Creating a helical curve around a bent object like a hose 1

[Spurs]

I am trying to model a helix around a curved surface - much like a hose that has a helical wound wire around it to provide flexibility to the hose - Vacuum cleaner hoses typically have this.

How can I do this in Solidworks 2003?

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

The following link contains a model of a picture frame which has a bent helix (actually a spline). It is complicated (for me anyway) but you may be able to use the same method.

http://www.scottjbaugh.com/Design_Portfolio/Contributed SW models.htm

CorBlimeyLimey
Barrie, Ontario
faq559-863

 

[Spurs]

Thanks for the link - I can see how it was done in the picture frame.

Just looks like a lot of work - no easy solution there.

If anyone has an easier solution, please let me know.

Thanks

 

[TheTick]

I looked at that picture frame model. Very interesting. It is a solution for this problem that is oh-so-close but not quite there.

Unfortunately, this case does much to show just how far SW needs to go to match capabilities of high-end CAD. That same frame could have been done with one patterned variable-section sweep (an absolutely dynamite feature, one of Pro/E's few redeeming qualities) in Pro/E, and finished in 3 or 4 features.

I'm not trying to bash SW. Mostly I find this problem compelling because it really is a great example of what is juuuust beyond the limits of SW's "mid-range" capability.

Echo this sentiment on SW's lack of spline curvature control and curve-by-equation generation.

"Great ideas need landing gear as well as wings."--C. D. Jackson

http://www.EsoxRepublic.com

 

[krywarick6]

If you go to the SolidWorks website and log into the subscription suppot page and follow this selection path: Support - Download - Model Library - Modeling Techniques - Sweeps. Scroll down to the model submitted by Brian White - Circular Helix.slfprt or zip. This is a good example of what you are looking for. I have used and modified this model to create an arced coil spring such as what is used in a dual mass flywheel for automotive applications.


Christopher Zona
Litens Automotive Partnership
Concord, Ontario, Canada