line tangent to a 3d curve through a point 1

[longroadtrip]

in NX 10, how do i create a simple straight line that is tangent to a 3d curve and passes through a point that is on the 3d curve. in the line command the automatic plane just assumes you want in parallel to the base planes.

is there a simple way to do this without having to create a load of supporting geometry

Thanks

 

[mmauldin]

I don't know if this qualifies as a "load" of supporting geometry, but you can place a datum axis using the "point and direction" option through the point and parallel to the curve, and then a line though the point and parallel to the datum axis.

 

[Toost]

If you can live with an non-associative line, - Use the "Basic curves- line". It will create that line in two clicks. Without supporting geometry.

 

[IvanNX]

in NX 7.5:
Insert>Curve>Line.
"Start Option" should be Inferred or Point with "Point on Curve" selection option turned on, this will make a point.
"End Poiont or direction" option should be tangent, select curve for tangency. Make sure that in Settings you have Associative turned ON. You can manually add limits (lengths of line on each side of point) or you can drag handles.
I think it is similar in new versions.

 

[Xwheelguy]

I would temporarily move the original 3D curve to an unused layer and create a copy of it on my work layer. I would then Trim the copy to the point on the curve. Next, bring up the Basic Curves dialog and click on the Line command. Click on the point first, then while "rubber banding" the line, click somewhere on the 3D curve that is NOT a Control Point and the Line you're trying to create should snap tangent (or perpendicular, depending upon your drag direction) to the 3D curve. Make sure the new Line is being dragged in the correct direction and click for your new Line endpoint.

I've attached a movie showing the process I've described - in it, you'll see me take an angle measurement to confirm tangency.

These are simple curve functions in NX that more than likely aren't described very well in the NX Help docs - maybe some training is in order so you don't miss out on quick and easy things like this. Please don't take that as an insult, it's simply a suggestion.

[link

http://files.engineering.com/getfil...c4d-e0c36828fe15&file=Basic_Curve_Tangent.zip

]Basic_Curve_Tangent.zip[/url]

Tim Flater
NX Designer
NX 9.0.3.4 Win7 Pro x64 SP1
Intel Xeon 2.53 GHz 6GB RAM
NVIDIA Quadro 4000 2GB