Creating Helix-Spirals

The Create Helix-Spiral command creates a helix-shaped or spiral-shaped 3D object from one or more path objects. The paths can be 2D objects or NURBS curves.

To create a helix or spiral:

1. Select the object to use as the path.

2. Select Model > 3D Power Pack > Create Helix-Spiral.

The Helix-Spiral Creation dialog box opens.

Click to show/hide the parameters.

Parameter	Description
Use Turns	Select to create a helix/spiral by a specified number of turns along the path
Turns	Enter the total number of turns to be created along the path
Use Pitch	Select to create a helix/spiral by pitch
Pitch	Enter the pitch value (the distance between successive turns)
Start Radius	Enter the radius of the perpendicular starting circle
End Radius	Enter the radius of the perpendicular ending circle. To create a helix, enter a value matching the start radius. To create a spiral, enter a different value.
Start Angle	Enter the starting point of the twist on the starting circle
Reverse Direction	Select to change the rotation direction of the helix/spiral from clockwise to counter-clockwise or vice versa
Flatten	Select to flatten the helix/spiral into a 2D spiral. Use Pitch is not available with this option.

3. Specify the object parameters, and click OK.

A helix or spiral is created.

A helix or spiral object can be used, without further conversion, as a path object for the Extrude Along Path command.

Ungrouping a helix-spiral object results in a NURBS curve.

Click here for a video tip about this topic (Internet access required).

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