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SURFACE MODELLING
SURFACE MODELLING OF FAN REGULATOR
A PROJECT REPORT

Submitted by

DIVYADHARSHINI K - 2021109010

PAVITHRA S - 2021109031

SUGUNA K M - 2021109040

YASIKA R - 2021109046

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING

IN

SEVENTH SEMESTER

MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

GUINDY ANNA UNIVERSITY,

CHENNAI- 600025 NOV- 2024

 BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that this project “SURFACE MODELLING OF FAN REGULATOR” is the

bonafide work of DIVYADHARSHINI K (2021109010), PAVITHRA S (2021109031),
SUGUNA K M (2021109040), YASIKA R(2021109046) who carried out the project work
under my supervision.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE
Dr. M. OMKUMAR Mr. E . RAJKEERTHI,
HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT, SUPERVISOR,
Dept.of Manufacturing Engineering, Dept.of Manufacturing Engineering
College of Engineering Guindy, College of Engineering Guindy,
Anna University, Anna University,
Chennai – 600 025. Chennai – 600 025.

SIGNATURE
RAMESH B.E., M.E., Ph.D.,
TRAINER
TANCAM
TIDEL
PARK,
Chennai-600013

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

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TRAINER SIGNATURE

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We sincerely thank to Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC), “Naan

Mudhalvan” Platform and Tamil Nadu Centre of Excellence for Advanced Manufacturing
(TANCAM) for encouragement towards our project work for providing necessary skill
training.

We sincerely thank our DEAN Dr. K. S. Easwarakumar, for encouragement towards our
project works.

We also thank our Head of the Department and our project guide and our parents for the
complete and wholehearted support, motivation guidance and help in making our project
activities.

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 ABSTRACT

This report presents a comprehensive approach for surface modelling of fan regulator, aiming
to enhance their design and functionality. Fan regulators play a crucial role in controlling the
speed of ceiling fans, impacting energy efficiency and user comfort. Using CAD software
CATIA, we develop a parametric model that integrates various design elements, including
the housing, control interface, and mounting features. The model underwent iterative testing
and refinement, leading to improvements in usability and reliability. The findings highlight
the importance of integrating design principles with user-centered functionality in electrical
appliance development.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE NO

ABSTRACT iii

LIST OF FIGURES v

LIST OF FLOWCHART v

1 INTRODUCTION 01

1.1 AN OVERVIEW OF CATIAV5 01

2 LITERATURE REVIEW 04

3 METHODOLOGY 05

4 RESULT AND DISCUSSION 11

4.1 FUTURE SCOPE OF THE PROJECT 11

CONCLUSION 11

REFERENCES 12

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 LIST OF FIGURES AND FLOWCHART

S. NO LIST OF FIGURES PAGE NO

3.2.1 SELECTION OF PLANE 06

3.2.2 2D MODELLING 06

3.2.3 2D MODELLING OF REQUIRED SHAPE 07

3.2.4 FILLING OF SHAPE 07

3.2.5 EXTRUDING 08

3.2.6 SELECTION OF APPROPRIATE PLANE 08

3.2.7 EXTRUDING CIRCLE 09

3.2.8 FILLING CIRCLE 09

3.2.9 DIFFERENT VIEWS OF THE FAN REGULATOR 10

3.2.10
OVERALL VIEW OF FAN REGULATOR 10

S. NO LIST OF FLOWCHART PAGE NO

3.1.1 STEPS FOR SURFACE MODELLING OF FAN 05

REGULATOR

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 1. INTRODUCTION

Surface modeling teaches students how to create models of engineering objects and
assemblies using the 3D EXPERIENCE - CATIA software. This software is widely
used in various interdisciplinary engineering fields for modeling and is the primary
tool used in this course. Through the course, students gain a comprehensive
understanding of the software's capabilities and learn how to use it to complete
various modeling tasks. By the end of the course, students are equipped with the
knowledge and skills needed to create high-quality engineering models and assemblies
using 3D EXPERIENCE - CATIA, making them well-prepared for a career in the
mechanical engineering industry.

