Positioning and Projecting Curves

Objective: Learn how to position and project curves for the lateral channel and create mirrored curves for symmetry.

Positioning and Projecting Curves

To begin, go to the Transform tab and use the Quick Orient on Surface command. This will help position the curves correctly on the isocurve we created earlier.

Select the Quick Orient on Surface command.
In the command bar, it will prompt you to select a base geometry—select the shank.
Next, it will ask for the objects to orient—select both curves and press Enter.
Using Osnap, choose a point on the isocurve approximately 1.5 mm away from the central channel.
Setting the Work Plane for Projection

It is important to know which plane you are working on before projecting the curves:

Select one of the positioned curves as a reference.
In the lower toolbar, click on Auto CPlane to change the working plane.
Projecting the Curves

Now, project the curves onto the surface:

Go to the Curve tab.
Select the curves and click the Project command.
In the command bar, it will ask for the surface to project onto—select the shank and press Enter.
Cleaning Up the Curves

Delete the unnecessary curves from the lower part of the shank.
Keep the upper curves: the larger curve on the top and the smaller one on the inner side of the shank.
Deactivate the Auto CPlane option.
Creating a Mirror of the Projected Curves

To create a symmetrical channel on the left side, use the Mirror command:

In the Transform tab, select the projected curves and click the Mirror command.
Set the central axis point by typing 0 in the command bar and pressing Enter to confirm.
In the front view, hold down Shift and click on the top of the model to create the mirror in the correct position.
Next Lesson: Creating the Lateral Channels and Adding Gems