Help Extruding Surf along Curve

[robinsoncr]

Hi Everyone,

I need to make some molding that flows along a radiused window. I have created the molding profile but when I try to extrude the surface along the curve, it squashes the profile as it approaches the apex of the curve.

I want the molding profile to flow along the curve. I'm sure this is simple, but I can't seem to find the right command to do this. I've attached the file if anyone wants to give me a hand!

Thanks,
Chris

[ikke]

The easiest way to do it is using "Surface - Sweep 1 Rail".
In your case the 'Rail' curve is an arc, so you can also use "Surface - Revolve". This will result in a less complex surface.

[robinsoncr]

I tried surface sweep 1 rail and couldn't get any result.

I tried surface-revolve and didn't work at all. It tried to revolve in 360degrees.

Am I doing something wrong?

Thanks,
Chris

[ikke]

Look in help, the animations explain how it's done. It is quite easy.
You have to sweep/revolve curves (not surfaces) to get the surface...

[turmite]

Hi Chris,

I worked on the file some and have included both a version 3 and version 4 since I didn't know which you created the drawing on.

I also rebuilt the profile as closely as I coud and keep everything pretty symetrical.

Are you intending to machine this molding? Does it match an existing molding that you are trying to replicate?

Anyway here are the files. If I can be of further service let me know.

Mike

[robinsoncr]

Turmite,

I've gotta do more research on how to do this. The file you sent looks like what I'm shooting for.

A customer called to ask if I could machine the radius molding for the radiused windows that match existing molding on the job. So, I wanted to to a rough representation of the molding to see what work will have to be done to price the job.

I'll run it through Madcam and see what happens!

Thanks,
Chris

[turmite]

Hi Chris,

Rhino and Madcam is what I use as well.

If you are going to machine this on the router you need to re-design the profile so you can do the cuts with as few passes as possible and with as few cutters as possible. All the corners were radiused with a .055" fillet and if I were doing this I would make it so I could use standard dimensioned cutters without having a custom grind done.

If I can be of further help let me know. BTW have you upgraded to Madcam 4 yet? If not contact me. I am about to become the US rep for them.

Mike