sweep question

[atama]

I want to make a quite basic open sweep (a circle along an open path), but I want a "tapered" sweep, i.e the end circle smaller than the start one. Is that possible in a sweep? It seems such a basic feature, just like the taper is easy in an extrusion (by draft outward/ inward). Do I have to use guide curves? - that's a drag.

 

[handleman]

I believe you're going to have to go with a loft.

 

[thermoD]

If you want to design a simple cone (both ends are flat) you can use sweep with a guide curve..but if you want to have this cone tapered from the top (see attached), you need to useSweep with one guide curve and another feature to do that cut..However, if you use a loft, you can simply use only loft to come up with this part..

I would recomend to use loft, beacuse in this case it's a better and easy option, you don't have to use guide curve, and it's much easier to control dimensions..

use guide curve only if you want to control the overall profile (usually comlex shapes)..I might send you another pix with a swept feature

 

[thermoD]

in this example, sweep is a better option, becuse you need to create only 3 sketches..if you use loft, you need to create many many sketches..when you use sweep the software makeup these sketches automatically for you (of course logically)

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Try a Loft using the Centreline Parameter option. Obviously a centreline connecting the circle centres will need to be drawn.

 

[thermoD]

It depends on your path, if your path is an open curve or spline, you should use centerline loft for best results..
but if your path is simpler, just use regular loft that would save you a sketch..

for me, if the path is straight line, I'll go with revolve and save a lot of time..
Good Luck

 

[finisher]

atama,

Attached is a variable section sweep (SW06)done with 4 different section sketches, a path and a guide curve.

Guide curves aren't the end of the world!

finisher

 

[atama]

Thanks guys, you helped a lot, the loft using centerline is a good option, so is finisher's advice - thanks for bothering to draw that for me!