[req] follow me helix

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.

helix to path.png

TIG

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

solo

sure.

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?

Helix Maker.jpg

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.

Create a helix along pre-selected path