Path along tube?

[jflegert]

So I have a tube, and I would like to make a slot that goes up 1/2 inch, does a 360 around the tube ending 1/2 inch from the other end, and continue the slot straight up.  I think I can use a path to cut the slot, but I don't know how to curve the path around the tube.  So, How can I curve a line/path around a surface?  Attached is the tube.

Thank you for the help.

[davebYYPCU]

For the coil Path, use a one turn Sweep, (with twist) in the surface area.

extend the ends with Extrude.

Might help....

[TheCADWhisperer]

@t_lamourine 

Click the Report and request that the moderator delete the reply. 

[jhackney1972 · Accepted solution]

You did not mention the width of the slot.  Here is your tube with a 1/8" slot.  If you need further help, please let me know.  The only tricky part is the manipulation of the timeline during the process that I used.  I am sure that there are others.  Model is attached.

[jflegert]

Edit: This is in reply to jhackney72. sorry, I'm still learning the forum tools.

Thank you for help.

I believe I can work with this.  I'm trying to change some of the parameters, and I need to think about it (the sweep "distance" has no units, which threw me at first).

[jhackney1972]

If my Forum post solved your question, please select the "Accept Solution" icon to do three things. First it allows others to find a solution to a similar question, two, it closes the Forum post and last, it acknowledges that you accept the solution given. If you need further help, please ask.

[jflegert]

I was thinking about it a little more, and attached is an alternative solution.  I had a little trouble thinking about how I would parameterize the other solution.  The attached probably isn't 100% correct (getting rid of the spur on the bottom was funky).  I also added some fillets to pretty it up.

Again, thank you for the other solution; I learned some new tools and a different way to think about things: some new tools for the toolbox.

[jhackney1972]

You method is great but do note that the slot, being cut varies in its relationship to the tube surface.  The one I supplies creates a groove that would be used by a cam follower.  Yours creates a perpendicular cut to the tube surface.  It depends on what you need and want.  If is decorative, then yours works great, if it is functional, mine would be a better choice.  Section Cuts of each below.