Objective:

Learn how to create a TPMS by using math equations. This example creates a Schwarz TPMS

Applies to:

• TPMS
• Math

Procedure:

1. Build the equation using math blocks

The equation for the Schwarz TPMS is cos(x)+cos(y)+cos(z). Equations in nTop are built out by individual blocks. Some equations can quickly become complicated. Due to this, we recommend turning these workflows into Custom Blocks, so you only have to build it once. It is also useful to name each block as the function it is representing.

• • Add 3 Cos blocks 
  • In the first Cos block, write in 'X/1 mm'. This gets rid of the units associated with X and allows it to work with Cos.

• • Repeat this for the remaining Cos blocks using Y and Z instead of X.
  • Add an Add block
    • Insert Cos(X) and Cos(Y) into the Add block

• • Add another Add block
    • Insert the Add block with Cos(X) + Cos(Y)
    • Insert Cos(Z)

View the results of your equation. If you just see black, zoom out or use 'Z' to zoom to the object. The TPMS should be quite large.

2. Give your TPMS units

In order to use the TPMS in other operations, it needs units. Add units by multiplying the field by 1 mm.

• • Add a Multiply block
    • Insert the equation from Step 1 into Operand A
    • In Operand B, write 1 mm

3. Trim your TPMS down to size

Use the Boolean Intersect block to edit the size of the TPMS

• • Add a Boolean Intersect block
    • Insert the Multiply block from Step 2.
    • Insert a body that you want to intersect the TPMS with. In this example, we use a small Cube.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully created a TPMS using math blocks. 

Are you still having issues? Contact the support team, and we’ll be happy to help!

Download the Example file:

• Example file

More on this topic:

• Tips on creating equations from math blocks
• What equations are used to create the TPMS types?
• How to create a quadratic ramp