Offset series of Lines and Curves..?

[mail8YLTP]

I am trying to work out the best way to create a 3D printed spring that is extruded from a flat 2D series of S shapes. I started by creating 5 circles and then a line tangential to each one, then cut the inner curves. The problem started when I tried to select all the lines and offset them to 0.25mm one both sides of the line. I would only allow me to select 2 lines and a curve at a time then finally cap the ends so that I could extrude it. Is there a way of connecting sketch nodes to make one polyline? It was very long winded selecting each section and offsetting on each side if the line. I would assume there must be an easier way? My picture shows my methodology and at the resultant shape. 

[g-andresen]

Hi,

Please share the Basic file

günther

[jeff_strater · Accepted solution]

I think the problem is these white dots in your center set of curves:

Those indicate that the lines and arcs are not connected.  Offset will chain connected curves, but will stop if it does not find a connected curve.  Use the Coincident constraint to connect them.

[mail8YLTP]

Yep thanks for that, I should have known better. I put tangential constraints on each line and that sorted it. 

[laughingcreek]

sometimes it's easier to use simpler sketches.  for instance from this sketch-

you can get this-

most of the work is done in the modeling space.

[mail8YLTP]

That looks interesting, can you attach your file please so I can work it out easier...

[etfrench]

Thin extrude would be easier than using offsets:

This was started with a slot.  Dimensions were added. One arc deleted and one added.  To complete the spring use a rectangular pattern.

[laughingcreek]

---

@mail8YLTP wrote:
That looks interesting, can you attach your file please so I can work it out easier...

---

here you go.  I meant to attach it before.  this was just a first go, I would likely work out something a bit more elegant if I put some thought into it. 

[mail8YLTP]

Thank you...