How to array or pattern of a feature in a conical pattern

[Anonymous]

I want to create a cylindrical part that propagates into a conical spiral so that it spirals down into a cone shape so that there is minimal space between the part and its neighbors.  It's hard to explain but maybe my attempt will demonstrate:

What I did here was create 3 separate cylinders on a plane and circular patterned them each individually with 3 different ul counts (6, 15 & 20ul).

[Cadmanto]

Rob,

So what is your question?  Looks like you already did it.  Or am I missing something.

Windows 10 x64 -16GB Ram
Intel i7-6700 @ 3.41ghz
nVidia GTS 250 - 1 GB
Inventor Pro 2018

[swalton · Accepted solution]

I'd start with a 3d Helical Curve in a part file as a seed for your pattern.  Once you have a curve, then I'd pattern a point along the curve by using the Rectangle Pattern command and selecting the curve as the direction.

Once I had the curve part working, I'd add it to my assembly, and use the point pattern as a seed for a component pattern of the cylinders.  

I'm not sure if you will be able to control the cylinder orientation that way you want.

[Anonymous]

I'm looking for a method that will close the holes more between the cylinders.  The size of the cylinders are all the same but not as yet fixed.  I'm hoping there is a function in inventor that will do it in one step instead of the 6 steps I used.

[Cadmanto]

I know this attached link is for holes, but maybe you can draw from it to create what you are looking for.

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/hole-in-flat-pattern-of-cone/td-p/2129620

Windows 10 x64 -16GB Ram
Intel i7-6700 @ 3.41ghz
nVidia GTS 250 - 1 GB
Inventor Pro 2018

[Anonymous]

Thanks this helps a lot.