Sweeping solids
Sweeping solids
(OP)
First time poster, long time reader.
I've been struggling with this ability in solid edge since I started working with it. Essentially I can't get what I want with either the helix commands or using surfaces.
What I'm looking to achieve is a surface (cutout) that would represent a helical path cut with the bottom of a bull end mill with a corner radius. The axis of the helix is the Z axis in the mill.
I know these features can be added in CAM software, but I need them in an SE model for a molded part.
Thanks in advance.
I've been struggling with this ability in solid edge since I started working with it. Essentially I can't get what I want with either the helix commands or using surfaces.
What I'm looking to achieve is a surface (cutout) that would represent a helical path cut with the bottom of a bull end mill with a corner radius. The axis of the helix is the Z axis in the mill.
I know these features can be added in CAM software, but I need them in an SE model for a molded part.
Thanks in advance.





RE: Sweeping solids
since I started with SE it was impossible to get a correct
result out of this. In short: SE is not able to sweep
a volume/cut like a CAM program can do.
dy
RE: Sweeping solids
I have a macro that will generate the curves.
I'm willing to let you have a go with it but it's a bit flakey.
bc.
2.4GHz Core2 Quad, 4GB RAM,
Quadro FX4600.
RE: Sweeping solids
In the past I've been able to get around this (sort of) if my tool was a ball nose endmill by using a swept path with center axis constraints. It still falls short though when you want to make what the software considers a self intersecting cut however, at which point I resort to lofting.
RE: Sweeping solids
Call up Gtac and file an enhancement request (there may already be one you can add your name to). This is a valuable tool.
Has anyone tried doing something with assembly features? Model the cutter as a part and do some sort of boleen subtraction? You might have to put the cutter part at each corner of the path.
RE: Sweeping solids
The stopping point could be done with a revolved cut.
FWIW, I used Intergraph EMS over 20 years ago and that could sweep solids - and it was Intergraph that invented Solid Edge!
I can't remember though if it had a helix.
bc.
2.4GHz Core2 Quad, 4GB RAM,
Quadro FX4600.