Creating 3D Helixes

To create 3D helixes:

  1. Do one of the following:
    • On the ribbon, click Home > Draw > Helix.
    • On the menu, click Draw > Helix.
    • Type Helix.
  2. In the graphics area, specify the base center point (P1) to define the helix position.
  3. Do one of the following:
    • Specify a point (P2) to define the base radius. This point defines the helix start point.

    • Or follow these steps:
      1. Type a value to define the base radius.
      2. Specify the start angle.
    • Set the Diameter:
      1. Specify the base diameter.
      2. Specify the start point or type the start angle value.
  4. Specify the top radius (P3) or specify the Diameter option and the top diameter.

    The default value of the top radius (or diameter) is always the value of the base radius or diameter. Use the default value of the top radius or diameter to create a cylindrical 3D helix.

  5. Specify the height of the helix (P4). Set the following options as needed.

    • Axis endpoint. The end point defines the length of the axis and orientation of the helix.

      You can specify the axis endpoint anywhere in the 3D environment. Use this option to sketch the helix at an angle.

    • Direction. Sets the direction in which the helix is twisted.
    • Pitch. Sets the distance between two revolutions of the helix.
    • Revolutions. Sets the number of revolutions.
  6. Press Enter.

You can modify a helix using EntityGrips or the Properties palette.