PATH CONSTRAINTS

[PatrickMacMahon]

Is there a way to constrain an object in an assembly so it is able to exactly follow a non-linear or non-radial path such a spline as shown below and contained in the Assembly files attached ?

Thanks

[Scott_Parker]

Some might be able to propose a better way.  But one way would be.

1. Extrude the path to create a surface in Path Spline IPT 01.  Doesn't matter the distance.
2. Create an offset surface 100 mm from the surface created in step 1.
3. In the assembly create a tangent constraint between the body in Ball_Mid:1 and the surface created in step 2.
4. Create a mate constraint between the center of the sphere and the XZ plane of the path part.

Scott

[JDMather]

There are several different techniques to do this depending on the Design Intent.

This video (and Attached files) demonstrates one technique.

(This could also be done with a continous loop 2D or 3D path.

[johnsonshiue · Accepted solution]

Hi Patrick,

On top of what Scott and JD mentioned, you can also use Transitional constraint. You will need to extrude the curve as a surface. Then create the Transitional constraint between the surface (transitional face) and the object (moving face) moving along the path.

Many thanks!

[PatrickMacMahon]

Thanks. This is the solution I have been using and was hoping that there
might be a more direct method. Thanks all.