Curved top on an elliptical solid

[whg2n]

I'm trying to create a curved cap (see arrows in figure) on pillar with an elliptical rather than a round profile, as in these hand drawn projections.  If this pillar were round, a simple revolution would make the entire thing. How does one create such a feature when the major and minor axes are not equal?

[sam_m · Accepted solution]

Welcome to the forum!

There are a few ways to skin this cat, but the easiest is probably "loft to a point".

Create a work point at the crest of the dome

loft from the eliptical end to the work point

go into the 2nd tab on the loft dialog (marked "conditions") and make the point tangential or smooth (and play with the weight setting to adjust the shape of the dome)

If it's confusing then post the file of what you have so far (and state which Inventor release you're on)

I hope that helps

[JDMather]

Another easy way besides Loft is with a Boundary Patch.

Attach your file here and someone will post examples of each technique.

[IgorMir]

Based on the picture and description you have provided I can offer that solution. Please see the attached.

Regards,

Igor.

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@whg2n wrote:

I'm trying to create a curved cap (see arrows in figure) on pillar with an elliptical rather than a round profile, as in these hand drawn projections.  If this pillar were round, a simple revolution would make the entire thing. How does one create such a feature when the major and minor axes are not equal?

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[whg2n]

Thanks, Igor, but that approach only works if the desired height of the cap is the same as the minor axis of the base. "Loft to point," the first solution offered, is much more general.

[IgorMir]

Yes, it is.

Cheers,

Igor.

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@whg2n wrote:
Thanks, Igor, but that approach only works if the desired height of the cap is the same as the minor axis of the base. "Loft to point," the first solution offered, is much more general.

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