Creating a Rail to keep extrusion of 3D Equation Curve vertical.

[CJ.10E-10mm]

Could someone please advise me how I can create a rail whilst producing a 3D equation curve so that I can keep an extrusion vertical along its entire length?

Is it also possible to physically edit / trim a profile generated by a 3D Equation Curve prior to it being used as a path with which to extrude along?

Your help would be most appreciated.

Thank you.

CJJ

Sample extrusion along a 3D Equation Curve path attached.

[Anonymous]

I've only got 2013 so I can't check your file...
Can't you only 'Extrude' a 2D sketch.
Using 'Sweep' I think you would need to have your rail in a separate sketch.
but
Is your equation curve actually 3d or could you recreate it in a 2d sketch?

[rdyson · Accepted solution]

Like this?

[CJ.10E-10mm]

Thanks CAG_DRAFT,

No this is really a 3D spiral which cannot be replicated in 2D.

I have appended below an image which shows the problem i.e. the profile rotates to keep its alignment with the centre point 0,0,0.

I have struggled to get to grips with 3D Equation Curves and have not been able to find any meaningful tutorial. Most tutorials simply paste or input various equations without explanation as to what each of the input values are designed to achieve.

Anyway, I have also pasted an image of the 3D Inputs I have used; nothing fancy but it does the job; other than it rotates the profile as it follows the path.

You can see in this screen shot that the profile rotates so that the rounded side faces the central neutral point as it traverses the spiral profile. Whereas I need to keep it vertical at all times, hence my need for a second path to maintain alignment.

Thanks fot your help.

CJ

[CJ.10E-10mm]

Dear rDyson,

Once again you have come to my rescue.

Thank you so very much, I can now make progress once more.

Thank you once again.
cj