FUNCTIONAL VEHICLE BRAKING MECHANISM IN 3D
Car Braking System – Complete 3D Mechanical Build
COMPANY
Automotive Engineer
ROLE
Mechanical CAD Designer & Animator
EXPERTISE
SolidWorks 3D Modeling | Assembly | Motion Animation | Rendering
YEAR
2025
Project description
This project involved building a fully functional car braking system in 3D using SolidWorks. It included the modeling of each component, assembly with proper mates, motion animation of braking behavior (including springs), and high-quality rendering as a bonus delivery.
Timeline:
Completed from rough sketch to final rendered animation in 3 weeks while handling other ongoing mechanical projects.
Background:
The goal was to replicate a realistic braking system mechanism for automotive visualization and mechanical demonstration. The client wanted a model that could show spring compression, disc rotation, and component movement during braking in a clean, animated way.
Process
A structured approach including mechanical analysis, CAD design, simulation planning, animation execution, and realistic visualization.
Research & Planning
Analyzed real braking systems (disc, caliper, piston, pad, spring) to define proportions and motion behavior. Defined component interactions and chose animation points.
Modeling & Assembly
Modeled every part individually in SolidWorks, ensuring engineering-grade precision. Components included shaft, caliper, brake pads, pistons, bolts, and spring systems. Assembled with advanced mates and movement allowances.
Animation & Simulation
Used SolidWorks Motion Study to simulate braking movement. The spring compression and pad-disc interaction were highlighted in a smooth, timed animation that demonstrated real-world functionality.
Rendering & Final Delivery
Rendered the entire braking system using PhotoView 360, showing multiple angles and lighting to bring out details in metal textures, shadows, and part hierarchy. Included as an extra delivery.
Solution
Delivered a full mechanical braking model capable of both static presentation and dynamic visualization for training, engineering, and showcase purposes.
Complete Mechanical System
Accurate, detailed braking assembly built from scratch.
Realistic Motion Simulation
Animated with spring compression and pad movement to simulate real braking.
Photorealistic Rendering
Enhanced with metal textures, lighting, and composition using PhotoView 360.
Results
Client Satisfaction
Praised for the high level of realism, educational value, and visual quality.
Animation-Ready Model
Used for both demonstration and teaching purposes, including in client presentations.
User engagement
Viewers of the braking system animation reported improved understanding of component interaction, increasing average session duration on the portfolio page by 30%.
Conversion rates
The high-quality visuals and dynamic motion study led to a 20% increase in inquiries from automotive clients seeking technical 3D modeling.
Growing User Base
The project gained attention across engineering forums and freelance platforms, contributing to a broader client base interested in mechanical animation and SolidWorks design.