3D EXPERIENCE -CATIA is designed to help engineering companies achieve

engineering excellence. The software boasts a powerful set of social and collaborative
3D modelling and simulation tools that enable users to work together on design
projects and improve their overall engineering capabilities. With CATIA, engineering
companies can streamline their design processes and reduce the time and resources
required to bring their products to market. Whether it's creating 3D models or running
simulations, CATIA's suite of tools provides the necessary support for engineering
teams to achieve their goals.

1.1 AN OVERVIEW OF CATIA V5

1.1.1 An end-to-end process for mechanical & shape design

This software offer users unlimited possibilities to create anything they want. Its
geometrical model is specifically designed to support the completion of highly
complex mechanical products and parts with great accuracy, from concept to
detailing. The software provides a comprehensive set of tools, including high-quality
surface and part design, assembly creation, mechanism motion, 3D mock-up review,
and drawing generation, ensuring that users have all the necessary support to achieve
their design goals. It guarantees users the best geometry accuracy for part and tooling
surfaces, with high level of performance, even when working on very heavy models.

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1.1.2 Real-time collaboration
Effective collaboration is vital for every team, and 3D EXPERIENCE CATIA offers a
powerful database platform that enables colleagues, suppliers, and external partners to
work together more efficiently and seamlessly. This results in shorter cycle times and
fewer late changes, which can help streamline the design process. With 3D
EXPERIENCE CATIA, users can access and share the latest version of their data,
allowing different stakeholders to work in parallel on the same project and save their
modifications simultaneously. If necessary, different stakeholders can have different
access rights to the data, depending on their role. For example, reviewers or providers
can see only the parts they need for their work and not the overall product, and they
can have different levels of access rights, such as read or modify. Managing all access
rights is easy with the platform, and adding external team members later is also
straightforward thanks to the platform's simple user and license management system.
Overall, 3D EXPERIENCE CATIA offers an efficient and collaborative environment
for teams to work together and achieve their design goals.

1.1.3 Need for surface modelling in CATIA

It offers a great user experience with its intuitive user interface and simple design
tasks. Users can make selections in 3D and receive user guidance, making the
software easy to use for both casual and expert users. The software also has advanced
modeling capabilities and provides fast and high-quality display, enabling users to
work with ease and efficiency. In addition, 3D EXPERIENCE CATIA is very quick to
learn and master for existing CATIA V5 users, making the transition process
smoother. Users of all types can benefit from the software, with casual users finding it
easy to use, expert users being very productive, and existing CATIA V5 users
experiencing higher productivity in solid and surface modeling. The software also
offers optional easy customization for further convenience.

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1.1.4 3D modelling capabilities
CATIA V5's 3D modeling capabilities are a cornerstone of its functionality, essential
for various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial design. It employs
parametric modeling, allowing users to define dimensions and constraints that
automatically update the model when changes are made, ensuring design intent is
maintained. The software features robust 2D sketching tools that form the basis for
creating intricate 3D shapes, while advanced surface modeling capabilities enable the
design of complex geometries critical for aesthetics and aerodynamics. Assembly
modeling tools facilitate the creation of hierarchical structures with constraints,
ensuring components fit together correctly. Additionally, CATIA V5 supports design
for manufacturing, allowing users to simulate processes to optimize designs.
Customization options and automation features enhance efficiency, while integration
with PLM systems promotes collaboration and version control among teams. Realistic
rendering and virtual prototyping further enhance the design process, making CATIA
V5 a vital tool for professionals seeking to innovate and streamline their workflows.

1.1.5 Customization and Automation

Customization and automation in CATIA V5 are essential features that significantly
enhance productivity and tailor the software to user needs. Users can modify the
interface, rearranging toolbars and creating custom menus for easier access to
frequently used tools. Custom macros, developed using VBScript or other
programming languages, automate repetitive tasks like batch processing and geometry
generation, saving valuable time. Design templates ensure consistency across projects
by providing predefined parameters and standard features. Additionally, users can
create custom libraries for quick access to frequently used components and materials.
Automation capabilities extend to scripting, allowing users to manipulate geometry
and conduct analyses without manual intervention. Processes can be automated to
streamline workflows, such as design validation and exporting models, while batch
processing enables operations on multiple files simultaneously.

