Curve Overview

You can create several types of 3D curves by using these methods:

• Projected Curve - from a sketch projected to a model face or surface, or from sketched lines on intersecting planes

• Composite Curve - from a combination of curves, sketch geometry, and model edges

• Helix and Spiral - by specifying a circular sketch, pitch, number of revolutions, and height

• Split Line - from a sketch projected to planar or curved (silhouette) faces

• Curve Through Reference Points - from user-defined points or existing vertices

• Curve Through XYZ Points - from a list of X,Y, Z coordinates for points

You can then use the curves to create solid model features. For example, you can use a curve as the path or guide curve for a sweep feature, as the guide curve for a loft feature, as a parting line for a draft feature, and so on.

You can turn the display of curves on or off.

To toggle the display of curves:

Click View, Curves. A depressed icon next to the menu item means curves are visible (except for curves you have hidden individually).

To hide or show individual curves:

1. Right-click the curve in the graphics area or in the FeatureManager design tree.

2. Select Hide or Show.

Individual curves always are highlighted when you select them, even when hidden.