There must be an easier way!

[BanduraMaker]

Hi there,

In order to do some 3D engraving, I'd like to project up to 20 lines on to a 3D surface. The location of these lines will be controlled by a spreadsheet (a linear pattern with varying distances between the lines).

Problem is that the project curve feature will only work with one line. i.e. if I put 2 or more lines onto a single sketch, it poops out and no workey. I'd have to make an independent sketch and then feature for each line I wish to project and I just gotta think that there must be an easier way.

In the attached screenshot, the grey line is the line I projected on to the surface to create the orange engraving path.

Would be nice if I didn't have to make 20 separate sketches!

Any ideas?

[WATERJET71]

when you said you make 2 line are those 2 lines closed?or may be I dont understand your question.

[MikeSherman]

If your projected lines completely "split" the surface from end to end....you can do multiple split lines in a single sketch.

-Mike

[BurrMan]

Can you extrude the 20 lines down through the surface and use intersection curves instead?

[BanduraMaker]

I think that both of those solutions might work.

For the split line, the goal is for these tool paths to stop short of the edge but, I can always do two split operations - 1st to split off the edges of the stock to create three solids and then do the split line on the middle portion.

I'm not too familiar with curve intersection but I'll investigate. When I use that, does the original extrusion disappear?

[BanduraMaker]

I tried the split line method and it does work but, I'm not able to select a single edge of the new surface for engraving. I think I'll probably just have to bite the bullet and make 20 projection curve features.

Edit - I think I now remember what the intersection curve is - that might just do it as if I recall, the original surfaces do disappear when you do it!

I'll try and get back with y'all

[BanduraMaker]

Success (lot's of hand shaking ala 3 stooges)!!!

Intersection curve did the trick!

[BurrMan]

Hahahaaaaa..

Only when you have 4 minutes to spare:



Doctor????? Doctor!