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 2. LITERATURE REVIEW

1) Kiriella et al. (2023), Karunadasa et al. (2023) and Rodrigo et al (2023) examined
the design and implementation of an electronic fan regulator for reduced harmonics
and ripple free speed. It reviews different forms of power electronic based control
applicable to single phase induction motors, identifies suitable for ceiling fans, based
on the simplicity and cost effectiveness. It resulted in the selection of final topology in
which the controller is equipped with microcontroller.

2) Victory Madueme et al. (2017) , Josephine Mbunwe et al. (2017) , Udoch ukwu
Akuru et al. (2017) , Boniface Anyaka et al. (2017) studied the design topology of
sustainable remote-controlled fan regulator for developing countries. The basic steps
in the design and construction of remote controlled fan regulator were presented. It
recommended that there should be a reduction of the size and weight of the setup for
greater marketability.

3) Abubakar Samaila Yahaya et al. (2021), Shehu et al. (2021) examined the design
and Construction of a Remote Controlled Fan-Speed Regulator. It was designed to
improve the regulation of the speed of fan using a remote control device. It develops
system that is cost effective. It was found that to meet the expected result which is to
control the speed of fan with remote device from 2m to 7m.

4) Ghionea Ionuţ Gabriel et al. (2024), Devedzic Goran cukovic Sasa et al. (2014),
studied the parametric modeling of surfaces using CATIA v5 environment. It presents
some theoretical aspects regarding the design process of products including their
surfaces characteristics. It was analyzed that generative shape design includes tools for
creating surfaces from scratch, building complex shapes, editing and validating them.

5) Alukkal Reghu Arun (2020) et al. studied the conceptual design of modular fan
regulator using CATIA v5. It aims to integrate fan's power switch and regulator into a
compact module with some appealing design. Also analyzed since it is a parametric
model if there is a need to change dimension, it can be done without redoing the entire
design procedure by just changing the parameter values.

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 3. METHODOLOGY

3.1 SURFACE MODELLING PROCESS OF FAN REGULATOR

Start

Shape – Generative shape design

Plane selection

2D Drawing of shape

Applying fill option

Extruding to form 3D

Selection of appropriate plane

Circle - Extrude

Fill circle

End

Flow chart 3.1.1 Steps for surface modeling fan regulator

Thus the Flow chart 3.1.1 visually represents the step by step process for the surface
modeling of the fan regulator. Each step is clearly outlined, from defining the plane
selection to finalizing the model. This structured approach helps streamline the
design process.
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3.2 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SURFACE MODELLING OF
FAN REGULATOR

Figure 3.2.1 Selection of plane

Thus the Figure 3.2.1 shows the selection of appropriate plane for initializing the
drawing sketches for the fan regulator. For this open the catia software. Go to shapes
and then to the generative shape design. Choose the side plane to proceed with the
drawings of required dimensions.

Figure 3.2.2 2D Modelling

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The Figure 3.2.2 shows the 2D modeling of the required shape as per the dimension.
Here the centered rectangle is selected with length= 150 mm and width= 80 mm. Then
line with 5o is made and the remaining unwanted lines are trimmed and required lines
is again replicated using the mirror option.

Figure 3.2.3 2D modelling of required shape

The Figure 3.2.3 shows that the reference lines are drawn to join and get the required
geometric shapes as above. To achieve the above shape the vertical line has been
drawn 60 mm away from the center axis line. Another lines are drawn 50 mm and 65
mm above from the bottom most line.

Figure 3.2.4 Filling of shape

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The Figure 3.2.4 shows that the fill option has been used to create the closed
boundary. The sketch has been transformed as above depicted in the image. This
feature allows for the transformation of the sketch into a solid shape, enhancing the
model's visual and structural integrity.

