How to model a dodecahedron

Jens Nielsen

13 Dec, 2021 09:57 AM

Let me show you how to model a platonic surface body and use it for a weldment structure.
3D-file at:
dodecahedron

1. Step 1: 1st 2Dsketch

   

   
   

   draw a pentagon on the top plane, length is arbitrary

   

2. Step 2: 3Dsketch

   

   draw a 3D-line starting at one corner. create two planes, each one connects with the 3D-line and one line from the original polygon. Angle between those line is 108 degrees.

3. Step 3: 2nd polygon

   draw one more identical polygon on one of those planes

   

4. Step 4: make a circular pattern

   

   use the y-axis as rotation axis

5. Step 5: start a 3D-sketch

   project geometry of one edge and create a plane through the midpoint

   

   
   

6. Step 6: mirror the six surface bodies

   

7. Step 7: rotate the mirrored components

   

8. Step 8: start a weldment assembly with the part

   

9. Step 9: insert the frame

   

   window-select the whole part and pick the profile

   
   

10. Step 10: use the miter tool on the joints

    

    pick all three frame members at each joint

    

    
    

11. Step 11: video