Expression option for scaling a sweep and modulating scale on a sweep

[Anonymous]

Hi, I'm pretty new to AutoCAD, and I was wondering if anyone knows how to use the Expression option for Scale when using the SWEEP command. I'm not sure if it uses LISP expressions or mathematic expressions like cos(x).

I've already tried basic arithmetic like (+ 5 2) and obviously got a scale factor of 7. I'm wondering if there is a way to get a modulating scale for one sweep, such as the scale factor starting off as 1, then going to 2, 4, .5, and so on. Almost as if it were following the graph of an equation. What I have in mind if something like the structure of this vase:

And yes, I realize this can be creating by lofting several profiles. I'm just wondering if it can also be made by sweeping, or if the Expression option for scaling a sweep has some different use.

I hope I communicated everything correctly, and I will greatly appreciate any help you guys have! Thanks!

[Ranjit_Singh]

From AutoCAD help

Scale

Specifies a scale factor for a sweep operation. The scale factor is uniformly applied to the objects that are swept from the start to the end of the sweep path.

I am imagining you want to run the cross-section of the vase along it's centerline, with varying scale. Doesn't seem like this will work. I maybe wrong though. Alternative would be to use the base of the vase as the path and sweep the vertical section (sort of an S) along the bottom. You will miss out the edges. Alternative would be to use loft

[Anonymous]

@Ranjit_Singh I see what you mean, and sweeping like that hadn't occurred to me, so thank you sir! Do you know of any way I could find out what the expressions option does?

[Ranjit_Singh · Accepted solution]

Irrespective of the expression allowed, the expression will evaluate to a number and scaling will be applied uniformly (linearly varying from 1 to the evaluated number). You will not be able to achieve varying scales.

You can use any operators as allowed by the CAL command. See AutoCAD help.