The segmented bowl calculator is a valuable tool for anyone interested in creating beautiful segmented wood bowls. Whether you are an experienced woodturner or just starting out, this calculator can help you ensure that your bowls are the perfect size and have the correct proportions. In this article, we will dive into how the calculator works, what information you need to input, and how to use the results to create your segmented bowl.
What is a Segmented Bowl?
A segmented bowl is made by gluing together several wooden segments to form a ring, which is then assembled into a rough shape of a bowl. This process creates a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing container that can be used for various purposes, from serving coffee to holding candy.
How to Use the Segmented Bowl Calculator
To use the segmented bowl calculator, follow these simple steps:
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Determine the Number of Segments: Enter the desired number of segments for each bowl ring. The calculator will only accept at least three segments. More segments may be necessary for complex shapes.
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Enter Target Bowl Parameters: Input the target bowl's outer radius and bowl or ring thickness. You may also enter your desired bowl's inner ring radius. If you prefer to enter the outer and inner diameters of the bowl you want to make, check the "Display other parameters" checkbox.
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Add Allowances: If you are new to turning segmented wood bowls or concerned about depth, you can add allowances to your segment's thickness. This will help prevent over-carving on your wood segments.
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Compute Dimensions: The calculator will display the dimensions of your wood segments, including the length of both the inner and outer sides, their required thickness, and the cutting angle you'll need to set your protractor or miter saw at.
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Refine Segment Dimensions: If your bowl changes in diameter throughout its structure, you may need to recalculate the dimensions using the inner and outer diameters of the target bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Formula for Segmented Wood Bowls?
The formula for segmented wood bowls is as follows:
- Cutting angle, ( \alpha ), is equal to ( \frac{180^\circ}{n} ), where ( n ) is the number of segments.
*Segment's outer length, ( L_\text{o} ), is calculated using the formula: ( L_\text{o} = 2 \times \tan \left( \frac{180^\circ}{n} \right) \times (R_\text{o} + a_\text{o}) ), where ( R_\text{o} ) is the outer radius of the desired bowl and ( a_\text{o} ) is the outer allowance.
*Segment's inner length, ( L_\text{i} ), is calculated using the formula: ( L_\text{i} = 2 \times \sin \left( \frac{180^\circ}{n} \right) \times (R_\text{i} – a_\text{i}) ), where ( R_\text{i} ) is the inner radius of the desired bowl and ( a_\text{i} ) is the inner allowance.
*Segment thickness, ( T_\text{s} ), is calculated using the formula: ( T_\text{s} = (R_\text{o} + a_\text{o}) – \cos \left( \frac{180^\circ}{n} \right) \times (R_i – a_i) ), where ( R_i ) is the inner radius and ( R_o ) is the outer radius of the finished bowl, ( a_o ) is the outer fudge factor, and ( a_i ) is the inner fudge factor.
How to Find the Bowl Segment Thickness?
To find the bowl segment thickness to make a segmented wood bowl with a finished outer diameter of 10 inches (or outer radius of 5 inches) and a bowl thickness of 0.5 inches using 8 segments:
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Divide 180° by 8 segments to get: ( 22.5^\circ ).
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Take the inner radius of your finished bowl to be: ( 5 ) inches − ( 0.5 ) inches = ( 4.5 ) inches.
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Use the following equation to find the minimum segment thickness we need as follows: ( thickness = outer radius − \cos(\alpha) \times inner radius ), where ( \alpha = 22.5^\circ ):
( thickness = 5 ) inches − (\cos(22.5^\circ) \times 4.5 ) inches = 0.843 inches.
What is the Common Bowl Diameter?
Dining bowls typically measure around 9-10 inches in diameter. However, bowls can also be as small as 6 inches in diameter up to as large as 13 inches in diameter or larger for serving bowls. The size of the bowl depends on the intended use and the size of the segments used to create the bowl.
##The segmented bowl calculator is a versatile resource that can assist you in creating precise and attractive segmented wood bowls. By following the instructions in this article and using the calculator's guidelines, you can quickly determine the necessary dimensions for your project. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodturner, this tool will undoubtedly enhance your woodworking endeavors and help you create beautiful and functional bowls for years to come.
