Constructing 2D Spirals and 3D Helixes

Use the Helix command to construct 2D spirals and 3D helixes.

You can use 2D spirals and 3D helixes as paths to create threads, springs, and spiral stairs. For example, you can sweep a 2D entity along a helix and create threaded bolts.

In addition to 2D spirals, you can create the following types of helixes:
  • Conical 3D helixes
  • Cylindrical 3D helixes

You create 3D helixes around an axis that defines their location and position. You define the axis by specifying two points (the base center point and the top center point), or by specifying the base center point and the height. A helix axis can be vertical or sloped.

You can create 3D helixes by specifying the following:
  • Height.
  • Number of revolutions and height. (The number of revolutions are created within the specified height at equal distances.)
  • Pitch and height. (The number of revolutions is automatically calculated.)
  • Pitch and number of revolutions for the spiral. (The height is automatically calculated.)

You can modify helixes using EntityGrips or the Properties palette.