The Extract Curve tool creates a curve from points selected on an existing object. The resulting curve is then used to create a new element using the Sweep tool, the Extrusion tool, or any other surface-generating tool. |
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On a NURBS surface, the Lasso selection tool will extract a NURBS curve or surface. The Bullseye selection tool will only generate a polyline curve.
There are three ways to select the points:
¨ Manual extraction of the 3D curve (with the Bullseye or the Lasso).
¨ Automatic contour lines extraction.
q Manual extraction of a 3D curve (with the Bullseye or the Lasso)
Use the Bullseye or the Lasso to select existing points. A new curve going through those points will be generated.
Of course you need to select points that can define a curve or the tool will have no effect. Do not select a whole sphere, for instance.
The main difference between extracting curves using the Bullseye or the Lasso is the following:
¨ Using the Bullseye (single point selection): Points can be selected on any object of the scene (current or not).
¨ Using the Lasso: Points can only be selected on the current object.
1. If you want to use the Lasso and there are several elements in the scene, be sure that the correct object is selected.
2. Selecting the Extract Curve tool.
Click on the corresponding icon in the Tools Palette.
The Lasso cursor is automatically selected.
3. Selecting the points defining the 3D curve.
Using the Lasso: Surround the group of points of interest. Then go to step 4.
Or
Using the Bullseye: You can access the selection tool two ways:
1st method: Using the Assistant Palette
Click on the corresponding icon.
2nd method: Using the mouse
Þ On PC: Click the right mouse button.
Or
Þ On Mac: Press the Option key and simultaneously click the mouse button.
The Bullseye replaces the Lasso.
Click on the points you wish to select. A curve is created as you select points.
4. Ending a curve.
Press the Return key to validate the curve creation.
5. Repeat from step 3 for each separate curve that you want.
6. Ending the tool action.
Validate or put the tool aside to end the tool action (depending on the interface). See chapter User Manual/Tools/Generic use of a tool/How do you end a tool action?
q Automatic extraction of contour lines
Simply press the Return key. This will extract the contour lines of the openings of the object (for instance the top and bottom edges of an open cylinder).
1. Have objects present in the scene.
As this method extracts only contour lines of openings, it will only applies to open objects (i.e., it will have no effect on a sphere or a cube).
2. Selecting the Curve Extract tool.
Click on the icon depicting the tool in the Tools Palette.
The Lasso selection tool is displayed.
3. Extracting the curves.
Press the Return key.
One or several curves defining the edges of the openings of the object are created. The Lasso stays active.
4. Extract other curves on the current element with the Lasso if necessary.
5. Ending the tool action.
Validate or put the tool aside to end the tool action (depending on the interface). See chapter User Manual/Tools/Generic use of a tool/How do you end a tool action?
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Practical exercises:
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