For this assignment, you will design and model a loudspeaker consisting of two or more drivers (woofers, midranges, tweeters, etc.) in a single enclosure. You will start by modeling the speaker enclosure as a single thin-walled part, and then use the Split and Save Bodies features to split it into discrete components for each wall and any other (optional) structural elements (internal ribs, etc.). You will then reconstitute these parts into an assembly and add/mate the drivers into predefined cutouts. This is an example of the top-down modeling process.

Note that the overall procedure for this project will be covered in detail in an in-class demo on 4/12. If you missed the demo, it will be important to get notes from one of your classmates. In addition, I've done a quick video tutorial for the enclosure process, although it only briefly covers the main points. Here is the collection of files generated by the in-class demo, which also includes an (optional) internal rib element.

Your speaker might fall into one or more of the following categories:

• Floor-standing home stereo speaker
• Shelf or stand mounted speaker
• Concert/monitor speaker
• Electric guitar amp/speaker
• Car subwoofer
  

Here are the steps you should follow for this project:

• Decide on what driver components you will use, and create models of them. It's not necessary to go into a lot of detail, but these models should roughtly reflect the appearance of the components and have accurate dimensions in terms of the cutout size and mounting depth. There are a number of good reseller websites out there from which you can get product information and photos; I often use Parts Express.
• I suggest referring to the sample driver models that we used for the in-class demo for tips on how to model your drivers. You don't need to go into as much detail as the sample midrange driver model (but it certainly wouldn't hurt if you want the practice).
• If you're having too much trouble modeling the speaker drivers, you may use the sample models.
• Model an enclosure in a new part document. I recommend sticking to mostly flat sides, as complex curvature may make your design hard to split up.
• Be sure to create cutouts that will accommodate your driver selections, both in terms of cutout size/diameter and mounting depth.
• You may also want to accommodate extra elements such as connection terminal plates, handles, bass ports, and grilles, although this is optional (see the Speaker Building section of Parts Express).
• Speaker enclosures benefit from as much rigidity as possible, and larger enclosures often use internal ribs and other support elements. This is optional, but recommended for practice (your split features will become more complex). If you include internal ribs, be sure they won't interfere with the speaker drivers when mounted. See the Rib tutorial for info on the Rib feature.
  
• Use the Split feature followed by Save Bodies to split your master enclosure part into separate part files and a unifying assembly, per the class demo and video tutorial.
• Once you have your enclosure assembly, add your driver part models and put them in place using mates.
• Create a rendering of your completed speaker!

Due: Apr 26 (SolidWorks parts + assembly, rendering)