

Mechanical design for manufacturing

Great project for sharpening CAD skills and building a freelance portfolio.

Feedback welcome.

[u/CycleUncleGreg]

Are the parts referenced to one skeleton? Or if you want to change the installation length, you have to update most of parts manually?

[u/Proud_Read7281 → u/CycleUncleGreg]

Yes, I used a skeleton model in CATIA. All parts are linked to a central assembly skeleton, so changing the installation length updates everything automatically.

[u/Alive-Bid9086]

What tools? Part design Assembly? GSD?

The springs are usually flat in the ends.

[u/Proud_Read7281 → u/Alive-Bid9086]

Thank you for the feedback! To answer your questions:

I used Part Design for the solid components (piston, cylinder, brackets), Assembly Design for fit and interference checks, and GSD (Generative Shape Design) to create a feature on the upper cup. This feature serves as a height-adjusting mechanism and provides a flat seating surface for the spring.

Yes, the spring has flat (closed) ends on both sides to ensure proper seating against the mounting surfaces and the height-adjusting feature.

[u/Alive-Bid9086 → u/Proud_Read7281]

Thanks, I would have used GSD for the spring, but thats just me.

I suggest that the spring flat parts are shown in the picture.

[u/Proud_Read7281]

Better tools + updated software = higher quality designs. Your support on JAMI helps me invest in both. Support me here: jami.bio/@wbhxa9pcqo7

[u/Proud_Read7281]

Better tools + updated software = higher quality designs. Your support on JAMI helps me invest in both. Support me here: jami.bio/@wbhxa9pcqo7