Sweeping and changing cross-sections.

[PhilipFry]

I'm trying to accurate model the bend of a tube. The cross section of the tube initially starts out as a circle in the straight portions of the tube. It becomes more of an oval in the bend, and has peak ovality at the 45 degree mark in the bend. How should I go about doing this?

 

[Fire1]

This could possibly done using a loft with guides and cross sections just something to think about it may give you more control over the shape you need to model.

 

[Klogg96]

If you are only interested in ovals and circles, sweep a chonic. This combined with a law sould provide the surface you are after. rho value sqrt(2)-1 is the parameter for a circle or ellipse (provided your tangencies are 90° for your given spine.

 

[KooKoo]

May also be able to use a Multi-section solid\surface.

 

[PhilipFry]

"May also be able to use a Multi-section solid\surface."

That's actually what I ended up doing...and it worked pretty well once I got the correct closing points.