[req] follow me helix

[solo]

I'm not sure if this already exists, I have looked but not found anything (then again I have not looked that hard)

I'd like to add a spiral around a cable that is pretty free formed, normally I'd create the helix and use shape bender to create the shape but it only works on the red axis and the path I need it to follow is on all three axis.

Anyone know if there is something like this out there?

The above was the original request, and it was solved thanks to sdmitch.

Ruby can be found here: http://forums.sketchucation.com/viewtopic.php?p=353348#p353348

[mitcorb]

I tried to construct a section of vine twining around itself using Tube Along Path, after constructing as you did, a welded series of spiraling segments. It is on a different computer than the one I am using. A method I used was setting up standoff segments "perpendicular" to the inner objects representing the radius of the vine, and connecting segments. Perhaps Follow Me and Keep? As far as helix around a helix, it hurt my head too much.

[Rich O Brien]

Use shapebender three times with your helix rotating between transformations. So in effect your bending occurs all on red axis but transforms globally.

Or Radial bending with FredoScale. Both these methods aren't absolute though since you assume certain bends.

Or download MOI or Rhino trial and do this there.

Another option is Tgi3D Warper tool locked in Parralell

[TIG]

Try ExtrudeEdgesByFace ?
You need to Weld the pseudo-helical path into a single curve [if it's not already one].
Then draw the circular face [or any shape for that matter***], flat on the ground [face orientation up/down is not important, ***if the shape is non-symmetrical it's green/Y-axis becomes the blue/Z-axis as it first starts to extrude].
Because you want the extrusion to be 'centered' you should also add a cpoint [guide] at the face's center.
Now select the face, the cpoint and the path-curve... and run the tool...

Spiral wire/pipe... done...

[solo]

I need something like this, the spiral needs to follow this crazy shape, then afterwards I need to use follow me to take the helix path from line to mesh.

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[TIG]

Can you post a simple SKP with the 'path' and suggested cross section circle...

[solo]

sure.

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helix to path.skp

[TIG]

You posted your image after I posted...
You want to 'mutate' the helix along the path, then use FollowMe ???
Here's the pre-distorted path EEbyFace... any

[TIG]

I think I understand what you now want...
The helix itself to be twisted along the distorted-path...
Then you do the FollowMe
Watch this space...
Think it CAN be done with ShapeBender...

[solo]

@unknownuser said:

'randomly mutate'

Not sure what this means in SU terms, sounds like a Sci Fi term.

I guess the best way to describe what I need is telephone cord.

[boofredlay]

@tig said:

Watch this space...

He's working!!!!!!
This will be a cool plugin for sure if it happens.

[TIG]

IF
that's IF! - not IF?

[TIG]

Here's a way of using ShapeBender with appropriately oriented/sized 'bits'; followed by Weld and then EEbyFace...

[pilou]

Allo ?

[sdmitch]

Something like this?

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[Rich O Brien]

You nailed it. Is it a plugin?

[solo]

@sdmitch said:

Something like this?

Exactly like that!

[sdmitch]

Yes it is a plugin. It is a little rough around sharp corners and may take a little trial and error to get the input parameters just right. Pre-select the centerline then run plugin. You are prompted for the radius of the helix, and the linear and angular increments.

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Create a helix along pre-selected path

[solo]

Excellent.

Helix around bent helix:

Most appreciated mate.

[mitcorb]

Congratulations, sdmitch, and thank you.