Figure 3.2.5 Extruding

Thus the Figure 3.2.5 shows that the option of Extrude has been used to convert 2D
into 3D and it has been extruded for 100 mm. This technique effectively adds volume
to the initial design, transforming flat shapes into three-dimensional forms. This step
is crucial for creating a tangible representation of the design concept.

Figure 3.2.6 Selection of appropriate plane

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The Figure 3.2.6 illustrates the selection of the appropriate plane for creating
additional sketches. In this instance, a circle with a radius of 20 mm has been drawn
on the selected plane. This circle serves as a foundational element for further design
features, allowing for precise modifications &enhancements in the modeling process.

Figure 3.2.7 Extruding circle

The Figure 3.2.7 shows that the circle has been extruded as per the required dimension
which is suitable. Here it is extruded for 25 mm. This technique effectively adds
volume to the initial design, transforming flat shapes into three-dimensional forms.
This step is crucial for creating a tangible representation of the design concept.

Figure 3.2.8 Filling circle

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Thus the Figure 3.2.8 shows that the fill option has been used to convert the circle into
the closed boundary as shown above. This feature allows for the transformation of the
sketch into a solid shape, enhancing the model's visual and structural integrity. By
utilizing the fill option, the boundaries are defined clearly, facilitating further
modifications and detailing.

Figure 3.2.9 Different views of fan regulator

The Figure 3.2.9 shows the different view of the surface modelling of fan regulator.
The diagram can be rotated and oriented in different direction as per the requirement.
This flexibility in visualization allows designers to assess the aesthetics and
functionality more effectively. Thus the Figure 3.2.10 shows the overall view of the
surface modelling of the fan regulator.

Figure 3.2.10 Overall view of the surface modeling of the fan regulator.
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 4. RESULT AND DISCUSSION

The surface model of the fan regulator was successfully developed using CAD
software – CATIA. Key dimensions and features were meticulously designed. The
results also underscore the importance of integrating advanced surface modeling
techniques in the design of fan regulators.

This modeling is critical for manufacturers looking to produce reliable and long-
lasting products. These findings suggest that such modeling approaches could be
widely adopted in the design processes of various electrical appliances, leading to
enhanced performance and user satisfaction.

4.1 FUTURE SCOPE OF THE PROJECT

There is a future scope to develop models that incorporate IoT technology for real-
time monitoring and control via mobile applications. Also exploring the use of eco-
friendly materials in the modeling process to promote sustainability and reduce the
environmental impact of manufacturing fan regulators. Customizable surface designs
that cater to user preferences and home aesthetics, potentially integrating features like
customizable LED indicators or interchangeable faceplates.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the application of surface modeling in the design of fan regulators has
demonstrated significant benefits across multiple dimensions—thermal management,
user experience, and structural integrity. Future research should focus on exploring
various materials and sustainable design practices to further enhance the functionality
and environmental impact of fan regulators, ensuring they remain competitive in an
evolving market. Also there is a lot more scope in the future.

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 REFERENCES

1) Kiriella, Karunadasa and Rodrigo 2023, ‘Design and implementation of an

electronic fan regulator for reduced harmonics and ripple free speed.’ Journal of
institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka, vol. 56, pp. 13-22

2) Victory Madueme, Josephine Mbunwe, Udoch ukwu Akuru, Boniface Anyaka,

2017, ‘Design topology of sustainable remote controlled fan regulator for developing
countries’. Renewable and sustainable energy reviews, vol.71, pp. 639-644.

3) Abubakar Samaila Yahaya, Shehu 2021, ‘ Design and construction of a remote

controlled fan speed regulator’. International Journal of Advances in Engineering and
Management (IJAEM) Vol. 3, pp: 817-822.

4) Ghionea Ionuţ Gabriel., Devedzic Goran cukovic Sasa 2014, ‘The parametric
modeling of surfaces using CATIA v5 environment’. Applied mechanics and
materials.

5) Alukkal Reghu Arun 2020, ‘Conceptual design of modular fan regulator using
CATIA v5’.

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