Constraining bodies to sketch points to obtain variable extrude

[dgmshop]

Hello,

I’m not sure of the method or approach to achieve the following scenario. I would like to sketch four circles at equal intervals, side by side, spaced evenly along a common centerline. I intend to have a construction line connecting the “first” circle to the “fourth” circle and “connect” the remaining circle center points to the construction line. I would like to be able to extrude these shapes to varying heights by manipulating the angle of the construction line in a plane perpendicular to the faces of the circles. For example, if the construction line were changed to 3 degrees over 14” for example , the 4th circle extrude would be around .700”, maybe the 3rd circle .500” etc, assuming spacing of 4.3”. These are not precise numbers, just estimates. I would like to be able to manipulate the angle of the construction line in the sketch to achieve variable extrusions of the 4 bodies. (The datum or first circle at 0,0,0 will not move or change, only the 3 “upstream” along the path of the line)

I’m not certain if this would be achieved with constraints based on the construction line being locked to the center point of the 4 sketched circles, or another function in the 3D environment. I also suspect there may be a method involving prametrics. I’m still learning about constraint elements, I’m hoping someone may decipher this description and provide some guidance. I apologize if I’m not clearly describing the function I’m trying to achieve. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this post.

[davebYYPCU · Accepted solution]

I think I have it.  Set up dimensions / parameters to suit.

Initially you need a Pipe / Extrude for each centre line in this method.

change the top line angle the bodies will update.

if not pipes then need a sketch of profiles, at each centre line.

Might help....

[g-andresen · Accepted solution]

Hi,

one more

or is it something like this?

This is even easier to realize

günther

[davebYYPCU]

Why construction Planes, when the end point of the centre line is at the same place?

3 items / timeline icons of duplication.

[g-andresen]

Hi,

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@davebYYPCU wrote:

Why construction Planes, when the end point of the centre line is at the same place?

3 items / timeline icons of duplication.

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Good question!
Force of habit?

günther

[dgmshop]

Thank you very much for the quick reply, this fully solved my issue. Much appreciated!

[dgmshop]

Thank you kindly for taking the time to demonstrate your method, this was very helpful. I feel there is merit to both suggested methods, and I really am glad to have had support for this query. I had success with both suggestions, 

Thanks for your help!